The Pony Guard (Season 2)

by MXCDarkHorse2020

Chapters

Episode 3: Lesson Zero
Episode 4: Never Roar Again
Episode 5: Luna Eclipsed
Episode 6: Sisterhooves Social
Episode 8: Too Many Memories
Episode 9: The Cutie Pox
Episode 10: The Trouble with Galoagos
Episode 11: May the Best Pet Win!
Episode 12: The Mysterious Mare Do Well
Episode 13: Janja's New Crew
Episode 14: Sweet and Elite
Episode 15: Secret of Excess
Episode 16: Family Apperication Day
Episode 17: Baboons!
Episode 18: Baby Cakes
Episode 19: A Hearth's Warming Eve
Episode 20: Beware of Zimwi
Episode 21: Lions of the Outlands
Episode 22: The Last Roundup
Episode 24: The Lost Gorillas
Episode 25: Read It and Weep
Episode 26: Hearts and Hooves Day
Episode 27: A Friend in Deed
Episode 28: The Trail to Udugu
Episode 29: Putting Your Hoof Down
Episode 30: It's About Time
Episode 31: Dragon Quest
Episode 32: Hurricane Fluttershy
Episode 33: Ono's Idol
Episode 34: Ponyville Confidental
Episode 35: Beshte and the Hippo Lanes
Episode 36: Ono the Tickbird
Episode 37: MMMystery on the Friendship Express
Episode 38: Be Prepared
Episode 40: Canterlot Wedding Part Two
Episode 1: Return of Harmony Part One
Episode 2: Return of Harmony Part Two
Episode 7: The Imaginary Okapi
Episode 23: The Super Speedy Squeezy Cider 6000
Episode 39: Canterlot Wedding Part One

Episode 3: Lesson Zero

Episode 3:

Lesson Zero

On the sunrise of a bright and sunny day in Ponyville, Twilight is already up bright and early with her eyes and ears perked up as the sun rises ready with her latest do-to-list.

“Quill.” She asked her number one assistant.

“Check.” Spike replied as the unicorn levitated a purple-feathered quill for her to place on her desk with the other two matching quills while repeating the process with what she makes sure she has and that includes extra supplies.

“Parchment.”

“Check.”

“Extra ink.”

“Check.”

“Extra extra ink.”

“Check.”

“Is that everything on the checklist?”

“Yep.” He replied which left Twilight pleased as she walks by from behind.

“Great. Now that we've completed the checklist of things we need to create a checklist, we can make my checklist of the things I have to get done by the end of the day. Ready?

“Ready!”

“Item one: create checklist of the things I have to accomplish by the end of the day.” She began as Spike slouched with an exhausted sigh as he sees he has a lot of writing to do today.

A little later when the bright blue sky was shining and every pony and Pride Lander was happily walking through town Twilight took a moment to turn to her faithful assistant on what’s next on their agenda.

“How are we doing, Spike?” She asked as he looked at the checklist.

“Let's see... We've already dropped off your cape at the cleaners, returned the blackboard you borrowed from Cheerilee, ordered new parchment and quills from the stationery shop...”

“Hmm... Seems like we just placed an order for those a few days ago.” Twilight expressed surprise hearing that last part.

“Can't imagine why we go through so many of them.” Spike replied with a knowing sly smile as he looks back at the extra, extra, long list for the day.

“Sounds like we're ahead of schedule.” Twilight felt pleased to hear that. “What's next?”

“Cupcakes!”

Which means… a trip to Sugarcube Corner to where they met up with Kion and Ono who were also dropping on by to get cupcakes too.

“Hey Twilight! Spike!” Kion greeted. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going great Kion!” Twilight happily returned. “Everything so far is going exactly as planned.”

“Oh, really.” Ono asked seeing the unicorn’s eager smile. “How so?”

“Oh, nothing other than getting ahead of my to-do-list for the today.” She cheerfully replied while pointing to her long checklist.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped upon seeing how look the scroll is as Kion looks equally surprised at the sight as well.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“I know.” Spike replied to them. “She is that busy of a mare.”

“Well, I hope that won’t keep you busy from our picnic later today.” Kion jokingly said to his best friend.

“Of course not.” Twilight dismissed it as she stated it won’t be a problem. “Because it’s on the schedule.” She said as she presented said item on her list.

“Of course it is.” Ono stiffed a chuckle as Twilight just shook her head still unfazed not about to let a little friendly jab ruin this day just as Mrs.Cake brings the two pairs two boxes of cupcakes.

“Whoa...” Spike marveled at the sight of them as Twilight inspects finding something not right about them.

“What’s wrong?” Kion asked.

“Uh, I only ordered twelve.” Twilight noted to Mrs. Cake who was currently moving back towards the kitchen with two boxes on her head in tow.

“Oh, I know, dear, but I had an extra. So I thought I'd make it a baker's dozen.”

Spike was then pulled aside by Twilight with her magic. "Oh, that was very thoughtful of you. It's just some of the icing from the extra cupcake is getting all over the one next to it. See?" She pointed to said treat with her hoof.

“Ohh... sure...” Mrs. Cake just went along with it for her sake as Ono flew over to examine them.

“Uh…not really…” Ono tried to explain to the unicorn as she refused to accept it.

“Yes really, you’ve got a keen eye.” Twilight pointed out while holding up the extra cupcake. “See the extra frosting.”

“Yes.” He replied with a sigh as he used one of his wings to wipe away the very small bit of icing. “Got it.” He then tasted the frosting off of his wing. “And I can assure you from the Keenest of Sight that they all taste good in case you are worried they might be poisoned.”

“I know.” Twilight acknowledged that she trusts Mrs. Cake with that. “It's just that I'm planning on sharing these at a picnic later and I don't want anypony to feel like somepony else is getting more icing.”

“Help me.” Ono pleadingly whispered to Kion.

Just as Twilight moved to make adjustments to the icing, Kion stepped forward before Ono could fly over and use his keen sight to make the “necessary” adjustments to place a calming paw on her shoulder.

“Easy Twilight. They’re all great the way they are. One small ounce of extra frosting isn’t going to make a difference.” Kion assured her.

“You’re right.” Twilight then relented as she let it slide and placed aside the utensil she was going to use. “One small thing isn’t going to ruin this day.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Spike agreed as he eyed the extra cupcake to which Twilight handed it to him before closing the box.

“Indeed Spike.” She agreed too before motioning him to come along. “Come on. Still got a lot to accomplish.”

“Okay.” Spike said with a mouthful of cupcake as he carried her checklist.

“See you both at the picnic!” She called out as she left.

“See you there, Twilight.” Kion called back as they take their box of cupcakes from the counter.

“Look forward to it.” Ono also said in her direction before turning to the lion with as he examined the cupcakes.

“Please, tell me that’s not getting into your head now?” Kion asked of him about to look dismayed if that's the case.

“No.” He denied as Kion closed the box. “Maybe. Yes.”

“They’re all okay.” Kion insisted with his paw still on the box cover. “Even if one cupcake has an extra bit of frosting.”

“Yeah, sorry.” Ono sheepishly apologized. “Sometimes that unicorn is just a little hard to please at times unless it’s absolutely perfect.”

“Maybe so, but she still means well.” Kion acknowledged. “Even so I doubt she would let one small thing get to her.”

“True. But honestly doubtful because last thing we need is Twilight going off the deep end over it like she nearly did when the parasprites nearly infested Ponyville.” Ono replied as he still couldn’t help but think something bad is going to happen.

“Well, I’m sure she won’t.” Kion confidently replied as Scar secretly observed the image from his magic as hid for cover from the bushes across the street.

“We’ll see about that.” Scar quietly remarked certain that otherwise before sneaking away unnoticed by anybody and anypony as he continues monitoring Twilight and Spike as they press forward with their list together.

“Looks like that's everything!” Spike said as he jumped off of Twilight’s back once they got back.

“Almost everything.” Twilight pointed out there’s one more thing left as Spike read the last item of business.

"Triple-check checklist to make sure we didn't miss anything when we double checked the checklist!" Uh... check!” Spike then checked it off as he dropped the quill and parchment paper as his writing claw got sore from all of that writing. “Ugh... I've been holding that quill so long, I've got a claw cramp! Well, good thing we don't have anything to report to Princess Celestia this week... I don't think I could write another word!”

Hearing this sparked alarm in her head just as she was admiring the beauty of Mrs. Cake’s work.

“We haven't sent a letter to Princess Celestia this week?!”

“Why? Is that bad?” Spike asked as he bandaged his sore claw.

“Bad? BAD? Of course it's bad!” She stated. “I'm supposed to send Princess Celestia a letter every week, telling her about a lesson I've learned about friendship! Not every other week, not every ten days, every... single... week!” She added with a slight tap of her hoof on his chest for emphasis.

“Huh?” Spike was lost as Twilight started picked up books with her magic desperately searching for something she needs.

“Ohh... Where's my calendar, where's my calendar?!” She frantically asked as she looked all around her desk.

“Where it.. always is?” Spike pointed out as he pulled it out from its usual placement as Twilight levitates it over to her stand.

“When did we send the last one?”

“Last...Tuesday?”

“And today is...”

“Tuesday?” He honestly answered which still didn’t do his friend any good as she quickly ran upstairs to the upstairs window to look at the time flying sun on the horizon.

“Argh! Nononononononono! If I don't send her a letter by sundown, I'll be... tardy!”

“What's that now?” He asked as he pulled aside the reddish-pink background when she stated tardy.

“Tar-dy, Spike! Late, I'll be late!” She spit out the definition as she fell onto her bed while spiraling slightly while wrapping herself under her bed sheets. “Oh, how could I let this happen? I'm usually so organized. I've never been late with an assignment.”

“Oh, please!” Spike exclaimed as he pulled the covers off of her and dropped down to the first floor. “You're the most studious student ever! I'm sure the Princess will forgive you if you miss one little deadline.”

“I'm afraid to take that chance, Spike.” Twilight refused. “This is the ruler of all of Equestria we're talking about. The pony who holds my fate in her hooves! What if she doesn't forgive me?”

“Yeah... I don't think she—“ Spike tried to say otherwise as she continued speaking off of her mind as she teleported right in front of him.

“What if instead she starts thinking I'm not taking my studies on friendship seriously?”

“Why would she—“

“What if she makes me come back to Canterlot and puts me back in school and makes me prove I've been taking them seriously by giving me a test?! What if I don't pass?!” She further rambled as she paced around the room while Spike just shakes his head.

“Well, why wouldn't you pass—“

“She's my teacher. Do you know what teachers do to students who don't pass? “ She asked as Spike didn’t have an answer as he face-palmed. “They send them back a grade! But she won't just send me back a grade. She'll send me back to... magic kindergarten.”

Twilight sat and shuddered at the memory of all of the fillies laughing at her for her intelligence just as Spike literally pulls up the shades containing the flashback up and away.

“Twilight? Twilight!” He called and nudged her to get her to snap out of it.

“Huh?”

“That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard! You're not going to be sent back to magic kindergarten.” Spike insisted that’s crazy talk and she has nothing to worry about.

“You're right. I have no reason to worry.” She then calmed down to which Spike smiles seeing that she is coming to her senses at least until she then said… “Because I'm going to solve a friend's problem and get that letter to Princess Celestia before sundown!” Spike groaned.

“So... got any problems, troubles, conundrums, or any other sort of issues, major or minor, that I as a good friend could help you solve?” Twilight offered while sporting an eager smile.

“Huh. Hmm. Huunh. Huh...” Spike tried to think of something but came up empty-clawed. “I got nothin'.”

Twilight’s ears and smile dropped for the moment before setting out to resolve it herself someway somehow.

“Then it looks like I'm going to have to find somepony who does.” She vowed as she left the library.

“This won't end well.” Spike murmured to himself as he placed a claw on his forehead.

“You’re right about that.” Scar secretly agreed as he secretly watches from one of the tree branches as he sees Twilight leaving before leaping off of the tree and onto the ground. “Because I have a plan for that.”

As the day progresses late into the morning, Twilight happily trots around while confident she’ll prevail as always while Scar follows her by leaping from roof top to roof top.

“You've got this, Twilight. You still have plenty of time to get that letter to Princess Celestia! Has to be somepony who needs the help of a good friend!”

And as luck would have it she heard a familiar scream.

“Rarity!”

Twilight quickly ran over to Carousel Boutique with Scar quickly teleporting to the tree in front of the shop just as the unicorn kicked open the door.

“Don't worry, Rarity! I'm here!” Twilight announced her presence as she came across the unicorn sobbing with Ono by her side.

“Why me-e-e-e-e-ee…WHYYYY?! Why? Why-y?! And of all the worst things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!”

“What's happened? Are you alright?” Twilight asked as she eagerly pounced on the potential opportunity.

“I've lost my diamond-encrusted purple ribbon! I have searched high, and I have searched low. Low and high! High and low! But I can't find it anywhere! Anywhe-e-e-e-ere! How can I possibly finish my latest creation if I can't find it?!” She explained as she pulled up a special couch to act dramatically on while crying.

“Oh, brother.” Ono just grumbled with a resigned expression as he flies over to and does a quick scan of the room just as Twilight’s eyes glimmered as she vowed to help her.

“Never fear, Rarity. As your friend I'll do my best to help you fi—“

“Never mind found it.” Ono reported as he pointed to the missing item in plain sight.

“Oh, there it is. Isn't it always just the last place you look?” She said as she picked it up with her magic.

“So... you just lost your ribbon?” Twilight asked now feeling taken aback by that over reaction.

“Mm-hm!” She nodded as she starting snipping away.

“But now you've found it?”

“Yuh-huh.”

“And nothing else is bothering you? Nothing that I, as a good friend, could help you with?” She prodded trying to peg for an actual problem lingering around while sporting open her right eye to which Ono picked up a vibe wondering why she is so interested in trying to solve a major problem.

“Hmm... there is one thing.” She responded as she thought off the top of her head.

“Yes?” She eagerly asked as she got face to face with the unicorn as she turns to address her.

“I think I left my measuring tape under the fabric over there. Could you get that for me?”

Twilight just sighed as she levitates the requested item.

“Measuring tape? Sure.” She just said feeling rather disappointed that was all for essentially nothing to which Rarity took notice of along with Ono.

“Twilight? Is there something bother—“ She asked before seeing she disappeared. “Twilight?”

“She’s already gone!” Ono explained while gesturing to the door. “And I got a pretty bad feeling there is something bothering her.” He then said feeling his earlier concerns were correct as she was hoping for a really big problem to actually solve.

Twilight then pressed forward with Scar secretly following her unnoticed.

“No need to panic. Rarity is just one pony. I'm sure one of my other friends will need me.” She said to herself as she heard and witnessed Rainbow Dash who is wearing safety goggles beat the heck out of the barn ahead with Applejack, Fuli, and Bunga watching from a safe distance just as a loose board lands right in front of her with her super speed.

“What in the world...?” She wondered in surprise at the sight. “Rainbow must be angry with Applejack!” She then deduced of what she think is going on. “She must hate her guts! How wonderful!”

She then ran over and immediately stopped Rainbow by gaining a magical hold on her tail.

“Rainbow Dash! Stop! Listen, Rainbow. I know you're upset with Applejack, but don't worry. Whatever it is that has come between you two, I'm sure that I, as a good friend, can help you resolve your problems.“ She assured as she let go her grip on the blue peagsus.

“Uh, what are you talking about?” Rainbow asked while confused.

“Oh, Rainbow Dash, you don't have to hide your feelings from me!” She continued as she got into her face with her front hooves on her cheeks. “I can tell you two must've had a terrible fight.”

“Hey what’s going on? What’s happening to all of the fun smashing and trashing?” Bunga called out from the nearby trench.

“Bunga?” Twilight was surprised to hear his voice as she ran over to the trench where the others are. “Fuli, Applejack, What’s going on?”

“Oh hey, Twilight!” He greeted with a wave. “We were just watching Rainbow Dash destroy the old barn.”

“But why?”

“Because she asked me to. Right, Applejack?” Rainbow replied while turning to the farm pony.

“Yes, ma’am. I wanted to put up a new barn, but this one's gotta come down first.” Applejack confirmed.

“And we’re here to help and watch.” Fuli added.

“But why, Fuli?” Twilight asked trying to understand what she is seeing. “You hate getting dirty and you usually don’t spend time with Bunga. No offense.” She quickly added to the honey badger’s direction.

“None taken.”

“Normally, that’s true.” She replied still smiling why turning to Bunga. “But we found something in common together. And helping wreck this old farm is one of them as well as watching them crumble.”

“You said it!” Bunga agreed. “So un-Bunga-veilable!”

“Yes, ma'am.” Applejack chuckled before turning to the Pegasus readjusting her safety glasses. “Now get back to it, R.D.”

“You got it, boss!”

She immediately flew up high in the sky to finish the job.

“I'd take cover if I were you.” The farm pony warned her as she, Fuli, and Bunga take cover with Twilight quickly following suit upon seeing what Rainbow is about to do.

With one mighty yell she charges down full throttle as she destroys the barn into a million pieces while leaving behind a rainbow mushroom cloud in her wake while covering the four in rubble from the impact of the explosion leaving them all covered in dirt. Well expect for Scar who effortlessly managed to put up a green force field with one paw while watching from an unnoticeable distance.

“Yeah, man!” Bunga cheered as he and Applejack rush over to prepare for the next part of their job with Twilight and Fuli both emerging from the dirt and rubble with the former’s mane now a little messy from the impact as she just sighs and walks off seeing that everything is fine since for once Applejack and Rainbow Dash are getting along.

“You okay, Twilight?” Fuli asked as she took note of her disappointment.

“Yes, everything’s fine.” She responded as she still walked off not even making eye contact with her to which puzzled the cheetah upon seeing this.

“I better go talk to Kion about this.” She said to herself before running off to do so as Scar continues his monitoring of the troubled unicorn.

At that point it is now early afternoon with Twilight’s mane still messy as she is started to get a little unhinged from worry as she is running out of time as she makes her way over to Fluttershy’s cottage.

“I can't believe I wasted all that time. I should have just come here first. Fluttershy always has some fear she's trying to get over. As a good friend, I'll be able to help her.”

By the time she got there and arrived at her backyard she saw Fluttershy facing a bear that is roaring right in her face to which she quickly flies underneath before quickly tackling him to the ground while pulling on his back leg as the bear growled in pain.

“Fluttershy?” Twilight questioned in surprise seeing this as the bear cried in pain while dropping her jaws in shock that she is this brave fighting a bear and even twisting his neck.

“I know it’s impressive isn’t it.” Beshte replied to the unicorn as he came outside from the Pegasus's home. “Who would have known that a pony like her can give a very mean message that actually works.”

He then walked over to the two just as Fluttershy flew down to the bear’s eye level as he was now feeling completely relaxed.

“How can this be happening?” Twilight wondered out loud now very baffled with everything that's happening around her. “Of all the days she had to stop being such a scaredy-pony, she had to pick today?! What am I going to do?!” She then walked off seeing that she isn’t getting anything out of this.

“You really should have come to me sooner. You were carrying so much tension in that shoulder.” Fluttershy said to the bear who growls as he feels so much better from that massage.

“You never disappoint when it comes to animals.” Beshte complimented as the peagsus slightly blushed. “I’m glad you managed to catch that Twilight…” He added as he turned back only to see the unicorn already left. “Twilight? Where did you go?” He wondered as he looked around while Fluttershy looks confused.

“Twilight? Where?”

“She was here a second ago.” He honestly replied while wondering why she had to leave in a sudden.

“No worries, we can talk to her and explain all about it to her at our picnic later today.” Fluttershy didn’t make too much of a big deal over it.

“You’re right.” Beshte then let it slide feeling certain it wasn’t something major she had to see them for.

Although, little do they realize of how wrong they truly are as the unicorn retreats to a bench in the park as Scar follows her.

“Well, that was certainly impressive.” Scar commented to himself with what he saw back at the cottage. “And how interesting of how everything is going so perfect for today. Perfectly for me.” He said as he teleports away while pleased that everyone’s perfect day is working against Twilight when she needed some trouble brewing the most as she gets all curled up on the bench while patting her messy tail and trying to keep herself together.

“It's fine. It'll all be fine. The day isn't over yet. But it will be over soon!” She still pressed to assure herself until she looked up at the sun as it starts to get into the middle of the afternoon before groaning in frustration while crying tears into the nearby puddle of water. “It'll be all over! My time in Ponyville! My advanced studies! No no. You're a good student. You can do this. “

“Ooh! But what if I can't?” Twilight’s voice spoke to her on its own accord.

“You can! You just have to keep it together. Keep. It. Together!” Twilight shouted back at her despairing reflection while sporting a maniacal smile.

Spike with the box of cupcakes for the picnic in tow arrived just in time to witness this little episode.

“Are you talking to... yourself?” Spike asked in concern before waving a claw in her face. “Twilight?”

Twilight didn’t respond as she saw a trio of fillies playing jump rope nearby laughing at her along with Scar himself evilly smirking at her from behind to which sparked surprise in Twilight’s eyes until Spike appeared over the distressed unicorn.

“Snap out of it!” He shouted at her which caused her to shake her head with her eyes closed for the moment.

“Huh?” She questioned just as what she saw quickly disappeared in a flash.

“Are you okay?” Spike asked with his tone softened up as they turned to the direction of the laughing fillies having fun together while playing jump-rope which is not directed at anybody.

“Twilight, I'm really worried.” Spike then calmly said to her just as Twilight was trying to make sure she wasn’t seeing things while rubbing her eyes. “I mean this letter thing is really getting to you. Here.” He then presented her the box of cupcakes. “You've been so anxious all day that you completely forgot about the picnic. Why don't you just relax and go hang out with—“

“The picnic! I should go see my friends!” Twilight immediately replied with a crazed smile as she magically takes control of the box of treats before running off with a new shine of hope she can turn to.

“I'm glad you've come to your senses.” Spike then said pleased before seeing that the unicorn isn’t feeling any better before running back over to the library just in case his thoughts are true to form.

As Spike left, the fillies then stopped jumping rope as the trio’s innocent smiles turn into mean and devious smiles as they transform back into Scar as he cancels his spell that had him appear and talking to her from the reflection and posing as the kids laughing at her just as the reflection turned into Scar’s himself evilly smirking.

“So am I.” Scar said with a satisfied tone of voice as slowly and stealthily makes his way over to where the Guard is having the picnic together.

As Applejack placed down the red and white checkered table cloth, Rainbow Dash put on sunglasses and sunscreen, as Pinkie brings forward her basket and small table cloth which revealed balloons from inside which air lifted the basket away. To which Bunga laughed at the sight just as Pinkie smiled as she was laughing inside her mind while Beshte silently giggled finding it funny much to Fluttershy’s confusion.

“Please tell me I did not forget the plates.” Rarity worried to herself as she searched through her picnic basket. ”I did. I totally forgot them. Of all the worst things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!” She then stated as she dramatically cried onto her red velvet fainting couch that she had just pulled out. “Why, why, why... Uh...” She then sees everyone is eyeing her for her outburst. “What? You didn't expect me to lay on the grass, did you?” She then said in slight defense.

“Seriously?” Kyoga remarked while shaking her head.

“Why yes really.” She continued while showing her white fur coat to the lioness. “I just can’t bear to get my fur coat dirty. I mean I just had it cleaned up.”

“If I hadn’t seen that compared to Pinkie just bringing a basket that ends up flying away. I probably deem you the craziest pony I have met.” Kyoga then said with a deadpan expression as she points to the plates she in fact already did bring over.

“Oh, lighten up.” Applejack insisted as she got the cloth setting all fixed up. “That may be there so but she’s still completely fine in the head just like all of us here.”

Just then, Kion, Fuli, and Ono all arrive on the scene.

“Girls!” Kion called out to everyone as they run over to them.

“What’s up Kion?” Bunga happily returned while ignoring the worried look on her friend’s faces.

“What’s going on?” Beshte asked as he saw that the others are looking concerned.

“Have any of you seen Twilight?” Fuli asked.

“Not since this morning.” Rarity honestly replied. “Why do you ask, darling?”

“Well from what she and Ono have been just telling me is that Twilight was looking very troubled throughout today.” Kion answered.

“Trouble what kind of trouble?” Fluttershy asked just as the mare herself arrived with the cupcakes in tow appearing over Rainbow’s face as she was resting on her back with another creepy smile as she looks cracked in the head from stress to which surprised everyone upon seeing.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion quietly remarked upon seeing her like this.

“This doesn’t look good.” Fuli also noted as she whispered to Kion.

“You’re right about that.” He whispered back as Applejack popped the question to Twilight.

“You alright, hun?”

“No! I am not alright.” She shouted back to which startled the group. “It's just terrible.”

“Yes?” Everyone all questioned together.

“Simply awful.” She added.

“Yes?!” They all questioned as they leaned in to hear more.

“It's the most horrific trouble I've ever been in and I really really really need your help!”

“YES?!”

“My letter to Princess Celestia is almost overdue, and I haven't learned anything about friendship!”

The girls minus Kyoga all release relieved sighs upon hearing this while Kyoga and everyone else were all lost for words as they were unsure of how to respond to that.

“Oh, thank goodness. I thought something really awful had happened.” Fluttershy commented now relaxed as Twilight didn’t take that response very well as she gave a shocked gasp in response to them seemingly blowing her concerns to the sky as she randomly teleported to the others from Rainbow as her shades flew away as a result, to Rarity as she ended up spitting her tea, to Applejack with hooves on her arms.

“Something awful has happened! If I don't turn in the letter on time, I'll be tardy! TARDY!”

The girls minus Fuli and Kyoga all still giggle as Twilight’s anger increased as her cheeks turned red to match as this insensitive response was really steaming her.

“No offense, sugarcube, but it looks like somepony's gettin' themselves all worked up over nothin'.” Applejack replied as she pushed the unicorn’s hooves away.

“This is not nothing.” She insisted it’s serious business. “This is everything. I need you guys to help me find somepony with a problem I can fix before sundown! My whole life depends on it!” She then screamed in Pinkie’s face.

“Oh, Twilight, you're such a crack-up!” Pinkie responded as she rolled onto her back while laughing.

“Come on now. Have a seat and stop sweatin' the small stuff.” Applejack insisted just as the unicorn just angrily groans in frustration and again before teleporting away and leaving the scene.

“Wow. I've never seen Twilight so upset before.” Fluttershy commented to Applejack.

“Oh, what a drama queen.” Rarity agreed as she laid on her couch. “Mm. Relatively speaking...” She quickly added as they found it hypocritical and ironic coming from her.

“Says the pony on a couch to faint on every time she forgets where her measuring tape is.” Kyoga deadpan remarked before focusing back on the main subject. “And as over-reacting she may have been you all did little to help her with what you all said to her just now.” She then scolded.

“What did we do?!” Rainbow questioned not comprehending of how insensitive she was back there.

“Well let’s see…” She then said as she drew out digits on her claws as she sat down. “…Twilight explained to you all of her problem…She is incredibly stressed and losing her mind over it…you all laughed and dismissed her concerns…she angrily teleports away in a huff…you tell me.”

“But she was getting worked up over nothing. Right?” Applejack insisted her stance as she turns to the Lion Guard for backup who all silently don’t feel the same way.

“Maybe so.” Fuli didn’t even deny that. “But it didn’t change of how she was practically begging for help and was really starting to panic back there. I mean did you not notice the disheveled mane and the crazed look and creepy smile on her face?”

“Uh…” Was all the girls could say as they all overlooked it in favor of laughing at her to which Fuli could only stare at them in disappointment as Kion speaks up.

“We’ll deal with them later.” He said to her before turning to the rest of the Guard of what must be done. “We gotta go find her before she breaks a hoof out there because friends are always there for her when they need her.”

“Absolutely.

"So True."

“Affirmative.”

“You said it.”

The other Guard members agreed as they all set out to find her who is currently back at her library on the verge of completely losing it now as the sun starts to set with the early evening peaking.

“Clock is ticking, Twilight. Clock. Is. Ticking.” She said to herself with still sporting crazed smiles throughout the scene. “Keep it together. If I can't find a friendship problem... I'll make a friendship problem!” She then resolved as she pulled something out from her toy chest while stroking her messy mane as Scar smirks from watching the scene from the window undetected.

Once she has what she needs she heads back on over to the park while giggling rather insanely with another creepy smile as she pops her head out from a bush with a bird’s nest popping up from the branch the bird was on as she peeks towards the Cutie Mark Crusaders who are all playing ball together with the kids who are fans of the Guard.

Coincidentally, the Lion Guard were swinging by to see if she came across here.

“Hey, girls!” Kion greeted the trio.

“Hey, Kion!” Apple Bloom happily returned as she nuzzled the young lion cub.

“Hello, again Sweetie Belle.” Ono greeted the little unicorn.

“Hello, again Ono.” Sweetie returned as Scootaloo ran up to the cheetah.

“Fuli!”

“Scootaloo!”

The two shared a fist bump together as the filly really admires her since like Rainbow Dash she too has super speed and they are best buds.

“Hi there!” Beshte greeted their fan club.

“Hi, Beshte!” Mtoto happily greeted. “What’s going on?”

“Not much.” He replied. “We were just all looking for Twilight.”

“Why?” The little ostrich friend asked.

“Is something wrong?” The little zebra friend also wondered as they worry what’s if something happened to her just as the ball expanded until it popped revealing Twilight herself with a rather insane looking appearance which took everyone by surprise seeing her like this as she is really off her rocker.

“Hi, girls!” She greeted as her left ear twitched.

“Uh oh.” Kion said to himself along with the others.

“This isn’t good.” Fuli noted upon seeing the increased insanity going through their unicorn friend's mind.

“Oh, hi, Twilight.” Apple Bloom greeted with a frightened smile. “How's it go—“

“Gr-eat. Just great.” She answered mid-sentence as she approached them to which they all kept their safe distance from her as her eye still twitched with a drop of sweat falling from her forehead. “You eight all look like you're doing great too! Looks like eight good friends who obviously don't need the help of another good friend.”

Fuli quickly intercepted her as she quickly got in front of her to stop her from further intimidating them.

“Easy Twilight…” Fuli urged her to stop with his paws on her shoulders as she looked at her in the heavily bagged eyes as her ears twitched again. “…You’re scaring them.”

“Don’t worry. I’m not going to hurt them.” She replied as she levitated the cheetah aside and presented the kids a ragged doll. “This is Smarty Pants. She was mine when I was your age, and now I want to give her to you!”

The kids all looked at the doll as they all had confused expressions mixed with slight fear of the insane unicorn and finding the doll a little unappealing to them.

“Uhh... she's... great.”

“Yeah. Great.”

“I really... like her... mane.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all replied rather nervously.

“She even comes with her own notebook and quill, for when you want to pretend she's doing her homework!” She continued as she presented them said quill and notebook while twitching her head to the side.

“That's... um... great.”

“Yeah... great.”

“I really like her... mane?”

Mtoto, Gumba, and Shaku all forcibly complimented.

“I just hope the fact that there are three of you and only one of her doesn't become a problem! I'd hate to cause a rift between such good friends.” She then said while smiling manically aside as Scootaloo gestures to the kids with a hoof waving around her head to indicate that she is bonkers with Gumba and Shakku snickering as Ono quickly glared at them to knock it off and get them to see that this isn’t funny.

“So, who wants to play with her first?” She asked and pressed of them as she levitated the doll over to them.

“Uh... You should play with her first, Sweetie Belle.” Apple Bloom said to the little unicorn before fleeing not wanting to play with her yet unable to say no to Twilight. “Y'know, 'cause you like her mane so much.”

“Nonononononono. I think Scootaloo should get to play with her first.” She insisted to the Pegasus as she too fled.

“I'd love to, but, um, you take her, Kwato.” Scootaloo replied while attempting to shove her towards it.

“Um, no thanks.” She politely declined before turning the ostrich. “Kambuni should. She would love playing with dolls.”

“Not this doll.” She said to the contrary as she shoved the boys as the girls tried to shoved one of them into playing with it just to appease Twilight.

“Hey come on, don’t drag me into this.” Gumba protested. “I don’t want it!”

“Well neither do I!” Shauku exclaimed as Mtoto decided it was best to just back away from this.

“Applejack says it's important to share.” Apple Bloom argued as Kion moved in front of Twilight who is still in her mid-crazed panic upon seeing that her initial plan is failing.

“Twilight, please, stop!” He urged her to get a grip before she’ll do something she’ll regret. “I know you are stressing over this letter of yours but this isn’t the answer for it.”

“Yeah, and if matters so much to you we’ll make the problem ourselves.” Bunga happily offered as he went over to jump in the struggle until Beshte stopped him with his voice.

“Or we could just explain to the princess that you just need a little more time. I’m sure she’ll understand that.” Beshte also advised the unicorn as it fell on deaf ears as her insane and evil looking grin reappeared.

“Oh, that wouldn’t be a problem because I already know how to get this to work.” She said as she thought of sinister idea in her head as she addressed the fighting and resisting group of children trying to avoid playing with it. “Ooh, you're going to like Smarty Pants. And you're going to like her more than anything.”

She then casted a spell on it with hearts popping out of her horn and onto the doll to which got the kid’s attention as they all looked at the doll with a completely different approach towards it.

“I want it.” Scootaloo said with matching hearts in her eyes.

“I need it.” Apple Bloom said with the same eyes.

“I really like her mane!” Sweetie Belle also said with the same eyes as the three all got into a fist fight together with the Pride Landers expect for Mtoto who covered his eyes with his ears as they all fight for the doll together.

“Hevi Kabisa! What did you do Twilight?!” Kion asked in shock at the fact she actually used her magic to start up a fight.

“The 'want it, need it' spell. Works every time.” She said very pleased with herself while ignoring the shocked reactions from her friends. “Okay, okay, let's break it up. I think we can all see that there is an important lesson to be learned here about…” She then said to the kids trying to peace-maker now yet finds herself knocked aside by the tough crowd. “C'mon, girls, we're all friends here, right? Don't you think you ought to share?” She urged them to stop and even jumped into the forming dust cloud to break it up to no avail as she thrown away just in front of Big Macintosh.

“So much for a quick problem and fix.” Fuli snarked under her breath as Twilight turned to the nearby red stallion for assistance.

“Big Macintosh! Thank goodness! You've gotta help me get that doll away from those girls!”

“Eeyup.” He calmly replied as he walked over and just pulled it away from them as the eight continue to argue and fight each other.

“Oh, thank you so much.” Twilight thankfully expressed her relief.

“Okay, little ones. Let’s break it up.” Bunga said as he stepped forward to do so as Twilight tried to take back her doll.

“Now if you could just give her to me?”

“Nnnope.” He replied as hearts appeared in his eyes as he too was drawn into the spell as he refused to let go of it and ran off.

“Oh no!” She expressed as she realized that her little scheme is going terribly wrong as the kids all give the stallion a chase while trampling Bunga.

“Ow! Ooo! Ouch!”

“Give her back!“

“Don't touch it!”

“It's mine!”

“I want it!”

“I found it first!”

“No I did!”

“Why you little…”

The kids all screamed which caught the attention of the town mayor who was about to sit on her lounge chair.

“What's all the commotion about?” She asked.

“They're fighting over that doll!” A Pegasus with peach shade of orange fur and pinkish-purple mane and tail answered as she too is drawn to the spell.

“That incredible, amazing doll!” A pony with a dark blue mane and pink mane exclaimed as she along with many ponies in Ponyville and Pride Landers nearby joining in on the fight for the doll as Twilight dives in to try to use her magic to get it away from everyone.

“Can't... get... a clear shot!” Twilight struggled with the massive crowd as others keep blocking her shot as the mayor obtains the doll with her teeth with Thurston quickly body-slamming her out of the way so he can obtain it.

“Not anymore!”

“Gimme!”

The two argued as the latter along with Big Macintosh pursue him after plowing through the dog-piled mob.

“Oh, what have I done?!” Twilight said to herself as the situation is really spiraling out of control.

“Well…” Kyoga began to bluntly answer until being cut off by the leader of the Lion Guard.

“Kyoga!” He sternly frowned against saying it. “Now is not the time for that."

Meanwhile back at the Mane Five’s picnic sighting as they all relax hoping the Lion Guard will return with Twilight so they can talk to her when they hear the commotion.

“Y'all hear that?” She asked as they all run right past them. “What in the name of all things oats 'n apples is goin' on here?!”

“Don't look at it!” Twilight quickly appeared and covered Rainbow’s eyes.

“Don't look at what?” Rarity asked.

“My Smarty Pants doll! I enchanted her and now everypony is fighting over her!” She explained to everyone.

“Why would you enchant your doll?” Fluttershy asked as Twilight explains her desperate motive as she laid on the ground while covering her head.

“Oh, I had to do something! I had nothing to report to Princess Celestia! I thought if I couldn't find a problem, I'd make a problem! The day is almost over!”

“Not almost!” Applejack pointed to the sun which is now setting as the nighttime sky starts to settle thus rendering Twilight’s actions in triggering the whole thing all for nothing to which she lowered her head down to the ground in shameful despair at her failure.

“Twilight Sparkle!” Princess Celestia’s voice called out as everyone all turned their heads up at the sight of the alicorn princess furiously glaring down at her student.

“Hapana!”

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“Whoa nelly.”

Kion and Ono both expressed along with the farm pony taking her hat off for the moment as everyone looks on with sudden shock at seeing the upset princess as she works her magic in undoing Twilight’s spell and once everyone all snapped out of it they all gathered and looked upon the doll they were all hypnotized into fighting over.

“Well this is embarrassing even for me.” Thurston awkwardly spoke as the mayor blushed in embarrassment while everyone walks away acting as casual as possible as they all try to pretend that scene never happened.

Big Macintosh after looking around to make sure nobody was around before securing the doll with his teeth before happily running off as he actually loved the doll.

At that moment, Princess Celestia after performing her magic then flew down in front of her student who still has her head lowered in shame as everyone all share worried looks in stunned silence as the alicorn sternly gazes upon her groveling pupil as they all have never seen her get this angry before not counting when Discord briefly returned.

“Meet me in the library.” She boldly ordered her before flying on over there.

Twilight stands up as she prepares to do so with no way around it.

“Goodbye, girls.” Twilight said in a depressed and defeated tone. “If you care to visit, I'll be in magic kindergarten, back in Canterlot. And as for you guys…” She then said to the Lion Guard as she struggled to keep herself from crying as voice waivered. “…I’m sorry for putting you all through that.”

Twilight then slowly walked over to the Golden Oaks Library where her punishment awaits her as Kion looks on feeling really bad for her right now.

“Twilight…” He could only whisper after her direction with his voice nearly starting to crack in sadness as well.

“Magic kindergarten?”

“Canterlot?”

Fluttershy and Rarity both questioned.

“We're never gonna see Twilight again!” Pinkie exclaimed as she face-hoofed in guilt.

“Uh, what are we gonna do, y'all?” Applejack asked everyone as she comforted Pinkie.

“Of all the worst things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!” She dramatically cried out as everyone looks at her with befuddled expressions. “What? I really mean it this time!” She said in her defense.

“Only one thing we can do!” Kion stated as he looked at the girls before running on towards the library. “We gotta go over there and convince her not to send her way. I’ll take full responsibility for all of this.”

“WHAT?!” The girls exclaimed at his noble gesture as they run up beside him as he sets out to do so.

“WHAT?!” The Lion Guard also shouted just as surprised.

“You don’t have to do that, Kion?” Applejack insisted otherwise.

“Yeah, we were the ones who drove her off the deep end. You and the others did try to do something about it.” Rainbow agreed and argued as Kion still focused solely in the library’s direction while ignoring Rainbow flying right beside him.

“Yeah, it’s not your fault!” Pinkie added.

“Maybe not, but she is my best friend and as leader, looking after her and stepping up when something goes wrong is also my responsibility.” Kion said without batting a glance at the others as they all see that Kion is not backing off from this even though this means risking punishment as well.

“Kion is right.” Kyoga vouched for them. “Even though I didn’t have anything to do with this, I’m sticking by her side no matter what.”

As they all approach the library, Kion smiles of how Kyoga is setting an example for the team as they all arrive at the library.

“Me too.” Rainbow agreed as she flew ahead towards the entrance in plain sight.

Inside the library where Twilight is meeting with the princess who is still groveling before her as she explains why she caused that mess in the first place while Spike watches in secret from the nearby corner while feeling to blame for this as well as he did not expect the princess to show up and give her a stern talking to for whatever she did back at the park.

“But...but... I'm supposed to send you a letter about friendship every week. I missed the deadline. I'm a bad student! I'm... tardy!” She still lowered her head ashamed of herself for both that and the park incident that her mentor had to clean up herself as she looked down at her sympathetically having calmed down by the time Twilight arrived.

“You are a wonderful student, Twilight. I don't have to get a letter every week to know that.” Celestia said to her what she needed to hear instead of letting her have it.

“Really?” She asked as she looked up in surprise at that statement just as her friends all burst inside the room.

“Wait!” Rainbow shouted with a raised hoof in protest.

“You can't punish her!” Pinkie cried out.

“It wasn't her fault!” Applejack added.

“I'm listening.” The princess said with listening ears.

“Please, your Highness. We all saw that Twilight was upset...” Fluttershy began as she approached her with lowered ears.

“…But we thought that the thing she was worrying about wasn't worth worrying about.” Rainbow added with lowered ears of regret as Pinkie rubbed her head on Twilight filled with remorse for blowing her off.

“So when she ran off all worked up, only the Lion Guard ran off and tried to check up on her.” Applejack added as Kion steps forward on behalf of everyone while standing by Twilight’s side as promised.

“As Twilight's good friends, we should have taken her feelings seriously and been there for her!” Rarity added.

“Please don't take her away from us just because we were too insensitive to help her.” Fluttershy pleaded.

“And if anyone should be punished it is me for failing to prevent all of this from happening.” Kion said as he bravely stepped forward to the princess. “I’ll accept whatever you see is fit.”

Princess Celestia takes a moment to process all of this before speaking her mind and approach to this.

“Looks like you all learned a pretty valuable lesson today.” Celestia replied with a warm smile as the girls all nodded together before turning to Kion who is standing in her pupil’s defense. “And while I commend you for stepping up and willing to take the fall for your best friend that wouldn’t be necessary.”

“Why not?” Kion returned with a raised eyebrow wondering why as she leaps over everyone.

“Because I'll forget Twilight's "punishment" on one condition.” She replied as the girls cheers until Kyoga silenced them as she speaks up.

“Girls. There’s a catch.” She reminded them. “My apologies, your highness.” She quickly bowed with an apologetic look.

“That’s quite all right.” She didn’t mind at all before continuing. “From this day forth, I would like you all to report to me your findings on the magic of friendship when, and only when, you happen to discover them.” She then added as she leaned down to Twilight’s eye level so she can personally relieve her student of her self-imposed burden as everyone all cheers with great pleasure as everyone all worked out in the end.

Before Princess Celestia could fly away just as she approached the balcony, Twilight ran after her for one last word with a question on her mind as Kion follows after her.

“Princess Celestia, wait! How did you know I was in trouble?”

“Your friend Spike made me aware that you were letting your fears get the best of you.” She answered as the baby dragon taking a peak quickly ducked out of sight as he still feels he is in trouble for meddling in her personal business and nearly getting her adoptive mother in trouble until Kion quickly placed a hoof to stop from running away while giving him an assuring smile to let him know that it’s okay and that he did what he had to do as everyone appears behind Twilight. “I commend him for taking your feelings seriously. Now, if you will all excuse me, I must return to Canterlot. I'm expecting some mail.”

Princess Celestia then flew away towards the moon before quickly teleporting away with a golden flash of magic.

“Well what you are waiting for?” Fuli encouragingly asked. “You heard the Princess.”

“Spike, take a letter.” Applejack added to the little dragon with his claws behind his back as he has a quill and scroll of parchment paper ready to use just as Twilight hugs him with a very thankful smile to let him know that she indeed is very grateful for helping her.

“Thank you.” She lovingly said to him as he returned the embrace before they all got together in a big circle as they all prepare their first group letter together as Applejack started as she took off her hat for the moment with Rarity getting her own personal pillow to rest her hooves on.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

We're writin' to you because today we all learned a little somethin' about friendship.”

“We learned that you should take your friends' worries seriously.” Fluttershy then said taking her turn in speaking.

“Always no matter what your friend is worrying about.” Fuli then added with a teasing grin at the girls who all stifle a group chuckle out of that comment.

“Even if you don't think that she has anything to worry about.” Rainbow continued.

“Especially when one small thing can make a difference no matter what…” Ono added Rarity took her turn in speaking.

“And that you shouldn't let your worries turn a small problem...” Rarity said as Pinkie and Bunga took their turns.

“...into an enormously huge entire-town-in-total-chaos problem…” Pinkie started.

“One where the Princess-has-to-come-and-save-the-day problem.” Bunga finished.

“And that true friends are always there for you.” Kyoga added.

“No matter what.” Beshte added in agreement.

“Who will always have her back no matter what." Kion finished as Applejack finishes with everyone’s signature as she put her hat back on.

“Signed, your loyal subjects."

“P.S. Obviously Spike did not have to learn a lesson, because he is the best, most awesome friend a pony could ask for. Unlike everypony else, he took things seriously, and- Eheh...” Spike then added and bragged as Twilight glared at him and shook her head disapprovingly of him for trying to be smug about it with everyone else following suit. “…uh... yeah... I'll just, um...” He nervously chuckled as he crossed it out to which everyone all laughed together while Kyoga just smirks while shaking her head while still finding it pretty amusing as the disgruntled dragon just snorted in a small huff even though he was trying to be overly prideful.

Outside of the tree-house and buried deep in the tree branches was Scar chuckling at the sight as well as he popped his head to get a good look at the laughing group of heroes before teleporting away to outside of Ponyville just at the entrance of the Everfree Forest.

“Such a very valuable lesson indeed.” He remarked at what had transpired during the day as displayed images of Twilight really losing it and going psycho.

“And all it takes is planting the right words in her mind.” He then recalled pretending to be Twilight’s conscience at the time when she was losing her mind.

“And it sure led to quite a show today to which she performed well at. All thanks to her so-called “friends.” dismissing her concerns when she needed their help the most.” He added while speaking friends with disdain. “Surely it goes to show of what you can do with the proper motivation.” He then pondered. “Now it’s just a matter of figuring out of how to use that to my advantage to tear that bond apart.“

He then pulled an image of Kion using the Roar of the Elders from when he helped defeat Nightmare Moon and later Discord.

“In the meantime, I will now see what the young leader of Lion Guard does while wracked with doubt because now it your turn, Kion. And I do hope you are ready to show me what you can really do with the Roar.” He then added as he viciously grinned at the image of the lion cub ready to test him in light of what happened earlier from that crazy afternoon.

Author's Note

In one of the near-perfect episodes of the show that continues to spark change heading into Season 2, we have Twilight suffering a Sanity Slippage and a near mental breakdown as a result of not having a friendship lesson for Princess Celestia.

The only difference that makes it count even if it didn't do much in stopping the insanity that ensued is the Lion Guard making the effort in trying to help Twilight in contrast to the Mane Five with Kion even going as far as taking the blame himself to spare her of being punished for her brief jump off the slippery slope.

That being said, that sharp contrast will play a role later in this story with what I have in mind.

Scar himself continues to mastermind the event's of the episode as he watched Twilight from the shadows seeing this as a test to see how Twilight can perform in a villainous role with a minimal role involvement in his Batman Gambit by just giving her a similar dose of illusion to push Twilight into doing what she did in this episode.

Next up is "Never Roar Again." where the first friendship lesson to be learned outside of Twilight will go to Kion, the Lion Guard's Fiercest, as the lion's self-doubt comes to light after losing control of the Roar for the first time, as Scar plans to learn more about the Roar himself.

Episode 4: Never Roar Again

Episode 4:

Never Roar Again

The following day after what happened in Ponyville, the Guard all together heads on another patrol with Twilight no longer having the (self-imposed) burden of sending a resolved friendship problem every week with everyone in the Guard now asked to report their findings of the magic of friendship when and only when they happen to discover them. There they come across Janja and his hyena clan over-doing their fair share again as they attempt to go after one more gazelle than they really need something that can upset the balance Circle of Life if they don’t think about it.

“Get outta here, Janja!” Kion shouted after them.

“Come on, Kion. It was just one gazelle.” Janja insisted as he and his clan leap over the borderline.

“One gazelle too many.” Twilight pointed out as they reach the border to make sure they are across it.

“Okay. Okay. See, we're back in the Outlands. You happy?” Janja said in a manner just to appease them.

“And this time, stay there!” Bunga yelled out to them.

“Yeah!” Pinkie also shouted as she used her party cannon to blast them all away.

“Nice work everybody. Let's go.” Kion complimented everyone as they all turned away to leave.

As soon as they were out of their sight, Janja leaps back inside of the Pride Lands still not giving up on trying to get what he wants.

“All right. Come on, fellas.” He ushered his clan.

“Huh? Where are we going, Janja?” Cheezi asked in confusion of his bold move.

“Where else? To get that gazelle.” He replied as he still pressed forward.

“Um... Back in the Pride Lands?” Chungu asked just as confused as his partner.

“Uh, Janja? Didn't the Lion Guard tell us to stay out of the Pride Lands?” The shorter dimwitted hyena pointed out.

“Yeah. And since when do we take orders from the Lion Guard?” Janja retorted as he turned to face them.

“Um... Since never?” The larger hyena honestly replied.

So the hyenas all followed Janja’s lead back in the Pride Lands coupled with Janja cackling to which the Guard heard from afar.

“What the…?” Rainbow commented as she and Ono flew up to see it themselves.

“Huh... Hapana. Looks like Janja and his clan are heading back into the Pride Lands!” Ono then reported as he and Rainbow flew back down towards the group.

“What? Don't they know when they've been beaten?” Bunga wondered while very annoyed of their persistent idiocy.

“Apparently not.” Kyoga noted with an expression as she somehow expected that from him

“Guess they're not giving up today.” Beshte commented.

“Nope.” Applejack shook her head.

“Ugh! Those hyenas.” Fuli groaned.

“C'mon, Lion Guard. Let's go!” Kion said as they all head back to make sure they stay out of the Pride Lands for good. (well at least for the rest of the day) Till the Pride Lands end…” Kion began as the others finished.

“Lion Guard defend!”

“Spread out, boys.” Janja then instructed his crew.

“I don't see that gazelle nowhere!” The large dimwit pointed out.

“You sure about this, Janja?” Cheezi asked still finding this a bad idea. “We were just chased out of the Pride Lands.”

“So if I wanna go into the Pride Lands, we go into the Pride Lands!” Janja replied still standing by his stance.

“Janja!” A voice called out and it is from the Queen of the Pride Lands herself. “What do you think you're doing in the Pride Lands?“ She sternly said to him while perched on top of a nearby rock.

“Nala, is this the Pride Lands?” The hyena leader pretended as he walked in a circle. “I must have got turned around. I would never wanna go where I'm not welcome.”

“But, Janja, you just said...” Cheezi tried to point out to which his leader had to interrupt him from opening his big mouth.

“Stuff it, fur-brain!” He warned him in a whisper as Nala leaped down to their eye level from the rock she was standing on.

“The Outlands are that way.”

“Yeah... So we keep hearin'.” He replied still unfazed nor listening to a word she says.

“So go.” The queen ordered them.

“Uh, I think she means it, Janja.” Chungu felt intimidated into listening to her with lowered ears as he started to back away along with Cheezi however Janja still wasn’t moved.

“Relax. She ain't so tough. Out here all alone. Outnumbered?” Janja insisted they can take her as the hyenas all gang up on her.

“You sure you want to do this, Janja?” She warned them as she faces off against his snarling pack.

“Oh, I'm sure. The question is... Are you?” Janja returned as they all circle around her with the hyena leader making the first moving by attempting to lunge at her only to get struck back by a bared claw from the lioness.

Cheezi and Chungu tried to advance on the queen next but the former got smacked away while the latter ended up smacking face first into a rock as the lioness dodged him while smacking aside the other two hyenas that tried to gang up on her from behind.

Just when Nala has easily beaten them she is suddenly blasted aside by powerful neon green magic that left her injured and vulnerable to the clan to which Janja spotted and wasted no time in having his recovering clan surround her.

“Okay, Janja! We've got you... Mom!” Kion began until he saw the defeated lioness about to be killed by Janja and his clan.

“Kion!” She weakly returned as Janja backed up to charge for the finishing blow.

“No!” He screamed in alarm seeing his mother in danger. An alarm that really sparked anger in his heart as everyone sees dark clouds forming from the skies above.

“Brace yourselves!” Twilight warned everyone as she conjured up a pink magical force field to protect themselves while quickly teleporting Nala inside the shield.

“Get away from my mom!” He shouted at the hyenas as he unleashed the power of the Roar on them to which sent flying back into the Outlands really fast as the tree’s leaves were ripped out of their branches.

“Whoa!”

“Oh my stars!

“Now that sure was one powerful roar there.”

Twilight, Rarity, and Rainbow commented in stunned surprise as young lion turns to his mother after the former cancels her force field.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion then said in mortified shock seeing his mother isn’t in front of where he roared. “Mom! Are you okay?!” He shouted after as he ran in the opposite direction hoping he didn’t accidentally kill her.

“I’m fine Kion, thanks to Twilight.” Nala called out from behind as they leaped from the perch to which her son was quick to run up to her for an relieved embrace. “And thank you both.” She then said to them.

“Of course, Mom!” Kion returned.

“Anything to protect you, your majesty.” Twilight returned with a bow while the others are still in shock from seeing Kion’s dark roar.

“Un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga remarked as the clouds from the Roar all fly towards the hills near the Outlands border causing the ground to shake upon impact.

“What’s happening?”

“What's the kerbubble?”

Pinkie and Beshte both stutter as the former’s tail starts twitching as Fuli sees what’s approaching them the clouds with the Lions of the Past’s heads coming right back at them.

“Whoa nelly!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Kion, your Roar... It's coming back towards us!” Fuli shouted as Twilight quickly teleported everyone together and conjured up her force field again.

As the Roar’s backlash hurled right towards them, Twilight strained as she struggled to maintain her grip on the spell while very determined to protect everyone at all costs as the ground around them started to shake as everyone is all slightly pushed back by the Roar’s power.

“Whoa!”

“Oh, no!”

Kion and Ono exclaimed as they are all pushed back just as Twilight’s grip on her forcefield gave out.

Just then an earthquake occurred to which Nala had the misfortune of nearly falling in until Twilight quickly grabbed her with her magic.

“Mom! Mom!” Kion called out to her as he quickly ran over to help them.

“Kion?” She returned as Twilight groaned while slowly lifting the queen out of the hole that had been created from the earthquake it is clear that she has worked her magic to her limits.

“Hang on!” Kion called out as he reached his paw out to her just as the pain from overuse of magic is starting to wear her down. “Almost...Got you!” He then said as he managed to grab onto her just as Twilight’s grip gave out.

Once Kion was able to pull Nala out of harm’s way, Twilight then dropped to her knees while completely exhausted from using her magic in saving everyone.

“Mom, are you okay?” Kion asked as they nuzzled together.

“I'm all right, Kion. Thanks to you and Twilight.” Nala assured.

“I almost lost you.” Kion expressed relief as the queen gently pulled up Twilight’s head for a nuzzle too just as the rest of the Guard approaches them.

“Kion! Nala! Twilight!” Fuli called out to them.

“You're not hurt, are you?” Beshte asked.

“We're fine.” Nala replied as they gestured to the unicorn lying on the ground while kneeling down to her eye level while stroking her mane. “Twilight is just really worn out from using her magic in saving all of us.”

“That use of magic must have really did a number on her.” Fuli figured seeing that Twilight is unable to get up and talk.

“She did use quite an excessive load of magic in trying to protect us all from that there earthquake.” Applejack pointed out.

“Sure reminds us of something we did together.” Rainbow brought up.

“I know, and don’t remind us.” Fuli acknowledged while still feeling foolish for having to learn about the dangers of too much solo work which nearly led to them being vulture prey if it weren’t for the rest of the Guard along with Kyoga showing up to buy them time.

“I'll say it again, Un-Bunga-lievable.” Bunga repeated his thoughts of Kion’s dark roar.

“It sure was.” Pinkie remarked cheerfully. “That roar sent those hyenas flying all the way across the Outlands, along with blowing all of the trees away, and even created an earthquake. I didn’t know you could do that.”

“Me neither.” Kion sadly replied not finding any joy in it before asking a question to everyone. “Is everyone okay?”

“Yup.”

“I am.”

“Yes.”

“I’m okay.”

“So am I.”

“Me, too.”

Bunga, Pinkie, Fuli, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow Dash all confirmed while Twilight just weakly nods in the prince’s direction.

“I’m okay.”

“Affirmative.”

Rarity and Ono replied as they all look in surprise at seeing them or more specifically Ono.

“Huh?

“Oh, boy.”

“Oh...”

Beshte, Rainbow, and Fuli all commented at the sight.

“What?”

“What are you all staring at?”

The two asked as the unicorn’s mane was completely straighten out and frazzled to the point of looking like lightning bolts from the impact of the Roar while the egret’s feathers were blown off with one of them landing on his beak.

“Oh, strange. That looks like one of my feathers.” Ono commented as he is unaware that he is now bald while Rarity dramatically gasps and passes out as she falls over on the ground when she sees what has happened. “Rarity?” He asked the unicorn who passed out.

“Should we say something?” Bunga whisper asked the others.

“I wouldn't.” Fuli advised against it.

“Me neither.” Rainbow agreed.

“Probably for the best we don’t.” Fluttershy commented.

“Maybe he won't notice.” Beshte hoped.

“How could he not? He’s gonna notice sooner or later.” Applejack pointed out as Fluttershy and Pinkie quickly placed hooves on her mouth to silence her.

“Notice what?” Ono asked still confused. “Huh, funny, suddenly my head's kinda cold.” He then felt a draft due to no longer having any feathers.

Kion then looked towards to where he roared where the area is filled with now broken and dead trees along with the cracked ground from the aftermath of the earthquake before looking back at the weakened lavender unicorn still recovering from the magic strain she suffered from saving everyone.

“Hevi kabisa.” Kion then said while horrified of what he accidentally had done to a portion of the Pride Lands along with what nearly happened to his best friend and mother. “The Roar did all this?” He asked himself as he walked away with his head lowered in shame just as Nala scoops Twilight up and places her onto her back while everyone all goes back home.

As everyone leaves, Scar appears from afar watching while standing on the Pride Lands and Outlands border feeling very pleased to see what has just happened.

“It sure did.” He bluntly answered to himself as he recalled and pulled up Janja walking towards his clan after being once again defeated by the Guard.

“No way I’m letting Kion stop us even when he has the Roar.” Janja said to himself as he grumbled.

“And right you are, Janja.” Scar’s voice spoke to them he got startled by the sound of his voice.

“Who said that?” Janja asked as he looked around assuming a defensive stance. “It’d better not be you bird brain!”

“Don’t worry. You can trust me.” He assured despite his ominous voice. “And that just because Kion can roar whenever he catches you shouldn’t discourage from continuing to try because one day you might actually succeed in getting your way.”

“Really?” Janja was still skeptical. “And why should listen to you whoever you are?”

“And why should you listen to a child who is constantly defeating you?” Scar’s voice rebounded back. “Think about it because deep down you know you want one those delicate and tender gazelles.” The villainous lion’s voice tempted before leaving him be.

“Why should I? Kion is just a child!” Janja came to agree as he set out to regroup with his clan to prepare other attack on the gazelles. “Even when he does have the Roar!”

As Janja runs off ahead Scar watches from out of sight feeling pleased that he was able to convince him to keep trying while setting the domino effect in place.

The next day, at the Lair of the Lion Guard the whole guard minus Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy are all gathering inside all trying to encourage Ono that he’ll be fine even with the loss of his crest feathers.

“What's the big deal about a few missing feathers? They'll grow back, right?” He positively asked his comrades.

“That's the spirit, Ono!” Beshte complimented from the pond with Rainbow Dash relaxing in the water too while Fuli, Bunga, Applejack, and Pinkie watch rest on the perch from above with Kion looking at the cave paintings nearby.

So far Ono has been positive about it until he looked down and saw his reflection in the water

“Oh, no! That's me?”

“Yeah, pretty much.” Fuli replied with utmost honesty and a smile.

“Sorry, partner.” Applejack added as she saw it was inevitable either way as the egret began to panic.

“What are all the other egrets going to say? You think they'll notice?”

“Oh, they'll definitely notice. It's impossible not to notice. I mean, everyone's gonna notice.” Bunga answered while insensitively rambling his mind off.

“I mean look at that head. You look bald.” Pinkie added as Ono felt further unnerved to which earned the two hoof slaps from Applejack.

“Bunga.” Fuli whispered to them to remind them of their manners.

“Pinkie.” Applejack whispered in a more stern tone and look.

“I mean, no one's gonna notice. I barely noticed.”

“Yeah, you look great!”

The two attempted to quickly correct themselves which did little to undo the damage they just did.

“My head looks weird without feathers.” Ono then complained with a sigh.

“Nah! Just looks smooth, like a hippo's backside.” Beshte assured.

“My head looks like a hippo bottom. That's something to celebrate.” Ono sarcastically remarked not feeling any better.

“You look fine from below. Long as you fly higher than everyone, they'll never know.” Bunga made an effort to change that.

“And if I don't fly higher?”

“Well, then you'll stand out!” Pinkie answered. “And be a rotten egg too!” She giggled as Fuli and Applejack glare at her. “What?” She innocently replied. “Everyone’s gotta be able to laugh at themselves once a while.”

As Ono flew away, Bunga and Pinkie broke out into a tune while trying to get him to understand that a few missing feathers don’t make a difference.

Stand Up, Stand Out

“Bunga, Pinkie, that doesn't make me feel better.” Ono responded to them as they continued singing as they point to the nearby paintings of giraffes and elks with Pinkie hanging upside down on the latter painting while dropping to the ground in a comedic manner after realizing she wasn’t hanging onto anything.

“I’m okay.” She said.

“Well, there's predators, for one.” Ono pointed out as the two continue to sing to further motivate him while Beshte and Rainbow Dash approach while wondering of how to help as Ono continues to move away out of discomfort with his new (albeit temporary) appearance.

“It does?” Ono asked with a sigh as Bunga and Pinkie swing on vines as Applejack, Rainbow Dasg, Fuli, and Beshte all join in on singing their encouragement to Ono to which the egret smiled at their undying support as Bunga directs his attention to a painting of Timon and Pumbaa while swinging on vines before they all finished the song together.

“Right, Kion?” Bunga asked his best friend. “Kion.” He called out for him when he didn’t get an immediate response.

“Huh?” He said as he turned back. “Yeah. Ono looks great.” He flatly replied as he was more focused on the paintings in front of him.

“Well, obviously he didn't look.” Bunga felt a little annoyed by that as he and the other ponies walk over to where Kion is. “So what are you looking at, Kion?”

“Something very interesting.”

“Or exciting.”

Pinkie and Rainbow asked until the four all got a good look at the painting in front of them...

“Yeesh.” Pinkie commented with a disturbed expression along with the others.

“Scar destroying his Lion Guard with the Roar.” Rainbow commented at the painting of Scar doing just that.

“My uncles say Scar was the worst lion ever! Good thing you're the one with the Roar now, huh?” Bunga added his input while unaware that it didn’t help his concerns of wanting not become like Scar.

“Yeah... Good thing.” Kion just said as he looked aside.

“I don’t think what you just said did anything to help him feel better.” Rainbow whispered to the honey badger just as Zazu flies in with Nala, Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy all joining him as the lavender unicorn is supported by the queen as she stumbles a little.

“Lion Guard? Pony Guard? Ah, there you are! Thank goodness.” He greeted everyone. “Your majesty.” He added with a bow to the lioness.

“What’s going on Zazu?” She asked.

“Yeah? What are you doing here?” Fuli asked the question everyone is thinking of.

“Ono's job, apparently.” He answered before giving his report. “There's been a rock slide. No one was injured, but it cut the giraffes off from their watering hole.”

“Oh, no.” Ono expressed with worry to which is met with a scoff from the horn bill while annoyed of having to do his job.

“Oh, yes, Ono.”

“Heyvi kabisa!” Kion expressed surprise hearing this news.

“You would have known had you been on the lookout.” Zazu began to remark it should have an easy job before reacting with surprise upon seeing Ono’s bald head. “Oh...”

“There's nothin' wrong with him. He stands out!” Bunga and Pinkie said in his defense when Ono’s folded his wings upon the hornbill’s surprise.

“Indeed.” He agreed as he regained his composure. “In any case, the giraffes need your help.”

“Right. We're on it.” Kion said as he led the others on over there. “Till the Pride Lands end...”

“Lion Guard...” The others minus Twilight and Ono began as they didn’t follow after them.

“Ono?”

“Twilight?”

Bunga and Applejack called back to them.

“You two coming?” Fuli asked them.

“Uh, I'm not sure.” Ono replied not leaning on accompanying then.

“You've got to come. You're the keenest of sight.” Beshte insisted.

“Beshte's right, Ono. Come on, we need you.” Kion agreed and urged him to do so.

“You heard Kion. Duty calls.” Zazu also agreed as he pushed the egret out towards the entrance. “Mustn't dawdle. Spit spot.”

“Whoa! Okay! Okay! Lion Guard defend. Lion Guard defend!” Ono exclaimed and finished the battle cry.

“Zazu can be pretty persuasive.” Fuli said with a chuckle before turning to Twilight. “And how about you, Twilight?”

“Sorry everyone.” She apologized as she rubbed her forehead. “But I’m going to have to sit out on this one.”

“She’s still recovering from what happened yesterday.” Fluttershy explained to the Lion Guard leader.

“Even when we’ve been trying to give her bed rest along with giving her one my finest couches for her to rest on here in Pride Rock she still hasn’t been able to cast a simple spell ever since.” Rarity added as Kion expressed further guilt for what happened to her because of him losing control of the Roar.

“It’ll be okay.” Twilight insisted she’ll be fine. “It’s just a simple check up on giraffes. Go to them.”

“It’ll be okay, Kion.” Nala supported Twilight while assuring her son. “I’ll be right by her side the whole way until she is ready to step up to reassume her duties once again.”

“Okay.” Kion just agreed for the sake of it before pressing forward with the others following after him. “Now let's go!”

Just after the Guard left, Nala then escorted Twilight out of the lair too.

“And how about we go for a walk so we can try to help you get some of your strength back?” She offered to the unicorn.

“I would love that.” Twilight kindly accepted the other as they walked outside side by side with the former still stumbling a little with Nala being there to correct it.

Elsewhere, the giraffes are all looking upon the rockslide blocking their watering hole just as the Guard arrives.

“At least the giraffes are all waiting patiently.” Beshte pointed out so far so good.

“For now.” Fuli added that it won’t last if nothing is done in ensuring they aren’t deprived of their water as Ono flew down for a landing to which one of the male giraffes leaned down to address him rather annoyed assuming he is cutting in line to get water.

“Hey! Wait your turn, egg-head!”

“"Egg-head"? Is that a reference to how smart I am?” Ono remarked assuming it’s a compliment.

“No, it's a reference to your head looking like an egg!” Twiga corrected as the two giraffes laughed along with Rainbow who really liked the name as she rolled onto her back laughing her head off.

“Good one! That fits Twilight to the T.” Rainbow laughed along with the two giraffes until Applejack pulled her away by the ear while slapping him on the back of the head as Ono groaned in deflated disappointment as Fuli and Bunga come to his defense.

“Hey, don't call Ono an egg-head!” She angrily told them off while glaring at Rainbow too for encouraging them.

“Yeah! His head looks more like a hippo bottom!” Bunga added to which only fanned the flames of the laughter and Ono’s humiliation.

“Maybe next time, keep your mouth shut.” Kyoga advised to the honey badger in a disappointed tone. “Because right now you’re burying Ono in a deep hole here.”

“The rocks have blocked the only way in.” One of the other giraffes explained the problem to the Lion Guard’s Fiercest as he examined the situation.

“Oh, yeah! This is an easy one. You can just use the Roar and blast those rocks away!” Bunga proposed.

“Uh, I have a better idea.” Kion quickly voiced against it as he thought of another idea. “Um... Beshte! Applejack! If you two move that one big rock, it'll open up the whole thing.”

“ Hmm... Maybe...”

“I suppose.”

The two strongest members seemed a little reluctant of the idea.

“Come on, Kion. Just use the Roar!”

“Use the Roar! Use the Roar! Use the Roar!”

Bunga and Pinkie encouraged him into doing it with the latter wearing a cheerleading outfit to which annoyed the lion greatly.

“Bunga, Pinkie, we're trying this first.” He snapped at them asserting his decision is final to which surprised them and leaving the latter slightly hurt at being snapped at like that as Kyoga bats a curious eye at Kion’s adamant refusal to use the Roar. “Beshte? Applejack?” He then asked of them.

“You got it, Kion.”

“Let’s do this!”

The two confidentially replied as they approached the very large rock on opposite sides.

“Everybody stand back. We don't want any rocks to hit anybody.” Kion cautioned everyone as they all complied with his orders.

“Here we go!”

“Twende kiboko!”

The two then said as they worked together to create an opening as they move the rock aside no problem.

“Great news, giraffies! Your watering hole's back open!”

“Plenty of water for everyone!”

Bunga and Pinkie declared to everyone.

“It worked. Huzzah! I'm thirsty.” Shingo voiced his delight as everyone quenches their thirst together.

“Nice work, Applejack, Beshte.” Kion commended them.

“Thanks, Kion.”

“No problem.”

The two humbly replied as they heard as they heard more desperate cries for help nearby.

“Uh-oh! Now what?” Bunga asked feeling annoyed of who could possibly need their help now.

They walk over to the nearby stream as they see a klipspringer trapped on a rock in the middle of following body of water as Ono quickly flew over to him.

“Don't worry, little guy, we'll get you to safety. Somehow.” He assured him.

“He's a klipspringer! Can't he just jump to the other side?” Bunga questioned wondering why it’s so hard for him to make a simple jump.

“I think the poor little guy's too scared to move.” Beshte reasoned with him.

“I wouldn’t blame him.” Fluttershy sympathized with him recalling the times her wings froze whenever she was scared.

“We'll have to go get him.” Kion voiced of what they’ll have to do.

“The water's moving too fast for me, Kion.”

“And I don’t wanna be too rough on him.”

The strongest members of the Guard ruled their approaches out.

“And it's too wet for me.”

“I agree.”

Both Fuli and Rarity ruled out getting in the water.

“So just stop the water. You could do it with the Roar.” Bunga again proposed using the Roar.

“No, not the Roar.” Kion again was quick to reject the idea. “Um, I have a better idea.” He thought then as he turned to Rainbow and Fluttershy. “Rainbow Dash! Fluttershy! You two fly over there and fly him out of there!”

“You got it Kion!” Rainbow immediately flew over there as Fluttershy joined her. “Ready?”

“Ready?” She quietly returned as she addressed the distressed animal. “It’s okay we got you.” She gently said to the klipspringer as the two peagsus ponies work together to gently lift him up from the rock and out to the other side. “There you go! You’re all safe and sound.” She said as she nuzzled him before he happily hopped away.

“Great work you two!” Kion complimented them as Rainbow flexed her muscles while Fluttershy slightly blushed at his praise.

“Hey, Ono!” A voice called out to the egret.

“Oh, no. I knew this would happen.” Ono figured as three tall and bigger egrets with white crest feathers eye him from one of the nearby dead trees.

“What's with your feathers? You're bald on the front end!” The egret asked him.

“I know, I ended up losing them by accident!” The shorter and younger egret replied.

“Okay, egrets.” Kyoga called out to them with her claws bared ready to advance on them. “Move along, not another word. Show’s over.” She warned them with a threatening growl as they all quickly fly away before they end up provoking the lioness.

“This is so embarrassing.” Ono then whined.

“It’s not so bad.” Fluttershy comforted. “They’ll grow back.”

Even with his friends best efforts to comfort and assure him, the Guard’s Keenest of Sight isn’t feeling any better.

As everyone all walk downstream with Kion the last to follow them both Applejack and Bunga slide back for a quick word with the leader of the Lion Guard.

“Hey, Kion? How come you didn't just use the Roar back there?“ Bunga asked.

“No reason.” He just said as he pressed forward to which Applejack took a turn in pressing for the real reason why Kion refused to use the Roar.

“Is there something more to what happened yesterday that you’re still doubting about?”

“You can tell us.” Bunga encouraged him to be honest to which he does.

“After what happened with my mom and Twilight, I'm afraid I might hurt someone else with the Roar like Scar.”

“Say what? Kion!” Bunga was mind blown there. “It's not like you did that on purpose.”

“We were all there and we know you didn’t mean to lose control back there.” Applejack added.

“I know, Bunga. But that's the problem. I couldn't control it! I don't know if I should ever use the Roar again.” Kion further voiced his self-doubts out of fear of turning out like Scar.

“Never use the Roar again?” Bunga shouted in shock to which Applejack quickly placed her hooves over his mouth to keep the others from hearing.

“Bunga! Shh!” Kion shushed them as they all weren’t too close to hear the honey badger’s outburst.

“Tell me you're joking. Never use the Roar again?” Bunga asked as he chuckled nervously as the lion turned to look at the nearby stream. “You're joking, right?”

“Bunga, I...” Kion tried to say as Bunga further tried to encourage him otherwise.

“I think what Kion is trying to say is that he is worried he might hurt someone again even if it was an accident.” Applejack explained to the honey badger. “Is that true?”

“Yes.” He returned while looking away.

“Kion, you're the leader of the Lion Guard. You're the Pride Lands' fiercest! You gotta use the Roar! Zuka Zama, right?” He added as he placed a comforting arm around his shoulder.

“Zuka Zama. Sure.” Kion just said as Applejack sees it did little to improve his stance.

“It’s okay, Kion.” Applejack comforted him. “Everyone knows it was an accident and I’m sure Queen Nala and Twilight would both say the same thing.”

“Right.” Kion then said as he felt better thanks to their encouragement. “Thank you both.”

“There ya go. Glad I could help!” Bunga returned as he patted his mane. “Another problem solved by Bunga the Wise.” Applejack just shook her head upon hearing that still smiling. “Now I'm gonna go help Ono!” He then pressed forward as the three all walk off to catch up with the others.

As they all walk away, Makuu, the leader of the crocodiles pops his head out of hiding underwater after hearing every word thanks to a spark of magic to give them a hearing boost.

“So... Kion's afraid to use the Roar and Twilight's hurt. Interesting. “ Makuu chuckled at hearing of this weakness. “Looks like it's time to make my move.”

“You mean go back to Big Springs?” One of the crocodiles asked as he popped his head out from under water as he too eavesdropped on their conversation.

“Who needs Big Springs when the whole Flood Plains could be ours!” Makuu stated as he thinks big looking towards the bigger picture of more they can take.

As the crocodile float head downstream to make their move as Scar watches with the appearance of his eyes only seen behind their backs.

Meanwhile, Kion retreats to his usual quiet spot where he speaks to his grandfather’s spirit for advice.

“Grandfather Mufasa?” He called for him as he appeared from the skies.

“Yes, Kion. I'm here.” He warmly greeted as his grandson explains his current troubles.

“I'm worried about the Roar. The last time I used it, I was really angry. And it caused so much destruction!”

“The Roar of the Elders is very powerful.”

“I know.” Kion acknowledged as he sat down. “And that's why I'm thinking... “ He sighed as he openly thought… ”I shouldn't use it again. I... I'm worried that I might turn into Scar.”

“Scar cared only for himself. His selfishness fueled his anger.” Mufusa pointed out. “Why were you angry, Kion?”

“Janja and the hyenas. They were attacking my mom. I was so mad at them when I used the Roar!” Kion answered as hints of anger crept up in his tone. “I lost control. It hurt my best friend Twilight and it almost hurt my mom. I almost hurt my mom and Twilight got hurt trying to save everyone!” He added with honest guilt of what could have happened to his mother and worse his best friend and co-leader of the Guard.

“Scar never cared for anyone else the way you do, Kion. So perhaps you should speak with the ones you care so much about.” Mufusa gently advised while pointing out to his grandson of how he stands out better than the former tyrant.

“Right. I will.” He replied as he stood up. “Thank you, Grandfather.”

With what was needed to be heard said and done Mufusa disappeared.

Meanwhile, back at the Flood Plains, everyone there is all relaxing and drinking water just as Makuu arrive to take over.

“The Flood Plains belong to the crocodiles now!” He said to his followers before leading the attack as he quickly scares away two bush bucks. “That's right, bush bucks! Leave!”

Everyone all flees for safety as the crocodiles cover more ground as a mongoose scatters by Thurston.

“Now see here! I was drinking that!” He complained just as he spots the crocodile leader threateningly advances on him. “Oh, dear! Panic and run! Panic and run!” He quickly did so as he at least had the brains to do something smart for once.

“That's right, run! And tell all your friends. The Flood Plains now belong to the crocodiles!” Makuu then declared with a victorious chuckle.

As the mongoose runs away he quickly runs by Fuli in a panic before being intercepted by the speedy blue peagsus accompanying her.

“Hold it right there!” Rainbow urged him to stop as Fuli spoke with him.

“Are you okay?” She asked.

“Makuu and the crocs. They took over...the Flood Plains.” The mongoose explained in between pants as he tried to catch his breath.

“Makuu...” Fuli expressed with a grim tone as Rainbow growled at the mention of his name.

“That son of a….” Rainbow snorted in anger.

“Don't worry. The Lion Guard and Pony Guard will take care of this.” Fuli assured him as the Fastest members of the Guard quickly head on over to get the rest of the Guard so they can all deal with him together.

Having said that the Guard minus Twilight are all there continuing their efforts in trying to come up with alternate methods to compensate for his feather loss.

“Oh, I don't know about this, Bunga.” Ono voiced his doubts as his new idea involves a head wear made completely out of flowers.

“Trust me.” He said as he picked out some flowers that didn’t fit in. “Almost done. Just a little more off the top.”

“Poa! It's a whole new look, Ono.” The hippo complimented.

“Wow!” Rarity awed at Bunga’s creation. “I’m impressed, darling.”

“Is that good?” Ono asked as Bunga hushed him.

“Shh! I'm trying to get the sides even.” He said as he made the final touches. “There. Now let's see what I can do about these tail feathers.” He then said as he spun the rock around as he examined the bird’s backside just as Fuli and Rainbow arrive on the scene.

“Hey you guys!” Rainbow called out to everyone.

“Have a seat. I'll be with you in a minute.” Bunga said not even looking at them as the two gawked at Ono’s headwear.

“What is that?” Fuli asked before getting back on track. “Whatever. Listen! Makuu and his crocs just took over the Flood Plains!”

“He can't do that!” Fluttershy cried in protest.

“A lot of animals depend on those plains.“ Beshte added.

“Exactly. We gotta get down there.” Rainbow stated of what they need to do as Fuli turned to the Keenest of Sight.

“Ono, find Kion, tell him to meet us at the Flood Plains.”

“Affirmative!” He saluted as he flew off ahead.

“Careful, Ono! That's a Bunga original!” Bunga warned him as a couple of leaves fell off of the headpiece.

“Well said darling. Well said.” Rarity complimented seeing that her sense for fashion is rubbing off on him.

Back at the Flood Plains, Makuu and his crocs are now resting in relaxation when the lead croc sees Fuli and Rainbow along with the rest of the Guard arriving on the scene.

“Someone's looking for trouble.” He commented as they all confront him for his hostile takeover.

“All right, Makuu, you've had your fun. Now it's time for you to leave.” Fuli demanded of the arrogant leader.

“Get out, or we'll throw you out.” Bunga also warned him as Rainbow raised her fists up as she flapped her wings ready to attack should he refuse to back down.

“Without your fearless leaders?” He scoffed. “Or... Or should I say, your magic-less and Roar-less leaders? Hmm…” He added as everyone all expressed confused expression.

“What the hay are you talking about?” Applejack demanded.

“Oh? You didn't hear?” He chuckled as he briefly stood up on two legs. “Mighty Kion and Mighty Twilight, leaders of the Lion Guard and Pony Guard, too weak and too much of cowards to use their Roar and magic against us.”

“Says the one who’s only brave enough to challenge us without them around.” Rainbow challenged as she got right in his face taking offense to those insults. “And don’t you dare call my friends a coward, coward!” She threateningly added.

“And if you think the Lion Guard needs the Roar to defeat you, you're sadly mistaken.” Fuli added.

“We'll see about that.” Makuu laughed it off before attempting to bite at both the fastest members of the Guard.

“We'll take Makuu.” Fuli spoke to the others as she and Rainbow prepare to fight him off. “Think you all can handle the rest?”

“You know it, Fuli!” Beshte answered as the others got ready to fight even Rarity and Fluttershy even though the former doesn’t want to ruin her mane again while the latter isn’t still keen on fighting them.

Bunga with Beshte giving him a boost into the air manages to leap him high into the air.

“Zuka Zama!” He shouted as clammed onto one of the crocidles snouts leving him struggling to shake him off. “Take that!”

“Twende kiboko!” Beshte shouted as he knocked aside the other two crocidles as they all wrestled in the water together with Applejack leaping with her lasso to tie them up.

“Yeehaw! Giddy up um gators!”

Pinkie then leaped into the chaos as she unleashed her party cannon on the two crocs as she sent them flying into the water as Rarity leaps over and karate kicks them to knock them out.

“Feel my wrath, party crashers!” The party pony shouted after their defeated opponents before sharing a high-five with the unicorn before pressing forward on their fight together.

Fuli is now struggling as Makuu has the cheetah in his jaws while resisting having him snap his jaws at her as Makuu was finally able to force her out while nearly crashing into a nearby tree.

But before he could advance on her, he is greeted with a punch to the face by Rainbow Dash.

Makuu growling with determination against his two more agile and speedy opponents viciously snapped his jaws against him as the two work together with the cheetah effortlessly dodging him while the latter repeatedly lands punches on his snout to force him back into the water as Fuli moved to tackle and restrain him.

“Huwezi!“ She shouted as she managed to hold him dead to his rights. “Told you we didn't need the Roar nor Twilight's magic to beat the likes of you.” She told him with a victorious smirk.

“Give up?” Rainbow confidentially asked feeling they have won now.

“"Give up"? Me? Oh, I don't think so.” Makuu defiantly refused as he quickly flipped over to knock Fuli off of her back while tail slapping Rainbow away and back over to where the entire float surrounds the entire group.

“Did you think I'd try to take over the whole Flood Plain with only three crocodiles?” He then smugly gloated.

“I kinda did.” Pinkie honestly replied as she shakes her empty canon. “I just wish I brought more confetti.

“Me too.” Bunga added.

“Don’t even think about.” Kyoga stood in everyone’s defense as Fluttershy who’s been watching and evading the crocodiles at every turn as took a stand.

“Take one step closer and I’ll give you all the stare!” Fluttershy warned to which he laughed it off again.

“Oh, really. How sweet and cute of you to even try to use this so called stare on me?” He childishly mocked as Fluttershy released her harden glare at the float as they all shield their eyes finding her death glare very painful thus forcing them into submission even Makuu was starting to get worried at the pony he had just mocked as he tried to resist as he tried to snap his jaws at her only for Kyoga to swipe at him to back off with a swing of her claws.

“You should have backed off while you had the chance?” Kyoga told him off as Makuu was nervously sweating at the peagsus’s harden look.

Elsewhere, Kion has found and met up with both Nala and Twilight as the young prince explains himself of what happened the other day.

“And then I saw you surrounded by hyenas and it made me so angry. I know I'm not supposed to use the Roar in anger. But I did. And, and then...” Kion explained and struggled until Nala spoke up.

“I know, Kion. I was there.”

“So was I.” Twilight added with a friendly smile.

“So, what I need to know is...” Kion then said as he asked… “Can you both ever forgive me?

“Forgive you? There's nothing to forgive. You were saving my life.” Nala assured he has nothing to be sorry about as she patted her son on the head.

“But the Roar created that earthquake. And you fell in!” Kion pointed to his mother.

“And you and Twilight helped me out.” Nala pointed out.

“I know but…” He acknowledged with lowered ears as he turned to the unicorn with deep regret. “…it was also because me using the Roar in anger that you ended up getting hurt.” He expressed his guilt over putting her in a position to where she ended up straining herself to injury. “Ever since, I've been afraid to use the Roar.”

“Kion, the Roar is part of who you are. You can't just stop using it.” Twilight pointed out.

“But how do you both know I won't use it in anger again and hurt someone?” Kion asked.

“Because I know you. I trust you.” Nala comforted as she placed a paw on his chin.

“So do I.” Twilight added with a hoof on his shoulder. “Because you care and proven you'll go through great lengths to protect us. Something that Scar would never do.”

Kion smiled in gratitude as their short bonding moment was interrupted by Ono’s arrival.

“Kion! Kion! It's Makuu!” He alerted.

“Makuu? What's he done this...” He seriously asked until he got distracted by his headpiece. “Uh, Ono?”

“What's on your head?” Twilight asked.

“It's a Bunga original.” He answered with a small sigh. “I'll explain on the way. Follow me!”

The three all follow after him as Kion pops the question to the unicorn.

“Sounds like he has been taking lessons from Rarity, hasn’t he?”

“Yep.” Twilight replied with a “figures.” expression before setting full focus on dealing with Makuu and his float as they all arrive on the scene.

“Makuu! These Flood Plains aren't yours!” Kion addressed him as he and his float turned to face the four.

“You're welcome to use them, as are all the animals of the Pride Lands.” The queen added.

“And if you're not willing to share, then it's time to leave.” Twilight also warned them.

“That's right! You heard Twilight, Kion, and Queen Nala!” Pinkie said as she and Bunga splashed water at them.

“Clear out! The Flood Plains don't belong to you!” Bunga added as Makuu still refuses to back off even when he has been intimidated and forced to back off by Kyoga and Fluttershy.

“Sure looks like they do to me. We crocodiles keep what we take.”

He proves his point by having two crocodiles ambush Nala while quickly pulling a sneak attack on the distracted peagsus.

“The Queen!” Ono exclaimed.

“Fluttershy!” Rainbow quickly flew over to fish her out of the water as she remained knocked out cold from the hit.

“Mom!” Kion shouted as he grunted angrily as dark clouds began to form behind. “No. Not in anger.” He said as he calmed himself down as the dark clouds dissipated. “Makuu...” He began as he regained his composure.

“What are you going to do, Kion? Roar at me? And risk hurting your mom? Again?” The arrogant croc smugly taunted as he got in front of the queen while turning to Twilight to taunt her too. "And how about you Twilight beause surely you realize that you'd be hurting yourself by even trying to use your magic against us along with risking hurting your friends too, Hmm."

Kion is still struggling and fuming in anger as dark clouds formed again before quickly reining himself in again as Twilight remained undeterred by Makuu's arrogance.

“Kion, trust yourself.” The queen advised as Twilight nudges at him as she shows him a little trick by working her magic in sending a strong controlled wave at one of the crocs knocking him back.

Getting the idea, Kion unleashes a controlled variant of the Roar which knocks out another crocodile.

“Poa!” Beshte remarked in amazement as the others gawk at this new display of power, much more powerful than before as the two work together using their magic and the Roar to pick off the crocodiles one by one as their leader’s smug smirk has faded into sudden fear as he realizes that Kion is no longer afraid to use the Roar and that Twilight’ magic is working 100% and is not to be underestimated as the two approach him.

“Next time when we say go…” Twilight began.

“…you leave!” Kion finished as the two unleashed a magically enhanced roar even stronger than Kion’s dark roar that sends the entire float flying away.

As Nala smiled and swam to the shore, the others regrouped with them as the two leaders share a fist-hoof bump together.

“That was un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga expressed his delighted amazement.

“Poa! It sure was.” Beshte agreed.

“I didn't know you could do that with the Roar, Kion.” Fuli commented while impressed.

“Looks like somepony’s feeling better already.” Applejack praised the unicorn for her speedy recovery as the speedy peagsus greeted the unicorn with a hug.

“Especially if she is capable of unleashing magic just as powerful as Kion’s Roar and not drop to her knees.” Rainbow excitedly complimented as she gushed over her friend's new's accomplishments. “That was so one hundred and twenty percent awesome!”

“Neither did we.” Kion returned as he turned to his mother and best friend. “Guess I just had to have a little faith in myself.”

“I've always had faith in you.” Nala assured.

“So did I.” Twilight added as the three all hug each other like family.

“Hey, guys! Look!” Ono called out to everyone as he is no longer wearing his headpiece.

“Aw! You lost your headpiece.” Fuli commented seeing that he is no longer afraid of being judged for looks.

“I can make you another one.” Bunga offered.

“No need. Look!” Ono pointed out to the feathers starting to grow back in. “My feathers have already started to grow back! I'll be back to looking like a normal egret in no time!”

“Oh, Ono.” Rarity just shook her head while still smiling. “You were always a normal egret with or without your feather.”

“Ono! Check it out!” The egret along with his friends all came over while showing them they decided to shave all of their white feathers off after deciding they actually liked Ono’s new look and decided to follow his example.

“Look at that, Ono. You started a trend!” Beshte said looking very pleased that the egrets are actually quite friendly and not really giving him a hard time over it.

“Oh! Well, I suppose I did.” Ono said just as pleased as everyone shares a good laugh together well expect for the stoic lioness who steps forward without barring her claws with an apologetic look on her face for quickly assuming they were going to laugh at him earlier and chasing them off.

“Wow.” Was all she could say. “I guess I owe you all an apology.”

“It’s okay.” He holds no ill will towards her. “We actually did think about doing until you snapped sense into us. And after some thinking we decided to help cheer him and make him feel better by shaving our own feathers to encourage him that a bird’s feathers does not define of who they are.”

“Oh it’s that just so sweet.” Fluttershy awed at the kind gesture.

“It sure is.” Rarity agreed. “At least all’s well that ends well.” She said to everyone.

“You said it.” Kion replied as he couldn’t have said it any better as they all share a happy group laugh together before Twilight pulls out a quill and paper so she can write down both the friendship lessons that Kion and Ono both learned today.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned a valuable lesson about myself.

On one of the most recent times I used the Roar against Janja and his hyenas I ended up using it in anger when they attacked my mom and because of it, I ended up destroying a small portion of the Pride Lands while causing an earthquake. Because of the Roar’s backlash, it ended up putting my mom in danger with Twilight getting hurt when she strained herself when she used her magic in protecting all of us from my Roar.

After what happened to them, I never wanted to use the Roar again out of fear of becoming like Scar. But thanks to both of them, I learned that the Roar is a part of who I am, and with a little faith in myself I shouldn’t be afraid to use without fearing I’ll hurt someone again and that’s why I’ll never become as bad as Scar.

Signed,

The Lion Guard’s Fiercest, Kion.”

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I too learned a lesson about myself.

After losing my feathers, I was too embarrassed to show my face to everyone. But thanks to the encouragement of my friends on the Guard as well as new friends I learned that feathers do not define the bird personality and impair my role in protecting the Pride Lands. And that’s what really matters.

Signed,

The Lion Guard’s Keenest of Sight, Ono.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Scar secretly commented as he watched the scene from afar to where he remained as he watched the entire scene unnoticed. “Because I too got what I wanted out of all of that. Because I wanted to find out more about Kion’s Roar.” He said to himself as he pulled up a small visual of Kion’s more controlled version of the roar along with the unicorn and lion’s combined attack as they worked together in defeating Makuu and his float along with the memory of secretly landing a hard blow on the queen from afar just when she had Janja and his clan beaten to push Kion into giving into his anger when using the Roar. “And it’s all thanks to you Twilight, because you helped me fully explore the full power of the Roar’s abilities to which I never even knew about up until now.” He added as he sinisterly grinned and chuckled before teleporting away.

Author's Note

In this episode, after Kion taps into the dark version of the Roar of the Elders, he vows never to use it again after destroying a small chunk of the Pride Lands and nearly endangering his mom with Twilight getting injured when she strains herself in using her magic in protecting and saving everyone from the Roar's backlash. But thanks to both Nala and Twilight's encouragement to trust himself, they both were able to snap him out of him as both Twilight and Kion work together while showing a new and more technique to defeat Makuu and his float without hurting their friends and family.

One little adjustment I made to this version is that Nala was actually holding her own against the hyenas here and didn't actually need help until she got hit by magic from behind to avert the Badass Decay she suffered in the show because it doesn't make sense that the lioness who tore apart Scar's hyena army would need help taking on Janja and his clan.

Both Kion and Ono learned a valuable friendship lesson together as the egret comes to learn that with his friend's support that looks don't define the bird himself but of what who he is deep down in the heart to which the events of Kion's arc for the episode all orchestrated by Scar himself as he wanted to learn more about the Roar so by the time they cross paths in this version of the story, he will be ready for whatever tricks Kion has up his paws in contrast to when they actually do meet later on in the series.

Next up is "Luna Eclipsed." where Princess Luna will have her turn in the spotlight when she makes her apperance at the annual Nightmare Night celebration.

Episode 5: Luna Eclipsed

Episode 5:

Luna Eclipsed

At the Golden Oaks Library, Spike currently in his purple dragon costume pacing in front of stairs where Twilight is currently changing into her costume for tonight’s Nightmare Night festival with the baby dragon starting to get a little impatient waiting for her get ready.

“Ugh, come on, Twilight. We're gonna be late for the Nightmare Night festival.” Spike complained as the unicorn finally came downstairs with her costume on.

She was wearing a night-sky blue robe over her body that had gold stars and light blue stars and gold bells with a matching large hat while wearing white beard on her chin.

“Nice.” Spike complimented. “And who are you supposed to be again?”

“I'm Star Swirl the Bearded! Father of the amniomorphic spell?” She answered.

“Star Swirl?” Spike questioned before it started to ring bells in his head. “Oh yeah, Right! Right!” He remembered as he pulled out the book that Twilight showed him from earlier. “Although you can’t blame me for not knowing right away. I mean the title of the book you showed is titled “Obscure Unicorn History.” Otherwise I would have assumed you were dressed as some kooky grandpa.”

“Okay then.” Twilight responded as she smirked deciding to turn this into her advantage. “Since you need to learn to respect your elders. You just volunteered to greet the ponies at the door all by yourself.” At that moment they heard a knock on the door. “Go on.”

“Dang it. Me and my big mouth.” Spike grumbled to himself as he moved to open the door where he is greeted to the friendly faces of three fillies.

“Nightmare Night! What a fright! Give us something sweet to bite!” They chanted as Spike presented the candy bowl with Twilight appearing to see what everyone else is wearing.

“Hi, everypony. Great costumes.” Twilight greeted everyone. “Happy Nightmare Night, Granny Smith.”

“I should have been asleep five hours ago.” She wearily complained with bagged eyes looking very worn out as she was the only pony nearby not wearing a costume.

Then a small colt with a white coat and brown hair wearing a pirate costume stepped forward as he waved his paper sword in the air before falling down face first into the ground.

“Pipsqueak the pirate, at your service. It's my very first Nightmare Night.” He greeted the two with a salute.

“Since you moved here from Trottingham?” Twilight asked.

“Yep, not only that, my very first Nightmare Night ever!” He added as Pinkie and Bunga appeared wearing chicken costumes.

“Enough chitchat! Time is candy!” Pinkie stated as she pecked her beak into the ground.

“Pinkie Pie, aren't you a little old for this?” Twilight asked finding it a little off and past her time.

“Too old for free candy?” Pinkie responded as she squawked. “Never.“

“And I’m still a kid too.” Bunga pointed out to his smaller chicken costume. “Along with the rest of the Lion Guard so it’s all good.”

Twilight rolls her eyes while acknowledging that the honey badger does have a point there as she gives everyone their candy before moving her costume while having the bells jingle.

“Do you like it?” She asked everyone.

“Yeah! Great costume, Twilight! You make a fantastic weirdo clown!” Pinkie cheerfully responded to which Twilight took offense to that.

“No, no, that’s Star Swirl the Bearded.” Bunga corrected.

“Exactly!” Twilight felt pleased to hear that. “Thank you!”

“No problem!” Bunga thought nothing of it as he, Pinkie, and the entire group walk off. “I always knew that all that searching through books I never even known about would actually pay off otherwise I too would have thought you were a clown too.”

“I almost thought she was wearing looking like a Grandpa!” Spike snickered to which is met with a glare from the unicorn as she marched off ahead into town.

On the way over she can’t help but wonder why Star Swirl the Bearded is hard to know and remember as if nopony knows about him.

The two then make their way towards town where they would meet up with the others who are joining in on the fun with new costumes so they can join in on the fun of Nightmare Night. All while the ponies and Pride Landers are all conversing with one another, Fuli on the other hand is sneaking around on the look out for some pony while trying to do trick-or-treating on her own before moving forward unnoticed.

“Star Swirl the Bearded is only the most important conjurer of the pre-classical era.” Twilight explained to Spike of why Star Swirl should be well-known. “He created more than two hundred spells! He even has a shelf in the Canterlot library of magic named after him.” She then thought of an idea to rectify that. “Maybe I should start up a pony group to teach ponies about history. I bet everypony would love it! Don't you, Spike?”

“That could work.” Spike agreed while munching on his candy as he had to stop himself just before he could nearly crash into Twilight.

“Hey look, we're here already! Should we get something to eat?” She then asked the baby dragon who belched from all the candy he ate on the way to which Twilight did not look pleased with him spoiling his appetite for dinner.

But just before Twilight could say anything about Kion arrived with the Cutie Mark Crusaders accompanying him. Kion was dressed as a tiger while the Cutie Mark Crusaders were all dressed as little tiger kitties.

“Hey, Twilight!” He greeted.

“Hey, Kion. Girls.“ She returned.

“Hey Twilight, Spike!” They greeted.

“How are you enjoying the celebration?” The unicorn asked.

“Pretty good so far.” He happily replied. “Other than these three fillies being a handful at times…” The girls sheepishly grinned hearing that because of how true it is. “…this night has been great so far. Been so far getting a lot of candy.” He presented their full candy buckets. “As well as having a lot of fun together.”

Just then Pinkie had appeared out of nowhere along with Bunga and the kids she has been watching over.

“Twilight, Kion!” She greeted as she presented her bag of candy filled completely to the brim. “Look at our haul! Ah! Can you believe it? And then, we went to Cheerilee's house, and got a bunch more goodies. Didn't we, Pip?”

“Sure did!” The pirate dressed filly replied as everyone is unaware that Rainbow wearing a dark version of a Wonderbolt costume or more accurately a Shadowbolt is sneaking up on them via a dark cloud.

“We would have been here sooner but we had to drop Granny Smith back home so she can rest and…” Bunga continued until he and Pinkie Pie were both startled by the shock from the lightning bolt before fleeing with the other fillies all fleeing the scene screaming.

Rainbow laughed in amusement at his prank feeling very proud of himself.

“Rainbow Dash, that wasn't very nice.” Twilight scolded the laughing Pegasus.

“You could have hurt somebody.” Kion also chided.

“Lighten up, old-timer and little tiger.” Rainbow said in response. “This is the best night of the year for pranks!”

“Look what you did to Spike!” Twilight pointed out to the passed out dragon.

“You nearly gave him a heart attack.” Kion added with a disapproving expression.

“It's all in good fun. Plus, nopony got hurt.” Rainbow dismissed their concerns certain that everyone is okay before turning her attention to another group to pull her prank on. “Oh! Oh! There's another group over there!”

The rainbow-maned pony quickly pushed her cloud over there and with a single zap she literally shocked them as they all screamed together to which Kion shook his head at.

At the same time, Fuli had witnessed this from afar before setting off in the direction she can trick or treat without running into Rainbow Dash.

“Well, I better catch up with the girls and make sure they don’t get lost.” Kion then said as he ran off ahead. “I’ll catch you later.” He added with a friendly smile before running off.

“See ya.” Twilight called after him as she picks Spike up with her magic onto her back as they press forward together.

Elsewhere, Applejack and Ono are both watching over the apple bobbing at the festival as Beshte and Mtoto are also there bobbing for apples by the time Twilight and Spike arrived.

Beshte had on a gray furred bear costume with a jolly looking appearance with Mtoto dressed as the grey-furred bear cub. Ono had on a red parrot costume that had an orange peak and blue feathers and wings.

“Happy Nightmare Night, Applejack, Beshte, Mtoto!” Twilight greeted as they approached them.

“Howdy, Spike! Hey, Twilight!” Applejack returned.

“Nice costume.” Beshte complimented.

“Thanks! I'm a dragon.” Spike happily returned.

“Cool!” Mtoto expressed as he eyed his costume. “But you’re a dragon?”

“That’s the idea.” Spike pointed out the joke.

“Oh, I get it!” Mtoto gasped as he chuckled.

“Obviously.” Applejack noted as she turned to Twilight’s. “So is yours.”

“Thanks.” She replied. “Have any idea who I am?”

“Is it some kind of magically wizard?” Beshte guessed.

“Yep.” She happily responded. “Hoof-stitched by myself.” She proudly added. “Although for some reason others keep mistaking it for someone else.”

“Must be tough.” Applejack sympathized. “But at least you were able to make yours by yourself while I had to get Rarity to design mine. Heck, Bunga was now getting the hang of sewing too.”

“Where is Rarity?” Twilight asked as she looked around for the unicorn. “She loves this holiday.”

“Still working on her costume.” The farm pony replied. “But hopefully she’ll join us soon enough. In the meantime, ya' feel like bobbin' for an apple?” She gestured to the tub as Carrot Tops and Derpy are both taking their turn.

Carrot Tops was about to bob for one with Derpy popped her head out of the tub and pulled what she thought was an apple but accidentally plugged the drain that emptied the tub out of the water.

“Aw nuts.” Applejack said in annoyance. “Looks like I gotta fill the tub again. Nice costume both of y’all.” She said to them as she went over to do so.

“That reminds me.” Beshte thought of something else. “I better check up on Fluttershy and see if I can get her to come.”

“Still holed up in her cottage?” Spike asked.

“Yep.” Applejack said as she plugged up the tub. “Ever since one pony decided to dress up as Nightmare Moon into giving her a heart attack while taking all of her candy.”

“That wasn’t very nice.” Twilight felt displeased that drove the poor girl into hiding in her home.

“It sure wasn’t.” Applejack didn’t like it either. “But no pony ever got a good look at his or her face and ever seen him or her since.”

“Typical coward.” Kyoga said in disgust at the nerve of some pranksters of how far they are willing to go for candy. “Anyways, good luck.”

“Thanks!” The hippo cheerfully replied as he walked on over there with Mtoto following him there.

At that moment that was a large crowd of ponies nearby cheering as Mayor Mare wearing a clown outfit addressed the crowd of ponies and Pride Landers gathered there.

“Thank you, everypony, and welcome to the Nightmare Night festival!” The mayor addressed the cheering crowd as Twilight and Spike walk over to the front of crowd where they spot Kyoga is already there.

“Hey Kyoga.” The unicorn greeted.

“Hey.” The lioness stoically greeted as she looked on while sporting black dyed fur.

“Dressing as a black cat are you?” Spike asked.

“Yep.” She replied not batting an eyelash.

“Here to see of what the holiday is like too?” Twilight asked.

“Yep.” She repeated as she glanced at Twilight. “Dressed as a wizard.”

“Yep.” Twilight simply returned.

“Spike’s a dragon?” She asked again.

“Yep.”

“Part of the joke?”

“Yep.”

“And you’re all here to hear the legend of Nightmare Moon too?” Spike asked.

“Yep.” She answered as the mayor continued her speech.

“Now, all the little ponies who have been out collecting sweets should follow our friend Zecora to hear the legend of... Nightmare Moon!” She spookily said the last part with attempted wicked laughter.

“Spooky voice might work better if she wasn't dressed like that.” Spike whispered to Twilight feeling she should tried something scary than a clown.

“You’re right about that.” Kyoga whispered back as Twilight giggled finding humor at the moment as Zecora makes her entrance using a brew of green mist from a potion she created who appeared wearing a black cloak and a white wig with spiders on it.

Seeing the cloak in question sparked sudden chills in Kyoga’s spine as if the vibes and senses seem familiar to her as if she has met the one behind a similar cloak too as the zebra leads everyone into the Everfree Forest where she directs everyone’s attention to a silver stone statue of Nightmare Moon.

“Follow me, and very soon, you'll hear the tale of Nightmare Moon.” She said to the children who are all shuddering at the sight of the villainous alicorn. “Listen close, my little dears, I'll tell you where you got your fears of Nightmare Night, so dark and scary.” She then blows some green dust into the air creating a green mist of Nightmare Moon. “Of Nightmare Moon, who makes you wary.”

The mist then flies over in the shape of the dark alicorn as she flies in deep towards the crowd which transformed into a green mist with a pair of eyes which spooked everyone even Kyoga as the green eyes looked very familiar. One with a black heart deep down.

“Every year, we put on a disguise, to save ourselves from her searching eyes.” Zecora said as the foals all scattered around screaming as Pipsqueak accidentally ran face first into the statue to which he nervously backed away in fear before accidentally bumping into an ostrich who just happened to be burying her head into the ground to which the two screamed and ran with the ostrich leaving behind an egg she laid.

Kyoga watching still had chills up her spine from seeing the green eyes as she nervously gulped to which Twilight took notice of.

“You okay?” She asked.

“Mmm-hmm.” She replied as she regained her composure why refusing to say more as Zecora continues speaking the tale while using the green powder to show more visuals of Nightmare Moon.

“But Nightmare Moon wants just one thing: to gobble up ponies in one quick swing! Hungrily, she soars the sky. If she sees nopony, she passes by. So if she comes and all is clear, Equestria is safe another year!”

“Uh, Miss Zecora…” Pipsqueak asked while lightly tugging on her cloak. “…if we wear costumes to hide from Nightmare Moon, so she won't gobble us up, how come we still need to give her some of our candy?”

“A perfect question, my little friend.” She replied. “For Nightmare Moon you must not offend.” She said as she blew more dust into the air to create another image of Nightmare Moon. “Fill up her belly with a treat or two, so she won't return to come eat you!”

The replica then launched towards the group and transformed into a green mist to which frightened everyone as Kyoga’s heart raced as she felt her heart rate pick up and ended up losing control of her magic shooting lightning into the sky from her bright white glowing eyes.

“Oops.” Zecora said seeing that worked a little to well as Kyoga drops to her knees with Twilight catching her before she can hit her head on the ground.

“Everypony! Just dump some candy and get out of here!” Pinkie screamed.

“Run for it!” Bunga added as he quickly gave him a good portion of his candy before getting the heck out of dodge along with every other pony as strong winds with strong clouds forming in the nighttime skies with a bright flashing light appearing from the sky as a chariot with a sinister horned figure wearing a black cloak rides on her mysterious chariot carried by two fast flying guard ponies wearing dark blue armor with bat-like wing armor to which further spooked everyone as everyone backs away with Twilight still holding onto Kyoga as she remained unconscious with Spike hiding behind the unicorn’s tail just as the chariot lowers in close towards the ground just floating above the ground

“It's Nightmare Moon! Run!” Pinkie gasped as everyone all screams and flees for their lives leaving Twilight and Kyoga behind with the former wondering who is the pony hiding under the cloak as everyone all made their way back to town just as the chariot flew towards town with Twilight still carrying Kyoga who is starting to come too just as the pony riding floats down to the ground.

She unveiled her cloak from her head to reveal herself as Princess Luna, the dark blue alicorn with bright blue magically sparkling hair similar to Celestia’s with matching blue eyes, along with a black crown and crest necklace with her black and white moon cutie mark image on it.

Everyone there all bowed in terror of her sudden appearance well expect for Twilight and Kyoga who are both awestruck at her.

“Princess Luna!” Twilight said as she started to move to go speak with her only to be pulled down to the ground by Spike.

“What gives?!” Kyoga demanded as Spike shushed them as the princess prepares to speak to everyone.

“Citizens of Ponyville! We have graced your tiny village with our presence, so that you might behold the real Princess of the Night! A creature of nightmares no longer, but instead a pony who desires your love and admiration! Together we shall change this dreadful celebration into a bright and glorious feast!” She shouted in a loud and a dramatic booming voice. A voice so powerful that wind was blowing around her.

Nobody said anything other than the dimwitted zebra who screamed…

“Panic and Run! Panic and Run!” before fleeing town back towards the portal to the Pride Lands while everyone just remain frozen before the alicorn princess made her way towards the groveling mayor with an extended hoof.

She reacted in offended surprise when she did nothing as she expected the mayor to kiss her hoof before quickly remembering her manners.

“Oh…” She said as she quickly kissed her hoof. “My apologies your highness, I was not expecting her arrival here.”

The princess then turned to all of the terrified citizens who all cower at her looming presence even when she means no harm.

“Please, children, no! You no longer have reason to fear us!” She pleaded with them as the small group of children all flee from her in terror. “Screams of delight is what your princess desires, not screams of terror!“ She added as turned to another group who still cover their eyes and tremble in fright.

“What is the matter with you?” She asked before leaving in the Everfree Forest’s direction in a huff. “Very well, then. Be that way. We won't even bother with the traditional royal farewell.”

“Looks like she behind her times.” Kyoga whispered to Twilight.

“Yep.” She nodded as she moved to follow her. “I’m going to go talk to her. Wanna come?” She offered to the lioness.

“Sure.” She replied as they both went after as Spike reluctantly accompanied them.

“Are you both sure about this?” Spike asked still worried. “Coming back here on Nightmare Night is doing little to help herself prove she has changed.

“Yes I’m sure.” Twilight answered firmly. “She just need some help adjusting from being gone for a thousand years as well as making new friends.”

“And for someone that has been separated from her only family for a long time I can relate to what she is going through.” Kyoga added with sympathy for the princess.

“What do you mean?” Twilight curiously asked.

“I’ll explain another time.” Kyoga quickly changed the subject. “Let’s just focus on helping her.” She said as she pointed to the alicorn kneeling in front of her statue looking rather sad and lonely just like Twilight when it seemed she would have to leave Ponyville and when her friends were corrupted by Discord fiddling with a single piece of candy left behind.

“Princess Luna?” Twilight greeted. “Hi, my name is-“

“Star Swirl the Bearded. Commendable costume! Thou even got the bells right.” Luna returned.

“Thank you! Finally! Somepony who actually gets my costume!” Twilight felt pleased as the others that she came across haven’t gotten the actual answer and those were close couldn’t figure who exactly aside from Bunga in a random moment of luck before getting back on track with Luna sporting a small saddened look upon seeing the pony she is dressed as. “Anyways, I just came to welcome you to our celebration! My actual name is-“

“Twilight Sparkle.” Luna answered correctly again before flapping her wings while speaking with her overly loud booming voice as dark clouds and winds formed around her. “It was thou who unleashed the powers of harmony upon us and took away our dark powers!”

“And that was a good thing, right?” Twilight asked as Luna returned to her normal voice.

“But of course. We could not be happier. Is that not clear?” She wondered why as if it should be an easy yes as she sharply spoke right in the unicorn and lioness’s faces as she flew over to them.

“Well, you kinda sound like you're yelling at me.” Twilight said as she slightly cringed from her tone.

“Rather loudly.” Kyoga added as she placed a claw in her ears to make sure her hearing is still working.

“But this is the traditional royal Canterlot voice!” She justified her use of tone. “It is tradition to speak using the royal "we", and to use this much volume when addressing our subjects!” She added as she shouted in her now booming tone to which moved the unicorn’s costume beard and hat from the force of the shout while blowing Kyoga’s tail back.

The former quickly readjusted her beard and hat while sporting a surprised expression as Kyoga’s tail lowered with her trademark stoicism.

“You know, that might explain why your appearance was met with... mixed results.” Twilight gently explained of why it probably didn’t go as she expected. “I think if you just changed your approach a bit, you might be met with a warmer reception.” She added as she placed a hoof on the necklace on her chest before quickly retracting upon realizing that she was getting a little touchy feeling with the princess.

“Change our approach?” Luna asked in her royal Canterlot voice right in the unicorn’s ear.

“By lowering the volume?” Kyoga clarified with a lowered paw to exemplify Twilight’s point.

“Ohhh.” Luna said in her normal tone of voice feeling a little awkward now. “We have been locked away for a thousand years. We are... not sure we can.” She remained uncertain as Twilight led the way over to Fluttershy’s cottage.

“Not a problem.” Twilight assured as she led the way out of the Everfree Forest. “We can help you out there.”

“I sure hope so.” Luna replied as she reluctantly presses forward while all ears with the unicorn’s help along with Kyoga accompanying them.

The four then make their way over to Fluttershy’s cottage with Twilight knocking on the front door

“Don't worry, Princess. Fluttershy can give you some great pointers. She's delicate and demure with the sweetest little voice.” She assured her just as Beshte answered the door.

“Hey everyone!” He happily greeted as they all heard Fluttershy’s voice from inside.

“Go away! No candy here! Visitors not welcome on Nightmare Night!“ She shouted.

“Fluttershy, it's me, Twilight and Kyoga!” Twilight called after her as she peaked her head out the door.

“It is you. Ah, and Kyoga, and Nightmare Moon. Nightmare Moon?” She suddenly gasped and quickly retreated when the last thing she said registered in her head.

“Wait right here.” Twilight kindly said to the princess as she went after her along with Beshte. "Fluttershy..."

“Is everything all right with her?” Luna whisper asked Kyoga and Spike.

“Normally, she’s fine with guests.” Spike replied. “Expect when it comes to Nightmare Night as ponies have often pulled pranks on her which crippled her self-esteem in coming out and really enjoying the holiday.”

“Is that why she is holing up in her cottage?” She asked.

“Yep.” He replied as the two manage to get Fluttershy out the door to greet the princess after a series of clattered pots and struggling.

“Fluttershy... Beshte… you two remember Princess Luna?” She asked as she held the Pegasus in her magic aura.

“Charmed.” The princess greeted with her Royal Canterlot voice to which sparked the intimidation in the poor girl’s heart as she tried desperately to scramble away but couldn’t because Twilight still had her in her grip.

“Likewise.” She timidly replied.

“Nice to meet you.” Beshte replied with a bow as Luna continued to speak in her Canterlot voice.

“Twilight Sparkle hath spoken of the sweetness of thy voice. We ask thou teachest to us to speak as thou speakest.”

“Okay.” Fluttershy quietly replied as her loud booming voice isn’t easing her nerves in the slightest.

“Shall our lessons begin?”

“Okay.”

“Shall we mimic thy voice?”

“Okay.”

“How is this?”

“Perfect, lesson over!” Fluttershy then said hurriedly as she moved to run back inside.

Twilight quickly shut the door in front of her with a prepared not giving up on her expression before she could get back inside with the Pegasus running face first into the door instead.

“A little quieter, princess.” Beshte then instructed her as he decided to take a turn in instructing the princess.

“How is...” Luna started in her royal Canterlot voice but then said in her honest normal voice. “…this?”

“Better. Right, Fluttershy?” Beshte replied before asking the Pegasus who then turned to face them.

“Yes.” Fluttershy replied still dazed and with nervous laughter.

“How... about... now?” Luna asked in her normal voice a little louder.

“Now you're getting it.” Twilight complimented.

“And... how about now?” She said with the perfectly normal measured tone of voice.

“Yes! Well done.” Twilight again complimented.

“Poa!” Beshte commended as Luna went over to thank them as she levitated them over for a hug.

“I thank thee, dear Fluttershy and Beshte! Our normal speaking voice shall surely win us the hearts of thy fellow villagers.” Luna thanked while so happy she ended up slipping back into her Royal Canterlot Voice.

But of course the moment got short-lived when Pinkie, Bunga, along with a group of children under their supervision just happened to show up at the worst possible time.

“Fluttershy! You've gotta hide us! Nightmare Moon is here and...” Pinkie began before she squawked the sight of the hug misinterpreting it for crushing her due to the princess hugging her tight. “Ah! She stole Fluttershy's voice so she can't scream when she gobbles her up!”

“Run for it!” Bunga screamed to everyone as they all run away.

“Nay, children, wait!” She shouted in her Royal Canterlot voice by mistake before quickly correcting herself. “I mean... nay, children, no, wait.”

But it was too late, they had already ran off leaving the princess upset by the reception created from that misunderstanding.

“Well done, Pinkie and Bunga, as always.” Kyoga remarked sarcastically.

“Yep.” Spike replied just as annoyed. “That’s Pinkie and Bunga all right.”

“Sorry.” Fluttershy regretfully said.

“Not your fault.” Beshte assured. “It was just a misunderstanding.”

“Thou wish they hadn’t happened.” Luna said feeling hurt they were quick to judge her like that.

“Phew.” Mtoto said as he regrouped with the Pegasus and hippo after going to the outhouse for some personal business. “What did I miss? Oh no.” He then sadly realized. “I didn’t miss the princess did I?”

“Not to worry.” Beshte assured with a smile. “We’ll see her again. Just as soon as we help Fluttershy.” He added as they gestured to the Pegasus quickly retreating in her cottage,

Even so, Twilight wasn’t about to give up on her just like that.

“Not to worry. Come on, princess. Time for plan B.” She positively said as they make their way back to Carousel Boutique where Rarity is said to still be working on her dress for the holiday.

“My friend Rarity, is the best when it comes to styling ponies with amazing garments! This is her boutique, Carousel Boutique.“ She explained to her just as they arrive where the unicorn knocks on the door to her shop.

“Go away!” Rarity screamed frantically. “No candies here, Preparation isn’t finished yet!”

“Ahaha…” Twilight began while taken aback by her sudden outburst as she clarifies who’s attempting to see her. “…Rarity…It’s me, Twilight….”

Hearing her voice calmed her down as she opened the door to greet her guests.

“Oh…it is you. Sorry, Twilight, Kyoga, Spike, Nightmare Moon.” She calmly greeted until her face froze in horror upon seeing the alicorn herself. “Nightmare Moon?!”

She quickly shut the door and retreated back inside.

“Um, excuse me one second.” Twilight politely said as she retrieved the unicorn and forced her out of the shop to greet the night monarch.

“Rarity…” Twilight began by placing a hoof on her chin to get her to relax. “This is Princess Luna, remember? Not Nightmare Moon.”

“Uh right…” Rarity then said still nervous in the face of the alicorn princess. “What can I do for you?”

“I know you are busy but I was just wondering if you could design the princess a dress to help make her look less intimidating.” Twilight asked.

“Hmm.” Rarity hesitated still quaking in terror. “I don’t know. I already got my hooves full with trying to get my dress all prepped up.” She pointed to her elegant dark blue and purple servant outfit along with a matching colored dress with spider webs on it.

“She is dressing for Nightmare Night or dressing for being Nightmare Moon’s servant?” Spike whisper asked Kyoga.

“Nightmare Night unless if we are accounting for an alternate timeline where that actually happens.” Kyoga dully replied.

“Please, Rarity?” She asked again. “You’d really be helping spread the magic of friendship by doing this generous gesture.”

Rarity seeing the pleading and eager buttoned up eyes the unicorn was giving along with being unable to go against her element couldn’t resist the offer.

“All right.” She relented with a kind smile. “For the princess.”

“Excellent.” Luna felt pleased as Rarity works her magic in sewing together a dress in just a short amount of time to which she personally rushed it a little due to be very stressed in the face of royalty along with trying to complete her final holiday costume all the while Spike lovingly gazes upon his crush as Kyoga pays no attention while keeping a paw on his tail to keep him from interfering with her work along with using this as an opportunity to hit on her at a very bad time.

She then fitted her in a pink dress with matching ribbons and hearts, with matching boots, with a rose and bowtie on her mane to which didn’t seem to like very well.

“Less intimidating?” Luna stoically asked.

“Not much.” Kyoga agreed with that notion with the same expression.

“Rarity? What happened?” Twilight asked.

“I’m sorry! I panicked!” Rarity apologized.

“Though this is a marvelous dress, we cannot wear it in public. We’ll have to take this off.” Luna expressed gratitude but declined to wear it anymore as she began to tear the dress off piece by piece.

“Sorry, Twilight.” Rarity said to her with regret.

“No, I’m sorry for coming on short notice…” Twilight voiced she should be apologizing just as Pinkie, Bunga, and the children came by again.

“Rarity! You gotta hide us!” Bunga called out to her.

“Nightmare Moon just gobbled up Fluttershy’s voice and…” Pinkie frantically added as she suddenly gasped upon catching Luna in the act of tearing apart her dress. “She even ate a princess! Not even royalty is safe!”

“Run for it!” Bunga screamed just as alarmed as everyone flees the scene.

“Neigh! Children wait! We have not done such a foul thing!” Luna desperately tried to call out to them to no avail.

“By the way Twilight…” Rarity said as she looked upon her costume. “Very nice costume, are you dressing as the oldest pony in the universe?”

“It’s Star Swirl the Bearded.” Twilight said rather irritated as the fashionista giggles in amusement as the group all presses forward as they all walk back to town where ponies and Pride Landers are dancing and playing games together…

…At least until everyone all stops and cowers before the princess when they see her arriving on the scene.

“At least now she has everyone’s attention.” Kyoga whispered to Spike at the now cowering ponies.

“Yeah, but not the attention she wants.” Spike noted that Luna isn’t happy with how everyone is reacting.

“Like I don’t know that.” Kyoga quipped to which Spike felt he walked his mouth thinking otherwise.

“Oops.”

“It is of no use, Twilight Sparkle. They have never liked us and they never shall.” The night monarch lamented.

“Maybe if Pinkie and Bunga would learn to quit misjudging her right off the bat.” Kyoga commented while finding it annoying herself as Twilight remained confident they will find a way to help the princess.

“My friend Applejack is one of the most likable ponies around. I'm sure she'll have some ideas.”

Said pony was currently helping Pipsqueak when he accidentally and nearly fell into the apple tub.

“Whoop. Careful there, partner.” She said to him as he ran off ahead just when the four approach her to which left them both startled by the princess’s appearance.

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed as he fainted and fell into the apple tub while Applejack fell to her knees while covering her eyes.

Luna’s stoic expression showed little change mirroring Kyoga’s as if the latter was silently saying “Seriously?” in her mind as Twilight kneels down to quickly smooth things over before Luna could feel further hurt.

“Uh... Applejack, the princess is looking for a little advice on how to fit in around here.” She told her.

“"Fit in"? Really?” Applejack asked in surprise to which is met with an annoyed grunt to give the cowgirl the hint as Ono quickly flies out the basket as he nearly drowned in the water there.

“Of course.” He replied very warmly. “My apologies.” He added with a bow of respect to her. “Fitting in is easy!”

“Yeah! All you gotta do is have the right attitude.” Applejack added as the two shared their words of advice.

“Loosen up a bit.”

“Be positive.”

“Play a few games.

“Have some fun.”

The two advised with positively.

“Luna: Fun? What is this "fun" thou speakest of?” Luna asked with a confused expression as Twilight, Applejack, and Ono gesture her to the nearby toy spiders. “Pray tell, what purpose do these serve?”

“Try to land the sp-sp-spiders on the web.” A cowed pony wearing a bee costume answered as she quaked in terror while covering her eyes as she points to the post with a set up spider web.

Luna picks up one of the rubber spiders and tosses it at the web only for it to fall short.

“You can do it, princess!” Applejack encouraged her to try again.

“Just a little higher and longer.” Ono advised with the same upbeat attitude.

Taking Ono’s advice to heart, she does just that as she manages to not only get it on the web, but manages to hit it right in the center much to her surprise she actually managed to quickly get the hang of it.

“Ha! Your princess enjoys this "fun"!” Luna expressed some delight in it as some of the ponies nearby came over very impressed with what she managed to pull off. “In what other ways may we experience it?” She wondered as she is directed to the pumpkin catapulting game where the aim is to fire the pumpkins onto the wooden targets across the field.

“Fire away, princess!” Twilight cheered for her as many ponies gathered to see her try it out.

As Luna pulls back and lets go of the catapult the pumpkin flies over the horizon towards the target where she managed to obtain another perfect bullseye to which everyone cheered for her.

“Ha ha! The fun has been doubled!” She exclaimed in delight.

“Hurray!”

“Why don't you try bobbin' for apples?”

“We got the best apples in Equestria here, princess.”

Applejack and Ono offered.

“I ask that thou call us... me... Luna, fair Applejack and Ono.” Luna humbly asked of her before asking the same from everyone around them. “Hear me, villagers! All of you! Call me Luna!”

Everyone all did so as it now seems that ponies are finally warming up to the younger princess as Twilight is feeling pleased that Applejack and Ono’s approach is working out with Spike and Kyoga following them as the young lioness begins to have a spark of sunshine in her heart seeing Luna starting to be finally accepted by everyone.

“Show me to these bobbing apples.” The princess eagerly asked as she sees Pipsqueak falling into the apple tub. Acting quick, she ran over to save him.

But once again, Pinkie and Bunga with the kids they were supervising show up once again to cross paths with her again.

“Hey, gals. Anypony seen Pip? We lost him the last time we had to run…” Pinkie began before she and Bunga saw her pulling the kid out of the tub.

“Aaah! Nightmare Moon is gobbling Pipsqueak! Run for it!” Bunga screamed to everyone as they all do so even Pipsqueak.

“Help! My backside has been gobbled!”

“Dang it! Why?” Kyoga exclaimed in frustration at their antics just when things were going right.

“'Tis a lie! Thy backside is whole and ungobbled, thou ungrateful whelp!” Luna snapped as she stomped her hoof with thunder accompanying it to which frightened the nearby fillies. “Fair villagers, please do not back away. Let us join together in... fun!” She then tried to recompose herself as she tossed the rubber spider towards them.

“Not enough fun for you?” She said seeing that she is not getting the response she wanted. “What say you to this?!” She then worked her magic infused with lightning to turn it into a real spider along with the other rubber spiders which spooked them all into running away again as a group of them crawled up to the center of the web.

“Huzzah! How many points do I receive?” She eagerly asked everyone still ran around screaming.

“Do not run away!” She pleaded with everyone as one of them crashed into a barrel of apples.

“As your princess, we command you!” She then tried to order them to no avail as they all continue to bump and crash into each other out of fright until she decided she’s had enough.

“Be still!” She shouted in her deafening Royal Canterlot voice which got everyone’s attention as they all stopped and froze in their tracks.

“Princess, remember! Watch the screaming!” Twilight tried to remind her.

“No, Twilight Sparkle!” Luna out of anger refused as her eyes glowed white. “We must use the traditional royal Canterlot voice for what we are about to say.” She then turned to everyone while floating up into the air while still speaking in the same tone with dark clouds surrounding her as she addresses everyone. “Since you choose to fear your princess rather than love her, and dishonor her with this insulting celebration, we decree that Nightmare Night shall be canceled! Forever!”

Needless to say this response and announcement frightened everyone even sparking shock in Kyoga’s heart as she was looking herself in the mirror seeing her public outburst and passed out after the shock became too much for her.

By the time, Kyoga came too following Luna’s outburst, she was being helped up by Kion as the Cutie Mark Crusaders all look on at the mess in shock.

“Kyoga!” Kion said to her as she woke up. “Are you okay?!”

“I’m fine…” She replied as she stood. “…what happened?”

“You passed out.” He told her as she rubbed the side of her head. “Twilight caught you before you could hit your head.”

“Again?” She asked as placed a paw on chest. “What is happening?” She wondered why she is having heart issues as they hear a voice call out to her.

“Kyoga!” Twilight called out to her as she came over to him. “Oh, thank goodness you’re okay!”

“Twilight!” Kion returned to the unicorn. “What happened and why are ponies upset hearing that Nightmare Night is canceled?”

“Because Princess Luna canceled it herself.” Twilight answered with a disappointed sigh. “After she couldn’t take ponies constantly running away and shaking in fear of her every time she tries to greet them.”

“Did she really?” Apple Bloom wondered.

“Yeah.” Twilight solemnly replied. “I spent all night trying to help her adjust to current times and every time when things were going great, Pinkie and Bunga show up and cause a scene that ended up making things worse.”

“That’s sad!” Sweetie Belle commented with pity.

“That’s sure gotta be frustrating. The princess just can’t get a break tonight.” Scootaloo agreed.

“I know.” Applejack added. “We had everything goin' our way. Luna was happy, everypony in town was happy, now look at 'em.” She pointed to the saddened children all being comforted by their parents.

“But I wanted to be a zombie next year.” A blond filly wearing a light purple dress cried.

“It's not over yet.” Twilight stated still not giving up on her.

“What are you gonna do?” Applejack asked.

“I'm going to do what I do best. Lecture her!” Twilight answered as she stood proudly.

“Um…actually…” Kyoga spoke up wanting to voice her input on the matter. “…can I come and talk to her too?”

“Why?” She asked.

“Remember the Grand Galloping Gala?” She brought up.

“Yeah?” She wondered she is going with this.

“Well, while everyone was busy there, I came across and met with her before and together we both shared of what it is like to be separated from our loved ones and having to be gone for some time.” She answered.

“Really? How old were you when it happened?” Twilight asked feeling surprised to hear this.

“I was only a cub when it happened.” Kyoga answered as she sadly sighed.

“Oh…” Twilight just said almost speechless. “I see.”

“Yeah.” She replied as she tried to keep her emotions in check. “I wasn’t as old as Luna when it happened but I understand her pain and I relate to her very well.”

“Sure thing.” She accepted. “The more the merrier.”

The two then ran off ahead and looked around for her until they both spotted her sadly walking across the small bridge over a small stream of water.

“Princess?” Twilight called out to her.

“Leave me be, Twilight Sparkle.” She despondently replied as she is on the verge of crying as she voice slightly cracked.

“Princess, I'm sorry it hasn't worked out how we wanted.” She apologized as she then tried to explain. “But you have to believe me when I tell you that Nightmare Night is one of the most popular celebrations we have.”

“Yes. I can tell. By all the adoring shrieks of the children as they run away.” Luna bitterly remarked as she continued to walk away.

“That came out wrong.” Spike said to himself as Kyoga quickly ran in front of her to stop her from leaving.

“Princess...” Kyoga calmly began. “…I’m sure they didn’t mean to upset you. They were just scared and have yet to adapt to the fact that you are no longer Nightmare Moon.”

“I thy appreciate the effort…” Luna began as she stopped to listen to her. “…It’s no use. Every time I try to prove I have changed something always comes up that makes thou say otherwise.”

“Maybe we need to try again.” Kyoga advised. “But this time we go after the head pony and honey badger to tell them so they’ll tell everyone else the same thing.”

“But how are we going to get them to do that since thou always run away every time we see them?” Luna wondered.

“Easy.” Twilight answered as she and Kyoga share a knowing smile of how they can bait and draw the two towards them.

Back in town as everyone is still distraught by what happened earler, Pinkie and Bunga were drawn to candy laying around on the ground.

Predictably, the two were never ones to pass down free candy as they followed and ate the trail down towards the nearby alley where Twilight and Kyoga quickly ambushed them as they both quickly place paws and hooves over their mouths.

“No! No shrieking. No screaming or squealing either. Okay?” Twilight demanded of them.

“Okay.” The two replied through their muffled voice.

“Now we’re going to let go of your lips.” Kyoga sternly began. “And when we do you’re going to cooperate with what we ask of you. Understand?”

“Mm-hmm.”

“Good, now, there's something I want you two to see. And I promise that it's safe, but you really, really, really can't shriek. Do you promise not to shriek?” Twilight then said and asked of them.

“Mm-hmm.”

As soon as they let go of their lips, Princess Luna approached them to which they nearly screamed and shrieked until Kyoga glared at them with a threatening growl.

“Pinkie Pie, you remember Princess Luna, right?” Twilight introduced her to them.

“Ah. The ringleaders of the frightened children.” She said as she glared at them until she then dropped it into a hopeful smile. “Hast thou come to make peace?”

She offered her hoof in forgiveness, as both Pinkie and Bunga both were initially hesitant at first but the two then warmly smiled too as they both reached out for her hoof.

But just inches away before they could do it, Kyoga noticed a dark cloud courtesy of Rainbow approach from behind the alicorn as she had it produce lightning to illuminate her face with a bright white glow in the shadows to which spooked both Pinkie and Bunga out.

“Nightmare Moon!” The two screamed as they quickly tried to make their escape.

“Rainbow!” Twilight scolded as she quickly teleported in front of Pinkie and Bunga to tackle them to the ground before they could escape the alley while Kyoga had her eyes glow white as she striked Rainbow with a bolt of lightning with her magic from behind which scared her into fleeing the scene.

“Unbelievable!” Kyoga exclaimed getting fed up with these last second spanner in the works against them at this point.

“The one time Pinkie doesn’t do anything, Rainbow just happens to be there.” Spike expressed the same sentiment yet more annoyed than angered like Kyoga.

“She's changed, Pinkie and Bunga! She's not evil or scary anymore!” Twilight restrained the two as she forced her to understand that. “And she definitely doesn't want to gobble you up!”

“Well, duh.” Bunga replied.

“Huh?” Twilight and Kyoga said in unison as she and Kyoga shared the same expression at his reply.

“Of course we know that. Sheesh, Twilight. I'm almost as big as her, how's she gonna gobble me up?” Pinkie added.

“So why do you two keep running away and screaming?” Kyoga asked if that’s so.

“Sometimes it's just really fun to be scared!” Pinkie replied.

“Yeah, it’s all part of the holiday spirit.” Bunga added as the girl’s frowns didn’t fade because of all of the trouble that had occurred through Luna’s efforts to prove otherwise.

“Well even so, your antics tonight have made it very hard for the princess who is trying to prove to everyone that she truly has changed as well as well preventing the princess from trying to make new friends as well.” Twilight then reprimanded them for that.

“Not to mention it ended up getting Nightmare Night canceled.” Kyoga added as she scolded them.

“Really?” Pinkie asked in surprise hearing that as she turned to an equally surprised Bunga. “That wasn’t our intent.”

“Yeah, all we were just doing was just stirring up some screams and laughs, we never meant to hurt her or anybody else.” Bunga then explained himself as he immediately regretted causing that to happen.

“Well you two did.” Kyoga bluntly pointed out to the downcast princess looking on the equally upset citizens of Ponyville along with the young Pride Landers.

“I believe you two now have something to say to the princess?” Twilight then expected an apology from them to which they quickly and remorsefully do so.

“Sorry?” They both apologized in unison to the night monarch.

“Shall we try this again?” Luna asked as she offered her hoof in forgiveness.

The two then both shake her hoof separately as they take turns with Pinkie going first with Bunga following after her.

“So, uh, all is forgiven?” Bunga nervously asked with his hands behind his back now as he trailed his eyes towards the ground.

“Indeed they are.” Luna returned while sporting a small thankful smile to which both let out a sigh of relief upon hearing that before turning to the others who now have satisfied smiles. “So now what shall we do about everyone else?” She asked.

“I think we can arrange a solution for that.” Twilight said as expressed confidence once again that this proposal will work for certain. “Because thanks to these two geniuses I have a plan.”

“Wow, Twilight. You are such a flatterer.” Bunga laughed it off. “But we all know we’re not that smart.”

“Me too and I'm a chicken.” Pinkie added with another squawk.

“Anyways…” Twilight said as she turned back to the kneeling princess. “Princess Luna! I've finally figured out why you're having so much trouble being liked!”

“Forgive me if I withhold my enthusiasm.” She replied with a deadpan expression and tone as Twilight gestured her to follow her while letting some of the other adults along with the rest of the Guard know so they can be in on the plan as well.

“Come with me. I'll explain everything on the way.” Twilight said as everyone follows after her back to the statue in the Everfree Forest.

Back in town as the adults help clean up the aftermath, Kion and Beshte are both comforting the children there.

“Gosh. I never thought my very first Nightmare Night would be my very last.” Pipsqueak lamented.

“Me neither.” Beshte expressed as he tried to help them feel better. “Maybe Princess Luna has had time to herself to change her mind about.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed as he leaned down to the filly. “I’m sure she didn’t truly mean what she said back.”

“Exactly.” Zecora also assured as she walked over to him. “Now come, little Pip. Now don't you fret. Nightmare Night's not over yet. We still have candy left to give, so Nightmare Moon might let us live.”

“Yes. Come on, little ponies.” Mayor Mare walked over with the same idea as she walked over to help cheer them up. “What's Nightmare Night without the annual candy offering? You don't want Nightmare Moon to gobble you up, do you?“

“Aw, the rainbow wig just kills it for me.” Spike complained and whispered to Twilight and Kyoga as they walk by watching the scene.

“No kidding.” Kyoga remarked as the cow girl went over to encourage the kids to go there too.

“Come on, kids! Doesn't that sound like fun?”

The fillies with the adults and the Guard watching over all walk over back to the statue of Nightmare Moon where all of the children place their candy offerings in front of the princess’s statue one last time.

“Goodbye, Nightmare Night. Forever.” Pipsqueak sadly said as he dropped off his candy before walking off only to be stopped by the cheetah wearing a golden fur and brown spotted leopard costume placed a stopping paw on his chest.

"Not so fast." She said to him leaving him confused with why he should but just before he could walk off a deep familiar booming voice is heard.

“Citizens of Ponyville! You were wise to bring this candy to me. I am pleased with your offering. So pleased that I may just eat it... instead of eating you!” Nightmare Moon in the flesh and voice appeared before everyone as all of the children all scream before turning back into her original appearance as Princess Luna.

“I am not certain that did what you meant for it to do, Twilight Sparkle.” Luna voiced her uncertainty as she spit out the fake teeth.

“Just wait.” Twilight assured.

“For what?” Luna asked as she stepped down from the pedestal. “For... for them to scream some more?”

“Um... Princess Luna.” Pipsqueak asked as she tugged on the princess’s mane to get her attention as she and Mtoto appear before her. “I know there's not gonna be any more Nightmare Night, but do you suppose maybe you could come back next year and scare us again anyway?”

“Child. Art thou saying that thou... likest me to scare you?” Luna replied in surprise along with seeing the other children just as eager and wanting the same too.

“It's really fun! Scary, but fun!” Mtoto happily replied.

“It... is?”

“Yeah! Nightmare Night is my favorite night of the year.” Pipsqueak added in delight to which sparked a smile in the princess’s heart and smile.

“Well then. We shall have to bring…” She then said in her royal Canterlot voice. “Nightmare Night back!”

The force of the voice slightly pushed the two back as Mtoto had his body planted in the ground to keep them from sliding more than a few inches.

“Whoa! You're my favorite princess ever!” Pipsqueak felt very pleased as he ran over and wrapped his arms around her hooves.

“Mine too! She said yes, guys!” The happy elephant said to the other’s as they all cheer pleased just as Twilight and Kyoga walk up to the princess.

“See? They really do like you, princess.” The unicorn said to her.

“Can it be true?” Luna was still touched to the core seeing and feeling what she has never in a thousand years. “Oh, most wonderful of…” She expressed her delight in her royal Canterlot voice before quickly correcting herself. “I mean... Oh, most wonderful of nights.”

With Nightmare Night back on and with the Guard’s help in cleaning up the mess in the aftermath of the princess’s earlier outburst, everyone was all back to having fun together.

During the celebration, Princess Luna was also having fun as she continued playing the spider toss game as Pipsqueak and Mtoto along with their friends come over to give her candy as thanks for bringing the holiday back to them. During which she pulled a playful scare from the apple bob bucket as she surprised a pony wearing a mouse costume who fell back at first before laughing it off finding it funny as the princess munched on an apple. Even Fluttershy, after some encouragement was able to get in on the fun and started to overcome her fear over the holiday.

All while this was happening Twilight took the time to compose a friendship letter to the princess about it.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

When you first sent me to Ponyville, I didn't know anything about friendship. I met somepony tonight who was having the same problem -- your sister, Princess Luna! She taught me that one of the best things you can do with friendship is to give it to others, and help them find it themselves! And I'm happy to report that all of Ponyville has learned that even if somepony seems a little intimidating, even scary, when you offer them your friendship, you'll discover a whole new pony underneath. And even if my Star Swirl the Bearded costume didn't go over, this still turned out to be the best Nightmare Night ever!”

“It sure was!” Kion agreed as he placed a paw on her back to congratulate her for what she and Kyoga did tonight. “Well done you two!”

“Thanks!” Kyoga returned just as Fuli came to greet them just as Rainbow Dash eager for payback and to be able to prank Twilight attempts to strike lightning at the three of them…only to be greeted by a powerful shock herself which sent the Pegasus screaming and flying away.

The two leaders turned to Kyoga who shakes her head to let them know it wasn’t her this time as Princess Luna on a nearby dark cloud from behind reveals herself as the one who actually did it as she lowered down to the ground at winked at the three to let them know she has their back now before the five all share a happy laugh together.

“And well done, princess!” Kyoga feeling pleased with seeing the prankster pony getting what was coming to her in the end.

“Sure must quite be a shock there.” Spike commented.

"Sure is." Fuli couldn't agree more before turning to the princess. "And thanks Princess Luna. I really owe for finally getting her off my back because it sure is hard to trick or treat and dodge Rainbow's lightning bolts at the same time."

"You're welcome." Luna warmly returned. "And thanks for helping me."

"No problem!" She thought nothing of it. "Even with Rainbow trying to prank me back I wouldn't miss helping a friend in need. Even if I have to bolt around a bit." She added feeling pleased she evaded the prankster's radar once again before sharing another hearty laugh with the others together as they all enjoy the rest of their night together.

Author's Note

For this episode, Princess Luna gets her turn in the spotlight as she makes her return to Ponyville in time for Nightmare Night.

Although her timing and being a fish out of water for thousand years did little to help her case to the point Twilight and Kyoga stepped in to help her fit in more but not without having to deal with many obstacles throughout the night that led to the holiday nearly being canceled as a result.

Added things to adjust was added reason for Fluttershy's dislike of the holiday along with Rarity's appearance in the episode with everything working out in the end.

Next up is "Sisterhooves Social." where Rarity and Sweetie Belle's sibling relationship is the focus in this upcoming episode.

Episode 6: Sisterhooves Social

Episode 6:

Sisterhooves Social

At the Carousel Boutique’s upper room was where Rarity was sleeping with her nice mask on her eyes sleeping peacefully.

“Oh... Are those sweet... carrot... pancakes I smell? Mmm, how divine, num num num num. The aroma... spiced warm apple cider.” She said in her sleep as she sniffed black smoke coming inside her room. “ Ahh, and, the smell of... smoke... smoke? Smoke?!” Rarity then suddenly woke up as she realized there is indeed real smoke in her own house and heard the smoke detector in her house go off.

She quickly and blindly scrambled out of bed only to fall off of her hooves when she got tangled in her bed covers which caused her to stumble and fall down the stairs towards the kitchen where she came across her little sister Sweetie Belle in a poor attempt to cook breakfast as her burning pot is the source of the black smoke.

“Rarity! Rrgh, you ruined the surprise! I was gonna serve you breakfast in bed!” Sweetie groaned in annoyance as Rarity could only sigh in response to her little sister’s kind efforts to please her.

Taking off her night mask, she makes her way over to Sweetie Belle with some words to say until he heard a pony who was in the building speak up…

“Well! G'mornin', Rarity!” A colt with a white-gray coat, blue eyes, a short brown mane and tail, with a blue beach with flowers shirt, a yellow straw hat, and a three football cutie mark on his flank greeted who had a pink furred coat mare with a large purple and blue mane, light blue eyes, wearing a red beach shirt, and white pants accompanying him.

“Father! Mother!” She reacted with alarm seeing their unexpected appearance.

“I'll have you know that Sweetie Belle here cooked this yummy lookin' breakfast all on her own.” He explained as he patted his youngest daughter’s mane while his other daughter looked at the burnt display.

“I... figured.” Rarity said with a forced smile as she sniffed something. “I didn't know you could burn juice.”

“I've been giving her lessons. I wouldn't be surprised if she's got a cutie mark in fancy cooking by the time we get back from our vacation.” The mare explained to her eldest daughter.

“Vacation? Is that this week?” Rarity asked in sudden shock. “As in 'starting this very instant' this week?! Uurh. Let me guess: apple sauce?” She then asked as her little sister presented her a bowl of black liquid.

“Nope. Toast!” Sweetie corrected as she expressed her sudden excitement. “We're gonna have the bestest time two sisters could ever have! I'm gonna go grab my stuff from Dad's wagon.”

“So, now, when you say 'a week'... is that, um, seven whole days?” Rarity nervously asked to make sure she heard correctly.

“And six nights, I know!” Her mother confirmed. “Such a short time to spend with your little sis.”

“You gonna eat that?” Her father asked as he eyed the burnt orange slices to which she let him have them.

“But I've got such a long to-do list.” Rarity tried to insist she’s busy before relenting. “Oh well, I suppose 'spend time with your sister' will just have to be added to the list.”

Just then, her little sister came inside with a load of luggage in tow.

Like sister, like sister, it runs in the family.

“Just a few necessities.” She happily replied as her older sister once again put up a forced smile for the sake of their parents as it is clear that Rarity is in for a week she’ll never forget.

As soon as their parents left, Rarity tended to the matter in the kitchen.

“Now, let's get that kitchen all cleaned up.” Rarity said.

“Cleaned up?” Her sister replied in confusion. “But we haven't even eaten yet.”

“Well now, Sweetie Belle, I appreciate the gesture, but we simply can't eat this breakfast; it's burnt.” Rarity explained it politely to the best of her ability.

“It's not that burnt.” Sweetie voiced otherwise while a little oblivious to the obvious evidence in front of her.

“Never fear, my dear, I'll get a proper breakfast going.” Rarity replied as she made way as she gathered what she needed to do so.

“Can I help?” Sweetie offered.

“Oh, er, of course, er, in one moment, Sweetie Belle.” She replied rather hesitatingly more leaning on wanting her to just stand still. “Let me just get things started.”

Rarity then got to work in cleaning up the mess along with properly preparing their food along with setting the table all the while her little sister was growing more and more anxious as the seconds turns into minutes with her eager smile fading by the minute.

“Rarity! I thought you said I was gonna help!” Sweetie reminded and pleaded.

“You are!” She positively replied after having a somewhat mixed guilty and still not wanting her assistance expression. “You... can... put the garnish on the plates.” She pointed to the one small parsley on the counter to which Sweetie leaned over towards

“You mean this parsley?” She asked as her older sister nodded as she walked over to the table where Rarity has set up two plates of two eggs over easy dishes for them to enjoy.

“Okay, now, easy!” Rarity instructed her with in between back and forth responses as Sweetie tries to get what she wants. “It has to be just right! No need to rush. No! That's too slow. Careful! Back up! Looking for perfection here...”

But as a result of the growing confusions she ends up losing her balance and caused the table to fall over and make a mess onto the floor much to Rarity’s dismay.

On the bright side the plates of eggs remained intact with the paisley landing on one of them at just the right touch on them.

After salvaging and having their breakfast, the two then cleaned the kitchen up again to which required a handful of towels and rags and by the time they were done it was already two o’clock in the afternoon.

“There are some things I must attend to.” Rarity said as she turned to her little sister with the dirty laundry. “Can you take the dirty towels to the laundry room?” She asked of her.

“No problem, I'll make myself useful!” She happily replied as she set out to do so.

She went over to the laundry room where everything she needs to do her job is all set up. And when she got there she spotted a pink and purple sweater that she thinks could also use a good wash and drying too.

When Rarity came back the back entrance to the shop she noticed that her little sister was putting the laundry on the drying hanger and found something there she didn’t like.

“Sweetie Belle!” She exclaimed as she trotted outside.

“I told you I'd make myself useful. Surprised?” Sweetie replied feeling pleased with herself and eager for her sister’s approval

“Am I?” Rarity voiced otherwise with lowered ears as she walked over to the sweater she washed and hung up while unintentionally ignoring her little sister’s hard work. “You washed my incredibly expensive one-of-a-kind designer crocheted wool sweater! Do you know how hard these things are to come by?”

“What's the big deal?” Her sister asked.

“The big deal is that in the heat of the sun, wool... shrinks.” She answered as her sweater did just that.

“Oh. Sorry.” She apologized as the older unicorn expression twitched with restrained anger before switching back over to her pleasant and cheerful demeanor.

“Well. Back to work. I must create!”

She moved to head back inside only to accidentally step into the water bucket with just one hoof step forward.

“Sorry?” She apologized for that inconvenience.

“Stay out of trouble, okay? Please?” She asked of her before walking back inside.

“I just wanted to do something nice for my sister.” The younger unicorn grumbled in disappointment as she pushed the bucket of water back inside.

To her, all of the hard work was miffed because of an accidental mistake she didn’t even know about until too late even when she apologized.

Later when she retreated to her design and dressing room she groaned as she really wants to be able to spend time with her older sister.

“Raargh, I'm so bored! When is Rarity gonna finish her work?” She wondered as she groaned and crawled around after bouncing aside a ball of yarn as her last words ring through her mind before eyeing the nearby colored paper and markers on the table.

“I never got in trouble for drawing.” She thought of what she can do as she picked up a marker and starting drawing. “Hmm.” She then thought. “This needs something...”

She was then drawn to her attention to the blue gems in a nearby chest to where she gets creative and artistic inspiration from them.

Shortly after she was done, her older sister came into the room with a cloth and a pair of scissors to where she is suddenly greeted by her eager sister presenting her of her artistic creation.

“Hi, Rarity! I made a special drawing for y—“ She started only for it to be met with a horrified scream as she runs over to the chest to where she got the gems which was now empty.

“Oh no! Did you use these gems?!” She frantically asked as she showed her the empty chest as apparently her sister had used every last gem she had in that chest.

“Well, yes…” She honestly and apologetically answered. “…but I know you have more in your work room…”

“But, but these are extremely rare baby blue sapphires! I need them for an outfit for an extremely important client!” Rarity expressed very upset with what she has accidentally done again.

“Oh. Sorry.” She apologized on her hoofs and knees begging for forgiveness upon realizing her mistake again.

“Sweetie Belle, what am I going to do with you?” Rarity asked with a sigh.

“Oh! We could paint together, we could ride bikes, play chess, sing a song, catch frogs, pillow fight…” She happily replied and hopped around her older sister while misunderstanding the point she was trying to get her to come across.

“That's not what I meant!” She irritably quickly corrected.

“Oh.”

“Now I have to go and find some more of these gems!” She then complained.

“I'll go with you and help!” Her sister offered.

“No!” Rarity exclaimed to which saddened her little sister. “No thank you.” She quickly corrected herself after regaining her composure while gesturing to the table of her laid spread. “You can help by picking up these papers and stacking them, neatly. Put the pens and pencils back exactly where you found them, and please find something to do that doesn't create a large mess for me to clean up!”

Rarity then left leaving the poor girl upset that even drawing something for her lands her in hot water.

“Geez Louise, can't I do anything right?” She sadly lamented as she walked off to do so until she came across her inspiration room which was a complete mess.

Getting the idea while certain this was something that even Rarity can’t get mad at for her she walks in and tidy’s the place.

“Sweetie Belle! I'm back!” Her older sister greeted as she returned with more gems in stock. “Sweetie Belle?” She called out for when she didn’t get a response as she looks in her inspiration room and then gasps in shock at what her little sister has done.

The place was clean, tidy, spotless, with all of the mannequins and hanging around fabric all clean and folded into place

“Surprise!” She greeted her sister as she once again was baffled in the bad way at what she transformed her study room into.

“My inspiration room! What did you do? What did you do?!”

“When I saw the big mess in your room, I thought I'd clean it up for you.” Sweetie explained with a bright grin

“This wasn't a mess! It was organized chaos!” Rarity stated otherwise very upset with what she did to her room. “I was just about finished planning my new fashion line, and, and you, you, you went and, and you— and you put everything away!”

“But every time I make a mess, you get upset!” Sweetie argued back.

“But this was my mess in my house!” Rarity argued back as she is now trying her hardest not to blow up at her as she sat her flank onto the ground. “And now I have to start from scratch!”

“But, I thought it would make you happy!” Sweetie apologetically said to her older sister with only her best interests at heart.

“Happy?! Happy?! I—“ She replied as she nearly exploded at her little sister until she grinded her own teeth to control herself again. “I just need some time alone.“ She calmly replied before letting out an upset huff as her younger sister sadly walked out feeling dejected over the fact she managed to strike out in her attempts to please her sister.

Sweetie would then walk out into town all the while feeling distraught as she came across her friend Apple Bloom who held a flyer in her mouth before setting it aside for a moment so she can talk to her.

“How's the sleepover at Rarity's goin'?” Her friend asked her.

“Why, it's smashing!” Sweetie bitterly replied which mimicking her sister to the T leaving her friend confused.

“Huh?”

“I just wish we could do something special together that didn't include me goofing anything up.” She sadly lamented a she sat down at the nearby statue as nearby flyers are spread around the area.

“The Sisterhooves Social!” Apple Bloom quickly presented her friend with an golden opportunity with the flyer she was carrying around. “Applejack an' I do it every year! You an' Rarity can compete against other sister teams in all these neat events!”

“That sounds like the perfect way for us to hang out!” Sweetie immediately whole-heartedly agreed with the idea. “Rarity will think it's an excellent idea.”

But when she proposed the idea her reaction was quite the opposite of what she expected.

“What a ridiculous idea. A contest at Sweet Apple Acres? It doesn't sound... very... clean.” She said not even looking at her little sister nor wanting to discuss the topic further.

“So, what, now you're back to hating messes?” Her sister irritably asked.

“Sweetie Belle, watch your tone!” She scolded as she walks off ahead. “I am still your big sister.”

“Right! And any sister who cares about her sister goes!” Sweetie further argued to which is met with her sister still trying to get press forward with her work.

“Sweetie Belle...! Honestly! Playing silly little games in the dirt is just... uncouth! With or without a sister.” She refused still not even batting an eye towards the filly nor willing to be open to the subject to which was the last straw for the filly who was been nothing but good to her.

“Well then! Maybe, maybe I'll try the Sisterhooves Social without a sister! In fact, I think I'll try the rest of my life without a sister!” She openly denounced her sister to which she gasped completely hurt by that statement.

“Oh, I'm the one who's ruining your life?! Really?!” She fired back as they got into each other’s faces. “Have you looked around this place? I'm the one who'd be better off with no sister!

“Well it looks like we finally agree on something! Neither of us needs a sister!”

“Deal!”

The two yelled at each other as Sweetie storms out of the room while Rarity simply huffs as her cheeks turned a shade pink in steamed up anger.

“Deal! Goodbye, un-sister!” She shouted as she slammed the down as she leaves with her older sister simply huffing again before continuing with her work.

After their falling out, Sweetie Belle then retreated to Sweet Apple Acres where she came across Kion and Beshte there helping out the Apple family with their chores. Once there she explained everything that had happened ever since their parents went on vacation.

“Oh hey Sweetie Belle!” Beshte greeted as he finished putting aside the hay that he was lifting on his back. “How’s it going?”

“Just fine.” Sweetie just said rather disappointed and hurt as Kion was quick to take notice of.

“Everything okay?” He asked looking concerned for her. “Because it sure doesn’t seem like everything is fine.”

“What did your sister say?” Apple Bloom asked about her reply to the Sisterhooves Social. “Did she say yes?”

“No.” She dejectedly replied as she laid on one of the bales of hay. “She said it was uncoth.”

And needless to say the two along with Applejack and her sister were rather surprised to hear of that.

“‘Uncouth'? She said the Sisterhooves Social was 'uncouth'?” Applejack asked sounding very offended as she let go of the hay bale she was dragging before leaping over it.

“Yeah! Uncouth?” Apple Bloom also replied as she munched on an apple as she popped her head out of the bucket while belching to which Kion turned aside a little disturbed as if she was already answering her own question with the way she was eating. “Wait. What's uncouth?” She asked as Kion held out a paw to stop her from spitting apple bits into his face unintentionally.

“I think you just answered your own question there.” Kion replied before defining it for her. “In her words, uncivil and bad mannered.” Apple Bloom burped after gulping down the apple she just swallowed.

"Exactly!" Her older sister proudly remarked.

“It's not just the Social. She thinks I'm uncouth.” Sweetie Bell further added feeling disheartened by what her sister said to her earlier.

“Why do you say that?” Kion asked.

“Apparently everything I do is to her.” Sweetie responded as Applejack stepped forward to ease her mood.

“Honey, Rarity thinks everything's uncouth.” Applejack voiced that it’s just part of Rarity’s taste rather than what she thinks of just as Apple Bloom burps loudly.

“Surely, Rarity does care for you deep down.” Kion added to assure her.

“Exactly.” Applejack agreed as she and her little sister got together. “Sweetie Belle, just give Rarity some time. She'll come around. Sisters always do.”

“Not sisters like Rarity.” Sweetie bitterly remarked.

“Come on, now.” Applejack urged the down filly to cheer up. “Apple Bloom and I got some chores to finish up on. Maybe you along with Kion and Beshte can help!” She then offered.

“You sure you want me to help? I just mess everything up!” Sweetie responded unsure about it.

“I wouldn’t say that.” Beshte encouraged. “There’s lots of stuff around here that you can definitely be a huge help around here. I mean how hard can it be to find something to do around here and actually mess up?”

“And whatever Rarity might have said to you is just stinkin' thinkin'.” Applejack agreed. “Watch!”

The two sisters demonstrated as the elder sibling picked up a bruised apple with a worm in it to which her younger sister quick caught in the barrel while giggling together.

“Good catch there, Apple Bloom!“ Applejack complimented as she used her tail to send more apples her way while the others watch with Sweetie Belle looking surprised as if she has never seen this kind of before as Kion does the same with Beshte while they both have fun doing so.

“This is a chore?”

“Since we can't sell the bruised apples, we gotta collect them all for the pigs to eat.” Applejack explained.

“It's a lot of work, so we make a game of it. Wanna try?” Apple Bloom offered.

“Um, okay. Ow!” She reluctantly accepted to which she suddenly has an apple landing right through her horn accidentally by Applejack.

“Oops, sorry there, sugarcube.” She quickly apologized. “I thought you were ready.”

“You're right, it is hard work.” Sweetie Belle groaned again.

“That's why we do it...” Apple Bloom began.

“Together!” She and Applejack finished while sharing a hug together leaving the filly bitter at the thought.

“Rarity never wants to do chores together.” She remarked as she looked aside as Kion placed a comforting paw on her back.

“It’s okay.” He assured. “We’ll help you out.”

“Okay?” She replied as she got a nearby empty bucket ready as Kion picked up a handful of nearby bruised apples so he can help walk her through it. “Ready?”

Sweetie Belle nodded as she had the bucket nearby her ready as Kion gently launched an apple at her direction to which she missed as the apple landed beside her

“Good try, you almost had it that time. Now here comes another one, you ready?” Kion complimented to keep her from getting discouraged as he prepares another apple at her direction to which she caught that time. “There you go!” He then sent another apple at her way to which she caught again.

“Now you’re getting it!” Applejack complimented as she moved to work with her little sister into continuing with their chore and game together. “Good work!”

“Thanks.” Sweetie Belle replied with a tone of pleased gratitude while still surprised that she is finding a fine time managing this without getting yelling at by her older sister for once.

Meanwhile, back at the shop where Rarity tends her to work while still looking frustrated her as she starts from scratch.

“Ugh, all that work ruined, thanks to Sweetie Belle.” She complained as she went through her drawers. “Oh my. It's usually a big mess in here.” She said to herself as she looks around her organized room and finds inspiration from her little sister fixing up her room. “Id-ee-a! This is genius! I shall call it 'full spectrum fashions'!” She declared as she puts up a display of outfits in a matter of minutes. “If Sweetie Belle hadn't…” She began thinking of thanking her sister before quickly stopping herself. “Well, no matter. She still shouldn't have touched my things without permission.” She then said with a huff as she levitated the outfits away still unable to admit and acknowledge her little sister’s efforts to please her.

Back at the farm, Applejack and Beshte just finish putting all of the grapes to two large buckets.

“Apple Bloom! You're up!” Applejack called out to her to let her know he is ready for her as she hops on over and gets a boost into the bucket from her big sister into the tub as she happily stomps on the grapes to squish the juice of them to which Applejack pulls a small lever on the bottom to fill a jar with grape juice.

“You're... making... grape juice?” Sweetie Belle eagerly responded seeing this. “Rarity would call the fashion police on me if I got grape juice anywhere near her precious outfits.”

“Well, that's silly!” Apple Bloom responded finding it ridiculous as she accidentally sends some grape juice right in her older sister’s face.

“Apple Bloom...” He started seeming agitated.

“Please, Applejack, she didn't mean—“ Sweetie began pleading in her defense until she charged ahead into the tub and tackled her sister into a playful fight to which Sweetie Belle was delighted to see this sibling dynamic rather than the clashing feud episode she expected.

“How d'you like them grapes, y'little whippersnapper!”

“That tickles!”

The two shared another friendly laugh together as they playfully tussle in the grapes.

If only she could have this kind of relationship with her sister to which Sweetie Belle thought as said sister is currently taking her new line of clothes to the laundry room.

“Now to get these fabrics washed for my fabulous new line.” She said to herself as she noticed her shrunken sweater. “Ooh, my favorite sweater... I just can't believe that Sweetie Belle.” She grumbled until she accidentally stepped on her pet cat’s towel who released a vicious growl in her direction.

Upon seeing the sweater is now her size she smiles as she unclips it in puts it on Opal.

“Oh, Opal-wopal! It's as if Sweetie Belle knew the sweater was perfect for you.” Rarity then said to her rather affectionate and enderaignly to her pet cat before keeping up her pride and stubborn refusal to acknowledge her little sister’s efforts once again. “And Sweetie Belle should consider herself perfectly lucky that this thoughtless mishap turned out all right.”

Back at the barn both Apple Bloom and Applejack work together as they herd and run the herd of white sheep with a few black sheep in the mix back into the pen with Apple Bloom and Kion helping round and guide them with Applejack and Beshte closing the gate after them.

“Well done, Apple Bloom!” Kion complimented as he, Beshte, Applejack all share high-fives with each other.

“Wow. It's as if they were just one pony.” Sweetie Belle commented as the two farm girls share a...

“Yee-haw!”

…together.

“Way to corral some critters, sis!” Applejack complimented.

“You coulda just a-a-a-asked.” One of the sheep pointed as Beshte spoke to them.

“Oh, just let them have their fun okay?” Beshte encouraged them as Applejack closed the gate with her back hooves as the two sisters walk ahead together.

“Rarity never high-hoofs me.” Sweetie Belle commented while still feeling downcast of seeing how their relationship is quite the opposite of her and Rarity’s.

Back at the boutique shop, Rarity is creating her dress for her important client using the blue gems she got earlier.

“Perfect! Just one more, and this ensemble is fini!” She said as she went over to her box to get one more gem only to see that her chest is empty. “Sweetie Belle!” She growled as she moved to where she last placed her drawing to which had some of the gems she used. “Where's her silly little arts and crafts project?” She got a good look at what was on it.

A drawing of the two sisters under a heart shape to show how much her little sister loved and cared for her. But she didn’t see it right away because she was more concerned and upset her use of the gems had her race out to get more. And once she saw her little sister’s creation in full glory as was moved to tears.

“Oh, Sweetie Belle! My one and only sister! What have I done?” She cried. “All the time I could have spent with you was wasted complaining and wishing you were gone.” She then dramatically cried as she laid on the floor. “Woe is me!” But then she quickly composed herself with a new resolve. “No! I must get her back! I must! As Celestia is my witness, I shall never be sisterless again!”

She then set out to reunite and make amends with her sister as she walked into town and into the outskirts of the Everfree Forest where she found her camping out and having s’mores and roasting marshmallows with Kion, Beshte, Applejack, and Apple Bloom together.

“Sweetie Belle!” Rarity exclaimed in delight. “Oh, I have been galloping all over looking for you. I—“

Sweetie Belle still holding a grudge quickly turned around refusing to acknowledge her to which the other’s shared concerned looks with each other as the older sibling finds herself cut off her mid-sentence.

“Oh hello, un-sister. What are you doing here? Better be careful, you might get some dust on you.” She coldly greeted as the others still share each the same looks seeing that something went down that drove a crack in their relationship.

“Should we say something?” Beshte whispered to Kion.

“I don’t think so.” Kion returned knowing full well what it’s like with his relationship with Kiara at times.

“Oh, Sweetie Belle, I want to apologize. I am not better off without a sister.” Rarity pressed to make amends with her.

“I'm not better off without a sister either.” Sweetie admitted as she turned to face her while still not smiling. “Spending the day with Kion, Beshte, Applejack and Apple Bloom made me realize that.”

“Oh, Sweetie…” Rarity began with a bright smile as she reached out a hoof to her. ”…you don't know how happy I am to hear…”

But instead of making amends she pushed aside her hoof and stated. “And that's why I'm adopting Kion as my big brother!”

“What?!” Rarity exclaimed in shock as she ran and wrapped her little hooves around the lion’s arm.

“What?!" Kion exclaimed equally shocked and surprised.

“What?!” Applejack and Apple Bloom also exclaimed in the same tone as both Kion and Rarity.

“What?!” Beshte also exclaimed when Sweetie explained her reasons.

“A sister is someone who loves and takes care of another sister. In this case Kion’s a real brother.”

Rarity frowned as Kion is left at a loss of words of how to handle this.

“Hold on, Sweetie Belle. Don't get ahead of yourself here.” Kion tried to insist as he removed his paw from the little unicorn’s grasp.

“Surely, you don’t mean that.” Beshte also tried to encourage her not to think that way.

“I mean sure I’m very flattered you think of me as family, but Rarity is still your sister and whatever happened between you two, she’s truly sorry for the way she acted to you before.”

“Or maybe he should be your sister, so he could teach you what a good sister is supposed to be!” Sweetie replied while glaring at Rarity in anger as Kion couldn’t think of anything to say as Rarity desperately begged for forgiveness while on her hooves groveling before her.

“But I don't need lessons on being a good sister, I-I promise! Listen! I'll show you how to cook my favorite quiche! Or, or, I'll show you the proper way to beautify your mane.” She tried to offer to make it up to her. “Won't that be fun? Hm?”

Sweetie’s mood failed to change as she trotted up to her still fuming in annoyed anger to which her older sister was forced to back up when she approached her.

“Hm! You want me to go home with you, so we can do what you wanna do?”

“Uh... yes?” Rarity honestly replied with a wide sheepish grin which honestly did little to make things better since that proven she was once again thinking about herself.

“Just forget it!” Sweetie refused to accept her forgiveness before storming off from the camping site as Apple Bloom ran after her while Rarity walked over to Applejack and Kion.

“Well, that apology went swimmingly.” Rarity grumbled to herself before speaking to Kion. “Kion, why do you have to be so good and make me look so bad? I mean you’ve had your fair shares of trouble with Kiara.”

“True. But I had to do more than just respecting each other’s desires. Being a good sibling means being willing to be support and be there for each other when they want to spend time with you and that’s pretty much my relationship with Kiara. Even with our current responsibilities we managed to make time to spend time with each other. Especially after Kiara became queen for those few days.”

“Right. I almost forgot about that.” Rarity recalled.

“Point being, me and Kiara would never have grown closer together than before if it weren’t for Twilight going the extra mile in guiding our relationship in the right way by getting us both to give in to what we needed to accept to allow our bond to grow stronger than before.” Kion added.

“Exactly!” Applejack agreed with words of wisdom to share. “Bein' sisters is like... apple pie. You can have amazin' apples, and you can have a wonderfully crispy crust, but only together you can have a perfect apple pie.”

“But apart, all we are is just a pile of mush and some crumbly dry mess... “ Rarity realized her friend’s metaphor as she gasped. “I know what I need to do! I just hope it isn't too late!”

“And I have a plan to how we can arrange for that.” Kion added as he motioned the unicorn over for a whisper to which she was all ears for in preparation for the big day.

The next day nearby Sweet Apple Acres, everyone friendly pair of sisterly faces gathered together for the competition. One pair of unicorn sisters managed to win a blue ribbon in a pie eating contest as Applejack, Kion, Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle arrive on the scene with the two Apple sisters now wearing green bandanas to let competitors know they are competing as a team together.

“Well, I guess it's a good thing Rarity isn't here. Do I see 'uncouth' written all over this contest?” The little unicorn commented as they passed by the events that were going on around them.

The three had no words to say about as Apple Bloom quickly changed the subject upon seeing something of interest.

“Look at the size of that pig!” She commented at the nearby pen where two pigs are rolling around in the mud together.

“He sure is a cutie.” Applejack complimented at the sight as Kion chuckled too.

“That's the last word Rarity would use.” Sweetie further commented before mimicking her older sister. “Oh my, what a repulsive monstrosity! This thing needs a head to toe makeover!”

Thankfully they heard fanfare nearby which means the big competition is about to begin.

“It's almost time!” Applejack exclaimed as they both walked over to the event’s starting line.

“Well, you two have fun. Sure wish I had a sister to run the race with.” Sweetie Belle sadly lamented as Kion quickly set forward with the plan to resolve this as he places a paw on her shoulder.

“Hold up.” He stopped her from walking off the opposite direction. “You’re not coming?”

“What do you mean?” She asked still confused.

“You don’t want a big brother by your side?” He offered.

“Really?” She asked looking very pleasantly surprised by the offer.

“Of course!” He replied as she wrapped her hooves around him and hugged him.

“Oh, thank you!” She exclaimed as they joined the Apple Sisters at the starting line.

Just as they get ready, Granny Smith spoke into the microphone to get everyone’s attention.

“Is this thing on?” She spoke into as everyone gathered together for her announcement. “I don't think this thing is on.” She said to her eldest grandson as she accidentally flipped the megaphone the other way. “Hello!” She spoke into it as Big Macintosh whispered to correct her. “What is the— e— oh. You have to say so. Confangled modern doohickeys.” She then muttered as she smacked the megaphone as it turned back into the correct direction after spinning around for a little while. “Now, the event you've all been waiting fer! The Sister Soci— The Socialhooves— “ She struggled to pronounce it correctly before giving up. “Oh, dabnabbit, you know, the big race! We have five teams this year fer the event! So y'all head on up to the finish line, y'hear?” Big Macintosh whispered something in her ear to correct her again. “Eh?” She said in confusion before realizing. “The start line.

“That's us.” Sweetie Belle excitedly whispered as Kion gives her a positive smile while winking at Applejack that everything is going to plan so far.

“Good luck!” The Apple sisters wished them as Granny Smith prepares to send them off.

“And may the best sisters win!” She announced. “On your marks... get set...” She announced as everyone all got ready just as Granny Smith accidentally poked herself in the eye. “Gooooo!”

The racers start off as they get off to a fast start. All of the pairs made sure they were all sticking together as it was required in order for their placement in the race to count. Kion on the other paw dragged a little behind Sweetie Belle so he can enact his plan. As everyone leaped over the first obstacle the mud pit, Sweetie Belle happily hopped through the mud pit as Kion made his move as he “tripped.” up and fell into the mud pit which caught the little unicorn’s concerned attention.

“You okay, Kion?” She asked as her mud coated partner nodded in response before running up and ahead so they can play catch up together.

Unbeknownst to her, the one running with her has blue eyes in contrast to the orange-brown eyes Kion has to which is currently peaking from the mud pit to see that he intended for this happen while smiling to himself before popping his head back into the mud low enough so he can breathe through it.

First up was the bucket outside where the competitors all hop from bucket to bucket across. One peagsus filly had trouble there which bought Sweetie Belle and her partner time to catch up and pass them as they swiftly clear the obstacle no problem while moving themselves up towards the front of the field with the little unicorn happily hopping through the buckets no problem all the way.

With Applejack and Apple Bloom leading the competition the two then make their way in leaping over the next obstacle, three large crates where the competitors all have to jump over. When it came to the climbing up, Sweetie Belle struggled to climb herself up as her partner stood atop taking notice of this.

“Kion, help!” Sweetie cried out as her partner quickly reached out and helped her across the obstacle as she lunges her over the crates so they can press forward together.

Next up is a set table where competitors now have each eat a whole apple pie before being allowed to continue. Both the two easily chomped down on their pies before running off together leaving the team in still at the table surprised as they were still working on their pies.

The two were now gaining ground as they effortlessly push the hay bale across a hundred meters while passing by the team in front of them before running through the track onto the next obstacle where they have to make grape juice much what Applejack, Apple Bloom, Kion, and Beshte all did at the barn the other day.

With Sweetie Belle being given a lift into the bucket she was able to quickly stomp on the grapes with grape juice being quickly produced before her partner catapulted a dozen apples her way to which she was able to catch them all no problem.

These two are really on the roll with their excellent teamwork as they now have moved up to third place while leaving the rest of the competitors stunned and left in the dust.

Next up was the final obstacle of the course, the chicken house, where the competitors must carefully balance an egg on their nose through the little house and into the basket of eggs before being allowed to run the final stretch filled with fence hurdles they have to clear to which they left the team in second at the time dropping their eggs completely stunned with how fast they were moving together before quickly running after them to get back ahead of them.

The two teams competing for second overall were now both neck at neck as they both muzzle to muzzle as they approach the finish line with Applejack and Apple Bloom right ahead of them as they all take the final leap with…

Applejack and Apple Bloom the winners as they effortlessly make the jump over the line as the other two teams leap over with Sweetie Belle and her partner just barely beating the team next to them by a mere few inches for second.

The crowd cheered for the top three teams as the referee handed the winning duo their blue ribbons.

“Ooh, so close! You almost won!” Apple Bloom exclaimed.

“Yeah, you two were both making up so much ground you nearly caught us in the end.” Applejack also complimented as Sweetie Belle moved to thank her partner.

“Thank you, Kion! You were amazing! I don't even care that we didn't win. This was so much fun!” She hugged him as she suddenly something on the mud coated individuals head… a horn. “Huh?” She said as she recognized that white horn along with the three crystal blue diamond cutie mark. “Rarity?!” She asked as she shook off the mud on her body. “Wait, where's Kion?”

Said lion pulled himself out as he took a deep breath from having to hold his breath in a minute at a time before catching up to the others.

“I don't get it.” She expressed confusion of what really happened before Kion began to explain.

“We switched places over at the very first mudhole.” He said as he shook the mud off the lower half of his body.

“So, we did the whole competition... together?” Sweetie said as she put the pieces together.

“That we did, little sister. Well, except for the start line.” Rarity answered.

“But you finished together!” Apple Bloom added of what really counts the most.

“You mean... you were all in on it?” Sweetie Belle asked as everyone all nods their heads together. “You did this for me?” She asked as her heart strings were pulled into giving tears of joy.

“Us. I did it for us. You see?“ Rarity replied as they share a sisterly hug together. “We are apple pie!”

“Huh?” Sweetie replied confused by that.

“Uh, I'll explain later.” Rarity stated it was for the best. “For now, I think we deserve a celebration!”

“Yeah!” Everyone else all cheered.

“Where?” Sweetie asked.

“The spa, of course.” Rarity answered as everyone laughs together.

“Oh, Rarity.” Her younger sister laughed it off.

“No, I-I-I'm serious.” Rarity corrected as Kion placed a paw on her shoulder with a urging smile.

“Maybe after we let Sweetie Belle have her fun first.” He recommended as he reminded her to which Rarity then smiled too as he took in his advice.

“I mean…” Rarity corrected herself. “Whatever you really have in mind.” She offered to her little sister.

With their relationship mended and stronger than before the two unicorn sisters along with Kion head on over Carousel Boutique where they both get their hair done just as Spike comes over upon Kion’s request so they can send a letter to the Princess together.

“Very well then, what should we write to the Princess? Rarity asked her little sister.

“I'll start.” She replied as she looked at her reflection in the mirror as Spike starts writing as Rarity joins her. “Having a sister is just about the bestest thing in the world. But it sure isn't the easiest.”

“I agree that being sisters is a wonderful thing, but it takes teamwork. Sometimes it's about compromising. Sometimes it's about accepting each other’s' differences. But mostly, it's about having fun together. Even if it means getting your hooves a little bit dirty.”

“A lot dirty.” Sweetie corrected.

“A little bit dirty.” Rarity insisted as the two got at each other’s throats again.

“A lot dirty.”

“A little bit dirty!”

“A lo—“

Acting quick, Spike placed his claws over the two sisters mouths just as Kion was about to intervene again.

“Hold it, hold it! How about "a medium amount of dirty, not too little, not too much, just right"?” He suggested to them.

“Deal!” They exclaimed in agreement as they hugged each other to which Kion released a sigh of relief as Spike puts the finishing touches on the letter before sending it off to the princess who received the letter just as Luna walked inside with a hot cup of cocoa for her.

“Here you are dear sister.” Luna offered as Celestia levitated the mug to her mouth for a sip.

“Thanks.”

“Anything interesting?” She asked as she read her letter.

“Actually there is…” Celestia answered as she gestured her sister to read over her shoulder as they read the letter’s contents together to which the two smiled warmly while shedding some heartfelt tears of joy upon reading the lesson Rarity and Sweetie Belle learned together.

“Oh my.” Luna remarked feeling touched herself. “That is indeed quite a lesson they have learned together. Much like what we now have together.”

“I’m so glad we are together once again.” Celestia’s tears streaming from her face as she tightly hugged her sister as she returned the hug.

“Me too.” She quietly expressed. “I’ll never become Nightmare Moon again.” She vowed as Celestia secretly smiled upon hearing this.

While the two sisters were sharing their heartfelt moment together, Scar himself was secretly spying on them from the nearby window as he recalled the memory of dealing with his brother Mufusa after walking out on him after deliberately missing the presentation of his son Simba.

“Why, if it isn't my big brother descending from on high to mingle with the commoners.” Scar mockingly and sarcastically greeted with an overjoyed tone as he walks up to him and gets into his personal space while doing so before walking off.

Not fooled by his sarcasm Mufusa moved to sternly reprimand his brother for what he didn't do this morning. “Sarabi and I didn't see you at the presentation of Simba.”

“That was today?” He voiced with faux surprise and astonishment. “Oh, I feel simply awful!” He faked guilt as he dragged his claws along the nearby wall, creating a screeching sound that made Zazu cringe. “Must've slipped my mind.” He said after taking a second to admire his claws.

“Yes, well, as slippery as your mind is, as the king's brother, you should've been first in line!” Zazu chastised him as he flew up to his eye level to which the lion responses by snapping his jaws in front of him to intimidate the hornbill to back off and then quickly ducked behind one of Mufusa’s paws for refuge.

“Well, I was first in line...” He said as Zazu briefly peered his head from behind. “…until the little hairball was born.” He added while getting in the bird’s face rather condescendingly to which intimidated Zazu into ducking back behind Mufusa’s paw with the larger lion lowering his head to speak to his brother eye to eye in his defense.

“That hairball is my son and your future king.” Mufusa reminded as they both lift their heads up simultaneously.

“Oh, I shall practice my curtsy.” Scar sarcastically quipped as he turns away to leave with his brother angered with the attitude he was showing him in return.

“Don't turn your back on me, Scar.” Mufusa warned with his temper rising now.

“Oh, no, Mufasa. Perhaps you shouldn't turn your back on me.“ He retorted as he turned back to walk away again to which enraged Mufusa into running right in front of him and cut him off before he could leave.

“Is that a challenge?!” Mufusa dangerously growled with a threatening roar ready to teach him a lesson if he didn't watch his mouth and stop right there.

“Temper, temper.” He calmly responded in the face of the furious lion. “I wouldn't dream of challenging you.” He added with gritted teeth on saying dream.

“Pity. Why not?” Zazu questioned with disappointment as he leaned down to answer his question eye to eye.

“Well, as far as brains go, I got the lion's share, but when it comes to brute strength...” He responded as he lifts his head up to address Mufusa, clearly bitter and incensed before the expression faded, and he walks past Mufasa, who glares at him as he leaves. “I'm afraid I'm at the shallow end of the gene pool.”

Scar then walked towards the Savannah and away from his older brother who he would murder the next day looked ahead with the same frown he is doing now.

After seeing enough, Scar teleports away in a flash unnoticed.

Author's Note

In this episode we focus on Rarity and Sweetie Belle's relationship as they both clash as the latter's attempts to please the former led just led to her getting yelled at instead to which left the poor filly disheartened and disowning her as a result.

It took a plan by Kion while using his relationship with Kiara following their last falling out to get their relationship back on track to whom I felt was the perfect guy for the job.

Also I added a scene where Celestia gets Rarity's friendship report who is moved to tears at the heartwarming lesson along with her sister Luna as they express their relief that Luna is no longer Nightmare Moon...

...Which has been secretly seen by Scar himself as he recalls their last conversation with his brother before he murdered him the next day to show the parallels and contrasts of the two sibling pairs.

Next up is "The Imaginary Okapi." where the Lion and Pony Guard meet an okapi ally as well as a new leopard enemy along the way.

Episode 8: Too Many Memories

Episode 8:

Too Many Memories

The Pony and Lion Guard ran across the Pride Lands under the light of the full moon. "This way, everyone!" Ono called down to the rest of the Guard, leading them towards the sounds of terrified cries coming from two aardvarks.

"Thank goodness." sighed Muhanga.

"We came as soon as we could." Kion informed.

"What's the kerbubble?" Beshte asked.

"Our den!" Muhangus exclaimed. "It's full of...Hyenas!" the two aardvarks shuddered and huddled together.

"Hyenas again?" Fuli groaned.

“Great.” Twilight added just as annoyed as the cheetah. "We've had to chase them out of the Pride Lands every night this week." the unicorn rolled her eyes.

"I know one thing that'll scare them away from the aardvarks' den for good." Kion spoke up, "Pony and Lion Guard, follow me."

The pair of aardvarks hid behind a large boulder once they saw the silhouettes of the hyena pack in field by their den. "Everyone, stay behind me." Kion ordered the rest of the Guard, who nodded in agreement.

"Be careful Kion." Fluttershy muttered under her breath as the prince ran a few feet ahead and stood on a large boulder. "Hey!" The prince yelled, getting the pack's attention. "I told you before, and I meant it. Get. Out. Of. The Pride Lands!"

He was about to unleash the Roar on them when a paw covered his mouth, “What in the-?”

“I wouldn’t do that…”

Kion looked to the side and saw Kyoga. “What the-? Kyoga, what are you doing? I’m gonna chase out the hyenas.”

“That’s the thing….. Those aren’t hyenas…” Kyoga said pointing to the animals.

“Yes they are!” Rainbow said. “They look just like them.”

“Not everything is what it seems, pegasus. Hyenas are bigger and more muscular while these guys are slimmer. These guys are aardwolves.”

“Aardwolves?!” The Guard replied.

“How do you know?” Applejack asked.

“I had aardwolves back where I came from. They’re nocturnal and mostly kept to themselves. Making their homes in abandoned aardvark dens.”

“But we still live there!” Muhangus exclaimed from behind the rock.

“Then you have to tell them gently, so they’ll go search somewhere else.” Kyoga replied to the aardvarks. “They’re incestavores, so they just eats bugs. They won’t harm you.”

The aardvark couple looked at each other and went with Kyoga over to the aardwolves, “Excuse us, aardwolves?” Muhangus called gently.

The aardwolves paused and their leader came out, named Mjomba. “Yes, what can we help you with?”

“Um….. you’re kinda in our den, Mr. Aardwolf.” Muhangus said gently.

“We are? Oh sorry. We thought they were abandoned.” Mjomba apologized. “We’ll move along and find some other empty dens to make our home.”

“Thank you.” Muhangus smiled.

“Alright everyone. The aardvark still live here, so let’s move along!” Mjomba called to his pack and they nodded and followed their leader.

Kyoga smiled as the aardwolves vanished in the night. “Thank you, Kyoga, you too Pony and Lion Guard.” Muhangus smiled.

“You’re welcome.” Kyoga replied before regrouping with Kion, Twilight and their friends.

“Nice work, Kyoga.” Kion replied.

“Yeah, you kinda saved us from making a big mistake back there.” Twilight replied sheepishly with a matching grin wondering what mess they would have had to clean up had Kion used the Roar on them.

“Yeah I did. Honestly, I thought you would have been the one to see the aardwolves more clearly, Kion.” Kyoga replied.

“Who? Me?” Kion yelped.

“Yes. You’re a lion. They have excellent night vision, way better than any of your friends. You should have seen the aardwolves and tell them apart from hyenas.” Kyoga deadpanned.

Kion chuckled sheepishly at Kyoga’s logic making her roll her eyes. “Anyway, see ya.” Kyoga said before she yawned and rubbed her eyes.

“Hold on Kyoga.” Fluttershy called while fluttering over to her.

Kyoga sighed, “What?” Kyoga turned around and Fluttershy slightly gasped. Kyoga had horrible bags under her eyes and she looked exhausted. “Woah nelly, sugarcube!” Applejack exclaimed in shock upon seeing this.

“What happened to you?” Kion questioned with worry.

“Nothing. I’m fine.” Kyoga brushed off.

“Tell that to the bags under your eyes.” Rainbow pointed out not buying it.

“You look exhausted darling.” Rarity added insisted that she accepts better care for herself.

“Guys, I told you I’m fine. Just haven’t been getting any sleep lately. No big deal.” Kyoga reassured gruffly. “I’ll see you guys in the morning.” Kyoga walked off… only to run into a tree. “OW! Stupid flora…!” and she continued on her way, leaving Kion and his friends looking at each other with concern as there is more that meets the eye literally in this case.

Back at her home, Kyoga was sleeping before she started twitching and stirring in discomfort.

(Flashback)

“Mommy! Daddy!” Young Kyoga whimpered as there were many large lions tackling her former pride and family before one of them came before her. “I’ll take you first…!” it said before it raised it claw and slashed Kyoga!

(Flashback End)

“Gah!” Kyoga gasped, shocking herself awake and breathing heavily. When she calmed down and her heart returned to a normal heart rate, she sighed, folding her ears. She’s been having flashbacks like that for the past week.

“Every time I have the same flashback…… guess I’ll have these forever…” Kyoga thought sadly before she looked up at the night sky. “Karabi…. Lite… where are you?”

Kyoga then looked towards the Outlands. “Maybe a walk will help calm my nerves.” she said to herself before she got up and headed towards the Outlands.

The next morning, Kion, Twilight and the Guard were on at Pride Rock with Simba, Nala, Celestia and Luna.

“It was weird it was like she hasn’t slept in weeks, dad.” Kion told his father about Kyoga’s condition.

“She kept saying she was fine but she didn’t look like it.” Beshte added.

"I see." Simba nodded while understanding the situation. "This is very concerning."

“It appears she been having recollections about her past.” Luna replied and deduced.

“Recollection?” Bunga asked wondering what it means.

“It means she’s having flashbacks or memories about her past.” Twilight explained.

“Oooooh.” Bunga replied. “.... What’s wrong with that?”

“Bunga, we know that Kyoga’s past isn’t the greatest so if she’s having flashbacks then that’s why she looked as bad as she did.” Kion further explained why.

“So we just ask her to tell us what happened. Easy.” Bunga suggested, smirking thinking this should be easy as the sun and night monarchs voiced otherwise.

"I wouldn't go that far." Celestia responded while shaking her head in disapproval with that approach. "Remember what I told you, these things take time."

"Why?" Bunga couldn't help but ask.

"Bunga!" Nala reminded. "Listen to the princesses here."

“Because that may not be as easy as you think, Young Bunga.” Princess Luna responded. “Just remembering your past whether good or bad is tough but having the courage to tell others about that same past is very difficult. Sometimes the speaker wishes that they never revealed it or that it never happened, which I myself understand all too well.” She folded her ears knowing she had her own bad past with the whole Nightmare Moon incident.

“So what can we do? Just ask her to tell us?” Fuli asked.

“No, you all must wait until she comes to you. If you try to coax it out of her, she’ll be more and more reluctant to tell you the truth. As you said, she acts rude as a defense mechanism from her trauma.” Princess Luna advised. “So, as my sister said, you must take it slow with Young Kyoga.”

“Okay Princess Luna. We’ll go see if Kyoga’s any better today during patrol.” Kion replied with a smile with the dark-colored alicorn nodded in approval for listening to her. “Come on Lion and Pony Guard.”

The others nodded before they followed Kion, starting their patrol.

Kyoga, meanwhile, was walking through the Outlands by herself. She didn’t mind the heat from the blazing sun much, but it was still making her a bit tired. Kyoga yawned while rubbing her eyes as she continued to walk and have some time for herself.

“Wish I could just….. Wish I could have done something to help.” Kyoga kept whispering to herself as she continued walking aimlessly, unaware that she gained some unwanted attention through her trip into the Outlands. “Well, well, well, Kyoga all alone in the Outlands.” Janja smirked maliciously.

“And from the look of things, she’s tired.” Nne replied with a knowing smirk.

“Yeah, meaning she’s not full strength. A perfect time to strike.” Tano added with the same expression on his face.

Janja laughed before deciding this the perfect opportunity to pounce on, “Come on boys, time for some revenge.”

Cheezi and Chungu on the other hand, tried to turn and walk out unnoticed but Janja wouldn’t let them as he quickly stopped them in their tracks, “That includes you furbrains!” He firmly reminded them to which both Cheezi and Chungu winced but they went with their clan leader, reluctantly as it is perfectly clear they are not allowed to back out of this one.

At the same time frame, Reirei and Goigoi noticed the female lioness cub from their den site. “Ah, so that meddling lioness is in the Outlands all by herself huh? Sounds the perfect to ambush her and make her pay for exposing us.” Reirei replied.

“Whatever you say dear.” Goigoi added.

“I’ll gather the clan and then we’ll head out together. You go and get the kiddies as well. This will be a perfect hunting moment for them.” Reirei chuckled evilly before she and Goigoi went to assemble their entire clan before noticing Janja and his clan have the same idea. "Janja?!" She questioned with a growl.

"Reirei?!" Janja returned in kind as the two stare down at each other with intense hatred because hyenas and jackals are not known to get along with each other before they both demanded in unison. "What are you doing here?!"

"Hunting down that meddling girl for exposing me and my family to the Lion and Pony Guard!" She answered before returning the same question back at him. "And how about you? What do you got against her?"

"What I got against her is the fact that girl has been helping the Lion and Pony Guard ruin my attempts to get dinner and gave me these scars on me cheek!" Janja angrily answered while showing the jackal the marks she left on him.

"I see." Reirei said before a surge of magic flowed through her mind to get her to properly think about the best course of action. "Well since it's obvious that we don't like each other and we both want revenge on Kyoga let's make a deal, shall we?" She then proposed willing to put aside their differences for the moment so they can take down a mutual enemy. "We can take down Kyoga and get our revenge together and then we can go back to hating each other when this is all over."

"What?! Now just wait a minute..." Janja skeptically questioned thinking this is a double-cross before the same surge went through his midn to get him to properly think too. "...Actually...that is a very good plan. I like it! Let's do it!" He immediately agreed before the two leaders shook paws together before temporarily going their seperate ways so they can gather together their clans.

As the two parties prepare themselves for a once in a while opportunity, Scar appears on the very high ledge above everyone having watched the entire scene while working his magic to get them to come to their senses.

"Excellent." Scar said with a satisfied grin with his green eyes glowing a fiery glare at the sight he had just motivated the two disputing hunting parties together.

Back in the Pridelands, Kion, Twilight and the Guard were nearing Kyoga’s home near the boundaries of the Outlands.

“I still don’t understand why Kyoga wanted her home so close to the Outlands Borders.” Rainbow Dash commented trying to make sense of it considering she'd be the first targeted prey an Outsider comes across when crossing the border.

“Now sugarcube, ya’ll know how her behavior is.” Applejack pointed out.

“Applejack’s right. She’s fiercely independent for a lion cub her age so she’d want a space to herself.” Twilight added. The group made it to her den, only to find her absent. “That’s weird? Where’d she go?” Fluttershy asked.

“Hunting?” Fuli asked.

“Maybe, but…” Kion saw pairs of footprints leading away from Kyoga’s den. “These footprints don’t look like she headed into the field go to hunting.”

“Then where did she go?” Rarity questioned and Kion trailed the footprints and saw them leading into the Outlands. “Oh boy, her tracks go right into the Outlands!”

“The Outlands!” Fuli gasped in horror as everyone realizes of how vulnerable she is now.

“What’s wrong with that? She’s been in the Outlands before. She’ll be fine.” Bunga brushed off, nonchalantly.

“Bunga, Kyoga’s tired and with the unrelenting heat of the Outlands, that’ll sap her strength even more, leaving her vulnerable.” Kion reasoned.

“Plus the darling has those ghastly hyena and jackal clans as enemies in the Outlands as well.” Rarity added.

“And they might take advantage of her not being at full strength to take her out!” Ono gasped.

“Which means we have to find her before Janja, Reirei and their clans do. Ono, Rainbow, Fluttershy, search from the air. With three pairs of eye you guys should be able to spot her easier.” Kion ordered.

“Affirmative!” “Count on us!” “O-Okay….” Ono, Rainbow and Flutterhy all replied before they took to the skies.

“Till Equestria and the Pridelands end…” Kion started, dashing into the Outlands followed by the others saying together, “Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Kyoga yawned again as she stopped at a cliff overlooking a large part of the Outlands with the volcano in the distance. Kyoga rubbed her tired eyes again. Kyoga sighed as the wind blew through her fur. “Where ever you two are…. please come back to me. You’re all I have left…” Kyoga thought then...

“Well, well, well….” Kyoga’s ears perked and she turned around and saw Janja, Cheezi, Chungu, Nne and Tano stalking towards her. “Look what we have here. A tiny lioness cub with no one around…” Janja smirked.

“Seems like the right time to get some payback for what you did..” Reirei added with an equally malicious grin as she, Goigoi, her pups and her jackal clan stalked towards her as well. Kyoga lowered to the ground with her claws extended ready to defend herself even when she is weakened from being sleep deprived and heat exhaustion.

Meanwhile, Ono, Rainbow and Fluttershy were flying above when Ono spotted something, “Hapana!”

“What Ono?” Kion called up.

“Janja, his clan and Reirei and her entire jackal clan have Kyoga cornered on a cliff!” Ono exclaimed. Fluttershy gasped while Rainbow narrowed her eyes. “Not if I have anything to say about it!” and she bolted down there while Fluttershy and Ono regrouped with the others and headed over there with no time to question both parties forming a alliance together.

Kyoga snarled at her rivals, “Looks like this is the end of the line for you. No friends to back you up.” Janja smirked, ready to pounce when…

“I don’t think so!” Rainbow came and rammed Janja to the side before she hovered in front of Kyoga. “Now back off!”

Reirei laughed, “And what can one measly Pegasus do against us?” she mocked.

“She ain’t alone!”

“Don’t be so sure!”

Applejack and Beshte called as she charged in and Applejack kicked Reirei and Goigoi in the face, knocking them back while Beshte rammed the rest of the adult jackal and the pups scattered.

Kion and Bunga tackled Nne and Tano while Twilight fired her magic at Cheezi and Chungu, making them panic and run away.

“Thought you could hurt our friend huh, Janja?” Kion snarled.

“Yes. And I’ll keep coming for her cause that’s what rivals do!” Janja exclaimed.

“Yeah!” Reirei added. “She’s a meddling lioness cub that needs to be taken care of.”

“We’ll see about that.” Kion stated before he unleashed his Roar of the Elders and blew all of the hyenas and jackals away and towards the Volcano.

“And stay away!”

“Yeah!”

Bunga and Pinkie cheered.

“Kyoga, you okay?” Kion asked.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Kyoga replied. “..... Thanks….. for saving me….”

“It’s what we do.” Kion smiled.

Kyoga rubbed her right arm sheepishly with regret in her tone of voice as she further speaks to them. “Look…. I’m… sorry about always pushing you guys away. And being.. rude.”

“You don’t have to apologize darling, you just using a defense mechanism.” Rarity reassured it's no trouble at all.

“Yeah sugarcube, you don’t want any of us to know the full story about what happened to ya and that’s alright.” Applejack added.

“Rarity and Applejack are right. Until you feel comfortable enough to tell us what happened, we’ll try not to ask you about too much.” Kion put in with vowed and utmost patience with her going forward.

Kyoga nodded. “O-Okay.”

“Now let’s get you back to the Pridelands.” Twilight grinned and the Guard and Kyoga headed back to Kyoga’s home.

During the walk back both Kion and Ono secretly shared a wondering glance of how and why Janja, Reirei, and their respective clans would ever agree to a truce considering it is well known for them to not get along nor come to an agreement. But they both decided it was best that they needed to help Kyoga recover and get some rest and out of bad guy territory. After all the health and safety of their team come first.

Meanwhile, Reirei, Janja and their clans were both sore from Kion’s Roar that sent them near the Outlands Volcano.

“Ugh pesky lion cub!” Janja snarled, annoyed that Kion and the Guard foiled his plan again.

“That whole Lion and Pony Guard is trouble. We need to get rid them!” Reirei growled darkly, wanting something to be done about them.

“I believe I can help with that…..” a voice said and offered from behind them. The two clans turned and saw Scar standing over them, making them gasp at seeing the presumed deceased lion face to face.

“A-A-Are you..?” Janja stammered with his ears folded back in shock and fright as he is if he is seeing demons from the past yet in the full flesh and alive in this case.

“Yes… I.. am… Scar!” Scar confirmed and smirked before chuckling evilly.

Author's Note

Before I begin, for this chapter, I'd like to take a moment to explain the reason for this one after discussing with PikachuSkitty deciding to rewrite this episode changing with more focus on Kyoga after agreeing that the canon episode's plot could have been avoided had Kion had actually got a better look at the aardwolves since he had night vision.

So anyways in this version of this episode, instead Kyoga has another episode focused on her as recent nightmares of her Dark and Troubled Past that has been keeping her up the past week which has left her sleep-deprived and vulnerable when Janja and Reirei perform an Enemy Mine alliance to take her down in revenge for their previous encounters with her.

Her friends are rightfully concerned for her and want to know what happened but upon Princess Luna's advice from past experience, decide to let her open up to them instead of trying to coax it out of her and risk breaking off her friendship with them.

Luckily for Kyoga, the Lion and Pony Guard quickly came to her rescue to which she expresses her gratitude for them even after giving them the cold shoulder with her rude attitude to which the Guard returns it's okay since they understand that it's part of her defense mechanism as a result of whatever happened back then.

Following their most recent defeat, both Janja and Reirei are both fuming and through with being constantly getting their tails kicked by the Lion and Pony Guard while vowing to work together to try to take them down...

...As they along with their clans are approached by Scar himself who is more than ready to help them out in that regard with a plan in place along with encouraged them to put aside their differences in order to be able to take down their mutual enemies together.

Next up, is the "The Cutie Pox." where Apple Bloom gets her third Day in the Limelight in this upcoming episode where her desire for a cutie mark leads to her contracting a very strange condition to where she gets more than what she wished for.

Episode 9: The Cutie Pox

Episode 9:

The Cutie Pox

On a fine day in Ponyville, the Cutie Mark Crusaders along with the young honorary members of the Guard all make their way towards town with excitement written all over their faces as they prepare for a day of fun along with their friends as the three fillies prepare for another attempt at obtaining their cutie marks.

“Today's the day, Cutie Mark Crusaders! I can just feel it!” Apple Bloom expressed as she pressed a big red shiny six-pound ball as the other fillies having the balls in their bowling bags as they all arrived at the bowling alley together. “Today's the day we are all gonna get our cutie marks in... bowlin'!”

“Whoo-hoo!” Scootaloo cheered along with Sweetie also cheered but couldn’t say it clearly due to having the strap from her bag in her mouth to which she quickly spit out the bag so she can properly cheer.

“I mean, yaay!”

“Why, after today, we won't even be the Cutie Mark Crusaders anymore! We'll be the... the Three Strikes!” Apple Bloom declared.

“That makes us sound like we've struck out.” Scootaloo pointed out.

“Mmm.” Apple Bloom then thought of another name. “How 'bout the Pin Twins?” She proposed.

“But there are three of us.” Sweetie Belle pointed out again.

“Okay then... Um... the Bowlin' Dolls!” Apple Bloom proposed again.

“The Bowling Dolls! That's it!”

“Perfect!”

Her friends liked the idea as third time’s the charm this time.

“All righty then! Let's bowl 'em over!” Apple Bloom stated as they prepared to walk inside only to be stopped by the sounds of their friend’s voices.

“Hold up!”

“Wait for us!”

Their ostrich and baboon friends called after them as the others along with Beshte who was carrying their bowling balls on his back caught up with them.

“Don’t forgot us.” Kwato reminded them.

“Sorry.” The girls apologized.

“No worries.” Shauku replied as they all caught up with them.

“Hakuna Matata.” Mtoto added. “As long as we all get to have fun together.”

“You said it!” Beshte agreed as they all walked inside the bowling alley where they meet ponies and Pride Landers are all getting together inside.

The elephants and hippos which drew at least a third of the lanes as they all were all naturally talented at the sport with their raw strength as not a single one of them scored less than a 200 and every one of them has even managed to score a perfect 300 with every one of the herd members pictures on the wall in the alley’s Hall of Fame.

Beshte and the kids managed to get two lanes reserved for the afternoon so they could be next to each other when they bowled.

Predictably, most of the kids had a difficult time of generating enough momentum needed to knock the pins down as some manage to knock down a few pins at a time like Kwato, Kambuni, and Gumba to none at all like Shauku and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The three fillies have all managed to still hit gutter balls every time they have tried mixing up their throwing technique from using their hooves and their noses to try to generate enough momentum but didn’t quite have the control to properly steer the balls to hitting the pins. Beshte and Mtoto however were faring quite well as Mtoto was managing 100 score games while Beshte due to being far stronger and more balanced nearly scored a 200 in one of his games.

“Yes!” Mtoto exclaimed upon hitting a strike for the first time at the same time Beshte got another strike too.

“Way to go, Mtoto!” Beshte complimented.

“Thanks.”

“Yeah good job.” Kwato congratulated them.

“As always.” Gumba added while hiding his slight annoyance of how they dominate every game they’ve played in so far.

“It’s okay.” Kambuni assured there are no hard feelings. “Not everyone is a natural at everything as she takes her turn at bowling as she rolls her ball with the right amount of force and precision as the ball curves from the right and into the center to knock all ten pins down. “Oh, how about that.” She said rather delighted and surprised she managed to achieve that. “My first strike.”

“Poa, Kambuni!” Beshte commended. “Just like what I taught you.”

“Aw, thanks.” She returned before getting her point back across to their friends. “Just like Beshte said the key to this game is a strong arm and proper steering and direction.”

“Exactly!” Beshte nodded. “And you all are still doing your best since this is your first time.”

“True.” Guma replied accepting that along with Shauku as they see Sweetie Belle roll another gutter ball yet walked away with a smile feeling she deserves an “A” for effort.

Scootaloo went next as she tried kicked her ball down which ended up flying into the wall and bouncing around the room before it landed on the gutter on the opposite side of the room leaving everyone in the room staring at her for her crazy stunt who can only quickly force an apologetic and nervous grin before retreating.

Apple Bloom took her turn as she stepped forward with her ball as she examined of a new approach to rolling her ball before resorting to using her teeth to do it. With a good aim and throw per Beshte’s advice as manages to send it straight down the middle...

At the same time a similarly red-colored ball managed to hit and knock down all of the pins to which everyone present all cheered at the sight leading to Apple Bloom feeling she actually succeeded in earning her cutie mark…

…Until she saw that it was another pony with a sky blue mane with a white stripe on it wearing a black bowling shirt.

“But... but... what about my ball?” Apple Bloom wondered as the others eye her ball just stopping in front of the pins.

Even with the right advice she couldn’t generate enough momentum to knock the pins down which left the poor filly very disheartened at the thought she actually pulled it out before the reveal at the last second she actually didn’t. And her friends all didn’t know what to say to make her feel better.

“Sorry, Apple Bloom.” Kwato spoke as Kambuni placed a comforting wing on her back which did little to help brighten her mood as she sat back down with the sudden lost drive of wanting to play anymore.

Shortly a good few hours of bowling, the group all left the alley as Apple Bloom’s frown still remained as she was still upset from what happened earlier.

“That bowling sure was fun, even if all I got was gutter balls.” Sweetie Belle expressed.

“It sure was something.” Shauku expressed that he too had fun.

“Yeah, at least you were able to keep your ball in your lane.” Scootaloo commented as she rode on her scooter and then raced ahead to leap over a few rocks. “I don't think Mr. Kingpin is ever gonna let me play again!”

“Maybe at least not until you get the hang of bowling…” Gumba replied differently thinking otherwise. “…or at least enough hang to not hurl a ball at someone’s head.”

“Hey, maybe I could get my cutie mark in demolition!” Scootaloo then thought of another idea to which everything else all laughed together…

…Well all expect for the distraught Apple family pony as she just walked by the group.

“Aw, come on, Apple Bloom.” Scootaloo tried to cheer her up.

“It’ll be okay.” Beshte assured. “You’ll find your special talent someday.”

“I know just what you need to put the bloom back on your apple.” Sweetie Belle recommended as she thought of just the thing for sitting frowning filly as they head on over to Sugarcube Corner where her unicorn friend gives her a grenn-frosted cupcake. “A treat from Sugarcube Corner will cheer you up.”

“No, it won't.” She refused as she gently pushed the treat aside to which Kambuni quickly helped herself to as they turn to the master of bringing joy and smiles into everyone’s hearts with a good laugh…

…Pinkie and Bunga as they both put up a little special set-up for the crew.

“A party will cheer you up!”

“Come now, where’s that smile!”

The two happily exclaimed as the former placed a party hat on the filly’s head while the latter flipped her head upside down expecting a smile from her face as their friends blew party horns together.

“No, it won't.” Apple Bloom replied which left everyone especially Pinkie and Bunga falling backwards in complete and stunned shock that it didn’t do the trick as Rarity takes a turn in trying her one of her latest fashion creations upon being escorted on over there.

A bright purple hat with a bright green stripe, a white rose, with purple, orange, and green toucan feathers, and bright blue peacock feathers to which was placed on the filly’s head as she sat on the table

“A lovely new chapeau will cheer you up.” Rarity attempted as the feathers from it lowered at the same time her ears lowered to as for the third time in the row the attempt to cheer her up failed.

“No, it won't.” She said as she walked out of the shop and out and away from Ponyville for a little while.

“Come on, Apple Bloom, it's just a cutie mark!” Scootaloo tried to insist her to let it go.

“Or lack of a cutie mark!” Shauku added to which didn’t help matters.

“Shh!” Sweetie quickly covered his mouth.

“That's not helping!” Scootaloo added as the filly trotted off into the Everfree Forest alone.

“Apple Bloom! Where are you going?!” Mtoto called out to her as she ignored and pressed forward inside.

“Apple Bloom, come back!” Kwato called out to her as she still refused to listen to reason as goes inside the forest against the other’s wishes for her to move on.

“No problem.” Beshte reassured her friends. “Kion will make sure to watch after her. He always does whenever someone wanders in there.”

True to form, Kion who was just visiting Zecora while checking up on Kyoga’s mental well-being just happens to come across the filly who had just tripped and fell face first into the ground after crossing paths with a root she didn’t see due to being too depressed to look to where she was going.

“Apple Bloom!” Kion called out as he and Zecora approach her.

“Well, who is it that we have here? Why, it's Apple Bloom, my dear!” Zecora greeted.

“Ow...” Apple Bloom groaned in pain as she placed a hoof on her jaw as Kion helped her up.

“What has happened to you, youth?” Zecora asked as the filly opened her mouth so she can examine the source of her pain. “Ah, you've gone and chipped your tooth. Come with me, I have just the trick that will fix you up quite quick.”

Zecora led the way back to her hut as Kion places a paw on her back as she guides her over there to ensure she doesn’t break a hoof on the way to which she didn’t even protest as she licked the chipped part of her tooth before explaining to the young lion of what happened earlier in the day along with her previous struggles of trying to find her special talent as Kyoga listens on to their conversation.

“I've tried everything, Zecora, and still no cutie mark! Well, I'm gonna be as old as Granny Smith and still have a blank flank!” Apple Bloom finished her story as she complained of her troubles with a slight lisp due to her chipped tooth

“Your frustration is well understood, but one must be patient for all things good.” Zecora advised.

“Ugh, I've heard that from every pony I know! And now from every zebra I know! I'm just too impatient to be patient. I just want my cutie mark and I want it now!” She further complained nearly making the zebra drop an excess content of one of her special ingredients into the cauldron to which Kion quickly reached over as he caught it with one paw as the two glare at her who then nervously and apologetically before backing away from them.

“Listen…” Kion calmly began. “…I get what you’re saying and it is hard to be patient. But discovering who you want to be when you grow up in life takes time as much having to deal with situations where you have thinks through before acting.”

“Exactly.” Kyoga added. “As much as I wish to get better, I’m not complaining with how much time is needed for a full recovery.“

“Indeed.” The zebra agreed with the wise assessment while fetching a ladle so she can pour her a bowl of purple liquid for her to heal her ailing tooth. “For your cutie mark, you will have to wait. We must fix that tooth before it's too late. Now drink down every little drop, and this mixture will mend that chip on top!”

Apple Bloom does what was asked of her as she drinks every last drop of the brewed potion before looking at herself in the nearby mirror. It took a few seconds before the potion’s magic did its work as she sees that her teeth are back to its former glory.

“Oh my star apples, you did it, Zecora!” She gratefully expressed her gratitude as she formed her usual kid friendly grin before looking on at the various potions on the carious shelves inside. “Golly, you have tonics that heal all sorts of ailments. Bad bones, bad back, bad breath...” She read the labels of a few at her eye level.

“Yes little one, it is true, I have many a healing brew.” She replied.

“And not only stuff that fixes the bad, but stuff that brings the good! Good health, good hair... good heavens!” She marveled at the sight before thinking of an idea. “Hmm... I bet you can mix up a brew to fix... anything.”

“Don’t even think about it, Apple Bloom.” Kion warned from getting any ideas as she gestures her eager grin and baby like face to offer her a potion that can give her a cutie mark. “It’s not worth it.”

“There are many mixtures in this room, but none for what you want, dear Apple Bloom. A magic potion does not hold the key. For a cutie mark, time is the only remedy.” Zecora once again advised.

“Fine.” She relented as the zebra worked up another mixture with green spices and blueberries. ”Whatcha got goin' on there?”

“I am brewing up another mix for a rooster and his chicks.“ She answered as she went over to a pot to fetch a large magneta flower from inside of it. “It seems the rooster has lost his crow, making mornings very slow.”

“Hey, I've seen that flower bloomin' in Ponyville!” She mostly recognized. “What is it?”

“It is one we call 'Heart's Desire'. A dash will ignite the rooster's fire.” She replied as Apple Bloom greatly admired the creation as Kion could tell what she is thinking of. “With Heart's Desire, his talent comes into view, and he'll give a mighty cock-a-doodle-doo!”

“Zowie! Heart's Desire, huh?”

“Oh no.” Kyoga said to herself as Zecora looks around for something else but can’t seem to find what he is looking for.

“Ay me, but what is this? I have run out of amethyst. I must go get this purple flower for my brew to have full power!” Zecora then said as she walked outside to fetch herself that flower.

“Yeah, you go, you go.” Apple Bloom encouraged her so she can secretly take it behind her back.

“Apple Bloom!” Kyoga sternly eyed her to warn her not to do it.

“Oh all right.” She again relented.

“Good. Now let’s focus on getting you home.” Kion advised as he led the way out of the hut and towards Sweet Apple Acres as Apple Bloom smirks while stealthily snags the mixture with her tail before walking out so the Lion Guard’s Fiercest can take her home while unaware of the devious act that the little filly has just committed to which Kyoga did notice as soon as she turned her back.

“Always gotta learn the hard way don’t you?” Kyoga said to herself about the impatient filly as she pulls out a book so she can open up to the page of the flower Apple Bloom took home with her and what she has just gotten herself into.

The next day at school, while the kids from the Pride Lands are all playing pretend Lion Guard with some of the other fillies, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are both conversing nearby the swing set.

“I'm so hungry.” Sweetie expressed.

“Yeah, I can't wai—“ Scootaloo also expressed a desire for lunch until spotting Apple Bloom walking ahead very proudly before flashing her new cutie mark, a light silver ring which briefly flashed the girls in the eyes.

“Apple Bloom! You got your cutie mark!” The two exclaimed very proud for her as everyone gathers around her.

“Um, Apple Bloom... what is it?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yeah! Is it an 'o'? Is your talent spelling?” Scootaloo also guessed.

“Or is it a ring? Are you a jewelry maker?” Sweetie guessed again.

“Or is it a powdered donut? 'Cause that sounds delicious.” Twist asked as she got raced in between the other Crusdaers.

“No, it's a loop-de-hoop!” Apple Bloom corrected as she presented a big gray hop around her body to which she flawlessly performed as Scootaloo brightly gasped with a smile.

“A what now?” Scootaloo then asked in confusion.

“A loop-de-hoop!” Apple Bloom clarified. “'Least, that's what I always called it. Applejack made it for me from an old rain barrel when I was littler! Who woulda thought that loop-de-hoop would end up bein' my special talent?”

“Wow, Apple Bloom, that's amazing!” Sweetie Belle complimented.

“That's it? That's your talent?” Diamond Tiara voiced with contempt.

“Spinning a hoop around your waist? Puh-lease.” Silver Spoon added in a condescending manner.

“Oh, you ain't seen nothin' yet.” Apple Bloom stated as she performs a series of moves that involve swinging it around her body before sending it flying up to the flag post where it would roll all the way down towards her as she flings it back up into the air where she then jumps up into mid-air to catch it.

Everyone all cheered for her accomplishment as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon both were left proven wrong and jaw-dropped at what they have seen.

“I don’t know how to tell you this but…” Gumba began as he appeared on Diamond’s back.

“Burn!” Shauku stated as he shouted in the fillies ears before laughing along with the rest of their friends.

“Apple Bloom, you're super-duper-loop-de-hooper!” Scootaloo proudly complimented as she flapped her wings.

“Thanks, everypony!” She said to everyone as the school bell rang signaling the start of class.

“All right, my little ponies, time for class!” Cheerlie called out to everyone as she and Rafiki come outside of the building and see that everyone is aweing at the sight of Apple Bloom to the point that didn’t hear a word she said.

After glancing at each other in confusion the two walk over towards the crowd.

“Apple Bloom?” Cheerlie called out to her with a serious expression.

“Uh oh.” Mtoto silently expressed to the others.

“Sounds like trouble.” Kwato added as she too noticed the stern tone she was addressing her in.

“Yes, Miss Cheerilee?” Apple Bloom nonchalantly replied.

“I want you to take your loop-de-hoop into the yard...” Cheerlie began as the other kids cringed with what they think of what she is about to say until she added… “…and give us all a lesson in your amazing loop-de-hooping!” in excitement as everyone all cheered in delight.

“That was unexpected!” Kambuni whispered to the others.

“Who cares?” Gumba replied as he really got very interested in the filly’s new talent. “A whole day of learning fun!”

“Aw, well. Hakuna Matata.” Rafiki just let it slide as everyone watched as Apple Bloom performed for everyone.

So with that Apple Bloom was walking in front of the class who all had hoops of their own so they can try their luck at it.

Snips ended up losing control of his ring which sent it flying away until Apple Bloom caught and sent it right back at him who blushed to thank her.

Both Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon tried their luck at it yet it didn’t take long for them to lose control and fall over to which the Pride Landers silently giggled to themselves as they enjoyed every moment of karma inflicted on them for the way they have been treating the girls for not having cutie marks.

“Don't worry, gals. Keep at it and you might get to be half as good as me!” Apple Bloom reassured them with a back hoofed complimented to which the girls growled in response to that as the other Pride Landers laughed at them.

“BURN!” Gumba and Shakku exclaimed to them as they both pouted to which the mongoose and baboon shared a high-five together as they along with the other Crusaders try to get the hang of it.

“Great job, girls!“ Apple Bloom complimented them for their efforts even though they really are struggling with it.

“You're too kind, Apple Bloom.” Sweetie returned feeling they don’t deserve it.

“Yeah, we stink.” Scootaloo agreed.

“Nah, you just need a little practice.” The talented filly said otherwise. “Soon you'll be able to...” She added as she spun the hoop around her legs before kicking it up into the air so she can jump over it. “…hoop and bop! Hoop and hop! Hoop and skip! And hoop and flip!” She added as she used the hoop as a jump rope along with doing backflips on it.

Everyone but the jealous glaring rich girls all cheered for her as she continued spinning the hoop around her waist.

“Show us some more, Apple Bloom.” Cheerlie asked of her.

“Well, all right, just a few more tricks.” She agreed. “But be warned! These are advanced moves, not for beginners. Got that, Diamond Tiara?” She added as she got in the filly’s face as both Shakku and Gumba stated in her face…

“BURN!” For the third time as she growled back at them as they high-five each other.

“I call this one the hoop-la!” She presented to everyone as she spun the hoop around her tail as fast as a helicopter’s propellers and carried her up in the air.

Then suddenly another cutie mark appeared on her flank with her sudden talent in performing tricks with the hoop suddenly vanished and caused her to plummet back into the ground.

Thankfully, Mtoto caught her before she could hit the ground as everyone eyes the new sight on her flank.

“Another cutie mark? Hah!” Diamond wasted no time in pulling the trigger at her. “I guess that last trick was a lot of hoopla. Those cutie marks are fake!” She accused in her direction as everyone gasped.

“What? No they're not!” Apple Bloom protested.

“And how would you know?” Kambuni said in her friend’s defense. “Do you even know what your special talent is?”

“Does that even matter?” Diamond dodged answering it as she turned to their teachers. “Miss Cheerilee, Mr. Rafiki, have you ever heard of a pony with two cutie marks?”

“I must say that I never have, but maybe Apple Bloom has two special talents!” Cheerlie could only say as Rafiki could only scratch his beard as he thinks something is off here.

“Can’t say that I have.” Rafiki could only say as he pondered the thought.

“Oh yeah? Then let's see you do that!” Silver Spoon challenged the filly as Mtoto turned to face her.

“Come on, now! There’s no need to gang up on her!” Mtoto insisted of her to back off as Snips and Snails went ahead and tossed her sticks and plates for her to spin.

“Spin plates!”

“Yeah!”

The two encouraged her as she immediately got the hang of it much to everyone’s astonishment.

“Two cutie marks?”

“Two talents?”

“Aw yeah!”

The girls expressed their wide-eyed amazement at this discovery.

“Our friend is the most...” Sweetie began as she and Scootaloo declared together that Apple Bloom is...

“...special pony ever!”

“Alright, everypony, You ready for a real show?” Apple Bloom offered as she lead the whole class into town while Rafiki doesn’t join them as he feels something is really strange about all of this.

In town is where the whole class watches in amazement of Apple Bloom’s wonderful abilities as the whole town of nearby ponies come over to watch the show of her mixing balancing spinning plates and balancing on her silver hoop. She rode on her hoop on her front and back hooves while having the plates spin themselves while she uses her tail to spin her hoop before using it cutting the cloud Rainbow Dash was sleeping on perfectly to the point she is just sleeping on a clear cut circle undisturbed.

When Twilight, Kion, Rarity, Fuli, and Sweetie Belle arrived, Apple Bloom tossed her hoop right at Twilight’s mane styling it just like Rarity’s who greatly admired it while Spike looked with heart-stricken eyes while Twilight herself wasn’t very amused as she returned an annoyed glance at her friends as Kion and Fuli giggled from behind.

Pinkie Pie who was happily walking through town when Apple Bloom approached from behind to which the pink mare then tripped over upon noticing her while Apple Bloom bounced over her and keep going just as the rest of the Apple Family arrived.

She spun her hoop around as she got side by side with her grandmother as Applejack whistled and bucked a table of pie plates with multiple pies sent her way for her to balance with to which she used her skills to serve everyone apple pie slices she sliced herself to which everyone enjoyed.

A pony with two cutie marks is quite a sight to behold. In fact, actually, probably a little too much to behold as she is unaware the problem is going to worse from there.

Later that night, the Apple family went back to Sweet Apple Acres to retire for the night.

“Yee-haw, little sis! Congratulations on gettin' not just one, but two cutie marks!” Applejack said to her little sister as she now has tired eyes yet the energy in spinning the hoop and spinning plates is still running high. “We're mighty proud of you, right, Big McIntosh?”

“Eeyup.”

“I've never seen anythin' like it. Have you, Big Mac?“

“Nnnope.”

“Why, the way you were a-hoopin' and a-hoppin' and kickin' and spinnin' reminded me of when I was a spry young filly.” She demonstrated as she stretched her only get a painful cramp on her sides. “Guh, charley horse, charley horse!” Big Mac quickly pressed a hoof on the sore spot to fix that. “Ooh, that's better.”

“Why, Apple Bloom, I think you're ready to hit the rodeo circuit right now!” Applejack then said to her little sister seeing of how tired she is looking yet still going.

“Actually, I'm ready to hit the hay right now. I'm plum tuckered.” She replied ready for sleep herself. “I'll see y'all in the mornin'. Night!”

“Night!” Applejack called after her as she went to bed. “Oh my, little Apple Bloom has finally blossomed, hasn't she, Big Mac?”

“Eeyup!”

Later in the middle of the night while Applejack was sleeping she suddenly heard rapid tapping sounds from the other room which woke her up.

“What in tarnation is that?” She wondered what is going on as she wakes herself up and leaves her room and sees the source is coming from her little sister’s room. “Apple Bloom…” She called out to her as she entered her room. “…what is all that awful... tapping?“ She then said with her annoyed expression turning into a more surprised one as she sees the girl undergoing nonstop tap dancing, plate spinning, and hoop spinning at the same time with a pair of red tap shoes on her flank. “Three cutie marks?!

“Help me!” She cried as she can’t stop herself from doing it as her bigger sister slightly winces her right eye at this startling display seeing that something is now definitely wrong. “Help me!”

“C'mere, you!” Applejack tried to snatch the hoop away from her tail but through some force of nature she got repeatedly smacked in the face by it and was shaken off when she tried to hold her in place to no avail. “Ow! Ow! Whoa!”

“I'm sorry, Applejack! I dunno how to make it stop!”

“Well, I know somepony who might!” Applejack resolved as they quickly make their way over to Twilight’s library who had Spike, Kion and Ono with her at the time.

“Hevi Kabisa! Three cutie marks. Three talents.” Kion noted.

“Hapana! I've never seen anything like it!” Ono noted just as mind-boggled as everyone else as Twilight makes her way over to her books.

“I was just reading something about unusual equine illnesses. What was it?” She wondered as she looked for the right book.

“"Perplexing Pony Plagues", perhaps?” Spike suggested with said book on hand.

“Yes, Spike, you're amazing!” Twilight thanked him as he landed on her back

“Yes, well, I do have some talents.” Spike boasted as he placed the book on her night stand.

“Hay fever... the trots... “ She examined as she gasped at finding what she was looking for. “Cutie pox!”

“Cutie pox?!” Applejack, Apple Bloom, Spike, and Kion all asked in unison.

“Of course!” Ono remembered from his earlier research. “I remember that!”

“Cutie pox. This puzzling pony plague afflicted a population of ponies back in the Paleopony Period!” Twilight explained to everyone as she read the book word for word.

“Heh, say that ten times fast!” Spike joked finding saying that funny as Twilight glared at him before continuing.

“Random cutie marks appeared all over the ponies' bodies, causing them to perform all the talents that came with them!”

“Just like me!” Apple Bloom exclaimed.

“Yes, but what's the cure? What's the cure?!” Applejack desperately asked before it gets worse as Twilight kept reading but found something surprising to which caused her jaw to drop and lower her ears as she regretfully answered.

“It says here there's no known cure!”

“No known cure?!” The others exclaimed in shock hearing this.

“The cause of the breakout was never discovered, and the cutie pox disappears as mysteriously as they arrived!” Twilight honestly explained to everyone as she reads the book word for word.

“Oh, no!” Apple Bloom said as another cutie mark appeared on her flank. “Sacré bleu! Plus de marques de cutie! Qu'est-ce c'est?! Je parle Français?!”

“My sister's speakin' in fancy!” Applejack exclaimed to Twilight seeing this is getting worse and worse by the second.

“Not just fancy! French fancy!” Ono corrected.

“She needs help!” Kion stated.

“I know she needs help!” Applejack stated back. “We can't just wait for this to go away! We gotta find somepony to mix up a cure! And fast!”

“Tout de suite!” Apple Bloom stated in French as Twilight thinks of someone they can turn too.

“Not some pony... some zebra!” Twilight stated as Applejack gets the idea.

“Zecora!”

“Ne vous inquiétez pas, Apple Bloom! Zecora saura quoi faire! Attendez!” Ono told the little filly as they all urgently make their way out the door. “I read a book about that language during my time reading with you, Twilight.” He then explained in English.

“Cool!” Twilight said with an impressed smile as they all head out to find Zecora.

The two ponies race ahead with Spike riding on the unicorn’s back with Ono flying ahead to find Zecora as Kion tries to urge the filly to pick up the pace as her tap dancing is causing her to lag behind.

“Hurry, hurry!” Applejack urged her.

“Dépêchez-vous!” Apple Bloom stated back as another cutie mark appeared and forced her to take a jackhammer to carve up a statue of a mare covering her personal parts with her long flowing beautiful mane while standing on a tree stump over a sea shell.

As soon as that happens another cutie mark appears to has her cleaning the chimneys before another cutie mark has her playing an accordion and then another cutie mark appears as she is taming and fighting off three fully grown lions by herself.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion just noted as they all see the cutie pox is now rapidly spreading as the cutie marks that appear on her body expand to playing chess and fencing while sharing a worried glance with Twilight and Applejack while Spike just sits back and helps himself to popcorn as he enjoys the show.

“She's cursed!” One pony stated as she is now walking on a tight rope.

“Hexed!” Another pony stated as she is now flying on a glider.

“Enchanted!” Another pony added as Spike decided to step forward to correct them.

“No, she's not.” She told the huddling mares who all sighed in relief until he said. “She just has some weird mysterious disease with no known cure called cutie pox.”

“Cutie pox?!” Everyone exclaimed before screaming and panicking as they all run back inside their houses leaving the entire town completely bare expect for the main cast as Ono, Zecora, Kyoga, and Rafiki arrive on the scene.

“Nice to see one thing everyone here has in common with all of the animals back in the Pride Lands.” Ono sarcastically remarked as Zecora approaches them.

“I thought I had removed their fear the last time that I visited here. But doors are barred and shutters shut. Guess I should've stayed inside my hut.” Zecora commented at the sight.

“It’s not that.” Kion quickly assured the zebra it’s not that case.

“Apple Bloom has cutie pox!” Twilight urgently pointed to the filly now writing down and solving complex math equations. “We were just on our way to see if you had a cure!“

“I see you got Ono’s message.” Applejack added as the bird saluted.

“Yep.” Rafiki nodded. “I was just wondering myself while little Apple Bloom suddenly had two cutie marks before I decided to bring the subject up to Zecora.”

“Indeed, it was a special flower that I needed found. I thought I picked enough to fix all the potions I had to mix, but after my visit from Apple Bloom, some had mysteriously left my room.” She answered as she turned to the filly in question with a stern expression as she is now lifting heavy weights with her tail. “Apple Bloom! What do you say? Did this flower just walk away?”

“I, um...” She remained hesitant to speak the truth as she is now scrubbing windows to which freaked the ponies inside into putting hazard masks on to protect themselves.

“Oh for Celestia’s sake.” Ono just smacked his wing on his forehead at this sight even though they are inside.

“A cutie pox cure I have forsooth, for healing power is in the Seeds of Truth.” Zecora said as she presented a few seeds from her pouch

“Well, well then give 'em to her! Quick!” Applejack urgently pressed her to do so.

“These seeds must be planted in the ground. With the truth, they'll grow, and the cure is found.” Zecora calmly replied as the others share a confused expression with each other.

“Come again?” Applejack asked.

“The Seeds of Truth do hold the cure, but one must speak words, true and pure.” She explained while eyeing that towards the filly for her admit what she has done if she cares to cure herself as she nervously gulped in response upon seeing that she knows the truth too.

“Well then let's get to it!” Applejack wasted no time in seeing to it that they are planted. “Alright, they're planted, now somepony tell the truth!” She then demanded as Apple Bloom continued performing the several cutie mark talents.

“Somepony! Anypony!” She called out to everyone nearby as no one would as they were all too afraid to do so while Pinkie and Bunga look on nervously as sweat drips from their foreheads as Apple Bloom is now spun around in tornado fashion.

“Yesterday I told Mrs. Cake that I ate two corn cakes, but I really ate three!” Pinkie confessed as the three nearby the plant all eye the seeds for something to happen but nothing did.

“Okay, okay, six! We each ate six corn cakes!” Bunga confessed as still nothing happened.

“Make it stop! Oh, make it stop!” The two desperately cried as they are both out of confessions to make as Kyoga just rolls her eyes as if anyone cares about that.

“Apple Bloom, are you sure you have nothing you want to say?” Rafiki calmly asked her.

“Because you look like you want to get something out.” Kyoga added.

At that point, Apple Bloom decided to come clean.

“Wah, I can't stand it anymore! It's me! I admit it! I didn't earn my cutie mark! They're all fake!” She admitted as the tornado spinning stopped as the seeds slightly grew. “I figured the Heart's Desire would help me get what I wanted most! So when Zecora left her hut, I mixed up a special potion and put the rest of the Heart's Desire in it!” She further confessed as the ponies nearby poke their heads out in time to see a flower growing and blooming from Apple Bloom’s confession to which sparked awe into everyone’s eyes as Apple Bloom quickly eats it.

Once that happened, all of the cutie marks had disappeared, thus curing her from the Cutie Pox.

“Apple Bloom!”

“Are you okay?”

Her Crusader friends asked as they approached her.

“I'm great, and I've never been happier to be a blank flank.” She expressed her relief before lowering her head in shame. “But I'm awful sorry I lied, 'specially to you gals. I was so desperate for my cutie mark, I just got carried away.” She apologized as she turned to Zecora to do the same. “And I'm really sorry I snuck those flowers from you, Zecora. Why, I wouldn't blame you if you never wanted me to come by again.”

“Now, Apple Bloom, do not be silly. You are always welcome, my little filly. With each mistake you learn something new, growing up into a better you.” Zecora assured there are no hard feelings and it’s all part of growing up and learning life lessons along the way as Twilight, Applejack, and Kion all smile proudly for her to let her know that she is now cured and that’s what really matters before seeing that she just disappeared in an instant.

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed. “How did she do that?!“

“Who knows.” Rafiki replied with a shrug along with Kyoga. “It’s a mystery.” He laughed.

“Apple Bloom, would you mind writing to Princess Celestia and telling her what you've learned?” Twilight then asked of her.

“I'd be happy to, Twilight!” She happily replied. “Spike?”

“Ready!” He stated as he presented a paper and quill pen.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Waiting for what your heart desires can be really hard. So, you may try to take a shortcut. But this dishonesty never works, because you didn't earn what your heart desired. The only cure is being honest with yourself and others. And that's something every heart desires.”

“I sure am proud of you, sis.” Applejack commended. “Seems like you finally learned the importance of patience.”

“Yup! All good things come to those who wait.” She happily replied before instantly deciding… “Well! I've waited long enough.”

“Actually, that was way too long.” Scootaloo agreed as surprise sparked in their older friends eyes and faces.

“What?!” Applejack asked in shock.

“So what are we gonna do today to earn our cutie marks?” Apple Bloom asked her friends.

“Well, I was thinking, for a pony who's never mixed up a potion before, you sure stirred up something fierce.” Scootaloo proposed.

“Yeah! So what if your talent is potion making?” Sweetie agreed and thought.

“Oh my gosh, totally! Let's go talk to Zecora, now!” Apple Bloom eagerly said as she led the way back to the Everfree Forest.

“Yeah!”

“Woo-hoo!”

The other two girls cheered as they raced ahead with Kion pursing them.

“Girls! Wait for me!” He called out to them as the others just shake their heads somewhat disapprovingly at the sight of an important lesson going in one ear and out the other.

“Someday soon they will get it.” Rafiki assured everyone else. “They are all still young.”

“True.” Kyoga agreed. “Since they learned it enough they might as well go ahead and break a hoof out there.”

Everyone all shared a laugh together at her sarcastic quip finding it pretty funny and that she actually managed to crack a joke.

Author's Note

In this episode, not much to explain here as Apple Bloom hatches a little devious scheme as she creates a potion that enables her to gain her cutie mark sooner.

What she didn't realize until too late was the concoction she created gave her cutie pox which required some help from her friends along with confessing to what she did in order to receive the cure.

Along with that adding the kids playing pretend Lion Guard joining the girls in bowling and standing up to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon to show they have become great friends willing to be there for them when needed.

Even with a valuable lesson learned, true to form it didn't last long as the Cutie Mark Cruadsers hatch for another quick-talent finding idea in trying to obtain their cutie marks.

Next up is "Trouble with Galoagos" where the Guard comes across a leopard that needs help standing up to a bully forcing him out of his home.

Episode 10: The Trouble with Galoagos

Episode 10:

The Trouble with Galoagos

The Pony and Lion Guard happily relaxed at Hakuna Matata Falls after their uneventful morning patrol. Beshte stood in the small lake, while Fluttershy played with some birds, Fuli rested on a slab of rock far away from the water. Ono was perched on the branch above Fuli and near the water laid Kion, Kyoga and the other girls.

Meanwhile, Bunga was showing off the many dives he's made up since living at the falls.

The honey badger jumped off the high branch near the waterfall and did two flips in the air before breaking the water in a cannonball, splashing the group near the water. “Agh! Bunga, darling! Must you do cannonballs near us!” Rarity whined, shaking the water out of her fur along with Kyoga.

The honey badger resurfaced and climbed back up the same tree to do another dive. "Of course I do and you're gonna love this one!" Bunga laughed, jumping on his diving branch. "I call it the splash-less triple spin-a-rama dive." he ran to the edge of the branch and dove off, shouting "Zuka Zama!" as he did three flips then dove into the water, this time no splashing.

"You barely made a splash." Ono noted with a laugh.

"Nice one, Little B." Beshte complemented, swimming up to the badger once he resurfaced.

"Yeah." Fuli agreed, tapping her tail on the stone. "That's one dive even I can appreciate."

“Me too.” Kyoga agreed.

Bunga shrugged his shoulders, "What can I say? When ya got it, ya got it." he boasted. "You want me to teach ya?"

"That's okay." the cheetah declined. Bunga gave a half-content sigh before he climbed up the tree, rubbing his palms together in preparation for another dive.

"Lion and Pony Guard!" a high-pitched, panic stricken voice called out. "Lion and Pony Guard! Help!" More voices screamed. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, a small group of brown-furred primates ran right for the Guard members.

Kion jumped to his feet, "Hevi kabis-" he was cut off when Laini, the galago leader, jumped onto his muzzle. "Please say you'll help us, Kion!" she shrieked. "Please, oh, please, oh, please!"

Two more of Laini's group came running towards Bunga, knocking him into the lake, which splashed Fuli, much to her annoyance.

Adding insult to injury, two more infant galagos jumped onto her head and clung to her ears. "Hey, hey!" the cheetah shook her head, "Easy on the ears!"

Bunga climbed out of the lake, holding two more galagos, "Hey, there, little gally-ally-go." he grinned down at the small primates.

"Laini, what's the kerbubble?" Beshte questioned, swimming up to shore. "What's gotten all you galagos so upset?"

"Oh, nothing." Laini gave a nervous chuckle, "Just that...a leopard moved into our trees!" she screeched, clinging to Kion's muzzle.

"A leopard?" Kion repeated, the two galagos clinging to her shoulders nodded their heads in confirmation.

"What?" Fuli yelled. "What did she say?"

Ono flew down from the branch he was perched on, landing next to Kion’s paws. "But the Pride Lands doesn't have any leopards." he informed.

"It does now. He climbed up into our tree this morning." Laini informed. "And he wants to eat us! So will you help us, Kion? Huh?" she asked, looking right into the prince's amber-brown eyes. "Speak up!"

Kion tried to speak, but it came out muffled. "Uh Laini, he can't really speak up since you're on his muzzle." Kyoga told her, leaning in closer to the female galago.

"Oh." the furry primate blinked, climbing up the bridge of Kion's nose to the top of his head, sitting on his mane. "Sorry."

The golden-furred cub let out a sigh, "Of course we'll help you." he agreed.

"Yeah, we'd never let a leopard eat you guys." Beshte added.

"Eating flies?" Fuli blinked, her voice still louder than everyone else's. "Who's eating flies?"

Kion looked upwards at the galago on his head, "Stay here." he ordered. "We'll go get the leopard out of your tree. Sounds good?"

"Oh, I don't know." Laini shrugged. "We were hoping we could stay with you. Nothing can hurt us if we're with the Lion Guard."

Fuli continued to swat at the two babies on her ears, getting annoyed. "Will someone get these galagos off my ears, so I can hear what's going on?!" she yelled.

A second later, Bunga yanked one of the galagos from her ear, "You didn't miss much." the badger informed the cheetah. "They want to stay with us."

"Please?" the infant galago pleaded, looking up at the cheetah with wide eyes.

"No way." Fuli shot down, using her hind leg to knock the other galago off her right ear.

"Oh, come on, Fuli. They're not so bad." Bunga chuckled.

Kion lowered his body so the two galagos on him could easily jump off, "You and the other galagos will be safe here." the Guard's fiercest noted. "A lot safer than if you're with us, when we take on the leopard."

"Oh, good point." Laini agreed.

A wailing in the distance caught everyone's attention.

"Now what?" Kion sighed heavily and rolled his eyes. "Ono."

"On it." the keenest of sight saluted and took to the sky, following the sound of the wail. He had to take a few seconds longer than normal to comprehend what he saw, before reporting back to the Guard.

"There's a giraffe stuck in a tree." he reported, landing in front of Kion.

"A giraffe stuck in a tree?" Twilight repeated, blinking.

"Are there still galagos on my ears?" Fuli questioned, exchanging a confused glance with Twilight.

"That is what I said." Ono replied. "It's... He's... Oh." he stuttered, taking flight once more. "You've gotta see it for yourself."

"Lion and Pony Guard, let's go!" Kion ordered, looking to the rest of his friends.

"But the leopard!" Laini squealed. "You promised you'd get the leopard, Kion! You promised!" she tugged on her ears, her eyes wide.

"And we will, right after we help the giraffe." the lion prince assured. "Then we'll come back here for you."

"Okay." the galago leader grinned. "Thank you, Kion."

The Guard's fiercest gave a nod before taking off with the rest of his team.

"Till the Pride Lands' and Equestria’s end...Lion and Pony Guard defend!"

The Guard rushed across the grasslands towards the Acacia Savannah, all of them skidding to a halt when they saw what Ono had reported. Fuli let out a giggle, standing beside the lioness, "It really is a giraffe stuck in a tree."

"Like my dad says..." Beshte followed. "Live long enough and you'll see everything."

Shingo tried pulling himself free when he noticed the Lion Guard approaching him. "Oh, uh, hi." he greeted, embarrassed.

"Shingo?" the Guard's strongest questioned. "What happened?"

"I was just trying to get to the last of the acacia leaves." the male giraffe answered. "They're so good." He stuck out his tongue to try and get a small patch of leaves a few branches above him, which ended up getting it stuck as well.

"Don't worry, Shingo. We're on it." Kion told him.”Rainbow, Fluttershy?” The two Pegasus ponies flew up and grabbed the branches that were poking the giraffes fur. They pulled on them making an opening for her to break free.

“Thank you Lion and Pony Guard.” Shingo smiled.

"Help us!" screamed the galagos as they came running towards the Lion Guard. Laini jumped on Kion's muzzle once more, the four infants latched onto Nyota's legs, and two adolescent ones ran up Shingo to lunge into Bunga's arms.

"I thought we told you to wait at Hakuna Matata Falls." Kion reminded, staring down at Laini who had jumped off him. "What happened?"

"Everything was fine at first. But then we heard this sound." the lead galago replied.

"Was it the leopard?" Beshte asked, worried.

"No, it sounded like this." Laini demonstrated the sound by blowing a raspberry.

Bunga hopped down from the tree, still holding the two adolescent galagos. "Yep. That'd be my Uncle Pumbaa." he chuckled.

"And then there was this horrible smell." Laini added, covering her nose with her small hand.

"Definitely Pumbaa." Ono agreed, perched on Kyoga's back. The lioness cub let out a giggle,

"Well, Pumbaa's not gonna hurt you."

"Kyoga's right Laini." Kion nodded. "You and the galagos should go back to the falls. It's safer there."

"Oh, we have to stay with you. Please." The female galago's eyes widened as he clasped her hands together, begging.

Not seeing another choice, and because when the rest of the galagos repeated Laini's expression, the Guard agreed to bring the galagos along with them back to Ndefu Grove.

"Okay, galagos. We'll be right over there at your tree." Kion informed, motioning to the tree where a leopard was currently sleeping in. "Stay here."

"Be careful, Kion." Laini warned. "The leopard is fierce. Really fierce."

A smirk crossed the prince's muzzle. "Don't worry, so am I." he replied.

The galagos hopped off Beshte's back and hid in the bushes nearby as the Lion Guard slowly approached the tree, the leopard snoring loudly.

"Surround the tree." Kion whispered, glancing to each member of the Guard. "When he wakes up, we want to be ready."

“Relax, Kion. I got this.” Kyoga said, approaching the tree.

“Kyoga, be careful!” Fluttershy fretted.

“Relax, Fluttershy. Besides, I know this leopard.” Kyoga replied.

“You do?!” The two Guard members exclaimed in shock as Kyoga nodded and went over to the tree,

“Hey! Badili!” Kyoga called, waking the leopard up with a shock and he fell on the ground. “Wah! Oof!” The leopard, now known as Badili opened his eyes and saw Kyoga,

“Oh, hey Kyoga.” Badili greeted happily. “How have you been.”

Badili was an average sized leopard with pale cream-colored fur, dappled with brown rosettes outlined in black, a small tuft of brown hair on his head. He had pointed ears, with dusty brown inner coloring, rimmed in darker brown, thick, dark eyebrows and almond-shaped brown eyes, and a dull taupe-brown nose.

Ono flew down from the tree and landed in front of Kyoga, "Hang on, are you the big, scary leopard?" he inquired.

"No! I'm Badili." the leopard introduced. "The big, friendly leopard."

"If you're so friendly, why'd you scare away the galagos?" Fuli questioned with a quirked brow.

"Galagos?" Badili repeated. "What are galagos?"

"They're the animals who live here." Beshte informed.

"You took their home." Kion added, motioning to the little primates hiding in the bushes. When Badili smiled and waved at them, they shrieked in fear at his sharp claws. "They're a little scared of you." the lion prince informed.

"Oh, they shouldn't be." Badili replied, his ears flat against his head. "I didn't mean to take their home. I just didn't have anyplace else to go." He looked down at his paws.

"What about your home?" Twilight raised her brow, "You're a leopard. Don't you have your own territory?"

Badili nodded, "Yeah, it's in Mirihi Forest." he answered.

"Mirihi Forest." Twilight repeated. "Isn't that in the Back Lands?"

"It is." the keenest of sight confirmed.

"Yeah, but I really like it here in the Pride Lands." Badili grinned, chuckling nervously. "The trees are more comfy. Say, I've got an idea!" he perked up. "Maybe the galagos and I could share the tree?" he suggested. "We'd have all kinds of fun together, right?"

The galagos let out another terrified scream, seeing Badili's sharp fangs. "The leopard is not staying in our tree!" Laini said sternly.

"The galagos are right, Badili." Kion agreed. "You need to go back home."

Badili let out a low sob, "Do I really have to?" he cleared his throat, "I mean...are you sure you don't wanna keep me around? I'm lots of fun." he chuckled, turning towards the two females and bird, "I'm great at games! Wanna play tag?"

Fuli and Kyoga jumped back, "Not with those claws." they muttered in unison as the cream-furred cub locked eyes with the leopard,

"Badili, is there a reason you don't want to go home?" she asked.

"What? No, don't be silly. Of course I want to go home." Badili chuckled nervously. "It's my home. I just, you know, uh, wanted to try a new home for a while." he gulped.

Kyoga raised an eyebrow at Badili, “Let me guess… he came back again?”

“He?” Kion and the others repeated, while Badili folded his ears back and shyly nodded at Kyoga. Kyoga sighed and rolled his eyes, “Come on, let’s go Badili.” Kyoga walked off with Badili following her.

“There problem solved, let’s go.” Bunga said.

“Hold it Bunga, something’s going on here that we’re not seeing.” Twilight spoke.

“Twilight’s right. Kyoga said that ‘he’ came back again. It’s like she knows the reason as to why Badili’s suddenly in the Pridelands and not back home. Let’s follow them and see what’s the problem.” Kion suggested and the Guard nodded and followed their friends.

"Mirihi Forest, just ahead!" Kyoga stated.

"Great! That's fantastic!" Badili exclaimed, although his expression was less than joyous as they reached his territory. Badili and Kyoga approached his tree before Badili started scratching it, marking his territory when suddenly another leopard jumped out and let out a roar. "Mapigano!" Badili yelped, his ears falling against his head.

The other leopard known as Mapigano let out a cackle, "What's the matter, Badili?" he laughed. "Scare ya?"

"Um, maybe a little." Badili replied meekly.

“I thought I told you, this ain’t your tuft anymore!” Mapigano growled.

“I know, I know, but-”

“So get out!” Mapigano demanded.

Mapigano glared down at Badili and continued to belittle him. From the bushes, Beshte shook his head, "That Mapigano is not a nice leopard." he noted.

"Not at all. That fellas' a big bully." Applejack pointed out.

"He's a big party pooper." Pinkie Pie added.

"Yeah, but Badili can't just let him take over his home." Fuli added, her eyes still on the two leopards.

"I think he already did." Ono sighed.

"All of this is my turf now." Mapigano reminded with a snarl. "So you need to scram. Again."

“Or I can just make you scram again…” Kyoga stated back.

“Ha! You brought your little lion friend here again?! Is she always going to bail you out, Badili?” Mapigano mocked before he laughed.

“Mapigano, you already know how this will end, so just save yourself the trouble and leave…” Kyoga deadpanned.

Mapigano rolled his eyes as he conceded in defeat, “Ugh fine, Kyoga. But you can’t keep covering for Badili forever.”

With that he went away from Badili’s territory and Badili sighed in relief.

“T-Thanks Kyoga.” Badili smiled.

“Your welcome, but Badili, you need to start trying to stand up for yourself. I’m not always going to be around to help you chase away Mapigano, I told you this before, remember?” Kyoga replied.

“Yes, but you’re way different than me. You’re a fierce female lion. Even with your injured leg, you can stand up for yourself no problem. I’m just a nice leopard who wants to be left alone.” Badili replied.

“Poor Badili…..” Rainbow sighed.

“Yeah, he’s like a leopard version of Fluttershy…without the Stare or assertiveness.” Pinkie Pie added.

“The poor guy doesn’t know how to stand up for himself.” Kion replied.

“So he just allows Kyoga to do the standing up for him with his Mapigano bully.” Twilight added.

“But Kyoga’s right. She can’t always be around for the darling leopard. If that ruffian comes back he’ll just kick him out of his home again.” Rarity added.

“Well… how about we help him with that..” Kion replied. The Guard nodded together and they slowly came out the bushes. “Hey Kyoga, Badili.” Kion called, grabbing the pair’s attention.

“Oh hey guys.’ Badili greeted again.

“Hey.” Kyoga sighed. “So I’m guessing you saw our little confrontation?”

“Yes and it was kinda more your confrontation, Kyoga rather than Badili's.” Fuli replied.

"Badili, we overheard your conversation with Kyoga and in a way, she’s kinda right. She not helping you by scaring that other leopard away for you everytime he comes into your territory." Twilight gently said, looking Badili in the eyes, "We need to teach you how to stand up for yourself."

"You mean, teach me to fight?" Badili gulped. "I don't know if I can do that."

"You don't have to." Rainbow shook her head. "Kyoga didn't have to fight Mapigano when she scared him away."

"Have you met Kyoga?" Badili pointed out.

"Fair point.” Fuli replied.

"But I will back down." Badili admitted. "I'm not confident like you guys."

"The only reason we're confident is because we believe in ourselves." Kion told him.

"How am I gonna do that? I'm not like you." Badili looked to each member of the Guard. "You're the fiercest, bravest, fastest, strongest and keenest of sight." he lowered his head and stared at his paws.

Kion lowered his head, "Badili, look at me." she said calmly, the leopard doing so. "Mapigano is picking on you because he knows you'll back down."

Beshte walked up to stand beside his new friend, "But you can still be nice and stand up for yourself."

"Beshte's the perfect example." Kion noted. "He's a super-nice guy, but he's still confident."

"And you can be, too." the Guard's strongest encouraged.

"But...how?" Badili asked, not really believing he could.

"I think we can help you there." Kion answered.

"Yeah!" Fuli agreed, speeding up to the leopard. "Rainbow Dash and I can help you learn to be fast on your feet."

"And Applejack and I can help you get stronger." Beshte added.

"I'll teach you to be brave!" Bunga grinned.

"And I'll teach you to be... " Ono began to say, as he flew around the group before landing on a small rock. "Huh. I can't really teach you to be keener of sight."

"Oh! I can teach you how to party!" Pinkie Pie cheered, bringing out her party cannon.

"I don't think that'll help Badili, Pinkie Pie." Twilight dismissed gently to the party pony.

"Ono, you and Fluttershy can help Badili with eye contact." Kion suggested. "Looking someone in the eyes lets them know you're confident and fierce." he grinned.

Badili nodded in understanding, "It sounds great, but I'll never be as good as you guys at all that stuff."

"You don't have to be." Fuli replied.

"Fuli's right." Bunga agreed.

"As long as you believe in your own abilities, you'll be confident enough to stand up to Mapigano." Beshte smiled.

"You really...think so?" Badili questioned, looking between his new friends.

"We know so." Kion answered.

Badili took a deep breath and exhaled, "Okay. Let's do it!" he grinned.

Find Your Roar

So the Guard split up to help Badili in the areas that played to their strengths. Rainbow and Fuli helped Badili get fast on his feet, easily dodging her attacks, while Applejack and Beshte helped him get stronger by pushing some small boulders over a ledge.

Intially it took some time to get the leopard's mind in the game and up to speed as he got easily distracted by a butterfly to which Fuli rolled her eyes while Rainbow face-hooved herself in annoyance. In addition, Badili had trouble moving even smaller rocks than Applejack and Beshte can easily push to which Beshte and Applejack shared worried looks upon seeing. But Badili was eventually able to press forward and push the rocks off of the ledge as well as kept his full focus on keeping pace with Fuli and Rainbow Dash.

Ono and Fluttershy worked with Badili's eye contact and how to stand strong in the face of the enemy, while Bunga helped with Badili's bravery by randomly sneaking up on him and yelling.

Likewise, Badili was easily spook at the simplest non-scary looks Ono and Fluttershy gave him as he quickly turned around and buried his paws into his face. He was even scared of seeing himself try to be intimidating. And even Bunga was easily able to scare him when jumping out into the open by surprise.

But likewise, Badili was able to improve himself to the point he could growl and keep eye contact with Ono and Fluttersh and growl back when Bunga tried to jump scare him again.

Once they were all confident enough, Badili put his training to use by going up against Kion and Twilight as Ono moves his wing in front to signal for the three to stare off into each other's eyes.

Kion let out a low snarl, trying to intimidate Badili along with Twilight as she gives the leopard a glare in his direction with her horn lighting up, but it didn't work. The newly confident leopard unleashed his roar, and the Lion Guard cheered for their friend.

"What do you think, Badili?" Kion asked, "Ready to face Mapigano?"

Badili turned to face the Guard, "I can't wait." he replied, his voice laced with confidence.

The Lion Guard walked with Badili back to his home in Mirihi Forest. "So when you talk to Mapigano, what do you do?" Ono asked, flying next to Badili.

"I speak calm and strong." Badili replied, keeping his head held high. "I stand tall, and I look him in the eyes."

"And if he calls you a mean name, what do you say?" Beshte walked up to him.

"I say, 'My name's Badili. Use it'." the leopard smiled.

“And what if he tries to scare you?” Bunga asked.

“He’s not scary, he’s just a leopard, same as me.” Badili replied.

"Better believe it." Kion nodded. "Now go take back your turf."

The rest of the Guard watched as Badili strode up to his tree, keeping his head held high. "We're gonna stay and watch, right?" Bunga asked.

"Wouldn't miss it for the whole savanna." Kion answered, the Guard rushing to hide in the bushes to get a view of their new friend.

Badili ran into his tree, shaking it to wake up a snoring Mapigano. "Huh? What?" the red eyed leopard snorted. After a few more hits, he fell to the ground, flat on his back. "Wha...what just happened?"

"I happened." Badili answered with a smirk.

"I'm totally gonna use that line." Bunga whispered from his spot behind the bushes, standing in front of Kion.

Mapigano let out a laugh, "Back again, Badili? Where’s your little lioness friend?" he questioned, looking around. "Did you bring her along to stand up for you again?"

The newly confident leopard shook his head, "Nope. Just me." he replied. "This is my turf." he narrowed his eyes. "That means you have to go."

"Oh, yeah?" Mapigano chuckled. "And who's gonna make me?" he slowly approached Badili, baring his teeth. "You?"

Badili backed up against his tree, letting out a whimper. Mapigano roared and lunged for the whimpering feline, who ducked to avoid his attack, yelping. "That's what I thought." the red eyed leopard laughed at his cowering rival. "Same old Badili. You're nothing but a scaredy-cat."

"No...I... I'm not scared." Badili stuttered.

"This doesn't look good." Ono sighed, covering his eyes with his wing.

“Come on Badili…. Come on…” Kyoga thought, looking at her leopard friend.

"We gotta help him." Fuli suggested.

"No." Kyoga halted, placing her paw on the cheetah's shoulder. "Badili can do this himself."

Mapigano laughed at Badili again, "You sure look scared to me." he narrowed his eyes to intimidate the other leopard.

Badili took a deep breath and exhaled. "Well, I'm not." he rebuffed. "I'm not scared of you, Mapigano."

"Is that right?" he snickered, lunging forward, only to not make contact. "Huh?"

"You'll have to be faster than that." Badili chuckled, his tail swishing behind him. Mapigano let out another roar and lunged again, only for Badili to dodge by jumping on his tree branch. "See. I have confidence in myself. 'Cause I know what I can do." he chuckled again, jumping over Mapigano and staring him down. "And I'm not afraid to prove it."

"Oh, yeah?" Mapigano challenged, his voice breaking just a bit taken aback by this newly grown courage he's putting up. "Well...step a little closer and say that." he snarled as he challenged him.

Badili obliged and got right in his face, "Is this close enough?" he bared his teeth as the bully is now intimidated by him for a change. "Oh, was that too close?" Mapigano stuttered, trying to think of a comeback, only for Badili to cut him off for a change.

"I'm not scared of you, Mapigano. And I'll never be scared of you again." he stated, his voice full of confidence. "So you should go. Now." He unleashed his roar and Mapigano ran away with his tail between his legs. "And stay out!" Badili called after him.

"Way to go, Badili!" Kion praised as he and the Guard ran up to him.

"I don't think you'll see that guy again." Fuli laughed, a grin spread across her muzzle.

Badili let out a heavy sigh, "Could you tell how scared I was?"

"You kidding?" Bunga scoffed. "You looked nothing but brave!" he gently punched the leopard in the shoulder.

"I'm the keenest of sight, and what I saw was a leopard standing up for himself." Ono added, flying above their leopard friend.

“You did very well, Badili.” Kyoga grinned. “I’m happy for you. Now if another rival tries to takeover your tuft, you’ll be able to defend it.”

"I couldn't have done it without you guys." Badili admitted. "Thanks for believing in me."

Kion shook his head, "No. You believed in yourself." he reminded with a smile. "That's what really counts."

"And now that you have your turf back, we can let the galagos know it's safe to go home." Twilight added, turning to head back home with the rest of the Guard, leaving Kyoga behind a little before she started to follow, but not before turning back to see Badili leap into his tree and take a nap. Kyoga smiled, happy that her shy leopard learned to stand up for himself…. something she learned very early on in life.

Kyoga followed the Guard back to the Pridelands, failing to notice a faint glow on her right cheek.

Author's Note

For this episode, it's pretty much the Guard helping a friendly leopard stand up to a bully leopard driving him out of his home with each member using their best talents and abilities to teach him into being more confident in standing up for himself.

Kyoga herself because of her time in the Outlands has crossed paths with her before and has had stick up for her in the past. Something she had to learn in the past...

...which will come when we get halfway into Season 2.

In the meantime, next up is "May the Best Pet Win." where Rainbow Dash focuses on finding the pet that they become her best friend.

Episode 11: May the Best Pet Win!

Episode 11:

May the Best Pet Win!

On a bright and sunny day in Ponyville, Rainbow Dash is out flying around and busting some moves from going straight, doing loop de loops, and even doing a little back flying like she is swimming

“Ha-ha! Whoo-hoo! Yeah! Whoa!” She cheered and laughed as Owlowiscious appeared beside her in flight who hoots to her.

“Who? Oh, it's you, Owlowiscious. C'mon, try and keep up!” She friendly invited and challenged him to a little race.

Rainbow started off with the lead until Owlowiscious flew by as he flew ahead impressing the speedy peagsus as they are now both neck to neck as they fly through the clouds. She was fully impressed with what she was seeing. A flying buddy that can give her a run for her bits but as she twirled around and facing her racing opponent she found something rather surprising which brought their race to a complete stop.

“Winona? I mean... Winona's head?!” Rainbow questioned at the sight of the dog’s head on the owl’s body. “Um, is this weird, or is it just me?” She asked herself just as Winona’s head turned into the face of a bunny with the body of a crocodile. “Angel? Gummy?! Okay, this is officially beyond weird now and right on down to freaky town.” She then thought seeing that is something is wrong as the strange pet floated around and approached her with Rarity’s pet cat popping out of Angel’s mouth.

Seeing this really freaked Rainbow out as she lost control of her flight and plummeted to the ground into the dark black abyss.

“Yaaaaah!” She screamed as she fell before suddenly waking herself up on a tree with a pillow on her branch seeing Opal really hissing her claws at the other pets who are all down below the ground.

“Phew.” Rainbow sighed in relief while wiping the sweat from her forehead very thankful of what happened was really a dream. “Good thing that wasn’t Discord’s doing. I swear I am still feeling messed up from his magic.”

No sooner than she said it her friends all came over to regroup with their pets since they all were so eager for having fun together they all went ahead of them.

“Let's get this thing started!” Applejack said ready for their pet play date in the park today.

“Sincerest apologies, Rainbow, if our pets were bothering you.” Rarity apologized on behalf of their friends as her pet cat climbed down from the tree and landed on her back. “Say you're sorry, Opal.” She expected of her to do so as she met with a hiss as she turned away. “She's... sorry.” She then said to Rainbow.

“What are you all doing out here?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Why, we always round up our critters for a regular ol' Pony Pet Playdate in this park.” Applejack answered as she tossed her pet dog her fetching stick.

“Uh, you do?”

“Same time every week.”

“I thought you knew. You didn't know? She didn't know?” She said as she drew her hoof into the ground.

“Well, we had initially planned on inviting Rainbow, of course, except–“ Twilight began to answer before Pinkie rapidly explained as she interrupted as she popped her head in front of Twilight as she did the same to the others along with making Fluttershy nod her head.

“We were totally gonna invite you, Rainbow, then Twilight remembered that you don't even have a pet, and Rarity remembered that you really like to take naps in the afternoon, so Applejack figured you wouldn't be missing out on anything anyway, and Fluttershy and I nodded our heads in agreement like this.

“Oh, please don't be mad at us.” Fluttershy pleaded as her head continued with the forced nodding.

“Oh, I'm not mad.” She took it no problem. “You all are right. Not much point of a Pony Pet Playdate for me if I'm a pony without a pet, right?”

“Eeexactly. So, if'n you'll excuse us...” Applejack said as she continued throwing the stick around so Winona can catch and fetch it while everyone all play with their pets just in time for the Lion Guard to show for their play time at the park too.

“Hey Rainbow Dash!” Kion called out.

“Hey Kion.” She returned as Bunga came over with a baobab fruit in his paws as he tossed up and down.

“Wanna play some baobab ball?” The honey badger asked.

“Baobab ball? How do you play?” She asked.

“We’ll show you!” Bunga demonstrated as tossed the baobab they use as a ball to towards the another tree as the two race over to try to grab it with Bunga managing to catch it with Kion giving him chase as Beshte watches the ponies play with their pets along with Fuli and Ono race around the park loop.

The goal of their game is try to gain control of it while passing it along the way as they chase each other. Occasionally they find someone to pass the fruit with them for a little while before continuing.

“Wanna play?” Kion offered as Rainbow quickly flew over and snatched the fruit from his mouth. “Hey!”

“Oh yeah!” She stated as she tossed the fruit into her tail before flying off. “Better catch me if you this.”

“Oh it’s on!” He said as he and Bunga share a look seeing that she is quickly getting the hang of their little game as they try to keep up with her.

Rainbow was able fly around the park all while dodging nearby ponies while keeping the baobab ball in the air during the flight with her tail but then she got distracted as she couldn’t get the other ponies playing with their pets out of her mind as she ends up dropping the baobab ball while skidding to a complete halting allowing the two to catch up with her as Kion tackles her.

“Gotcha!” He playfully shouted as Bunga napped the fruit in his claws.

“What’s the matter, Peggy? Run out of speed?” He taunted as he juggled it with his claws as Rainbow flew by him. “Whoa!”

“Hey, now wait a minute! Just because I don't have a pet now doesn't mean I never want a pet!” Rainbow stated to the other girls which led to a sudden spark joy and excitement in Fluttershy’s eyes.

“Ohh! Y, y, Oh, really? You really want a pet? Really? 'Cause I've got so many wonderful choices at my house! Oh, and I know you'll just love them! And they'll love you! Oh, and you'll be best friends forever and ever! Oh!”

She was so excited she was literally dragging Rainbow to back to her house to which Rainbow decided to flap her wings to lift them up into the air more all while wearing an annoyed and deadpan expression on her face just as Fuli and Ono finish their lap around the park with Fuli winning and Ono panting as he finishes after her.

“Good race Ono.” She returned proudly with some humility.

“Yeah, good race.” Ono responded as he caught his breath. “Maybe if I slicked my feathers back I might get lucky next time.” He thought to himself.

“I wouldn’t count on it.” Fuli told him not to get his hopes as the egret groans knowing of how right she is deep down as he spots Fluttershy dragging Rainbow off in the sky. “Where are they going?”

“Back to her cottage presumably.” Ono replied. “Wanna find out what?”

“Race you there!” She agreed as she ran off ahead leaving Ono behind.

“Hey no fair!” He called after her as he tried to keep up.

Predictably, Fuli won of course, and by the time they got there they saw the two looking at the many pets in her backyard while singing to a delightful tune.

“Now, Rainbow, my dear, I cannot express my delight

It's abundantly clear

That somewhere out here

Is the pet that will suit you just right.”

Fluttershy sang as she flew over the rainbow-maned peagsus.

“I can't wait to get started, but first let me set a few rules

It's of utmost importance

The pet that I get

Is something that's awesome and cool.”

Rainbow sang of her desires of her dream pet.

“Awesome, cool, got it!” Fluttershy happily obliged as she continued singing while the Lion Guard’s Fastest and Keenest of Sight both watch.

“This should be interesting.” Fuli whispered to Ono.

“Affirmative.” He whispered back.

“I have so many wonderful choices, just wait, you will see.”

Fluttershy sang as she lightly tapped Rainbow on the nose.

“I need something real fast like a bullet to keep up with me.”

Rainbow sang as she flew up into the sky and back.

“Sure! How 'bout a bunny?

They're cutesy and wootsie and quick as can be.”

Fluttershy offered in song.

“Cutesy? Wootsie? Have you even met me?”

Rainbow declined in song a she scrunched her face.

“Rainbow, have faith

You see, I will bet you

Somewhere in here is the pet that will get you.”

Fluttershy assured in the song before leading her back to her cottage as a turtle nearby looking on towards Rainbow while looking a little as she just passes by him without a thoughtful glance.

“Come on, the sky's the limit!”

“Sky is good. I'd like it to fly.”

“Really? Because I think this widdle puddy tat has your name written all over it.” Fluttershy offered a white cat with blue eyes and a big bow in her hair like Apple Blooms who nuzzles her cheeks into Rainbow’s to which Fuli took secret interest in with slightly buttoned up eyes at the kitten’s adorableness. “Yes, he does. Aww, look, he likes you!”

“Pass.”

“I have so many wonderful choices for you to decide

There are otters and seals

With massive appeal.”

Fluttershy sang as she presented said animals.

“Otters and seals do not fly.” Rainbow refused without second thought unimpressed.

“Maybe not, but I've seen this particular seal catch ten feet of air when he breaches the water!” Fluttershy pointed out as the seal barked and clapped.

“That's it. I'm outta here.” Rainbow turned to leave as she nearly walked right into the turtle with Fluttershy stopping her from leaving.

“Wait! There must be a pet here

That will fit the ticket

How 'bout a ladybug, or a cute cricket?”

Fluttershy sang as she offered said creatures still certain that there is one in her garden that will be the perfect fit for her.

“Bigger. And cooler.” She responded as she kicked aside the turtle trying to tug her back leg in getting her attention to which Ono took notice of and felt sympathy for him cause deep down he really wanted to be her pet.

“Bigger, cooler. Right.” Fluttershy understood as she sang up another offer as she flew up to a nearby tree.

“I've got just the thing in that tree, Dash

Meet your new fabulous pet, Squirrely!”

She unveiled the branches like stage curtains to reveal a squirrel standing on a little podium on a branch with a purple sparkling stage curtain from behind.

“It's just a squirrel.”

“Not just any squirrel. A flying squirrel!” Fluttershy corrected as she tossed him up the air to show to her his wings that like them he can fly.

“...Yeah. So, like I was saying...” Rainbow replied still not satisfied as she lays out her terms in song.

“Fluttershy, pal, this won't cut it

I need a pet to keep up with me

Something awesome, something flying

With coolness that defies gravity!”

“I'm sensing you want an animal that can fly.” Fluttershy figured as she joined her friend who flew up into the sky.

“Ya think?” She returned thinking that should have been obvious from the start.

“Yep.”

“Common knowledge really.”

The two watching replied dully with matching expressions.

Nevertheless, Fluttershy remained certain there is a perfect fit for her here as she moves her choices to her pets that can fly as she gestures to them.

“I have plenty of wonderful creatures who soar in the sky

Like a sweet hummingbird or a giant monarch butterfly.”

“Better, but cooler.”

“I see. How 'bout an owl, or a wasp, or a toucan?

There's so many wonderful creatures the likes of that

There are falcons and eagles

They are both quite regal

Or perhaps what you need is a dark and mysterious bat?”

“Now you're talking!” Rainbow voiced that she is now liking what she is looking for as the turtle puts on a pair of sunglasses from his shell. “But instead of just one standout, now that's too many.”

“So many choices, and such riches aplenty.”

Rainbow sang of the many option she now likes to choose from.

“Not a bad problem to have, if you ask me.” Fluttershy return with no worries.

“The bat would be awesome, but the wasp I'm digging too

Do you have something in a yellow striped bat?”

She asked in song.

“No.” She replied before gesturing to her pink flamingo on the ground.

“I've got a hot pink flamingo, just dying to meet you.”

“What to do, what to do?”

Rainbow pondered in song as she thought of an idea as she flew all over the place.

“A prize! That's it! There's really just one way

To find out which animal's best

Hold a contest of speed, agility, and guts

That will put each pet to the test.”

“Don't forget style, that should be considered.”

Fluttershy reminded in song.

“Then we'll know for sure who's best of the litter.”

“The one who is awesomest cool.”

“Just like me

Can't settle for less, 'cause I'm the best.”

The two traded as they both finish their song together.

“So a contest we will see

Who's the number one, greatest, perfectest pet

In the world for me!”

May the games begin!”

“And may the best pet win!” Rainbow stated of how she’ll settle this as she lined the flyers behind her for the competition she has set in stone for them.

“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Fuli asked Ono as they watch this.

“That Rainbow doesn’t understand of how having a pet works.” He replied as he looked on at the downcast turtle being rejected by the blue peagsus.

“Yep.” Fuli replied as the kitten blue eyed kitten previously offered to Rainbow takes a liking to her by affectionately rubbing her cheek on her fore legs while purring and meowing. “Aww.” She couldn’t resist as she sees Ono giving her a knowing smile seeing that she gets it very well. “Don’t you dare say a word to anyone!” She quietly whispered to him to wipe off that silly grin with a slightly threatening tone.

“Affirmative.” He replied as he looked aside smiling to himself still can’t help but tease her for showing her soft side as everyone all gathers to witness Rainbow’s pet competition but not without pulling Fluttershy for a quick word.

Once her friends learned of what Rainbow was doing the Guard all got together for the show as the blue peagsus now wearing a black sports cap blows her whistle as everyone cheers for the competitors taking part of the challenges they are about to face.

“Shh!” She blew her whistle again to for them to quiet down before turning to the assembled animals in front of her while walking in front of them like a drill sergeant. “So! You all think you've got what it takes to be my pet, do ya? Well, we'll just see about that!” She glared at the pink ostrich who emitted a very literally long nervous gulp in response. “If any of you don't think you can handle it, bow out now before you humiliate yourself in front of your peers.” The ladybug lowered down as the message was truly delivered. “This competition isn't for the weak. You'd better be prepared to step up your game! You call that flapping?!” She then shouted in the butterfly’s face who flapped her wings the hardest she can do. “That's better. There's only room on Team Dash for one of you, and my future pet needs to be able to take it to the extreme! Any questions?” She asked as she flew up into the air.

“I got one. Does she understand what a pet really needs?” Applejack whispered to the others watching.

“Yeah, like care and attention, love and affection...” Twilight agreed as Winona slurped her lips on Twilight’s cheek. “Ugh! And breath mints!”

“Sorry.” The farm pony apologized. “But you do know she likes you?”

“Yes.” She acknowledged as Fuli and Kyoga smirk at the unicorn as to say “Been there before.”

“Not from the looks of it.” Kion honestly replied as Ono shakes his head thinking the same thing.

“Now, you just pay attention, and try your best, and–“ Fluttershy said to the turtle she brought to Rainbow Dash who wasn’t pleased with him.

“Seriously, Fluttershy! The turtle? What did you bring that thing here for?” She quickly dismissed him as he flinched in response to her pointing a hoof at him as Fluttershy wipe his shell clean with a white cloth.

“Technically he's a tortoise, and he's always dreamed of being somepony's pet.“ She explained as she placed a hoof around her shell and hugged him. “He just wants a chance to compete, he won't get in the way. You won't even know he's here.”

“No.” She replied after a slow moment of eye blinking.

“Oh, just let him try.” Fluttershy pleaded.

“Ugh, but there's no way he can possibly keep up. Look at him!” She demonstrated by easily flipping him onto his back.

“It won't hurt to let him try.” Fluttershy pointed out.

“But–“

“Just let him try?” She literally pressed his shell to get her to concede.

“Grrgh, ugh, fine!” She relented as she placed the turtle back onto the ground before Rainbow flew into his face. “But don't say I didn't warn you! This isn't a game, you know!”

Having made her message, she is now ready to start listing the terms of her competition.

“Alright, now these games will determine which one of you has the most important qualities I'm looking for in a pet. Speed. Agility. Guts. Style. Coolness. Awesomeness. And radicalness.” She demonstrated as she runs to a mountain and back leaving a fiery rainbow trail behind, pulls some twists and turns in dodging everyone while running back, creates a pony cloud of herself in the sky, and pulls up a pair of sunglasses.

“Aren't those all the same thing?” Twilight questioned.

“You would think that, Twilight.” She responded as she patted her on the head. “And that's why you would never qualify to be my pet.”

She flew off from the annoyed unicorn as she began the competition towards the nearby track.

“I’m sure glad I’m not.” She muttered under her breath as Bunga approached her getting an idea until Twilight quickly froze him with her magic. “Do not even think about?” She said to him about to try to pat her on the head like a dog before walking off to witness the first event of the competition where the main focus is...

“Speed!” Rainbow stated as everyone lines up at the starting line. “On your marks...” They all get ready to run… “Get set...” They are ready to take off…then she blows the whistle to signal the start of the race to which everyone but the tortoise all are running laps around the track with Rainbow examining each competitor as they pass by.

So far the falcon is off to a great start as the bird finished in first place while literally smoking the owl on the final lap while burning feather’s in its awake thus earning Rainbow’s attention along with the duck who finished second, still leaning on the bat, not so much on the butterfly, and unquestionably not towards the tortoise who only managed to cross the starting line as everyone else finished.

Next up was an obstacle course to test their agility. Rainbow saw the butterfly’s clean performance as a slight improvement but not quite her speed, wasn’t impressed with the flamingo who tripped up on one obstacle. She was indeed impressed with the toucan ability to clear the tunnel obstacle and saw the bat has much needed improvement to do.

Again sadly because he can’t climb up the tortoise was unable to do anything again, thus earned.

The hummingbird proven to be the most agile while the butterfly came in a close second after the toucan crashed out on one of the last obstacles and won the competition even with a half point docked from her score for falling over on the high five with Rainbow Dash.

Next up is Guts where the competitors all have to try to get Opal’s favorite toy mouse away from her and it’s easy as the cat is fiercely protective of her belongings and most of the competition was too scared to try to step.

All but the butterfly who managed to place her into a hypnotic trance that allows her to retrieve it and the tortoise who nearly trapped her under her cage while she was distracted.

Even though it didn’t earn her points in Rainbow’s eyes it’s the effort considering no one else would step up to the challenge that counts.

Next up was style as the pets all get together and pose with Rainbow Dash for photos from wearing sunglasses, to posing, to fencing, to dressing up, along with curling to which Rarity helped with all of picture set-ups from dressing them and Rainbow up along with taking the pictures.

The bat’s got swag, the hawk’s got posture, the hummingbird’s got the moves for fencing, the owl along with Rainbow dress up nicely, the falcon does well with curling, along with the butterfly’s simple photo shoot all earn them points.

Once again, the turtle did little to none in impressing Rainbow Dash with nothing up a pretty red ribbon on his shell.

Following that was coolness. An owl hoot sorta flies by with Rainbow, a duck quack doesn’t, a bat cry does, a toucan cry has room for improvement, the wasp’s buzzing not what she had in mind, the butterfly couldn’t utter a sound, the tortoise could only offer a cough. The hawk’s screech was impressive along with the bat’s sonic hearing, but not with the flamingo’s squawking nor the toucan’s, but saw the spark in owl’s 360 head turn while impressive yet disturbing, but still wasn’t looking the other way when the tortoise repeatedly pops in and out of his shell.

When it comes to radicalness, Rainbow wasn’t smiling at the duck’s tap-dancing nor the hawk’s knitting, or the hawk’s card playing trick, and was even snoring at the wasp’s puppet show. The bat however performing a musical number while shattering glass cups used for the performance did earn Rainbow’s attention but was docked some points because it wasn’t radical.

The tortoise never stops trying to please her by going as far as trying to do an impossible performance. An obstacle course involving a jump across a pool of sharks, through a moving guillotine, a loop de loop maneuver through a fiery hoop, across the net and across the set finish line, to which only lasted when he fumbled and fell on his back again when he attempted one step into his act.

At this point, Rainbow has had enough despite the sheer bravery and determination he has gone through all of this despite placing in last throughout most of the competitions.

“Listen, turtle...” She moved towards him to break the news to him.

“Tortoise.” Fluttershy corrected as she briefly popped her head from behind the curtain.

“Whatever!” She said before continuing. “You've had your fun, but I think you and I both know who made the cut and who didn't.” The turtle simply croaks and slowly blinks in response. “You didn't.” She answered while pointing out to the owl, hawk, eagle, and bat who all won the previous competitions as the other’s cheer for her as Fuli and Ono step forward towards the blue peagsus. “I mean... 'A' for effort and everything, you gave it your best shot, maybe I've got a gold star sticker around here somewhere you can have, but, seriously, go home.” She dismissed as the two approaches her with something to say. “Yes?”

“Listen, Rainbow Dash…” Ono began. “We know that you want a pet that likes the same stuff you do but think maybe you’re looking at this a little wrong?” He suggested.

“What do you mean?” She wondered where he is going with this.

“I mean have you even considered that maybe none of the flyers are what you are looking for but the tortoise instead?” He asked.

“What?” Rainbow expressed flatly.

“I’m just saying, I’ve been seeing that turtle all throughout the competitions and even though he always comes in last, he has the bravery, compassion, heart, and determination of what a true pet truly has and what you should be looking for.” Ono explained.

“And why would I think that?” She returned still finding it hard to accept.

“Because I’ve seen him show all of these characteristics all day while you were more focused on the qualities that represent what you are only looking out for.” Ono again answered.

“Look…” Rainbow replied with an understanding sigh. “…I know what you are saying but I just don’t see it.”

“Are you sure?” Fuli asked. “Even though I can’t fly? Cause even with that it didn’t stop us from being best friends with a very special bond together?”

“I know but…” Rainbow tried to respond when Fuli continues talking over her since she is not done there.

“And sure we don’t see eye to eye on some things such as me not liking mud and getting wet most of the time but even still we worked around our differences while always being there for each other. Something I’d think the Guard’s most loyal member would understand very well.”

Rainbow sighed without a counter argument as she pressed forward with the final deciding competition for the previous winners to determine her ideal pet while Fuli and Ono watch as the tortoise just hangs his head in defeat.

“And I’m sure for once we both see eye to eye on this one.” Ono whispered to Fuli seeing that they see that the tortoise is the perfect match for Rainbow Dash but her skewed views of what she is looking for is preventing her from seeing that.

“Agreed.” Fuli replied as she places the tortoise on her back as they all head on over to the site of the final contest…

“... a race against... me! Through Ghastly Gorge!” Rainbow declared with her adding… “Dun dun dun!” for dramatic effect.

The eagle screeches as she flies beside Rainbow Dash.

“Gesundheit.” She said to the bird before they go back to lower ground at the starting line where the others watch from above just as Ono places the tortoise alongside the other finalists.

“Actually, Ghastly Gorge isn't scary. It's fun.” Rainbow assured at least to herself. “Heh. I've flown through it a million times myself, so obviously I'll be at the front of the pack. But whichever of you make it across the finish line with me will have proven you can keep up with me, and will have earned the honor and glory of getting to be my pet!” She explained the terms before lining up with the others while not noticing the tortoise’s presence from Ono’s quick slip in and out maneuver while doing some final stretches and push-ups to prepare for the competition herself. “Ready? Setgo!” She stated as she gets out in front as everyone else follows her while the tortoise is the only one to move as he looks down upon the sight from down below before pressing forward.

Rainbow herself was clearly enjoying the flight as she picked up the pace to further challenge the flyers from behind as they all zigzag and turn by every obstacle thrown their way.

So far every one of them were performing well with the first obstacle being a windy tunnel to which all but the small bat performed well due to being small and unable to handle the strong winds but was able to press forward and keep pace along with the tortoise is still following behind from afar.

He was still determined to prove himself to Rainbow Dash no matter what and even if he finishes in last place again as the confident mare whistles to a tune while introducing everyone to the next obstacle the cactus patch complete with prickly plants and thorns in the area.

“Woo-hoo! Haha! Try to keep up! Can't catch me, ha-ha!” Rainbow called out to them as she led the way.

“C'mon, slowpokes! You wanna win, don't ya?” She further challenged them as they faced their next big obstacle.

The falcon leading the pack had some trouble having wings getting snagged by the prickly plants, the owl along with the hawk had trouble getting by the plants, and the bat was able to clear the obstacle quickly and efficiently due to his small size

“Oh! I forgot to tell you! Watch out for the Quarry eels! They don't like it when you get too close to their nests, like this. Whoa.” She then casually warned them as the nearby area showed said creatures are huge and live in the left-wing side of the nearby part of the cave.

Everyone all struggled as they all struggled not to get eaten by the red and purple scaled creatures as Rainbow treats this all as an easy breeze. The hawk just missed by a head, the owl and hawk got snagged by one of them as it took pulling themselves out of there to avoid getting eaten, while the bat nearby got eaten when one of the eels managed to nab the little guy. Thankfully the bat was able to get out of that.

“Easy, peasy, one-two-threesy! Right, guys?” Rainbow told them while she wasn’t watching where she was going to which she ended up crashing into the wall behind her while causing an avalanche accidentally. “AVALANCHE!” She screamed as the flyers all flew ahead while she ended up getting struck by a boulder.

She emerged fine for the most part but she finds that her right wing is stuck under a large boulder that fell on her. She struggled but couldn’t free herself as the flyers all went ahead without her.

“Hey! Whoaaaa! C'mon... no! Wait! Come back! Don't leave me! I'm the one who's supposed to win! I don't wanna end up stuck here... forever!” She called out to them as she started to panic at one of the worst possible things to happen to her. “Oh no, nonono, th-this can't be happening. Forever is way too long to be trapped in Ghastly Gorge. I mean, it's like, forever! Somepony! Anypony! Help me!” She desperately cried for help.

Just when she started to tear up she saw a shadow of someone which sparkled joy in her heart.

“Wahoo! My prayers have been answered! Oh, thankyouthankyoutha–“ She expressed gratefulness which stopped upon seeing the turtle managed to clear every obstacle from staying low to the ground all of the time. “You?! Oh no! Now I'm not only going to be stuck here forever, I'm gonna be stuck here forever with the most annoying turtle in the world!” She groaned as the turtle pays no attention to her complaints as he starts digging under the boulder holding Rainbow’s wing to the ground in order to get her off of there. “Gyh, I'm doomed. DOOMED, I tell you!”

At least until she saw that the turtle is actually managing to lift the rock up to free her wing. A sight than left her astonished even after all that’s been said and done. A sight that really got her thinking of what she was really looking for.

Over on at the finish line, the main cast cheers for all four flyers as they all cross the finish line with the falcon finishing in first place but then it started dying down when they realized something is not quite right here. And that’s Rainbow Dash, who they all expected to see first isn’t with them.

“Hm, something's not right here.” Kion voiced his concerns as he turned to the egret. “Ono, fly over there and find them.”

“Affirmative.” He replied as he examined the gorge as he spotted the crumbled part of the mountain than fell onto the path while Applejack quickly pulled out Twilight’s binoculars.

“Hapana!” He gasped.

“There's been an avalanche in there!” Applejack added.

“Rainbow!” Spike cried in horror at the thought as everyone worries about her while preparing to go down there and help save her until Ono then saw something else along with Pinkie Pie.

“Wait!”

“Look!”

The two exclaimed.

“It's the turtle!“ Fluttershy exclaimed.

“Tortoise!” The others corrected.

“Oh, whatever...” She responded not caring about that for now as Fuli stifles a chuckle.

“Talk about a reverse shift from our favorite animal lover.” She said to herself as they all see the tortoise making its way on over to the finish line before speaking up. “He made it through!”

“And he's carrying something on his back...” Twilight added.

“Ahh! It's Rainbow Dash! It's her! It's Rainbow!” Pinkie happily bounced up and down as they all cheer for them.

But since the tortoise by nature is moving rather slowly…

“Maybe we'd better go meet him halfway.” Beshte suggested as Twilight used her magic to move the finish line setup right in front of the tortoise so everyone can really celebrate his accomplishment in bringing Rainbow to them even when in bandages.

“Huh. Way to go, little guy!” Spike commended him with a pat on the head.

“Oh, thank goodness you're not hurt, Rainbow!” Twilight said in delight to see she made it out.

“Just my pride.” Rainbow returned as she dusted herself off.

“Well technically…” Bunga started to say until being glared at by Twilight and Fuli. “Technically there’s nothing to it.” He quickly added with a forced grin.

“Nice recovery. And smooth.” She said with hints of sarcasm.

“I certainly hope all of this dreadful dust was worth it!” Rarity expressed as she let loose a light sneeze.

“It sure was, if it means Rainbow gets to have her own little critter just like the rest of us from now on.” Applejack added as she petted her dog on the head to which the tortoise wondered what her decision is going to be.

“Uh... thanks.” Rainbow said to him as he hopped off. “What you did... I owe you one.”

As the two clap their front legs together, Fluttershy calls out to the peagsus.

“Rainbow! Your new pet is over here waiting for you!” Fluttershy told as the falcon who proved to be the most formidable flyer flew over and landed on her back to which Rainbow silently expressing second opinions of what she truly desires for her pet to be as the tortoise silently hangs his head feeling his heroic rescue won’t change anything.

“Oh... right... yeah... that.” Rainbow just said rather uneasy.

“What's the matter?” Spike asked as he noticed this.

“You got your perfect pet, right?” Bunga told her.

“The best of the best like you wanted, remember? It can fly and it's not a squirrel!” Fluttershy added. “Should we sing about it again?”

“A falcon sure looks good on ya, Rainbow.” Applejack agreed as Rarity took a photo to which startled the tortoise into popping his head back into his shell.

“Easy, fella. Nothing to be afraid of.” Rainbow assured as she comforted him before speaking what she has to say. “The falcon sure does look cool... he's absolutely everything I wanted in a pet.” She sighed as she sees a small tough choice here between the pleading tortoise and the proud falcon.

“But…” Fuli asked seeing there is more with the thought she and Ono are thinking.

“But I said whoever crosses the finish line with me gets to be my pet.” Rainbow answered.

“That’s true! You did!“

“You did say that! She did say that, that was the rule!”

Bunga and Pinkie quickly backed up that statement.

“And the only racer who crossed the finish line with me was the one who stopped to save me when I needed help. The tortoise!” Rainbow added as she lifted the tortoise up for a nose kiss while the falcon’s confident smile dropped in shock hearing and seeing this as she flew off of her back.

“But what about the–“ Twilight asked seeing the falcon’s upset expression before calmly and putting up a positive smile while shaking the tortoise’s front leg before walking away in defeat.

“Looks like the falcon is taking it in stride.” Kion commented as Ono flew over to the bird.

“Well said, Kion!” Ono said while patting a wing on the falcon’s back. “It’s okay.” He said to the falcon as he smiled while feeling better from Ono’s kind gesture.

As Rainbow welcomed her new pet with open hooves the tortoise released a slow and warm smile.

“Wouldja look at that? He even smiles slow.” Applejack commented.

“Well that is part of a tortoise’s nature. Common knowledge really.” Ono added as everyone shared a chuckle out of it.

“Spike, take a letter.” Rainbow asked of the little dragon as he gets pen and paper ready.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

I used to think that the most important traits to look for in a pet, or any best friend, were all physical competitive abilities. But now I can see how short-sighted and shallow that was.”

During this, Opal played with her toy mouse as the tortoise slowly approaches her which is met with the cat quickly scratching her claws on his shell to which he stealthily uses the distraction to sneak it inside his shell. Opal upon seeing she was tricked just simply walks away in a huff.

“Today I learned what the most important quality really is. A certain kind of spirit. A stick-to-it-ive-ness. A never give up, can-do attitude that's the mark of a real winner. And this tortoise has it.”

“Tenacity.” Ono offered.

“Gesundheit.” Rainbow returned as she finished before walking over to the tortoise. “You just can't stop that little guy. He's like a... like a... Tank!”

“But Rainbow! You didn't want a pet that couldn't fly because it would keep you grounded and hold you back, remember?” Fluttershy reminded as the tortoise slightly lowered his head again.

“Hmm...” Rainbow thought as Fuli remained certain she’ll make it work out.

“Well, considering she is best friends with me, I think she can arrange that can you, Rainbow?”

“I sure can!” Rainbow positively answered as Fuli and Ono share a fist/wing bump together with succeeding in getting Rainbow to choose the ideal pet for her.

“You both wanted this to happen didn’t you?” Kyoga asked with a whisper.

“Yep.”

“Affirmative.”

The two didn’t even deny as they watch the two bonding now more than ever now that the tortoise has finally proven himself to be the pet she is looking for because of the one thing they have in common. Undying Loyalty.

The next day following their patrol, the Pony and Lion Guard all got together at the park for their usual play time there, where all of the ponies including Rainbow Dash joins them for the Pony Pet Playdate. While Kion and Bunga are both ready to play baobab ball with Rainbow and Tank as Rainbow having healed by then equips Tank with goggles and a strapped contraption so he fly and play alongside with her

“Heh. C'mon, Tank! We're gonna be late for our very first Pony Pet Playdate!” Rainbow called back towards him as he follows after her as Ono and the falcon both get together for a race around the park loop to which is more evenly matched as the two are both neck and neck the whole race and have traded the lead several times as they cross the line multiple times.

“I can see why Rainbow was really interested in you.” Ono said to the falcon. “You sure are fast.”

The hawk returned a thankful screech before flying ahead with Ono following to make sure he doesn’t lose ground.

“Oh no you don’t!” Ono playfully returned as they flew over to behind the nearby tree where Fuli is currently petting and playing the cat with the blue bowtie in secret as she returns loving kisses and purrs while affectionately brushing herself on the cheetah’s fur to which she giggled in return as Fuli landed on her back while holding up the cat before allowing it to nuzzle her cheek to cheek.

“Oh you are just so cutsie wootsie so adorable you…” Fuli said to the smiling baby-eyed kitty in a baby talk as she suddenly sees the rest of her friends watching her as her faces turns red in embarrassment of being caught engaging in the cute act. “Oh, I wish you all hadn’t seen that.”

Rarity giggled at the sight as she places a hoof on her shoulder to let her know it’s okay considering she doesn’t with her pet cat too as everyone shares another good laugh over it before continuing to play with their pets.

Author's Note

For this episode not much to explain other Fuli and Ono getting a turn in teaching Rainbow Dash a lesson of learning about how adopting and taking care of a pet works as they set the seeds in motion so that Tank becomes Rainbow Dash's new pet.

During the pet competition the two did find a couple of pets to their liking. Ono getting a fast competitive racing friend to practice flying fast and to race against while Fuli as much as initially wanted to keep it a secret finds an adorable kitten to play with during the Guard's playtime at the park.

Next up is "Mysterious Mare Do Well." where Rainbow Dash's ego learns a humilty lesson when a mysterious masked hero takes the spotlight in this upcoming episode.

Episode 12: The Mysterious Mare Do Well

Episode 12:

The Mysterious Mare Do Well

At the Cutie Mark Crusaders clubhouse, Scootaloo has gathered a group of ponies together for a meeting with a group of ponies as they all sported gear. Very special gear as they all have with two common idols they look up to. Rainbow Dash and Fuli. The Lion and Pony Guard’s fastest members.

Ponies of all ages wearing t-shirts, hats, and wigs tuned to Rainbow’s mane colors and Fuli’s fur color with rainbow colored and gold and brown balloons and posters all hung up around the clubhouse inside as their fan club president, Scootaloo wearing a rainbow mane wig, begins their meeting as she bangs on her stand with a gavel.

“Attention, everypony! Attention! The official Rainbow Dash and Fuli Fan Club will come to order.” She began. “Let's get right down to our first order of business. I motion that Rainbow Dash be declared the most awesome pony in Ponyville and Fuli is the most awesome cheetah in the Pride Lands.”

“I second the motion…” Snails agreed with a raised hoof. “…and might I add that if you looked up the word 'awesome' in the dictionary, there would be a picture of Rainbow Dash and Fuli together.”

Everyone all cheered at the idea as Snips voiced disagreements.

“I object!” He stated with a raised hoof to which everyone gasped upon hearing. “I think the word 'awesome' is played out! Rainbow Dash and Fuli deserve better! I motion that we declare them the most stupendous pony and cheetah!”

“'Stupendous'?” Scootaloo returned rather perplexed. “Is that the best you've got? I motion that we declare them... wonderiffic!”

“Astonishing!”

“Breathtaking!”

“Astounding!”

“Bedazzling!”

The two exchanged complimenting adjectives as they hear two familiar voices from outside.

“What about super-ultra-extreme-awesomazing?”

“And the fastest of the fastest?”

Everyone inside all exchanged voices of agreement upon hearing that.

“All in favor of declaring Rainbow Dash and Fuli the most 'super-ultra-extra-uh-whatever you said' pony and cheetah and fastest of the fastest in all of Ponyville and the Pride Lands, say 'aye'!”

“Aye!” They all cheered as Rainbow and Fuli both watch from outside both giggle as they find this rather endearing and entertaining seeing the ponies inside all looking up to them.

The next day Rainbow Dash would retreat to the clouds where she would kick back and relax after another successful patrol. Considering what happened at Ghastly Gorge had her new pet tortoise Tank coming to save her she really deserved a day off.

“What a beautiful day.” Rainbow happily sighed. “There's nothing like a dip in the clouds to make a Pegasus feel super relaxed.”

At least until she heard someone call out…

“Help! Help! Help! Help!”

It was coming from a nearby well. Apparently someone fell into it by accident.

“Looks like my sky swim will have to wait!” Rainbow declared as she flew down inside the well. “I'm Rainbow Dash, and I'm here to rescue you!” She said to the distressed pony just as the other ponies along with the rest of the Guard arriving on the scene.

Rainbow emerges with the rescued filly in tow and when she lands she is showered with cheers and praise near and far for her accomplishment.

“Wow. What's with this crowd?” Rainbow commented as she saw the many ponies gathered around her to congratulate her for her heroism. “Uh, thanks, everypony. It was really no big deal.” She then humbly responded.

“To me it was! You're my hero, Rainbow Dash!” The filly thanked her as the many ponies all cheered for her once again to which she slightly blushed upon with a grin in response before flying away with her heroic job done.

“That Rainbow Dash sure is something.” Scootaloo awed as she flew away to Snips and Snails.

“Something special.” They agreed and couldn’t have said it better themselves as the Guard focuses on making sure no one falls down the well ever again.

“Hey, I’ve got an idea!” Bunga proposed as he presented a sign white sign with red paint that says “Caution Well.”. “We could just post this sign and call it a day.”

“No we need to do more than that.” Kion shook his head along with the others. “We need to fence the area.”

“Are you sure?” Bunga pressed insisting this sign is all they need.

“Yes were sure.” Fuli asserted rather annoyed. “Geez, where have you been? Working with the nuclear' power plant's safety inspector?”

“No.” He honestly replied rather sheepishly. “Just working here in the Pride Lands and all of Equestria.”

‘Okay Rainbow Dash…” Kion then began only to see she is not around. “Where did she go?”

“Back to resting her wings.” Ono pointed out after looking up into the skies with his keen sight.

“It’ll be fine.” Twilight didn’t worry too much about it. “She deserves to rest after what happened the other day.

“True.” Ono noted with a nod. “I just hope this whole hero business doesn’t go to her head.”

“I’m sure she won’t.” Beshte replied. “She just loves to celebrate whenever she achieves something special.”

“True, but I’m not quite sure about that.” Applejack interjected. “She does have quite an ego the size of a whale.”

“I guess we’ll just have to see how this plays out.” Kyoga could only say figuring it’s best to let time tell if it will.

As everyone got to work in properly securing the well elsewhere they were cries from an infant coming nearby as the baby’s mother lost control of her stroller to which got everyone else’s along with a relaxing Rainbow Dash’s attention as it made its way downhill across town and towards a cliff straight ahead.

Once again wasting no time, Rainbow Dash swoops in the catches the stroller in the nick of time just before it could go flying off of the cliff and potentially delivering a fatal drop to the infant.

Once again, everyone down below from the edge of the cliff all cheered for Rainbow Dash coming to the rescue once again to which Rainbow humbly blushed and grin once again.

“Oh no! There's something wrong with the baby!” Rainbow gasped to which spark a crowd-wide gasp thinking something is wrong until she then said… “She's not cheering for everypony's favorite hero, Rainbow Dash!”

“Thank you.” The mother gratefully expressed as she shook Rainbow’s hoof while hugging her child.

Everyone resumed cheered as Rainbow handed the mother her baby back. Once that deed was done nearby photographers took pictures of her so she can featured in the town’s newspapers.

At that moment the rest of the Guard arrived on the scene to witness the praise she was getting.

“There just aren't enough words in the dictionary to describe Rainbow Dash's awesomeness.” Scootaloo voiced of how she never ceases to amaze her.

“I can think of a few new words.” Twilight whispered to Applejack.

“And I bet 'modest' is not one of them.” Applejack whispered back.

“Okay, maybe she likes to show off a little.” Kion relented while feeling that the cow girl is laying it a little too thick there. “But she means well.”

“Yeah.” Bunga agreed. “There’s nothing wrong with well-earned fame.”

“Just as long as she doesn’t allow it to go to her head, I’m fine with it.” Fuli said as the proud peagsus flies through the skies and creates a cloud with her signature lightning bolt in the cloud’s shape.

“Hopefully.” Ono replied as his previous thoughts are growing more true by the minute as the next day she comes to a group of elderly ponies rescue when the balcony they were all standing on crumbled and gave way due to the weaken wood.

“Never fear, your friendly neighborhood Rainbow Dash is here!” Rainbow proudly declared before flying to the rescue before basking in the glory of all of the cheers from the adoring crowd of ponies.

“We'd be lost without you!” One pony cheered.

“You're our hero, Rainbow Dash!” Another pony added as they all chanted as the blue peagsus flew up into the air.

“Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!”

“I can't hear you!” Rainbow said up to them to prompt them to cheer louder as she busts some show-boating moves for the crowd.

“Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash!”

“Okay.” Fuli just said now feeling annoyed as everyone else. “Now I’m not fine with it.”

“Me neither.” Ono agreed as they spot Bunga cheering for her.

“Woohoo! Go, Rainbow Dash!”

“Are you seriously encouraging her?” Kyoga asked her with a raised eyebrow.

“Why not?”

“Because that’s not what a true hero should be acting like.”

“Call me silly, but I think this whole hero thing might be going to Rainbow Dash's head.” Twilight said seeing this is starting to be too much to put up with.

“You may be right...silly.” Pinkie replied as Twilight glances at her with a “Seriously?” glance.

And it doesn’t stop there as it continues as ponies hold a party at Sugarcube Corner by her loving fan club along with photographers constantly taking pictures of her while the rest of the Guard watches while trying not to be annoyed by it but it was really hard especially when she is now constantly rubbing it in everyone else’s faces.

“And then I zoomed into the well. I knew it would be dark and dangerous, but I didn't let that stop me. Danger's my middle name. Rainbow 'Danger' Dash. Thinking back on it, I acted pretty awesomely heroic that day.” Rainbow proudly recalled her rescue of the filly two days ago while wearing her signature pair of sunglasses while Bunga takes notes.

“That day.” Bunga repeated as he wrote it down.

“Awesomely heroic that day and awesomely arrogant ever since.” Applejack whispered to Twilight, Pinkie, Ono, and Kion who all nod in agreement as Rainbow pulls the farm pony in close to her.

“Hey, Applejack. How'd you like to be immortalized as my friend?” She asked her.

“Immorta-what?” She asked as she suddenly finds herself forced into photo shoots with her as the photographers snap a bunch of pictures of them together while Bunga writes it down on his notepad.

“Are you taking notes?” Twilight asked.

“Yup!” He answered. “I've been hoof-picked by Rainbow Dash herself, to write her autobiography!”

“Umm, autobiographies are supposed to be written by the pony they are about.” The lavender mare pointed out as Applejack walked off in disgust complete with sticking her tongue out for emphasis.

“Maybe for your normal, run-of-the-mill ponies. But I'm far too busy saving lives to stop and write.” Rainbow replied as Twilight and Applejack just glance at each other while Kion and Ono just shake their heads in disapproval. “That's why I hired Bunga as my ghost writer.”

“Bunga's a ghost!” Pinkie yelped in fright.

“Run for it!” Bunga shouted as he ran out of the bakery along with Pinkie Pie.

“Seriously?” Fuli asked as if the two are that dumb enough to fall for that. “So much for the Lion Guard’s Bravest to help us out there.” She sarcastically muttered under her breath to Kyoga.

“At least he’s not some obnoxious pup foolishly trying to pick a fight he can’t win.” She remarked.

“True.” Fuli acknowledged.” Although I won’t quite say he’s annoying to the point of deserving never being allowed to be a hero again.”

“Right, but he’s up there.” Kyoga replied back as Rainbow continued upping her arrogant attitude as she continues boasting.

“...Anyway. Bunga here writes down everything I say. Don't you, Bunga?”

“Don't... you... Bunga. Got it!” Spike literal-mindedly repeated as he wrote it down.

“This way, I can stay focused on performing those acts of bravery that nopony else has the guts to perform.” She continued explaining as her fans from her fan club get in for pictures of their fast idol. “Yep, it takes guts. But it also takes brains. And sometimes a big lunch and a nap. Being a hero is surely not for everypony, but I'm up to the challenge.”

"And that's great, Rainbow Dash..." Beshte began before getting what he and the others want to say to her. "...but think maybe you could tone it down a little?"

"What do you mean?"

"Tone down bragging of how awesome you are." Twilight answered.

"Aren't I awesome or what?" Rainbow brushed it off as Fuli got face to face with her.

"Yes, and we all know it but you're letting this fame and glory go to your head." She told her while looking straight at her in the eye to get her to look and listen to her.

"What are you saying it's wrong to accept it?" She returned still confused by that statement as she backed away from the cheetah as Kion steps forward.

"What she means to say is, No, but there is a fine line between helping ponies and animals and bragging about it all the time." Kion explained. "And your kinda leaning more on rubbing it everyone's faces."

"Aw come on." Rainbow again shrugged it off complete with a gesturing hoof. "Don't tell me you all are jealous of me?"

"No!" Applejack firmly responded while keeping her temper in check. "We just feel that you shouldn't be constantly gloating about your victories all the time."

"I am not!" She insisted. "I'm the pony everyone looks up too and if they want me to step up as the town hero then so be!" She declared.

"But..." Kyoga tried to speak as Rainbow quickly went ahead to continue tending to the press. "Grr..." She growled as she backed off before doing or saying something she'll regret.

As she further continues her gloating everyone on the Guard silently voice in their minds that they have now had enough with her constant showboating and decided they need to act upon it to teach her a lesson.

The next day, Rainbow Dash was signing autographs for her eager fans when she heard more cries of help. This time coming from a mare descending downwards at a accelerating fast speed from her popped air balloon ride.

“Help! Help!” She screamed as she descended fast towards the ground at an alarming rate.

“Uh, don't you think you should go and help?” Snips rightfully urged her to take action now.

“Yeah, yeah. I've got a good ten seconds to spare. Just a couple more.” Rainbow dismissed it as she quickly signed the filly’s autograph before flying on up there as she coolly flies her way up towards the balloon with no worries on her mind.

“The tension is unbearable.”

“Will Rainbow Dash make it on time?“

Bunga narrated as the two both come closer and closer towards each other in opposite directions towards each other.

But just before Rainbow could rescue her, a masked individual wearing a dark purple suit and hat with a dark blue mask with a matching eye color and cape on the costume, along with the letter M on the badge holding the cape together, showed up out of nowhere as the figure leaped from building to building before leaping over and pulling the mare out of the descending balloon before it crashed leaving Rainbow to fly face first into the popped balloon as it crashed into the ground.

Everyone cheered for the masked figure as Rainbow is left surprised that someone else beat her to the punch.

“Holy turnips, that pony came outta nowhere!” One pony stated.

“I've never seen such bravery in all my life!” Another pony next to her complimented.

“That's right! Ponyville has a new hero.” The mayor stated as the masked mare runs off the nearby mountain top on the horizon and leaves the scene without a word. “A mysterious mare that has done well by our fair city today. I dub this new masked hero 'The Mysterious Mare Do Well'!”

As everyone cheers for the mysterious hero’s accomplishment, Rainbow is left stewing with competitive blood and determination to one up this new hero back for literally stealing her thunder.

“Mare Do Well, huh? Well that mare would do well to stay outta my way! Ponyville's only got room for one hero, and that hero is me!” Rainbow vowed as she moved to leave the scene so she can be ready to come to someone’s rescue when the next opportunity arises.

The next day, said opportunity came when a speeding tourist cart ended up breaking apart from its ride and winds up going downhill towards the same cliff the baby’s stroller went down the other day. Rainbow was quick to come to the rescue as she flew over to the front and used all of her strength in trying to slow it down but it wasn’t enough to stop it.

Luckily for everyone Mare-Do-Well arrived on the scene as she jumped in front of the carriage and placed with her back legs. The mare’s hooves had to dig into the ground but she was able to stop it just before the carriage went over the edge.

The passengers all cheered for her as one of them kissed the nearby grass in relief after getting out of the carriage but before any one of them can congratulate her she quickly left the scene retreating towards the nearby mountains

“I can't believe it. Mare Do Well is stronger than me?” Rainbow expressed rather stunned this happened again. “Well, a hero is more than just muscle, and she's gonna learn that the hard way.” She then vowed to try harder next time.

But she ended up always beaten to the punch throughout the following days. The following day a crane at a construction site which was holding a large steel bar which suddenly malfunctioned with the rope supporting it breaking off and winded up crashing into the work in progress infrastructure. Mare-Do Well was quick to save everypony having faster reflexes than Rainbow Dash.

Even though Rainbow was able to at least save one construction worker and got some thanks for his previous efforts fair and well, all eyes were more on the masked hero due to her more humble nature to which the ponies that all previously cheered for her were starting to get a little tired off. Now that’s not to say they didn’t think any less of her nor a hero gone bad, they just find Mare-Do-Well the better hero as she just comes in and out without a word never expecting praise and attention near and far for her heroics even when getting great press. Rainbow was really enjoying the previous attention to the point she was starting to get further incensed with being one-upped by her as no matter what she was always there to save the day in an instant.

Sometime afterwards following the dam incident to which Mare-Do-Well was able to quickly fly over with her wings so she can use her magic to fix the leak while saving Rainbow Dash, the Guard all got together at Sugarcube Corner where Rainbow’s friends all were talking about her.

“Gotta hand it to the girl, that Mare Do Well sure can pull off some pretty heroic feats.” Applejack said as she placed a plate of cupcakes onto her back.

“I must say, I was impressed by that spell she used to fix the dam. “ Twilight added.

“Seems like something like that would take quite a bit of study.” Ono added voiced with how impressed he is by her. “Sure is quite up there with you in terms of magic skills.”

Rainbow wasn’t pleased hearing that the newfound praise is extending to her friends as well.

“She really cares about everypony's safety.” Fluttershy said.

“She sure does.” Beshte agreed.

“Have you seen her costume? It is to die for!” Rarity added as she levitated her tea cup. “If you ask me she's a hero of fashion.”

“And she's modest and humble.” Applejack added. “She lets her actions speak for themselves. Gotta admire that.”

Rainbow growled in response growing increasingly agitated by her friend’s showering compliments.

“I don't have to admire that! I don't think she's all that great!” Rainbow irritably voiced her thoughts about her.

“She's... great.” Bunga jotted in down to which Rainbow quickly corrected him.

“I didn't say that.”

“Are you okay, Rainbow?” Kion asked.

“Cause you don’t look very happy?” Beshte added.

“Oh, me. I’m fine! Really!” Rainbow returned on the contrary. “Mare-Do-Well is the talk of the town and is always there when somepony is in need of help just before I could even step up to help myself!”

“Rainbow, you’re not jealous of her are you?” Fuli asked.

“Are you kidding?!” Rainbow asked back rather offended. “Why would I be?”

“Because this masked pony is garnering a lot more attention that you.” She pointed out. “Even when she is nothing but humble about it.”

“My problem is that she is always there to one-up me every time I face a situation I could handle on my own. I find it rather unnecessary that she feels the need to step in like that!” She fired back.

“Okay, so maybe she has been on top of things for a while.” Kion agreed with what she is saying. “But what matters is the job is done and the ponies there are saved. Shouldn’t that what’s all that matters?”

“Yes, but I’ve been the town’s hero always there for everyone when needed before she showed up.” Rainbow responded still feeling humiliated by this masked hero. “She keeps outshining me even when she expects nothing in return. But that’s about to change because from this moment on I won’t stop until I bring that mare down.” She vowed as she pounded her hooves together as she flew out of the bakery…

…But came back quickly to retrieve a pair of Rainbow Dash pants a fan made for her before storming out for good this time as the other’s express concerned looks of how this will end up for her with this new pursuit with envy and jealousy really starting to consume her at this point.

Throughout the following days, Rainbow has been flying all around Ponyville desperately looking for opportunities to pounce on getting to play the hero once more but alas nobody and nopony was in need of dire help.

“Buses and baby carriages are always careening down this hill. Where is an out-of-control vehicle when you need one?!” Rainbow said to herself rather annoyed that the time she wanted a peaceful day is now of all days.

Granny Smith didn’t need help walking across the street, a couple of ponies only had trouble opening a pickle jar, and sure the nearby lawn needing a mowing but they weren’t anything worth demanding praise over it.

“Aw, who am I kidding?” Rainbow lamented in defeat. “Mare-Do-Well is the one pony everyone can count on since she is always there so why bother?”

She then flew over to her cloud home where it would turn gray to match her mood as she sulks sadly feeling and getting the message her assistance is needed anymore to which the Guard all notices from above as they all walk off ahead while sharing a group whisper together to resolve this.

Sometime later, Scootaloo comes by to pay her a visit.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo called out to her.

“Yes.” Rainbow replied still feeling too blue to float down and face her.

“You okay?” She asked. “Because you’re sure not feeling and looking like it.”

“It’s because I’m not.” She replied still downcast with her back turned. “But it’s okay, it’s been made perfectly clear that Mare-Do-Well is the pony everyone looks up to now.”

“Aw come on, Rainbow Dash.” She tried to encourage her otherwise. “Everyone still looks up to you, even me.” She added. “Sure you got quite an ego, but your heart is always in the right place.

“Really?” Rainbow felt touched hearing that.

“Of course! And maybe Mare-Do-Well is just setting an example of what a true hero like you can be capable of.”

“Aw, thanks!” Rainbow gushed before then saying. “Wait a minute?” She asked with a chuckle making sure she interpreted that right. “Hang on was that a challenge?”

“No. But I’m sure the Rainbow Dash I look up to is somepony who cares of what’s really important and doesn’t let one pony stop her from being there for everyone when it really counts.” She replied with a wink. “Plus Mare-Do-Well is having a thank you parade held in her honor.”

“Really?” She expressed intrigue hearing that.

“Yep, so if you want to drop by and have a word with her your more than welcome too.” She responded as she walked over to the middle of park where the ceremony is being held.

“Why thank you, squirt.” She returned with a sly smile seeing this is her opportunity to unmask the mysterious hero as she flies over to the large gathering of ponies as Mayor Mare takes the podium to deliver the opening speech on a stage with Mare Do Well images, posters, and banners hung around the area.

“Welcome to Ponyville's first, but surely not last, thank you parade, in honor of our city's greatest hero, the mysterious Mare Do Well!” The mayor introduced everyone as the masked individual appeared by tearing through the banner to which everyone all cheers for the silent hero onstage as Rainbow uses this to her advantage as she sneaks up on her much like Kion and Fuli when out hunting preparing to pounce on her prey until a whistle is blown from the distance to which the masked mare quickly attended towards that direction to which Rainbow had to give her chase when her initial ambush attempt was thwarted.

She pursued her into the empty town streets where the masked mare is always able to evade her no matter where she turns to try to intercept her. Even for a mare capable of great strength and magic she is still as agile and fast on her hooves to give Rainbow Dash a run for her bits as she was able to evade the super-fast peagsus at every turn from outrunning her at every nearby sharp corner and quickly teleporting away from the area before Rainbow could catch her.

It wasn’t until Rainbow managed a sneak attack on her from one of the rooftops was she finally able to tackle her to the ground.

“I got you now!” She declared. “Mystery solved!” She stated as she removed her mask but then gasped upon seeing a familiar face in front of her that was behind the mask the whole time. “Pinkie?” She said in surprise.

“Yup.” She replied with a giggle as the rest of the Guard appears from the nearby corners and alleys. “It was me. Along with all of us.”

"There were four of you?" Rainbow asked while still blown out of her mind by the revelation. “But how?”

“We all played Mare-Do Well at different points." Twilight answered. "Along with some help courtesy of Kyoga’s magic to give us a boost in to being to perform those abilities.” She answered as the lioness then explained it to her.

“I stopped the carriage bus with these babies, Bucky McGillicuddy and Kicks McGee.” Applejack pointed to her back hoofs.

“With Kyoga's magic giving her my Twende Kiboko to help her!” Beshte added.

“I saved the construction workers with my Pinkie Sense.” Pinkie demonstrated by twitching her tail.

“With Kyoga's magic giving her The Huwezi like speed.” Fuli added for emphasis as she quickly ran a loop around the alley and just nearly got hit by a flower pot in the process. "Whoa!"

“Sorry!” The pony living in the home where the pot fell apologized.

“It's alright.” Fuli returned accepting it was an accident. “As long as no one got hurt I’m okay with it.”

“I did the flyby...” Fluttershy added as she recalled.

“...And I made the costumes. Fabulous if I do say so myself!” Rarity added taking pleasure in her work.

“But how were you able to stay one step ahead of me at every turn?” Rainbow asked. “There was no way one pony could be there in a flash in an instant.”

“Ono’s Keen Sight of course.” Twilight answered gesturing to the egret. “Along with a quick teleportation with my own magic which I used to fix the dam.” She demonstrated as the violet-red aura on her horn glowed.

“So by looking into Ponyville from afar…” Ono began as he looked up in the sky. “… I was able to tell the rest of the Guard of where danger was lurking so she can teleport herself or one of these four on over there.”

“But I don't understand. Why?” Rainbow asked still wondering why they would go through with all of this. “Don't you want me to be a hero?”

“Of course we want you to be a hero.” Twilight replied.

“But a real hero doesn't brag.” Applejack added.

“Uh, I guess I did start to brag a little.” Rainbow admitted rather embarrassed as she rubbed a hoof on the back of her head.

“A little?!” Fuli questioned with a serious quirked brow. “Do you not remember all of the showboating you were doing just days ago?”

“Okay, a lot.” She admitted as Kion approached her.

“Celebrating your accomplishments is natural. But when it comes to rubbin’ them in everyone's faces it’s an entirely different story.” Kion explained.

“Especially when it starts to really get on other ponies nerves.” Kyoga added.

“Yeah, the only thing that should be rubbed in anypony's face is chocolate cake.“ Pinkie added as she slurped her tongue and licked her lips at the thought.

“Oh yeah! I’m going to go get some!” Bunga added as he ran off back to Sugarcube Corner to do so while the others shake their heads at their antics.

“Anyways…” Twilight then got the conversation back on track here. “…What we're trying to say is, it's great to be really good at something, but it's important to act with grace and humility.”

“Something that a true hero needs to learn to take in.” Kyoga added as Rainbow began to understand why they did it.

“Yeah, that makes does make sense when you put it that way.” She admitted as she realized she hadn’t been acting as such lately. “Yeah. You're right. I should've also acted with grace and humility when others outshine me. Like Mare Do Well.”

“So you’re okay with all of this?” Fluttershy asked.

“Of course.” She replied she has no problem with it now. “You went through all of that trouble to help me curb my overly-inflated ego before I could turn into somebody I wasn’t. I mean for all we know I couldn’t turned out worse than Trixie if I didn’t have awesomely great friends like you.”

“Well isn’t that touching.” Kyoga replied finding the friendly affection rather endearing more the amused side of the fence while playfully nudging her on the shoulder with her elbow.

“Sounds like you've got a letter to write to Princess Celestia.” Twilight then said as Bunga returned with cake and a written up letter.

“Already got it covered. As your ghost writer, I've already penned a letter to the Princess.” Bunga said as he presented what he already written up.

“That's nice of you, Spike, but I really wanna write this letter myself.” Rainbow appreciated but politely insisted.

“Aww, come on, I wrote the whole thing already!” He eagerly pleaded.

“Okay, let's hear it.” She relented.

“Dear Princess Cel-“ The honey badger began as she suddenly interrupted him.

“Look out! It's a real ghost!” She called out pointing to the opposite direction.

“Huh?” Bunga and Pinkie questioned in unison before screaming at the sight of an actual white ghost with black eyes glooming over the group.

“Run for it!” Bunga exclaimed as he and Pinkie all ran for the hills with the former dropping the chocolate cake by flinging it upwards to which Beshte quickly caught with his back as Kyoga made her magic that made the ghost appear disappear.

While he and everyone else all laughed together finding it very funny as Twilight levitates a paper and quill pen for her so she can write the letter herself to which she accepts while winking towards the audience that she is now a changed mare for the better.

Author's Note

For this episode as we tackle one of the many episodes that really could use a fix.

First minor thing was I've decided aside from the Fastest members of the Guard getting their personal little fan club.

Second and most importantly was rewriting the episode to correct the glaring problems that many viewers had with that episode to the point both sides have no ill feelings towards each other to the best of my ability with extra effort on the Mane 5 and the Lion Guard trying to talk sense into her before enacting their masked hero plan along with trying to make her feel better when it lead to her feeling hurt and embittered.

Third, was Scootaloo actually encouraging Rainbow Dash not to give up and everyone looks up to her even if she does act brash and arrogant at times which gives her the motivation to uncover Mare-Do-Well's identity in contrast to how the canon version approached it.

Personally, it was one of the episodes where it wasn't that bad but really could have been written out a little better if the main cast handled it a bit better than they did in cannon.

Next up is "Janja's New Crew." where Janja hires smarter brains for their latest attempt of getting the successful hunt they want albeit maybe to too smart for Janja considering what happens in this upcoming episode.

Anyways, until then, stay tuned...

Episode 13: Janja's New Crew

Episode 13:

Janja's New Crew

It was another day in the Pridelands after another rainstorm hit from the previous night. As a result, some of the trails were blocked by mudslides, and the Pony and Lion Guard were hard at work clearing each and every one of them.

"Nothing better than the feel of squishy mud under your feet." Beshte grinned as he jumped in a medium sized mud puddle.

"Except maybe the feel of no mud under your feet." Fuli rebuked, shaking mud off her paws.

"After last night's big storm, I'm glad the mud is our only problem." Kion noted, bringing up the rear of the group.

“Yeah, I agree sugarcube.” Applejack replied before they heard Rarity scream,

“I just got my hooves manicured! Now they’ll be ruined!” Rarity cries dramatically, making the Guard chuckle and roll their eyes at their fashionista friend.

Meanwhile, from behind a nearby rock pile, Janja and his hyena clan watched as the Pony and Lion Guard went on their way. "Hahaha that white unicorn is so whiny." Cheezi chuckled, his tongue falling over the side of his mouth.

"Yeah haha..." Chungu followed.

"Stuff it, fur brains." Janja huffed. "Everything's going exactly as planned." the hyena leader chuckled under his breath.

"You mean you planned for them all to get muddy?" Cheezi questioned.

"No!" Janja snapped, "I planned to go after those wildebeests." he corrected, motioning to the nearby herd. "With all this mud, they'll never outrun us."

"Wait. You planned on the mud?" Chungu blinked in confusion, before letting out a drawled-out gasp. "Did you make it rain?"

"No, fur-brain!" the pack leader growled. "Look. We just gotta wait for the Pony and Lion Guard to clear out... " the hyena pack watched as the six animals walked out of sight, "...and now it's lunchtime. C'mon, fellas!" Janja cackled, taking a step forward, only for his paw to slip on a patch of mud. He let out a yelp as he slid down the hillside.

"Huh?" Rainbow stopped and raised her ear.

"What is it, Rainbow Dash?" Bunga asked.

"I thought I heard something." Rainbow replied.

“I’ll take a look.” Ono suggested and the egret flew higher to get a better view. He saw a line of black, spotted furred animals sliding down a hillside a few feet back. "I see what you heard, Rainbow. It's Janja and his clan."

"Let's go Pony and Lion Guard." Kion ordered, him and the Guard doubling back to cut off the hyenas.

Janja ceased his sliding when he ran right into Beshte. The rest of his clan stopped shortly after, all of them lined up single-file. "Well, look who it is, the Lion Guard." Janja chuckled, the six animals glaring back at him. "What are you guys doin' in the Outlands?"

"Nice try, Janja." Fuli smirked.

"We all know this is the Pride Lands." Twilight corrected. "And you don't belong here."

"Yeah, yeah..." Janja rolled his eyes and got back on his feet. "C'mon, fellas, let's go. It's too muddy around here, anyway." He turned his nose up as he walked away, followed by another pair of hyenas.

"But, Janja, I thought you liked the mud." Cheezi said.

"Yeah!" Chungu agreed. "'Cause it slows down the wilde... The wilde..."

"Wildebeests?" Ono finished with a quirked brow, from his perch on Beshte's shoulder

"Yeah! Them!" the muscular hyena nodded.

"We was gonna have 'em for lunch!" Cheezi laughed, only again to be hit on the head by Janja. "Fur-brains! Shh." he snapped.

"The mud might slow down the wildebeests." Kion stated, stepping forward in front of his team. "But I don't think it's gonna slow you down." he opened his muzzle and unleashed his Roar, sending the five hyenas flying back into the Outlands.

Bunga wiped his hands together, "Good riddance." he crossed his arms over his chest.

"Come on guys, let's get back to work." Kion voted, leading his Guard back the way they came, searching for more trails needing to be cleared.

Fuli let out a frustrated groan as she walked through another mud puddle, "Remind me again, why are we slogging through all this mud?" she asked, sticking her tongue out in disgust.

"We gotta make sure all the trails in the Pride Lands are safe after the big rainstorm." Kion reminded, standing beside the cheetah. The ground beneath them started to rumble, and quickly after, a portion of a nearby hillside came sliding down. "Mudslide!" Kion warned. "Everybody! Run!"

The wave of mud swept past some boulders and trees. Bunga jumped onto Twilight’s back as she leaped over a fallen tree, landing safely away from the mudslide. "Okay, so this trail is no longer safe." the Guard's wisest noted, the bravest still on her back.

"But this is the main path from Big Springs to Mekundu Cliffs." Beshte informed. "Everyone uses it."

"So we'll need to clear it and make it safe again." Kion ordered. "Rainbow, Fluttershy, you take Ono and Bunga, keep everyone off this trail till we're done."

“Right.”

“Okay...!”

“Affirmative.”

Rainbow, Fluttershy and Ono replied.

Kion faced the strongest and bravest members, "Applejack, Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie, Fuli, Beshte, you're with me." he continued. "We have to get all these trees and boulders off this trail."

"Sure thing!" Beshte agreed with a grin.

“Yee-Haw!” Applejack cheered, ready to get down and dirty.

"Well, if I have to get muddy, might as well do it for a good cause." Fuli chuckled, jumping from the boulder she was on to the ground, landing right in the mud.

"That's the spirit, Fuli." the hippo smiled.

Meanwhile, Rainbow, Fluttershy and Ono were at the entrance to the path when they spotted the giraffe leader making her way towards them, "Excuse me." Ono called, flying up to Twiga's eye-level. The female giraffe took a step back, "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you." the egret apologized. "You might not want to go this way."

"But I have to get to Big Springs." Twiga defended, trying to step around the bird.

"Sorry Twiga, but you've got to go around." Fluttershy informed, fluttering up to the giraffe. "There's a mudslide up ahead."

Twiga craned her head a bit higher, seeing there was in fact a mudslide blocking the trail. "I see what you mean. Thanks for the heads-up." She gave the three Guard members a smile.

“Your welcome.” Fluttershy smiled.

The sound of rapid hoofsteps broke through the air, "Whoa!" Rainbow blocked the way just as Thurston came to a stop in front of her. "Slow down there."

"Hello. I'm trying to get through." the zebra leader huffed. "Step aside."

"Sorry Thurston, but you can't go this way." Fluttershy spoke up, standing next to her best friend. "There's a mudslide up ahead and..."

"You don't understand." Thurston scoffed. "You're in my way!" He gave a whinny and charged right past the two animals, heading right for the mud.

"Well, we tried." Ono sighed, hovering just above the two pegasus.

"Maybe he'll get through okay." Fluttershy shrugged.

They heard a distinct splash, followed by Thurston calling out, "Excuse me! A little help here?" The zebra closed his eyes and turned his snout up.

“Come on Fluttershy.” Rainbow called and the pair flew down to help the trapped zebra, who was slowly sinking into the deep mud.

“Guh!”

"Twende Kiboko!"

Applejack and Beshte grunted as they moved the final tree out of the blocked trail. "That was the last one." Beshte sighed.

"Great job, Beshte and Applejack." Kion praised. "Looks like the trail's safe to use again."

"At least till the next big rain." Fuli pointed out.

"Does that mean we can take a break?" Ono asked as he, Rainbow and Fluttershy regrouped with the rest of the Guard, al of them nearly completely covered in mud.

"What happened to you three?" Beshte asked with a raised brow.

"Would you believe a zebra?" Rainbow replied with her own brow raised.

"I'd believe it." Fuli chuckled as she jumped onto a rock and started cleaning her paws.

"Heads up!" Ono alerted, flying over the rest of the Guard.

"Was that it?" Bunga mumbled.

"No, I mean, heads up!" the keenest of sight corrected. "I just spotted two animals in trouble."

"Then let's go." Kion ordered, looking to his friends. "Till the Pride Lands end...Lion Guard defend!"

Ono led the Guard to the next mudslide, "Hurry!" he called down to the rest. "They're headed for the canyon's edge!"

"Beshte, block their path." Kion looked to the hippo she was running next to. "You're the only one strong enough."

"I'm on it!" Beshte jumped into the mud and held his ground as the two animals slammed into him.

Once the mud slowed down, the Guard was clear to drag the animals out. "Bunga, you and Fuli help the smaller one." Kion ordered, “Applejack, help me with the big one."

Bunga ran right into the mud with Fuli right behind him, the two lion cubs following suit. Bunga grabbed the smaller animal's tail and pulled him out with the help of Fuli pushing, while Kion took the larger animal's tail in his teeth and pulled while Applejack pushed.

Bunga wiped his forehead, "You're pretty heavy for a..." he looked at the mud covered animal, unsure of what it was.

"Whatever you are." the Guard's fastest finished, quirking her brow.

Both Kion and Applejack grunted as they pulled the larger animal to safety, spitting out the mud that had fallen into their mouths.

"That was a close call." Applejack sighed, stepping back.

"Are you two all right?" Kion asked, closing his eyes as the pair shook off the mud covering them, revealing it to be Cheezi and Chungu. "What?" the prince blinked. "You two?"

"Is it?" Cheezi questioned, glancing to his larger companion.

Chungu looked down at himself, "I guess so." he shrugged.

"If you're here, then Janja's here, too." Kion stated, looking from the two hyenas to the Guard's keenest of sight. "Ono." The egret gave a nod and took off, searching for the hyena leader.

"Janja's here?" Cheezi gasped, looking around. "Do you see him?"

"Maybe he's come back!" Chungu exclaimed with a grin.

"Yeah!" Cheezi agreed with a laugh. "Maybe he's gonna let us back into the Outlands!"

"Wait." Fuli blinked. "What?"

Chungu's ears fell to the sides of his head, "Janja kicked us outta the Outlands." he informed.

"We ain't on his crew no more." Cheezi whined.

"You really expect us to believe that?" Fuli asked stoically.

"He said we always messed things up." the larger, muscular hyena added.

"Okay, that I believe." Fuli spoke up, sharing a glance with Kyoga.

"Now he's got two new guys." Chungu continued with a roll of his eyes.

Cheezi nodded, "Yeah. Nne and Tano." he narrowed his eyes.

“Those two smarter hyenas?” Twilight quipped.

"And they're mean..." the larger hyena quickly added. "...and ugly." he muttered under his breath.

Ono flew back to the Guard and landed between Kion’s paws, "No sign of Janja." he informed, earning a groan from the two hyenas.

"So..." Bunga spoke up, "...what are we gonna do with these two?" he looked from Kion.

"Well, they can't stay here." the prince answered. "You two have to go back to the Outlands."

"But we can't go back!" the smaller hyena rebuked.

"If we do, Janja's new crew will just kick us out." the larger hyena followed. "Again." they both groaned.

"You know, Kion." Beshte said. "I don't see these two guys causing much trouble."

"Yeah." Fuli agreed. "They're not smart enough."

The two hyenas laughed and voiced their agreement with the young lioness. "See what I mean?"

"But what if they chase after the herds like Janja always does?" Kion pointed out.

"Why would we do that?" Cheezi asked before he and Chungu ran to a nearby rib cage. "When there's leftovers lying all over the place?" and the two hyenas started chewing on the carcass.

"Maybe we should let them stay." Ono said, the rest of Guard to look at him. "After all, hyenas are scavengers. By cleaning up after everyone, they'd actually be helping the Circle of Life in the Pride Lands."

“Yeah, that’s what Jasiri said most hyenas do.” Rainbow piped in.

"Maybe you're both right." Kion pondered, "And I guess letting them stay would be the nice thing to do."

"Feels weird, though." Bunga noted.

Kion sighed, "Okay, as long as you two don't cause any trouble, you can stay in the Pride Lands." he told the two hyenas. "Just don't make us regret it." The lion prince glanced back at his Lion Guard, "Let's get back to our patrol." The Guard left the two hyenas to their scavenging. "Ono, check in on them every once in a while." Kion told the egret once they were away from the hyenas. "I still think this might be one of Janja's plans."

"Affirmative." Ono agreed.

As Ono flew a little ways ahead of his friends, he caught sight of a stampeding herd. "Hapana!" he gasped.

"Problem, Ono?" Kion asked, skidding to a halt, looking up.

"Is it those two hyenas?" Fuli wondered, standing to the right of Kion.

"No." Ono answered. "A herd of antelope is stampeding in the Rocky Plains!"

"Lead the way, Ono!" Kion ordered, "Till the Equestai and the Pride Lands end..."

"...Pony and Lion Guard defend!" the rest of the Guard finished as they raced towards the Rocky Plains.

"Did you see what made them run?" Kion asked, catching his breath. Ono shook his head, "No, I didn't." he informed me, landing on a boulder next to Fuli.

Kion took a few more steps and sniffed the air, "Doesn't matter. I think I know." he informed. "Come on!" the fiercest looked back to the others. "We gotta catch that herd and calm 'em down."

The Guard ran right past a large pile of boulders, where Janja and his new hyenas, Nne and Tano, were hiding.

"Oh, great!" Janja groaned. "The Lion Guard spoiled the plan. Again."

"No." Nne rebuked. "The plan's working perfectly."

"It is?" Janja raised his brow, "What kinda plan lets the Lion Guard win?"

"Janja, they're not winning." Tano corrected. "They're doing exactly what we want them to do."

"Did you even listen when we explained the plan?" Nne asked with a quirked brow at their boss's cluelessness.

"Sure I did." the pack leader held his head high. "It's all about rocks and leaves and...stuff."

"We scared off the antelopes so the Lion Guard will chase after them." Tano explained.

"While they're busy, we're gonna go after something else." added Nne.

"In the opposite direction." Tano finished.

“Oooh… right…” Janja replied.

“Now let’s go furbrain..” Tano smirked.

“W-What did you call me?” Janja gaped at what he just said to him.

“Oh sorry…. Boss..” Nne laughed.

“Y-Yeah. I’m the Boss.” Janja replied before the three hyenas ran off unaware of a certain lioness watching from a large boulder.

“This won’t end well… for Janja..” Kyoga sighed before she trailed behind them.

The Guard caught up with the stampeding herd. Ono flew above them, "Slow it down. No need to run." he said calmly. "The Lion Guard's here to help."

Bunga jumped onto the back of the antelope's leader, pulling on his horns to get him to stop, "Yeah, but help them with what?" he asked, scratching the back of his head.

"Good question, Little B." Beshte agreed. "I never did see anyone chasing them."

"Me neither." added Ono. "Kion, you said earlier you've got an idea what started the stampede?"

"Yeah." Kion answered. "It's all our fault."

Fuli blinked, "What?"

"How could it be our fault?" Ono asked.

"I'd never start a stampede." Beshte shook his head, sharing a glance with Bunga.

"We didn't start the stampede." Kion clarified. "But we let Cheezi and Chungu stay in the Pride Lands."

"You think they had something to do with it?" Twilight questioned.

"Either them or Janja." Kion answered. "I caught the scent of hyenas earlier." The golden cub glanced from the lioness to the egret on her shoulder, "Ono, find Cheezi and Chungu and lead us to 'em." Ono saluted and took off.

The two hyenas in question were laying back to back, snoring away. They didn't even notice a herd of oryxes stampede right past them, along with Nne and Tano nippin their heels. They only woke up when Janja crashed into them.

"Janja!" Cheezi exclaimed. "Is it really you?"

"Did you come looking for us?" Chungu asked. "Do you want us back?"

"You kidding?" Janja laughed. "I got two new hyenas that do everything I say. They really respect me." he held his head high with pride.

"Janja!" Tano called back to him. "You coming?"

Nne rolled his eyes, "Just let him stay behind." The pair ran off after the oryx herd.

Janja let out a nervous laugh, his ears falling flat. "See what I mean?" he chuckled, turning back on his heels. "Fellas! Wait up!" he yelled after his new hyena crew.

Cheezi blinked, "Did that really just happen?" he asked, glancing to his friend.

"Maybe it was just a dream." Chungu guessed, meeting Cheezi's glance.

"Yeah, yeah." the smaller hyena nodded. "I'm gonna dream about Janja some more."

"Me, too." the muscular one agreed. They went back to their position, back-to-back and snoring away.

Nne and Tano chased after the large antelope with Janja by their side. “Hahah, we go ‘em now.” Janja laughed.

“We do but you don’t.” Nne smirked before he pushed Janja off of the cliff and onto a muddy ledge. “What the-? Hey! What’d you do that for! I’m your leader!”

“Not anymore, Janja!” Tano laughed. “See ya later.”

Nne and Tano laughed before they left, leaving Janja on the ledge.

The Lion Guard soon came upon the two snoring hyenas. "You still think they started the antelope stampede?" Besthe asked, now doubtful.

"Let's ask 'em." Kion met her eyes before looking back to the hyenas. "Hey!" Cheezi and Chungu awoke with a gasp. "Okay, you two, why'd you start that stampede?" Kion interrogated.

"Stampede?" the smaller hyena repeated.

"It wasn't us!" Chungu defended. "We was busy dreamin' about Janja."

Cheezi nodded in agreement. "Maybe it was Dream Janja that did it."

"Dream Janja?" Ono repeated.

In the distance, they heard the voice of the real Janja, calling out for his two new subordinates. The Lion Guard raced in the direction they heard the voice, followed by the two hyenas.

"Those double-crossing no-goods." Janja growled. Ono swooped down over Janja, turning his attention to the Lion Guard staring down at him from the cliff's edge. "Oh, great. Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse."

"Why'd you scare off the antelopes, Janja?" Kion asked, narrowing his eyes at the hyena leader. "What's your plan?"

“Quit jumping to conclusions, Kion.” Kyoga said as she arrived on the scene.

“Kyoga?” Kion quipped.

“Nne and Tano pushed him off of the ciff.” Kyoga replied.

“Yeah! She’s right! It was their idea! The new guys!" he informed. "Something about getting you to chase the antelopes while we chase the oryxes!" Janja added.

“Looks like it wasn’t such a good idea to replace Cheezi and Chungu, huh?” Kyoga quipped.

“Pfft. What would you know about me?” Janja snarled.

“Cheezi and Chungu may be bumbling idiots to you, but at least they’re loyal to you and don’t push you off of a cliff when you don’t catch on right away to their plans.” Kyoga advised. “That’s what true clan members act like, Janja.”

"Ono, find those two hyenas and the oryx heard.” Kion ordered and the egret immediately took off and searched for the oryx herd. "I see them!" the keenest of sight alerted. "They're chasing the oryxes into a dead-end canyon!"

"Pony and Lion Guard!" Kion called out. "Let's go!" and the group quickly raced off after the herd.

"Hey, wait, where are you going?" Janja yelled after the Guard. "You're just gonna leave me here?"

“Don’t worry Janja.” “We won’t leave you.” Cheezi and Chungu smiled before they both slid down the cliffside to keep their clan leader company, much to his annoyance as they landed on top of him.

"Oh, whatcha staring at, oryxes?" Tano chuckled as him and his partner advanced on the now trapped oryx herd.

"Never seen smart hyenas before?" Nne taunted.

"They still haven't!" Fuli hissed, tackling Nne and knocking him a few feet back. Tano went to run away, but ended up running right into Applejack, who kicked him in the face with her hind legs.

The two hyenas shook off the blows. "Don't tell me." Nne rolled his eyes. "The Pony and Lion Guard."

"And you must be Janja's new crew." Kion deduced, standing on a medium sized boulder with the rest of his team split up on either side of him.

"We're our own crew." Tano corrected with narrowed eyes.

"So now what?" Nne pressed. "You gonna scare us off with the Roar?" he cackled.

"Hmm, they are pretty smart." Kion smirked before he narrowed his amber-brown eyes and unleashed his Roar, creating a strong wind that blew the hyena pair back into the Outlands.

The Roar's echo reached the cliffside where Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu were stranded. A grin spread across the hyena leader's muzzle, "That's the first time I was ever happy to hear that sound." he chuckled.

However, the power of the echo was enough to shake the ledge loose and it slid down the cliff-side all the way to the ground, covering the trio in mud.

"So, what are we going to do about Janja?" Fuli asked as the Guard made their way back to the cliff where said hyena was stranded.

"Can't we just leave him on the ledge?" Bunga suggested.

"I wish." Kion chuckled. "But we gotta get him off the ledge and out of the Pride Lands."

"Might not be easy." Beshte noted, seeing how steep and slippery the cliff-side was.

The Guard lined up along the ledge and looked over, seeing that the three hyenas weren't anywhere to be seen.

"Uh, are we sure this is the right cliff?" Ono wondered, landing on Twilight’s shoulder

"Janja? Cheezi? Chungu?" Kion called over the cliff, the three hyenas poking their heads out from the mud pile.

"You okay?" Beshte asked.

"Uh, yeah." Janja answered. "I think so."

"Okay, then." Kyoga smirked. "It's time for you to go home."

Janja pulled himself out of the mud, shaking off his paws. "Fine with me." he huffed. "I've had enough of this place for one day." He walked a few feet, before looking back at Chungu and Cheezi, "You coming?"

"Sure, Janja." Cheezi grinned, his eyes lighting up.

"We thought you'd never ask." Chungu laughed, the pair running up to their leader.

"I love a happy ending." Beshte grinned as they watched the three hyenas run back to their den in the Outlands for today Janja himself learned a valuable friendship lesson in regards to Cheezi and Chungu because for all their faults and antics they were always by Janja's side from day one much like true companions through and through.

Author's Note

In this episode put together by Pikachu Skitty, where Janja gets new help from Nne and Tano as his primary new crew members who prove to be very competent and effective compared to most villains in the show. In fact, too smart for Janja as he winds up being betrayed by his new crew. Interestingly, he ends up learning a friendship lesson for once as he comes to value Cheezi and Chungu more. Following these events as much like the Lion and Pony Guard, true friends stick together like glue no matter what.

Next up is "Sweet and Elite." where Rarity and Kion head to Canterlot together with Twilight's birthday right around the corner.

Episode 14: Sweet and Elite

Episode 14:

Sweet and Elite

With every passing day, there is always a new friendship lesson learned somewhere with something big happening along the way. They had just stopped another hyena attack at the Pride Lands who had some hidden brains in Janja’s clan that no one has paid attention to before and who knows what would have happened had they not caught on to it in time. Deep down there was some good inside Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu along its still clear they have a ways to go before they ready to understand the Circle of Life.

With that dealt with, there are two new big things coming up. One was Rarity having a new project to work on to which she requires a business trip in Canterlot so she can gather the supplies she needs. And second and most importantly was Twilight’s birthday this upcoming weekend. Once all of her friends have heard about it, they were all on board with helping Pinkie Pie with the preparations.

Kion, being Twilight’s best friend, really wanted to do something special for her in getting her a present. So when Twilight asked Princess Celestia to accommodate Rarity for her brief stay in Canterlot, the young prince was quick to pick up on the opportunity to join Rarity so he can do some shopping there. And since here in Equestria they do have a currency system here, he did have to bring some gold coins (a.k.a. bits) with him for the trip to which Rarity was very generous in providing him.

As for their stay, Princess Celestia has arranged for the two with their very suite for the time-being something that both and especially Rarity were very grateful for the princess’s hospitality as the two were led to their room on one of the tall towers in the castle.

“Here? I get to stay here?” Rarity gasped in amazement as the princess leads them along with Opal inside their room to which is just like her room back at home.

“Twilight Sparkle said you were coming to Canterlot for a visit, and asked if I might accommodate you.” Celestia replied as Opal had already started making herself feel at home.

“Thank you so much, Princess.”

“Yeah thanks.”

The two thanked her.

“You're very welcome.” She thought nothing of it as Rarity rushed her thinking otherwise.

“No, really. This is so nice of you.” She insisted.

“It's nothing, really.” She returned as Rarity could not stop.

“Oh, but it isn't nothing, it's everything! I, I just don't know what to say but thank you, thank you!” She expressed as quickly bowed down and started kissing the princesses hoof repeatedly to which she was slightly uncomfortable and awkward in response to the unicorn’s overly done gestures. “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

During this, Kion can only shake his head knowing her overly-dramatic friend when it comes to royalty even him as she seems to do this almost every time when they meet up together.

“You are very we–“ Celestia again thanked before being cut off mid-sentence.

“Thank you!”

When Rarity was finally done showering the princess’s hooves with kisses the bag valet had arrived with Rarity’s luggage to which she predictably brought a “fair.” amount. And by that that’s enough for the porter to have his hooves nearly break down from reaching past his limits.

“Your luggage, mademoiselle?” He asked of the unicorn as he struggled to keep his hooves from breaking from the heavy weight of the suitcases and bags.

“I’ll leave you to get settled.” Princess Celestia said while departing from the room.

“Your highness.” The bag valet strained as he gave her his dues.

“Enjoy your stay.” She said before walking down the steps and left the two alone.

“Thank you.“ Rarity called out to the princess one more time as Kion moved to help out the bag valet before he could hurt himself.

“Here.” Kion quickly offered as he pulled some of the luggage off of the pile at a time until there was no more for him to carry.

“Phew. Thanks.”

“No problem.”

“Thank you!” Rarity thanked them. “You both are true gentleman.”

”You’re welcome.” The bag valet kindly returned as he turned to the luggage now on the floor.

“No problem, Rarity.” Kion returned in kind too. “Although I do wonder why you need this much luggage even though we are only gone until the weekend?”

“Oh, Kion, darling. One can never have too many things around in case of an emergency.” She replied it’s a necessity.

“Even if our carrier is pushed to his limits?” He asked as he gestured to the recovering pony resting his legs as he sits down on a nearby chair while rubbing them.

“I’m sure he’ll be fine after a minute.” Rarity assured as she looks on at their new room before settling in as they both set up the room to their liking before setting out with their tasks.

While Kion went out shopping, Rarity retreated to a nearby café in town for some tea time with her beloved feline pet Opal as she helps to herself to a bowl of cream while wearing a pink fashionable sunhat.

“Opal, do you know what I love about Canterlot?” She asked as she sipped her tea. “Ahh. Everything! I may have been born in Ponyville, but I am a Canterlot pony at heart.” She added as she took over sip. “Now, I know that we are here to pick up some fabrics for the shop, but Twilight was such a dear to get me that suite at the castle, I simply must make her something to express my gratitude especially since Kion is planning on getting her a present.” She thought of what she can for her until she thought as she took another sip while spotting a fancy dress wearing mare walking by. “An outfit for her birthday party this weekend! Perfect! Don't you just love it here, Opalescence?”

As Rarity took another sip she was overheard and spotted by a fancy couple. Upon noticing them mid-sip she stopped as she nervously grinned as she got cream on her nose.

“Please excuse our interruption.” The male pony of the married couple addressed her as the unicorn wiped her nose clean. “I'm Jet Set, and this is my wife Upper Crust. We saw you from across the cafe and just had to find out...”

“...Where did you get that simply marvelous chapeau?” Her wife finished while gesturing to her hat.

“Oh, this old thing?” She asked. “Oh, it's just something I–“ She began before being interrupted by a goofy window cleaner from above.

“Rarity! Hey, Rarity!” He greeted as his harness snapped and fell down while now upside down being held up by one rope. “Whoo! It's me, Hayseed Turnip Truck! We met at the big hoedown in Ponyville last month?”

“Oh, yes, of course... how are you?” Rarity nervously responded with a forced polite grin.

“Good! Real good!” He returned as the rope snapped causing him to fall down to the ground as the couple expressed disdain hearing this.

“You're from... Ponyville?” The colt asked.

“Well, yeah, yes, but–“ She honestly began before being interrupted by the window washer as he got up and placed a hoof around just as Kion was walking by and noticed the commotion.

“She sure is! She's a real big-time fancy pants dressmaker there! Probably made that real purty thing she's got on her head!”

“I thought it looked a little country.” The mare commented to her husband in a condescending tone.

“I told you it wasn't something you could get here in Canterlot, dear.” He returned as Kion spoke up.

“So what?” He asked them as approached them with a gift wrapped present in his yellow and red saddlebag.

“Excuse us?” The colt returned rather confused and offended that a lion cub is talking to them that way.

“You heard me.” He firmly repeated. “Just a minute ago you were interested by her well-designed hat and now you’re having second thoughts just because she from Ponyville?”

“Well excuse us if our taste and prefences don’t align with your’s cub.” She returned as if he needs to be reminded of his manners.

“Okay…” Kion responded as he felt his temper rising as he maintains his composure. “…Well this lion cub happens to be the son of King Simba, so that makes me a prince.”

“Really…oh…” The mare suddenly responded rather embarrassed along with her husband. “Our apologies, your highness.” She added as they both bowed to him as Kion just shakes his head in disgust of how quick they were to change their tone.

“Just get moving.” He simply told to them to go as they quickly yet properly do so.

“Yes my prince. Right away.” The stallion wasted no time in doing so as they both left him and Rarity alone.

“Well, they seemed real nice.” The window washing colt replied as Rarity released a disappointed sigh as Kion takes a few deep breaths to completely calm himself down before turning back the unicorn tearing up feeling really hurt by those disparaging comments.

“You okay, Rarity?” He asked.

“I’m fine.” She answered as she made her way back to their suite as she struggles to keep herself from crying. “I just need to go back to our room.”

The two walked back over to their suite as Rarity closes the doors after them as she looks at herself in the mirror long and hard.

“Look…I know what happened back there is really getting to you and I’m sorry for what you saw, but don’t listen to them.” Kion tried to comfort her as she is still deep in downcast thought. “Those ponies don’t know what they’re talking about.”

“”Looked a little country. Not something you can get in Canterlot.”” Rarity repeated still incensed by their insults as she gets puts on her reading glasses to get right to work on a new dress design to prove them wrong. “I'll show you something worthy of Canterlot!”

As Rarity got right to work, Kion is let feeling the damage is already been done as she is now determined to prove to every doubting pony in Canterlot wrong.

Once Rarity has what she wants set in stone she sets out into the streets to get what she needs all while Kion tries to stop being true to herself.

“I have to get started right away. This new design is very ambitious, and I've already written to Twilight to let her know she'll have something beyond fabulous to wear to her party.” Rarity vowed while carrying Opal in her portable cage as Kion keeps up with her.

“Rarity please!” He called after her.

“Don’t worry, I know what I am doing.” Rarity remained certain with her head up as high as she accidentally bumps into a stallion in front of her and ends up dropping her belongings by accident.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed as he rushed over to help Rarity up as the mare accompanying him does the same to him.

As Kion helps Rarity to her hooves, the mare removes the bag covering the gentlemen’s face as he shake his head off.

“Fancy Pants!” Rarity voiced while lost for words upon seeing him as his wife made sure he was okay as Kion did the same for Rarity.

“I say, that's one way to make an introduction.” The male unicorn with a white fur coat wearing a black tuxedo with a purple bow-tie with blue combed back mane and matching small and thin mustache, and a matching monocle began as the white coated unicorn with a long pink mane brushed the dust off of her husband.

“Oh, goodness, I am so sorry. I didn't see you there.” Rarity apologized. “I've just got so many bags and I was trying to get back to my suite at the castle and–“

“You're staying at the castle?” He asked.

“Wh– The Princess invited me to stay in one of the suites.” She replied as she picked up her belongings with Kion helping her.

“You know the Princess?” He asked again.

“Hmm, a pony with expensive tastes, I see.” His wife responded rather delightfully as she levitated one of Rarity’s dropped bags back to her.

“Oh, it's for an ensemble I'm making for a friend. Her birthday is in a few days.” She answered as she ended up placing Opal in one of the bags before preparing to walk off ahead. “Again, I am really sorry I bumped into you.”

“I'm not!” Fancy assured it’s no big deal as she stopped in her tracks. “Heheh, you are obviously somepony worth bumping into!” Hearing that brought a smile in Rarity’s heart while Kion seemed very pleased to see this pony as kind as their friends. “Listen, I have a VIP box reserved at the Wonderbolts Derby this afternoon. Would you, would you along with your friend be so kind as to join me and a few of my companions there?” He offered.

“Me?”

“But of course, my dear.”

“Well, I'm, uh, ah- no- sure.” Rarity hesitated before answering yes to which Kion wasn’t so sure of what she is doing.

“We'd love to see you there, uh...?” Fancy Pants replied as he tried to remember her name.

“Rarity.”

“Rarity.” Fancy Pants said as he walked off ahead as his wife was patting the curls on her mane before realizing he walked off ahead and quickly ran off back to his side leaving the delighted unicorn who is now having a small dilemma on her hooves with what she had just agreed too as she and Kion walked back over to the suite.

“So…what are you thinking?” Kion asked as Rarity paced around the room.

“Pro: Seeing the Derby from a VIP box is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Con: Going to the Derby cuts into the amount of time I have to finish Twilight's outfit. Pro: Fancy Pants is the most important pony in Canterlot.” She replied as she thought this through. “His stamp of approval could mean big things for me here. Con: Twilight's party might not be as sophisticated as the Derby, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't put all of my energy into creating her birthday ensemble.”

“That’s true but are you sure that is the right way to go on about this?” Kion responded as if she is going about this the wrong way.

“My Ponyville friends will appreciate my hard work more than anypony. I'd hate to let them down.” She replied as she pondered for a moment. “And I won't.” She then resolved as she put on her big and pink fashionable and fancy hat. “Opal, Kion, I am going to the Wonderbolts Derby as a guest of Fancy Pants!” She declared as she giggles excitedly.

“Okay…” Kion just accepted it. “…Just remember of the deadline.” He reminded as she left the room.

“I won’t.” She returned leaving Kion and Opal turning to face each other as the former asks the question he is thinking of.

“You don’t think she will do you?”

Opal responded with a bored blank expression as she thinks she will get caught up in her attempts to please them while straying away from what really defines her.

Rarity would then arrive at the stadium as promised as she makes her way to over where Fancy Pants and his wife are seated at the VIP section.

“Pardon me. 'Scuse me, 'scuse me!” Rarity excused herself as she makes her way through while passing by the rude couple that insulted her from earlier.

As she arrives at the guarded VIP section, Fancy Pants arrive at the gated entrance as the guard gives the young mare a serious look of whether she has invitation or not to be there.

“Rarity, jolly good to see you! So glad you could make it.” Fancy Pants pleasantly greeted as the guard smiled and levitated the rope to allow in her leaving the couple jaw dropped seeing this.

As the two arrive upstairs in the section, mares and gentecolts gather around him very pleased to see him.

“Everypony, this is Rarity. She's staying at Canterlot Castle.” Fancy Pants introduced everyone to the unicorn to which sparked confused mummers and gasps from them to which left Rarity worried as the announcer speaks through the loudspeaker.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to the Wonderbolts Derby! The competitors are taking their places at the starting line, and the race will begin momentarily!” He announced.

“I'll be rooting for Rapidfire, of course. He's sure to take home the grand prize.” Fancy placed his bets as everyone else agreed.

“I don't think he has a chance against Fleetfoot.” Rarity honestly voiced otherwise to which sparked surprise again as she finds herself widening a forced grin as they hear fanfare which means the race is about to start.

A referee blows his whistle as the Wonderbolts all take off a run few quick laps as he then waves the checkered flag as they all cross the line for the final time.

“And it's Fleetfoot by a nose!”

Rarity cheered hearing this as Fancy Pants seemed further impressed with how she ended picking the winner today.

“Bravo, Rarity! I say, how did you know Fleetfoot would be victorious?” Fancy Pants then asked.

“My friend Rainbow Dash talks about her all the time.” Rarity replied. “She says what Fleetfoot lacks in size, she makes up for in speed.”

“And who is this 'Rainbow Dash'?” An elderly mare asked.

“Uh...” Rarity hesitated to tell the truth as she nervously gulped with another forced grin with sweating dropping from her forehead before quickly resorting to a quick little lie. “Why... she's... she's the... the Wonderbolts' trainer, of course.”

“Staying at Canterlot Castle, and she knows the Pegasus training the Wonderbolts. I told you all this was an important pony.” Fancy Pants further voiced his praises as everyone around her is really taking a liking to her as they all gather around her while she secretly wipes the sweat from her forehead in relief.

“Three cheers for Rarity, my new favorite party guest!” Fancy Pants stated as he raised her right hoof as she winks at the further stunned couple with how bad they were to quickly judge her about first sight.

“Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip, hooray!” Everyone cheered for the now greatly appreciated unicorn.

Although she soon find herself with a big conflict coming her way as she gets so into talking the Canterlot ponies she is starting to forget about her true friends as one of them is currently taking the time in getting started on Rarity’s plans for Twilight seeing that she is gone longer than expected.

“...And then I said, "Puh-lease, that isn't a hat, darling, that's a natural disaster that somehow landed atop your head!" Rarity further joked as everyone found it funny.

“Oh, you are a delight, Rarity, an absolute delight. You simply must attend my art gallery opening this evening.” The mare from earlier complimented.

“Oh, I'd love to, but I–“ Rarity tried to politely decline.

“And let's not forget my charity auction tomorrow morning.” Another pony insisted.

“Well, that sounds wonderful, but I–“

“And of course there's a seat for you at my dinner party tomorrow night.” Another pony added another invitation on her growing pile-up of commitments to which she doubles down on her efforts to back out of it as she tried to leave.

“I'm flattered, really. It's just I have a project I really need to get started on, and-“

“Oh, but Rarity! I may as well close down the whole gallery if you can't attend!”

“My auction is for charity, dear. For charity...”

“And my dinner party will be a disaster if you don't come.”

The three ponies really and desperately pressed for her to come as she finds herself no longer able to turn them down.

“...of course I'll be there.” She relented.

“Wonderful!”

“Oh, thank goodness!”

“Disaster averted!”

They all expressed their delighted relief as Rarity is forcibly smiling again of what she is putting herself through.

Shortly afterwards, Rarity returned to her suite just as Kion got together the start of Twilight’s dress to which he really had to use his claws to get some of the required close eye stitching done right.

“Rarity.” He greeted.

“Oh hey Kion!” She returned as she took off her hat and turned her to jewelry box. “How’s it going?”

“Going fine. Just wondering where have you been?” He responded while trying to treat it as no big deal as possible.

“Oh, I just got caught with spending time with Fancy Pants and his friends.” She answered. “I honestly didn’t mean to be gone for so long.”

“Well you’re lucky to have a friend to help you get started on Twilight’s dress because if I didn’t learn the basics back then, you sure would have fallen really behind.” Kion responded while gesturing to the start-up dress he made from scratch.

“Oh, thanks you.” Rarity answered feeling pleased with his friend’s generosity as she went over her accessories. “And with all things considered it looks like we'll be spending a few more days here.”

“What do you mean?”

“Turns out bumping into Fancy Pants like that was the best thing that's ever happened to me.” She answered as she put on the pink ribbon along with the dress on the mannequin before tending to her jewelry. “Since then I have been invited to a dinner party, an auction, and an art gallery showing.”

“What?”

“I know right! How lucky am I?”

“Are you serious?” Kion asked still shocked of what he is hearing and what she had just committed herself too. “Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad to hear that, but are you sure about this? What about Twilight’s dress?”

“Of course, finishing Twilight's dress in time for her birthday party is still my top priority, but I can't possibly disappoint the Canterlot elite by rejecting their invitations now, can I?” She returned as she eagerly grinned at the lion cub to join her.

“Rarity…?”

“Please…?”

“Fine.” He relented with a sigh. “But only if you promise to ensure that Twilight’s dress is made in time and we get back to Ponyville in time for her birthday party.”

“Oh don’t you worry darling?” She assured as she placed on a gold tiara with a blue gemstone on top. “Everything will be fine.”

“I certainly hope so.” Kion voiced with uncertainty given with how high up her head is trying to win another pony’s approval over valuing her friendship and role to the Lion and Pony Guard.

“I'll be the toast of the town, the girl on the go

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know

I'll be the one to watch, the girl in the flow

I'm the type of ony every pony, every pony should know.”

Rarity sang as she properly adjusted her tiara, brushed her mane, sprayed perfume on her face with a little makeup on her face, before petting her pet cat on the head before walking off outside with Kion following her as he and Opal look on with disapproving frowns at the unicorn.

“Becoming as popular as popular can be

Making my mark, making my mark in high society

I'm the belle of the ball, the star of the show, yeah

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know.”

She sang as Rarity went to the art gallery while giving her nod of approval to the other rich ponies while Kion just watches while from the back as she wears a French-style outfit with her mane straighten down to which everyone including Photo Finish all smiled and shared voices of agreement.

“See how they hang on every word that I speak

My approving glance is what they all seek

I'm the creme de la creme, not just another Jane Doe

I'm the type of pony every pony should know.”

Rarity then sang as they made their way to the auction as Rarity now wearing a fancy magenta dress with her mane tied together in a bun as she first raises her hoof when the auctioneer proposes a red and gold Greek looking vase to which everyone else follows suit too.

All but Kion who still watches from the back just here for support even though he is not liking all of the time they are wasting for this before making their way to the dinner party. As she is now wearing a fancy blue dress with a differently styled mane for the occasion as she basks in the approval of the Canterlot Elite as she is the first to lead everyone around into trying the first set of appetizers.

And he is right because next thing he knows they are dragged into many more events with the Canterlot Elite such as going to an opera, riding on a yacht, cruise boat christening, along with another fancy party Fancy Pants was attending. All the while cutting into her originally scheduled time to make Twilight’s dress.

“At home, at the opera, on a fancy yacht

Becoming the talk, the talk of all of Canterlot

I'm the creme de la creme, not just another Jane Doe, yeah

I'm the type of pony every pony, every pony should know.”

Finally the two were able to go home as Rarity was now too tired to get to work as she collapsed on her bed even when Opal tapped on her drawing board to remind her.

“Because I'm the type of pony

Yes, I'm the type of pony

Yes, I'm the type of pony every pony should know.”

Seeing that she is not going to get it done in time before they have to head back, Kion decides to take his paws in making sure it is designed to how Rarity envisioned it while cutting out the overly fancy parts to the best of his ability. It took a little late into the night, but he managed to get the job done before he passed out on his bed in exhaustion.

The next morning, the two visitors both got packed up ready to head back to Ponyville. While Rarity loaded her baggage on the bag valet’s shoulders, Kion got his saddle-bag containing his gift wrapped present for Twilight on his back.

“Oh, I hope I haven't forgotten anything.” Rarity said to herself as she loaded the last of her belongings.

“Me... too...” The pony added as he strained and struggled like last time in dealing with the heavy luggage.

“We'd better get going.” Rarity stated as she levitated her pet cat into her cage while dragging her off of the bed covers she was just getting comfortable on. “I must get back to Ponyville with enough time to finish Twilight's ensemble.”

“About time.” Kion muttered as he is still carrying some baggage of staying up longer than he should have as evidenced from rubbing his eyes to get himself fully awake.

Just as they were about to head out a letter with a red Canterlot seal was placed through the mailbox to their room.

“For me?” Rarity responded as she opened up the letter and read it while Kion gives the struggling pony some support to ease the burden for the moment by lifting up the luggage too.

“Dearest Rarity, your presence is requested at the Canterlot garden party tomorrow afternoon.

Yours, Jet Set and Upper Crust!”

She read as she gasped in delight.

“The Canterlot garden party! Why, next to the Galloping Gala that is the premier event in Canterlot!“ She squealed as she is ready to accept another invite.

“Tomorrow?! But Twilight’s birthday party is tomorrow.” Kion pointed out as he turned to draw the line with her. “You can’t miss that.”

“I know…But if I don't go, my new reputation in Canterlot as a Very Important Pony might be ruined!” Rarity still can’t pass it down as she levitates the two pieces of paper one with Twilight’s dress design in tow as she makes a tough choice for herself. “I might never be invited to another high society event again! Friend's birthday... Very Important Pony...” She boggled before nearly exploding as her face turned pink briefly as she held her breath. “It's just too important.” She then decided as she composed a letter.

“My dear Twilight,

I am afraid I won't be able to make it to your birthday party tomorrow, because... because poor Opal is quite ill, and she is in no condition to make the long journey back to Ponyville!

I do hope you understand.

Your friend, Rarity.”

She said as she wrote rather dramatically as Kion could only look on in disappointment with her.

“I suppose this means you don't need me to bring down your bags?” The pony carrying her bags asked.

“No. But, I will need some help unpacking them.” She returned as he dropped onto his knees and ended up dropping the luggage to the ground by accident.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed in a rather resigned tone as he moves to help put away her luggage. “Why must she do this to us?”

With her decision cemented and once everything was settled back into place, Rarity then fashioned herself with a fancy sun-colored dress with flowers fashioned in her tail while both Kion and Opal watch while sitting on her bed with the former having his front paws disapprovingly crossed in response to her decision.

“What do you think? Too much?” She asked Kion as he remained silent and frowning.

“You tell me, it’s your outfit. I’m no fashion expert.” He remarked still not changing his expression.

“You're right. Too little.” She then decided to add a matching colored hat to complete her outfit while missing the point Kion was trying to get her to come across from his response.

“Not exactly what I was trying to say but okay.” Kion just left it at that as he moved towards the door. “Have fun, do what you desire. I am going back home so I can make it to Twilight’s birthday party .

“Ah, garden party, here I come!” Rarity blissfully walked up to the door along with Kion as they prepare to leave when the doors opened to reveal their friends happy faces.

“Surprise!” They all cheered leaving Kion startled while Rarity faints from complete shock of their unexpected arrival to which the prince quickly caught her before she could hit her head.

“Wow!” Kion started.

“Is she okay?” Kyoga asked as they all look on the passed out unicorn.

“Yes.” He answered. “Just wasn’t expecting you all here so soon.”

“I know here we were at Ponyville getting ready for Twilight’s birthday party and when we got Rarity’s letter and came over as soon as we could to surprise her. And boy was she surprised? I mean she was, Swoosh! And right before she hit the ground, shoom, she…” Pinkie rapidly explained as they all see Rarity coming too. “Hi again!” She greeted again.

“What are you– how did you– Why are you–“ Rarity stammered for the right words

“Listen to her. She's so excited to see us, she can hardly talk.” Applejack said.

“What I mean to say is, what are you all doing here?” Rarity corrected as she questioned them.

“When I got your letter saying you were stuck in Canterlot, I asked Pinkie Pie if it wouldn't be too much trouble to move my birthday party here, so you wouldn't have to miss it!” Twilight explained.

“All for one and one for all!” Bunga stated as Pinkie opened up a suitcase filled with balloons to which all deflated with one of them flying up towards the gem on Rarity’s necklace.

“Balloons are super easy to pack.“

“Well, Happy Birthday Twilight.” Kion said to the unicorn.

“Thanks.” She replied with a smile.

“Wow...” Rarity began rather speechless. “First you get me a suite at Canterlot Castle and now this. I don't know what to say, Twilight.”

“How about you start by saying what you're doing in that fancy getup?” Rainbow pointed the dress she is currently wearing as she flew into her face.

“This? Uh- well, I- I…” Rarity stammered to explain. “I always put on something a little fancy when Opal's feeling under the weather... Cheers her right up.”

Kion could only shake his head with how poorly that lie was constructed as Kyoga sees through it too with how she is grinning nervously and shifting her eyes around.

“Oh, poor Opal. Where is the sick darling?” Fluttershy asked after buying the lie.

“Oh, uhh, she's... Hold on a minute.” She quickly replied as she shut the door much to the other’s confusion

“Huh?” Everyone but Kion and Kyoga said in unison as they both share a look that say’s in their minds.

“Rarity’s hiding something isn’t she?”

“Yes.”

Rarity then quickly went inside and drenched her pet cat in the hot shower after forcibly dragging her off of the bed covers again.

“I am so sorry about this.” She apologized before reopening the doors to allow her friends in.

“She's resting on the bed.” She replied as Fluttershy quickly comforted her.

“Poor baby.” She hugged her tightly in her arms. “She looks awful.

As Opal viciously and angrily growls at her owner for doing that to her, Twilight spots the dress design on the mannequin.

“Is... that my dress?”

“Yes.” She responded as she now worries of what she has done since she didn’t allow herself the proper time to complete it as she examined with what she along with Kion have done in putting it together for her.

“It's so... simple. So practical.” She began as Rarity started to sweat thinking she is going to claim the worst until she heard her say... “So me! It's the perfect dress for my birthday party! I love it!” She happily stated as she hugged her friend very thankful for her birthday gift to her to which Rarity sighed in relief.

“You don't know how glad I am to hear you say that.” She expressed as she quickly tossed aside the design into the trash bin to which Kion whispered in the white unicorn’s ear…

“Lucky.”

Once Twilight got in her new dress, the group all made their way down the hallways inside the castle.

“When I told the Princess that I was moving the party to Canterlot, she was kind enough to offer us the Canterlot Castle ballroom!” She told everyone as they directed their attention to the prepared room.

“Poa!” Beshte commented as the birthday mare is greeted to Spike to whom he was waiting for them to arrive while they fetched Rarity.

“Happy Birthday, Twilight!” Spike happily greeted as he jumped around the unicorn’s neck.

“Thank you Spike!” She replied as he hopped off as everyone marvels at the setup inside.

“Didn’t you all wreck the room the last time we were here?” Kyoga brought up.

“Oh yeah! They sure did.“ Bunga didn’t even deny as he is met with sharp glares from the group. “What?”

“Okay, okay, everyone but Twilight and Kion…as well as Fuli, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack, and Beshte, and Ono.” He added one by one as they all back off as the others don’t even deny they did make a mess the last time they were there.

“Isn't it fancy pants?” Pinkie asked as Rarity reacted with alarm taking the term a different meaning.

“Fancy Pants?! Where?!” She asked as she quickly hid behind Rainbow Dash as the others minus Kion give her confusions looks. “Ahh, I mean, where did you find the time to put up all these decorations?” She quickly corrected herself to avoid suspicion. “Ha-ha.”

“Oh, I never leave home without my party cannon!” Pinkie replied as she presented said item and blasted a table cloth on one of the tables with balloons and confetti to which Rarity returned an irritated look. “Ta-da!”

“I thought about having my birthday outside, but they're having another party on the castle grounds today.” Twilight explained while gesturing to another group of ponies gathering outside in the castle garden to which Rarity quickly ducked out away from the window to avoid being spotted.

Outside was the garden party she had originally planned on going as both Kion and Kyoga spotted the party outside as Kion turned away in disgust as he saw the two ponies from earlier that aggravated him while Kyoga has no interest in rich and elite folks as she scoffed upon seeing the vibe from inside.

“Let's party!” Pinkie declared as Bunga turned on the music as they got the party started.

They began by throwing Twilight up and down into the air and catching her multiple times.

Then they all had cake together with Twilight cutting everyone a slice to which everyone happily enjoyed. Then Fluttershy and Applejack get cake splattered in their faces along with Fuli and Ono. They all turn to see Rainbow Dash and Bunga having thrown the cake slices at them while laughing at them…

…At least until they find themselves surrounded by the entire crew smirking as they gang up on the two pranksters to give them their just desserts in retaliation. Before they all shared a family-friendly laugh together.

Next up was a group dance as they all danced while following the leader with everyone following Twilight’s lead as she leads the party dance with Pinkie, Fluttershy, Kion, Fuli, Applejack, Bunga, Beshte, Ono, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all following after her.

All while Rarity wonders of how she can arrange to attend both parties with Twilight and her friends moving the party here.

“Mmh... No reason I can't at least make an appearance...” She thought to herself as she sneaks away from the caboose position while Kyoga watching the whole group dance spots her sneaking away while everyone was focused on their current party activity.

“And there seems no reason why you have to make it a secret.” She commented as she watched her mingle with the ponies outside as some ponies play classical music with a few violinists, a cello player, and a harp player providing the music.

“I'm here!” Rarity announced.

“Darling, I'm so glad you made it.” The mare greeted as Fancy Pants approached her.

“Rarity! So happy to see you here.” He greeted.

“I wouldn't have missed this for the world.” Rarity returned as he picked up an odd scent.

“I say, what is that scent you're wearing? It smells like... Is that cake frosting?” He asked to which Rarity’s eyes shrinked briefly before responding.

“...Yes, I always dab a little frosting behind my ears before I go out.” She nervously laughed as the mare looked skeptical of her claim. “After all, who doesn't like the smell of cake frosting?”

“I know I do.”

“Mm-hmm.”

The two replied as if they actually don’t mind the smell of cake to which Rarity sighed in relief that her lies are actually flying by the radar.

“Well, all this talk about cake has made me hungry. Think I'll go and see what's on the hors d'oeuvre table. If you'll excuse me...” She said before leaving the two to converse before making her way back over to Twilight’s party where everyone has put on blindfolds in preparation for the next party activity.

Piñata cracking as everyone has their own piñatas to try to break. Of course, since they all were blindfolded it was very difficult at first but they were all eventually able to bust open the hidden candy inside of them.

During this, Rarity continued splitting her time in between as she backed out, fetched herself an appetizer, and then dipped it in a bowl of melted chocolate as the others dipped their candy in the bowl. Because she mixed dinner food with the sweets she had a rather disgusted expression before spitting it out which earned her looks from Twilight, Pinkie, Bunga, Kion, and Fuli. She quickly distracted the ponies by turning their attention to something in the opposite direction before switching back over to the garden party.

But at this point, Fuli along with Kion and Kyoga weren’t fooled and it was pretty clear she is up to something as she keeps throwing in excuses as she starts getting tired out from all of the multiple and constants excuses as the Guard all dances while the Canterlot Elite converses.

“I think I left the bathwater running in my suite.”

“I really should go check on Opal...”

“Is that Princess Celestia?”

“I need to use the little fillies' room!”

“Can I get anypony more punch?”

“I... have to go to do the... thing with the... stuff... you know...?”

She traded between Twilight and Fancy Pants until she tired herself out from all of the constant back and forth switches.

“Uh, what's with the croquet mallet?” Rainbow asked as she held a party balloon in her hooves.

“What croquet mallet?” Rarity asked in a muffled tone while not noticing she is still carrying said croquet mallet in her mouth as everyone stopped dancing and turn their full attention to her.

“Duh, the one in your mouth!” Bunga pointed out as the music stopped.

“Common knowledge really.” Ono quipped.

“Ooh, that croquet mallet.” Rarity laughed nervously seeing that she did bring a croquet mallet inside. “I- well I, you know, the truth is... the truth is...“

“The truth is what?” Fuli asked wanting to know why.

“Were you at that other party in the garden?” Twilight asked in a shocked tone.

“I, I...”

“Busted.” Kyoga whispered in her ear.

“Rarity, I'm surprised at you.” Twilight sounding somewhat disappointed in Rarity’s eyes as she quickly ran over to her practically on the ground groveling and begging for forgiveness while Kion just watches knowing that this would happen.

“Twilight let me explain! I–“

“I hadn't realized you were such a savvy businesspony!” She responded with a smile.

“You must understand! I–“ She pleaded not hearing a word she said.

“All of those ponies look so posh. And with the Grand Galloping Gala coming up, I bet you could totally get some of them to buy your dresses. Very smart!” She figured and complimented.

“Another Grand Galloping Gala.” Fuli groaned. “I just hope it’s better than the last one.”

“Woo, wwwhy yes, I-I didn't want you to think I was being rude, so that's exactly the reason I didn't tell you. The one and only reason.“ She went along with that as she threw in some nervous laughter.

“Oh, well, you didn't have to do that. You should totally go over there and mingle!” Twilight then allowed her to go over there.

“Twilight, you really are the best friend a pony could ever ask for.” She thankfully returned with a hug. “I don't know why I ever thought you wouldn't understand.”

“Understand what?” Twilight asked of what she meant by that.

“Nothing. See you girls later!” Rarity returned as she trotted back outside until Rainbow stopped her in her tracks.

“Hey, wait up! We're your friends! I'm sure they won't mind if we check out the party too!” Rainbow told her as she floated in front of her before turning to the others. “C'mon, you guys! Let's show them how to party Ponyville style!”

“Let’s.” Bunga eagerly wasted no time in bolting out the door first.

“Count me in!” Spike agreed as he raced alongside Bunga.

“Wait for us!” Ono called out after them.

“Don’t forget us!” Beshte called after them too following after the ponies leaving Rarity with the feline trio.

“Oh no!” She expressed as Kion, Fuli, and Kyoga walk beside her.

“What’s the matter, Rarity?” Fuli asked teasingly. “Afraid your friends might have a little too much fun with your new fancy rich ponies you seem more interested in hanging out with.

“Well…I…” Rarity stammered as she ran off ahead.

“Figure it out all on your own did you?” Kion asked Fuli.

“Yep.”

“And you too?” He asked Kyoga.

“Yep.”

“And see that Rarity is trying really hard to impress her new Canterlot friends?” Kion asked them both.

“Yep!” They replied in unison.

“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Kion asked his feline friends with a devious smirk.

“Yep.” Kyoga nodded as adopting the same mindset.

“This should be fun.” Fuli did the same as they all went outside together where they all joined their friends who have all already crashed the outside party starting with their follow the leader game.

With Pinkie and her party canon leading the way, followed by Bunga, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Fuli, Bunga, Applejack, and Twilight who is the caboose this time while carrying the record player before partaking in the other activities.

Both Rainbow and Fuli then partook in croquet to which Fuli hit her ball through a couple of rings before hitting one of the metal posts of another one while Rainbow accidentally threw hers away recklessly which ended up pulling off a mare’s mane which apparently turns out to be wig. The stallion talking to her quickly left while she was busy speaking to avoid being in the middle of the scene once she realizes her wig is gone.

Fluttershy and Ono both held out bird seed to the nearby birds in the nearby tree with Fluttershy even presenting some in her mane to which attracting many birds all while dropping some on three nearby ponies from down below.

Pinkie and Bunga along with Spike both dove face first into the dessert table all while disgusting the nearby pony there. The pony there about to eat a cupcake returned an irritated look of disgust before walking away leaving the two ponies confused of why he gave them the look as much as another group of ponies while Spike justr shrug's to say "Their loss." before continuing to chow down on the treats.

At another part of the garden, Applejack and Beshte both get their paws and hooves dirty while doing actual gardening taking the term of gardening literally.

“How come y'all aren't doing any gardening?

“This is a garden party, isn't it?”

The two asked the group of ponies backing away as much as another group of ponies upon seeing Twilight dance wildly with Kion and Spike dancing alongside her while copying her movements in perfect sync.

During all of this, Rarity struggles to keep it together as she gulps down her punch as Kyoga watches the scene alongside while feeling more satisfied of seeing these smug smiling ponies taken down a notch.

“Can you believe what that pony is wearing?” The male pony she met at the café asked the unicorn while gesturing to the dancing unicorn.

“It's just so plain.” His wife added.

“Yeah.” Rarity added with another nervous laugh as Kyoga just smirks at seeing this all unfold.

“Excuse me,” Fancy Pants approached Twilight as he inspected her dress with his monocle. “Might I ask where you got your ensemble?”

“Why, yes! Yes, you may.” She happily replied. “A very, very close friend of mine from Ponyville made it for me.”

Hearing this caused Rarity to spit her punch out accidentally in the face of the two ponies who she was just talking to. Kyoga sips her punch while still adopting the same smirk seeing this.

“Ponyville? You don't say?” Fancy Pants replied.

“I do say. Her name is–“ Twilight returned as Rarity suddenly appeared cutting Twilight off.

“Fancy Pants! Come with me! I'd like to show you this, er, thing that's over there. On the other side of the room.” She tried to continue keeping both her Canterlot and Ponyville friends separate from each other.

“In a moment, my dear.” He insisted on learning the designer of the other unicorn’s dress as everyone around them stopped of what they were doing with all ears. “This lovely filly from Ponyville was just about to tell me who made her charming dress.”

“That dress? Oh come now, who cares, it's just a plain old–“ Rarity tried to downplay it until Twilight quickly said otherwise mid-sentence

“Oh, don't be so modest! This dress you made is beautiful!”

Hearing caused everyone to gasp and drop their things in shock leaving Rarity really backed into a corner with no way to talk herself out of it.

“We all think so!” She added as their friends all joined her.

“You know these ponies along with their friends?“ Fancy Pants asked as the unicorn looked around at the confused expressions from everyone before turning to face the guests.

“Yes. Yes, I do know them.” She confessed. “They may not be as sophisticated as some of you Canterlot ponies, but they are my best friends. And they are without a doubt the most important ponies and friends I know.”

Hearing this spark surprise by everyone along with pleased smiles from her true friends.

“Important ponies and friends? These ruffians?”

“Don't make me laugh!”

The two rich ponies smugly laughed them off again until Fancy Pants spoke up.

“I, for one, find them charmingly rustic.”

He responded to which shut the two up as they were once again put in their place.

“So do I.” Kyoga agreed.

“And I think the dress you made for your friend is lovely.” Fancy Pants continued as he praised the work she had done. “I dare say every mare in Canterlot will be wanting one.”

Rarity smiled as she could not believe of how well this is all working out now.

“Oh, I'd like to place my order right now.”

“I think you should get two.”

The two then quickly expressed their immediate interest as Kion, Fuli, and Kyoga shake their heads again in disgust with how quick they were to change their attitude just because it’s been given a stamp of approval from someone they look up to.

"Suck ups." Fuli muttered.

"You said it." Kyoga muttered back to Fuli.

“Er, yes, now then. How about you introduce me to your friends?” Fancy Pants then asked wanting to get to know them better as Kion winks at their friends for how well they did today.

“With pleasure!” Rarity did so as he got to know the Lion and Pony Guard crew more as they all were more than happy to explain of what they do on patrol and how they resolve issues and stop impending threats on the two kingdoms all while taking a liking to Fancy Pants who represents himself as a nice guy not caught up in the uptight and snooty atmosphere that most ponies showed and is quite friendly just like the Royal Sisters along with Simba and his family.

After the party, everyone all prepared to leave as Twilight carried a tired Spike on her back. He didn’t drink there but he sure indulged in a lot of sweets at the party as much as Pinkie Pie leaving him with an enlarged gut from his little buffet from earlier.

As Rarity and Kion return to their suite so they can pack up and join their friends on the train ride home, Rarity prepared to write another letter to the princess on what she had just learned.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

I wanted to tell you about the important lesson I learned during my visit.”

She began as she wrote while Kion watches her write.

“Now that I would like to hear.” The princess herself voiced as she suddenly appeared right behind them.

“I learned that no matter where you go in life, you should never forget that you are the product of your home and your friends. And that is something always to be proud of, no matter what.” Rarity continued as she walked up to the nearby window.

“Along with not forgetting with who your true friends are. Otherwise you’ll forget to stay true to who you are.” Kion added with a knowing look as if he is saying “Come on, Rarity.” inside his head.

“Right, right.” Rarity returned with a sheepish grin knowing that the prince is right.

“Hm, a very valuable lesson to have learned.” The princess commended.

“It certainly is!” The luggage carrier agreed. “But... might I ask that we hurry things up a bit?! Oh no!” He pleaded as he ended up dropping the luggage again as well as dropping onto his knees to which all three faced each other with amused smiles as they approach to help him out.

“Here, let us help you out.” Kion stepped forward first as he picked up some of Rarity’s belongings.

“Let’s.” The princess agreed as she worked her magic in lifting most of the luggage than the other’s couldn’t carry as they all make their way to the train station where the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard are all waiting for them as Kion hands Twilight his gift to her to which she greatly hugged up as she really liked the thought he put into it.

Author's Note

For this episode, I decided to have Rarity and Kion go to Canterlot together because Kion being Twilight's best friend of the bunch really wanted to do something special for her considering of how much they have helped each other out from day one.

In addition along with Fancy Pants, Kion also represents being an important figure due to his status as prince of the Pride Lands under King Simba but it is self-absorbed or snobbish in contrast to the ponies who look down on everyone for being as rich as them. Both are still as nice as both Simba and Celestia since they treat everyone around them fairly.

Furthermore, Kion is the one to stand up to Rarity as well as try to talk some sense into her to when a snobby couple's putdown left her sinking her mind into the choices she made throughout the episode and in the end she comes through and stays true to herself.

Next up is another birthday episode revolving with Spike taking centerstage in this next and upcoming episode.

Episode 15: Secret of Excess

Episode 15:

Secret of My Excess

At the Golden Oaks Library, both Twilight and Ono are both closing curtains to the nearby windows together as they prepare for something very important today. Something that requires no distractions as they light the nearby candles as they prepare for...

“Re-shelving day!” Twilight declared as she sat down and pulled all of the books from their shelfs before pulling them back up to levitate them with her magic while Ono flies up to help direct them to new shelves as he questions Twilight’s call of where which book goes in which shelf.

“Understanding Medieval Equestria?”

“Pony History.”

“Modern Spellcasting.”

“That's Classics.”

“The Art of the To-Do List...actually, I kinda wanna read that again.”

At that moment the unicorn’s concentration broke when they heard Spike chuckling to which left the two suddenly having books piled on top of them. The two emerged fine both had both had a book sticking onto and through their horn and beak respectively.

“Spike! What are you laughing at?” Twilight irritably asked.

“This little beauty is my birthday present to myself!” He presented a shiny red heart-shaped gem. “It's a fire ruby! I've been aging it for months, and it's almost ripe!” He demonstrated by tapping with a metal instrument which left a nice vibrating sound upon contact before coming downstairs.

“Spike, wait! Watch out for that…” Ono tried to warn Spike before he suddenly tripped on a book on the stairs in front of his path to which he ended up falling over the staircase into the book pile just below him while managing to catch his ruby with his tail.

“…book.” He finished. ”Although pretty good catch.” He added to give him his dues for that.

“Thanks.” Spike giggled. “Hey, you took my advice! Just use the whole floor as one big shelf.” He then said to Twilight who growled in irritation over the fact that things were fine until he interrupted her but dropped it in favor of getting back to work.

Just as she and Ono got back to re-shelving, Rarity came knocking on her doorstep before letting herself.

“Hellooo? Anypony home? Twilight?” Rarity then gasped in amazement once she spots Spike’s gem and got up close to marvel at its beauty. “Is that a fire ruby?! Huh, that must be at least twenty carats! No inclusions, pristine facets...”

“And totally delicious.” Spike added.

“Uhh... if you guys don't mind?” Twilight addressed them with forced politeness.

“We’d like to get on with the re-shelving uninterrupted unless you got something you need.” Ono added just as annoyed as her bookworm buddy.

“Oh, uh, of course. Sorry.” Rarity snapped out of her gaze before turning to Twilight. “I just came by to see if you had any books on historical fashion...” She asked of her before turning back the dragon’s lipping his gem to taste its perfecting texture. “Did you say... delicious?”

“Sure did! Next week's my birthday, and this is my birthday dinner.” He replied as he hugged his beauty as Rarity lifted a reaching and pleading hoof in its direction as she clearly wants it bad as Twilight brings her the requested book with her magic.

“Start with this one.” She suggested before pulling another book from the pile and refocusing on her re-shelving business with Ono.

“Thanks, Twilight. I've got a feeling ruffled taffeta capes are going to make a huge comeback this season, and I want to be ahead of the game...” She began to read as she sat down before trailing off towards Spike’s birthday gem to which she bit into her hoof as her “Gotta have it” instincts are eating into her literally. “I hope it's as tasty as it is beautiful, Spike. I've never seen anything quite so stunning before.” She said to him as he was placing it into his chest.

“Gosh... You really like it, huh?” Spike noticed of how much she really is in his prized possession.

“Like it? It's magnificent.” She responded with eyes that scream “I love it!” inside as Spike then thought of what is probably one of the most noble acts of kindness and generosity he will do at the expense of what he just spent months preparing for.

“Then you should have it.” He said as he gently placed it in her hooves. “This beautiful gem was meant to be with you.”

“I don't know what to say...” Rarity was left taken aback and delighted of what he had just did. ”…this is so thoughtful. Oh, my little Spikey-wikey!” She happily held it in her magic while Spike trails his eyes aside with depressed regret until she gave him a small kiss on his cheek to which stunned him into falling onto his back in complete love-struck shock. “Thank you so much!” She happily expressed as she hopped out of the library with both the book and gem in tow.

“Wow, Spike, that's one of the kindest, most generous things you've ever done.” Twilight complimented. “I've never seen Rarity so happy!”

“Sorry you gave up your ruby.” Ono expressed sympathy for him for what he had just given up. “I know how much you were looking forward to that.”

“It’s okay.” Spike replied with a lovingly tone from being kissed of the pony of his dreams. “It was worth it and I will never wash this cheek again.” He replied with a satisfied sigh and chuckle as he cheeks blushed a bright shade of pink.

One week later, Twilight managed to get the library all set up for the young dragon’s birthday party. A table with cake and cupcakes on one table and punch on another table to which she levitated the ladle approximately two inches to her right. Another party successfully and perfectly set up for her boy.

“Just about finished, Spike? Everypony will be here soon.” She asked he helped put up the ribbons and streamers on the walls.

“There. Perfect! Everything looks perfect!” Spike responded as they both look upon the setup they have both created together.

“Not quite everything.” Twilight replied as she presented him a washcloth

“A washcloth? I don't get it.” He responded in confusion as Twilight looks at him staright in the eye directing his attention to the kiss mark that had remained on his cheek from a week ago. “Ah, no way, Twilight! I said I wasn't gonna wash the cheek that Rarity kissed, and I meant it!” He defiantly refused with crossed arms.

Twilight being the very caring mother and older sister asserts that he needs to take care of every part of his body for great health. She smirked as she draws a hoof into the ground as she prepares to do the job herself. Spike seeing quickly runs off.

“It's over, Spike! I'm cleaning that cheek!” Twilight declared as she purses him before teleporting him back towards her.

“It's mine! Stop it!” Spike demanded as he finds himself running the same part of the library over and over courtesy of Twilight’s magic.

“Never!”

“Twilight...!”

Then suddenly out of nowhere, Pinkie with Bunga in tow appear with party horns appeared.

“Happy birthday!” Pinkie cheered as they sprung confetti into the air as Twilight quickly seizes on the opening to wipe his face clean leaving the baby dragon frowning in disappointment.

Sure, she knows he really wanted to keep the mark on his face, but his health comes first thus it was a must.

“Party time, woo-hoo!” Bunga cheered as the rest of the Guard all appear with gift-wrapped presents in tow.

“Are those... for me?” Spike questioned while surprised seeing this.

“You bet they are, birthday boy.” Applejack replied as she handed him her gift.

“Happy birthday, Spike.” Fluttershy sweetly added as she, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash all hand her their gifts to which Spike greatly appreciated even when he fell onto his back from Rainbow’s barbell gift.

“Whoa!”

Luckily, Fuli was quickly able to catch him before he could while Kion leaped up and grabbed the barbell with one of his arms before gently settling it down.

“You okay?” Kion asked.

“Yep.” Spike replied as Fuli helped him back on his feet.

“Everything okay, Spike?” Beshte asked as everyone saw his puzzled expression as he looked upon his gifts.

“Don't you know you get presents on your birthday?” Rainbow asked.

“Well, actually, this is my first birthday in Ponyville... I usually just get one present... from Twilight. A book.” He explained as he answered with a disappointed frown just as Twilight was about to approach him with a gift-wrapped book in tow.

She quickly stopped upon hearing that as she looked back at the book she was about to give him before backing away slowly as she hid it behind her back while grinning and blushing rather sheepishly.

“Oops.” Kyoga remarked seeing this from both ends in an understanding manner. “Surely she didn’t mean to give you a gift you didn’t like.”

“Speaking of presents, this is from my new line of taffeta capes.” Rarity then spoke presenting a cape-like cloth. “I'm going to make one for each of you!”

Everyone all marveled in amazement of her latest design.

“I've been inspired by the generosity of my little Spikey-wikey, who gave me this beautiful fire ruby, one of the kindest acts I've ever experienced.” She further explained as she presented the gem she is now wearing as a heart shaped necklace while nuzzling him cheek to cheek.

The party then went on as everyone donned their party hats as they all help themselves to cake and treats as the birthday dragon opened his presents. And surely, Spike was very happy at the many presents his friends gave him.

To him, it was like nothing he could ever dream of getting in years since this is the first time he is actually receiving something he actually likes for once. And by the time he went through most of his gifts he went through Applejack’s gift-wrapped box which had a blanket with apples on it.

“Applejack, I can't thank you enough for this great blanket. I really needed a new one.” He thanked as he hugged the farm pony just as he was eating an apple.

“C'mon, Spike, you already thanked me fifteen times.” She gently pushed him away Twilight giggled at the little dragon’s overly affectionate gestures. “I'm startin' to get a little embarrassed.”

“I know I keep thanking you guys, but I'm just so grateful.” Spike expressed as the Lion Guard came forward with a gift wrapped present of their own. “Oh, what have you got here?” He wondered as he ripped up the wrapping paper to reveal something that had him drooling.

“Oh my…a big heart entirely made out of fire rubies…” Spike jaw dropped at the big red heart of gems before popping one into his mouth and fell onto his back as if he had just experienced the most wonderful thing in his life.

“The very special kind you like.” Beshte told him with a nod.

“Yep.” Kion replied as the others giggle at seeing him like this over gems. “We worked together to make this especially for you with some of the leftover gems from when we came across those diamond dogs.”

“Key word, something that Rarity was never in trouble from the start.” Fuli added as Rarity simply and proudly shrugged.

“Thank you so much!” He thanked as he hugged the cheetah as he wrapped his claws around her front legs.

“You’re very welcome.” Kion returned as Fuli gently got the birthday boy to release his grip while still sporting a polite and friendly smile while understanding Applejack’s earlier embarrassment.

“As long as you love it, that’s all that matters.” She added as Spike’s excitement was never ending.

“I just wish this party could last forever.” Spike expressed as Pinkie who was hopping on a big blue balloon while blowing into a party kazoo ended up popped it upon hearing that before sitting down briefly.

“Duh!” She said as she rushed over to Spike while pushing Applejack, Kion, Fuli, and Twilight out of the way. “The party can't last forever 'cause you have to go to Sugarcube Corner, 'cause the Cakes said they have a special surprise for you, 'cause it's your birthday!” Pinkie added with excited movements.

“No way!” Spike exclaimed as he immediately rushed out of the library to Sugarcube Corner.

“I said the party couldn't last forever, but it doesn't need to end right now!” Pinkie called out to him which fell on deaf ears as he had already closed the door behind him.

“Oh well.” Bunga nonchalantly said as he got dancing while balancing treats off his claws. “More for me!“

As Bunga cracked down on the goods the others shake their heads as Kion turned to the egret.

“Ono. Keep watch on him and make sure he doesn’t run into trouble? We’ll catch with him shortly.”

“Affirmative.” He saluted before flying off.

Ono flew ahead as he managed to catch him heading into Sugarcube Corner where he wastes no time in seeking out the Cake’s surprise.

“Hi, Mr. and Mrs. Cake!” He greeted them.

“There's the dragon of the hour! Happy birthday, Spike!” Mr. Cake returned.

“Thanks!”

“When we found out it was your birthday, we couldn't resist trying out a new recipe: sapphire!” She presented him a cupcake with blue icing with sapphire gems on it.

“Wow!” Spike already loved the gift as he helped himself to do just as soon as he walked outside and left the shop.

“Thank you so much!” He called out to the Cakes as he waved after them before walking off. “Man, first I get a bunch of great presents from my best friends, and now an amazing sapphire cupcake! Hohoh, what a day!”

Suddenly he ended up bumping into someone by accident while he was busy talking to himself and nearly dropped his birthday gift to which he was able to quickly catch with his tongue before turning to see he had bumped into Cheerlie by accident.

“Whoa! Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, Cheerilee!” He quickly apologized as he moved to help her repack her bag of groceries.

“That's okay.” She shook it off. “What's got you so excited?“

At first Spike hesitated to answer why but then shrugged as he then honestly answered her question after eating his cupcake.

“Pinkie Pie told me I should come see the Cakes, so they could give me a cake 'cause it's my birthday today.”

“Well, happy birthday, Spike!” She happily returned. “I wish I had something to give you! Uh…oh!” She then thought with a hoof on her cheek before remembering something as she pulled out a white hat with a red stripe and matching feather on it and placed it on his head “Here you go!”

“Wow, really?” Spike asked as he touched the hat she gave him.

“Sure! Everypony should get fun gifts on their birthday!” Spike leaped up and gave her a big hug to thank her for this very kind gesture. “Have a great birthday, Spike.” She said before heading off.

“I wish every day was my birthday...” Spike said to himself as he tugged the side of his hat before walking and thinking off something to himself while Ono watches from above while letting him have his fun of what anybody would want to wish for with a smile.

“Pinkie Pie mentions my birthday to the Cakes, and I get a cupcake. I mention it to Cheerilee, and I get this great hat.” He thought to himself as he got an idea as he spotted a pony playing with a toy ball by bouncing it repeatedly off and on his back.

“Hmmm, I wonder...” He said before acting on his impulse. “Hey there, Lickety Split! That's a pretty cool ball you got there! Did you know it's my birthday?“

“Uh-oh.” Ono muttered to himself as he forces him to give him the ball as his gift before flying back over to find Twilight and Kion seeing this is something they need to know.

“This is unbelievable!” He chuckled deviously before coming across a pony carrying flowers taking a drink from the nearby fountain. “Hey, Junebug! It's my birthday!”

“Happy birthday, Spike.” She happily returned.

“Aren't you gonna give me something? You know, like a birthday present?” He urged her to do so.

“Um, I... I don't have anything.” She admittedly responded as Spike eyed the flowers she is carrying.

“Well, how about those flowers? I'll take those–“ He began to push him into doing so until…

“Spike!” Twilight chastised him as she magically grabbed him by the ear as she and Kion place a hoof and paw on him to hold him back. “Uh, sorry, Junebug, I think Spike might've gotten a little carried away.” She apologized while casting a glance at the dragon for attempting to be greedy while still not letting go of her grip on him.

“Uh, no problem...” She shrugged it off before turning to leave even while frightened by his slightly greedy display of behavior. “H-Happy birthday, Spike!”

“What are you doing? You're out here demanding gifts now?” Twilight asked him with a scolding look.

“It’s one thing being given a gift willingly such as with us, the Cakes, and Cheerlie. But forcing other’s to give you gifts is practically taking from others against their will.” Kion added while frowning at what he had just did but makes sure he understands the fine line as Spike looks at his tail at the ball that he technically took while dropping it and shaking his head shock before taking off the hat.

“Wow, you're right, Twilight. Kion. I don't know what got into me. Thanks for snapping me out of it. I'd better go give Cheerilee her hat back.”

“No problem.” Twilight quickly forgave him. “See you at home later?”

“Sounds good! Bye!” He waved her off as she went back to the library before deviously saying to himself. “Who else has a present for 'Spikey-wikey'?” While hissing.

“Spike…” Kion sternly eyed him. “Let’s go!”

“Oh, right!” He nervously grinned as the two head on together to return his ill-gotten gains while Ono examines Spike curiously feeling something has clicked inside of him that is having him act more on impulse with less self-control.

In addition, Scar secretly observing this from the nearby bushes, smiles as he sees this as an opportunity to capitalize on….

…to which he does when he secretly casts a spell on the little dragon with his own green colored magic with a single digit from his right claw later that night as he points it directly at the sleeping dragon as then sudden starting acting on impulse while finding he is doing something beyond his control.

The next morning, Twilight had woken up at the crack of dawn as she is greeted to the bright rays of sunshine on her bed.

“Wow, what a rough night's sleep.” Twilight said as she stretched her back.

“It sure was.” Kion replied as he too stretched his back. “Thanks again for letting me and Ono sleep over for the night.”

“No problem.” She happily returned as she turned to where Spike is sleeping. “I had the weirdest drea–“

The two suddenly saw that Spike had managed to obtain a collection of goods and is now sleeping with it.

“I can't believe you!” She scolded as she levitated everything aside and pulled away his blanket. “Where'd you get all this–“ She began to demand for an answer for all of this until she suddenly gasped upon seeing something startling…

Spike apparently has grown quite a bit and is now taller and leaner while sporting a hissing tongue from the other day to which frightened Twilight deeply upon seeing this sudden transformation.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“Hapana!”

Kion and Ono exclaimed.

“What happened?” Spike asked as he woke up to which Twilight is left speechless shock before getting a good look at his transformed body. “What's happening to me, Twilight?!”

“I don't know!” Twilight replied as she quickly went to her books for answers along with Ono as Spike struggled to take off his new hat. “Think back to last night. Did something happen? Spike?” She called out to him as he got momentarily distracted by everything around him along with his new body. “What did you do after I saw you?”

“I went to talk... to...” Spike began before getting distracted by the nearby globe.

“Spike!” Twilight exclaimed as she levitated the globe away from him expecting an answer.

“Huh?”

“You went to talk to who?” Kion asked.

“Oh, um... I don't remember.” He answered leaving the others annoyed that it doesn’t help things at all. “Hey, can I have that globe? You're not using it, right?”

“Huh?” She replied confused as he drags the globe to his pile of stash before turning to a nearby book that caught his eye.

“What about this book?”

“Spike, I'm worried about you. You're usually not so... grabby!” Twilight expressed as she levitated the book out of his claws before Spike took it back to which Kion tackled him to retrieve it for her.

“My arms aren't usually this long either.” Spike commented as his voice suddenly changed to which he quickly covered his mouth. “What's happening to me?”

The three inspected him as Twilight scratched her chin before trying to shrink him back to normal size with her magic accompanied with a hot blinding white shine of light. But to her surprise nothing happened as sending her violet red aura of magic did nothing to affect the dragon’s abnormal size.

“What?!” She exclaimed. “My spell didn’t work? But how?”

“I don’t know!” Ono exclaimed unable to recall a single spell or anyone nearby that could have been able to cast such an advanced spell. “Should I go over and contact the Princess?”

“That won’t be necessary.” Twilight replied as she worked her horn to write up a letter before using her magic to send it to Canterlot to make sure the princess gets it personally.

After a minute of patient waiting, the princess immediately sent back a reply to which Twilight quickly read. Once she took everything she had just read into account she quickly entrapped him in a magic bubble and aligned it perfectly in the center of the room.

Spike struggled and yelled for her to let him out but it was the magic barrier was sound proof and it takes close ears to make a word.

“What are you doing?” Kion asked.

“Magic bubble to keep him restrained here till we can rein in his growing greed.” Twilight explained as the magic around her aura continued to glow as she keeps him restrained.

“Come again?” Ono asked for clarification.

“According to Princess Celestia, as a result of the number of gifts he received yesterday, greed which is what fuel most dragon’s hearts was triggered. So with every passing minute he continues receiving gifts the more he desires to take and the bigger he gets.” Twilight explained.

“You mean the more things a dragon collects, the bigger and greedier he gets?” Kion asked as the struggling dragon further demanded to be freed.

“Let Spike out! Let Spike out! Spike want!”

“Oh give it up no one can hear you.” Ono returned back at the defiant dragon.

“What?”

“I said no one can hear you?” He repeated.

“What?”

“He said no one can hear you!” Kion stated as Spike crossed his arms in defeat until he spotted Scootaloo’s new scooter with her fellow Crusaders friends hanging onto her for the ride.

Spike suddenly grew in size before straining Twilight’s magic as she got knocked back before taking off and hostilely confronting the girls as he attempted to confiscate the girl’s scooter.

“Get away from her, you brute!” Apple Bloom shouted in her defense.

“Spike want!” He shouted as he attempted to pry it out of her hooves.

“You're not getting my scooter!” Scootaloo asserted while refusing to let go of her grip as the other Crusaders hold onto her.

“Spike want!” He repeated still not backing down either.

Seeing that Spike isn’t backing off, Kion prepared to charge at him until Twilight stopped him with a raised hoof.

“I got an idea.” She said with a confident smile as she gestured to the broom to which she picked up with her magic. “Hey, Spike! Check out this amazing broom!”

It worked as Spike then focused his full attention on it and let go of the girl’s scooter but before he could advance on her Kion quickly charged him head-first into his gut to which winded the dragon from the blow as Kion backed up ready for a fight if he did not back off.

“Spike want!” He repeated as he grew in size while shocking the prince as he just walks over him to get towards the broom.

“He got bigger!” Ono stated with wide-eyed shock.

“No kidding.” He replied as he shook off his shock before following after him as Twilight runs ahead and lures him back to the library.

“C'mon, big boy! Look at this incredible broom!” She tempted in a sing-song tone.

“Spike want!” He repeated as he had to work himself to fit inside the library by squeezing through the front entrance before chasing it into another room of the library to which Twilight immediately shut the door after him and pressed her weight on it to barricade with Kion following suit as Twilight worked her magic by creating a force field inside the room.

“Fight all you want, I'm not letting you out!” She asserted as he seemingly had calmed down after that before they released their grip on the doorto see if it had worked only to see that Spike had just gathered together all of the books from the room into one big pile.

“Oh, for Celestia’s sake, Spike, we just re-shelved this room!” Ono exclaimed in frustration as Twilight confiscated the books before shutting the door after them before sitting down and sighing in frustration with how out of hand his greediness is getting.

“Wait a minute…” Ono then thought. “…If Spike’s bigger than surely he should be able to…”

Suddenly a crashing sound is heard from the other room to which everyone all quickly burst inside to see that Spike burst through the wall leaving a silhouette imprint behind.

“…just burst right through the wall. Hapana.”

“How?” Twilight questioned of how he managed to escape her magical grasp as she sees Spike is no longer inside and didn’t feel weakened upon his attempts to break the barrier. “There was no way he should have been able to escape that!”

“Ono, fly ahead and get the rest of the Guard while Twilight and I head on over and get Applejack and Beshte to lasso him down.” Kion ordered of him to which he quickly replied by flying ahead.

“Affirmative!”

As the three all head out, Scar who had secretly provided Spike the opening with his magic to escape Twilight’s grasp then uses the opportunity to sneak into the library for some personal research inside.

By then, Spike had already cleaned out Sweet Apple Acres.

“Poa!” Beshte commented upon seeing all of the trees ripped completely out of their apples along with the leaves.

“Now who in Ponyville would steal my apples? For that matter, who would steal my leaves?” Applejack wondered as Twilight and Kion quickly rush up to them.

“Applejack, Beshte, help! Spike's running wild and I need you to lasso him!” Twilight urgently said to them to which Applejack laughed it off.

“It’s not funny!” Kion stressed the seriousness of the situation as she placed a hoof on the unicorn’s shoulder.

“Oh, that's a good one, Twilight. Sweet little Spike, running wild. Ha, what a laugh.”

“Are you sure…” Beshte began before seeing Spike actually running by with the apples and leaves in tow. “…Okay.”

“Twilight, get my rope.” Applejack quietly yet seriously said to her as a couple leaves stuck onto her face like a mustache.

Once she did so, the two ponies then charged at Spike just as he was gathering apples and leaves while Kion tries to keep him at bay…only for him to charge off at the last second leading to the two to get tied up together.

The dragon then roared in their faces before heading off with the apples in tow so he can consume them on the way.

“Don’t worry.” Kion assured the two entangled ponies as he retracted his claws so he can cut them free.

Just as soon as he did so they heard a scream.

“What was that?” Applejack asked as Rainbow and Fuli arrived on the scene.

“Sounded like Fluttershy to me!” The blue peagsus responded as Fuli sped off ahead.

“Then let’s get over there.” She voiced as they all follow her to the cottage where they look and make sure she’s okay.

“Fluttershy? Fluttershy?!”

“Ono?”

The two leaders called out for them.

“We‘re up here!” Fluttershy called out as they all look up and see Ono flying beside the frightened peagsus on the very top tree branch with her squirrel friends.

“But we’re okay.” Ono called down to them.

“What happened?” Kion asked.

“I was helping my squirrel friends with a dance step when Ono showed up, and all of a sudden, a giant, r-rampaging d-d-d-dragon stormed through!” Fluttershy explained.

“That was Spike!” Twilight clarified.

“Spike? But why would Spike steal my chicken coop?” She wondered while pointing to the now open and empty area where her chicken coop was placed. “He just pulled it out of the ground and filled it with a bunch of apples and stuff!”

Before anyone could answer they hear another scream. Two actually and they know those voices.

“That sounded like Pinkie Pie and Bunga!” Rainbow recognized.

“C'mon, girls!” Twilight led everyone to Sugarcube Corner where Pinkie and Bunga have their backs against the wall as they assault him with cakes and pies.

“Back!”

“Get back!”

Spike growled as whatever treats he catches he just places in the chicken coop he stole.

“Pinkie Pie! Bunga! Stop giving him cake!” Twilight exclaimed seeing this is only fueling the dragon’s greed rather than doing any harm.

“We’re not giving him cake, We're assaulting him with cake!” Pinkie fiercely responded before continuing their futile assault as he ended up snatching their ammo from the bookshelf Pinkie and Bunga were standing on as they both ended up on the ground as a result of the bookshelf toppling over.

“I can see you are both doing very well there.” Kyoga sarcastically commented. “Well done.”

“How dare you take the cake!” Bunga shouted as Spike then suddenly grew larger to the point he busted a hole through the roof before walking off with his stolen goods.

“Hapana…” Ono gawked as he fainted in shock while landing on Beshte’s back.

“…He’s bigger than most of the houses here and that’s really, really, big.” Beshte commented.

“He's completely out of control! Who knows where he'll go next!” Twilight exclaimed as his roaring rampage is becoming more and more unstoppable with every passing second before running off ahead with the others following after her with Applejack along with a reluctant Fuli dragging a still shocked and devastated Pinkie Pie and Bunga along with them.

Meanwhile at Carousal Boutique, Rarity is currently trying on her newest cape design.

“Hm, perhaps some more ruffle.” Rarity then thought she is rolled off suggestions while looking at herself in the mirror just as Spike’s giant eye was watching her from the nearby window.

Once she turned around and saw him she immediately screamed in terror as he grabbed and abducted the unicorn.

Surely enough, once word of Spike’s rampage got out, a siren alarm was sprung to which Spike quickly ate the megaphone echoing the alarm all over town while every pony is running around in a panic.

As he roars he pulls the water tower off and nearly drowns every pony nearby before using the water tower to place the chicken coop filled with goods into it so he can have a bigger container after seeing it ran out of room while briefly contemplating whether to use an apple cart as an extra container.

“Put me down, you brute!” Rarity demanded as Spike roared in her face in response. “How rude.” She commented as her mane was left completely straighten out and back again as a result.

“Don't worry Rarity, we'll save you!” Fluttershy assured as she Rainbow and Ono fly by.

“Put her down, right now!” Rainbow demanded.

“I-If you wouldn't mind, that is...”

“Please.”

The other two flyers asked in a terrified state.

“I mean it, dragon boy!” Rainbow further demanded.

“Come on.” Ono urged him more firmly while in between both ponies stances.

“We'll be ever so grateful if you'd be so kind as to possibly consider...”

“Drop her, scaly!”

“You know it doesn’t have to come down to this.”

Spike just sports a teeth gritting grin as he waved his tail around.

“Hey! I'm– not some– sort of common– fly swatter!” Rarity protested as her cape ended up snagging the other three to which plummeted them to the ground and into the water.

“Girls! My cape!” The distressed unicorn cried out with some flair of drama in her tone on the latter.

As Spike roared once again a group of fast flyers arrived on the scene.

“Look! The Wonderbolts!” Rainbow called out as they perform a series of aerial movements to attempt to take him down.

Spike growled before getting an idea to climb up the nearby mountain while still carrying the screaming unicorn wrapped around his tail.

The Wonderbolts followed after him as they close flight shaved the back of his scales to which angered him as he quickly placed his goods in the nearby cave from above before using it to trap the charging trio in it while shoving it into the mountainside while unleashing another monstrous roar.

“Oh, be quiet. You've got nothing to be proud of.” Rarity then said to the giant with a newly grown backbone. “You steal everypony's things, terrorize the town, and use me as a weapon against my own friends!” She further scolded as Spike mimicking her with an open motion claw in a “Blah, Blah, Blah.” manner. “Which, as horrible as it is, I can almost understand because you're a dragon and all. But this!” She then ripped off her cape to show the damage he did right in his face. “This is a crime against fashion!”

Spike then pulled the now defiant unicorn up as he then examines the fire ruby he gave her the other day to which had his face turned into one with a surprised rather than a mean greedy looking smile.

“Oh no. You are not getting this gemstone!” She then stated as she quickly placed her hooves in front of it. “This was given to me by my dear friend Spikey-wikey, the kindest, sweetest, most generous dragon ever. And it is too precious to me to give to a greedy old beast like you!”

As Spike looked on at the gem something in him clicked as he suddenly thought of the moment he gave it to her.

“Here, Rarity, you take it. It would mean even more to see you happy than to eat it myself.” He said to her as he placed it in her hooves,

“I... I don't know what to say. This is just so generous.” Rarity returned rather touched while kissing him on the cheek to thank him for his generosity.

Once it played through his mind, he shook his head as something was changing inside of him upon recalling that memory.

“Oh, what now? I suppose you'll be eating me or something?“ Rarity then asked expecting more of his nasty side until he suddenly transformed back into his young and small size. “Spike?! You're the rampaging dragon?!” She then realized upon seeing this as they both plummet to the ground as the rest of the Guard watches from above.

“Somepony do something!” Pinkie shouted as Rainbow and Ono were both quick to answer the call without orders while the former drags Fluttershy along with them.

“On it!”

“We’re coming!”

They shouted as Ono flies ahead while Rainbow has Fluttershy use Rarity’s torn cape as a safety net to catch them.

While Rainbow flies as she fast as she can she sees Fluttershy being easy to keep pace with her to which she returned an annoyed frown at the innocently smiling peagsus before dragging her along.

“Rarity? I need to tell you something! Just in case we don't make it!” Spike then said as the three flyers rush over to them as fast as they can. “I've always sort of had a crush–“

Spike was then suddenly yet gently interrupted mid-sentence as she tears up to make it clear non-verbally that she knows. She has always known from day one to which he smiled upon seeing it as they both descend to the ground. But fortunately for them Ono was able to catch Spike onto his back as he slightly strained upon holding his weight up while Rainbow and Fluttershy were both able to catch Rarity with the cape before they all safely placed them back onto the ground and on the bridge where their friends were.

“We did it! I can't believe we did it!” Fluttershy exclaimed in delight.

“Way to go, Ono!” Beshte complimented.

“Well done, girls.” Kyoga added with a sincere smile as the water tower trapping the Wonderbolts fell to the ground to which they all flew ahead back to Cloudsdale proudly.

Kyoga’s smile briefly faded as she noticed this and focused her magic in sending them a few non-fatal lightning bolts at them to send a little message in humility in their minds to remind them of who really saved the day.

“All in a day's work.” Rainbow commented feeling satisfied with what they had just accomplished together as they all see that Spike is looking on in horror of what his monstrous side had just did throughout the day while looking on at his own now normal sized claws.

“Spike, I just have to tell you how absolutely proud I am of you.” Rarity then comforted him as she approached him.

“Proud of me?” He returned rather surprised.

“Yes.” She returned. “It was you who stopped... w-well, you, from destroying Ponyville. You are my hero, Spikey-wikey!” She added with a kiss on the cheek to which Spike really loved in response to the affectionate gesture while everyone watches on pleased that everything is back to normal.

Now they just need to return everything Spike had stole as well as repair the damages done to which they all did no problem as it took them the rest of the day to tackle.

Once that was done, Rarity had brought forward everyone their very own capes. Fluttershy and Beshte’s are baby-blue, Pinkie and Ono’s are sky blue, Fuli and Applejack’s are both brown fitting for the cheetah’s spots, Twilight and Bunga’s are dark blue, and Kion and Kyoga’s are both purple. All very fitting for their personalities as always to which Rarity never disappoints in that regard.

During this Spike put together his recently learned friendship report for the princess, hand-written himself.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned a great lesson about friendship. Well, you might think that it would feel good to get lots and lots of stuff, but it doesn't feel nearly as good as giving something special to somepony you really care about. But I learned that it truly is better to give than to receive, and that kindness and generosity are what lead to true friendship. And that's more valuable than anything in the world. Well... almost anything.”

As Spike gazes upon the kiss mark on his cheek from the pony of his dreams, Scar himself secretly watched on with a sinister smile from the outskirts of town.

“Well said, my little dragon friend. Well done.” Scar commented with a smile that agrees with his words albeit more on the last part of his letter to the princess. “Almost anything…indeed.” He added as he slowly backs inside the covered confines of the nearby trees and bushes before teleporting away in a flash to a more isolated forest nearby a deserted hive in the distance to where he pulls out confidential files of every member of the Lion and Pony Guard to which he made personal copies for himself while everyone’s backs were turned while feeling satisfied with what vital information he succeeded in obtaining. “Thank you, Spike. You’ve been most helpful assisting me here. So many files. So many secrets.” He said as he flipped through the confidential files of every important figure in both the Pride Lands and Equestria before setting his eyes on Twilight Sparkle’s file. “Ah, Twilight Sparkle. So nice to get to you know and your friends.” He added as he calmly smiled up reading the file’s contents. He then turned towards the hive’s direction looking for followers to support his cause in preparation for his next biggest plot for taking over Equestria along with the Pride Lands. “Because I have plans for you. Big plans indeed.” He added with a sinister chuckle to himself.

Author's Note

For this one it's pretty much true to form with the exception of Twilight asking Princess Celestia via letter rather than a pointless trip to the town's doctor and vet along with doing something to attempt to stop Spike's rampage when his overgrowing and uncontrollable greed was turning him into his giant and monstrous form.

Luckily for everyone, Spike's act of generosity and kindness from the beginning ended up snapping Spike out of it with a very valauble lesson learned from the experience...

...which all also played into Scar's paws as he managed to obtain vital information on the crew to which he will find very useful going forward.

Next up is "Family Appreciation Day." where the matriarch Granny Smith of the Apple Family gets an episode to shine in this upcoming episode.

Episode 16: Family Apperication Day

Episode 16:

Family Appreciation Day

One night at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack, Big Macintosh, and Apple Bloom were all sleeping when they suddenly heard loud clanging from metal pots from outside of the barn. They all looked outside to see it is Granny Smith making the noise as if it to let her grandchildren know of something important.

“The timberwolves are a-howlin'! The timberwolves are a-howlin'!”

“Eeyup.” Big Macintosh stoically commented.

“The zap apples are comin'! The zap apples are comin'!” Granny Smith also yelled out.

“Yay, the zap apples are comin'!” Everyone inside all cheered.

“That's what I said.” Granny Smith returned as she continued clapping pans.

Once it was morning the Apple Family wasted no time in getting ready for the big apple harvest as they both got Kion and Beshte’s help with the harvest too.

“Hey, silly goose! Quit your gawkin' and move your caboose!” Granny Smith shouted out to her grandson.

“Eeyup.“ He replied as he, Kion, Applejack, and Beshte all got to work in placing out baskets under the trees.

“You got it!

“We’re ready when you are!”

Beshte and Kion returned back to the matriarch of the Apple Family.

“Ready, Granny!” Apple Bloom said to her grandmother as she saw Kion give the signal who is dazing off on her rocking chair.

“Ready for what?” The elderly pony asked.

“For makin' zap apple jam!” Her granddaughter answered.

“Darn tootin'! It's time for some good old-fashioned zap apple jammin'!” She agreed.

“Yes, ma'am. I can't wait, ma'am!” Apple Bloom eagerly returned with a salute.

“Wait for what?” Granny Smith asked with brief confusion after a small pause.

“To make zap apple jam with you!” Apple Bloom answered again.

“O'course.” She replied as she got up from her chair and moved to the kitchen. “Now I been doin' this ever since I was a little pony, so be warned, pickle pear. There's a whole mess o' steps in this process and you gots to get each one of them just right, or no zap apple jam. Take this.” She then presented her granddaughter a wooden straw broom.

“Uh, is this one of your gazillion secret herbal ingredients for the zap apple jam?” Apple Bloom asked as she handed her the broom.

“That there's a broom.” She corrected. “Now get sweepin', pipsqueak! Now while you sweep, I'll get to, uh... something there... umm...” She then trailed off from her thoughts. “…oh, ponyfeathers. Bet I'd forget my mane if it wasn't attached to my head.”

Apple Bloom did as she was told just as the others outside finish placing the buckets under all of the trees just a gust of wind blows by to which Big Macintosh takes a sniff at it as dark clouds form around the skies with electric crackling appearing on the tree tops with new leaves growing on them.

“Poa!” Beshte remarked.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion also remarked just as bewildered since this is their first Zap Apple Harvest.

“There's the zap apple leaves, right on schedule!” Applejack smiled as the skies cleared up.

“Who would have known that was normal for growing apples here in Ponyville but Apple ponies?” Kion thought to himself before making his way over to where Granny Smith is to tell her that himself who is currently along with Apple Bloom wearing bunny suits.

“A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L-M-N-O-P...” Granny Smith sang the alphabet as she bounced around the watering cans placed in a circular formation with Apple Bloom following after her as Diamonad Tiara along with her father a sharp dressed business looking pony with a tan brown fur coat, slicked back style black mane while wearing red tie with the dollar sign on it with a blue and white shirt collar on it.

Diamond Tiara wasted no time in making fun of them as Kion glares at her to knock it off with an “I’m warning you.” face for her to remember what he and his friends told her the last time they picked on Apple Bloom and her friends.

“Good to see you again, Diamond Tiara.” Kion greeted with a serious smile as to be friendly for the sake of the grownups but her attitude did go unnoticed by him.

“Well, howdy-doo there, Filthy Rich!” Granny Smith greeted the stallion.

“Hello, Mrs. Smith.” He returned just as kindly. “Did I hear right that there's a zap apple harvest coming in a few days?”

“Four days, to be exact.” She replied as she nodded and bent her back legs up and down.

“Excellent news, and as usual, I get your first hundred jars?” Filthy Rich then requested as Diamond continued smirking at Apple Bloom while Kion silently glares at her

“'Course, Filthy.” She gladly granted his request.

“Uh, I prefer Rich.” He kindly insisted.

“Oh, and how is your pappy doin'?” Granny then asked as she hopped ahead with Filthy Rich following her leaving the young girls and boy to talk.

“Oh, you poor, poor thing, having to make all that zap apple jam with Granny Smith.” Diamond then said with fake pity is she stuck out of her tongue to emphasize her disgust.

“Actually, I been looking forward to making zap apple jam for years!” Apple Bloom still happily expressed.

“I'm not talking about the jam. I'm talking about Granny Smith!” Diamond corrected her as she pointed to said pony’s head stuck in a giant pot. “You must be sooo embarrassed.”

“Soup's on!” She exclaimed as the pot still remained over her face and on her head obscuring her view as Filthy Rich smiles as he moves to offer a helping hoof.

“Diamond Tiara…?” Kion sternly voiced his disapproval to warn her against going there.

“Uh, what do ya mean?” Apple Bloom curiously felt the need to ask.

“You know, with all her silly ways, how she forgets things, and makes you wear these ridiculous costumes?” She continued despite Kion’s warnings as she briefly placed a hoof on her costume.

“Don’t you have anything better to do other than putting other ponies down out of spite?” Kion asked her to get her to back off.

“No I don’t.” She replied as she stopped right there at least not without adding… “Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me.” in a whisper to Apple Bloom.

““Silly ways"?” Apple Bloom then thought to herself as Kion place a paw on her shoulder just as Filthy Rich’s attempt to gong the pot resulted the elderly pony walking backwards from the vibration the gong sent.

“Uh, thank you kindly, Filthy!”

“Don’t worry, Granny Smith! I got you!” Kion assured as he moved over to help remove the pot from her head.

After helping free Granny Smith, the three then went into town to gather supplies in preparation as the ladies both wore sunhats and saddle bags over their backs while Kion walks alongside them ready to help them out when needed.

“Shake a leg there, slowpoke! We got a gaggle's worth of goods to gather before the harvest. Come on!” She encouraged her granddaughter as she sang to a tune while hopping ahead leaving Apple Bloom lowering her head in embarrassment. “Gonna make zap apple jam, hoop-dee-hoo! Gatherin' my goodies now, hoop-dee-hee! Singin' and dancin', diddley-hoo, flippity-floo, my darlin!” She then stopped as she observed one of the metal pots at a stand nearby. “They don't make 'em like they used to.”

She then bit into it with her teeth as Apple Bloom and Kion look on disturbed.

“Hey! You bite it, you buy it!” The stand owner told her just as her dentures came out as a result while walking ahead leaving Apple Bloom further embarrassed as Kion stepped forward.

“I am so sorry about that?” He apologized on her behalf before carefully removing the elder pony’s teeth from the pot with his paws as Apple Bloom walked ahead.

The two then caught up with her just as Kion accidentally flung Granny Smith’s teeth into her mouth up seeing that she has a beard of bees hanging on her neck along with more bees buzzing around her.

“Whoo! Why, hello, Bea, Beatrice, Beecher! Ooh, you've all been busy little bees, haven't you?“ She nonchalantly said to them as she poured a jar of honey from one of the hives and honeycombs.

“Wow.” Kion voiced amazement seeing this while still shocked by the sight of it.

“Granny, isn't there a less... silly way to get the honey?” Apple Bloom nervously recommended before gasping upon seeing Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon again before quickly ducking out of sight from a nearby bee hive.

“Oh, isn't this just precious?” Granny Smith cherished this moment as she pulled up the filly.

“Please stop!” She pleaded before more ponies look in their direction.

“And it is perfect for makin' our zap apple jam!” She loudly continued while placing her hooves on her cheeks to which got the girls attention.

“Shh! Stop it, Granny!” She pleaded as the two behind her were about to snicker at her direction until they saw Kion again quick to shoot them dirty looks.

“Keep moving.” He calmly whispered to them as they quicky hightailed it away from the market.

“Are we done shopping, Granny? 'Cause I'd like to get back to the farm, fast.” Apple Bloom pleaded feeling the damage is already been done.

“All done, smellybelly.” She complied since they got everything they need before singing to another tune. “I got my honey, gooey-goo! Got my honey, gooey-ooh! Got my honey, iddley-hoo!”

As Granny Smith sang, Apple Bloom lowered her sun hat down in shame.

“You know to be honest…” Kion began with words of wisdom. “…your grandmother isn’t that bad.”

“I know but did you see how she acted today? It was really silly and embarrassing.” She protested otherwise.

“I know it kinda was but like with Pinkie Pie it’s just Granny Smith being Granny Smith. It’s a part of who she is.” Kion further advised. “Granny Smith is the best grandmother you could ask for, don’t let anyone not even Diamond Tiara or Silver Spoon tell you otherwise.”

“I’ll try…” Apple Bloom voiced as her worries still remain heading into school the next day where Filthy Rich is there in front of the class for Family Appreciation Day to give his presentation.

“And, by capturing the whole sale market, purchasing in bulk and slashing all prices, we undermine every other gift market in town, and that's how Rich's Barnyard Bargains became the cornerstone of retail in Ponyville.” He explained his presentation while presenting a chart of rising numbers to show of how well his business to doing to the class with most of the class having fallen asleep with the exception of Twist who had her hoofs on her cheeks half-interested, an uninterested Apple Bloom looking aside, and of course his little girl Diamond Tiara with smiling full attention who was the only one who clapped aside from the Pride Lander kids out of politeness.

“Well, thank you, Mr. Filthy…” Cheerlie began before quickly correcting herself upon seeing him frown at being referred to by his first name. “…I mean, Mr. Rich. What a wonderful day of sharing! And thank you for being a part of Family Appreciation Day!”

Filthy Rich then walked out of the classroom as Rafiki opens the door for him as Cheerlie made her way back to her desk.

“Now, uh, let's see who will be bringing in a family member for next Monday's Family Appreciation Day.” She then looked at her list for other students and candidates images on the paper with checkmarks next to them before eyeing the blank mark next to Apple Bloom’s. “Um... oh! Apple Bloom!”

“But Miss Cheerilee.” She rose a disagreeing hoof as both bullies smirk at her. “Monday is zap apple harvest day, and Applejack and Big Macintosh will be too busy to come and speak.”

“Well, is there anypony else in your family that could–“ Cheerlie asked as Diamond Tiara offered an idea when Apple Bloom tried to shake her head “No.” in response.

“Miss Cheerilee. Apple Bloom's Granny Smith isn't working harvest. She could come.”

“Oh! But, uh, no, that wouldn't–“ Apple Bloom stammered as she tried to disagree with that suggestion but it seems her mind has already been made.

“That's a splendid idea, Diamond Tiara! Apple Bloom, you shall bring in Granny Smith on Monday.”

“But what if…” Kambuni tried to speak up for her until the afternoon bell rang.

“Have a great weekend, everypony!” Cheerlie happily dismissed everyone with school over for the day as she left the room with Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara quickly leaving with the latter feeling she did her job just as she suddenly gets a dose of watery karma from behind in retaliation for her.

“Sorry, Apple Bloom…” Her ostrich friend apologized.

“Granny Smith? Come Monday, I'll be the laughin' stock of Ponyville!” Apple Bloom lamented as she planted her face onto her desk in despair as Rafiki took notice of this and wondered of what he could do to help her feel more comfortable with all of this.

Back at the Apple Farm, both Applejack and Big Macintosh are both watering the trees with both Kion and Beshte as Apple Bloom approaches her elder siblings to ask them to come over to school on Monday with pleading eyes.

“I'm sorry, Apple Bloom.” Applejack apologized. “I already told you that we just can't take a break from harvest to come to your school. You know what'll happen.”

“I know...” Apple Bloom acknowledged. “…after the fifth day, the zap apples disappear...”

A gust of wind then blew by as the dare clouds formed around the farm again with black crows flying by and into the sky in a heart formation as Granny Smith regroups with her grandchildren along with the Lion Guard’s Fiercest and Strongest.

“Look! The third sign! Right on time! Hot diggity!” Granny Smith commented.

“Does this mean everything is looking in the right direction.” Beshte asked.

“It sure is.” She responded excitedly as the trees suddenly grew blue flowers on them just as the clouds clear up to reveal the sunny bright blue sky to which the whole Apple Family awed at the sight seeing that everything is looking great so far.

“Wow!” Everyone all said together.

“Alright, you lazy daisies, move your caboose!” Granny Smith then said to everyone as they all get back to work.

“I'm sorry, Apple Bloom,” Applejack again apologized. “…but don't you fret. Granny Smith's got no shortage of entertainin' stories to tell.”

“I know. That's what I'm worried about.” Apple Bloom expressed with lowered ears as Kion and Beshte see the filly’s worried troubles about her next day of school on Monday.

“She is not looking forward to it is she, Kion?” Besthe asked.

“Nope.” Kion answered. “Even after I told her she had nothing to worry about and that she wouldn’t become a laughing stock if she comes.”

“Do you think there is some way or someone else that can help her out.” Beshte wondered as they watch Apple Bloom walk off on her own. “Prepares someone Granny Smith’s age?”

Kion then pondered for a moment before actually thinking there is someone her grandmother’s age that can help her out there.

“There is one way.” Kion smiled as he proposed as he brought his hippo friend in for a whisper who smiled at what he has in mind for that day…

Meanwhile, the next day Apple Bloom has gathered her fellow Cutie Mark Crusader and honorary Lion Guard team together to help her out with her little problem.

“I'll be embarrassed, shamed, disgraced, mortified, humiliate–“ Apple Bloom expressed as she paced around before Sweetie Belle quickly placed a hoof in her mouth to get her to stop.

“Easy, Apple Bloom.” Mtoto told her.

“Just stop before you hurt yourself.” Gumba added.

“What are you, a dictionary?” Scootaloo quizzically asked.

“No she is a pony.” Shauku corrected.

“Snap out of it.” Sweetie then told her friend. “We're here to help you!”

“After all, we are the Cutie Mark Crusaders.” Scootaloo reminded. “We'll figure out a way to postpone your presentation.”

“Postpone it. Is that a good idea?” Mtoto questioned.

“It’s brilliant.” Gumba agreed.

“But how? Ugh! All this worry is makin' me sick!” Apple Bloom wondered feeling ill just thinking about it.

“Sick?” Sweetie pondered the thought along with the others as Scootaloo and Shauku leaped up into the glowing lantern hanging as they both ding their heads on it as they both come with the same idea.

“That's it!”

“C'mon!”

The two exclaimed as they led the way while the peagsus filly drags the earth filly with her.

Back inside the house, Granny Smith has donned a camouflage military hat as she examined the many empty glass jars with varying sizes.

“Ten-hut!” She called out to them military style. “Now listen here, troops! Now, I don't want any whinin' or cryin' or crackin' under pressure! Do I make myself clear?!”

As she slammed her hoof onto the table the force of caused the last jar to crack accidentally.

“Court-martialed!” She declared as she tossed the jar into the trash can.

In the filly’s bedroom, the other Cutie Mark Crusaders and Pride Landers friends all work together in trying to make it seem like Apple Bloom is catching a fever by tucking her in bed, messing her mane up, and heating up the thermometer and placing green grape juice on her cheeks to sell the deal.

“Stay still, Apple Bloom! You have to look sick!” Scootaloo instructed her as she stuck the warmed up thermometer in her mouth.

“Aaah!” Apple Bloom screamed in pain. “Hey, this is hot!”

“What in the hayseed is going on in there, silly billy?” Grannt Smith questioned as she made her way upstairs just as the kids minus the Cutie Mark Crusaders quickly ducked under the covers while Scootaloo quickly places the green grape juice all over Apple Bloom’s face.

“Oh, Granny Smith!” Scootaloo began with a hoof on the back of her neck. “We were just about to come get you!”

“Apple Bloom's sick!” Sweetie Belle added. “Looks like she might have to stay home all week!”

Granny Smith examined the thermometer as Sweetie Belle smirked along with Shauku and Gumba from under seeing their plan might work as she placed a hoof on her forehead…

“Ooh! Perfect as a Piccadilly pear!” Granny Smith then responded with a smile not fooled by the attempt as she leaves the room.

“Dang it!” Shauku expressed annoyance.

“I can’t believe that it didn’t work.” Gumba shared the same sentiment as he lightly punched the floor in frustration.

“Now what?” Apple Bloom asked as the others were unable to offer any good ideas at the moment as the sun sets with the whole group retreating back to the clubhouse.

“It's already almost sundown! Tomorrow is Sunday, and I only have one more day to figure something out!” Apple Bloom desperately voiced of what do while facing the ticking clock.

“Hey! Look!” Sweetie Belle gestured everyone to the telescope on the top floor in their observatory room to where they all saw shooting stars.

“Cool!” Kwato and Mtoto remarked in amazement.

“That's the fourth sign!” Apple Bloom commented knowing what this means as Scootaloo along with the mongoose and baboon quickly push the three aside so they can get a good look themselves as they all see the flowers turned into silver colored apples with electric sparks sparkling all over every one of them.

“The zap apples have appeared!“ Apple Bloom commented as she and the others pushed aside quickly take back control of the telescope.

“And that gives me an idea!” Sweetie Belle stated as they made their way to the trees while sneaking through the bushes so the Apple sisters along with the two Lion Guard members don’t catch them in the act.

“We can't move Family Appreciation Day, so let's move harvest day instead!” Sweetie Belle proposed.

“Are you sure?” Kwato questioned as she looks on at the unfamiliar fruit.

“They don't look... quite ripe.” Apple Bloom agreed not sure on the idea of messing with them.

“Harvesting apples early never hurt an apple.” Scootaloo saw no problem in it.

“That’s true.” Gumba agreed as he and Shakku share a nod together.

“I don't know... zap apple trees aren't like normal apple trees. They're magic.” Apple Bloom still voiced that she doesn’t think it’s such a good idea.

“Maybe we are better off coming up with another way.” Mtoto suggested. “My mom wouldn’t like it to hear if I was playing with fire.”

“Oh come on, they’re just apples.” Gumba replied certain it wouldn’t matter.

“How different can they be?” Sweetie Belle asked as she stepped front and staright up bucked the tree which sent a charge up the tree which redirected back at her to which shocked her as she was sent flying back into another bush.

“And I stand corrected.” Gumba then said with his question answered there.

“Well if we can't buck 'em, let's just pick 'em!” Apple Bloom then proposed as the other Crusaders along with the baboon and mongoose quickly make their way up the tree so they can tree to pick them off of the tree as the girls who were biting onto each other’s tails wind up flying into the pig pen where they end up getting soiled in mud.

Upon seeing them get sent flying by this strong trees, both Shakku and Gumba quickly let go of their grip of the zap apples as they along with the rest of the friends slowly back away from the trees as they head on over to the pig pen to check up on their friends to see if they are all okay.

“Any other bright ideas?” Apple Bloom asked everyone who all had nothing for the rest of the day.

The next day, Cheerlie and Rafiki come over knocking on the doors to the barn seeking to speak with the Apple matriarch.

“Granny Smith, it's Miss Cheerilee! Apple Bloom said you wanted to speak with me?” Cheerlie called for her yet wondered when she got no response. “Hello? Granny Smi–“ She tried again as she peeked her head in the front window until she spotted her seemingly awake yet is really napping with ropes being held by the children from upstairs to move her legs around like puppet strings while placing glasses with open eye stickers on them.

“Well hello there! Howdydoo!” Apple Bloom returned while managing a close matching voice from behind her grandmother’s chair.

“Impressive.” Kwato voiced with a nod.

“It’s all in the throat.” Apple Bloom whispered before continuing with the impression as Cheerlie seems to be buying it while Rafiki looks on suspiciously.

“Hmm…” He thought as he scratched his beard. “Something is not quite right here.”

“Hi... uh... Granny Smith... is, ugh, everything okay?” She then continued.

“Of course it is! Why wouldn't it be?” Apple Bloom assured in her Granny Smith impersonation as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo accidentally moved her forelegs into knocking off the glasses off of her face to which Apple Bloom quickly placed them back on her eyes before Cheerlie could figure it out while oblivious to the snoring she is doing in her sleep.

“Oh, er, excuse me. Uh, pickles always give me the hiccups!” She quickly recomposed herself. “I need to tell you that I can't make the presentation on Monday after all!”

“Oh no, is that so?” She asked with slight disappointment.

“No doubts about it!” She confirmed. “I gotta shear the flowers and water the sheep! I mean, I have to water the flowers and shear the sheep!” She then corrected herself as Scootaloo and Mtoto rolled their eyes together at that little blooper.

“Oh, well, that's too bad. We can reschedule.” She assured it’s no problem as she turned and walked just as Rafiki knocked on the door which woke the elderly pony from her nap.

“E– whut– hai– where am I?” She murmured in confusion before seeing Rafiki wave to her. “Well, howdy, Mister Rafiki!” She greeted him. “You window shopping?”

Rafiki laughed while finding it funny before answering why he is really here.

“I just wanted to drop by and ask along with Ms. Cheerlie if you would be so kind to come over to school on Monday for Family Appreciation Day?”

“Fiddlesticks! I wouldn't miss it for all the tea in Canterlot!” Granny Smith cemented her decision. “See you Monday!”

“Excellent!” Rafiki returned cheerfully while laughing his head off while giving a thumb’s up to the confused mare.

“Oh, so close.” Gumba commented.

“Yep.” Kwato sighed. “Just when we thought were actually going to pull that off.”

Later when a now awake Granny Smith is now painting pink polka dots all over the kitchen, Apple Bloom grows increasingly worried with her impending predicament.

“I can't believe she woke up from her nap.“ Apple Bloom cried with her face buried in the carpet before briefly popping her head up to face her friends. “She never wakes up from her nap! I wish I could just run off and hide!”

“Sorry, Apple Bloom.” Kwato sympathetically said to her with as Mtoto placed his trunk on the distraught filly. “But we don’t know what else to do!”

“Maybe your Granny Smith coming over wouldn’t be such a bad thing.” Mtoto tried to make light of it as Apple Bloom simply groaned in response.

“If only every wish could come true.” Kambuni could only say as Sweetie Belle seemed to agree while thinking of one last idea they can try.

“Well, you can't run off... but maybe somepony else can!”

“You mean…” Kambuni asked figuring…

“Yes, Kambuni!” She nodded.

“Well then count me out!” She squawked. “I’ll catch you later and hope that the Guard doesn’t throw the book at you all.”

“Huh?” Sweetie returned confused before understanding. “…Oh, no, no, no, no. That was not what I was thinking…” She corrected her before whispering what she has in mind in her ear to which she nods feeling relieved that said idea isn’t a murder job.

The next morning, the dark clouds formed as lightning strikes yet again as the sunny skies emerge as a rainbow shines over the trees to which streamed through all of the apples which turned ever silver colored apple into rainbow-colored ones just as Granny Smith, Applejack, and Kion watch from just outside of the barn.

“Yee-haw!” Granny Smith cheered

“The zap apple harvest has begun!” Applejack declared as Kion quickly moved to catch Granny Smith on his back.

“And tomorrow we will be makin' up some zap apple jam!” Granny Smith added as she walks off ahead to where she is suddenly intercepted by Scootaloo and Shakku posing as mail messangers.

“Miss Granny Smith? Telegram.” Scootaloo announced as she handed her said telegram to which Shakku written himself before they quickly fled before Kion could question them even though he wasn’t fooled for a second.

“Well, bust my buttons. Uncle Apple Strudel wants me to pay him a visit.” Granny Smith expressed her sudden excitement as Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, along with the mongoose and baboon all silently snicker from the corner of the barn.

“And you can just make the 8AM train. I already packed you a bag!” Her granddaughter quickly presented her prepared bag to her.

“Well, that was considerate.” The elder earth pony thanked as she headed on towards the train station. “But don't you worry, flibbertigibbet! I'll be back in time to make that jam!”

“That train ride takes all day. I'm safe. Hah.” Apple Bloom sighed in relief thinking she is finally saved from embarrassment as Kion waves a paw at Beshte on top of the hill with the zap apple trees that their plan is in motion before running after the elderly pony.

Later that morning, school got in session as everyone took their seats.

“For today's Family Appreciation Day, we are pleased to welcome Granny Smith.” Cheerlie introduced before seeing that she didn’t come in right away. “Um... Apple Bloom? Is Granny Smith here?” She then asked the relaxed filly

“Oh, I'm sorry, Miss Cheerilee…” Apple Bloom apologized with fake but well-acted sincerity. “…but she got called out of town on account of a family emergency–“

“Well, howdy, my little ponies!” Granny Smith suddenly appeared much to her granddaughter’s shock. “Howdy, y'all! I'm as happy as a pig in a fresh mudpile to be here!”

“Whuh…” Apple Bloom stammered as she tried to wonder how this was possible as much as her friends “… what are you doing here? Did you miss the train?”

“Er, no, it came. And Uncle Apple Strudel was on it.” She answered as she showed said pony standing next to her who affectionately pats his niece’s little red mane.

“Ooooooh, noogie-noogie-noggie!” She greeted with a slight-off laugh.

“I can't wait to hear Granny Smith's presentation.” Diamond loudly and tauntingly stated before whispering to her friend. “If she can remember any of it.”

The two giggled as the elder pony begins her recollections as Uncle Strudel gives her a chair for her to sit on as she presents a map of Canterlot, Ponyville, Cloudsdale, and the Everfree Forest.

“Long ago, when I was a little pony, things were very different here in Ponyville, 'cause there was no Ponyville!” She began to recall as she thought back to the old days where she was traveling with a group of ponies when she was the kids’ age.

“That's right, my little ponies. Me and my family were pilgrim pony folk, back when I was a little filly. Oh, we ventured far and wide, collecting new seeds and sellin' the old. But my pa was the finest seed collector in all of Equestria.”

Granny Smith narrated as her past self did exactly as she described.

“Then, one day, the Smith family found themselves in the most brilliant, most grand, most magnificent of all cities. A place called... Canterlot.” She explained as they made their way to the castle with tents set up back then.

“Well, I bet your hooves to hindquarters I had never seen anything like it before nor since. And as if the beauty of that city wasn't enough, suddenly, she appeared. Princess Celestia, the most regal of all ponies.”

Young Granny Smith marveled at their surroundings as they came across the alicorn monarch in her chariot who then walked off as she turned her attention to the arriving family with modesty.

“When lo and behold, she stopped to look at my pa's seed collection. Then Princess Celestia saw that we were plumb-tuckered and hankerin' to find our forever home. And bein' a royal Princess and all, she knew exactly the place for us to lay down our stakes.”

The princess then gestured them a place to settle their roots after giving them a tour through the castle as the patriarch gratefully kissed the princess’s hoof much to his wife’s irritation.

“My pa gave the Princess a mighty thanks. We quickly found that land near the Everfree Forest, and we built our first home. Next, we planted our first orchards. But an orchard don't grow overnight, and we were getting mighty short on food.” She narrated as her young self went outside at night. “Now mind you, we were cautioned about the forest, and we knew that it was not fit to enter.”

Just as Young Granny Smith approached the entrance she heard timberwolves but was determined to find food inside of there.

“But I knew there was critters livin' there. There must be somethin' to eat. It was dark and musty, and I won't lie, it was scary. But every inch was covered in plant life, and before I knew it, wasn't I standin' in front of the most incredible apple trees!” She said as her younger self came across the zap apples as she wasted no time picking them. “I had never seen anything that bore this kind of colorful fruit! Oh I started picking apples quick as a whip!”

But just as she was doing so timberwolves appeared and surrounded her. Frightened by the size and number of them she ran for her life with the pack right behind her.

“I turned, and there before me stood the timberwolves! I've never run so fast in my life. I did the only thing I could think of.”

Once she got back home, she quickly banged pots and bans to scare them off just as her parents woke up to see what the commotion was all about before she and father got to work the next day in planting these special apple tree seeds.

“My pa and I planted those special apple seeds, and before our eyes they grew like wildfire. Why, we had full grown trees faster than you could say 'lickety split'.”

She explained as the tree’s instantly grew with everything in preparation for the zap apple harvest going on exactly what happened the past few days as the cycle of the zap apples falls through.

“Then each year, I paid close attention to the signs of the zap apples' special harvesting times—how the weather affects the Everfree Forest, how the timberwolves howl when the zap apples first start growing, and how they zapped away if you didn't pick 'em all in one day! And the fruits of our labor were the best fruit we ever tasted.”

After picking their apples they made zap apple jam and other baked goods they can use out of the special fruit while Young Granny Smith examined the taste of her most recent batch to get a better feel of how to make it taste great.

“Soon enough I was mixing up batches of zap apple jam. Just like harvestin' the zap apples had its special rules, so did makin' zap apple jam. I learned that you gotta be extra friendly with the bees, otherwise their honey won't taste rightly sweet to mix in with the zap apples.”

Granny Smith explained as her younger self did exactly that with the bees before moving on with inspecting the glass jars along painting polka dots on the walls.

“Who'd'a thought that glass jars needed talkin' to? Or that zap apples like pink polka dots? But magic is as magic does. Just funny that way.”

Once she did so and got the taste and flavor just right she brought it over to her father who had a sales stand set up so he can sell them to the many ponies eagerly waiting to buy the special jam. A line that had the entire town lined up wanting to buy it.

“Then ponies started comin' to our farm from far and wide just to get a taste of my zap apple jam. Some of them decided to stay, like Stinkin' Rich, Diamond Tiara's great grandfather. Matter of fact, the first thing he ever sold was my zap apple jam.”

She recalled as said relative came over and eyed their special jam as he came over to buy some before beginning a life-changing business investment.

“And before we knew it, we had ourselves a nice little town, bustling with all kinds of ponies. And that is how Ponyville was founded.” Granny Smith recalled as everyone was all astonished to hear of this marvelous tale with that’s how it all happened with Silver Spoon the first to start the round of applause to which everyone else but a completely baffled Diamond Tiara joined in.

“Oh, thank you kindly, little ponies. Oh, now now, let's settle down.” She humbly accepted the applause.

“So let me get this straight…” Gumba began.

“If it weren't for you and the zap apples, Ponyville wouldn't even exist?!” Scootaloo asked the question.

“Darn tootin', little filly!” She responded as Apple Bloom took this moment to return the favor.

“If it weren't for my Granny Smith, your daddy wouldn't have Barnyard Bargains.” She smugly remarked as everyone voiced in agreement of how true it is.

“But–But she's just a... kooky old lady!” Diamond attempted to protest to which earned her a collective gasp from the class.

“She is not a kooky old lady!” Apple Bloom immediately said in her defense as she hugged her. “She is the most amazing pony in all of Ponyville!”

“That’s right!” Shakku agreed. “So…” He added as he blew a raspberry at her to put her in her place for the rest of the day.

After school Apple Bloom went home with her grandmother with much more appreciation that before after listening to her grand tale of the foundation of Ponyville as she helped taste sample her just recently made batch of zap apple jam before bringing it out to their stand where the rest of the Apple Family along with Kion, Beshte, and Rafiki are all there to help them out with their business.

“I think this is the best zap apple jam I've tasted yet!” Scootaloo remarked as she took a bite of the special jam on toast.

“It sure is!” Mtoto agreed.

“No kiddin!”

“Oh yeah!”

Their zebra and ostrich friends also voiced in agreement while nodding their heads.

“Must be 'cause you had something to do with it, Apple Bloom.” Sweetie Belle commented as her friend approached them.

“You betcha. Apple Bloom is one humdinger of a zap apple jammer!” Granny Smith cemented that.

“I am?” Apple Bloom returned really touched as she hugged her grandmother as Applejack and Kion approached them.

“So I take it Family Appreciation Day went well?” Applejack asked as Big Macintosh, Beshte, and Rafiki all gather around them.

“Did it? My Granny Smith is super special! I just forgot that for a little while.” Apple Bloom answered as she looked aside feeling a little ashamed for turning the other way in regards to that matter.

“Aw, don't fret.” Granny Smith assured her it’s okay. “I forget things all the time. Now, I'll getcha... er... somethin'. Aw.” She then wondered as her granddaughter hugged her again.

During this Kion winked at Rafiki for his help as unbeknownst to everyone the wise old mandrill had learned of the filly’s plan ahead of time so he went ahead and ensured that her uncle was on the 8:00 train in order to ensure that Granny Smith could make it to Family Appreciation Day at school as much like Granny Smith even though not forgetful they are both same personality kooky wise in regards to knowledge and wisdom of their homelands.

“Who wants to help Granny sing to the water?” Applejack asked to the children.

“We do, we do!” They all exclaimed as they all followed after her as she donned her bunny suit again to sing the alphabet together while the others donned bunny ears.

“A, B, C, D, E, F, G...”

“Diamond Tiara?” Filthy Rich said to his daughter as urged her to do the same.

“But dad!” She whined as he still pushed her to join them.

Upon seeing this Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Kion all share a happy laugh together upon seeing this.

Who would have known that a seemingly confused eldery pony who have been the reason why Ponyville even exists?

Well everyone sure learned a very valuable history lesson out of it especially Apple Bloom with a friendship lesson learned that day too.

Author's Note

For this episode, not much to explain other than Apple Bloom having slight doubts of her grandmother like in canon with the only differences being the kids from the Pride Lands trying to help her out with her problem with them and Kion being there when Diamond Tiara tries to pick on her.

Ultimately it took a small plan by Kion to arrange Granny Smith managing to make it to Family Apperication Day to share a very interesting and worthwhile story for everyone of how important the cycle of the zap apple harvest is along with everything she learned in forming the Apple Family buisness and founding Ponyville.

Next up is "Baboons." where Fuli and Fluttershy are tasked with bringing a baby baboon back to his home.

Episode 17: Baboons!

Episode 17:

Baboons!

In the Pride Lands, the Guard is out for another patrol, where they are all on the lookout for any signs of trouble on the horizon.

“Ono, Rainbow how's it looking from up there?” Kion asked of them scanning the skies.

“We've got a big rain cloud moving in. Other than that, no signs of trouble.” Rainbow reported before Ono noticed something in the skies.

“Wait. Mzingo and the vultures. They're circling...”

“And that usually is a sign of trouble.” Fuli noted.

“Let's go see what they're up to.” Kion voted. “Ono, Rainbow lead the way!”

“Affirmative!” Ono returned as he and Rainbow led the team away…

Well, all expect for one member of team, Twilight Sparkle who is currently with Kiara, Rarity, and Spike at Pride Rock as the latter goes through his checklist as Kiara has requested Twilight’s help with another princess duty she has been assigned by her parents. During the preparations she is approached by her friends Tiifu and Zuri wanting to drag her along somewhere against her will.

“So, where are do you want to take me exactly?” Kiara asked of them.

“Urembo Meadows.” Zuri answered.

“It’s the perfect place for you get ready for your princess duties.” Tiifu added.

“That’s very kind of you two to offer but I’ve already got the help I need covered thanks to Twilight, Rarity, and Spike.” She kindly declined while gesturing to the three standing behind her. “Besides you know I have to be back soon. It's the first time I'm presiding over the Royal Buffalo Wallow. My mom and dad won't be there. It's just me. So I have to make a good impression.”

“But why them?” Tiffu complained.

“Shouldn’t they be helping out with the rest of the Guard?” Zuri added as Twilight stepped forward to them.

“The Guard has plenty of help with them today that they can manage just fine without us so we can help Kiara make sure she can get through her task smoothly.” Twilight said to them as they still refused to accept it.

“But what about making sure she look’s presentable?” Tiifu questioned.

“Rarity will take of that.” Twilight answered gesturing to the unicorn combing her fur.

“But…” Zuri tried to protest.

“Sorry girls, but her decision is final.” Spike stated for Twilight. “Maybe sometime afterwards.”

“Okay.” They relented as Spike escorted them out of Pride Rock.

“Come on, let’s go. The princess is very busy today.” Spike urged them to leave her to it.

“Thanks.” Kiara said to all three of them.

“You’re welcome.”

“No problem.”

“Our pleasure, darling.”

The three replied with a nod.

“Wouldn’t miss it.” Rarity added as she tended to her fur coat to neaten it up. “So just a simple comb and brush?”

“Yes, Rarity.” Kiara returned as Rarity examined her rack of dresses she has lined up. “And nothing too flashy.”

“Of course.” She complied as she looked through what she had in mind to make sure she had one that fits her style and for the occasion before deciding to have some personal notes written down.

Meanwhile, a baby baboon is shrieking and running for his life as Mzingo and his flock closes in on him from above with the dark clouds forming around in the skies.

“As senior member of the Lunch Committee, I move we forego prolonged debate... And dive into business.” Mzingo declared as he flew in towards the ground.

“I second the motion.” Mwoga agreed as he and the other vulture fly in to join Mzingo just as the Guard arrives on the scene.

“Vultures! Leave the baby baboon alone!” Kion shouted after them as Ono and Rainbow intercepted Mwoga.

“Go ahead.”

“Make your move, Mwoga!”

The two dared as the peagsus pony has her hooves raised ready to punch him if he didn’t back off as the baboon retreated in Fluttershy’s arms.

“Don't worry, little one! Mama’s here.” Fluttershy comforted him as Mzingo flew in towards her.

“Incoming!” Beshte yelled as he and Applejack rushed in front of them to intercept the vulture leader.

“No!” He screamed as he is blocked off by Beshte and then bucked in the face by Applejack. “Uh, yield to the Guard! Yield to the Guard!” He quickly ordered his crew to retreat as they all quickly do so but not with a special sendoff message from Rainbow who has Pinkie shoot confetti at them to send them far away.

“Happy travels you mean birdies.” Pinkie giggled as she and Rainbow share a high-hoof together before rejoining the others back on the ground with the baby baboon cuddling in Fluttershy’s arms.

“All right, little guy. You're safe.” Kion assured him as he caught his breath when thunder rumbled with rain pouring down on them.

“First baboons, now rain...” Fuli sighed in annoyance. ”Could it get any better?”

No sooner than she said that a rising wave of water from the nearby stream arrived and snatched the baby baboon away from Fluttershy’s arms.

“Oh, no!” She and Beshte exclaimed together.

“Baboonie!” Bunga added as Fluttershy quickly flew over to try to save him.

“Fuli! The baboon! You're the only one fast enough!” Kion urgently told her to help Fluttershy

“Got it, Kion. Huwezi!“ Fuli complied as she rushed off to do so.

Meanwhile back in Pride Rock, Rarity has managed to put together a fitting dress for the princess to her liking. A simple reddish-brown that’s not overly fancy but fitting for a simple occasion. But what’s halting them from leaving at the moment is the rain showering over the Pride Lands.

“Good thing we still have some time before we need to leave.” Spike commented

“Some time?” Twilight questioned with a little raise of an eyebrow.

“This rainstorm could last all day.” Kiara added with the same expression before noticing something up ahead. “Huh?”

The rainstorm had finally stopped with the clouds clearing up and the sun shining through the bright blue sky.

“Looks like we can finally go now.” Twilight commented seeing that the rain shower was just a brief one. “About time because we gotta get moving.”

“Let’s go!” Kiara stated as she ran off ahead towards to where the buffalo herd is with Rarity quickly and urgently following after her along with Twilight and Spike with the latter riding on Twilight’s back.

“Wait up!” Rarity called after her. “Don’t mess up your dress!”

“Oh, Rarity.” Twilight said in her direction with an amused shake of her head as Spike lovingly gazes at her crush before following after them.

Elsewhere, Fuli and Fluttershy have both managed to catch up to the baby baboon as he had just managed to grab onto a nearby tree branch in the stream to buy them time.

“Hold on! I've got you!” Fuli told him as he picked him up and pulled him out of the water. “There, you're safe. Again.” She said to him rather disgruntled as the thankful child happily hugged her around her neck as thanks to which Fluttershy giggled at the sight before drying his fur. “Maybe you should go on home now.” Fuli gently urged him to do so as the rest of the Guard catches up.

“Aw, that's so cute!” Fluttershy happily commented.

“I think the little guy likes you.” Beshte added.

“Too bad Fuli doesn't like baboons.” Bunga pointed out.

“I like baboons just fine.” Fuli corrected to an extent. “As long as they're not anywhere near me. Now would somebody please help get this thing off me?”

At that moment, they heard a scream nearby from a couple of familiar lionesses nearby.

“How about helping us off of this island?” Tiifu cried out to the Guard just as Twilight, Kiara, Rarity, and Spike just happen to cross by.

“Tiifu? Zuri?” Kiara called out to them. “What happened? What are you both doing on that island?”

“We decided to come here to relax to which you would have loved if you had joined us when this flood of water came over and turned this area into an island.” Zuri explained.

“Don’t worry.” Kiara said to her friends with a sigh. “We’ll help you both out of the island.”

“Okay.” Tiifu responded as she and her friend both relax on the nearby yellow flowers. “Take your time.”

“Consider yourselves lucky you both don’t have to do anything.” Kyoga remarked feeling just as annoyed that not only she has to help them across but has to deal with them not taking doing their part in helping seriously as should be doing.

“Uh, Kion? What're we going to do with this guy?” Fuli asked referring to the baboon still hugging her.

“We need to get him home.” Kion said. “His family probably lives in the big baboon tree in Nyani Grove. It's not far. So it shouldn't take you too long to get him home.“

“Me? Uh...” Fuli wasn’t really open to the task. “Don't you need me to help you get Tiifu and Zuri off the island? And wouldn’t it be easier to just have Fluttershy take him home?”

“We can manage until you get back.” Twilight assured. “And Fluttershy can go with you.” She added with the animal-loving Pegasus more than happy to fly over alongside Fuli ready to help them.

“Besides, I think that baby baboon kinda likes you.” Kion added as the baboon cooed while nuzzling her cheek to which Fluttershy found rather adorable.

“Lucky me.” Fuli sarcastically said before accepting the decision. “All right, off to Nyani Grove it is. Be right back.”

“Thanks, Fuli.” Kion thanked her for doing so as the baboon moves onto her back.

“You ready?” Fuli said to the baboon who nodded as she turned to Fluttershy who nods too. “Then let’s go!” She then raced off ahead as Fluttershy follows after her. “Huwezi!”

“Wait for me!” She called out. “And not too fast!”

As Fuli ran ahead to Nyani Grove, she finds the baby baboon really has a curious desire when it comes to pulling and tugging things, specifically her ears and tail.

“Hey, easy on the ears. And don't pull my tail!” She firmly yet kindly expected of him while groaning. “Baboons!”

By the time they have arrived at Nyani Grove, Fluttershy had just managed to catch up to them.

“Well, here you are. Back home in Nyani Grove.” Fluttershy said to the baby riding on the cheetah’s back.

“Now I can get back to helping the Lion and Pony Guard. Baboons? Hello! Anybody home?” Fuli then called out to someone in the tree above her to which is answered by Big Baboon with a couple of baboons by his side.

“Fuli and Fluttershy of the Lion and Pony Guard? What are you doing here?” He asked.

“We just wanted to make sure this baby got home safe.” Fluttershy replied while offering them said baboon.

“Ah...That's nice of you.” Big Baboon kindly returned. “Just one little problem.” He then brought up as he hooted. “That's not our baby. He belongs to our, uh, neighbors.”

“Fine.” Fuli replied with a reluctant sigh. “Which tree do they live in?”

“Tree?” Big Baboon laughed as if she was joking. “They don't live in a tree, Fuli. They live on Mapango Cliffs. In a cave. Way up at the top.” He added as he pointed to the nearby cliffs up ahead.

“All right. Thanks for letting us know.” Fluttershy returned with a smile.

“Way up at the top?” Fuli sighed again seeing this became harder than she expected. ”Guess this is going to take a little longer than I thought.”

The two then set out towards the cliffs when Big Baboon called out to them for one more thing.

“Fuli? Fluttershy? When you see the cliff baboons, will you give them a message from us?” He asked of them.

“What is it?” Fluttershy asked as they suddenly find themselves pelted by green baobab fruit by them to which they all barely dodged.

“I’ll think it’s better you deliver it to them yourselves.” Fluttershy politely declined.

“Baboons! Always throwing fruit.” Fuli again groaned her annoyance with them before rushing off ahead towards the cliffs. “Let’s just go!” She said to Fluttershy. “Huwezi!”

Meanwhile the Guard along with Kiara are all thinking of ways of how they are all going to get Tiifu and Zuri off of the island as they are both relaxing and in no rush to be rescued.

“A-ha! I got it!” Bunga then thought of one. “Use the Roar to get rid of all the water! Then they could just walk off the island.”

“Unless the Roar destroys the island.” Kion pointed out the major flaw with that idea.

“That wouldn't be good.” Beshte commented.

“Especially if the Roar sends the girls flying.” Kyoga also added knowing when to draw the line at the thought of what the girls deserve. “Even when they are annoying.”

“But there is another way to get them off the island. We can make a bridge!” Kion then thought of with a smile.

“Excellent idea, Kion.” Kiara voted in favor of it.

Elsewhere, Fuli and Fluttershy are both making their way to the upcoming cliffs while the former is trying her hardest to maintain her patience with the baby baboon riding on her back constantly gibbering and screeching.

“Um, Fuli.” Fluttershy spoke up.

“Yes?”

“Listen, I know you’re not fond of baboons to an extent. But you know he is only a baby who just really likes you.” Fluttershy said to the cheetah who sighs in acknowledgement.

“I know, but it’s just most baboons I have encountered beforehand have given me a hard time in the past.” Fuli explained her reasons more to best of her ability while keeping calm about it. “Weather’s it being chased by them just for saying they smelled a little, or them hugging me when I don’t want them too, along with being pelted by fruit or having my ears and tail painfully tugged. So having said I have pretty good reason to not want them in my personal space.”

“True, but that doesn’t mean all baboons are bad.” Fluttershy pointed out. “I mean as Applejack always say one good shouldn’t be singled out just because it came from a bunch of bad apples.”

“Well I guess.” Fuli reluctantly accepted that saying.

“Just try to give him a chance and you’ll come to see baboons in a better light.” Fluttershy suggested as Fuli keeps that in mind as the baboon’s constant gibbering and screeching gets in her head again.

“Hey, baboon? Mind making a little less noise up there?” Fuli asked of him with controlled irritation as the baby baboon suddenly swung up to the nearby tree. “That's better.” She then said as Fluttershy quickly intercepted her. “Now what?”

“Um…Fuli….” Fluttershy pointed towards her back to which she noticed the baboon had left them.

“Baboon? Baboon!” She called out to him as she is whacked in the head with a fruit. “Ow.”

The baboon giggled as he has another fruit ready at the aim.

“Oh, no! Don't even think about...” The cheetah tried to warn her which is ignored when she is greeted to another fruit to the head before singing and trying to get the baby to cooperate with her and tolerating have more fruit thrown in her direction before having to chase after it as he jumps from tree to tree.

Baboons!

Fluttershy could only watch seeing that she can’t force the child off of the tree as bit would go against her element before joining in on the song as she takes a turn while trading turns with Fuli as the baboon then runs by while passing by nearby animals.

As Fuli keeps pace with him, Fluttershy falls back to make sure the snake that had thoughts about eating the child would back off with a small glare before quickly helping the turtle that accidentally slide out of the stream back into the water. All while Fuli sings still trying to reach out to him even though she wishes for this to be over with.

After jumping from elephant to elephant and from giraffe to giraffe the baby baboon finally came back and landed on Fuli’s back by the time Fluttershy had caught up with them.

“Baboons.” Fuli groaned with what she had to go through in protecting him.

“At least he really likes no matter what.” Fluttershy pointed out to try to ease her current frustrations.

“Let’s just get back to Mpango Cliffs.” Fuli just said as they both set back in that direction.

Back at the flowing stream, Beshte and Applejack are now currently working in moving the nearby tree down onto the ground so they can use as a makeshift bridge for Tiifu and Zuri to cross.

“Here we go!” Applejack stated as she bucked at the tree the same time Beshte pushed it down.

“Twende Kiboko!” Beshte added.

“That's it, Beshte!” Ono encouraged as the two strongest members were able to use their teamwork to push the tree down and across the river thus creating a successful bridge.

“Poa! One Tree Bridge, ready to go!” Beshte stated in success with their accomplishment…

…at least until the tree was just swept away by the strong flowing water thus making it short lived.

“And there it goes.” Pinkie said.

“Along with more of the island.” Ono added as the others groan in disappointment as Kiara examines that the island has only a short time left to live before it completely breaks apart.

Turning to Twilight with a nod she walks over to the unicorn as she works her magic in teleporting over there so they can get the two lioness too worry-free to take this seriously.

“Tiifu, Zuri!” She urgently said to them.

“What? Is it time to roll over?” Zuri asked as they took over their eye covers.

“Try lying in the sun, Kiara. It's so relaxing.” Tiifu urged her.

“I'm sure it is. But we're getting out of here. Now!” Kiara then voiced seriously.

“What about the Lion and Pony Guard?”

“Aren't they going to rescue us?”

The two asked as Twilight rolled her eyes before stepping forward.

“No time to wait. Besides, we've got a plan.” Twilight said to them as Kiara explained to them what they are thinking as she gestures to the little puddle of water with pebbles aligned as a stepping stone path.

“We're gonna make a stepping stone path to shore. All we need is a few big stones.”

“Ooh, I see a stone! This will be easy!” Tiifu voiced as she spots a pebble and gently knocks it into the river to which Twilight face-hoofs herself seeing this as the pebble simply floats to the bottom of the river.

“We'll need something just a little bigger.” Kiara gently voiced.

“And by that we mean a lot bigger.” Twilight emphasized as the two girls suddenly get the idea.

“Ooh! This is bigger!” Zuri pointed out to a boulder that fits the bill. “And shinier! I can see my face in it!”

“Really?” Tiifu asked as she examined the rock in question. “Let me see! Does my nose look big to you?”

“No, it looks pretty.” Zuri returned as Twilight rolls her eyes while massaging her forehead in a dismayed manner.

“How these two got their big noses in a bunch here, I’ll never know.” She said to herself feeling surrounded by idiocy on their part as Kiara finds a big boulder they can use to cross the river with.

“Yes, that should do it.” She pressed her head into moving it but had trouble doing it alone as it barely budged. “A little help?” She called out to her friends nearby.

“But... I might chip a claw.” Zuri complained as Twilight groaned very irritated for them.

“Are you both kidding me?!” She said to them very sharply as if she is about to snap at them.

“Zuri.” Kiara growled at them just as irritated.

“Oh.” She along with Tiifu giggled nervously at them before joining them. “Since you put it that way...”

“Okay, here we go.” She began as Twilight got her horn ready to use to guide the others as they push the boulder. “One, two, three... Push!”

The three worked to push the boulder as Twilight used her magic to work to help push the rock to the river to which was not easy for the unicorn since the boulder is rather large. Not to mention that Zuri and Tiifu are not ones who give their full effort all the way to the end.

“Are we done yet?” Zuri weakly asked after minimal effort.

“Not even close.” Twilight responded unimpressed with their efforts so far.

“We need to roll it over the edge.” Kiara repeated.

“Oh! You have got to be kidding!” Zuri complained which is met with stern glares from both Kiara and Twilight. “I mean... Go us!”

“Yay!” Tiifu exclaimed as Twilight just gets back to working her magic.

“Just focus on pushing this rock while I help you all out.” Twilight asked of them as they all continue to work to do so until they finally got in moving into the water…

…which immediately sunk into the river rather than firmly landing in the middle of the stream because of how deep the water is from where they are standing.

“We did it!”

“Yay!”

The two girls celebrated as the other two girls still are not satisfied with what happened.

“No. We didn't.” Kiara corrected them.

“But we got the rock to the river.” Tiifu pointed out.

“Yes we did. But, it sank to the bottom of the river.” Twilight returned gesturing to the river with just a flowing body of water in between as Kiara sighs her silent agreements about her friends thinking the same annoyed frustration with Twilight.

“We'll just have to think of something else.” Kiara just said as she and Twilight ponder their next course of direction.

“I don’t suppose a simple teleportation is in order?” Twilight asked with a expecting a no answer.

“Unless you want to hear them freaking out over your magic non-stop.” Kiara replied as Ono watched the scene from above.

“Too bad that boulder idea didn't work. Better tell Kion.” Ono sighed as he flew over to do so.

Meanwhile, both Fuli and Fluttershy make their way towards the tall Cliffside where the baboon’s home is with the former allowing the latter to keep up with her.

“Won't be long.”

“You're almost home.”

The two said to the baboon before Fluttershy quickly stopped them in their tracks and ducked them under the tall grass in front of them.

“Oh, no!” Fluttershy quietly gasped.

“What?” Fuli asked as Fluttershy points her upwards to see the trio of circling vultures in the sky. “Oh, good, trouble up ahead.” She sarcastically commented before turning to the baboon riding on her back. “All right listen closely. We have to get past the vultures to get to the cliffs. So get down. And no noise.” The baboon complies as he gets onto the ground with the same stance as her and Fluttershy.

“Good. Now follow us.” Fluttershy quietly instructed him as they both go into stealth mode through the tall grass in front of them.

“Hmm, I was certain I saw that delectable little baboon around here somewhere.” Mzingo suspected as he looked around. “I move we keep looking.”

“And I second it!” Mwoga agreed.

“All in favor?” Mzingo asked his followers.

“Aye!”

They agreed as the hiding trio crawl through the grass trying to avoid detection although the baby baboon even with his best efforts ended up stepping on a twig which was heard from above by Mzingo.

“Hmm. All who think that sounded like a little baboon say aye.” Mzingo said to his fellow vultures.

“Aye!”

“The ayes have it. Let us investigate.” Mzingo stated as they move to the nearby tree down below so they can eye the grass more closely thus maker stealth mode harder on the three hiding from them.

“Listen, I've got an idea.” Fuli said to the two beside her as she whispers it into Fluttershy’s ear.

The vultures continue to monitor the grass in front of them to which they notice some rustling and correctly sensed someone was in there. Presumably, the baboon they have been pursuing.

“There! In the grass!” Mzingo alerted. “Come out, come out, wherever you...” Mzingo then said in a sing-song manner towards the stalker’s direction as Fuli emerged from the grass. “Oh. It's you. Greetings, Fuli.”

“All alone, are we?” Mwoga added.

“That's right. All alone. Just the way I like it.” Fuli casually replied as Fluttershy snuck through the grass in the opposite direction with the baboon in tow.

“Hmm. Really?” Mzingo replied unconvinced. “What happened to that delicious... I mean, adorable baby baboon we were trying to help earlier?”

“Trying to help?” Fuli returned unconvinced with his claim too.

“Oh, yes. He was hopelessly lost and we were trying to guide him home.” Mzingo answered and explained as the baby baboon had an itch tickling his nose from some of the grass strands to which Fluttershy had to quickly place a hoof on his nose to stop him before he could alert the vultures of their ruse and stay still to where they are.

“I'm sure he's found his way home by now.” Fuli asserted he is not around. “So, if you don't mind... I'm on a hunt.“

“Hmm. Indeed.” Mzingo accepted then acted out of curiosity. “Uh, what are you hunting?”

“Well, you're looking pretty plump.” Fuli responded while eyeing him specifically with a grin.

“Me?” Mzingo returned startled as he attempted to recompose himself. “Yes... Well... Ahem. Meeting adjourned!”

With that the vultures quickly flew away not wanting to be caught as the cheetah’s prey.

“They're gone...Again.” Fuli said to both Fluttershy and the baboon as the latter leaped onto the cheetah who didn’t bother to complain. “Good job staying quiet under there.”

Once the coast was clear the baby baboon sneezed without raising any alarms nearby.

Meanwhile, Ono has reported to Kion of Kiara and Twilight’s attempt to create a bridge for the two lionesses to cross.

“So Kiara and Twilight tried to use a boulder as a stepping stone? Sounds like a good plan.“ Kion voiced his thoughts about it.

“Yes. Unfortunately, it collapsed part of the island into the water.” Ono added.

“Just like our tree did.” Beshte also brought up.

“Okay, timeout here!” Rainbow felt the need to interrupt. “We are trying to help across this way as opposed to relying on ponies that are capable of magic and flight because why?”

“Because they’ll be non-stop complaining about and freaked out for the rest of their lives.” Rarity pointed out. “And since its bad enough when I start whining we are better off not finding out how long they’ll go on about it.”

“And the same can be said for Twilight if she were to suffer a freak out.” Spike added in agreement referring to her psychotic episode awhile back to which did not go unheard by Twilight herself.

“I heard that.” Twilight sternly said to him who nervously chuckled slightly when she teleported by his side for a moment before quickly teleporting back over to where the lionesses are.

Rainbow knowing she’s right pouts and cross her arms while grumbling to herself feeling this side journey is a waste of time.

“I mean both of the plans were good.“ Applejack then thought of.

“Just not good enough.” Kyoga finished.

“Hmm, I wonder...” Kion then thought of another idea as he examined the body of water separating the two parts of land. “If we put both plans together...”

“That could work.” Kyoga figured as Kion starts giving orders.

“Bunga, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Beshte, Kyoga, help me move that big boulder.”

“Yes sir.”

“You got it!”

“One giant apple-sized boulder at the ready.”

“Ready when you are.”

“Of course.”

“Ready.”

The five all stated as they all got into position as Kion turns to Ono and Rainbow while gesturing to the sole tree on the island.

“Ono, Rainbow, fly over and get Twilight, Kiara, Tiifu, and Zuri. Bring them to that tree.”

“I see...”

“Of course!”

Rainbow and Ono both got the idea Kion is proposing as they put two and two together.

“On our way!” The two stated as they flew over back to the island to do so.

Elsewhere, Fuli and Fluttershy have finally made to Mapango Cliffs to where the baboon’s home is.

“Finally! Here we are.” Fuli announced.

“You're home safe and...” Fluttershy added as the baboon suddenly ran towards the cliff to start climbing up back home.

“Figures. Get him all this way and he just runs off.” Fuli sighed in annoyance as he effortlessly climbs up the cliff as Fluttershy flies up and follows after him to make sure he knows where he is going. “Baboons!”

The baby baboon knowing where he is going managed to make it up to the hole to where his mother is living who happily welcomes him with warm open arms.

“Oh, there you are! You're okay.” She expressed her relief as she embraced her son as Fluttershy smiles at their reunion.

“Okay. Guess our work here's done.” Fuli then said satisfied while preparing to turn and leave only to see Mzingo and his parliament back with hungry eyes at the baboons to which she gasped at the sight.

“Motion to engage with lunch?” Mzingo said to his fellow vultures as they fly in towards the mother and son.

“Aye!”

The mother baboon gasped as she held her son in her arms while growling in her direction as Fluttershy gasps before getting serious along with Fuli who wastes no time in climbing up the cliff to stop them and back Fluttershy.

“Oh, no, you don't!”

Back at the flowing river, both sides have agreed to combine their previous ideas of crossing over to dry land.

“I like your plan, Kion.” Kiara agreed with her brother. “But we better be quick. This island isn't going to last much longer.”

“But we can't leave yet.” Tiifu voiced as she and Zuri got in the way. “We haven't finished getting ready for your Royal Buffalo thingy!”

Before Kiara or Twilight could do or say anything about it the ground they were standing on gave away as they both were swept away by the stream.

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed as the two cried for help as they scrambled in the muddy water.

Acting quick, both Kiara and Twilight came to their rescue with Kiara retrieving Tiifu while Twilight retrieved Zuri.

“Don't worry, We've got you!” Kiara assured as they both quickly retrieved the two while they both got muddy too.

Everyone watching this all sighed in relief aside from Rarity who took note of her now muddy dress.

“Oh no. Not her dress.” She complained.

“You saved us!” The two girls thankfully expressed towards Kiara and Twilight.

“That's what princesses do.” Kiara thought nothing of it along with Twilight as they turn to Kion. “Now let's get out of here. Kion?”

Everyone all on the other side worked their strength in pushing the boulder into the stream which stayed afloat to where it stands when Kion gets on it.

“We're all set with the boulder!” Kion voiced. “You ready to knock over that tree?”

“I’m ready!” Kiara returned confidently.

“So am I.” Twilight added as she and Kiara turned to Tiifu and Zuri. “Are you ready?”

“Ready.” They stated ready to push the tree as Kiara joined them while Twilight got the magic aura on her horn ready to help give them the push they need to guide it in the right direction.

“Then... Push!” Kiara commanded as they pushed the tree branch into the water and onto the boulder which worked wonders.

With both pieces of the bridge set in stone for them, all of them were safely able to cross back over to the safe side of the river where the Guard along with Spike are all waiting for them.

“You did it!” Tiifu exclaimed with a smile towards Kiara and Twilight.

“Not just us.” Twilight corrected.

“We all did it!” Kiara added.

“Right.” Kion returned as Rarity frowned at the mud on both Kiara and Twilight’s fur along with the latter’s mane and tail.

Back at Mapango Cliff, the vultures move in to attack the baboons from the skies.

“Attack!” The lead vulture declared as they close in on the baby baboon and their mother’s home as Fluttershy prepares herself for the upcoming attack while Fuli climbs up the cliff as fast as she can to stop them.

“Vultures! Claws off my baboon!” She yelled out to them as she climbed while the vultures have faster flight speed than her climbing speed.

“It's no use, Fuli. You can't climb faster than we can fly.” Mzingo taunted the cheetah.

But as they were about to close in on their prey they suddenly find themselves assaulted by fruit from the other baboon neighbors to which for once Fuli saw this working in her favor.

“Baboons! Oh! That's it!” She saw an opportunity they are presenting her by doing so. “Hold 'em off. I'm almost there!” She called out to them and Fluttershy as she presses forward in confronting them despite feeling scared deep inside because she cannot stand bullies picking on helpless others.

“Get the baby! I'll take care of Fuli.” Mzingo ordered his crew as he moves in towards Fuli who in return is ready for that fight as she attempts a swipe at him to which he barely dodged but nearly slips and falls off of the cliff.

“Fuli!” Fluttershy exclaimed in fright but had to focus her Stare on Mzingo’s cronies to get them to back off and freeze in paralyzed fear.

As Mzingo prepares to advance on the dangling cheetah he is suddenly greeted to a fruit to the face by the baby baboon himself along with another one which knocked him down towards the lower tree branch.

“Thanks!” Fuli gratefully said to her savior with a chuckle as the baby baboon does a backflip with accompanied with a laugh.

“I'll be back for you.” Mzingo swore vengeance on the baboon as he prepares to fly up towards his direction only to be quickly pounced on by the cheetah to stop him as he pinned down on the ground.

“Mzingo. Tell your parliament to back off!” Fuli demanded of him as he sees that his crew is paralyzed in fear of Fluttershy’s deadly stare while being pelted by fruit from the baboons with the baby getting some good hits with a small stick in his paws.

“Emergency motion to cease and desist!” Mzingo called for his crew.

“Shall we form a committee and put it to a vote?” Mwoga asked.

“No! Stop! (STAMMERS) Go! Now!” Mzingo stammered in fear of the cheetah and peagsus as they both quickly flew away for their lives with the message to think twice before crossing them in mind.

“Fuli and Fluttershy! Fuli and Fluttershy! Fuli and Fluttershy!” The baboons chanted as they praised them for saving them along with their baby while making their way down the Cliffside.

“Aw, thanks.” Fluttershy said with a small pink-tinted blush on her cheeks.

“Baboons.” Fuli chuckled in amusement and pleased with their gratitude.

“Thank you both for saving my baby.” The baboon’s mother voiced her thanks as the baby climbed onto the cheetah with his first words.

“Huwezi!” He said to which Fuli returned a pleased and kind grin at the child as Fluttershy awed.

Meanwhile everyone all arrived at the buffalo’s mud pit where Kiara will perform her royal duties.

“I'm sorry we put you through all of that, Kiara.” Tiifu apologized.

“You too, Twilight.” Zuri expressed regret.

“It’s okay.” Twilight shrugged it off. “Because you did help us as much we helped you. Getting off that island was a team effort.”

“Not just that.” Tiifu added while gesturing to her muddy dress along with her and Twilight’s muddy apperances. “Your appearance too.”

“There are more important things than how you look.” Kiara shrugged it off as well much to their surprise. “Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a royal duty to perform.” She said as Twilight and Spike follow after her as they approach the buffalo leader, Vuruga Vuraga.

“Your Highness.” She greeted Kiara with a bow while nodding in her unicorn friend's direction. "Twilight Sparkle, leader of the Pony Guard."

“Vuruga Vuruga."

"So good to see you.”

Kiara and Twilight happily returned.

“And you. I must say, you look ready for the Wallow! You and your friend.” She complimented on the two for their appearance much to Rarity’s surprise as she witnessed this with the rest of the Guard. “Usually the royals are always so stuffy at these things. But this this is most impressive! Clearly, you understand what the Buffalo Wallow is all about.”

“Really?” Twilight responded with delighted surprise that it all worked out after all. "Well, we are very glad to hear that."

“Thank you, Vuruga Vuruga.” Kiara thanked while turning to her friends along with the stunned fashionista. “Though Rarity, Zuri, and Tiifu deserve some of the credit, too. They always insist I try to look my best.” Vuraga Vuraga turned to them with an approving smile to which they all returned after shaking off with how well it actually works out in the end.

“How about that?” Rarity commented her along with the other girls thoughts while still slightly baffled herself from afar.

“Now! Let the Buffalo Wallow begin!” Kiara then commenced to everyone as the whole herd approach the mud pit in front of them for some relaxing as they soak their fur into the mud and rest their bodies into it.

“Poa! That sure looks like fun.” Beshte commented as Rarity smiles at both Kiara and Twilight for actually giving them the presentation and appearance they truly wanted in the end while seeing that the mud didn’t hurt anything after all.

“Sure does.” Applejack agreed as Fuli regroups with the others.

“Fuli?” Kion greeted.

“Fluttershy? How did it go?” Rainbow added and asked what everyone is thinking.

“Sorry it took so long.” Fuli started with a positive upbeat smile. “The baby baboon's home safe. Just wasn't as simple as I thought it would be.”

“Nothing's ever simple when it comes to Fuli and baboons.” Kion figured with an amused roll of his eyes.

“That’s true!” Rainbow agreed.

“Yeah! Bet you're glad to be rid of that pesky little baboonie.” Bunga voiced of what she’d think she would say with her mission accomplished.

“You know it.” She answered. “Although I am starting to see some baboons a little differently now.” She added as she winked at Fluttershy to assure her that her soft side is still there for them.

”Really? How so?” Pinkie curiously asked.

“Just another friendship lesson she learned along the way.” Fluttershy said on the cheetah’s behalf as she looks back at Mapango Cliffs where the baby baboon’s home is on the horizon.

“Baboons.” Fuli softly said in the place’s direction as she still takes the lesson she learned to heart to which she takes the time to write up a letter to the Princess upon being supplied a quill pen and paper by Spike.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Believe it or not, I have had my fair share of trouble when it comes to baboons. They tend to chase me, get on my nerves most of the time, and even throw fruit at me at times. But thanks to an animal loving friend of mine I learned the good side of baboons and that not all baboons are bad and that you’ll find that in the end that my friendship can extend to those even when they annoy you at times who will always have your back as long as you return the kind caring compassion they seek out of you.

P.S. If you don’t mind, can we please keep this to ourselves? I just really don’t want others to think I have gone to soft. And it would be kind of embarrassing if that happened. Please and thanks your highness.”

Author's Note

In the episode where a baby baboon gets separated from his family he finds himself a target for Mzingo and his flock to which requires the Guard's help in fending off at the same time Kiara's friends manage to get stuck on a small short-lived island in the middle of the stream as a result of a small rainstorm that showered the Pride Lands.

Here we have Fluttershy and Fuli both taking the child home with the latter not so keen on wanting to take apart of but only relented because he really wanted her company. Along the way along with Fluttershy encouragement, Fuli started to take a liking and an open heart towards the child as they both help each other out when Mzingo and his flock attempted another attack on the latter. In the end, Fuli herself learned a very valuable friendship as her eyes opened up to the bright side of baboons.

At the same time, Kiara prepares another royal duty with Twilight by her side but not before having to come to Tiifu and Zuri's rescue when they get stranded together.

For this one, considering with how they fared in canon after the pilot special, I re-written Kiara's part leading up to this along with dialing down their constant complaining to an extent as Kiara, Twilight, along with Kion and the Guard come to their rescue to which they had to combine two good ideas together to help them across.

Furthermore, there is the part where I try to give a justified reason for not using the simple solution in order to get this plot to work out in this episode along with trying to re-write the B-Plot to my liking since I feel it could have been better if written a little differently.

Anyways, the buffalo leader Vuraga Vuraga greatly liked and appreciated that Kiara and Twilight's muddy appearances fits very well with the occasion to which sparks relief in Rarity who went through the trouble and worry of making Kiara presentable with a fitting dress for the occasion.

Next up is "Baby Cakes." where Kion and Pinkie work together to babysit the Cake's newborn twins who give Pinkie a lesson on how babysitting really works out.

Episode 18: Baby Cakes

Episode 18:

Baby Cakes

At the Ponyville Hospital on a nice spring day, the Lion and Pony Guard have all got together to witness the newborn baby foals who have just recently been given birth with Mrs. Cake being one of the lucky mothers having a foal too. Everyone was practically gushing over the newborns as they await to see the Cakes newborns as they admire at the other baby’s in the wing.

“Can you believe the new baby is finally here?” Applejack spoke to the other’s as they eye the newborns.

“Hard to believe that nine months have already passed by.” Beshte commented amazed with how time flies here.

“Cup Cake and Carrot Cake must be so proud!” Twilight smiled at the sight.

“They sure are.” Kion commented in agreement.

“I wonder if it's a filly or a colt?” Rarity voiced as Pinkie was really gushing over them.

“Filly or colt? You mean boy or girl?” Ono questioned.

“Yes, Ono.” She replied as the egret nodded as he gets it now.

“I wanna see the new baby pony! I wanna see! Which one is it?!” Pinkie excitedly voiced as a tired and unkept Mr. Cake came into the room.

“Meet our son, Pound Cake.” He began as he eyed the peagsus pony with cream colored foal with brown hair to which everyone awed at. “….and our daughter, Pumpkin Cake.” He added as he gestured to the yellow pony with a horn and orange pumpkin shaded hair sucking her hoof.

“Huh?” Everyone all voiced their surprised confusions seeing this.

“Cool!” Bunga commented.

“Two new foals for me to play with? That's two, two, two times the fun! This is the greatest day ever!” Pinkie exclaimed as she quickly rushed into the room with her party hat and party kazoo. “We need to celebrate your birthday, babies, 'cause you were just born today! Woo-hoo!”

Before she could blow her kazoo the nurse quickly rushed over to stop her.

“Shhh. The babies are trying to sleep.” She shushed her.

“But I was just–“ She protested only to be shushed again.

“Shhh.”

“But–“

“Shhh!”

Pinkie complied with that part as the nurse turned away from her.

“Happy, happy, birthday to you and you today–“ She tried to whisper sing to the twins only to get immediately throw out of the room.

“Well, can’t say you didn’t have that coming.” Fuli commented unsurprised that happening before focusing their attention back on the children.

“Now how in thunderation is one of them twins a Pegasus and the other one a unicorn?” Applejack questioned.

“Easy. My great-great-great-great grandfather was a unicorn, and Cup Cake's great aunt's second cousin twice removed was a Pegasus.” Mr. Cake explained. “That makes sense, right?”

“Well to some degree…” Ono replied still trying to make sense of it. “…even though that’s quite a lot relatives to go back on.”

“Yeah I know, it takes quite some research to fully understand that.” Mr. Cake acknowledged it. “But it is what it is.”

“Aw, yeah!” Rainbow declared excited at the sight of a new-born flyer in Ponyville. “Heh, just you wait! Once little Pound Cake there gets his wings going, he'll be all over the place.”

“And be careful around Pumpkin Cake.” Twilight also advised to exercise caution.

“Baby unicorns get strange magic surges that come and go.” Rarity added.

“Thanks.” He returned keeping it all in mind. “It will sure require some major adjustments to accommodate all of this but I’m certain we’ll manage.”

“Quick! Make a wish and blow out your candles!” Pinkie still couldn’t keep her distance from the sleeping babies as she presented them cake. “Which is easy, 'cause there are zero candles! You are zero years old, after all!”

The nurse then shushed her again to which Pinkie flinched and ended up getting cake on her face while returning an embarrassed grin.

“Yeah, I’m pretty sure that is zero chance that new born babies can have cake at their age.” Fuli commented with an amused smile as little does the party pony know of what more there is towards watching after newborn babies in house.

One month following the twins were birth, The Cakes were still moving in stuff for their new nursery they have set up upstairs while Pinkie was all already to celebrate the occasion by placing party hats on the twins heads along with kazoos in their mouths while balancing a cake with a big 1 on top.

“Happy month-i-versary to you and you today!

I-can't-believe-you're-already-a-month-old.

Time-sure-flies-doesn't-it-wow.

Seems-like-only yesterday-you-were-born.

But now you're a month old today, hey!”

Pinkie sang to them as she appeared out of the cake with the kids blowing on their kazoos before hugging their big sister like figure like family. Mr. Cake having watched this as he was moving stuff around smiled seeing this with any worries of them not getting along were settled.

“Are you ready for your favoritest game in the whole wide world?” Pinkie offered as she quickly hid behind the double doors to the kitchen. “Where's Pinkie Pie...?” She asked before popping her head out as she opened the doors. “Here I am! Where's Pinkie Pie...? Here I am! Where's Pinkie Pie...? Here I am!” She repeated as the foals laughed finding it very funny before coming over to blow a playful raspberry. “Here I am! Here I am! Here I am!”

“Everything okay in there?” Mrs. Cake then popped in to check up on them. “Who needs a diaper change?”

“Don't worry, they're fine!” Pinkie assured at least until she got a good whiff of their filled up diapers. “Oogh, I mean...”

“Oh, I got it.” Mr.Cake replied as he quickly arrived with two fresh diapers.

He placed the twins on the mat before using his hooves to remove their diapers before tossing them in the nearby trash can. He then placed sprinkling powder on them before placing on their new diapers. The twins giggled as they were both now clean as whistles as Mr. Cake moves to the nearby sink to wash his hooves.

“Is anypony hungry? Mr. Cake then asked.

“Ah, no thanks. I just had a big breakfast.” Pinkie returned.

“I'm on it.” Mrs. Cake quickly walked over with baby bottles filled with milk to which they wasted no time when they started sipping from them as Pinkie watched impatiently for them to finish their bottles. Once they were done, they both started making weird faces.

“Oh, oh, you're making funny faces! I have one! Bleghhh!” Pinkie assumed until Mr. Cake moved to place them in his arms.

“No, y'see, Pinkie, the babies need to be burped.” He corrected with a light chuckle as he patted them on their backs as they both belched.

“All set now? Everything good? Okay, who wants to play again?” Pinkie quickly asked before leading the twins into more playtime she really wants to have with them.

But the two were more interested by the objects around them rather than whatever Pinkie had in mind for them as Pound Cake used his hooves to knock down some alphabet blocks in his path. When he leaped up, he was quickly caught by his mother.

“Uh, uh, uh, Pound Cake, no pounding things.” She gently scolded him before quickly moving to stop her daughter from getting the baby powder on her mouth.

“Uh, uh, uh, uh, we don't chew on things, Pumpkin Cake.” Her father scolded her gently.

“Except food.“ Pinkie added.

“Food!” Mrs. Cake exclaimed as a thought immediately occurred in her head. “Great cinnamon sticks, I completely forgot.“

“No, you just fed them bottles, remember?” Pinkie giggled.

“Not the babies' food!” Mrs. Cake corrected.

“Gh! The food for the enormously big catering order we have to deliver today!” Mr. Cake added as he remembered.

“Oh, with the new twins, we've been so distracted!” She lamented as she quickly got her carrying pouch for the kids to ride on.

“Gh, quick, honeybun, we need to find a babysitter to watch the foals while we take care of this.” Mr. Cake urgently said.

“I could do it! I wanna do it!” Pinkie immediately offered. “Oh, the babies love playing with me, I'll do it!”

“I wonder who would be available on such short notice.” She wondered as they ignored Pinkie not feeling she is ready to accept this responsibility.

“Me! Me! Pick me!”

Just then a ringing bell was heard from the entrance at Sugar Cube Corner courtesy of Kion entering the bakery.

“Hello.” He greeted as the Cakes quickly rushed up to him.

“Prince Kion! Dearie!” Mrs. Cake greeted with a very much needed favor on hoof. “How you doing?”

“Just fine.” He replied while a little taken aback by this greeting. “Everything okay? Is this a bad time to ask for a cupcake?”

“Oh no, not it all.” Mr. Cake calmly answered as Kion handed up the bits for a chocolate cupcake to which she quickly handed up. “We just got a huge catering order we need to take care of and we were wondering if you could watch over the kids for a few hours.”

“Just watch over them?” He asked as Pinkie is repeatedly bouncing up and down wanting to volunteer to do it herself.

“I'll do it! Pick me!”

“Sure. I suppose I can help you out there.” He shrugged as he replied as the Cakes both sighed in relief hearing that.

“Huh?” Pinkie expressed hurt confusion over their decision.

“Oh, thank you! You are such a life saver, Prince Kion!” Mrs. Cake gratefully expressed while kissing his paw repeatedly.

“No problem.” He returned with a smile although looking aside a little awkwardly. “Although you can just call me Kion.”

Once that was all settled the Cakes immediately got to work on their order as Kion watched as they prepared to leave once they got everything together after rushing in and out of the kitchen preparing sweets constantly. All the while Pinkie just sat down feeling down and upset. She on the other hoof could not believe what she is hearing as she felt hurt being sidelined like that even though she was the first pony to step forward to the task.

“Now, Kion, are you sure you really understand the responsibility of watching over two babies?” He asked him as he pranced a little nervously while sweating.

“Yes I do.” Kion answered with a confident smile as they heard the oven ding with Mrs. Cake pushing out a giant cake covered in a cloth.

“Oh, here you are, dearie.” She tossed him a scroll which unrolled towards him. “All your responsibilities are on this list.”

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion quietly remarked upon seeing the long list before eyeing his attention to the baby’s mother. “Okay, not a problem.” He calmly nodded as Mr.Cake quickly rushed over to cart the cake out the door to urge his wife get a move on.

“We'll frost it when we get there! C'mon, sugarplum, tick-tick!”

“Take good care of our two precious little ginger snaps!” Mrs. Cake kindly asked of him before leaving.

“I will do my best.” He assured as he waved the two bakers off as he closed the door after them before turning to the twin babies who both start crying immediately as soon as they were separated from their parents for the first time.

Despite being a little unsettled with their sudden crying, Kion managed to keep himself together as he moved to pick them up and gently patted them on the backs to get them to calm down a little.

“Shh! Shh! It’s okay.” He assured them. “It wouldn’t be long until they get back.”

Even though they both feel safe around him they still can’t help it. It wasn’t enough for them to stop crying as Kion turned to Pinkie who couldn’t resist not turning away from the twins even when she wasn’t asked to watch over them.

“Oh, don't cry, little friends!” She tried to calm them down as she went behind the kitchen doors while opening and closing the doors repeatedly like before. “Look, look! Where's Pinkie Pie...? Where's Pinkie Pie?”

It did little wonder getting them to stop crying as Pinkie then stepped forward to make funny faces at them while Kion continues patting them.

“Oh no... I'm right here, see?” Pinkie said to them as her silly antics aren’t lightening the mood in the slightest. “Oh, think, think, think...”

“Maybe I should just handle this and make sure they’re okay before you try any comedy acts.” Kion suggested. “Because right now they just need to be assured that everything is okay and that their mom and dad haven’t left them.”

“Comedy acts? Hey That’s it!” Pinkie exclaimed as an idea sprung in her head from hearing that. “Hey guys, watch this!” Pinkie then went ahead and put together a comedy act.

“Hey, you're a wonderful crowd here tonight! Where y'all from?” She asked the confused crowd of three while using a broom as a microphone.

“Umm…Pinkie….” Kion tried to tell her as Pinkie briefly held the broom up close to the twins with Pumpkin Cake nearly putting her mouth in it.

“Wow, that's great. Y'know, I used to have an ant farm, but I had to get rid of it because... I couldn't find tractors that small!”

“Okay….” Kion just said not getting the joke as much as the babies as Pinkie moved on to the next joke.

“The other day, I spilled spot remover on my dog... and now I can't find him!” She added as she rushed over to a convenitally placed drum and cymbal set where she performed a ba-dum-tish sound. The twins started crying again as Kion tended to the foals again. “Gee, tough crowd.”

“Pinkie…” Kion began. “Maybe I should just put them to bed so they can get a nap in?”

“Please Kion? I got more one joke up my hooves?” Pinkie pleaded.

“Okay, Pinkie…” Kion relented. “What is it?”

“I wasn't gonna pull off a show stopper, but you're a lovely audience and I think you deserve it!” Pinkie responded as she briefly went behind the curtain and then appeared with a pink nose on her face as she prepares a cheerful and happy song for them.

“First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then you wriggle your snout! Oink oink oink!

Then you wiggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it out! Oink oink oink!

First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then you wriggle your snout! Oink oink oink!

Then you wiggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it out! Oink oink oink!”

She sang to them as the only result her song gained was making them cry even more as she continued to sing even faster to turn that reception around.

“First you jiggle your tail! Oink oink oink!

Then you wriggle your snout! Oink oink oink!

Then you wiggle your rump! Oink oink oink!

Then shout it out! Oink oink oink!”

She then tried over and knocked into a nearby cabinet where flour was sitting on top and spilling all over her fur coat to which the foals immediately stopped crying and giggled at the funny sight.

“There, see? Nothing to this babysitting business!” Pinkie said as Kion went over to help her up.

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Kion gently cautioned. “Much like with being king or leader of the Lion Guard there is more to it that giggles, laughs, and getting your way all the time.”

“There’s more?” Pinkie asked.

“Pinkie.” Kion returned a chuckle before letting her help with the babysitting. “Let’s just move on to the next item of business.”

Pinkie after cleaning herself up joined Kion as he managed to bring the foals into the kitchen without further crying or screaming.

“So Pinkie…” Kion began as he placed them in their chairs as he turned to the pink mare looking at the list. “…What’s next on the list?”

“Snack time.” She answered. “That's easy enough.”

Kion then went over to the fridge and found two bowls of foal food in there.

“Oops.” Kion then remembered. “Forgot the spoons!”

“Spoons?” Pinkie voiced dismissing the need for them. “We don’t need those!” She said before turning to the foals as Kion just went ahead and got the utensils.

“Okie-dokie! Eat up! Like this! Num-num-num, num-num-num-num! Ahh!” She gestured them to eat their food face-first as they stare blankly at her.

Pumpkin then moved to seemingly get the idea as Pinkie smiled only to go straight for the table cloth nearly spilling her snack as Kion quickly caught it before it hit the ground as Pinkie moved to quickly remove it from her mouth.

“No, Pumpkin Cake, we eat food, not tablecloths.” She scolded her to which she started crying seconds after that while Pound banged his hooves on the table as he ended up launching his food onto his head to which he started crying too.

“Huh, huh? Uh, hey, guys, look at me!” Pinkie then quickly moved to cover herself in another sack of flour to get them to giggle instead.

“Yeah. I think I can see where this is going.“ Pinkie then said with a figuring snort and sigh.

“Maybe we should just move on to the next thing on the list.” Kion suggested.

“Okay.” Pinkie sighed as the two moved to the next item of business, bath time.

As Kion got the bath tub all set up for them making sure it was the right temperature for them, Pinkie moved to remove the kid’s diapers. But when the latter was about to do so just as Kion got the tub ready, the kids ran off ahead laughing and wanting to play instead of doing what their caretakers want them to do.

“Are you kidding me?!” Pinkie exclaimed of all times now they want to run around and play before quickly pursing them while they run circles around her until Kion who was patiently watching them positioned himself to use one of the shower curtains to buddle them together.

“Gotcha!” Kion exclaimed as he chuckles while the foals return silly giggles. “All right now, in we go!” He told them as he placed them into the tub.

Before any of the two can cry they took interest and awe to bubbles forming and floating around the tub. Getting the idea, Pinkie as she joins by Kion’s side uses the bubbles and soap foam to make a Santa Claus like beard to further brighten their smiles… Well, at least until one them popped courtesy of Pumpkin’s horn to which they both started crying again.

“Uh, uh, uh, uh, don't cry! Look, look, uh, floating things! Ooh, aaah, eeh!” Pinkie quickly placed a rubber duck into the tub. Seeing this worked she moved to put more stuff into the tub. But Kion quickly placed a paw on her to stop.

“I think only one bath toy will do.” Kion said as he picked out a rubber penguin for the foals to play with along with the rubber duck.

“Okay.” Pinkie complied as she moved to put everything else she grabbed away.

Following that, giving the foals their baths went through smoothly, leaving the bags of flour wasted down to two as the two then dried them up once they both done getting cleaned up.

But as soon as they moved to whatever is next, the foals then decided what it was as they both had already filled their diapers again. Meaning it is time to change their diapers again…

“Phew! Hevi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed as he placed a paw on his nose. “That stinks!”

“Smells like somepony needs me to changy-wangy their diaper-wiper right now-a-wow!” Pinkie added as she too plugged up her nose as she hands Kion the diapers as he stealthily makes his way towards the foals without being spotted. “Easy... easy...” He said as the kids were so far unaware of Kion’s sneak attack nor the foul stench their diapers were having.

One of the twins started to move towards to where Kion was sneaking up until Pinkie called out them.

“Hey!”

When the twins were distracted for the moment, Kion used the opportunity to pounce and restraining them as Pinkie worked to remove the filled diapers before placing on new diapers on them. All the while the two cried again as they both had to force it upon them since they naturally wouldn’t stay still to cooperate with them.

“No, no, no. Not again.” Pinkie urged them it’s okay before quickly running over and fetching another bag of flour and dumping it all over herself just to get them to stop crying and laugh instead.

“Doing okay, Pinkie.” Kion asked at the frowning party pony.

“I would be if I hadn’t had to dump flour on myself every time they cry.” Pinkie said sounding annoyed. “How do you make it so easy?”

“Just comes naturally, I guess…” Kion innocently shrugged. “Just comes with being responsible.”

At that moment a ringing was heard at the door.

“Oh! Thank goodness they're home!” Pinkie then said in relief thinking the Cakes have returned as she moved to answer the door as Kion followed her while carrying the foals as Pinkie opened the door to see it is Twilight.

“Hi!” She greeted.

“Hey Twilight.” Kion returned. “What brings you here?”

“I finished up the work I had to do, so I thought I'd stop by and see if you needed any help.” She replied as she is then suddenly pulled inside by the party pony. “Whoa!”

“Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming!” Pinkie immediately expressed her gratitude. “I can't begin to tell you what my day has been like! I mean, these babies just won't listen to reason, and don't even get me started on their taste in stand-up comedy.”

“It's okay, Pinkie. I figured you would need some help.” Twilight responded as she expected that with a light smile. “That's why I stopped by.”

“Ex-cuse me?” Pinkie returned now offended as Twilight worked her magic to move the toys in proper place.

“Babies take a lot of work, and some ponies are just not cut out to handle the responsibility.”

“Is that so?” Pinkie immediately got in her face for her unintentional consdescending remark. “Well, thanks for stopping by, Twilight. Sorry, I don't have time to visit. I'm very, very, busy with my responsibilities here.” She added as she pushed Twilight out the door.

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Pinkie!” Kion immediately moved in the surprised unicorn’s defense standing in the middle of doorway before Pinkie could shut it. “Don’t send her out for that! She didn’t mean it!”

“What did I say?” Twilight asked still not understanding why she nearly got kicked out.

“I’m afraid what you said implied that she wasn’t capable of babysitting herself.” Kion explained to her as she realized what she had just implied.

“Oops.”

“No worries.” Kion assured before turning to Pinkie. “See. Now, don’t you think we should be taking in all the help we can…”

But to his surprise, Pinkie had attempted to take control of the situation by placing the foals in bed herself as she faced off against as Pound Cake was bouncing up and down in their crib while Pumpkin was chewing on the rubber chicken.

“Well, of all the…” Pinkie still felt offended by Twilight’s words. “…She thinks I can't handle things on my own! Maybe because I haven't handled things on my own. Well, I can handle things on my own!” She voiced with determination as she gets serious on them.

“Pound Cake.” She addressed him face to face to get him obey. “This is a crib. It is only to be used for napping, sleeping, and on occasion with permission, as a pretend old-timey Western fort. It is not a trampoline, so stop your jumping right now, mister!” She then turned her attention to Pumpkin Cake. “And you, young filly. We do not put anything in our mouth that we cannot safely and properly digest, so stop slobbering on that toy this instant!” She then removed the toy from her mouth and placed her in the crib while shocking the two into silence while Kion and Twilight look on with the same expression.

“Pinkiee…” Kion tried to speak to her as she did not turn around and continued barking orders at them.

“Now, we've all had a very exhausting afternoon, and it's time for all good little foals to take their nap. So, fall asleep!”

They immediately do so as Pinkie now feels relieved seeing that worked before gently tucking them into bed.

“Sleep tight.” She said with a warm smile while kissing their foreheads before while pulling the crib pen up to secure them there. She then put everything else on the floor away and then turned out the lights.

“Now that's what I call handling things.” She then said proudly as she smugly smirked at Twilight. “Still think I can’t handle it?” She taunted as she and Kion were more focused on what’s behind them. “Well?” She expected an answer as Twilight wordlessly turned the pony around as they all see that the twins have both made an escape as soon as her back was turned.

“Oh, nononono. Not good, not good, not good! Pound? Pumpkin? Where are you?” She then said urgently as she scoured the room for them. “Come out, come out, wherever you are!”

“Found one!” Twilight directed her attention to Pumpkin Cake in the closet with the rubber chicken in her mouth to which Pinkie quickly scooped up and placed her in the crib.

“Whoa!” She exclaimed wondering how she managed that. “You be a good little girl now, Pumpkin-wumpkin, and stay in your crib for your pal Pinkie-winkie!”

“Now we just need to find Pound Cake.” Kion stated as Pinkie wasted no time in trying to find her as she exited the nursey. “Watch over her.” He said to the unicorn who nodded before continuing.

“Pound Cake?” She clicked her teeth as Kion follows her. “Here, Pound Cake!”

As she walked around the hallway she heard the baby boy’s laughter from inside the house in an eerie and rather creepy manner.

“Uh, Pound Cake? Uh...” Pinkie nervously turned back as Kion went forward after getting a glimpse of the boy.

Pinkie turned back to the nursery and saw Pumpkin Cake still in her crib with Twilight watching over her as the boy’s voice was heard again this time as he made his way back in the room with Kion following after it.

“He’s here.” Kion said to her pointing to the ceiling. “Somwhere in here.”

“Look…” Twilight pointed to the ceiling as they all see the peagsus filly is crawling upside down on the ceiling.

“Whoa!” Kion exclaimed in shock upon seeing that.

“You can fly?!” Pinkie gasped upon seeing this too.

“It would appear so.” Twilight replied as she locks eyes on him. “Along with them starting to learn their new abilities.”

Pinkie quickly wasted no time in trying to jump up and get to the baby colt.

“Oh... get down here... this instant... young... colt!” She sternly demanded of him as she leaped up to him a few times before tripping up on the last bounce and fell on her hooves. “I'm responsible for you!” She insisted that she listen to reason.

“Not a problem.” Twilight assured as she used her magic to gently levitate her down from the ceiling.

But then they saw Pumpkin Cake starting to learn to use her unicorn magic in levitating the butterfly accessory to her with her horn glowing a blue magical aura leaving the pink earth mare jaw dropped at the sight as she levitated it along with several other toys around the room.

“Wow!” Kion spoke looking impressed.

“Amazing.” Twilight remarked with a smile upon seeing this. “Rainbow Dash would sure be proud of him if she was here. I know I am of Pumpkin Cake.”

Said mare used her magic to bring the butterfly to her to which she started sucking on it.

“Okay, Pumpkin Cake.” Twilight moved to gently remove it from her mouth. “Let’s try not to eat them.”

Pinkie still determined to prove herself then bumped Twilight out of the way as she moved to snatch every toy Pumpkin tries to stick her mouth into.

“No no no, Pumpkin.” She sternly said to her. “No, no. No. Hmph! I am the responsible one, and I said no.” She assertively said to her as she locks the toys away in the toy chest before quickly turning her attention back to Pound Cake flying around. “That goes for you too, Pound Cake!”

Just before Kion could gently move to get him to land, Pinkie got immediately in front of him before giving him chase to which she ends up crashing face-first into the wall while the filly just flies ahead effortlessly.

“Gotcha! I think?” She stated as she finds herself dragged away by him as he proves himself to be a very strong flier for a newborn as she winds up dragged down the steps, into the kitchen, crashing and spilling aside multiple baked goods on the table… “Mm, razzleberry.” She took a moment to enjoy the pies that landed on her face before getting serious again… “I'm- not- letting- go! I'm- re-spon-si-ble!”

She is then dragged up back the steps back into the nursery as Pound Cake then flies over to his sister just as Pinkie ends up losing her hold on him due to her tail being snagged by the doorknob. Pumpkin wanting to join her brother by his side works her magic to levitate herself up in the air so she can join him so they can race together.

“Oh, not you too!” She voiced in disbelief before trapping them in a basket that she literally taped into the ground. “There! Now who's the responsible one?” She then said feeling confident that she successfully stopped them just as Twilight got up on her hooves while Kion entered the nursey room.

Alas, her success didn’t last as one phase through spell along with some strong flying allowed the two to escape their confinements.

Seeing this left Pinkie rather disheartened and distraught that all of her efforts were all for naught as they both moved towards the other two babysitters with much more interest as they both saw eye to eye with each other as the foals hugged them. Pinkie feeling completely broken loses it as she bursts into tears while wailing loudly.

The twins immediately turned to face her as they both realize they have taken their antics a little too far and ended up making her feel terrible when they turned to Kion and Twilight and didn’t return the sentiment to Pinkie when she tried to take care of them as much as the others.

The two then moved to fetch a bag of flour and approached Pinkie with the sack in tow. Once they had her attention, Pumpkin opened the bag so flour can spill all over them for once to cheer her up in return. And in return, Pinkie is all cheered up upon seeing it.

“Y'know, you're right. That is funny.” Pinkie then said while calming herself down and wiping the tears off of her eyes.

“And that makes it four bags of flour down the drain.” Kion commented as he kept track of the flour used for funny laughs.

“I sure hope the Cakes don’t have any big orders planned anytime soon.” Twilight hoped as Pinkie spoke up.

“After today’s order they won’t.” Pinkie voiced it’s not a big deal as the twins moved to hug her. Something that she greatly needed after everything she went through today.

“Now we just gotta get you both cleaned up again.” Kion said still smiling as he went ahead to the bathroom. “I’ll go get the bathtub all set up again.”

“What a day.” Pinkie voiced in relief that the twins are finally listening to her as they all make their way to the bathroom together. “Listen Twilight, I’m sorry I nearly threw you out of the house. I just really wanted to prove to you that I am capable of looking after little fillies as well as you.”

“It’s okay, Pinkie.” Twilight kindly accepted. “Because I’m sorry too for offending you with that little remark. I didn’t realize how insensitive that was. Looks like I still got room for improvement in being more sociable towards other ponies.”

“It’s okay. You’re getting there.” Pinkie happily returned as they both smiled with closed eyes leaning their heads towards each other in a friendly matter before giving the twins their second bath before tucking them back into bed after they were both cleaned up.

After making sure they were sound asleep the three then moved to clean up the mess Pound Cake had left through his little flying adventure in the kitchen which went throughout very swiftly and smoothly since Pinkie had Kion and Twilight helping her out.

Once they were done, Pinkie took the time to write down her letter for the princess on the babysitting lesson she learned today.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

I've always had fun playing with little kids, and I thought babysitting meant just more playtime, right? Wrong! Being a caregiver is way more responsibility than just being a playmate. And today, I learned that sometimes our desire for responsibility can outrun our actual ability to handle it.”

“Well said, Pinkie.” Twilight commended her. “I’m certain the princess will love this lesson.“

“She sure will.” Kion agreed as Twilight then made her way back home. “Good night!

“Good night!” She returned to them both just as the Cakes have both arrived back home.

“Kion! Pinkie Pie! We're back!” Mr. Cake announced.

“How did everything go?” Mrs. Cake worryingly asked as Kion approaches them marveled by the sparkly clean state of the bakery.

“Are we in the right place?” Mr. Cake astonishingly asked.

“You sure are.” Kion responded with a smile before uttering a small shush as they all head towards the crib where the sleeping foals lie peacefully and deep in their slumber.

“Kion. P-Pinkie. This is just... just...” Mrs. Cake started almost speechless.

“Amazing is what it is.” Mr. Cake finished. “I mean I knew that you were responsible for the job but we had no idea how responsible Pinkie managed to be to actually do the job.”

“Well as a prince who gives royal respects when due, I can tell you that Pinkie is definitely responsible enough to be a very capable babysitter.” Kion voiced his stamp of approval to which Pinkie squeed with a huge smile. “I couldn’t have done it without her.”

“Would you be interested in becoming our go-to babysitter on a permanent basis?” Mr. Cake then asked of her to which left her rather amazed by that request.

“Hm- Ah- lemme check my schedule!” Pinkie quickly moved to pull her notepad from behind as she prepared to voice against it until Kion placed a paw on her shoulder and gestured her to the sleeping foals uttering their first words.

“Pinkie...” Pound Cake began.

“Pie...” Pumpkin Cake finished.

Pinkie happily gasped and shedded a few tears hearing and seeing this as she then had second thoughts about her initial refusal

“I have some free time next Tuesday.” She voiced her acceptance of the position as she is now ready to give the foals a very heartwarming experience to when their parents can’t be there for them after having learned of a very valuable friendship today.

Author's Note

For this one, Kion and Pinkie take on the role of babysitters for the Cake's newborn twins where Kion plays the responsible guardian to Pinkie's learning how babysitting works role in this episode.

For this in order to fit Kion in this episode I had to downplay some of the babies crying while having him act in on the parts that were unnecessary in cannon such as kicking Twilight out for her Innocently Insensitive remark towards Pinkie rewriting the last part for the three to work together in dealing with the foals newfound abilities.

But in the end, Pinkie learned a valuable friendship lesson out of it and becomes the foal's full-time babysitter thanks to well-deserved praise from Kion.

Next up is "Hearth's Warming Eve." where one of the joyful winter holiday's is celebrated with a play on it's history put on together by the Lion and Pony Guard together.

Episode 19: A Hearth's Warming Eve

Episode 19:

Hearth’s Warming Eve

It’s Hearth’s Warming Eve in Equestria and this year it’s a white one as it is snowing both in Ponyville and in Canterlot. But that’s not the only reason while this Hearth’s Warming Eve is so special this year.

No, it is not just the first they spend together as friends. But it’s the Hearth’s Warming Eve that the Lion and Pony Guard get to perform the most important play of all of history. And it’s a very interesting and important history of friendship and alliances for the ponies of the past to which everyone is very eager to perform and be a part of.

“We're getting closer!” Twilight announced as she and her friends popped their heads out their windows as they approach Canterlot.

“Poa!” Beshte remarked at the sight of the snow falling around and from the skies.

“I can hardly wait!” Rainbow expressed.

“Me too!” Bunga added.

“I'm so excited, I— I feel like shouting!” Fluttershy also expressed while exclaiming softly yet adorably. “Woo-hoo!”

“Hooo-wee!” Applejack shouted a cheer. “Canterlot, here we come!”

“Oh, I do hope I look festive enough!” Rarity expressed while wearing an appropriately fashionable Hearth’s Warming tree hat on her head.

“Very.” Fuli answered with a chuckle.

“If not then I must be dreaming.” Kyoga sarcastically remarked as she and Fuli both chuckled together.

“There it is! Canterlot!” Pinkie pointed to the approaching city just ahead.

“Oooh...” The Mane Six all said together as their train ride arrived at the train station in Canterlot.

“Oh, isn't Canterlot wonderful this time of year?” Twilight asked everyone as they all got off of their train cart.

“It sure is.” Kion answered as he gazed at the snow around the area. “I’ve never snow like this before.”

“I’ll say.” Ono agreed. “Probably because of the Pride Land’s warm climate prevents us from getting any snow. Common knowledge really.”

“I wish it was Hearth's Warming Eve every day.” Rainbow voiced as they follow Twilight to the Canterlot Castle where the play is being held.

“If only every wish could come true.” Kyoga sighed slightly as what she wishes for hits close home for her.

“There's so much to look at! I feel like my durned eyes are gonna pop right out of my head!” Applejack commented as they made their way through town.

“I have an idea, let's play 'I spy with my little eye' as we walk!” Twilight suggested a way so they can pass the time walking to the castle together faster. “I'll go first. I spy... an eight-foot candy cane.” She gestured to the tall candy cane on her left where Scootaloo and another filly have their tongues stuck on them when they tried to lick it.

“I spy a snowpony!” Rainbow exclaimed next turning to the pony creating a snowpony.

“I spy somepony eating a gingerbread house...” Pinkie voiced as she raced towards a nearby shop, arrived with a gingerbread house before chomping into it in whole bite. “...and it's me!”

“But how can you see yourself doing it if you’re eating it?” Fuli asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Easy.” Pinkie replied as she pulled another gingerbread house along with a mirror as she chomps down another one while looking at herself in the mirror.

“I had to ask.” Fuli said feeling she walked right into that.

“You sure did.” Kyoga somewhat bluntly returned as Fuli gave her a friendly jab in the shoulder as everyone laughed together before making their way to the castle so they can get ready to prepare to perform their play.

Once they got to the castle, they all got prepped up while everyone gathers in front of the stage curtains.

“I can't believe that Princess Celestia chose us to put on the most important play of the season!” Twilight again expressed as she sat down while Rarity put powder on her face. “Do you guys know what an honor this is? For all of us?” She asked everyone.

“It sure is…” Ono agreed albeit nervously along with Fluttershy.

“Oh, I wish she hadn't honored me quite so much... I can't go onstage!” Fluttershy expressed as her nerves were starting to get the better of her. “I don't want everypony looking at me!”

She along with Ono retreat to bury their heads in a box of scarves nearby as Rarity approached them.

“Fluttershy, Ono, darlings, there's nothing to feel nervous about.” Rarity assured as she pushed them to the nearby mirror to touch up their eye lashes and hair.

“No?” They asked in unison.

“Of course not. All across Equestria, ponies are preparing their own pageants for Hearth's Warming Eve in their own towns. It's tradition.” She answered.

“So you're saying they'll be too busy to come to our play?” Fluttershy hopefully asked.

“Phew. What a relief.” Ono voiced as he wipes the sweat from his forehead.

“Well no…” Rarity began as Kyoga quickly rushed over a placed a paw over her mouth while shaking her head against saying otherwise to correct them before letting her speak. “…not many will be around to come and see us. Just a few ponies will be.”

As soon as Kyoga let go of Rarity a sudden breeze of cold wind entered the room that sent Ono flying back into the box of scarves while sending a chill up Fuli’s spine.

“What the heck?” Fuli exclaimed as she turned towards the gust of wind.

“Oh, my hair! Applejack? Be a dear and shut those windows, will you?” Rarity asked of her while she was putting on her costume to which she turned to the peagsus pony nearby the window too busy cheering for herself like the crowd would.

“Aaah! Rain-bow-Dash! Rain-bow-Dash! Aaaah! Thank you, thank you!”

“It's a reenactment of the founding of Equestria. It's not the 'Rainbow Dash Show'.” Applejack irritably reminded

“Well it should be the 'Rainbow Dash Show'! I'm the star!” She returned as Fuli joined in the argument.

“You?! Since when is a play where everyone has a equal role in it revolve around you?!” Fuli challenged.

“Curtain in two minutes!” Spike announced from the curtain.

“My hair!” Rarity complained.

“Shut the window!” Everyone shouted as Kyoga quickly went over to do so.

“Oh for goodness sake!” Kyoga snapped as she slammed the windows shut which startled everyone. “You were all so busy arguing that none of you could do a simple task?!” Everyone was rendered speechless unable to come up with a good counter argument.

“Now?” Kyoga continued. “Are we all here to show everyone of how we represent friendship and harmony or are we all here to show them of how not to represent friendship and harmony. Because if we are why don’t we just spare ourselves the trouble of embarrassing the princess and just go home?”

Everyone had nothing to say because she is right and they need to turn that around.

“Well…” She expected an answer.

“We’re going to show everyone of how we represent friendship and harmony.” Rainbow Dash answered.

“Good. Now get ready.” Kyoga then ordered as they all quickly do so as she takes a moment to take a deep breath to calm herself down.

“Yes that was harsh.” She said to herself. “But I couldn’t let them go on stage like that?” She sighed as she went to make sure her costume was properly readjusted before joining her friends on stage.

In less than two minutes, everyone was ready to take the stage and begin the play.

“Once upon a time, long before the peaceful rule of Celestia, and before ponies discovered our beautiful land of Equestria, ponies did not know harmony.” Spike began the narration with a faux British accent while standing in front of a prop fireplace. “It was a strange and dark time. A time when ponies were torn apart... by hatred!”

The audience gasped hearing that, especially the Cutie Mark Crusaders up front.

“Oh my!” Thurston commented.

“I know. Can you believe it?” Spike whispered as he broke character to address the audience.

“I know. You broke character.” Thurston added as Kyoga quickly used her magic to force him to the back of the room. “Whoa!”

“Who invited that clown?” Kyoga asked herself as Spike continued.

“The one writing the invitations, girl.” A voice in her head sarcastically remarked as she looked around wondering what that voice came from.

“What?” She wondered with a befuddled expression as if that voice sounds familiar as if it belongs to someone she hadn’t seen nor heard in years as the spotlights shined on the three groups of ponies.

“During this frightful age, each of the three tribes – the Pegasi, the unicorns, and the Earth ponies – cared not for what befell the other tribes, but only for their own welfare.”

As Spike further narrated, the curtain opened and closed for each type of pony in groups carrying on with their daily business staring with the Pegasi shaking the clouds for it to snow.

“In those troubled times, as now, the Pegasi were the stewards of the weather. But they demanded something in return: food that could only be grown by the Earth ponies.”

“Interesting.” Scootaloo whispered to Apple Bloom.

“I know right.” Apple Bloom agreed as she along with the other Crusaders and Pride Landers next to them nodded as the earth ponies with unhappy and irritated expressions handed the Pegasi ponies food while doing the same for the approaching and demanding unicorns before lowering the sun and raising the moon.

“The unicorns demanded the same, in return for magically bringing forth day and night. And so, mistrust between the tribes festered until, one fateful day, it came to a boil.” Spike continued as the skies turned to a dark and snowy night with strong winds blowing. “And what prompted the ponies to clash? 'Twas a mysterious blizzard that overtook the land, and toppled the tribes' precarious peace.”

The earth ponies were unable to produce fresh crops from the extreme cold weather as one of them teared up upon coming across a dead crop while a family who is barely keeping warm in a small fire in their house had their roof fly off and source of warmth blown out leaving them all shivered from the immediate exposure to the dangerously cold weather.

“The normally industrious Earth ponies were unable to farm their land. The Earth ponies were freezing.”

Next up was the struggling pegasi as they floated around slowly while feeling depleted inside due to a lack of food as one of them ate the hair from his helmet while the unicorns were barricaded inside their home with little food and barely holding their fort down as the winds proved too strong for the doors as the double doors were sent flying off of the mountain.

“The home of the Pegasi fared no better. The Pegasi were hungry. And the unicorns were freezing and hungry. Even the unicorns' magic was powerless against the storm.”

As the storm brewed, the three ponies all fought over some food they managed to salvage before duking it out with each other viciously as they are all at each other’s throats before a meeting from all three parties was held at the building in the center in town shortly afterwards to resolve all of this.

“Each tribe blamed the others for their suffering, and the angrier everypony grew, the worse the blizzard became. And so it was decided that a grand summit would be held to figure out a way to cope with the blizzard. Each tribe sent their leaders.”

Fanfare played as the three leaders all approached the table in the center of the room starting with Rarity playing the leader of the unicorn tribe wearing a shiny and stylish purple robe with a silver crown with purple jewels on it to match her necklace.

“Daughter of the unicorn king, Princess Platinum.”

Next up is the leader of the pegasi tribe wearing black and gold armor and a matching helmet played by Rainbow Dash.

“Ruler of the Pegasi, Commander Hurricane. And lastly...”

The last leader played by Pinkie Pie wearing an appropriately fitting costume as she blew out confetti from her costume before facing the other leaders as they all take off their headwear with serious looks.

“...leader of the Earth ponies, Chancellor Puddinghead. Perhaps the three tribes could finally settle their differences, and agree on a way to get through this disaster.”

Of course in no time flat did the three leaders all squabbled incoherently off the top of their lungs.

“All I wanna know is why the Earth ponies are hogging all the food!” Commander Hurricane demanded as she stomped her hoof on the table as the other Pegasi shout in agreement.

“Us?! We're not hogging all the food, you are!” Chancellor Puddinghead argued back. “Oh, wait, you're right. It's us.” She stood corrected blissfully before getting serious again. “Well, it's only 'cause you mean old Pegasusususes are making it snow like crazy!”

“For the hundredth time, it's not us! We're not making it snow!” Commander Hurricane responded defensively before locking eyes with Princess Platinum. “It must be the unicorns! They're doing it with their freaky magic!”

“How dare you!” The unicorn princess released an offended gasp with a hoof to her chest. “Unlike you Pegasi ruffians, we unicorns would never stoop to such a thing! H-m-ph!”

The unicorns all huffed in agreement.

“Well, if you non-Earths aren't gonna stop using your weirdo powers to freeze us all, then I'm just plum out of ideas.” Chancellor Puddinghead slumped her head onto the table.

“What a shocker. An Earth pony with no ideas.” Commander Hurricane responded with a condescending remark.

“Commander Hurricane, please cease with the insults!” Princess Platinum urged the Pegasi leader to do so as she got in her face.

“You're not the boss of me, your royal snootiness!”

“I beg your pardon?!“ Princess Platinum responded rather offended by that insult as she placed her crown on upside down. “I am a princess! I won't be spoken to that way!” She then strides away from the table with whatever dignity she has right now.

“Well, I'm leaving first!” The commander voiced as they both made their way to the door as the chancellor appeared right in front of it.

“No, I'm first!”

The three leaders all struggled as they all forced their way out while struggling and getting in each other’s way until they were all able to go their separate ways once the double doors opened up for them.

“And the blizzard raged on.” Spike narrated as three spirits with the forms of majestic horses watch on with icy blue glowing eyes while blowing more gusty winds their way with increased intensity.

“So the summit of the tribes did not turn out as well as hoped, and the three leaders returned home to lick their wounds... and basically complain.” Spike continued to narrate as the three tribe leaders do exactly as he described it.

“Atten-tion!” The Pegasi commander addressed her private soldiers played by Fluttershy and Ono wearing black and silver armor with matching guard hats who saluted with the former accidentally stumbling out of the cloud she was standing on. “Well? Aren't you curious about how it went?”

“Oh! Commander Hurricane, sir! How did it go, sir?” The female private officer asked as she approached the bottom of the stairs where her commanding officer stands at the top as her partner landed on her shoulder.

“Horribly!” The commander yelled as she pushed snow from the top of the stairs on onto the two soldiers who both walk up the steps closer to her as she continues. “Those other tribe leaders are so disrespectful! Don't they realize that we are a mighty tribe of warriors, and should not be crossed? We have got to break ranks with those weak foals!”

During her rant she ended up inadvertently sending the two tumbling down the stairs and back into the snow when she swung her hoof and caused them to lose their balance.

Elsewhere, Princess Platinum has returned to her castle while shivering her bones off.

“Clover the Clever! I need you!” She called out for the unicorn played by Twilight wearing a brown cloak over her head while Kyoga and Fuli playing two other unicorns wearing a matching cloak with horn props worn on their heads matching to their fur color.

“Yes, your Majesty. Did the other pony tribes see reason as I predicted?” Clover answered while levitating a bucket of water for her princess.

“Those other tribes are impossible! I, for one, can no longer bear to be anywhere near those lowly creatures. The unicorns are noble and majestic. We will no longer consort with the likes of them!” The princess angrily declared while leaping into the bucket while splashing water on the two while the peached color actress raised a paw to avoid water getting on her nose like the other unicorn.

Meanwhile, Chancellor Puddinghead entered her home through the chimney as opposed to entering from the front door to which her assistants played by Applejack, Kion, and Beshte.

“Wouldn't it have been easier to use the door, Chancellor?” The orange earth pony questioned.

“Maybe for you, Smart Cookie. But I am a chancellor. I was elected because I know how to think outside the box. Which means…” She responded as she stuck her head back in the chimney. “I can also think inside the chimney. Can you think inside a chimney?”

“Uh...” Smart Cookie could barely get a word or a proper response in as the chancellor walked by with black soot on her face.

“I didn't think so.”

“Ugh.” Smart Cookie groaned as the chancellor had an idea bulb spring off in her head.

“Ohmygosh. Hold on to your hooves! I am just about to be brilliant!”

“That'd be a first.” Smart Cookie muttered under her breath as Kion’s character popped the question.

“What is it?”

“I have decided that the Earth ponies are gonna go it alone!” She answered with a bright smile as the yellow earth pony’s smile faded.

“Aw, so you mean the other tribes didn't come around?” Smart Cookie figured. “Shoot... I really thought we could get through to 'em if we–“

“Don't worry about them.” The chancellor immediately dismissed positive they’ll be fine before getting nose to nose with her two fellow earth ponies. “We're the ones with all the food, right?”

“Um…actually, we're all out.” The male earth pony corrected.

“Fine, then we'll have to go somewhere new where we can grow some new food.” Chancellor Puddinghead declared as she moved towards the front door. “And with me as our fearless leader, what could go wrong?”

“Well…” The large earth pony started to speak up until…

“Just don’t answer it.” The golden fur earth pony urged him not to say it with a gentle nudge.

No sooner that she tempted fate as she prepared to walk out the door snow covered the chancellor under a small pile that formed in front of the entrance.

“Where should I start?” Smart Cookie questioned with a deadpan expression and tone.

“The point is...” The chancellor began as she and the other leaders declared at the exact same time in different locations.

“We must find a new land!”

The Peagsus commander wasted no time in dragging her lieutenants along the way in search of what she is looking for although her subordinates aren’t as strong flyers as Hurricane as they had trouble braving through the strong winds and cold dropping temperatures.

“C'mon, Private Pansy, let's get a move on! Hup-one, hup-two!” The commander barked at the two as lightning crackles with the two leaping into their leader’s arms.

“Get a hold of yourself, Private!” Hurricane barked at them as she let go of them. “We cannot let anything distract us from the mission at hand. To find, and if necessary, to conquer a new land!”

“Conquer, sir?” The male private asked of what she meant by that as her commander pushed Private Pantsy towards the way not wanting any solider left behind.

“You never know where enemies might be lurking.” The commander answered as she lurked around.

“I don't see any enemies, Commander. Just... snow.” Private Pantsy pointed out.

“A-ha! What's that?!” The commander spotted and then attacked what she thought was a new enemy which was really just dark clouds as Private Pantsy flew into Hurricane’s arms after being startled by a small hoof sized cloud. “Okay. This is getting old.” She then commented with a shake of her head while dropping her as she does this almost every time she brings her to a mission.

Meanwhile Princess Platinum along with her three escorts have just begun their journey and true to the princess’s character it didn’t take long at all for her to complain about the bitter cold and snow.

“Oh, this is simply taking forever. My hooves are killing me! How long have we been walking for?”

“About five minutes, your highness.” Clover pointed out as her other escort showed her the castle in sight after pulling aside one of the branches of the bush behind them.

“Oh, I never imagined finding a new land would be so hard.” The princess complained as she pressed forward. “But it'll all be worth it, don't you agree?” She turned back to her royal escorts.

“Moreso if it’s worth dragging us all the way out to whether you’re taking us.” The yellow furred unicorn irritably commented not liking being dragged out to follow and listen to her complain every second and step of the way.

“I actually think that the three tribes could've tried harder.” Clover voiced.

“If only you…” The princess’s other escort dryly began until the princess then hollered…

“Stoooooop!”

“What's wrong?” Clover asked as she along with her partner quickly rushed to the princess’s side.

“That is what's wrong!” Princess Platinum pointed out to a relatively small stream of water that can be easily crossed.

“Seriously…” The yellow and peach-colored unicorns commented in unison with matching raised eyebrows.

“Your Highness, it's just a stream. We can cross it easily.” Clover assured the princess as she along with the other escorts demonstrated by walking on the stepping stones to the other side. But the princess still refused to budge an inch to which her two only servants by her side roll their eyes in annoyance.

“I refuse to get my gown wet. I have no intention of arriving at my new land looking like a bedraggled Earth pony, or worse yet a rough-and-tumble Pegasus. I, for one, have no intention of stooping down to their level. On the other hand, I have no trouble watching you stoop down.”

Clover groaned as she used her magic to levitate the princess to the other side. “Happy?”

Satisfied, The princes led the way with her annoyed cohorts following after her.

At the same time, Chancellor Puddinghead along with her companions as well as another pony played by Bunga accompanying them for the ride as they all make their way by the diamond-filled mountains.

“Yes, yes. This is definitely the right direction.” The chancellor’s assistant voiced as he read the map with his face pushed in it which created a hole in their source of navigation.

“It feels like we're going in circles.” Smart Cookie commented as they both see the circle of footsteps in front of them with the other earth ponies just standing in front of them looking lost with what they are doing.

“But that's impossible. Are you suggesting that my assistant reading the map wrong?” Chancellor Puddinghead then questioned her as the strongest pony approached her.

“Absolutely not, your chancellorness. It's just that there are holes in the map, and–“ He tried to explain to her…

“Of course! How else could I see where I was going?” The chancellor then dismissed as she walked to the side.

“Yeah, uh–“ Smart Cookie tried to warn her leader…

“Or talk?” Chancellor Puddinghead continued. “I need to be able to talk! I mean, how would we survive if I just suddenly shut up?”

“Heaven forbid that should happen, your chancellorship.” Smart Cookie voiced sarcastically before further trying to correct her as gently as possible. “Heh. It's just that... the map is also upside down.”

“I got a newsflash for you, Cookie. The Earth is round. There is no up or down.” She responded as she walked off ahead.

“You're right! It's such a relief to me that you're in charge of this map...” Smart Cookie sarcastically remarked to which the chancellor got walking backwards back towards her with her assistant joining in on the confrontation.

“Relief? You don't need relief! If anypony needs relief around here, it's me!” The chancellor then spewed her big fat ego to her assistants. “I'm a chancellor! I'm a bigshot! You're just my, um... my, uh...

“Secretary.” Smart Cookie finished.

“Whatever.” Pinkie responded by snatching and placing the map into her mouth before spitting it in her face. “You take the map while I enjoy some relief.”

“Yes, Chancellor Puddinghead.” She complied as the chancellor along with her assistant walk off the cliff accidentally.

“And so, each leader encountered obstacles along the way, but eventually, they all arrived in a new and wondrous land. Nopony had ever seen paradise before.” Spike then narrated as the three search parties have arrived at an area with clear skies filled with sunshine and warmth spreading across the area.

“This is the new land we've been searching for!” Commander Hurricane voiced her pleasure as she hopped from cloud to cloud

“What a view...” The male private voiced as he looked all around the mountains.

“I can see my future house from here.” Private Pansy voiced as she looked down as her commanding officer pulled out a flag so she can claim this land as her own.

“I proclaim this new land to be... Pegasopolis!”

At the same time, Rarity and her escorts have arrived at the gem-filled mountains as they all walk along the Cliffside.

“I've never seen such jewels!” Princess Platinum remarked as she examined the jewels. “This ruby is dazzling. This whole land is dazzling. I'm double dazzled!”

“Got a great source of valuable income we could use.” The peach-colored unicorn commented as the princess squealed before placing a flag onto the ground so she can proclaim this lands as her own.

“In the name of the unicorns, I hereby dub this land Unicornia!”

Elsewhere, Chancellor Puddinghead along with her three followers make their way to the new land as they admire the scenery around them.

“Nice.” The large earth pony commented in amazement.

“The air! The trees! The dirt! This dirt is the dirtiest dirt in the whole dirt world!” The chancellor exclaimed in delight as she and her assistant roll around in the dirt.

“And fertile, too. Perfect for growing food.” Smart Cookie pointed out as she pulled up a growing plant.

“In the name of the Earth ponies, I think I'm gonna call this new place... uh... Dirtville!” Pinkie then proclaimed.

“How about "Earth"?” Smart Cookie dully recommended.

“Earth! Congratulations to me for thinking of it.” She then said as she dropped her hat with a flag appearing from under it so she can make it official.

“We found our new home!” The three leaders then stated in unison as they all suddenly see that they all have done so at the exact same time right nearby each other. And not one of them expected the other to have had the same idea.

“I planted my flag first!” Commander Hurricane exclaimed assertively.

“Did not!” Princess Platinum argued.

“Did too!”

“I planted mine earlier than first.” Chancellor Puddinghead voiced as her flag post fell over.

“All of you riffraff are trespassing in Unicornia!” Princess Platinum fired at the other two leaders.

“The name is Pegasopolis!” Commander Hurricane corrected as they all come to blows again.

“Earth!

“Pegasopolis!”

“Unicornia!”

“I say we fight for the land. May the best pony win!” Commander Hurricane then proposed as she got in the princess’s face as the cold chilly winds blew their way.

“That's barbaric.” The princess refused while levitating Clover in between them. “Clover the Clever, throw that brute into the dungeon!”

“What dungeon?” Clover asked in confusion. “Look, perhaps if we all calmed down...” She tried to propose as the other followers voiced in agreement.

“…Yeah. Maybe we should listen to them.” The chancellor’s assistant agreed.

“I agree. Let's all calm down.” Smart Cookie urged them to do so.

“I vote for calm.” Private Pansy voted.

“I'll have you court-martialed for insubordination, Private!” Commander Hurricane threatened her to stay in line as the winter storm started to rage upon where they stand. “We settle this on the battlefield!”

She is then whacked in the face with a snowball along with Princess Platinum when she took a moment to laugh at her only to get smacked in the face with a snowball too to which Commander Hurricane laughed at her as the princess now got furious at that strike towards royalty.

“Who dares throw a snowball at royalty?!” The princess demanded as the dark clouds formed around them just as Chancellor Puddinghead suddenly noticed there was snow falling from the skies.

“Wait a minute, where'd all this snow come from anyway?” She asked as the male private solider noticed the changing weather.

“Since when did we have a sudden forecast for snow all of a sudden?” He questioned.

“Oh no. Not again.” Commander Hurricane then realized as the Windigos all bear down on with all of the harsh and bitter power they have at their disposal as the extreme cold weather falls upon them all.

“And so the paradise that the ponies had found was soon lost, buried beneath a thick blanket of snow and hard feelings.” Spike then narrated. “Instead of beautiful, it was blizzardy. Instead of wonderful, it was wintry! Instead of spectacular, it was snow-tacular! Instead of–“

“We get it! Move on!” One of the ponies yelled out.

“Yeah!” Thurston agreed as one of the guards casted him a stern look to warn him he is going to get thrown out if one more word comes out of his mouth as Spike continued without further interruptions.

“Everypony was forced to seek shelter. They searched high and low, but the only shelter for miles was a cold and desolate cave. And, of course, the three tribes had to share it, and nopony was too happy about that.”

While the leaders were shooting daggers at each other’s eyes, their accomplices silently preferred that they all work together and put aside their differences.

“Please, Commander Hothead.” Princess Platinum said to the peagsus pony.

“It's Commander Hurricane.” She corrected as they briefly got nose to nose as the princess cleared her throat.

“Please, Commander, could you just stand back and give me my royal space?” She expected of her while pointing to her hoofs on the ground.

“You mean like this, your highness?” Commander Hurricane returned as she deliberately stepped a hoof closer towards her.

“Indeed not!” Princess Platinum corrected as she pushed the hoof aside to point her attention to the ground. “You see this invisible line?”

“Private, outline our territory for everypony to see.” The commander said to the other female peagsus as she started following her orders to which the commander then grabbed her and flew her around the cave so she can mark her territory. “See this real, non-invisible line? No unicorns or Earth ponies are allowed to cross it! This is the sovereign territory of Pegasopolis!”

“Clover the Clever?”

“Uh... Smart Cookie!”

The other two leaders called for the other two ponies to do the same.

“I know, I know.” Smart Cookie complied along with Clover without another word as they both draw lines for their respective leaders. During this they ended up face to face with each other as they both drew lines towards each other before turning the other way.

“What are you doing?” Commander Hurricane exclaimed as she spotted Private Pansy drawing around the rock. “Don't go around the rock, go over it! I'm not giving up an inch of territory to the enemy!”

“That rock is clearly on the Unicornia side of the cave, and it belongs to us!” Princess Platinum begged to differ as she approached them before whispering to her two accomplices. “Who knows? There could be jewels inside.“

“I claim this rock for Pegasopolis!” Commander Hurricane declared as she pushed the rock into her territory.

“Unhand that rock this instant, you scoundrel!” Princess Platinum demanded as Chancellor Puddinghead suddenly appeared.

“Oh, look, you found my rock. I've been looking for it everywhere.”

She then picked up the rock with her teeth and then ran off ahead with it back to her side of line.

“Hey! You invaded our territory!” Commander Hurricane then said to her.

“Finders keepers, losers weepers!” She simply responded in a taunting manner to which worked the Pegasus pony’s last nerves.

“That's the last straw!” She stated as she enters the chancellor’s marked territory as Princess Platinum does the same.

“Give me my rock!” She demanded as the chancellor ran ahead with the rock in tow as the unicorn princess and the commander both give her a chase all while arguing with each other unaware that the Windigos have frozen their entrance with ice leaving them all trapped inside the cave.

“Look, everypony! The entrance!” Clover the Clever shouted directing every pony’s attention to the cave being sealed shut.

“Great. Now there's no way out! We're trapped!” Commander Hurricane grumbled.

“You two deserve this horrible fate. You've done nothing but argue and fight with each other!” Princess Platinum retorted.

“You've been fighting too, your Highness.” The commander rightfully fired back.

“Yeah! Worse! I haven't been fighting nearly as much as you!” Chancellor Puddinghead added even though she had her fair share of the blame.

“How ridiculous! A unicorn never stoops to fighting!” Princess Platinum fired back as she along with the other tribe leaders are unaware that their bodies are freezing up into ice to which the followers slowly backed away into the center of the cave once they noticed it.

“That's just 'cause you wimpy unicorns know you'd never win! Earth ponies are numbskulls!”

“Pegasi are brutes!”

“Unicorns are snobs!”

The three leaders argued their last words as they are all froze up and completely encased with ice leaving the others backed up against each other as the ice surroundings form to the center of the cave while briefly sighing in relief although the moment didn’t last long when they huddle together upon hearing and seeing the Windigo’s roaring howls from the skies.

“W-W-What is that... thing?” Private Pansy stammered.

“They must be... windigos!” Clover the Clever answered.

“Windigos?” Everyone else questioned as Clover explains it to everyone.

“My mentor Star Swirl the Bearded taught me about them. They're winter spirits that feed off fighting and hatred. The more hate the spirit feels, the colder things become!”

“Then... this is our fault.” Smart Cookie said in realization. “We three tribes... we brought this blizzard to our home by fightin' and not trustin' each other. Now it's destroyin' this land, too.”

“What are you all talking about?” The comedic assistant of the chancellor questioned. “This happened because our leaders couldn’t come to an agreement of settle their disputes.”

“Nevertheless, we are still unicorns, Pegasus, and earth ponies and we should have done more to reason with them.” The other unicorn pointed out.

“And now our bodies will become as cold as our hearts... all because we were foolish enough to hate.” Clover then expressed as they are further centered in the cave together.

“Well, I don't hate you...” Private Pansy voiced to make it clear she has no ill feelings towards any of them while directing any negative feelings towards her frozen superior. “I actually hate Commander Hurricane a lot more than I hate you guys.”

Everyone giggled as the Windigos snort as they prepare to encase the remaining ponies in ice.

“Actually, I don't really hate her…” She continued… “…I just really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really dislike her.”

“You mean of her poor decisions in life?” The smaller peagsus asked.

“Yes.” She replied as everyone laughed even when being further encased with ice.

“Well, I don't hate you guys either.” Smart Cookie expressed.

“Nor do I.” Clover also expressed in agreement.

“Me neither.” The other earth pony added as the only things yet to freeze is their heads.

“Couldn’t have said it better.” The golden furred earth pony agreed.

“Me neither.” The yellow furred unicorn nodded.

“Because no matter what our differences, we're all ponies.” Clover declared as they all huddle together while calmly smiling while accepting their fate’s with dignity.

Then all of a sudden, Clover’s horn along with the other two unicorn's horns glowed along with eyes glowing bright white and together they sent a burst of magic upwards that not only melted the ice encasings but created a fiery display of magic that vaporized the Windigos and then turned into a fiery heart once the Windigos were banished.

“Wow!” Both the male earth ponies voiced upon seeing this.

“What was that?” Private Pansy asked.

“I didn't know unicorns could do that.” Smart Cookie voiced in amazement with what she saw.

“I didn't either.“ Clover voiced just as surprised herself before they all joined hooves together. “Nothing like this has ever happened before. But I know it couldn't have been just me. It came from all three of us, joined together, in friendship.”

“All through the night, the three ponies kept the fire of friendship alive by telling stories to one another and by singing songs, which of course became the winter carols that we all still sing today.” Spike narrated as all of the ponies aside from their leaders all did exactly that. “Eventually, the warmth of the fire and singing and laughing reached the leaders, and their bodies began to thaw.” Literally the ice around them melted as all of their leaders expressed gratitude for saving them and helping them realize how wrong they were just as the cave exit opened up again with the land returning to its prosperous state. “And it even began to melt their hearts.”

Immediately afterwards, they all came to a truce and decided to put aside their differences aside so they can press forward together for a brighter future by creating and posting a new flag that had the image of two alicorns circling around the sun and moon on it to which is seen to this very day.

“The three leaders agreed to share the beautiful land, and live in harmony ever afterwards. And together, they named their new land...” Spike narrated as everyone else finished together.

“Equestria!”

The audience cheered as they were all awe-inspired seeing the wonderful tale of Equestria’s history as the curtains closed for a minute before opening them back open so the cast can take a bow together before singing a song together.

“The fire of friendship lives in our hearts

As long as it burns, we cannot drift apart

Though quarrels arise, their numbers are few

Laughter and singing will see us through (will see us through)

We are a circle of pony friends

A circle of friends we'll be to the very end.”

The audience all gave the cast another thunderous applause as they congratulate them for putting on a marvelous performance together.

After the play, everyone all got out of the costumes and they all voiced and complimented each other for a job well done.

“That was Un-Bunga-veilable!” Bunga expressed excitedly.

“I know.” Ono expressed relief with a smile. “I’m just glad I managed to make it through the whole performance without having a heart attack.”

“We should be so honored that Princess Celestia chose us! She must really think we exemplify what good friends are!” Twilight happily expressed.

“We sure do!” Kion agreed as she placed a paw around Twilight’s back just as Pinkie does the same towards Rarity.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Kyoga voiced as she prepares to get whatever she has up her chest out. “And I’m sorry I snapped at all of you earlier.”

“It’s all right.” Rainbow accepted on behalf of everyone. “We definitely needed to hear that considering we were about to go on stage.”

“And don’t forget...” Bunga added. “Hakuna Matata!”

Kyoga smiled as they all felt a breeze from inside courtesy of some open windows nearby.

“Applejack, I thought you closed all the windows.” Rarity questioned the cowgirl.

“Don't blame me.” Applejack fired back as she got in the girl’s face. “Rainbow Dash should've flown up there and shut it. After all, she's got wings.”

“Why do I always have to do all the high up chores?” Rainbow complained as she turned to the egret and unicorn. “Why can't Twilight use her magic for a change! Or heck why not Ono fly over there and close them.

As they all started arguing again as Kyoga just shook her head while walking over to the windows to do so just as they hear the roars of a windigo from outside to which immediately shut them all up as Kyoga shut the windows closed while slightly smiling and looking on amused as they all got embarrassed with what they had just said and did.

“Some things never change.” Kyoga said to them finding this funny as they all laugh together.

“But we’re still friends right?” Bunga asked everyone.

“The best.” Kion replied as they all remember that even with their differences and ups and downs they are still the best friends anybody could ask for and that’s all part of the holiday spirit while Kyoga looks on hopeful that things will get better going forward into the new year...

…All while it’s all being watched secretly by Scar from the shadows in the ceiling undetected from making using his magic to open the windows twice so he can a get a better feel of how to drive a wedge in their friendship along with locking eyes on the lioness who he secretly made the sarcastic remark in her head before quietly teleporting away undetected.

Author's Note

In this episode we have the Lion and Pony Guard getting together in Canterlot for a big play Princess Celestia has asked them to perform.

So to try to fit the Lion Guard into this play, I decided to have them cast as the other ponies. Ono with Rainbow and Fluttershy as Pegasus ponies, Kion, Bunga, and Beshte with Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and the earth ponies, and Fuli and Kyoga with Twilight and Rarity, and the unicorns.

Before and after the play the Guard did squabble a little but thankfully they were able to resolve quickly but not unnoticed by Scar watching over their shoulders the entire time.

Next up is "Beware of Zimwi" where the Guard deals with strange noises and sounds going on a peaceful night in the Pride Lands.

Episode 20: Beware of Zimwi

Episode 20:

Beware of the Zimwi

It was late at night and full moon shone in the sky as the Pony Guard, Lion Guard, their young admirers, and a pair of little porcupines sat around the base of Rafiki's Tree, listening to a spooky tale of a terrifying creature.

"And then, out of the darkness came a bone-chilling noise." Rafiki spoke, his tone eerie as he grinned down at the young animals.

Cheka, who was sitting in front of Kion, gulped, "What was it?" she asked, her ears falling flat against her head.

Rafiki leaned against his staff, "Are young ones like you ready?" he questioned. "It is a story that will make your fur stand up straight."

"Oh, we are, we are!" Kwato answered, nodding his head.

"Tell us the story, Rafiki." Mtoto begged.

"Yeah Rafiki, please?" Gumba pleaded.

"Yeah!" Kambuni and Cheka added with wide grins.

"We wanna hear it!" Shauku followed.

"We all want to hear the story, Rafiki." Kion agreed, sitting behind the younger mongoose.

"Very well." the old mandrill nodded. "Where was I? Ah, yes." he cleared his throat. "They heard a bone-chilling noise...the call of the Zimwi."

Kambuni gulped, "What's a Zimwi?" she questioned, blinking her big, green eyes.

"The Zimwi is a terrifying beast!" Rafiki exclaimed, eliciting a loud, collective shriek out of the younger Guard admirers, who all immediately curled against the respective member they idolized. "But it only comes into the Pride Lands on the night of the full moon."

Bunga looked up at the sky, "Hey, tonight's a full moon." he pointed out, making the younger animals gasp.

A cloud rolled by, revealing the full moon, it's light shining down on the group. "So it is." Rafiki noted, caressing his white beard and facing the group of animals. "Then, it is on a night like tonight that you might hear the Zimwi's call."

Suddenly, a loud bellow echoed in the distance, making everyone gasp and look in every direction. "What was that?" Gumba asked, his voice shaking as he gripped onto Bunga's arm.

Kwato gulped, "Was that..."

"The Zimwi?" Kambuni squeaked.

The bellowing grew louder, meaning it was getting closer. Twilight and Kion got up and faced the bushes where the sounds were coming from, with Twilight have her magic ready as her horn flared it's violet-red aura,

"Whoever you are, come out and show yourself!" Kion growled, taking a step forward.

Another bellow was heard, and Shauku hid behind the lion's hind leg.

"You heard me!" Twilight yelled. "Come out!"

"Kion? Twilight?" Beshte questioned, poking his head out of the bushes. "Uh, hey, everybody." the Guard's strongest chuckled dryly, seeing more animals than just his friends.

"I thought I recognized that bellow." Bunga chuckled, folding his arms across his chest, while Gumba did the same.

"But why are you bellowing so late?" Rainbow asked, landing beside Kion.

"I need to practice." Beshte answered. "Tomorrow I'll be bellowing for the Bellow Fellows."

Fuli quirked her brow. "Bellow Fellows?" she repeated.

“What are they?” Fluttershy added.

"That sounds...nice." Ono stammered, with Kambuni sitting beside him.

"It's poa!" Beshte exclaimed, joining the group in front of Rafiki's Tree. "If they like me, I'll get to bellow all the time with them! It's gonna be so much fun!" the hippo grinned. "But, uh, I'm kinda nervous to bellow in front of 'em." his ears fell to the sides out of slight embarrassment.

Rafiki leaned against his staff, "Yes. I suppose this is much more interesting than the Zimwi." the old mandrill rolled his eyes, and went to climb his tree.

"Wait, Rafiki!" Gumba halted. "Don't go!"

"We wanna hear about the Zimwi!" Mtoto added, now standing next to Beshte.

Rafiki swiftly turned around. "Is that so?" he questioned. "And you are sure you're not too frightened?"

Cheka shook her head and scurried forward, "I'm not scared."

"Me neither." echoed Shauku, who sat next to Cheka.

"Please, tell us Rafiki!" Kambuni squeaked.

"Yeah!" agreed Kwato.

"Very well!" Rafiki laughed before he broke into a song about the Zimwi.

Beware of the Zimwi

The young animals gasped while the Lion Guard's fiercest let out a chuckle, "Relax. It's just a story." he reminded, sharing a look with his best friend, who simply rolled her eyes and tapped her tail on the grass.

"It is just a story, right, Rafiki?" Fuli asked, with a dry laugh.

"Who is to say?" the Mjuzi shrugged. "Now, off to bed you go!" he shooed away the younger animals, knowing it was past their bedtimes.

"Thanks for the story, Rafiki!" the smaller Guard said in unison, tipping their heads to the old mandrill.

Rafiki leaned against his tree as he watched the Lion Guard say their good-nights to their young admirers.

"The Zimwi can't be real, uh, can it?" Mtoto asked with a gulp.

"Eight legs? Each one bigger than the last?" Kion questioned. "Does that sound real, guys?" he looked to the rest of his team.

“Absolutely not.” Twilight immediately said.

“No way.” Applejack and Rainbow stated in agreement.

“Perish the thought.” Rarity added.

“Noperoony!” Pinkie Pie smiled.

“No….” Fluttershy whispered rather frightened herself.

"No way." Ono shook his head, perching on Besthe’s back.

"Nope." agreed Beshte.

"Just a story." Fuli repeated.

"I hope so." Kwato gulped, his ears falling to the sides.

"That's too bad." Bunga shrugged his shoulders. "I'd kinda like to meet the Zimwi." A breeze blew past them, creating an ominous sound as it wove through the Acacia trees nearby.

"Oh, no." Cheka gasped, her and Kambuni huddling together.

"Huh?" Shauku and Gumba jumped on Kwato's back as they scanned the area.

Fuli, Beshte, and Ono all let out a shriek, while Bunga grinned as he yelled, "Zimwi?"

"Bunga, it's only the wind." Twilight rebuked.

"Are you sure?" Kwato gulped.

"If you guys are that worried, maybe you should all stay together tonight." Kion advised, smiling at the younger animals. "You'll feel safer."

They all exchanged a glance and nodded in agreement, saying their good-nights to the Guard and walking off.

"Maybe we can do that, too." Beshte voted. "It sounds like fun!"

"Yeah." Bunga agreed. "We can all spend the night at Hakuna Matata Falls." he suggested. "I'm sure my uncles won't mind."

Kion shrugged his shoulders, "Sure."

"Fine by me." Ono nodded.

"I'm in." Fuli grinned.

“Sure.” Twilight smiled and the girls agreed.

An owl hooted in the distance as the Guard slept soundly near the lake of Hakuna Matata Falls.

A twig snapping caused both cubs to pull back and look in the direction leading into the falls. The next instant, six young animals came running up to them, screaming "Zimwi!" Each young animal ran to the Guard member they looked up to, startling the rest that were still asleep.

"Easy Cheka, what's the matter?" Kion asked as he lightly ran his paw over the shivering cape fox.

"It's the Zimwi." she squeaked. "It's in the Pride Lands."

"We just saw it." Shauku added, latching on to Kion's left foreleg.

"The Zimwi?" the two cubs repeated.

"Impossible." Rainbow yawned, which was followed by a startled gasp as Kwato jumped over her to hide behind her.

"No, it's really true." Mtoto rebuffed, standing close to Beshte.

"The Zimwi doesn't exist. It's just a story." Twilight reminded, looking to each of the younger animals.

"You really saw it?" Bunga asked Gumba, who as currently latched onto his neck.

The baboon nodded, "In the woodlands." he answered. "It was as tall as two giraffes!"

"Just like Rafiki said." Kambuni shrieked, cowering in Ono's nest.

"And its teeth were sharper than a crocodile's!" Kwato gulped, ducking behind the Guard's fastest.

Kion rolled his eyes, "For the last time, there's no such thing as a Zimwi." he repeated.

A scratching noise in the distance made everyone jump. "I'm scared!" Mtoto screamed, huddling closer to Beshte. Kwato and Gumba did the same to Fuli and Bunga.

"What if it eats all of us?" Kambuni shrieked, hiding behind Ono. Shauku and Cheka clung tighter to the two lion cubs.

"Maybe it is real." Ono gulped.

The scratching continued, which ended up being caused by Timon raking a sharp stick down the side of the rocks.

"Now that I have your attention." the meerkat cleared his throat he and his warthog best friend approached the group of animals. "Let an expert tell you all about the Zimwi."

"You know about the Zimwi, Uncle Timon?" Bunga questioned, still holding on to a shaking Gumba.

"Know about it?" Pumbaa repeated. "Timon's the only animal in the Pride Lands to survive an encounter with..."

"The Zimwi!" both males said in unison.

"So, it's not just a story!" Ono confirmed.

"You've both seen the Zimwi?" Kion asked, not really believing the pair.

“For real?” Twilight added with a raised eyebrow also not buying it.

"Oh, Timon has!" Pumbaa answered. "Right, Timon?"

"You better believe it!" Timon chuckled. "More or less."

The meerkat chuckled dryly. "Well, not exactly me." he clarified. "See, my Ma's cousin's friend knows an ox who told him he ran into the Zimwi and..." Timon paused for dramatic effect. "...it ate him!"

"Oh, the horror!" the warthog sobbed.

The six young animals gasped in horror.

Twilight just blinked still not convinced, "If the ox got eaten, how did he tell anyone else the story?" she asked with a raised brow.

"Uh, you'd have to ask the ox." Timon answered the young unicorn, tapping her purple nose. "The point is, nothing can stop the Zimwi!"

"What are we gonna do?" Gumba asked, looking at Bunga.

"Nothing you can do, kids." Timon answered.

"Maybe there's nothing he can do..." Kion rebuked, glancing to Timon before looking back at the six young animals, who were now huddled together. "...but we're the Pony and Lion Guard. We'll find whatever you saw." the prince promised. "And if it really is the Zimwi, we'll run it out of the Pride Lands!"

"Yeah!" Bunga agreed. "Or get eaten trying!"

The six kids gasped. "Oh! Why does our little Bunga have to be so brave?" Pumbaa cried out.

Kion rolled his eyes. "Let's go." he ordered, looking to the rest of the Lion Guard. "Till Equestria and the Pride Lands end...

"...Pony and Lion Guard defend!" the other five finished, following Kion out of the falls.

As the Guard patrolled the woodlands, which is where their young friends said they first saw the Zimwi, all appeared to be quiet, except for Bunga who kept calling out, "Here, Zimwi, Zimwi, Zimwi."

The Guard's leader rolled his eyes and chuckled, "Come on, Bunga. You really think there's a creature out here that's as tall as two giraffes with big spikes, and teeth sharper than a crocodile?"

"Yeah!" agreed the Guard's bravest. "Don't forget the eight legs." he added. "You believe it too, don't ya, Big B?"

"I don't know, Bunga. I've never seen anything like that." the Guard's strongest admitted. "But there's probably lots of things I've never seen."

"I see a lot more than you guys do." added the Guard's keenest of sight. "And I still haven't seen everything. So, who knows?"

"Still, isn't it possible?" questioned the Guard's fastest, who glanced to the lioness to the right of their leader.

"No." the Guard's wisest answered flatly. "We'll find whatever it is the little ones saw, and then you'll see it's not a Zimwi."

“Something like sounds more like a creature from Equestria rather than the Pridelands.” Twilight smirked. “You should see a hydra. Four necks, four heads and about 20 feet tall.”

“Woah…” Kion and his friends gasped.

“Yep and something like that existing here is far fetched.” Twilight added. “It’s just everyone's imagination taking hold.”

The Guard came across the forest, which appeared creepy in the darkness. Three shadows ran past a few trees, letting out a chittering noise.

"Come on!" Bunga urged. "We can't let this thing get away."

"Actually, would that be so bad?" Ono gulped. The Guard ran towards the forest's entrance and stopped, the chittering noise growing louder. One of the shadowed figures ran right between Ono's feet, spooking him.

"Hapana!" he yelled. But what came out were three little genets.

"Oh, excuse us." a female genet pardoned, her and two males poking their heads out from the tall grass. "Did we scare you?"

"Me? Why, uh, no." Ono stammered, looking away from the animal trio.

"Hey, little genets." Beshte greeted. "Where are you guys off to?"

"Just heading home." one of the male genets answered.

"Good thinkin'." Bunga praised. "Get home before the Zimwi gets ya."

The three genets exchanged a confused glance. "Zimwi?" the younger male repeated. "What's a Zimwi?" the female asked.

Bunga gaped, "You've never heard of the Zimwi? It's..."

"Nothing." Kion cut him off.

Bunga popped back up not knowing when to stop, "Pfft, yeah." scoffed the honey badger as he continued. "If something as tall as two giraffes is nothing." The three genetes let out low frightened whimpers. "If nothing has teeth bigger than a crocodile's. Then yeah, sure, the Zimwi's nothing." Bunga continued, despite protests from his friends, and the frightened whimpers of the genets

"Bunga, enough!" Kion warned him to stop but he still wouldn't listen.

"Speaking of enough..." Bunga went on. "...you'd think four legs is enough, but not for the Zimwi! He's got eight!"

The genets let out loud whimpers, their ears falling flat against their heads. "Don't worry." Kion assured, knocking Bunga back with his paw. "We're not even sure the Zimwi's real."

"Yeah." Bunga scoffed, shoving past the lion so he could look the genets in the eyes. "For all we know it could be some other eight-legged, super tall, sharp-toothed thing stalking through the Pride Lands tonight."

The female genet took a backwards step, her ears still flat against her head. "We really have to get back home." she informed, her body visibly shaking.

"Good idea! The Lion Guard's on duty!" the honey badger said with pride. "So, go on home and get a good night's sleep."

"I don't see that happening." the youngest genet gulped. "Let's go!" urged the female as they ran into the tall grass.

"Wait!" the Guard's bravest halted, getting the genets to look back at him. "If you do see the Zimwi, try to keep it where it is till we get there, okay?" he asked. "Then leave the rest to us." The genets ducked back into the grass without an answer.

"Think they'll do it?" Bunga asked as he turned back to the rest of the Guard.

"I doubt it." Ono dryly answered.

"Bunga, why did you scare them like that?" Fuli hissed as she scolded him.

"Yeah, Little B." Beshte added finding it completely unneccesary. "You really got 'em on the run."

“Yeah, you scared them really badly.” Rainbow also scolded.

Bunga shrugged his shoulders still not understanding what he did was wrong, "I was tryin' to make 'em feel safe." he defended.

“You made them feel anything other than safe sugarcube.” Applejack rolled her eyes in annoyance.

"And they hadn't even heard of the Zimwi til you told them about it." Twilight sternly informed.

"How was I supposed to know?" Bunga asked, scratching the back of his head.

The lion prince sighed heavily. "Okay, Bunga, but the next animal we run into, try not to mention the Zimwi." he warned with a small grin. The honey badger nodded in agreement.

The Guard entered the forest, carefully scanning their surroundings for any signs of the mysterious 'Zimwi'. "I have to admit, hearing Bunga describe the Zimwi has me a little on edge, too." Ono admitted.

"It's just a story Ono." Kion assured. "The Zimwi isn't real."

"Yeah, I mean just listen." Applejack agreed. "Everything's peaceful and quiet."

Ono swallowed the lump in his throat. "A little too quiet." he muttered.

A branch snapped further into the woods, followed by the sound of a loud whinny and approaching hoofsteps. "I take it back." the egret recanted, digging his talons into Kion's fur. "Quiet's fine! Quiet's fine!"

"Easy Ono." Kion winched. Then out of the bushes came Kyoga, “Oh hey you guys.”

“Kyoga? What are you doing out here at night?” Kion asked the lioness cub.

“Just tracking something…” Kyoga muttered.

“Tracking what?”Besthe asked.

“The Zimwi?” Bunga inquired with excitement.

“Pfft. A mythical creature. No way! That doesn’t exist.” Kyoga retorted.

“Thank you!” Kion and Twilight exclaimed happily.

“I’m tracking something familiar…” Kyoga said. “I know this scent from before but I can’t quite place it…”

“Well maybe we can help you find it while we’re on patrol.” Kion offered. Kyoga sighed, “If I just say ‘No’ you’re still gonna insist on going with me, so I guess I have no choice..”

“......Okay…..” Twilight smiled half-heartedly.

The twelve friends and Kyoga continued through the forest, which grew eerily quiet. When an owl hooted, seemingly out of nowhere, four of the Guard member's gasped.

"Just an owl, guys." Kion sighed with a roll of her eyes.

"Is it?" Bunga questioned. "Or is it the Zimwi, laughing right before it eats some unsuspecting animal?"

Kion rolled his eyes, "Bunga."

A distant bellowing startled everyone. "Hapana!" Ono cried.

"Zimwi!" Bunga hoped, a wide grin on his face.

Beshte stepped out of a patch of grass, "Sorry." he apologized. "I was practicing my bellows. You know, for the Bellow Fellows?"

Twilight shook her head, "See? Just Beshte." she pointed out. "No Zimwi."

The Guard's strongest brought up the rear of the group and continued to practice his bellows. "I'm not sure which is spookier, Beshte or The Zimwi." Ono chuckled.

After patrolling through the forest, the Guard came across a canyon. Bunga let out a heavy sigh, "Still no sign of the Zimwi." he groaned.

"Or whatever it is." Fuli added with a dry chuckle and swish of her tail.

On instinct, Applejack glanced over her shoulder and saw two animals encased in shadows. "Huh?"

"Applejack?" Kion questioned, looking back at her.

"Hmmm.. anypony else feel.."

"Really scared?" Ono quickly finished. "Not me." he shook his head.

"No." Applejack rebuked. "Like we're being watched."

"By the Zimwi?" Bunga hoped, grinning.

Ono gulped, "Usually I do the watching." he hesitantly looked around.

“W-What is it..?” Fluttershy shivered in fear.

"Who'd watch us?" Beshte asked.

"And from where?" Fuli added, looking around.

Twilight pointed back to where she saw the shadowy figures. There were two sets of glowing eyes. "Ooh." Bunga's grin got wider. "How many eyes does the Zimwi have?"

"Too many." Fuli shuddered.

"All right, team, let's move in." Kion ordered, "Ono and Rainbow, keep an eye out overhead."

"Uh, affirmative." the egret agreed, his voice shaky, as he and Rainbow took off into the sky.

Kion and Fuli stalked forward, keeping themselves low to the ground with the girls, Bunga and Beshte behind them.

A branch cracked under Kion's paws, halting the Guard for only a second, before they moved in and surrounded the animal hiding in the bushes. Kion looked to his right and saw Twilight, the girls and Fuli ready to pounce, and down his left saw Bunga and Beshte ready too.

"Now!" the Guard's fiercest ordered.

"We got you, Zimwi!" Bunga yelled, as five gazelles leaped out of the bushes. "The Zimwi can fly?"

"Don't hurt us." begged one of the gazelles.

"Please!" spoke the male at the front. "We were just hiding."

Fuli raised her brow as she glanced at Kion and Twilight, "So this is what we've been chasing?" she blinked her emerald colored eyes.

"What were you hiding from?" Kion asked.

"What else?" gulped the male gazelle. "The Zimwi!" all five shouted.

“Ugh… this nonsense again?” Kyoga groaned.

"Listen. I don't think the Zimwi's really real." Twilight assured in a calm voice. “It’s just your imagination.”

"But we saw it, right before we jumped into the bushes." the male gazelle defended. "It had giant teeth! On the outside of its head!"

"Hapana!" gulped Ono, who was perched on a tree branch above the rest of the Guard. "We've heard those teeth are as sharp as a crocodile's."

"We heard it can fly." a female gazelle whined.

Bunga perked up, "You heard that, too?"

"They heard it from you!" Kion scolded, his eyes narrowed down at the badger. "Relax." Kion breathed, facing the gazelles. "The Zimwi's just a story."

"Oh, yeah?" challenged another female gazelle. "So, what's that?" Everyone looked down the canyon and saw the shadow of what appeared to be the Zimwi, just as Rafiki described it.

“What in Equestria?” Twilight breathed trying to make sense of what she is seeing.

"Maybe this thing really is as tall as two giraffes." Fuli wondered.

"Those sure look like big teeth." Beshte noted, hunching low.

"Pretty sharp too." Fuli added, her ears flat against her head.

"Anyone else see two heads?" Bunga questioned.

Kion took a couple steps forward. "Uh, maybe?" he agreed with the badger, as the creature's shadow disappeared from view. "Whatever it is, it's on the move."

A low rumble of thunder echoed as the Guard stood at the entrance to the canyon. "I hope that's you practicing again, Beshte." Ono shuddered.

The hippo shook his head. "I don't think so." he rebuked.

"Come on, Lion Guard." the fierce leader ordered. "Let's go." He took a step forward and led the group into the canyon. "This canyon's a dead end so it's got nowhere to run."

"And that's a good thing?" Ono asked, flying above the rest.

More thunder clasped overhead, adding more to the ominous feel of everything. Dark clouds rolled in, covering up the moon, leaving no visible light. The Guard and Kyoga came to the canyon's end, just as two bolts of lightning struck, illuminating the creature before them.

"Zimwi!" the Guard shouted.

"I knew it." Bunga grinned, taking a step forward while the rest of the Guard spun around and ran away.

"All right, Zimwi, it's just you and me." the honey badger challenged. However, Besthe came and got him, "Let's go Little B!"

Kyoga, however, stayed behind and sniffed the ground. The scent she had been smelling before was coming from the so called ‘Zimwi’.

“Hmm….Hello..?" she called. “Whose there?”

The figure moved and leaped down into the shadows before it said... "Kyoga...sister?" "Is that you, Kyoga?"

“How do you know my name?” Kyoga asked with her heart fluttering at the sounds of the two familiar voices. Kyoga watched as the figure came into the moonlight... revealing two teenage lions!

The first one was a teenage female lioness who is purple-grey with green eyes and grey underbelly, paws, and muzzle. She has blue swirls underneath her eyes along with her tufted, pointy ears. This lioness had two canines that showed from her mouth that looked to be as long as a sabertooth tigers, 11 inches! Giving her an intimidating look at first glance, along with a pair of wings that had yellow shading on the edges.

The second one was a teenage male lion who is fur looked similar in color to Nala's but he had a golden mane that shaded into black near the edges that reached down towards his chest. He has a darker shaded orange tip on his tail, as well as having a paler muzzle, eyelids, paws, and belly along with his brown eyes. This male lion also had a pair of wings that were the same shade as his body but they had white shading on the edges.

Kyoga’s eyes widened in shock and awe at the two lions in front of her.

Meanwhile, Kion, Twilight and the Guard came bursting out of the canyon screaming in terror, scaring the gazelle herd as they scattered away from the Guard, luckily the guard gave them a clearing by flattening some bushes and they ran out into the savannah.

“They should wear themselves out in a little bit.” Kion said

“Gazelles, right? One little scare and before you know it, they're just jumping all over the place.” Rainbow scoffed.

“Because we scared them.” Kion sighed. “While we were running away.”

“Sorry, Kion.” Twilight said, lowering her ears.

“Nothing to be sorry about. I ran away, too.” Kion said sadly.

“And you said the Zimwi wasn't real!” Bunga bragged making Kion sigh again, ”I know. All this time, I wasn't afraid of the Zimwi because I thought it wasn't real. But as soon as I thought it was, I ran away.”

“Um…. where’s Kyoga?” Fluttershy peeped and the Guard noticed that they were one lion cub short!

“Oh no! She must still be in their with the Zimwi!” Besthe said with worry.

“Oh horseapples!” Applejack winced.

“Come on then, let’s go save her!” Rainbow exclaimed before she bolted back into the canyon with the rest of the Guard following her. When they came to the clearing in the canyon they saw Kyoga…. And two lions..?

“Huh? What’s with the lions?” Pinkie Pie asked before Twilight hushed her hearing something.

Kyoga, oblivious to the Guards presence just stared for a moment at the two lions in front of her and the two lions stared back. “K-Karabi…..L-Lite….. Is… it really you….?” Kyoga breathed with her heart beating fast.

Karabi and Lite slowly smiled at Kyoga with tears in their eyes, “K-Kyoga…. It is you….!” Karabi sobbed before the three of them ran towards each other and nuzzled each other deeply, showing their friendship with each other much to the Guards’ shock.

“So… we ran away from two lions?!” Fuli complained.

“Kyoga said ‘Karabi’ and ‘Lite’..... So…. you think those two could be… her friends….?” Ono inquired.

“From the way she’s nuzzling them, I’d say yes.” Twilight smiled.

Kyoga, Karabi and Lite separated. “W-We’ve been searching for you ever since he came and destroyed everything. W-We thought you were dead…” Lite cried.

“I-I didn’t know what happened to you…. After you told me to run away…” Kyoga smiled, wiping her face. “I-I thought you didn’t make it…”

“I-I’m just glad to see your alright… but your leg and eye…” Karabi cooed, touching Kyoga’s disabled leg and scarred eye.

“I’m alright. They don’t hurt as much anymore..” Kyoga smiled. Karabi and Lite smiled

“So wait...these two lions are the Zimwi?" Bunga asked, catching Karabi and Lite’s attention. The two teenage lions growled at the Guard, extending their claws before they came in front of Kyoga.

“Woah woah woah, we’re not enemies here!” Kion quickly tried to reason.

“Yeah right, lion…” Karabi snarled before she lunged at the young cub, but Twilight blasted her with her magic, sending her skidding back.

“Huwezi!” Fuli exclaimed as she and Rainbow bolted towards Lite, ready to attack but Lite lunged forth and knocked Rainbow out of the sky and sent her crashing into Fuli.

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed.

Twilight growled and blasted her magic at Karabi once more but Karabi’s eyes glowed white and a white shield appeared in front and she deflected the beam!”

“What? She does magic too?!” Twilight exclaimed in shock. She never guessed that a lion could even use magic!

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion added.

“Stop, why are you attacking us, we won’t hurt you!” Bunga exclaimed.

“But you will harm Kyoga and we both vowed to protect her after he destroyed everything we loved.” Karabi snarled.

“Destroyed everything you love?” Kion echoed, pausing the battle. “What do you mean?”

“We do not wish to discuss this with you, lion.” Lite snarled. “For all we know you could be part of Eclipse Pride….”

“What? No way! I’ve never heard of the Eclipse Pride.” Kion defended. “And I would never harm Kyoga. Neither of us would.”

“It’s the truth you two…. I’ve been hanging around these knuckleheads for a while.” Kyoga admitted. “They’re cool so you can stop…”

“Hmmm…. Fine… only for you, Kyoga.” Karabi said and she and Lite calmed down and retracted their claws.

“So you’re Karabi and Lite?” Twilight asked, earning nods from the two. “Well, I’m Twilight Sparkle and these are my friends; Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Kion, Ono, Besthe, Bunga and Fuli.”

“So… how exactly do you know Kyoga?” Kion questioned.

“They’re my…. Bestest friends… some may even say… they’re my sister and brother with the way they care for me…” Kyoga explained.

“So….. you did have friends…!” Bunga exclaimed in realization. “Then why are you such a buzzkill now?” That earned him a hard smack by Applejack,

“Quiet sugarcube, just be glad that she found her kin.” She scolded.

“Yeah, Applejack’s right Bunga.” Kion also scolded. “How they got here is not important now all that matter now is that Kyoga has her friends back…”

“So….. can they please stay….?” Kyoga asked Kion and Twilight who smiled at each other.

“Let’s go see my Mom and Dad.”

“And Princess Celestia.”

Kion and Twilight each said and smiled.

At Pride Rock, Karabi and Lite were before Celestia, Luna, Simba and Nala.

“Princess, Karabi and Lite came to the Pridelands searching for Kyoga after a terrible incident.”

“And they mean a lot and they wish to stay with Kyoga, if they have your blessing.”

Twilight and Kion asked of the four royal rulers.

Celestia, Luna, Simba and Nala replied immediately.

“Of course my faithful student.”

"Of course they can stay here. This family had been torn apart for long enough." Celestia and Simba accepted.

"They can stay in the Pridelands and Equestria for as long as they like." Nala added.

"And you both have our blessing." Luna also added assuringly.

“Thank you.” Karabi and Lite bowed to their majesties as Kyoga nuzzled the two of them and they smiled placing their heads on her, showing their deep friendship with each other. Kion, Twilight and the Guard smiled at the three of them. Now Kyoga has part of her past back and this time…. they were here to stay.

Author's Note

It is a spooky night here in the Pride Lands, as rumors of a mysterious Zimwi creature lurking around is sending chills up everyone's spines (well of course not the Only Sane members of the Guard) and not helped by Bunga carelessly further spooking them out of their wits.

And true to the core, there was no Zimwi, but instead two lions of Kyoga's long lost family, Karabi and Lite. Who have both managed to come all the way out here to finally reunite with their sister and upon Simba, Nala, Celestia, and Luna's blessings.

Another interesting reveal is that Kyoga's sister Karabi is also capable of magic which will be explored later on in the series.

But in the meantime next up is "Lions of the Outlands." where a group of familiar antagonists take center stage in time for the midway point of Season 2 where there are some big surprises in store in this upcoming version of this episode and give credit to PikachuSkitty for putting this episode together for me.

Episode 21: Lions of the Outlands

Episode 21:

Lions of the Outlands

The Pride Lands' savanna was filled with the laughter of animals playing Baobab Ball today. Kion ran ahead of the group holding a baobab fruit in his mouth. He tossed it up and swatted at it with his paw, sending it through the air towards his teammate.

"It's all mine." giggled Rainbow as she jumped to catch the fruit.

"Not on your tail Rainbow!" Bunga laughed as he ran after her. Rainbow kicked up some dirt to temporarily blind the honey badger so she could make an escape. Bunga spit out some dirt that got in his mouth, "Not fair Rainbow!"

Rainbow simply giggled as she galloped across the grasslands, with Bunga and Kion on her tails. The female pegasus tossed the fruit in the air and hit it with her head back towards the lion cub.

"I got it!" Bunga called as he intercepted the baobab fruit and landed on the ground near a bush. “Hahah, got it!”

The honey badgers’ laughter was short lived with a panicked voice shouted, "Hyena in the Pride Lands!"

A group of about six gazelles now startled hearing this jumped over the nearby bushes, with their eyes wide in fear.

"Hyena in the Pride Lands?"Rainbow and Kion repeated.

"Hyena in the Pride Lands?" Bunga chorused the next moment. "Alright, hyena, you picked the wrong day to come into the Pride Lands" Bunga warned, smoothing out the fur on his arms,, ready to pounce on the hyena.

However, the hyena that jumped out of the bushes was a familiar, purple fur tinted, and friendly hyena.

"Hey, Bunga." Jasiri greeted with a giggle.

Bunga raised an eyebrow as if he has seen her before, "Wait, aren't you the hyena that helped Kion and Rainbow when they were trapped in the Outlands?" he questioned and recalled.

"Jasiri!" Kion and Rainbow happily greeted as they came up to her,

"What are you doing in the Pride Lands?" Kion asked.

"Looking for Kyoga." the female hyena answered, her ears falling to the sides as she has a serious matter up her paws. "I have a problem back home, and I need her help."

"Don't tell me it's Janja and his clan again." Kion rolled his eyes thinking it is going to be one of those days considering of what he along with the rest of the Guard have to put up with.

Jasiri shook her head to assure it's not that, "Actually, it's lions." she corrected.

"Lions?" Rainbow exchanged a confused look towards Kion.

"In the Outlands?" Kion shared the same confused glance back as they both have never heard of that before as Jasiri nodded in confirmation.

"They've taken over my family's watering hole...and they won't share it." She explained as she lowered her snout. “I need Kyoga’s help.”

“O-Okay, Rainbow? Can you go and find Kyoga?” Kion asked the pegasus and she saluted before she flew off to find Kyoga, which wasn’t that hard because she was relaxing underneath a shady tree.

“Kyoga!” She called down towards the lioness.

“Huh? Rainbow? What is it?” She asked.

“It’s Jasiri, she needs your help with some lions in the Outlands.” She informed her.

At Rainbow’s response, Kyoga’s ears folded back and her face turned serious, “I’m in…”

Rainbow nodded without further question and she led Kyoga back towards the others, “I found her.”

“Kyoga, thank goodness. I need your-” Jasiri started before Kyoga cut her off,

“Yeah… I know…let’s go…” Kyoga then walked off towards the Outlands without another word.

“Okay… something tells me Kyoga knows about these Lions in the Outlands…” Kion stated feeling there is something going on that she knows more than they do. “I better go tell my dad and Celestia to see if they know anything about it. Bunga, Rainbow, come with me.”

The pair nodded as Kion turned to their hyena friend, “Jasiri, you go with Kyoga.”

“Right Kion, of course.” Jasiri stated before she followed the disabled lioness.

As the pair walked through the Outlands, Jasiri spoke to Kyoga, "You know Kyoga, I was kinda worried you might not help me." Jasiri admitted as she led her through the Outlands towards her home.

"Why wouldn't I?" Kyoga asked wondering how could she say no to that, “I know they are lions but that doesn’t mean I’ll always side with them.”

"That is true." Jasiri chuckled as she led Kyoga to an enclosure in the canyon where her clanmates were resting. One hyena, another female, with grey-purple fur and a beige underbelly, dull purple stripes, dark purple legs, and brown eyes was mock growling at a pair of cubs. One cub had grey fur, indicating male, while the other had dark purple fur, indicating female. Both cubs squeaked back at the older female playing with them.

The playing stopped when the older female saw Jasiri returning.

"Jasiri, you're back." she grinned, walking up to her, “Kyoga, thank goodness.”

“Of course Madoa.” Kyoga smiled. “We’re all friends here.” The two cubs she was playing with yipped happily at the sight of Kyoga and nuzzled her good leg. “Hehe, hi little guys.”

“Looks like they remember you.” Madoa smiled. Kyoga nodded, “I’m here to help you with these lions…”

"I hope so." Madoa sighed, glancing at the cub. "Those little ones need the water."

"We all do." Jasiri followed.

"Then let's go." Kyoga voted. Jasiri led her to the watering hold her clan was using before it was taken over by the evil lions.

“Once we get to the watering hole, I'm sure we can work things..." Jasari began to say, but was cut off when another lion pounced on Jasiri.

"We told you to stay outta here, hyena!" a mangy-looking lion yelled, baring his teeth. His main pelt was brown, with a grey muzzle, underbelly, and paws, a scrawly black mane, along with a patch of black fur on his chin and elbows, and red eyes.

"Hey!" Kyoga growled, tackling the older lion, pinning him on his back. "Back off!"

“Wah-?! K-Kyoga! W-What are you doing here?!”

“I’m here because of you, Nuka….” Kyoga snarled threateningly back.

"Nuka!" called the voice of another cub, who was about Shaba's size, only he had dark brown fur and a darker brown mane tuft, with green eyes. "Hey, Nuka."

"Kovu!" The mangy lion known as Nuka addressed the cub. "Tell her to let me up." he looked from the dark colored cub to the golden one still pinning him.

“Hey Kovu.” Kyoga greeted.

“Hey Kyoga.” Kovu replied back. “My brother pounced first again, didn’t he?”

“Yes, on my hyena friend.” Kyoga growled as she let Nuka up.

"It should be three against one!" Nuka pointed out with a scoff. "What kind of lion are you? Siding with a hyena." he rolled his red-brown eyes.

“I’m the lion who has common sense…” Kyoga snarled. “Now… where’s your mother…?” Nuka scoffed, “This way, Kyoga…”

The watering hole soon came into view. A lioness with gray-tan fur, beige-cream muzzle, underbelly, and paws, red eyes, a notched right ear and a dark tan stripe down her head stood at the shore, taking a drink.

"Mother!" Nuka's voice called, getting her attention. She looked up and saw her sons approaching, followed by Kyoga and Jasiri. "We have a visitor."

“It’s Kyoga.” Kovu informed, running ahead.

"Kyoga? Long time no see….” the lioness gasped in delight at seeing this special guest of her's. "Well, what an honor." She bowed her head before walking up to them.

“Thought I saw the last of you and your family, Zira…” Kyoga growled, staring at her and her daughter, Vitani, a smaller lioness, who looked alot like her mother, only her fur was more of a dusty-peach hue and a tuft fell over the tops of her bright violet eyes.

“Hmph, so what brings you back here?” Vitani questioned.

“I’m here because you’ve taken over my friends’ watering hole and you need to give it back.” Kyoga demanded and Zira chuckled,

“Still serious as always. Why don’t we…. Catch up…. Like old times…?”

Kyoga frowned, “Hmph…. If that’s what you want.”

"Children, I'll be back soon." Zira assured, turning around and starting up the trail. Nuka glared in Jasiri's direction and growled. "Play nice, Nuka!" Zira called after him.

Jasiri snapped at the older male, who yelped and leaped behind his two younger siblings. "That's right, Nuka." the female hyena chuckled. "Let's play nice."

Zira led Kyoga up the winding trail, "Kyoga, lioness of the Meadow Pride. So glad you could come back." she admitted, her voice soft and sweet, which made Kyoga’s fur stand on end.

The lioness cub rolled her eyes, "Yeah Yeah, no need to keep pointing it out, Zira." Her eyes remained in a narrowed glare as she looked at the older female.

"Sweetie, why’s with the attitude? It doesn't matter where we live. Whether we live in the Outlands or Pride Lands, we're all lions." she replied sweetly. "And that's what's most important." and then she broke into a song.

Lions Over All

"Zira, you know how I think lions should act.” Kyoga stated.

"And that's why we're here." Zira reminded, leading the cub out of the cave. "To talk." Just beyond the cave was the entrance to the den where Zira and her pride lived. Kyoga looked up at the formation, which resembled the head of an animal with stalagmites resembling teeth. "It may not be Pride Rock, but we call it home. This way." she led her inside.

Meanwhile, at Pride Rock....

Celestia, Rafiki, Simba, Nala, Karabi and Lite along with the Guard were all relaxing at Pride Rock when Kion, Bunga and Rainbow came, “Dad, Princess Celestia, I need to ask you two something.” Kion asked.

“What is it Kion?” Simba asked.

“Jasiri, the good hyena, came into the Pridelands, looking for Kyoga." Kion explained. "She said there’s a pride of lions living in the Outlands that took over her family's’ watering hole. Do you know anything about that?” Kion then asked.

Simba’s face turned horrified along with Nala’s while Karabi and Lite’s faces turned into snarls.

"They are the Outsiders." Rafiki answered grimly.

"Who now?" the Guard's bravest blinked in confusion feeling lost here as much as everyone else minus the ones who expressed horror upon the mention.

Rafiki then led the Guard to the wall of the Lair that depicted painting of the Outsiders, and using his bakora staff, he made them come to life so he can explain it to them.

"The Outsiders are a group of lions led by a lioness named Zira." he informed. "Simba banished them from the Pride Lands before any of you were born."

The Lion Guard's fastest raised her brow, "Why would Simba banish other lions?" she asked.

"Because Zira and her family, they were loyal only to Scar." Rafiki answered, pointing to a painting depicting Zira standing at the edge of Pride Rock with Scar. "After Scar was gone, Simba became King." Rafiki tapped the painting of Simba standing on Pride Rock, making it come to life. "But Zira told Simba he could not rule the Pride Lands. Because Scar had chosen her son Kovu to be king." The next painting showed Zira with her youngest cub.

"But Scar was never the real King!" Rainbow exclaimed as she raised her fist.

"Correct, Rainbow. And that is what I told Zira, but she wouldn’t listen to reason so instead she tried to take me down. And of course I won, but after that I had no choice, I had to banish Zira and her family from the Pride Lands. Forever." Simba added as he explained.

“So why are you two so angry?” Twilight questioned Karabi and Lite for snarling upon the mention of the Outsiders.

“Because……. Scar and Zira are the ones who gave Kyoga, her scarring…” Karabi admitted and everyone gasped in horror.

“What?!”

“No way!”

“Jumpin’ Junebugs!” Rainbow, Pinkie and Applejack exclaimed.

“Yes…… Kyoga, Lite and I all used to live far beyond the Pridelands, in a large, lush valley, called the Diamond Valley. Kyoga was chosen by our mother and father to rule when the time comes for them to step down. Kyoga, Lite and I were all cubs playing happily with our parents…..Before Scar, Zira and their pride arrived. They all tried to force us to join their pride, saying that lions should basically rule everything with an iron claw and kill anyone who opposes. Our pride never agreed to them and so they attacked us viciously.

Scar went after Kyoga, giving her the scarring that has healed. Mom and Dad fought against Scar and Zira viciously….. There was… so much bloodshed from that day. Our pride drove them off…. But they killed everyone in our pride… even our parents.” Lite explained, shedding tears. “In mother’s final minutes, she made us promise to protect Kyoga at all costs…. Then… she was gone…”

Everyone was speechless!

They never knew Karabi, Lite and Kyoga went through such a thing.

“Oh my gosh….” Simba gasped.

“No wonder Kyoga’s so fixated on fighting others alone….” Bunga breathed still mind blown. “To prevent what happened to her family… from happening to anyone else.”

Lite nodded to say that the honey badger is correct as then further explained to everyone, “After she passed, we all became orphans. Karabi and I had to learn to hunt all by our selves to keep ourselves and Kyoga alive. When we reached our teenage years, we noticed Kyoga’s attitude had changed. She became more adamant about fighting and wanted to be alone more; acting the opposite of what she used to act like. That’s when we noticed a faint spark of black smoke coming from her heart.”

“Black smoke?” Twilight mused before she gasped as she realized at what said magic is, “Dark magic….!”

“What?!” Kion and the Lion Guard exclaimed.

“What’s dark magic?” Kion asked.

“It’s powerful magic that corrupts the user because of their lust for power and hatred. It stems from many negative emotions.” Princess Celestia explained.

“Kyoga’s infected heart, causes her to become…. Violent in some fights.” Karabi stated. “Her eyes glowed white and her voice booms out. She has learned to control her emotions, but…. We’re worried the dark magic will fester and we might lose her…”

“Woah…… that explains her attitude…” Rainbow said, now feeling bad and regretting giving Kyoga such a hard time.

Bunga scratched his head, "So the lions in the Outlands might be Zira and her family?" he guessed.

"Most definitely." Rafiki nodded.

"And if Kyoga has gone there alone, they’ll kill her so the lineage of our royal family will be no more.” Lite snarled.

"We have to get to Kyoga!" Ono squawked, flapping his wings.

"Right. Let's go!" Fuli voted, running towards the Lair's entrance.

"Till the Pride Lands and Equestria end...Lion Guard defend!" The Guard called as they raced off towards the Outlands with Karabi and Lite behind them.

"Okay, Zira. We're alone." Kyoga growled as the older lioness led them through the entrance to her pride's den.

“So….. what’s your plan now….?”

“Why Kyoga? Why would you ever suspect such a thing?” Zira asked in a mocking tone.

“Because, your husband and pride destroyed my family.” Kyoga growled.

“Except for you…. But that will change…” Zira snarled as her pride appeared behind her including her children!

“Mom, why can’t we just be friends with Kyoga?” Kovu asked, trying to reason with his mother.

“Because Kyoga and her family refused to join us.” Zira growled.

“Because you wanted to rule over everything with hatred and intimidation, that’s not how a ruler should ever act.” Kyoga stated.

“You sound just like your pathetic parents.” Zira snarled.

“Don’t call them pathetic!” Kyoga exclaimed in offensive to that remark and Zira’s lionesses snarled at her with their teeth baring threatening to attack her should she attack Zira.

“You know Scar and I would have been very pleased if you had joined us. With Scar being King of the Pridelands and all.” Zira smirked.

“Scar was never the real king!” Kyoga snarled.

"How dare you." Zira snarled back, raising her paw, flashing her onyx colored claws.

Kyoga lunged forward with a roar, dug her claws into Zira’s right shoulder, making her cry in pain. Another lioness bit Kyoga in her lower back and threw her into a boulder behind her. Kyoga grunted as she got up with all her claws extended. Kyoga lunged once more at the lioness and claws her, prompting five other lionesses to gang up on her!

Meanwhile in the sky, Ono and Rainbow saw Jasiri near the watering hole,

“Jasiri!” Ono called.

“Ono? Rainbow? What’s wrong?" She asked in worry. "Have you seen Kyoga? Kovu, Nuka and Vitani suddenly just walked off away from the watering hole.”

“So they can help kill Kyoga!” Kion exclaimed as everyone.

“Wait, what?!” Jasiri exclaimed in shock hearing this wondering why as the Guard all ran off ahead with time at the essence here.

“No time to explain, let’s go!” Rainbow stated before zipping off with the others behind her.

Ono and Rainbow saw Kyoga trying and failing to fight back against five of Zira’s lionesses.

“Oh no! Zira’s lionesses are ganging up on Kyoga! They’re gonna kill her!”

“Not if we have anything to say about!” Karabi yelled as she and Lite charged forth to Zira’s den, followed by the others.

“Sis!”

“Kyoga!”

Karabi and Lite came charging in and lunged at the five lionesses harming their sister/best friend. Kyoga staggered to her feet, her legs feeling numb with some blood loss and she was covered with scratched and puncture marks all over her body.

Vitani snarled while Kovu went to hide from the fighting. Fuli tackled Vitani to the ground while Ono and Rainbow flew in and Ono pecked at Nuka on the head. Jasiri nipped at the other lionesses heels while Besthe rammed the rest of the pride away.

Karabi and Lite bashed the five lionesses away before them and everyone stood in front of Kyoga to protect her.

“Karabi and Lite….. I thought you’d died by now..” Zira scoffed.

“We didn’t and now you’re gonna pay for trying to kill Kyoga.” Karabi snarled in response.

“Hahaha! What can you two possibly do? You just have ponies and a Lion Guard with just one lion, pathetic! There’s nothing you two can do to stop me.” Zira smugly scoffed at the glaring daggers each and every member of the Guard was giving her as they were all ready to charge at her and her pride with claws, magic, wings at the ready.

“But we can….!” a voice came from behind her. Zira and her pride turned and saw Simba, Nala, their pride, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, who now had a look similar to her sisters.

She was a darker blue with silver, sparkling shoes. Her mane resembled a starry night with a transparent cover over it and it flowed in the same way as her sisters. She now wore a black regliad over her neck with the symbol of the crescent moon.

“Mom! Dad!”

“Princess Celestia! Princess Luna!”

Kion and Twilight smiled.

“Grrr… Simba… Nala….” Zira growled.

“Zira.” Simba and Nala growled.

“Leave Kyoga alone, Zira.” Simba growled. “Or face the consequences again!”

“Hahaha!” Zira laughed. “And what can you possibly do?”

“We can end your reign of terror, so that you shall not bring harm to Kyoga and her remaining family.” Princess Luna stepped forth.

Zira scoffed. “You always underestimate me, Simba… and you all underestimate… dark magic….” Zira’s eyes suddenly turned black as night and her body turned black as well, infected with dark magic. Everyone stood back in horror at the sudden transformation, except for Kyoga, who lunged forth and latched onto Zira.

“Kyoga, No!” Karabi and Lite exclaimed, fearing their sister would be overtaken by the dark magic.

Kyoga growled as the dark magic crawled up her arms and her heart started, but Kyoga thought back to her past; playing with her mom and dad, Karabi, Lite. Karabi and Lite rough housing with her. Nuzzling into her mothers’ fur during the nights… all of those memories came to light as Kyoga’s eyes turned white and the light consumed her entire body, counteracting the dark magic of Zira and enveloping her in her light magic as well.

A large beam sprouted from the two lionesses into the sky and when it diminished, Zira semi-collapsed while Kyoga almost fell to her knees. Twilight and the entire guard gasped in awe and shock, seeing Kyoga… whose leg and eye were now free of scars…! And now, on her cheek, she had the mark of a blue shield surrounded by five white stars with a crystal heart with laces in the center.

“Is…. that a…. Cutie mark….?” Twilight gaped in awe and the girls nodded as they are all not dreaming or hallucinating this.

Zira staggered to her feet feeling drained and weakened by what had just happened unable to unleash dark magic from her eyes and paws,

“W-What did you do to m-me….?” she stammered.

“I neturalized your dark magic with my own permanently. So you cannot bring harm to any one ever again.” Kyoga said proudly.

Zira growled as two of her lionesses came to support her.

“Now leave the Outlands, Zira…. Now…” Simba growled.

Zira defiantly snarled, “This… isn’t…. Over….Simba...” then her pride turned tail and ran away and deeper into the Outlands with the two Outsiders carrying their defeated leader away.

Karabi and Lite came over to their sister/best friend.

“Kyoga, are you okay?” Karabi asked, nuzzling her little sister while relieved that she is okay.

“Y-Yeah.. I’m okay…” Kyoga breathed just as relieved too. “I’m just glad, most of Zira’s pride is gone..”

“What do you mean, ‘most’?” Kion asked of what Kyoga meant as she went over to a large rock,

“Kovu, you can come out now..”

“Kovu?!” Everyone echoed in surprise before the young cub peeked his head out.

“Is it over?” He asked.

“It’s over…. For now…” Kyoga said.

“Whose this, Kyoga?” Kion asked as Simba had to resist the urge to growl and approach the cub threateningly like he did the last time they met but his visible anger at the cub still remained.

“That is Kovu, the one lion cub in Zira’s pride who actually had common sense.” Karabi quipped. “Was the only one who never fought against us, instead he wanted to be friends with us.”

“I-It’s true…” Kovu honestly stammered. “I don’t want what my mother wants. T-That’s not w-who I am…”

Kyoga nudged Kovu gently to let him know that she knows that even with his family ties to Zira.

“He’s tellin’ the truth for sure, ya’ll.” Applejack stated to cement that his words are indeed honest and true from the heart to which led to Simba's anger towards him fade and dissipate into thin air as he is coming to see that even though he bares a young resemblance to his father's killer he is not and will never become and act like Scar.

“If you don’t want me in the Pridelands, still, I’ll go…” Kovu lowered his head, sadly as he started to back up so he can turn to join his family.

“...... Actually Kovu.” Princess Celestia spoke up as she came forth in front of the young male cub. “Since you’ve shown that you want friendship instead of revenge against Kyoga, I think that more than earns you a place in the Pridelands.”

“I agree.” Nala added with a smile.

Kovu’s face lit up, “R-Really?!”

“Sounds good to me.”

“Me too!”

“Yeah!”

“Affirmative.”

“Poa!”

“Yippee!”

“Yeehaw!”

“Of course.”

“Sure.”

“I agree.” Kion and the others agreed with their majesties decision.

Kovu was ecstatic hearing this overwhelming support, “Thank you, your majesties.”

“Of course, Kovu.” Simba smiled with opened up and warm eyes towards him as he wrapped the cub into an embrace.

“Kyoga, h-how’d you neutralize Zira’s dark magic?” Twilight curiously asked.

“I countered her hate and fear with happiness and love; thinking back to when I was younger, playing with my family and being close to my mother…” Kyoga explained as the bright memories flowed through her mind again.

“Countering dark magic…. With the Magic of Friendship..” Celestia smiled, proud of Kyoga.

Jasiri's clan then happily stood around their watering hole. Madoa stood opposite of her sister and the entire Guard and royal family.

"I know Jasiri believed in you, but I'll admit, I had my doubts." she admitted, smiling at Kyoga.

"And now?" Kion asked.

The female hyena chuckled, "I'm glad she has you for her friends."

Kion returned the smile to Kyoga, "Thanks. We all are…” Kyoga nuzzled Karabi and Lite with a smile of happiness on her face… for the first time in a long time as things were now finally looking up for her now that she has overcome her past and ready to move on to the road going ahead with her recently reunited family and the Lion and Pony Guard by her side...

..."We shall see about that, Kion." Scar commented with a confident smirk as he watched over everyone from a hidden boulder afar thinking otherwise as he specifically eyed his best friend Twilight Sparkle smiling proudly at Kyoga with what she had just accomplished today with a new cutie mark on her cheek to prove it.

She wastes no time expressing her interest and delight at the true thought that lions are capable of earning cutie marks seeing this as a great scientific discovery going forward which can wait for another day with everything that has happened taken in account for today while Scar remains undeterred by what Kyoga had just did to herself along with Zira and everything that had happened just recently today before teleporting away once he ran the opposite direction and was out of their range of sight.

Author's Note

In this version of this episode, there sure has been a lot that has happened in this episode as Kyoga takes center stage in this special episode.

Kyoga taking Kion's place in dealing with Zira and her pride as she personally knows them. And as explained by Rafiki, they are responsible for how it all came to this. How Kyoga got her scars, how she ended up horribly traumatized, how everything comes to light here all thanks to the Outsiders with Scar himself scarring Kyoga after her family's pride refused to join his and Zira's.

Luckily for her the entire Guard along with her siblings come to her rescue along with SImba, Nala, the lionesses, and Princesses Celestia and Luna all backing her up with Kyoga herself defeating and stripping Zira of her dark magic abilites...

...which frees herself of her previous marks in place of a new cutie mark on her cheek.

The Magic of Friendship once again proves invaluable as Kyoga overcomes her traumatic past with a new brighter look in life now that she has her family and friends with her going forward.

In addition, even though somewhat understandable why Kovu couldn't join the Pride Lands in canon to stay true to form to the sequel, it felt a quite disappointing that he got the cold shoulder and had to flee to join the defeated Outsiders even though he was the only one not to join in on the fighting.

But since this is different universe with open what if scenario's to explore, Kovu gets to join the Pride Landers and Equestrian ponies in open arms and wings, which is also another game changer going forward into the second half of Season 2 onwards.

Phew, what a Wham Episode PikachuSkitty has put together for this mid-season episode, Kyoga, Karabi, and Lite's past is revealed with the devastating reveal that their pride has been massacred by Scar, Zira, and the Outsiders during Scar's reign over the Pride Lands along with the reveal of Kyoga's literal and emotional scarring from the experience courtesy of Scar himself, and Kovu has joined the Pride Lands and Equestria with a new path ahead of him going forward.

Next up to kick start the second half of Season 2 is "The Last Roundup." where the Guard travels to Dodge Junction to find out why Applejack didn't come home as planned and scheduled.

Episode 22: The Last Roundup

Episode 22:

The Last Roundup

At Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack is currently practicing her rodeo routine in preparation for the Equestria Rodeo competition to where she is a big time champion at with Apple Bloom and Ono watching and observing her. The former was holding onto her special hat while cheering for support while the latter is there for analysis and observing her performance so he can guide and coach her through her performance much like Fuli did with Rainbow Dash.

She is currently running an obstacle course where she clears mud pits and wooden fences that range from size at every portion to which she cleared no problem aside from tapping one of the fences during her trail run.

“Whoo-- Whoa! Whoo-hoo!” Apple Bloom cheered while nearly losing her balance from standing on the fence as she gives her big sister a wink to let her know she is doing great while Ono watches from up high.

She then tossed a hay bale across the distance and it ended up surpassing the previous two distances she covered to which Applejack smiled modesty upon seeing as her little sister cheers her on.

“Applejack, you're sure to knock everypony's hat off at the Equestria Rodeo competition!” She complimented as Ono flew down to join her.

“Aw shucks, Apple Bloom. I sure hope so.” Applejack modestly replied as she puts her hat back on.

“Hope so? I know so!” She confidently stated that she’s got this as she directed her attention to her blue ribbon and medal collection. “After all, you're the ten-time rodeo champeen of Ponyville! Why, you've got more blue ribbons than anypony in Ponyville ever! And I can't wait for my big sis to win every blue ribbon in Equestria and bring home the title of Equestria Rodeo champeen!”

Applejack couldn’t help but smile and blush at the praise her little sister was giving her because she knows she is right. But deep down and honestly she can’t promise everything and from the looks of Ono’s eyes as he spotted that the farm pony had some trouble on the practice session as he flies in to give an analysis report so she can work on improvement before the competition there are some personal consequences soon to happen.

Elsewhere in Ponyville, everyone is getting ready to send the farm pony off in anticipation for his big and upcoming victory where Rainbow Dash is currently hanging a banner of Applejack with Fuli watching over her progress at town hall.

“Rainbow, watch out!” Fuli alerted her as Rainbow ducked out of the way from a lightning bolt that had unexpectedly shot from the sky courtesy of a peagsus pony Derpy. She had a gray fur coat and a blonde mane and tail and was mindlessly hopping up and down from a dark cloud that was randomly sending sparks of lightning Fuli’s way.

“Whoa?! Huh?! Hey?!” Fuli exclaimed as she quickly dodged every voltage filled bolt.

“Huh?” Rainbow commented as her tail nearly got singed before turning to clueless peagsus to get her to stop. “Now, careful, Derpy! Don't want to do any more damage than you've already done.”

She gestured to the destroyed roof of town hall done because of Derpy.

“I just don't know what went wrong.” She innocently replied as Fuli had to really work had to avoid getting fatlly shocked because Derpy kept bouncing up and down on the dark cloud she was standing on until she shocked herself.

“Yeah. It's a mystery.” Rainbow muttered under her breath.

“Even though I have a pretty good idea.” Fuli also said to herself as she looks around the burnt marks on the ground surrounding her.

True, Derpy means well and is a nice mare, she just have a track record of being accident-prone combined with having a wall-eyed condition that makes her a danger to everything around her.

“Nice work, Rainbow Dash.” Derpy complimented as she backed up against one of the support beams which broke off and fell off to which Rainbow Dash quickly flew down in an attempt to save it but even her amazing strength couldn’t stop it from crashing through one of the floors.

Both Fuli and Derpy rushed over to the hole Rainbow crashed through and see that thankfully she is unharmed.

“You okay, Rainbow Dash? Anything I can do to help?” Derpy asked her as she peeked her head through the hole as Rainbow Dash reaching her limit with Derpy flies up to her face.

“No! Nothing! In the name of Celestia, just sit there and do nothing!” She ordered of her to which she does and ends up falling through the floor while dragging Rainbow Dash with her as they both crashed back down to the floor as Fuli flinched out of harm’s way.

“Oops. My bad.” Derpy said to Rainbow while calling out to Fuli to let her know they’re okay.

“Oh for Simba’s sake, you had one simple job to do and you still couldn’t avoid breaking something?!” Fuli groaned in annoyance. “Now I know why your name is Derpy.” She added as Rainbow flies Derpy out through the hole as she just sheepishly grins in embarrassment.

Shortly after everything is set up ponies have gathered together to see their competing pony head out all while chanting “Applejack!” over and over as Mayor Mare prepared to make the announcement.

“Everypony, can I get your attention? Attention please!?” She called for everyone as they all stopped chanting. “Yes, we are all here to send Applejack to compete in this year's Equestria Rodeo competition in Canterlot.” She pointed to the farm pony standing on the podium to which every pony all stomped their hooves onto the ground and gave another thunderous applause as she shook her hoof to the side humbly. “And I want to thank Applejack in advance for generously offering up her prize money to fix town hall.” She further announced as she gestured to the falling apart building.

“Yeah, Applejack! Whoo-hoo!” Derpy cheered before accidentally falling back through the hole she created again as Rainbow and Fuli both roll their eyes.

The crowd then stomped their hooves as they cheered for Applejack again.

“Speech! Speech!” Pinkie called out while repeatedly bouncing.

“Oh, shucks. I'm not much for speeches.” Applejack humbly replied.

“Alright then, no speech!” Pinkie happily accepted as she ran off ahead as Bunga still felt one was in order.

“Come on, Applejack!” Bunga insisted with an eager smile as Applejack complies.

“Buuut!” Applejack added as Pinkie immediately ran back in the crowd. “This here is the nicest send off anypony could ask for. Y'all have been cheering me on in every rodeo since I was a little little pony. So it seems only fittin' to use my winnings to fix up town hall. I promise to make Ponyville proud.”

Everyone cheered for her once more as Applejack modestly tilted her hat downwards before allowing the cowgirl to head on to the train station with only her family and friends there to personally see her off.

“I want you to show all them highfalutin rodeo ponies what a real rodeo pony's like!” Granny Smith encouraged her granddaughter.

“You betcha, Granny Smith.” She happily returned.

“And bring back all that money!” Mayor Mare added.

“You betcha, Mayor.”

“And have fun. And don't be nervous.” Pinkie added. “Or if you are, use that nervous energy to do even better than you already would! And eat peanuts and popcorn and taffy. Taffy gives lots of nervous energy!”

As Pinkie and Bunga both dove into the sugary bag of treats as Twilight narrowed her eyes at their behavior before taking a turn with more no worries approach.

“Just do your best, Applejack.” She said to her.

“I'll do better than my best!” Applejack confidently boasted.

“The train to Canterlot is about to leave! All aboard who's coming aboard!” The conductor called out to any last minute passengers to which means it is time for Applejack to leave.

“Guess that means me.” She said as she turned to Ono. “Ready to go?”

“Affirmative.” He nodded with a salute as she landed on the farm pony’s back.

“Keep an eye out for her, Ono.” Kion said to him as they boarded the train. “She’ll need some keen sight to watch over her shoulder.”

“Will do, Kion.” He responded as the train started to take off from the station.

“Seeya in a week!” Rainbow called out to them first.

“With lots of new blue ribbons!” Apple Bloom added.

“And lots of money!” Mayor Mare chimed in.

“Darn tootin'! See y'all in a week, with a big bag full of blue ribbons!” Applejack called back after everyone as they all said goodbye to the end of the train station.

“And drink sarsaparilla!” Pinkie added while calling after her which earned her looks from everyone. “What? It gives you extra sass.”

“Makes perfect sense knowing you.” Kyoga remarked. “You and Bunga.”

“Yep!” Bunga exclaimed thinking literally nothing of the comment as Twilight, Kion, and Fuli shakes their heads.

One week later, the Guard along with the Apple Family all got everything ready for the surprise party they plan to throw Applejack and Ono the very moment they step inside the Apple Barn and so far everything is coming together nicely.

“Oh, I hope Applejack and Ono are surprised by this surprise party!” Fluttershy excitedly expressed after she helped Rainbow Dash put up a banner on the wall.

“Well, that is the point.” Rainbow dully responded as she and Apple Bloom pull streamers from the nearby box before tossing one end of the streamer to her so they can put in on the banner.

“I know, but I hope she isn't so surprised she's startled, because while being surprised can be nice...” She explained before floating back down to the ground “…. being startled can be... very startling.” She said before being caught off guard when Pinkie and Bunga launched confetti into the air while shouting…

“Surprise!”

Fluttershy then fell onto her back as a result from the shock.

“Oh, Pinkie, Bunga, you two startled me.”

“Sorry!” Pinkie and Bunga apologized before helping her up on her hooves.

“We were just practicing our "surprise!" for when we surprise Applejack with this super cool party for becoming rodeo champeen of Equestria!” Pinkie explained while hopping around as Fluttershy walks opposite of her until she shouted “Surprise!” in her face again thus causing her to fall on her back again with Bunga helping her up again.

“Quiet, Pinkie.” Twilight announced in a hushed tone as she peered her eyes from the slightly open entrance. “I think Applejack and Ono are coming!”

“Don't worry, Twilight.” She assured as she leaped into where Apple Bloom is hiding. “Got my lips all limbered up!” She then demonstrated by making some weird faces while grinding her teeth and moving her lips around to which annoyed the little foal.

Everyone else ducked for cover as Fluttershy and Rainbow flew to their hiding nest above the barn, Twilight and Kion, duck behind nearby beams, while the others including Beshte, Kyoga, Bunga, Fuli, and Rarity hide behind and under tables. And once the door opened the lights were turned on and…

“Surprise!” Everyone shouted together and revealed themselves while turning on the lights.

“Surprise!” Pinkie shouted a second late. “Shoot!”

Although to their surprise it was not Applejack and Ono but instead the mail carrier.

“Wow, this is the best surprise ever! How did you know it was my birthday?” The mail pony expressed while everyone’s eager excitement dropped to frowns as Twilight approached him and was given the letter as part of his job.

Before she could slam the door shut in anger…

“Wait! Wait! Wait!” Bunga shouted while approaching the pony with a slice of cake. “Here you go! Happy Birthday!”

“Aw, thanks!” The mail thanked just when Twilight gently shut the doors.

“Who's it from, Twilight? What's it say?” Apple Bloom asked when Twilight opened the letter and regrouped with everyone.

“It's from Applejack and Ono.” Twilight happily replied while beginning to read from it…

"Family and friends, not coming back to Ponyville. Don't worry, will send money soon.

P.S. Kion, I hope I’m not missing out on anything important on morning patrol while I’m gone."

She read as everyone’s happy expressions turned into shock. “That's all there is.” She said to everyone who all exchange saddened gasps.

“What?” Kion asked in disbelief.

“Applejack's...not comin' back?” Apple Bloom sadly asked sounding like she is going to cry.

“What do you mean Applejack and Ono are not coming back?!” Rainbow also questioned. “They love Ponyville!”

“They love being on the Lion and Pony Guard.” Beshte added very surprised hearing this.

“Applejack loves Sweet Apple Acres!” Granny Smith added just as sad.

“And she loves her family!” Apple Bloom added looking like she is going to cry as Rarity gasped.

“This doesn’t make any sense.” Kion thought. “This is not like of them.”

“Something just dreadful must have happened to Applejack and Ono to make them not return!” She thought.

“Maybe they're hurt, or sad, or scared!” Fluttershy suggested.

“So, what are we waiting for? Let's go find her!” Rainbow voiced of what must be done as she flew off ahead with Fuli and Fluttershy pursing her.

“Right behind you! Huwezi!” Fuli voted while dashing out of the barn.

“Don't worry. We'll search all of Equestria if we have to. We'll bring them back.” Twilight assured everyone who all gave brighten smiles as thanks.

“Y'all are the best.” Apple Bloom thanked as she hugged Kion in a big brotherly manner before letting him join his friends.

“Thank you girls!” Granny Smith thanked on behalf of the Apple Family as Twilight salutes to everyone that the Lion and Pony Guard is on the case before leading the way out to Canterlot.

“Our little bushel just lost one apple.” Granny Smith then said to her normally stoic and quiet grandson as he struggled and let loose a few tears at the very thought almost as much as when she briefly left the family for her brief tenure in Manehattan.

The Lion and Pony Guard all on the case as they board the next train to Canterlot where the rodeo Applejack was competing in took place. When they all arrived at the place where the rodeo happened, Twilight and Kion nodded at their teammates to split up and ask questions on the cowgirl and egret’s whereabouts. They questioned every pony at the stadium but they all came up empty-hooved.

Just when the Guard was lamenting of their lack of success a country pony wearing a farm hat came across the missing duo’s pictures and pointed them to their last seen whereabouts. The far off land of Dodge Junction deep in the desert much to the hopeful crew’s sudden dismay since it is so far away farther than Appleloosa. But nevertheless they all boarded the next train in that direction.

“I hope this lead doesn't turn out to be a dead end.” Rainbow began conversing their primary worries of their friends. “I don't wanna go home empty-hooved after promising we'd find her.”

As they all conversed, Pinkie was currently sitting crossed legged while grunting and struggling to avoid having an accident on the train while Bunga was off somewhere else on the train.

“I don't know how we'll break it to the Apple family.” Fluttershy commented in concern.

“I don’t know how we’ll break it to Ono’s family.” Beshte also expressed in concern.

“I don't know how we'll break it to Ponyville!” Twilight added.

“I don’t know how we’ll break it to all of the Pride Lands!” Kion also added.

“I don't know how I'll make it to the next stop!” Pinkie exclaimed as she struggles to hold it in with gritted teeth when Bunga came back to join his friends while looking rather relieved.

“Phew! Feel better already.” Bunga expressed much to everyone’s confusion.

“Uh, Bunga?” Fuli piped up looking very disturbed.

“What?”

“Where exactly did you go?” She asked to remind him that their train doesn’t have a bathroom.

“Oh, no big deal.” He dismissed their concerns with a wave of his right arm. “I just took care of my business by going over the edge of the caboose and on the tracks.”

“Eww.” Everyone exclaimed in disgust expect for Pinkie who had her eyes closed shut feeling like she is about to burst.

“What?”

“That might be acceptable in the Pride Lands, but not here.” Rarity replied in disgusted scolding manner. “That is just uncouth to do so in the open.”

“Well, it’s not like anyone else saw it and it's not my fault this train doesn't have a bathroom.” Bunga defended. “What no one knows can’t hurt you, am I right?”

Before Rarity could respond with a counter-argument the train whistled to signal they have all arrived.

“This is Dodge Junction, girls and boys.” Twilight announced. “Applejack is supposed to have come here after the rodeo ended.” Once the train pulled to a complete stop everyone all boarded off of the train. “Let's fan out and try to find her.” Twilight then instructed everyone as Pinkie quickly rushed past them in clear desperation in searching for a bathroom.

“Ooh, pickles!” She exclaimed.

“After Pinkie is done with her personal business…properly.” Fuli added while shooting a dirty look at the nervous chuckling honey badger as Pinkie rushed over to the nearest outhouse as she urgently knocked on the door upon seeing it is occupied.

“Hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry!” She repeated while dancing from one back hoof to the other before knocking urgently again while sweating. “Hurry it up in there!”

The door suddenly opened in Pinkie’s face as the toilet inside flushed with a familiar face and voice coming out of it.

“Some ponies. Sheesh.”

Applejack grumbled as Pinkie quickly rushed inside…

…but got distracted from her potty emergency as she realized who she had just crossed paths with.

“Applejack!” She exclaimed before happily bouncing over to the Guard. “I found her, I found her, I found her, I found her, I found her!” She happily expressed while pointing to where she is walking by while meeting up with Ono to which everyone all smiled at the sight of finding their friends as they returned surprised looks upon seeing them here.

“Oh, Applejack, thank heavens!” Rarity expressed relief.

“You’re all right, Ono!” Beshte happily exclaimed with perked ears.

“We're so glad you're safe!” Fluttershy warmly added as Kion and Kyoga took notice of the silent sadness they were expressing.

“We were really worried about you both.” Kion added.

“I found them, I found them, I found them, I found them!” Pinkie repeatedly exclaimed while bouncing into the air until she stopped and crossed her legs realizing she still has to go. “Be right back.” She said with a giggle before rushing over to the outhouse to do her business.

“Well this is a surprise?” Ono began as their friends joined by their side.

“Uh, hey, everypony. What's up?” Applejack then asked with a forced smile.

“We were so worried about you.” Bunga answered.

“We were looking all over Canterlot for you until we were told we could find you here.” Beshte added.

“Why didn't you come back to Ponyville?!” Rainbow immediately asked.

“Yes, why are you here?” Rarity added in agreement as Pinkie emerged after relieving herself.

“What’s going on?” Fuli asked.

“Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked.

“Do you have any snacks?” Pinkie randomly asked.

“Yeah do you.” Bunga repeated as Fuli and Kyoga glared at him. “What? I’m hungry! It was a very long train ride over here!”

“Tell us what happened, Applejack!” Twilight expected the truth with care in her voice.

“Look everyone!” Ono irritably snapped at everyone. “Everything is fine here! You all didn’t have to come looking for us!”

Everyone but Applejack was surprised at his sudden outburst while taken aback that he would ever say something like that to them but before anyone could respond another voice approached the two.

“Applejack? Ono? Are these some of your Ponyville and Pride Lander friends?” The mare asked.

This mare had a pale white-yellow fur coat, pistachio green eyes, cherry red mane a matching two cherry cutie mark while wearing a yellow hair band with cherries on it, and a pink scarf.

“Yes, ma'am.” Twilight happily responded as she, Kion, and Rarity approach her.

“We are.” Kion added.

“And you are?” Rarity asked as the mare introduced herself.

“Why, I'm Cherry Jubilee, boss of Cherry Hill Ranch. Hasn't Applejack or Ono told ya? I saw Applejack compete at the Equestria Rodeo with Ono coaching her. Never saw anypony win so many ribbons in all my life nor seen an egret with such keen sight guiding her every hoof step of the way.” She happily replied.

“Aw shucks, Miss Jubilee. You don't have to go into all that.” Applejack modestly responded trying to downplay any suspicion rather unsuccessfully as some members of the Guard were eyeing her feeling that something is not adding up here.

“Yeah, you’re too kind.” Ono nervously added.

“Oh, she's so modest.” Cherry Jubilee continued with a hoof on the cow girl’s chin. “Anyway, I can always use a pony with quick hooves and a strong back. So, when I heard Applejack and Ono were looking for a change of scenery, I snapped them up as quick as I could and brought her to Dodge Junction.” She addressed everyone before turning to her new employees before trotting off. “Well, I'll let you catch up with your friends. See you back at the ranch.”

Everyone gathering around the two with questioning looks as they both slightly sweated nervously as Rainbow is the first to press for answers.

“"Change of scenery"? What's that supposed to mean?” Rainbow demanded.

“It means nothing to be overly concerned about!” Ono assertively got in Applejack’s defense while getting right up in her nose much to her surprise.

“Really it’s no big deal, guys.” Applejack attempted to assure everyone. “I thought cherries would be a nice change from apples for a short time period, so I took the job and came here. That's it. End of story.” Applejack then added.

“What?!” The Lion Guard all exclaimed together.

“That's it? Well, that's a terrible story!” Pinkie expressed disgust.

“Well like it or not it’s the truth.” Ono returned irritably wondering why it is so hard for them to accept it. “And we are here to stay for a little while.”

“We’re sorry y’all, but that's all there is to tell. Thanks for checkin' on us, but y'all can go home now.” Applejack stubbornly added as they both began to walk/fly away from them. “Tell my family hi, and that I'm doing a-okay.”

This did not sit well with Kion, nor Fuli, nor Rainbow, as they all intercepted them immediately expecting the full truth out of them.

“We don’t think so.” Fuli sternly stopped them as she got in their faces. “Because the Guard needs it’s most honest and keenest of sight back home when needed.”

“Exactly!” Kion agreed. “Our team is no good without everyone all together. Ono, you always value your position in the guard to the point you never want to miss out on a patrol even when you were injured.” He then said to the egret finding this really unlike of him.

“Yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed in agreement too. “We didn't travel all over Equestria searching for you to come home without you!”

“Well, we didn't ask you to come lookin' for us! There is nothin' to tell and I am not going back to Ponyville!” Applejack asserted on behalf of herself and Ono as they both walked/flew off ahead.

“And that is final!” Ono added before joining Applejack leaving the group rather stunned with the two.

“Why of all of the nerve!” Fuli exclaimed as she could not believe what had just happened of all ponies and animals of the two worlds to actually walk out on them like that.

“Something is wrong here.” Kyoga deduced.

“Yes, very wrong.” Twilight agreed. “And I don't care what she says. Applejack and Ono are not telling us something.”

“Twilight's right. We gotta get them to spill the beans.” Rainbow stated of what must be done.

“What?! She had beans?” Bunga along Pinkie misinterpreted as she got right in her face.

“Ugh, I told her I was snacky!”

Rainbow just looks on with dismay before they all discuss of how to get through to their friends without even bothering to say a word to them about it or engage in a pointless conversation.

Sometime later, Applejack and Ono were put to work in one part of the factory where there is a two empty boxes with images of red and yellow cherries on each of them with a conveyor belt and a working wheel present in the room.

“You two ready to put your back into it, Applejack and Ono?” Cherry Jubilee asked of them while wearing hats and aprons their size.

“Sure am, Miss Jubilee.”

“Affirmative.”

The two replied positively as the orange earth pony leaped onto the wheel.

“Terr-ific.” She stated before turning to the recent help she had just hired. “Come on in, girls and boys!”

Said helpers were her friends from the Guard as they all happily trotted in with hats and aprons of their own.

“Hapana!”

“What are you all doing here?” Applejack expected an answer of them as she is not pleased with their persistent following of them.

“We're your cherry sorters.” Twilight nonchalantly answered before turning to the others. “Shall we get started?”

“Let’s.” Fuli eagerly nodded.

“Fine.“ Applejack and Ono both relented as their boss began to give them insturctions as she points to the boxes.

“Haha, red cherries go in one bin, and yellow cherries go in the other. Simple as cherry pie. Uh, just one teensy thing to remember – have fun!” She told them before walking away to let them tend to it.

“What are you all up to?” Ono suspiciously asked them.

“What makes you think we are up to something?” Bunga innocently responded. “Can’t we just visit and accompany you on your new jobs.”

“Yeah, I mean you made working on a cherry orchard sound... “ Rarity added then paused thinking of what to say until she decided on… “so delightful.”

“Uh-huh.” Ono returned unconvinced.

“Well, just remember: no talking about Ponyville.” Applejack relented on one condition.

“Fine! Why don't you quit talking and get walking?” Rainbow fired back which Applejack and Ono both focused on their new jobs while clearly suspicious of the Guard’s ulterior motives for accepting new jobs and turning the tables on them to try to extract confessions of them. Nevertheless, Applejack started walking slowly which led to the cherries on the conveyor belt slowly coming out one at a time so the others can place them in the proper bins.

As they started worked Rainbow Dash noticed that neither both Applejack nor Ono are looking at them so she silently nudged her head towards Twilight to strike up a conversation with them.

“So, AJ, Ono, how was Canterlot?” Twilight asked them as the two widen their eyes and shoot them hardened looks at her. “Not talking about Ponyville, talking about Canterlot, totally different town.” She then quickly defended

“Canterlot was fine.” Applejack reluctantly answered.

“Was the rodeo fun?” Kion asked Ono.

“Yes.”

“Did you meet some nice ponies there?” Twilight asked Applejack while walking up to her working the wheel.

“Some.”

“Really? Did you see Wild Bull Hickok?” Rainbow asked as she flew over to speak to her directly.

“What about Calamity Mane?” Bunga chimed in.

“Yes, we saw 'em both.” Ono irritably answered as he and Applejack are faced with their eagerly grinning friends facing them as they both frown at them in response who both pout back.

“And how did you meet Miss Jubilee?” Rarity asked walking over to join in on the conversation.

“Um, well, Miss Jubilee had a cherry stand at the rodeo. Real good treats.” Applejack simply answered as she started trotting which made it increasingly harder for the others working the conveyor belt to make sure the cherries re in their proper bins.

“Um, excuse us?” Fluttershy softly called out .

“Guys…” Beshte called out a little louder to which Fuli quickly responded by starting to use her tail to grab whatever weren’t caught by either Pinkie, Beshte, Fluttershy, and Bunga as Applejack continued with his increased pace.

“Cherry winks, cherry cheesecake, cherry tarts. We struck up a conversation, being orchard folk and all.”

“So you told her about Sweet Apple Acres?” Twilight asked Applejack starting to ask a little closer to the hidden truth.

“Yes.”

“Did you tell her about your roles in the Guard?” Kion asked Ono with the same apporoach.

“Yes.”

“Did you tell her why you weren't going back?” Rainbow asked with increased pressure to force an answer out of her.

“No, 'cuz it was none of her business!” Applejack irritably and defensively returned while increasing her pace even more.

“Ooh... Can you please slow down?” Fluttershy pleaded as Fuli started using her super speed to rush between boxes to keep up with Applejack’s set pace with Ono getting just as aggravated as Applejack didn’t instruct her to slow down as asked of them.

“Is it because I made it rain on you that one time?” Rainbow demanded.

“No!” Applejack responded as she starting running thus making it very hard for everyone working the sorting out to keep up as Fuli took control and started sending all of the cherries to their proper bins with rapid succuession while Pinkie starts stuffing some in her hat.

“Help!” Fluttershy cried out deaf ears.

“Is it because you were insulted when I gave you that book on organized orchards?” Twilight asked Applejack.

“NO!” She exclaimed as she went as fast as she can run

“Is it because you were insulted when I insulted your hair?” Rarity asked.

“No, no, NO!” Applejack exclaimed as she snapped. “I'm not telling you why, so just–“

“STOP!” Fluttershy desperately screamed as Applejack immediately stopped as all of the cherries on the conveyor belt flew from the belt and splattered all over Applejack and Ono to which everyone all gasping seeing what had happened.

Applejack and Ono both looked upon everyone with narrowed eyes as Applejack walks off with silence as Ono sharing the same silent fury has something to say.

“If any of you care so much about the truth so bad, you’ll all stay away from us until further notice.” Ono said to them before joining Applejack outside so they can fetch cherries from cherry trees.

In the meantime, everyone all got to work in cleaning up the mess they caused Applejack to make while Bunga helps in by eating as many cherries as he can.

“Well, girls, we seem to be striking out.” Twilight lamented as she used her magic to mop up the mess.

“More like misfiring.” Kyoga commented as she helped Fluttershy clean the wheel.

“That's 'cause we're playing too nice.” Rainbow retorted as Kion is left feeling troubled by what had just happened. In all of the time they have known each other, Ono has never gotten mad at them like that nor actually refused a request from him.

“I don’t know if I would say that considering we did trigger Applejack into creating this mess.” Kion sighed.

“Something wrong darling?” Rarity who was helping Pinkie clean the conveyor belt asked as she took notice of him.

“This just doesn’t make any sense.” Kion responded still trying to piece it together. “What happened at the rodeo that they don’t want us to know about?”

“But what?” Beshte inquired.

“Maybe she didn’t come out on top like she thought she was going to do.” Fuli suggested. “Just came up short of winning.”

“That could be very likely.” Kyoga agreed.

“Well whatever it is we’re going find out.” Bunga stated.

“Yes. Desperate times do call for desperate measures.” Rarity agreed.

“It's time to call in the big guns.” Rainbow declared as she eyes Pinkie Pie tasting the cherry mush along with Bunga to do the job.

Outside of the barn both Applejack and Ono were both picking cherries from their trees with Applejack kicking them from trees with Ono guiding him to kick at the tree’s roots that will give the most cherries from the kick. Just then Pinkie and Bunga appeared right in front of them.

“Hey, Applejack.”

“Hey, Ono.”

“Need some help?”

The two cheerfully asked.

“You promise not to ask me any questions?” Applejack asked them.

“We promise.” Pinkie stated as she and Bunga followed the two as Ono motions to Applejack to which part of the tree she should buck her back hooves while Pinkie and Bunga both shake the nearby tree with their paws and hooves.

Of course, it didn’t take long for one of them to start talking.

“Have you ever had a cherrychanga?” Pinkie couldn’t help but ask. “Ooh! Sorry, that was a question.”

“That kind of question is fine, Pinkie.” Applejack had no problem with it. “No, I-I never had a cherrychanga.”

“Well, no wonder, because I made it up myself!” Pinkie replied as she got nose to nose with Applejack. “A cherrychanga is mashed up cherries in a tortilla that's deep fried. Cherrychanga. Great name, huh?”

“Totally!” Bunga agreed.

“Oh, but maybe I should call it a chimicherry.” Pinkie proposed.

“Ooh, that's good too.” Bunga found it even better as Applejack along with Ono turned to the next tree as the two continue rapidly talking.

“Which do you think sounds better? Cherrychanga or chimicherry?” Pinkie asked “Or what if I combine them? Chimicherrychanga! What sounds the funniest?”

“I like funny words! One of my favorite funny words is 'kumquat'! I didn't make that one up.” Bunga traded with Pinkie as they follow the two carrying their cherry baskets.

“I would work in a kumquat orchard just so I could say 'kumquat' all day! Kumquat, kumquat, kumquat!” Pinkie added as she repeatedly hopped from behind while Applejack and Ono were both getting increasingly annoyed with thei incessant chattering.

“And 'pickle barrel'! Isn't that just the funnest thing to say? Pickle barrel, pickle barrel, pickle barrel! Say it with me!” Pinkie told Bunga.

“Pickle barrel, kumquat, pickle barrel, kumquat, pickle barrel, kumquat, chimicherrychanga!” The two traded back and forward until the farm pony and egret’s patience snapped.

“No!” Ono screamed with his wings plugging his ears.

“Make it stop, make it stop!” Applejack screamed as she lowered her head onto the ground with Rainbow and Fuli emerging from their hiding spot where she and everyone else in hiding are wearing ear plugs before covering Pinkie and Bunga’s mouths with their paws and hooves.

“The only way to make it stop is for you to spill the beans!” Rainbow offered while issuing their demands.

“Never!”

“Not happening!”

The two refused to crack.

“All right.” Fuli accepted with a smirk before nodding to Rainbow as they remove their paws and hooves from Bunga and Pinkie’s mouths so they can speak clearly.

“Speaking of beans, did you ever realize how many words rhyme with 'beans'?” Pinkie continued as Bunga listed them off backing the two up to the nearby tree from behind them.

“Well let’s see there’s, Lean, mean, spleen, unclean, bean...“

“Alright, alright!” Applejack conceded. “We’ll tell everyone and everypony what's goin' on!”

“Just please for Simba’s sake stop talkin'!” Ono cried out as everyone emerged from their hiding spots. “But... can it wait 'til tomorrow at breakfast? I'm plum tuckered out.”

“Tomorrow, huh?” Rainbow suspiciously asked.

“I don't know...” Fuli responded just as suspicious as Kyoga eyes them with the look that says it all.

“Do you Pinkie promise?” Pinkie seriously asked them while gesturing them to perform the movements for the signature promise.

“We will tell you the whole truth at breakfast.” Applejack relented with a sigh.

“Pinkie promise.” Ono added as they both did the movements for said promise.

Everyone all smiled with sanctification seeing that the two are finally going to confess the truth to them although Kyoga and Fuli still have their doubts that they are willingly going to cooperate just like that as she and Fuli share a knowing look before sharing a whispered conversation together in preparation for tomorrow.

The next morning at sunrise with the morning rooster crowing, everyone all made their way to Applejack and Ono’s room in the barn so they can all head on out to a nearby diner for breakfast.

“I'm glad we're finally gonna get some answers from Applejack.” Twilight happily expressed.

“About time.” Kion agreed.

“You said it.” Beshte added.

“Yeah, maybe.” Rainbow voiced otherwise still having her doubts.

“Don't worry, Rainbow.” Pinkie assured her. “They gotta 'fess up after making a Pinkie promise.”

The group minus Fuli and Kyoga make their way to their room where Twilight knocks on the door before opening it.

“Good morning, Ono, Applejack.” Bunga began.

“You both ready for br– “ Pinkie added where everyone were all greeted to sight that only Fuli and Kyoga expected…

…and that was Applejack and Ono not in the bedroom with the bed already made which had Pinkie widening her eyes as she gasped in shock at what she was seeing…

…to her they have broken the Pinkie Promise. A serious offense to which she angrily grits her teeth with her face turning red in anger.

“Nopony breaks a Pinkie promise!” Pinkie angrily stated with steam coming out of her ears before running off ahead to lead everyone to where they are currently awaiting for the first train to escape Dodge Junction as Ono looks out for their friends trying to find them along with their train that is arriving late while Applejack anxiously while moving her hooves in place.

“Where’s that darn train when we need it?!” Applejack asked as Ono frantically looked around with his keen sight.

“I don’t know…” Ono replied as he then felt his heart struck with fear upon catching a terrifying sight coming towards them. “Hapana!”

“Applejack! Ono!” She shouted as she and their friends all rush over to confront them. “You two Pinkie promised!”

Applejack and Ono yelped at hearing the mare’s distorted sounding voice as they both quickly ran and flew for their lives only to be immediately tackled by Fuli and Kyoga in an ambush.

Acting quick, Applejack was able to buck the two off of her before making their escape as the others chase after them while Ono barely squeezes his way out and evades the two felines ambushing attempt.

“Applejack, Ono, come back here!” Pinkie angrily demanded as they made their way to a near coach wagon carried by four stallions.

“Giddy up, fellas, we gotta get the heck out of Dodge!” Applejack ordered them as she leaped onto the carriage with Ono flying ahead to guide them away from the others.

“She's gonna get away!” Pinkie stated as Fuli and Kyoga speed off ahead in hot pursuit of the getaway cart.

“Not if we have anything to say about it.” Fuli voiced with determination as they race off to intercept it.

As they race off ahead everyone else found a wagon with two open harnesses they can use to follow them all. With Fluttershy and Rainbow running as fast as they can with the others minus Beshte in tow they were all able to close the gap.

“Oh, we have you now!” Pinkie stated as they got a run on Applejack and Ono’ ride as they are seeking to run side by side with them.

But because of a bunny hopping into the middle of the road, Fluttershy halted their right dead in their tracks to avoid hitting it. As Beshte gently nudged the bunny off of the road, Rainbow after a moment of annoyance expressed towards Fluttershy for that pulls ahead so they can play catch up again.

Meanwhile Applejack and Ono were riding and flying ahead in the desert feeling confident that they have given them the slip were able to move forward with slight relief. Although it didn’t last long as their friends quickly managed to catch up to them again and managed to slam in their ride.

“Whoa! What the hay?” Applejack exclaimed upon seeing that their friends have managed to close the gap again.

“Pull over!” Rainbow Dash demanded as she, Kyoga, Fuli all take turns trying to force the stage coach pulling the runaway cowgirl to a grinding halt.

“Hey! Cut that out! Whoa!” Applejack shouted at them before placing an offer to the coach ponies. “I'll pay you double to outrun them.”

“We'll pay you triple to slow down!” Twilight counter offered as they immediately do so.

“I'll pay you quadruple to leave them in the dust!” Applejack counter offered back as the ponies pulling her coach did exactly that.

“That was rude!” Rarity commented as she and the others had to breath the literal dust kicked up in their faces.

“Get them! Get them!” Pinkie urged Rainbow, Fluttershy, Kyoga, and Fuli not to let them get away.

“Come on, Fluttershy!” Rainbow urged her as they play catch up once more while Fuli and Kyoga race alongside up to the cart still not losing their sight’s on the earth mare and egret with the latter keeping watch on the area around for any upcoming alarms while Applejack brandished the harnesses to get them to push the pace as they pull up side by side with their ride.

“Hyah! C'mon, y'all! Go, go!”

Once they were close enough, Pinkie leaped from her cart onto Applejack’s cart to confront the runaways.

“Applejack, Ono, you two broke your Pinkie promise! Apologize!” She angrily demanded.

“Pinkie, we did not break my promise!” She asserted.

“Wha?”

“If you’ll recall, we told you that we would tell you everything at breakfast.” Ono reminded her. “But we didn't come for breakfast.

“We couldn't come to that breakfast, not if it meant telling y'all what happened.” Applejack added.

“Well, I... I...“ Pinkie stammered at a loss for words.

“I'm sorry, Pinkie, but we can't tell y'all the truth. We just can't!” Applejack returned.

“Well I heard a "sorry" in there, so that'll have to do for now.” Pinkie relented yet still not satisfied. “I'll get a real apology later. Rarity, catch me.” She told as she leaped from the cart.

“What? Pinkie–“ Rarity protested as she finds herself knocked off of the cart alongside with her yet thankfully Fuli managed to intercept and sent them flying onto Beshte’s back who caught both of them on his back.

“Rainbow, go back!” Twilight urged her.

“No time! They knew what they were getting into!” Rainbow refused while continuing to press forward with stopping Applejack and Ono.

“Don’t worry, Beshte’s got them.” Kion assured they aren’t abandoning them. “And we’ll catch back up with them later.”

While Applejack focused on outrunning her pursers, Ono looked ahead and saw something that caught his immediate attention.

“Hapana! Train at 11:00!” Ono alerted with alarm in his voice as they see the railroad crossing with the oncoming and crossing train up ahead.

“Perfect! Hyah!” Applejack commented as she urged the stallions to beat it as they cross much to their great concern over being struck by it.

Nevertheless, Applejack confidently looked as she managed to press the ponies into crossing the railroad tracks just before the train could hit them, Ono flapped his wings as fast as he can to keep up with them, while having no problem dodging the incoming train.

“Yee-haw!” Applejack celebrated while Ono severely panted in exhaustion while fainting on the farm pony’s back as she jumps off of her coach as she prepares to pay them their dues.

“Lady, you're trouble.” They immediately refused and declared in unison and ride off deciding that nearly getting killed isn’t worth quadruple pay.

Just before Applejack could cherish in her victory, they find themselves immediately ambushed and tackled once again by Fuli and Kyoga and this time they managed to pin them down the ground by surprise after they both managing to leap over the train.

“Gotcha!” Fuli exclaimed upon catching her breath from all of that running along with Kyoga while pinning Ono down to the ground.

“You’re both not going anywhere this time!” Kyoga said the same to Applejack as they both sigh knowing they have been finally cornered just as Rainbow and Fluttershy fly their cart over the crossroad.

“Fine. Now you know.” Applejack relented.

“Know what?” Twilight asked as she and the others approach them.

“Well, just look!” Ono responded as Applejack pulled out her saddlebag and spilled out its contents while burying her head in the ground in shame. A handful of ribbons.

“We are.” Kion commented as they gander at the sight of their winnings.

“You won an amazing number of ribbons, just like Miss Jubilee said!” Twilight added.

“Don't you all get it?” Ono voiced as he flew over and got them to look at the colors of the ribbons more closely as Applejack sat down in shame. “There's every color of ribbon down there. Every color... but... blue.”

“Called it.” Fuli whispered to Kyoga.

“I came in fourth, third, even second, but I didn't win one first prize, and I certainly didn't win any prize money.” Applejack added. “Even with Ono’s coaching.”

“But the telegram said you were gonna send money.” Rainbow brought up as Ono looked aside feeling very guilty herself for not being able to coach the farm pony to victory through the rodeo.

“That's why we came here.” Applejack explained as she confessed. “We wanted to earn some money. After that big old send off Ponyville gave me, I just didn't have the nerve to come home empty-hooved. I couldn't come home a failure.”

“And after what happened, I too didn’t have the heart to confess either.” Ono added too still not having the courage to face his friends as she and Applejack walked off ahead. “My keen sight has always guided everyone to victory up until now and just seeing it wasn’t enough to help Applejack was just a big blow to me. I just couldn’t face everyone feeling like a failure either.”

“Applejack, you're not a failure.”

“And neither are you, Ono.”

Twilight and Kion comforted.

“And we're your friends!” Rainbow added without a hint of anger. “We don't care if you came in fiftieth place! You're still number one in our books.”

“Really?”

“So... you're not upset or disappointed?”

Ono and Applejack asked everyone who all shake their heads to confirm it

“But what about the mayor?” Ono brought up.

“I don't think I can face her and tell her I didn't get that money to fix the broken roof.” Applejack still voiced uneasily about coming home empty-hoofed.

“Applejack, we can always find a way to fix that hole in the roof.” Fluttershy reassures it’ll be okay. “But if you don't come back, we'll never be able to fix the hole in our hearts.”

“Or the hole that the keenest of sight leaves in the Guard.” Bunga added as they all get together for a group hug while Fuli and Kyoga watch as tears drop from Rainbow’s face seeing the touching moment.

“Darn it! Now you got me acting all sappy!” She complained as she sniffled a little as both Fuli and Kyofa share each other knowing looks while chuckling together.

“Very I might add.” Kyoga said before speaking to both Applejack and Ono. “So ready to head back?”

“Yes.” Applejack nodded along with Ono. “Right after me and Ono talk to Cherry Jubilee about it first.”

“Yeah, best not to keep her out of the loop of our sudden departure.” Ono added. “Common knowledge, really.”

“True.” Fuli agreed. “Plus we have some friends we need to collect to.”

After regrouping with their friends back at Dodge Junction, both Applejack and Ono went over to Cherry Jubilee where they explained the truth to them to which she took rather fine as she let them go back to Ponyville and the Pride Lands no strings attached before seeing them off as they all take the next train back.

Once everyone had everything they needed along with Pinkie and Bunga making sure they use the bathroom before the long train ride, they all went back where they were all greeted by the relieved Apple Family along with the Mayor. Just as expected, no one held all ill-feelings toward Applejack for not finishing first like she expected before making an agreement with the forgiving Mayor that they’ll hold a fundraiser together to raise money to fix Town Hall. While the Apple Family is just glad to see that she is back home safe and sound while still impressed with her display of ribbons from the rodeo.

During this time Applejack and Ono both managed to compose a letter for the princess about their week-long experience.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

It's a tad easier to be proud when you come in first than it is when you finish further back. But there's no reason to hide when you don't do as well as you'd hoped. You can't run away from your problems. Better to run to your friends and family.

In addition, having keen sight comes in handy when it definitely counts the most, but it sure doesn’t guarantee it will come through every single time down to perfection. Even with one small slip up or mistake there is nothing to be ashamed of. It is better to just move on and look at the positives of what having a sharp eye can do.”

“Well said you two.” Kion commended them as they hear Pinkie rambling to an annoyed Rarity as they walk out of the back of the cart together.

“What do you think, Rarity? Chimicherry or cherrychanga? Chimicherry, cherrychanga? Chimicherry, cherrychanga? Chimicherry, cherrychanga? Chimicherry, cherrychanga?”

As Rarity tuned out Pinkie’s voice she glared at Rainbow Dash still furious for what she did earlier.

“When I get back, you're gonna get it, Rainbow Dash!” She warned her as she raised defensive hoofs.

“Okay, okay. I’m sorry.” She apologized. “At least we didn’t abandon you back at Dodge.”

“Hmm.” Rarity huffed as she walked ahead while Pinkie and Bunga trade their earlier conversation to each other as they walked off together.

“She’ll be fine.” Fuli assured Rainbow with a friendly nudge while winking at Applejack and Ono for a well-done job of learning their lesson.

Author's Note

In the beginning of the second half of Season 2, we have an episode focusing on Applejack's adventure to the Canterlot Rodeo which didn't go according to plan to which she resorted to a series of small lies to try to cover it up out of shame for going ahead and making a promise she couldn't guarantee.

In addition she had Ono for company who coached her through the practice runs figuring his keen sight can help her out. Although of course, he learns the hard way that his keen sight isn't perfect and there are times it can't always foresee the best path to victory but has accepted it doesn't impair not being counted on when needed the most.

Next up is "The Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000." where the Apple Family will be fighting for their home rights when they along with the Guard meet the twin brother con-artist duo.

Episode 24: The Lost Gorillas

Episode 24:

The Lost Gorillas

In the Pride Lands, the Guard is currently observing Bunga and Fluttershy at one of the trees since Zazu had managed to get his beak stuck in a bee hive.

“Careful, Bunga...”

“Careful, Fluttershy…”

Both leaders of the Guard cautioned their friends.

“It's a very delicate situation!” Ono added for emphasis as he flies over to make sure they aren’t doing something that’ll lead to Zazu getting stung in the beak.

“Don’t worry, we got this.” Fluttershy assured as she carefully examines their approach, Zazu could only get out muffled words that translate to “Please, please, be careful!”

“Sorry, Zazu. Can't understand ya with your beak in that beehive.” Bunga responded unable to translate before he and Fluttershy gently yet firmly pull his beak out of the bee hive.

“Thank you, Bunga, Fluttershy! That's much…” He began before being greeted to a swarm of bees.

“Gotcha covered, Zazu!” Bunga quickly reacted by casually pushing Zazu out of the area to which Fluttershy quickly flies over to catch him before he could hit his head.

Once Zazu was safe, Bunga munched on the bees near the hive with Pinkie leaping up wearing a bee hat and mask as she fetches a honeycomb from inside the hive. Once Bunga and Pinkie had rejoined their friends back on the ground, Pinkie placed the honey onto some glazed honey buns on hoof.

“Gracious!” Zazu said in relief.

“Maybe next time try flying under the beehive, not through it!” Bunga advised.

“Or better yet, above the bee hive.” Pinkie added while flipping up the honey buns into the air before eating them all as they landed in her mouth.

“Yes. Thank you, Bunga, Pinkie. I’ll keep that in mind.” Zazu accepted it more or less.

“Anyways…” Fuli said quickly changing the subject. “…why were you in such a hurry?”

“I was looking for you.” Zazu answered. “All of you!”

“Us?” Applejack questioned.

“What's the kerbubble, Zazu?” Beshte asked.

“I've just received word. The pangolins are spraying everywhere!” Zazu reported. “It's quite a stinky situation.”

“Odd. Pangolins only spray when they're threatened.” Ono noted

“Sounds like something must have really spooked them.” Fluttershy theorized.

“Then we better check it out.” Kion voted.

“My thoughts precisely!” Zazu agreed with his decision.

“Till the Pride Lands' and Equestria’s end...” Kion and Twilight began as the others finished.

“Lion Guard defend!”

As everyone all ran off ahead, they all looked and smelled for any signs or smells of trouble. During which, Rarity takes the time to put on a gas mask while tying her curly mane and tail into buns to avoid having her mane ruined by the pangolins foul stench. Just as Rarity does so they hear farting noises along with cries for help from the pangolins.

“Sounds like we're close.” Kion voiced.

“Ugh. Smells like we're close.” Fuli agreed when she and the others all turned and saw Rarity’s gas mask.

“Sure are. Good thing I’m prepared.” Rarity said as they all find them but were all surprised by the sight in front of them.

“Huh?“ Everyone minus Kyoga said together.

“I'm sorry. Can anyone tell me what I'm looking at?” Fuli asked everyone trying to make sense of what she is seeing.

“No idea.” Ono responded just as confused as everyone else as they see two gorillas staring down at each other to which Kyoga recognized as she has met them before.

“Drop it, Majinuni!” One of the gorillas seriously said to his friend.

“You drop it, Hafifu! This one's a real stinker!” The other gorilla returned just as serious.

“I know you are, but what is it?” Majinuni asked as he squeezed the pangolin on the bottom to spray stinky gas on him.

The Guard still watched on confusion as they see what is transpiring before them as the brothers share a laugh together as Twilight and Kyoga shakes their heads at their antics.

“Are any of you all seeing what I’m seeing?” Applejack asked everyone.

“Phew!” Rarity added as he sees the stinky gas they are spraying. “The stinkiest uncouth thing I’ve ever seen?”

“Those're the biggest baboons I've ever seen!” Bunga commented while plugging his nose while Pinkie does the same while giggling at their antics.

“I don't think they're baboons.” Ono correctly figured.

“Ugh. They sure act like baboons.” Fuli groaned in disgust with their antics.

“I've never seen anyone like them. And I know every animal in the Pride Lands.” Beshte added just as lost.

“That’s because they’re not baboons. They’re gorillas.” Twilight deadpanned as she eyed Kyoga.

“Yep.” She stoically replied while eying Twilight with the same expression.

“Well, they need to leave those pangolins alone!” Kion voiced of what must be done as he prepares to shout a demand at them until Kyoga placed a calming paw on him.

“I’ll handle this.” She said to him as he approached the two gorillas. ”Maajinuni! Hafifu!”

“Kyoga!” The two gorillas immediately greeted her as they dropped the pangolins while rushing over to her.

“How you have been?” Majinuni asked.

“Did you find your brother and sister?” Hafifu asked.

“I’ve been fine. And I did.” Kyoga positively answered as Hafifu then noticed the others standing behind them.

“Oh look! You've brought some friends! What fun!” He commented as the others step forward.

“So, who are you? And what are you doing in the Pride Lands?” Kion inquired to which the two laughed together.

“Ah, well, that's easy. I'm Majinuni, and this is my brother Hafifu.” The gorilla with a lighter shade of gray fur, beige colored chest, and brown eyes introduced.

“We're looking for someone called King Zimba along Princess Zelestia.” The other bulker gorilla with blue eyes a darker shade of gray fur explained.

“One's a "lion" and the other is an “alicorn pony.”? The other brother added.

“I think they mean Simba and Celestia.” Ono realized what they are talking about.

“Really? No way?” Twilight sarcastically remarked with faux surprise.

“Yes! That's right!” Hafifu confirmed. “Do you know them?”

“Yeah, you could say that.” Fuli answered as she rolls along with it.

“If we are here in Zimababwe.” Twilight again voiced with sarcasm as Fuli stifled a giggle as Bunga gestured to the golden furred lion cub.

“Kion here just happens to be the king's son.”

“And Twilight here happens to be the princess’s prodigy.” Pinkie added as she gestured to her lavender colored friend.

“You're a lion?”

“You're a prince?”

The two brothers said in surprise in the lion prince's direction as they share a glance at each other before exclaiming together.

“So are we! So are we!”

“Wait. You guys are lions?” Bunga cluelessly questioned as Twilight face-hoofed herself.

“No, they’re baboons!” Twilight quipped.

“Really?”

“No!”

“Seriously?” Fuli said just as exasperated as Twilight.

“They're princes!” Beshte corrected.

“No wonder we've got so much in common!” Hafifu expressed excitedly while patting the lion cub’s back rather roughly.

“We do?” Kion asked wondering why they say that.

“Our poppa sent us here with a message for your poppa! A really important message!” Majinuni explained before sharing another laugh with his brother while Fuli pulls Kion aside for a quick word.

“Kion, there is no way anyone sent these two with a message for the king and the princess. Look at 'em!”

“Fuli’s right darling…” Rarity agreed. “I mean one would think these gorillas would have at least half a brain.”

They gestured to them as they stuck their tongues out at each other while scratching their hairy foreheads together along with making funny faces.

“Not logically, but they are telling the truth.” Kyoga responded. “Even if these two are huge goof-balls.”

“Majinuni, look! A stick!” Hafifu gestured to Ushari sleeping nearby

“Excuse me? A what?” He incredulously questioned.

“Bet you can't hit that baobab fruit.” Majinuni dared his brother.

“Bet you I can!” He confidently returned.

“No, wait!” Kion yelled out for them to stop.

“STOP!” Fluttershy yelled out to them before they can even throw Ushari to which they both froze upon hearing her sudden sharp voice.

“He is a snake! Not a stick! Now put him down!” She assertively said to them as they both comply with her orders. “I am sorry about that.” She gently apologized to the irritated cobra.

“Every time I get near the Lion and Pony Guard...” He groaned and grumbled.

“Hafifu! What was that?” Kion demanded to know why he nearly did such a thing.

“Uh, 'cause I wanted to throw the stick.” Hafifu casually replied.

“Ushari's not a stick!” Kion corrected as Fluttershy flew back over showing them the cobra in her hooves.

“He’s a snake!” Fluttershy added as the red cobra glares at the bumbling duo ready to bite them in retaliation until he was gently stroked by the peagsus treating him like a friend.

“Uh, he's got a point. As a rule, sticks don't talk.” Majinuni came to realize. “Our bad.” He said to the cobra who just leaped off and slithered away in a huff.

“Ah. Oh, well.” Hafifu shrugged it off. “Kuishi ni kucheka!”

“What does that mean?” Fuli asked.

“It’s their motto.” Kyoga answered.

“That’s right.” Hafifu nodded. “It means, "To live is to laugh!"”

“You know...” Majinuni started before they placed their arms on each other’s shoulders while singing the phrase together. “Right?”

“Uh, nope. Don't know that one.”

“Me neither.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie responded while the others are very confused and befuddled by their words.

“They've never heard of it.”

“How could they never have heard of it? Maybe we should sing it in a different key...”

The two expressed surprise before they prepared to sing it again until they were both cut off by Kyoga.

“That won't be necessary.”

“Look. We'll take you to my dad and the princess so you can give them your message.” Kion said to them as he and Twilight lead the way.

“Now come on. Walk this way.” Twilight gestured them to follow them as they both do so as they picked up Bunga and Pinkie while giving them a little squeeze which caused a couple of farts to come out of them. Bunga’s rear end released a green wave of gas on the rest on the Guard which made the rest of the girls uncomfortable.

“Excuse me!” Pinkie chuckled as Rainbow and Fluttershy flew up from where Bunga passed gas.

“These gorilla-dillas are my kinda guys!” Bunga commented as both Fuli and Rarity sighed in annoyance with their antics.

“I am so good I picked today to wear a mask and bundle up my mane.” Rarity voiced as they all made their way to Pride Rock where both the lion king and alicorn princess are waiting for them.

“Uh, Dad...”

“…Princess Celestia…”

Kion and Twilight began.

“This is probably going to sound weird.” Kion continued.

“What is it, son?”

“What is it, my faithful student?”

Both the king and princess inquired.

“Well, we've found these gorilla brothers who say they...” Twilight continued as Simba finished knowing what they were going to say.

“Have a message for us?”

“Yes. You know them?” Twilight asked.

“Their father is King Sokwe of the Mountain Gorillas.” Simba answered. “A long time ago, he and I made a peace treaty. Now, every wet season, he sends a message to let me know if he still agrees to the peace. Or not.”

“So...Majinuni and Hafifu really do have an important message for you?” Kion asked to make sure they were telling the truth.

“Very important.” Simba confirmed.

“Where are they?” Princess Celestia asked as the two sighed in annoyance.

“They're coming.” Twilight replied as they finally both arrive while juggling both Bunga and Pinkie Pie while walking upside down.

“Ooh! Yeah! Kuishi!”

“Ni kucheka!”

The two brothers traded as the two rulers clear their throats to get their attention.

“Aw, hey, Your Highnesses!“

“Hello! Let us introduce these guys...”

Both the honey badger and party pony began before they cut to the chase.

“Majinuni. Hafifu. You have a message for us?” Princess Celestia asked of them.

“Yes, um, about that...”

“We do have a message... Er, we did, but..”

The two nervously began…

“Boys?” Simba interrogated an immediate answer from them.

“He forgot it!” They both exclaimed while pointing fingers at each other.

“Shocker.” Twilight quipped in a unsurprising tone and expression to Kion.

“Why am I not surprised?” Fuli figured with the same expression and tone while asking Kyoga next to her.

“Because they’re not very bright.” She dully answered.

“I see. This is not good.” Simba commented unsatisfied with what he is hearing before turning to both Kion and Twilight. “I need you two and the Lion and Pony Guard to take the boys back home and find out what King Sokwe's message is.”

“Can't you just send them back and get the message again?” Kion asked thinking it would be easier that way.

“And let peace with the gorillas depend on them?” Simba pointed out to the two boys goofing off again while standing on one foot.

“I bet I can stand on one foot longer than you.”

“So? Bet you can't hop on one foot while patting your nose and rubbing your belly.”

“Got it.” Kion stood corrected.

“Where's their home?” Twilight asked,

“The Theluji Mountains.” Princess Celestia answered.

“Wow! That's a long way off.” Kion remarked.

“Yes, but King Sokwe's sons should know the way.” Simba replied.

“Okay, now let's see who can balance longer on no legs!” The lighter furred gorilla challenged his brother as they both fall onto their rumps while sharing another laugh together.

“Or not.” Twilight dully commented as the Guard wasted no time in heading off together towards the gorilla's home.

“Please tell me we're almost there.”

“Yes, my hooves are already killing me.”

Both Fuli and Rarity wished as they were both getting tired from the long walk.

“We are! We just have to go to the top the mountain and find King Sokwe.”

“It won’t be long now until the two buffoons are out of our manes!”

Ono and Rainbow reported as Kion turned to the two brothers.

“Majinuni, Hafifu. Can you tell us where your dad is?”

“Oh, you know...”

“Up there somewhere.”

The two vaguely responded.

“You guys really don't know how to get home from here?” Kion asked them.

“Sorry. We've never gone up the mountain before.”

“To tell the truth, we've only gone down the mountain once.”

“Yeah, and we rolled most of the way at that!”

The two honestly replied while sharing another hearty chuckle together to which the ponies share an annoyed groan together.

“No surprise there.”

“Seriously?!”

Kyoga and Rainbow Dash voiced as the former leads the way.

“Follow me, everyone. There’s a path up ahead through the trees.” She instructed everyone as heads towards the upcoming mountain as Ono and Rainbow fly over to see it for themselves.

“Great. Then we'll go that way.” Kion voiced now annoyed that they have to take a detour to get them home.

“Thanks for the help.” Fuli sarcastically remarked to them.

“You both really sure were helpful.” Rainbow voiced in the same manner before flying off.

“Well, they were both certainly polite.”

“I know, right? I didn't think we were helpful at all.”

The two traded missing their sarcasm as Twilight groaned before moving forward.

Just as they make their way down the path they spotted a chameleon that turned from green to yellow.

“Hapana! A chameleon!” Ono voiced as Fluttershy quickly joined him with eager eyes.

“One more time?”

“A ka-what-eon?”

Bunga and Pinkie asked.

“A chameleon! A lizard that can change his colors!” Fluttershy corrected but before she can gush over the lizard for long the two brothers both came marching up towards it wanting to roughhouse with it.

“Chameleon hide and seek!” They exclaimed as the chameleon ran out of Fluttershy’s arms and away as the gorillas gave him chase.

“No, wait! Come back!” Kion shouted after them.

“Dang it! Why?!” Kyoga voiced seeing that this isn't the first time they have done this.

“I'm gonna find it.

“No, I'm gonna find it!”

The two playfully argued as they ran into the thick of the forest of trees.

“Ono? Please follow them.”

“Rainbow and Fluttershy? Please do the same.”

Both Kion and Twilight asked of them.

“We’re on it!” Ono voiced on behalf of the three flyers while the others look around for them.

“Hafifu! Majinuni!” Kion called out to them.

“Hello!” Hafifu called out to them.

“Where are you?” Twilight asked them out loud.

“Excellent question! Wish we could say!”

“It is a bit of a puzzler! We can hear you, but we can't see you!”

“Ono?”

“Girls?”

“Sorry, Kion...” Ono reported empty-winged. “The plants are too thick. I can't even see the ground!”

“You smell 'em?” Kion turned to Fuli who tried to track their scent but she too was unable to catch a good whiff.

“Too many weird plants in bloom. I don't think I could even track Bunga's scent here.”

“Yeah, me neither.” Kion agreed as he too was unable to sniff them out. “Hmm...” He thought as he turned to Twilight and Rarity.

“Oh all right!”

“Follow us!”

The two unicorns sighed as they lit their horns so they can use their magic to track them down as Kion calls out to the gorillas.

“Hafifu! Majinuni! Stay still! When I call your names, shout back. We'll follow your voices and find you!”

“Ooh, yes!” Hafifu agreed but then insisted. “But let's make it a game! You shout kuishi, then we shout ni kucheka!”

“Fine.” Kion relented as Twilight and Rarity led the way. “Kuishi! Kuishi!”

“Oh, it's our turn. Ni kucheka!” Majinuni called back.

“Sounds like they're this way.” Bunga voiced as he ran ahead toward’s the voice’s direction.

“Right. Let's go!” Kion led the others into following him until Kyoga stopped him again as she directed their attention to Twilight and Rarity finding them.

“No need.” Twilight stoically replied.

“What do you mean?”

“Three, two, one…“ Rarity counted down with the same expression.

“Kuishi!” Kion called out.

“Ni kucheka!” Majinuni called out just in front of them thinking they have given them the slip. “Oh, heh, you found us! That was fast!”

“Come on you guys!” Kion scolded. “We’re not getting anywhere with you two wandering off like that.”

“There could be dangerous creatures out there waiting to hurt you.” Fluttershy added.

“Aw, come on.” Hafifu shrugged it off.

“What danger could possibly be lurking up there." Majinuni asked.

At that moment they hear the sounds of pig squealing up ahead in the fog appearing in front of them.

“Hey, listen!” Hafifu whispered to his brother.

“Forest hogs!” Majinuni excitedly exclaimed.

“Now hold on a second there!” Applejack warned. “Don’t you go running into that there fog!”

“Here piggies!” The two gorillas just went ahead into the fog anyways.

“Are you kidding me?!” Rainbow groaned as she flied and shouted after them. “She just said not to run in the fog!”

“Even though they aren’t baboons they sure act like them.” Rarity whispered to Fuli while Kion, Twilight, and Kyoga all lead the way.

“Majinuni! Hafifu!” Kyoga called out to them when they heard a loud snort from behind.

“That snort came from behind us.” Fuli whispered as they all turned around while everyone made sure they were ready for any alarms in the fog.

“You think the gorillas split up?” Kion asked.

“Highly unlikely.” Kyoga answered.

“It might possibly be a...” Fluttershy worryingly voiced as a forest hog suddenly appeared and ran right by them.

“…real forest hog! Hapana!” Ono exclaimed as the two gorillas suddenly see it approach them before quickly fleeing for their lives.

“The forest hog! It's after them!” Kion led the way as the hog pursed them.

“Wait for us!” Fuli called after them as followed after them with Applejack swinging her lassoed as she prepares to hogtie the pig.

“Why's the hog acting so mad?” Beshte asked.

“And why are they chasing them”” Fluttershy also asked.

“He must think the gorillas are other forest hogs!” Ono replied.

“But they don’t even look like forest hogs!” Rarity pointed out.

“Maybe they thought they were hogging in on his territory!” Bunga joked. “Get it? Forest hog... Hogging? Ah?”

“I get it!” Pinkie laughed as she the joke too.

“Bunga!” Fuli chastised them.

“Now is not the time for lame jokes.” Rainbow chided.

“Especially when lives are on the line.” Kyoga also scolded them as Kion and Twilight ran off ahead as the forest hog started to close in on the gorillas as they ended up crashing into trees in front of them they didn’t see due to the fog.

Luckily for them Twilight knocked the forest hog off of his feet as Kion tackled it.

“Back off of the gorillas!” Kion growled at him as the hog forced him off as he squared off against him and Twilight.

The forest hog attempted to attack Kion with his sharp tusks to which he barely dodged with Kyoga instantly shooting magic at him from one of her paws with Twilight following it up with another magic blast to disorient him. As he attempted to shake off the bright shock Kion quickly slashes him to knock him back. Rainbow then flew circles around the pig with Applejack quickly tying the aggressive attacker up.

“You can't get to them without going through me.”

“And you're not getting through me.”

Kion and Twilight asserted.

“Or us!”

Kyoga and Fuli asserted as Fluttershy works her stare on the creature who squeals in fright upon gazing into her sharp fiery blazing eyes.

“Now! Don’t you think you owe these two an apology?” Fluttershy crossly said to him as he turned to the gorillas and squealed an oink that translates to “I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay.” Fluttershy then softened up as she petted him on the back. “You’re free to go.”

The forest hog quickly wasted no time in fleeing as soon as Applejack untied him.

“Hafifu? Majinuni? You okay?” Kyoga asked the two as she approached them as they were covering their eyes in fright.

“Uh, surprisingly enough, we are.” Hafifu answered in relief as he and his brother inspected themselves for any injuries.

“Totally unpoked by sharp hoggy tusks!” Majininu noted as he observed no tusk stabs on their fur. “You saved us!”

“Well, sure.” Twilight thought nothing of it.

“That's what we do.” Kion added in the same tone. “Now let's get you home.”

“I've got a better idea.” Majininu proposed. “Let's get chased by the forest hog again!”

“What? Seriously?” Fuli questioned as if they were serious for a moment there.

“Did what just happened a minute ago not ring any bells in your heads that you should be staying away from them those pigs?” Applejack asked rather dumbfounded by that suggestion.

“Guys? Is something else going on?”

“Something that you’re not telling us.”

Beshte and Kyoga asked as the two brothers then got serious for a moment seeing that they have something on them before confessing.

“Well, we haven't been very helpful getting you to our poppa...” Hafifu began.

“Because we don't really want to see him.” Majinuni finished.

“Ah.” Kyoga nodded.

“I knew something was going on!” Kion responded with his suspicions correct. “You couldn't be that silly.”

“Oh, no. We are.” Majininu quickly corrected as they listed off silly’s synonyms.

“Totally silly! Dozy! Dopey! Wacky!”

“Immature and frivolous.”

“That's a lot of words for silly.” Bunga commented as Twilight placed a hoof on Pinkie’s mouth before she can even think of further listing off synonyms that describe silly.

“And that’s enough said.” Twilight said before turning back to the gorilla brothers. “And why don't you want to see your dad?”

“For some reason he's never thought we're prince material.” Majininu explained. “So we decided to show him he's wrong.”

“We volunteered to deliver his really important message. And then we failed miserably.” Hafifu added as they traded each other’s sentences together.

“Now we have to go home and tell him.”

“He's going to put on his...”

“Disappointed face.” They both finished together as they placed their hands over their faces as their smiles turn into frowns.

“I get it.” Kion understood what they are saying.

“So do I.” Twilight voiced the same.

“You do?” They questioned in surprise.

“I never want to let down my dad either. It's the whole reason I'm here.” Kion explained as he dreaded the thought with lowered ears.

“And what about you?” The brothers turned to Twilight as she too had her ears lowered.

“Like Kion, I never want to let down Princess Celestia either. Even though she isn’t technically my mom, I still look up to her as one and we do share that kind of bond together.” Twilight answered with sympathy for the two’s plight.

“We’re really sorry. I wish we could do something to make it easier.” Kion then apologized and hoped.

“Well, you and Twilight did face down a ferocious forest hog. That's almost as hard as facing our dad.” Hafifu pointed out.

“And it seemed like the sort of thing a prince and a princess would do.” Majinuni added.

“We don't exactly feel like princes yet...” Hafifu lamented as Twilight lightly giggled before giving them words of wisdom.

“Well you’re currently looking at someone who isn’t a princess. And if it helps you’ll both come to see it when you realize you are ready to step up to it.”

“Trust us.” Kion reassured. “If you act like a prince, sooner or later, you'll start to feel like a prince.”

“Okay, then.” Majinuni sighed as he and his brother finally relented to get serious now. “We'll take you to our home.”

“Great!” Kion felt pleased to hear it.

“Possibly one last little game?” Hafifu asked of everyone.

“No!”

“All right, this way.” Majinuni relented seeing they have wasted enough time already before making their way out of the fog.

“Not much farther...” He told everyone as they made their way up the mountain and arrived at the snowy mountain before sliding down the slope to which the Lion Guard was amazed at what lies before them. A mountain covered with a white blanket of snow.

“Whee!

“Betcha never seen snow before!” Hafifu questioned the Guard as he held up a snowball.

“Definitely!” Rainbow answered as she and the ponies along with Kyoga nod while the rest of the Guard still examines it with Rarity putting on her winter coat before entering the snowy summit.

Sure they have seen snow before but that was only when helping their friends clean up during Winter Wrap Up.

“And I suppose you all know what do with snow?” Hafifu inquired as the Lion Guard still looks on puzzled. “You have fun!”

He then sling-shot snow from the top of the tree branch right at them before it all landed on their heads.

“Hey!” The Lion Guard exclaimed before the gorilla brothers cheer as they both have their fun.

“Come on! You just going to stand there, or are you going to play?” Hafifu inquired.

“Kion?”

“Twilight?”

Bunga and Pinkie asked.

“I don’t know…” Twilight still voiced unsure to the idea. “We’ve already lost enough time already.”

“Aw, come on Twilight…” Pinkie pleaded and encouraged. “Lighten up and have a little bit of fun.”

“Kion?” Twilight turned to Kion if it is worth one more delay.

“Well... I guess a little fun couldn't hurt.” Kion relented with Twilight shrugging seeing that everyone else is onboard with the idea.

“Yay!”

“All right! Zuka Zama!”

Pinkie and Bunga cheered as they both slid around the snow as Fuli carefully placed a paw on frozen ice along with Rarity following suit.

“It's cold. And slippery!” Fuli voiced as she lost traction when she stepped on the ice and slid off before leaping across. “But it's kinda fun!”

“Whoa!” Rarity exclaimed as she too slid on the ice before giggling as she spun around and skated around it with graceful moves. “It sure is.”

“I want to try. Twende Kiboko!” Beshte voiced as he plowed straight through a mountain of snow.

“Yee-haw.” Applejack shouted as she leaped over the snow mountain Beshte charged through and over the hippo before sharing a high-hoof paw together.

“Whoohoo It's melting on my beak!” Ono laughed as Rainbow enjoyed the melting snow on his tongue.

“It’s melting on my tongue.” Rainbow chuckled as Fluttershy giggled at the snow melting on her nose as even for a pony who tends to yelp over little things, snow is not one of the things that can strike fear into her heart.

“Kion, you've got to try this!” Bunga called out to the only one still reluctant on having fun while he and Pinkie are making snow angels and snow ponies in the ground. “It's un-Bunga-lievable!”

“I don't know, guys.” Kion voiced his uncertainty about the idea. “We should be careful with this stuff. We don't know enough about it.”

“You know it can do this!” Hafifu interjected by tossing a snowball at him to which they both laughed together only to stop when Kion seemed angered by this…

…Before breaking out into laughter himself.

“Oh, it's on. Kuishi ni kucheka!” Kion playfully returned as he slid down the slope while spraying snow on them back as Twilight and Kyoga have gotten in on the fun by using their magic to toss snowballs at each other.

“Hey, Twilight, think fast!”

“Right back at you!”

Everyone laughed they all played in the snow together and had fun like they never had ever since they were young and before they all meet each other.

Kuishi Ni Kucheka

Start at 1:25

Bunga, Pinkie, Applejack, and Beshte all had fun using the nearby slope as a snow slide. Ono and Rainbow had some fun as they sprinkled snow across the sky.

Fuli herself was getting in on the fun as she happily hopped around the snow along with doing a spin as her inner excitement took over. Both Rarity and Fluttershy giggled to which surprised the cheetah before shrugging it off.

Twilight and Kion were both walking when snow plopped down on the latter’s head. Annoyed by it he turns to see Bunga constantly tapping the tree like a drum before playfully tackling him. The two ended up rolling into snow balls with Bunga rolling on top of Kion as a result of the tumble and formed a headless snowman.

Fuli and Rainbow both ran/flew by as they both ran circles around each other before joining Kyoga and the gorilla brothers in a snowball fight as they square off against the Guard in a little snowball war together. During which both Bunga and Pinkie Pie have both created snow balls before working together to plop huge snowballs onto Kyoga, Hafifu and Majinuni. All while living and laughing together.

“That's not to throw at me, is it?” Fuli asked Bunga from behind.

“Or me?” Rarity added and asked Pinkie while standing beside Fuli.

“Nah! It's a souvenir for Uncle Timon.”

“Nope! A personal souvenir to take home with me.”

The two replied while creating their large snowballs just as Kion ran ahead of the two gorilla brothers.

“I could do this all day.” He expressed happily.

“Us too!” Majinuni agreed.

“But we promised we'd get you to our dad.” Hafifu gently pointed out.

“Yeah. I just want to take one more look, so I'll never forget it.” Kion agreed as he backed up a little. But just as he did so the snow he has standing on gave away and he winded up slipping down a slippery slope. “Whoa! Guys? Guys!”

“Kion!” Everyone exclaimed in sudden shock of the lion prince’s rapid descent.

“I'm coming, Kion! Zuka...“ Bunga began following after him until being quickly stopped by the gorilla brothers with a hand to block him from running ahead.

“Sorry for the quick-stop, Bunga. But Kion needs someone who knows the mountain.” Majinuni apologized as he turned to his brother.

“Two someones!” Hafifu added as they both slid down the mountain together while Twilight and Kyoga use their magic to follow after them.

“Kuishi ni kucheka!”

“Ono! Follow Kion!”

“Rainbow, Fluttershy, you two do the same!”

Fuli and Twilight ordered of them as the three flyers wasted no time in flying after them.

“We’re on it!” Rainbow shouted in response as they flew over to catch up with Kion before something can happen to him.

“See you at the bottom, brother!”

“You'll see my bottom, brother! 'Cause I'll get to Kion first!”

The two brothers playfully traded as they followed after Kion sliding after them as he continued slide down the mountain through a log tunnel along the way.

During which the gorilla brothers had some fun as they leaped over trees and skied their way down the mountain just as Kion was barely able to stop himself from completely going over the cliff from the frozen hill. Luckily for him, Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Ono have all managed to fly ahead and catch up with him just as he managed to stop himself from going over the cliff.

“Kion? Are you okay?” Ono asked.

“So far! But I can't hang on long!” Kion answered as his grip on the cliff started to give way to which Rainbow and Fluttershy wasted no time in and quickly lifting him up.

“Come on, Fluttershy! Put your back into it!” Rainbow barked at her as their grip on the Lion Guard’s Fiercest started to slip.

“I’m trying. Nooo….” She asserted and then cried as she tried to hang out as they pulled onto him in a hurry before their grip slipped leading to Kion vulnerable to the high fall doom below him...

…Before being quickly stopped in the nick of time by the gorilla brother who quickly tossed him back up to safety just as Twilight and Kyoga skid to a stop having witnessed the whole thing.

“You saved me. Thanks.” Kion gratefully voiced to them in relief.

“Pfft! No thanks needed. It was fun!” Majinuni shrugged it off.

“Oh no! It was more than that.” Twilight voiced otherwise and that it is much bigger and nobler than they realized.

“It was brave. Doing something like that is what you makes you prince material.” Kion added in agreement.

“You really think we have that in us? The prince thing?“ Hafifu hopefully asked.

“Totally.” Kion nodded before they all regrouped with the others as they all make their way to the gorilla’s den.

“Thanks.” Majinuni thanked as he turned to Twilight. “You know…considering you know a thing or two about being princess and a natural born leader. I think you might make a great princess too someday.”

“Aww, how dare you.” Twilight returned light-heartedly with a slight blush.

“No really…” Hafifu further complimented to make sure they aren’t joking. “…We’re really sure of that considering you’re like brother and sister with Kion.”

“Well thanks…” Twilight just accepted and left it at that feeling touched to the core already from that compliment. “…and forgive me for not leaping for joy. Bad slope to do so you know.” She gestured to the dangerous ice on the hill they are climbing up.

“Just one question…” Majinuni then added as Hafifu brought up the question they are thinking.

“…When we’re princes, what will that make you?”

“A monkey’s aunt.” She dryly replied as the brothers chuckled together.

“You’re so weird.” Majinuni commented as Twilight glanced up at them.

“You have no idea.” She returned with a light smile as both Kion and Kyoga chuckled at the unicorn’s sarcasm before making their way up the hill to regroup with their friends.

Once everyone finally made it to where their home is, they approach and face with their father King Sokwe where they explain to him what happened ever since they left expecting the worst.

“So... You forgot my message to King Simba and Princess Celestia!” The dark brown furred gorilla perched on a pedestal sternly addressed his boys who look down in shame.

“Yes, Poppa.”

“And you got lost coming home from the Pride Lands!”

“Yes, Poppa.”

“And you needed the Lion and Pony Guard to help you get back home!”

“Yes, Poppa.”

“You know what this means.”

“Yes, Poppa.”

“What do you think it means?” Fluttershy whispered to Fuli.

“I wish I knew.” Fuli could only say.

“Nothing too bad, I hope.” Beshte voiced when King Sokwe turns his back…

…and pulls up two piles of snowballs and dumps them on his son’s heads playfully.

“Kuishi ni kucheka!” He laughed as he and his sons share a heartwarming laugh together as the former assures them that it’s no big deal as he leaps down to their eye level.

“Kion and Twilight told me how you saved the former. I'm proud of you both. You are true gorilla princes.”

“Thank you, Poppa.” They both gratefully thanked him as Kion and Twilight stepped forward.

“Um, speaking of your message for my dad? We do need to give it to him.”

“Along with the princess too?”

Both leaders of the Guard brought up.

“Of course you do.” The gorilla king acknowledged as he eyes the snowballs in Bunga and Pinkie’s possession. “I see your friends each have a souvenir from our home.”

“Sure do!”

“Uh... Your Gorilla-ness!”

The two replied as they held up their snowballs.

“Is that's a problem?” Twilight asked.

“No, no. Not at all.” He assured as he places a hand on his chin and he gets an idea after thinking about them. “In fact, it's perfect.”

By the time the Guard makes it back to Pride Rock the sun was already setting with the skies being a mixture of purple and pink much like Twilight’s fur coat and cutie mark colors.

“And, so...

“…Here we are.”

Kion and Twilight finished recalling their journey to Simba and Celestia.

“And did you bring back King Sokwe's message?” Simba asked.

“Uh, yeah...” Kion honestly answered yet is hesitant to give a full answer.

“Well, then…?” The princess inquired with a raised eyebrow.

“It's just...” Twilight hesitated.

“Kion? Twilight? We need the message.” Simba adamantly expected an answer.

“Really?”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes! You have to give it to us!” Simba asserted.

“It’s okay…” Celestia gently assured them so that there is no pressure. “…Just tell us.”

“Okay...” Kion relented with a smile as Twilight did the same with the later delivering the message.

“Kuishi ni kucheka!”

As soon as she said it Bunga and Pinkie immediately leap over both Kion and Twilight as they both plopped the snow balls onto their heads to which it seemed Simba did not take kindly towards while Celestia expresses a look of surprise.

“Sorry, Your Majesty.”

“It really wasn't our idea.”

The two apologized with sheepish grins.

“Oh, no.”

“This might have been a mistake.”

Rarity and Ono fearfully expressed as Simba then suddenly chuckled along with the princess.

“Oh, King Sokwe. No one delivers a peace message like him.” Simba expressed finding it funny as everyone is relieved to see no harm no foul.

"Indeed Simba." Celestia agreed.

“Wow, glad to see you have a sense of humor.” Twilight expressed with a giggle. “Because for a second there it looked like you were going to flip.”

“Well, I did have a friend to help me loosen up a bit to back when I was a young cub.” Simba gently explained as he turned to the alicorn princess who winked at her direction to commend him for taking the joke well.

As both monarchs shake the snow off of their foreheads while everyone else laughs seeing this is something worth living and laughing about true to the gorilla king’s words.

Author's Note

Here we have the Guard escorting the two gorilla princes Hafifu and Majinuni back home while obtaining their father King Sokwe's message to King Simba and Princess Celestia after they forgot it along the way.

Not much to explain other than editing out some of the gorilla brothers shenanigans to downplay their annoyance to the main cast and some of the fans. And of course the Character Development for the titular duo as they proven what it takes to be prince material just like they hoped their father would see them for.

Next up is "Read it and Weep." as Rainbow Dash makes an interesting discovery about herself when she gets admitted to the hospital after an unfortunate flying accident.

Episode 25: Read It and Weep

Episode 25:

Read it and Weep

On a nice clear day, Rainbow Dash is currently performing some dare-devil techniques and moves with Fuli watching from down on the ground to coach her with Rarity, Ono, and Pinkie all there to watch just as Twilight and Kion arrive.

“Hey, Rarity.“

“Hey, Fuli.”

“Hey, Ono.”

“Hey, Pinkie Pie.”

The two traded as they greeted their friends.

“What are you all looking at?” Twilight asked everyone as they witness Rainbow move her flight moves.

“Rainbow Dash! Isn't she the most daring devil? I mean, the most devilish darer? I mean—“ Pinkie rambled with a lot of adjectives as Rarity spoke up.

“She's dazzling!” She complimented.

“She is very fast.” Ono added.

“She is doing an awesome job with her performance.” Fuli added as she suddenly saw something she didn’t like as she tried to rush over to where Rainbow is flying to correct her flight pattern. “Whoa! Rainbow! Rainbow! Easy there! Easy there!”

“Ooh, yeah, that's a good word. She's dazzling!” Pinkie agreed with Rarity’s compliment as they all awed at the sight to which Pinkie literally got herself twisted around when spinning her head around.

Then came the parts of the flying to which Rainbow started to lose control of and was now on collison course.

“Oh no, oh no, oh no!”

“Ai yi yi yi yi!”

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“Hapana!”

As Fuli rushes over to try to stop her from crashing she sees one obstacle ahead of her…Kyoga who just happened to be walking by just as Rainbow’s about to crash into her.

“Kyoga! Look out!” Fuli alerted her.

“What!” She returned before seeing too late what’s going to crash into her. “Whoa!”

It was too late, and Rainbow does a crash landing on Kyoga which knocked and injured them both upon impact.

“Oohh.” Everyone all said together as they cringed at the sight of the impact.

“So much for dazzling.” Pinkie commented.

“Yep. And they are both sure going to feel that in the morning.” Fuli voiced as she and the others rush over to the two so they can get them to the hospital.

When both Rainbow and Kyoga have arrived in the hospital and by the time they were both settled in, they both came too as they were both greeted with their friends muffled voices as they started to awake.

“Are they gonna be okay?”

“Oh, I'm so worried!”

“Is her face gonna stay that way?”

Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie all expressed as they both woke up so they can see and hear clearly.

“Ow, what happened?” Kyoga asked as she finds herself on a hospital bed wearing a gray hospital gown waking up first. “Am I in the hospital?”

“Yes you are.” Kion replied. “Rainbow Dash was doing some daredevil stunts in the sky when he ended up losing control and crashing into you.”

“Sorry, I didn’t warn you in time.” Fuli apologized.

“It’s okay I…” Kyoga voiced as she tried move out of bed only to feel pain in her back. “Ouch!” She slightly exclaimed as she finds herself unable to get right out of bed without a twinge of pain in her spine.

“Easy, Kyoga.” Fluttershy advised against anymore attempts. “Your back took a quite a bruising from falling backwards onto the ground from the crash.”

“A back injury?” Kyoga inquired.

“Correct, young lion.” The unicorn doctor with a light orange fur coat, brown hair, blue eyes wearing a white doctor’s coat answered as she showed her the x-rays. “And I gotta admit you are one very lucky girl because you could have lost one a leg had you not landed on your back and had your friends not gotten you here when they did.”

“Well isn’t that just sweet having so much luck work out in my favor.” Kyoga remarked in a snarky manner as the other chuckled seeing her affectionate way of showing friendship as Rainbow fully wakes up and sees that her wing is bandaged up.

“Awwww.” She complained as she lied on her back.

“How is she, doctor?” Twilight asked.

“She's going to be fine.” He replied as he examined her x-rays. “Luckily she has friends like you who got her over here in a jiffy.”

“Huh, how long do I need to lie here? I've got things I need to do!” Rainbow questioned with crossed arms.

“Well, that all depends on your recovery, but I'd say a few days minimum.” The doctor answered.

“You guys have gotta get me out of here!” Rainbow pleaded of her friends as she turned to Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. “I'm gonna climb the walls!”

“Ooh, just like a spider!“ Pinkie exclaimed as Bunga turned to the doctor.

“Did the crash somehow give her super-duper spider powers?” He inquired as he leaped onto him.

“Nnnno,” He replied as he turned away leaving Bunga in mid-air for a second before falling face-first into the ground. “Nor did it give her amazing healing powers. She needs to stay in bed for a few days.”

“Few days? Might as well be a few months, or a few years!” Rainbow groaned as she lied back on her pillow feeling it’ll be longer.

“It's not so bad, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy assured her.

“I bet the chow in here is hoof-lickin' good.” Applejack encouraged.

“And the hospital gowns, they...match the curtains!” Rarity added as she holds up said nearby gown right next to the nearby curtains.

“And look! You have a roommate!” Pinkie presented Rainbow to Kyoga sitting on the opposite bed.

“Kyoga?” Rainbow questioned with surprise to see her here.

“Hello.” She casually greeted. “How nice of you to crash into me.” She sarcastically added as Rainbow realizes that she is here because she crashed into her.

“Oh my gosh, Kyoga. I am so sorry!” She quickly apologized. “I didn’t break your legs did I?”

“Rainbow Dash!” She sharply said to her to get her. “It’s okay.” She then calmly said. “You just sprained by back and like your wing it’s just a few days of bed rest.”

“Oh.” She groaned through a combined feeling that she is only stuck here for a few days but is also responsible for the reason Kyoga is here and nearly did permanent damage to her just after having the damage Scar did to her reversed.

Twilight not wanting to see Rainbow suffer like this tries to think of something that would help cheer her up. She looked around as she scratched her chin until she came across an idea in the hallway. She saw a nurse cart off a shelf full of books and presenting her with a book and placed it next to her side.

“What's this?” She asked as she looked at the book Twilight gave her. “'Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone'.”

“This is the first story in the series. I own all of them.” She explained with a squee thinking she’ll love this story.

“No thanks. I so don't read.” She refused as she tossed the book aside. “I'm a world-class athlete. Reading's for eggheads like you, Twilight. Heh, no offense, Ono…” She said in the egret’s direction. “…but I am not reading. It's undeniably, unquestionably, uncool.”

“Excuse me?!” Ono returned rather offended by that remark. “Well then…” He said as he flew away in a huff while everyone including Kyoga laughed at what Rainbow said about books.

“Is she serious?” Applejack asked finding it a joke. “Who doesn't like to read a bang-up tale from time to time?”

“I know I do.” Bunga stated as he read one of the books from the shelves. “The books on adventures are so Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“Why, a good book is almost as magnificent as silk pajamas on a Sunday morning, heh!” Rarity expressed there’s no harm in reading.

“Reading is for everypony, Rainbow Dash!” Twilight added in agreement as she levitated the book back onto her bed. “Even Fuli reads a book from time to time.”

“That’s true.” She nodded.

“Yeah! I love reading, and my head isn't even close to the shape of an egg!” Pinkie added as she hopped up and down. “It's more the shape of an apple, or maybe an orange, but a big orange! More like a grapefruit really...”

“Right.” Kyoga just commented before turning to Twilight. “…Think there is a book about magic on one of those shelves you can grab for me since I’m going to be here a while?”

“Sure thing, Kyoga.” Twilight happily obliged as she pulled out and handed her the requested item.

“All right, my little ponies.” The lady nurse at the door called to them. “Rainbow Dash and Kyoga need their rest. You'll have to come back tomorrow.”

Everyone complied with the nurse’s wishes as they all left the room one by one as Twilight had one thing left to say to Rainbow Dash.

“I think you'd like Daring.” Twilight explained to her as she prepared to leave. “She's a lot like you. Adventurous, fierce, and undeniably, unquestionably, unstoppable.”

As Twilight leaves the room as Rainbow throws a dismissing hoof from behind her back still asserting her stance on the matter although she will come to see otherwise during her time in the hospital.

For the following few hours, while Kyoga was resting on her bed no problem aside from her broken back, Rainbow can’t find anything to keep herself busy for long. Bouncing a ball repeatedly against the wall didn’t last long due to the ball eventually not generating enough momentum to bounce back to Rainbow’s hoof.

Lunchtime consisted of mashed green vegetables, juice, and gelatin dessert. Rainbow drank her drink with her lips only ended up briefly having a glass stuck on her snout. Fortunately for her it only lasted until after Rainbow released her grip on the glass when she tried to pull it off to which Kyoga chuckled at the sight of.

Sometime later in the afternoon, Rainbow was repeatedly turning her lamp on and off repeatedly which annoyed Kyoga as she was trying to get some sleep.

“Rainbow Dash.” Kyoga calmly addressed to the irritated Pegasus while wearing a sleeping mask to cover her eyes from the on and off glare the lamp produced. “Please stop that. Your roommate is attempting to get some sleep here.”

“Sorry, but I can’t stand being confined here.” Rainbow couldn’t help it as her roommate briefly removed her mask.

“I understand, but please keep it down.” Kyoga responded as she put her sleeping mask back on while pulling the curtain to cover her side of the room.

“Okay.” She groaned as she flipped off the lights for the final time before letting the lioness go to sleep.

Although seconds later, Rainbow couldn’t help but growl with how time is moving to slow for her since it has still been only a few hours since she and Kyoga were admitted to the hospital. She really wants to get out of here but can’t.

So with no other options at this point unless she really wants to get on Kyoga’s bad side she decides to give the book Twilight recommended she read to pass the time a shot to which she opens the book and starts reading.

"As Daring Do trekked through the tropical jungle, the wet heat sapped her energy and slowed her every step. If only she could escape this oppressive atmosphere and fly up into the cool blue sky.” She began from the first page unenthusiastically. “But her crash landing in the jungle had injured her wing and she was grounded for a few days.

“Few days... it might as well be a few months, or a few years!" She then thought seeing the parallels between herself and Daring Do as she looks back at her injured wing. “Huh. I'm right there with you, sister.”

As Rainbow continues reading, Kyoga while sleeping listens full-well with open ears sensing that she is really getting warmed up to the book as starts reading beyond the first page. Everything that transpired in the story happened exactly as she described.

"The mosquitoes buzzed loudly. The macaws cried from the high trees. Yet all of these distracting noises were not enough to cover the sound of the predators following her every step. Safely landing on the other side, Daring finally allowed herself a moment to breathe. She turned around to find herself face to face with the long lost temple that she had sought tirelessly for over sixty days and nights!"

When Rainbow finished reading up to that part she noticed Kyoga smirking at her direction.

“So what was that about reading is for eggheads like Twilight and Ono?” Kyoga teasingly asked.

“Okay, you got.” Rainbow admitted after shaking off her embarrassed shock. “I hate to admit it to myself, and would really hate to admit it to my friends, but... I love this story! I, I... I love reading! I'm an egghead.”

“I don’t know if I would say egghead but point being there’s nothing to be ashamed about loving to read.” Kyoga then said in an understanding tone yet couldn’t help but snicker of how she is now eating her own words. “But anyways, go ahead and keep reading. Don’t mind me while I sit back and rest.”

"The smell of decay and danger hit Daring Do as she peered into the dimly-lit entrance of the ancient temple." She continued narrating as Daring Do does exactly that in chapter two of the story.

The Pegasus pony in question had a brown coat of fur, a grey mane and tail with both light and dark shades, and crimson red eyes just like Rainbow’s along with a matching hairstyle as her, wearing a green safari outfit and a white hat. Like Rainbow Dash her right wing was injured at the time and covered with a white bandage so it could heal properly.

She was on her way to the ancient temple ahead when she is suddenly finding herself surrounded by a group of cats circling her. A black panther, a lynx, a tiger, a cheetah, and a white house cat. She was taken back realizing she is in a tough situation with no way to fight back without further injuring herself upon being cornered by them until she saw the house cat appear giving her an escape angle. She leaped over the white cat who screeched upon being nearly run over by the larger and more intimidating cats before hitching a ride on one of them while they all give Daring Do a chase.

She braved through the harsh and dangerous terrains of the jungle swiftly moving and dodging trees left and right before appearing in front of a deep chasm. Thinking quick with the army of vicious felines gaining on her, she leaps up and grabs onto one of the hanging vines hanging from the tree on the other side which allowed her to make her way across safely while all of the cats watch on awe while Daring Do proudly smirks upon escaping the jaws of their teeth. She landed on the ground to allow herself time to catch her breath before continuing forward to the temple she had been long and tirelessly searching for.

She slowly made her way through the temple full alert of anything. As bats with glowing red eyes watch her, she stumbles upon her first booby trap activated by one of the floor tiles. She ducked as she barely dodged sharp axes that nearly decapitated her had she not ducked.

Next thing she knows she is barely dodging a large fiery flame from the trap door along crawling out of range of hungry and enormous gators from the ceiling. Followed by dodging more axes, arrows, along with dodging deadly spikes from the floor all while barely squeezing by the closing trap door in front of her.

She let loose a sigh of relief once she was safe for the moment…

…at least before giving an exasperated sigh upon having to quickly dodge more booby traps with the only near casualties being her hats catching multiple arrows in it as she retreats to the next upcoming room in the temple.

She makes her way forward as she approaches a blue sparkled prized statue made of two ancient conjoined dogs together with a blue gem at the bottom of the statue. As Daring Do eyed the prized treasure…

…in the present Rainbow Dash heard knocking on the door to which she quickly hid the book under her bed as Twilight, Kion, Ono, and Fluttershy all came inside the room.

“Hi, Rainbow Dash! Hi Kyoga!” They greeted while Ono only greeted Kyoga still unhappy with the former’s earlier insult directed at him and Twilight.

“Uh, hey, guys...”

“Hello, girls.”

The two returned with the former more caught off-guard by their sudden appearance.

“We thought we'd come and cheer you up!” Fluttershy said to Rainbow Dash as Twilight presented her a board game onto her bed.

“We brought your favorite board game!” Twilight presented to her it.

“We know how much you like to win!” Fluttershy added.

“You go first, Rainbow Dash!” Twilight offered.

“No no, you first.” Rainbow insisted otherwise with a nervous laugh which left the three rather surprised.

“Alright,” Twilight accepted her decision none of the less. “Uh... cloud three.”

“Aw, shucks, you... rained on my cumulus, heh.” She quickly answered without even trying to play. “Go again!”

“Um... sky five?” Fluttershy guessed.

“Whoa, you found my seagull.” Rainbow repeated as she tossed aside her seagull as Kion, Ono, and Kyoga watch and find it rather strange for her.

“Odd?” Ono quirked.

“Uh... cloud two?” Twilight guessed.

“You zapped my weather pony!” Rainbow responded again along with the same answers to the rest of her clouds not even giving herself a turn. “Uh-huh, you stung my bumblebee. Oh, my thunderbolt. Aw, and that's my last cloud. You found it. Guess you guys win, I lose.”

“But Rainbow Dash, you, you didn't even get a turn.” Fluttershy pointed out as she tried to force the game closed back shut in its case.

“You win some, you lose some.” She quickly returned.

“But you don't lose some.” Twilight suspiciously pointed out. “I don't think you've ever lost a game of—“

“Thanks for coming!” Rainbow interrupted with a fake yawn.

“But yesterday you were desperate for things to do!” Twilight further questioned.

“Do? Who said anything about Daring Do?” She answered defensively as she gave the game back to Twilight. “I told you I'm not interested in reading." *yawns* It's nap time for me!” She yawned again while turning off the light and then proceeded to snore mockingly.

“Glad we could... cheer you up?”

“Alright then.”

The two girls just accepted it there while turning over to Kyoga with the game on hoof.

“Kyoga, did you want to play?” Twilight offered.

“Sure!” She happily accepted as she pulled the curtain across so Rainbow won’t see them while she can secretly read much to her delighted surprise that Kyoga is willing to keep her secret in exchange for being able to spend time with their friends.

“Hmm, how very odd!” Ono commented as he noted that Rainbow was acting strange ever since she got here. “I wonder if she is hiding something?”

Once Rainbow was certain nopony would hear her she got back to reading, picking up at the start chapter three right where she left off.

"Daring Do stood at the entrance to the central temple chamber. At last, she was face-to-face with the legendary sapphire statue!"

As Daring Do is eager to approach the statue she quickly reminded herself that the room is booby-trapped like the ones before her. She examined the room of where all of the potential death traps can spring onto her if so much as a single trap is set off. She flicked a pebble into the room which released a dozen arrows across the wall.

“Hmm, there must be a pattern here.” Daring Do examined as she scratched her chin while looking upon the animals on the floor tiles. “What do all these animals have in common? Ah-ha!” She realized the trick to avoid setting off the death traps. “These animals are all predators... except... rats!” She stepped on the tile and to her relief nothing happened. “Phew!”

By leaping from every rat tile, she was able to reach the coveted prize she has been searching for. She examined the area to make sure there are no traps. She wipes the growing sweat on her forehead along with rubbing her hooves together…

“Aw, to heck with it.” She thought in her mind before simply taking the statue from its pedestal and placing it under her hat.

But what she didn’t realize until a little too late was that by doing so, she accidentally overlooked a trap she had just triggered which caused the temple to start collapsing.

She tried to make a run for it but suddenly finds herself trapped around a pit of rising lava leaving her no choice but to get to higher ground.

As the temple further collapsed and prepared to submerge under the lave she sees the crumbling statues along with an open hole in the ceiling.

“This is her opening.” She thought as she calculated her approach as she leaped up to her escape exit just before her hooves could come in contact with the lava. But not without being blasted out of the temple by steam and smoke as the temple erupted like a volcano.

Just as she landed on the ground she is suddenly finding herself face to face with a giant creature that resembles a dog with eyes on his nose, an extra hand on the back of his tail, dark blue fur, bright blue colored underbelly, and red and golden accessories looking down on her.

“Hello, Rainbow Dash!”

“Hi, Kyoga!”

Pinkie Pie and Bunga suddenly greeted them as she, Bunga, Beshte, Applejack, Rarity, and Fuli all come inside to visit them to which Rainbow quickly hides the book from under her pillow.

“How's our patients doing today?” Rarity asked.

“Getting better.” Kyoga replied. “Just as long as I listen to the doctor’s orders.”

“That’s good to hear.” Fuli complimented.

“Getting any better?” Beshte added as Applejack took notice of sweaty she is getting out of nervousness rather than being overheated.

“Ugh, we need to get some fresh air in here.” Applejack voiced. “You're lookin' sweatier than a pig wrangler on a summer's day.”

“Uh, well, guys, thanks for visiting, but—“ Rainbow began as the nurse arrived with fully-prepared meals in tow.

“Okay, now, dinner time for Rainbow Dash and Kyoga.” Another nurse called out to her patients.

“Oh, just in time.” Rainbow voiced seeing this as an excuse to avoid talking to her friends. “I am sooo hungry.”

“Oh, well, don't mind us, Rainbow Dash.” Rarity let her do so.

“Yeah, just go ahead and eat up.” Applejack added as they all turned to Kyoga seeing that Rainbow is eating rather messy and noisy to avoid a conversation just so she can get back to reading her book.

“So anyways…” Fuli started while disturbed by her poor etiquette. “…how are you doing, Kyoga?”

“Doing fine wouldn’t be long until I get leave the hospital.” Kyoga answered.

“That’s good!” Beshte replied.

“Find anything to keep you busy since you got here?” Bunga asked.

“Well now that you mention it…” Kyoga answered while presenting everyone the book Twilight gave her. “…I have been finding myself getting into this book of magic. Here I have learned more about what kind of magic I can do. Along with how to control my emotions more now that I am free of the dark magic that had plagued my heart ever since dealing with the Outsiders.”

“Poa!” Beshte commented.

“Un-Bunga-veilable!” Bunga added.

“Sounds very exciting!” Pinkie squeed upon seeing how much she is getting into reading.

“Sure is.” Kyoga replied while turning to Rainbow with a knowing look. “It’s amazing what can happen if you open up your eyes a little more if you give something a chance.”

“Do tell!” Pinkie encouraged her to tell them more to which she gladly did as Rainbow turned away while continuing to eat her food seeing that Kyoga is taking pleasure in doing this as a price for willingly keeping her secret.

Once they head left after a lengthy conversation that lasted well into the night, Rainbow pulled out her book again and continued reading heading into chapter four.

"'You thought you could evade me and capture the relic for yourself, but you are sadly mistaken, Miss Do.' The large dog-like creature addressed to her in the story. “And now, you shall meet your doom!“

As Daring Do barely crawled forward the giant blew on a cat whistle to summon his minions to capture her while he laughs seeing that she has the defeated adventurer at his mercy.

“Whoa! Who is this dude?” Rainbow voiced very curious of this new adversary she is facing as she reads the part where she gets captured and tied up back inside the temple.

“You won't get away with this, Ahuizotl!” Daring Do defiantly struggled under her restraints.

“But I already have.” He simply replied as he pulled the nearby lever before making his escape with his cat followers by his side.

“Not again...“ Daring groaned in an exasperated tone as she finds herself facing another inevitable death trap.

Walls with large sharp spikes to sandwich her with venomous spiders and snakes crawling out of holes as the table she is trapped is starting submerge under quicksand.

It was another do or die situation with no way of knowing of how she’ll escape the clutches and claws of death this time around when…

“Rainbow Dash?” The doctor happily called out to her who is currently reading her book under the bed-sheets with a lantern of fireflies in it as her source of light as she scrambled out from under her covers where she also sees Kyoga standing off from her bed while wearing a back brace around her waist.

“H— oh, good evening—“ Rainbow stumbled as she greeted him.

“Morning.” He politely corrected.

“—morning. Doc.” She properly finished as she quickly looks out to see the sun rising meaning she has obviously been up all night reading her first favorite book.

“Have you been up all night?” The doctor asked as he examined the lantern.

“Uh, of course not.” Rainbow lied while blowing the lantern along the fireflies out the window.

“Well, I'll be quick.” The doctor then said with a chuckle. “Congratulations, Rainbow Dash, Kyoga, we're checking you both out of the hospital.”

“That’s great!” Kyoga expressed with a pleased expression while Rainbow’s reaction was quite the opposite.

“What? Later today?” She questioned as she started biting her hoof.

“No. Right now!” The doctor corrected.

“Right now?! 'Right now' right now?” Rainbow questioned again.

“'Right now' right now.” The doctor confirmed as two nurses happily placed Rainbow Dash in a wheelchair while removing her hospital gown and bandages while Kyoga happily makes her way to the door as Rainbow is carted out of the hospital.

“But I don't feel better!” Rainbow protested.

“Now take it easy, Rainbow Dash. Remember to stay off that wing for a week.” He instructed her as they made their way through the hallway before turning to Kyoga. “And as for you, just wear that brace over your back for the next week and avoid any strenuous back-breaking labor and your back will be completely healed.”

“No problem, doctor. Thanks again.” She said to him as they made their way out the front door while waving goodbye to the staff.

“How will I ever find out what happens to Daring Do?!” Rainbow exclaimed as she got out of her wheelchair and paced around the front of the building. “Is Ahuizotl going to get away with the statuette? What's gonna happen to Daring?!” She thought as she remembered something. “Ah-ha! Twilight has a copy of the book!” But then she thought. “Uh, but I can't ask her after I called her an egghead and all...”

She then fell to the ground and on her back as Kyoga shook her head.

“Rainbow…” She began. “…Just go to Twilight and admit that you loved the book you presented her. There’s no shame in liking to read.”

“Ugh, this is making me sick all over again!” Rainbow groaned not listening to her as she suddenly thought of a devious idea in her head as she smiled.

“Oh boy.” Kyoga groaned as she rolled her eyes seeing what she is going to do next as she walks inside holding a hoof on her forehead.

“Owww...“ She grunted in pain unrealistically and dramatically. “Oh, the pain... the pain!”

“Rainbow Dash! What are you doing here, a-anything wrong?” The doctor asked worryingly as Kyoga follows after Rainbow with an unimpressed and stoic look.

“Well, uh, my wing!” Rainbow pointed to her left wing. “It's still hurtin', Doc. Oh, ouch! Right there.

“I was touching your good wing.” The doctor pointed out.

“Uh, right. Well, I think that one's hurting now too.” Rainbow continued trying to maintain the lie even though it is pretty clear to everyone she is not fooling them.

“I think I know what the trouble is.” The doctor chuckled as he smiled. “A severe case of lazy-itis.” He added with a serious expression as he escorts the whimpering Pegasus back outside with Kyoga following after her with the same expression.

“B-But, you got me all wrong, Doc! I'm not being lazy!” Rainbow again protested.

“You're fine, Rainbow Dash. Give it some time and you'll be right back in the swing of things.” The doctor asserted before walking back inside.

“Good day, Rainbow Dash.” The first nurse politely stated as she followed after the doctor.

“Take care!” The other doctor added as she followed suit.

“And to think you actually believed they would buy that?” Kyoga chided her.

“What am I gonna do?” Rainbow wondered out loud not paying any attention to that. “I'll never get to sleep without knowing what happens to Daring Do!” She then paused as she thought of another idea. “...Which may not be such a bad thing...”

“All right.” Kyoga relented as she walked off ahead. “Don’t let me stop you from learning things the hard way.”

Once it was nighttime, Rainbow put her little plan into action as she donned a black cat burglar costume and snuck inside the hospital the very second all of the lights were turned off.

But unbeknownst to her, another masked individual had the same idea. Although he had his face and tail covered up all the way unlike Rainbow as he effortlessly repeated his stealth mode entrance.

Rainbow had to quickly dodge security as the guard came outside with a flashlight in tow to see if anyone was lurking around outside before she could enter. As she retreated to the platform just above the entrance she saw the open window on the top floor. A window that leads to the floor and room to where she and Kyoga previously stayed in.

With her previous knowledge of knowing which room she was in during her visit she was able to get back in. She finds the book right under the bed where she was previously resting on during her stay. Once she had the book, she picked up right where she left off.

At the same time the mysterious masked figure also entered the room and creaked the door loud enough for one of the patients to hear Rainbow secretly read in low tone.

“Feels like the harder I struggle, the tighter the ropes get!” Daring Do struggled with her restrains…

…before Rainbow was interrupted by the bald pony in her former bed alerted by her sudden appearance.

“Help! Burglar, burglar! Someone's trying to steal my slippers!” He exclaimed in alarm upon seeing Rainbow Dash in his cat burglar costume.

“I'm not trying to steal your slippers, I'm trying to steal this book!” She quickly and calmly urged him to quiet down as he emerges from under the bed but was quickly greeted to nearly being hit by a lamp by the patient forcing her to retreat.

“Stop, thief!” One of the nurses sounded the alarm as she and the other nurses and doctors immediately appeared and surrounded her.

She tried to fly away but couldn’t get far due to her wing still hurting which led her to have a small crash-landing into the shelf of books. She looked around for the book but was unable to find as it was snatched up by another disguised thief who Rainbow couldn’t get a good look at. The guy literally was unrecognizable as he grabbed another book from the scattered pile before making his leave in the opposite direction before being spotted.

Seeing no other choice, Rainbow was forced to flee on hoof with the security and doctors all pursuing her. The alarm sounded as the sound of guard dogs is heard not too far behind. Along with the security guard, nurse and doctor they were right on her tail as they continue the chase into Ponyville which passed by Sugarcube Corner.

“Hey, nopony invited me!”

“Yeah what gives?”

Both Pinkie and Bunga complained as the staff continues their hot pursuit of Rainbow Dash while the smaller thief watches unnoticed from tree to tree.

The chase continued to the park where Rainbow sees a gap in between them much like in her Daring Do novel. By using one of the nearby vines she was able to swing across the gap over the small stream of water. But it didn’t shake off her pursuers as there was the footbridge right next to it as they pursed Rainbow right by Carousel Boutique.

“Huh! Hasn't anypony heard of beauty sleep?” Rarity complained as she woke up from the commotion.

The chase continued as they make their way by Golden Oaks Library where Twilight, Kyoga, and Ono were awaken by the commotion outside as the staff caught up to Rainbow Dash.

“Rainbow Dash, what in the world is going on?” The unicorn doctor questioned in a demanding tone. “Why are you stealing slippers?”

Said barking came from a mental unstable mare who is capable of actually performing dog barks.

“Hey, get back to the hospital!” The security guard ordered her to do so as he followed after her to make sure of that while the rest of the Guard arrives on the scene.

“What’s all the kerbubble.” Beshte popped the question everyone is thinking.

“Yeah, what's all the ruckus?” Applejack asked.

“Mmm, I'd say it's more of a fracas than a ruckus.” Pinkie felt the need to correct.

“No, no, it’s a ruckus.” Bunga corrected.

“What's going on, Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked as she and the doctor cast interrogating looks at her direction.

“I'm an egghead.” Rainbow sighed as she confessed.

“Pardon?”

“Come again?”

“One more time?”

Rarity, Ono, and Kyoga asked for clarification.

“See, I was trying to get back into the hospital to finish the last chapter of—“ Rainbow further explained as Twilight finished realizing exactly what she is talking about.

“—'Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Statue'!”

“So, you’re into reading too, huh?” Ono said smugly with this revelation in light. “Well, looks like you’re an egghead too.”

“You got me.” She returned in defeat.

“Wow, I knew the book was good, but I didn't know it could drive a pony to petty theft!” Twilight commented.

“Good? Try awesomely amazing.” She emphasized how much she loved it. “That book is undeniably, unquestionably, un-put-down-able! But then I had to put it down; I was sent home before I could finish it.”

“Is that what this is all about?” Kion asked rather surprised by her reasons but at the same time made perfect sense. “Well, that explains your unusual behavior at the hospital.”

“Well, I'm glad that's all this is about.” Twilight felt pleased as everyone else gathers around her to assure there is no shame in liking to read.

“There's no reason to go around causin' a ruckus…” Applejack began.

“Fracas!” Pinkie felt the need to correct her.

“...causin' a fracas just because you like to read.” She properly finished for Pinkie’s sake.

“Everyone here does it.” Fuli added. “Even athletes like me.”

“You too?” Rainbow inquired rather surprised.

“Of course.” She nodded. “How do you think I got the idea of what flight patterns and movements for you to work on during all of that training?”

“Wow?” Rainbow sheepishly chuckled how about that before turning to the egret. “Ono, I’m sorry I offended you by calling you an egghead the other day.”

“Well seeing that you have learned your lesson, I’ll let it slide this time.” Ono replied as he accepted his apology. “Egghead.” He snickered back at her to which Rainbow accepted feeling she really deserved that.

“Like Twilight said, doesn’t hurt to read.” Fuli said with a teasing jab and grin as she returned finding it rather silly herself that she resorted to petty theft over this.

Once everything was all settled and good with everyone, Twilight directs Rainbow’s attention to her collection of the Daring Do series on one of the shelves in her library.

“Like I said, I have every book in the series, and you can borrow them all, any time you like!” Twilight said while presenting her the book she had yet to finish to which Rainbow happily accepted.

“Oh, thanks, Twilight.” She gratefully responded. “I'm sorry I made such a big deal about all of this. I thought reading was just for smart ponies like you.”

“Rainbow Dash, just because you're athletic doesn't mean you aren't smart!” Twilight assured her.

“And like I said, liking to read is nothing to be ashamed of.” Kyoga added.

“Yeah, just look at me!” Spike added as he kissed his very small muscles to which the others returned slightly disturbed expressions before resuming sweeping up the place in anger.

“Reading is something everypony can enjoy, if they just give it a try.” Twilight then continued to Rainbow Dash.

“Yeah, I get it. I shouldn't knock something until I've tried it.” Rainbow admitted as she scratched the back of her head.

“That's a great lesson, and it would make a great letter to the Princess.” Twilight commended her.

“Indeed it would.” Ono agreed.

“Did you get all that?” Rainbow asked Spike.

“Yeah?” He replied as he paid more focus to the little dust on the floor he had yet to collect.

“Great! You write the letter, I've gotta finish this book!“ She happily stated before grabbing her requested book before running back off home in Cloudsdale to do so all while Twilight, Ono, Kyoga, and Spike all smile seeing her have a change of heart towards reading.

In the fifth and final chapter, Daring Do is currently struggling with her restraints as she once again looks to her surroundings. Acting quickly she sling shot her hat across the room hoping her luck is still in her favor. Luckily for her, her hat flipped the lever thus saving herself in the nick of time before her mouth could sink under the quicksand. Once the quicksand had sunk back down with the spikey walls backing off, the door to her escape opened up for her as she was able to free herself from the table.

“Another day, another dungeon!” She said to herself as she puts her hat back on and sets out to pick up where she left off.

Meanwhile in his royal throne room, Ahuizotl is currently petting his small white cat while the other larger cats are all sleeping around his throne.

“With Daring Do out of the way, the world will suffer mightily at my hands. I am victorious!“ He triumphantly declared with an evil laugh holding the statue until it was suddenly snatched from the paw of his tail.

“I'll take that!” Daring stated as she swooped in through a vine swing.

“Huh? Wha—? Noooooooo!” He screamed upon this sudden turn of events.

“Better luck next time, Ahuizotl!” She simply returned as she adjusted her hat before making her leave.

“Curse you, Daring Do!” He swore before crying in defeat as she ran off ahead in the sunset.

"And so, with Ahuizotl defeated, and the sapphire statue secured..." Rainbow read from the comforts of her bedroom. “...The world was safe and sound once again, thanks to Daring Do!" Rainbow sighed in admiration for she never thought she would see the day she would come to like reading.

Really into the series now seeing of how much alike she is to Daring Do, she picks up and starts reading the second book.

“'Daring Do and the Griffon's Goblet'. Awesome!”

Elsewhere on the outskirts of Ponyville, the masked figure after making his escape pulled out the books he managed to obtain. The Daring Do book along with the book about learning how to control magic and emotions when purified of dark magic. While keeping the former in tow, he puts more focus on the latter as he starts reading it.

As he continues reading the reading the book, he takes off the part of the costume revealing his face and head revealing himself as Scar once again. As he reads the book about magic with content and sinister interest as he sports a dark smile. He too finds himself having no problem with reading. Especially, since it means gaining valuable information he can use to advantage going forward when enacts his plan to take over.

"Isn't it ironic coming from a pony who dismissed reading as just for eggheads, Rainbow Dash." Scar commented to himself as he pulled an image of Rainbow currently reading along with a past memory of her calling Twilight and Ono eggheads before eyeing a specific page that caught his attention to which he locked eyes on the words of said page. "And thank you for leading me to this very valuable information. I owe you big time for this, Egghead."

Author's Note

In this episode, Rainbow Dash winds up in the hospital with a sprained wing after a daredevil stunt gone wrong while collecting Kyoga with her by accident who ended up suffering a back injury from the crash.

Initially Rainbow wasn't into reading but she eventually developed an interest as the episode progresses to the point she didn't want to admit it until being caught red-hoofed in an attempt to steal it from the hospital.

Kyoga herself even though she doesn't like having sit around against her will was much more patient with her recovery that Rainbow Dash as a sign of her Character Development compared to how she fared in the past. Along with that accepting Rainbow's apology along with taking jabs at her for her reading in a friendly manner to show their friendship has improves since day one.

During the scene Rainbow Dash caused, our feline Big Bad is up to more research as he obtains vital information from a book that Kyoga was reading during her visit in the hospital. Something that will come in handy for him going forward.

Next up is "Hearth's and Hooves Day." where the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the young Lion Guard fans get together to try to bring some holiday spirit to Cheerlie and Big Macintosh.

Episode 26: Hearts and Hooves Day

Episode 26

Hearts and Hooves Day

It Hearts and Hooves Day here in Ponyville, a day where ponies all over Ponyville get to spend time with the ponies they care about.

For stallions and mares it means a nice romantic day with each other. For fillies and young children of Equestria and the Pride Lands it means a showing their teachers of how much they value the time and effort they put in ensuring they get a proper education. And that’s what the young ones are doing right now.

The young Lion Guard fans have gotten together some of the special fruit that Rafiki usually likes for his bakora staff while the girls are making a valentine for Miss Cheerilee. They now have got their gifts ready to go as they as head on over to the Cutie Mark Crusaders tree-house so they can head on to school together.

They arrived just in time to see the three fillies put the finishing touches on their gift to Cheerilee.

“Hmm... I just don't feel like it's quite finished.” Apple Bloom voiced as she forward some glue.

“I know what you mean. If it's for Miss Cheerilee, it needs to be perfect.” Sweetie Belle agreed. “Hearts and Hooves Day only comes once a year, after all.”

“I say we add a little more ribbon!” Scootaloo proposed before setting off to do so.

“Mm-hmm, yeah, yeah. And just a tiny bit more lace.” Sweetie Belle added.

“A few more hoof-prints.” Apple Bloom placed purple paint on her hooves as she made her mark on the valentine.

“Glitter! It could definitely use just a little more glitter!” Scootaloo voiced another proposal as she held up the bucket of said glitter.

“Now that'll show Miss Cheerilee how much we care about her.” Apple Bloom voiced as they looked on at their massive success literally. Because the heart is so big it covered most of the floor of the clubhouse. “Just have to get it to the Hearts and Hooves party at school.”

“I think we're gonna need a bigger envelope.” Scootaloo said as she placed a hoof on the back of her neck seeing how big they valentine is.

“I think you girls need a lot of help.” Mtoto spoke up to them as the three turned to see their friends at the doorway waiting for them while giggling at the sight.

“Oh, hello.” Apple Bloom greeted rather surprised by their appearance. “How along have you all been standing there?”

“Long enough to see that you all made an amazing gift for your teacher.” Kwato answered.

“It’s really lovely.” Kambuni admired. “Cheerlie will definitely love this.”

“At least it’ll show that you three have a big heart.” Gumba made a pun which was met with chuckles and giggles as the Pride Landers walk over to each and every corner of the valentine. “Anyways…let’s us help out there.” He then offered.

“That would be great, thanks!” Scootaloo thanked as they all proceeded to walk to school together while carefully carrying the fillies gift on over to the school.

At the schoolhouse, everyone is in the spirit including the classroom with decorations all over the room and every student has their valentines to give to their teachers just as they started off with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the honorary Lion Guard fan since they were the last to arrive in class.

“It's lovely. And so... big!”

“Thank you so much! It’s just what I needed.”

The two teachers thanked their students.

“We just wanted to let you know that we think you're the best teacher in the whole wide world!” Apple Bloom expressed as she and the girls struggled to keep their big heart up to which their friends were quick to help support it. “And we think you're super! And that we love you so so much! And we want you to have the best Hearts and Hooves Day–“

“Ever!” The girls all finished together.

“Thank you so much, girls. I love it. I really do.” Cheerlie repeated.

“I'm sure it's nothing compared to the gifts you've gotten from your... very special somepony.” Sweetie Belle suggestively said to her to which struck a personal chord with her.

“Oh, I don't have a very special somepony at the moment.” She replied while still smiling as the girls all sported sudden looks of shock hearing that.

“Really?“ Apple Bloom asked.

“How could somepony as amazing as you not have a very special somepony on Hearts and Hooves Day?” Sweetie Belle also inputted as Cheerlie looked uncomfortable when they tried to press the subject with her back turned.

“Now, now, little ones…” Rafiki urged them that’s enough. “…some questions are better left unanswered.”

“Rafiki please…” Cheerilee gently insisted it’s okay as she turned to face the girls. “It's alright, Sweetie Belle.” She assured. I have lots of good friends and wonderful students who care about me very much. I'm gonna have an absolutely terrific Hearts and Hooves Day.” She told them as she called out to the rest of her students. “Alright, everypony, who's ready to play "Pin the Heart on the Pony"?”

Everyone all expressed volunteered interest as Cheerlie turns to the eager children leaving the girls still feeling she deserves better than what she currently has.

“If anypony deserves a very special somepony, it's her.” Apple Bloom voiced to the others when Sweetie Belle sports an eager grin at her direction to which slightly creeped her out. “Uh, you all right?”

“I'm more than all right. I've just come up with the best idea ever.” Sweetie Belle excitedly answered. “We're gonna find Miss Cheerilee a very special somepony.”

“That is the best idea ever.” Apple Bloom agreed.

“Tooold yooou!” Sweetie returned in a sing-song tone.

“So what are we waiting for? Hearts and Hooves Day is almost over! Let's get out there and find somepony special for Cheerilee already.” Apple Bloom urged the other Crusaders as they shared a high-five together.

“Yeah!”

“Let's do it!”

As the girls head out to do so when school ends, their friends had nothing to say because they aren’t sure if this is something worth their time but none of the less follow after them.

“Now it can't be just anypony. Miss Cheerilee is one of the best mares in Ponyville. She deserves to have one of the best stallions as her very special somepony.” Sweetie again voiced as she began singing.

“Cheerilee is sweet and kind,

She's the best teacher we could hope for.

The perfect stallion you and I must find

One to really make her heart so-o-oar.”

She sang as she trotted with the others split up and search for the special somepony while turning to a few ponies herself such as a filly playing an arcade game, an elderly pony walking with a hand cart, and a ill pony.

“But...

This one's too young,

This one's too old.

He clearly has a terrible cold.”

“This guy's too silly.

He's way too uptight.”

She sang as she walked by a clown and an upper class pony.

“I say!” The latter voiced slight offended.

“Well nothing's wrong with this one,

He seems alright...”

Sweetie Belle sang as she comes across a potential match.

“His girlfriend sure thinks so.” Scootaloo quickly shot it down as they both see his special somepony nuzzling nose to nose.

“How 'bout this one?”

Sweetie proposed one with a mustache, sunglasses, wearing a green disco jacket with a very fitting cutie mark to match.

“He's much too flashy.”

Apple Bloom shot it down immediately before coming across a pony running by while accidentally splashing mud on the other two Crusaders before resuming their search.

“He might do!”

“If he weren't so splashy!”

“Too short.”

“Too tall.”

“Too clean.”

“Too smelly.”

“Too strangely obsessed with tubs of jelly.”

The girls sang as their search was running thin at this point as they all regrouped.

“I don't think that we're mistaken,

It seems all the good ones are taken.”

Apple Bloom sang as she lamented.

“I really feel that at this rate,

We'll never find the perfect date.”

Sweetie Belle sang hopefully as they leaped up the nearby haystack courtesy of Apple Bloom’s big brother, Big Macintosh.

“Don't wanna quit and give up hope!”

“Doing anything special for Hearts and Hooves Day?” Scootaloo asked him when they spotted him.

“Oh please, oh please oh please say—“

Sweetie pleaded as he said…

“Nope.”

Seeing this gave the girls the idea and the pony they have been looking for.

“We did it girls,

We've found the one!

Who will send our teacher's heart aflutter!”

Sweetie Belle sang in a celebratory manner with the other girls hopping and skipping on their tippy toes to which Apple Bloom questioned when she realizes what she is suggesting.

“Wait a minute. Lemme get this straight. Are you talkin' 'bout my brother?”

“Sweetie Belle is right.” Scootaloo confirmed while making their way back to Sweet Apple Acres where they watch him perform his chores unnoticed by the large stallion. “Big McIntosh is the perfect match for Miss Cheerilee. He's really nice, super hard-working.”

“Hmm...” Apple Bloom understood why but still isn’t sure about the idea. “But he's also pretty shy. He's never gonna ask Miss Cheerilee to be his very special somepony.”

“Maybe he doesn't have to.” Sweetie Belle then thought of an idea.

“Huh?”

“If we can get Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee in a really romantic setting, I bet she'll ask him.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Scootaloo liked the idea as she turned to their friends. “Don’t you agree?”

“I don’t know…” Mtoto voiced otherwise as the girls returned rather shocked looks. “Maybe we shouldn’t.”

“What do you mean?” Scootaloo asked.

“What if they don’t want us meddling with their personal life?” Mtoto explained. “What if what their special some ponies are someone they’d rather met on their own?”

“Aw, come on now, of course it’ll work.” Scootaloo shrugged off their worries. “How could it not?”

“I think what Mtoto is trying to say is that maybe we are better off not getting involved in this.” Kambuni spoke up. “Cheerlie said herself that she is happy with what she has right now.”

“She was just saying that to put a smile for us.” Sweetie Belle replied. “Because she’s really hiding with how dissatisfied she is with her current life.”

“But girls…” Kwato disagreed. “…even though we may not know love full well, I’m sure we are better off not doing it. I mean like Rafiki said it’s like forcing two positive ends of a battery to attach to each other.”

“But like Cheerlie said two positives do still make a right.” Scootaloo interjected.

“Isn’t that really two wrongs don’t make a right?” Gumba questioned.

“Whatever, because point being is we know this is going to work.” Scootaloo shrugged it off while ready to move their shipper plan forward.

“So? What are we waitin' for? Let's get out there and create the perfect date!” Apple Bloom voiced to the other girls while sharing a high five together.

“Yay!”

“Count us in.” Gumba voiced his and Shakku’s support.

“We’re right behind you.” Shakku supported as their wiser friends could only sigh seeing they are getting themselves into a potential mess of trouble that only the Lion and Pony Guard would fix if word got out.

So the kids set up a simple romantic picnic in the park with apple treats, special Hearts and Hooves treats, nice soothing music from a record player.

“Flowers. Don't forget the flowers.” Sweetie Belle reminded her friends.

“Oops. I'm on it!” Apple Bloom quickly rushed over to get them while their friends are on the lookout for the two ponies they have requested to the park little to their knowledge of the attempted setup.

“They’re coming.” Shakku alerted everyone.

“This is gonna be perfect.” Scootaloo gleefully said as she briefly flapped her little wings into the air. “Miss Cheerilee is gonna have the best Hearts and Hooves Day ever.”

“With her new very special somepony.” Sweetie added as she and the other girls giggle before greeting their teacher while the others just rolled along with it because they made it perfectly clear they don’t agree with the approach.

“Hi, girls.”

“Hi, Miss Cheerilee.”

“So you three said you needed help identifying a tree you found here near the gazebo?” Cheerlie asked them with the three fillies directing their attention to said tree on the horizon “...That's an apple tree.” She responded rather dully.

“Is it?” Apple Bloom asked with faux surprise before giggling just as her big brother arrives ready to get to work only to find that the job is already finished.

“Oh, sorry, big brother.” She apologized. “We went and fixed up the gazebo all on our own. See?” She showed him while nudging him closer to their teacher with Scootaloo nudging Cheerlie closer to Apple Bloom’s brother.

“As long as you're here, why not have a bite to eat from this romantic-looking picnic?” Scootaloo gestured them to the spread in front of them. “Oh gosh, seems like there's only room for two.” She pretended to realize.

“I guess we'll just be goin' then.” Apple Bloom added just as surprised before quickly dashing away from the scene and to the nearby bushes but not before turning on the music to leave the two confused ponies be while wondering what that was all about.

“You really think this'll work?” Mtoto questioned the girls.

“Of course it will work. They're perfect for each other.” Sweetie Belle replied very certain it will.

“Okay.” Kwato accepted.

“If you say so.” Kambuni added in the same tone as they watch the two converse.

“Beautiful day we're having.” Cheerlie awkwardly began.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac stoically replied.

“Any big plans for tonight?”

“Nnnope.”

“Oh, come on, Miss Cheerilee, ask him to be your very special somepony.” Apple Bloom pleaded with her to take the bait right in front of her.

“Ohmigosh, look.” Sweetie voiced seeing the two getting a little close to each other.

“Big Mac...”

“Eeyup?“

The girls widen their smiles as the other watch on thinking their plan is actually going to work when Cheerlie then speaks…

“You have something stuck in your teeth.” She pointing to said piece of food stuck to which Big Mac quickly pulls a toothpick to dig it out while the music abruptly stops.

“Aw, come on!”

“Really?!”

Sweetie Belle and Gumba exclaimed loudly before being quickly pushed down before Cheerlie could spot them.

“Well this has been... strange.”

“Eeyup.”

The two expressed with how awkward this whole meeting is.

“I need to get going, but it's always great running into a good friend.”

“Yup.”

They politely went their separate ways with friendly smiles in opposite directions which left the previously hopeful kids in deep disappointment.

“Well, no use letting all of this go to waste.” Shakku commented before he and Guma ran off to the display of treats and ate them up along with Mtoto albeit reluctantly helping himself to a few treats for the sake of not wasting a good spread.

Shortly after cleaning up the setup, the girls trotted off ahead back into town with their friends following after them.

“Do you think it just wasn't romantic enough?” Apple Bloom asked the others with a sigh.

“Maybe it was too romantic.” Scootaloo responded.

“Or maybe it just wasn’t meant to be.” Kwato suggested otherwise.

“Either way, we failed.” Sweetie Belle voiced it didn’t matter in defeat.

“It least it was worth a try.” Kambuni tried to make them feel better to little success.

“There's gotta be somethin' else we could…” Apple Bloom wished before bumping into Twilight and Kion who were both so deeply focused on the book the former was showing the latter.

“Oh my goodness, we didn't even see you there.”

“We’re so sorry.”

The two apologized.

“Aw, it's okay, Twilight, Kion. It was an accident.” Apple Bloom immediately forgave them.

“Kion! Twilight!” The Pride Lander friends greeted them.

“Hey!” Kion returned. “Did you all have fun at school today?”

“Sure did!” Mtoto answered.

“We played pin the tail on the pony, had snacks, and gave our teachers thoughtful gifts. It was so fun!” Kambuni added rather gleefully.

“Glad to hear.” Twilight said to them. “I've just been reading the most fascinating book about Hearts and Hooves Day and I was just showing Kion about it.” Twilight explained as she picked up the book she was reading with her magic while Kion helped the girls to their hooves. “Did you know that this holiday got its start because of a love potion?”

Suddenly, the girls quickly rushed over to Twilight seeing this as another opportunity to try to play matchmaker with the potential information on the book she has in her possession.

“Did you say... a love potion?” Sweetie eagerly asked.

“Huh?” The Lion Guard fans quizzically questioned.

“That's right.” Twilight confirmed while flipping the book to said page. “It even has the recipe.”

“I... don't suppose we could borrow that book for a little while, do ya?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Before Twilight could answer, Kion quickly spoke up wondering why.

“Girls…” He suspiciously asked them. “…what are you three up to?”

“Nothing.” Apple Bloom quickly denied leaving the lion prince unconvinced.

“Oh my goodness…” Scootaloo suddenly gasped “…is that a pony stuck in a well again.”

“What?!” Kion questioned as he and Twilight quickly turned in that direction and saw no one is stuck inside the well but right when they turned their backs to tell them there was nobody stuck the girls were already gone with the book in tow.

“What in the Pride Lands just happened?” Kion asked rather baffled while the young ones were left knowing with what bad things are in store for Big Macintosh and Cheerlie.

“Kids.” Twilight turned to the kids that didn't run away along with Kion. “Would you kindly tell us what’s going on?”

“Well…” Mtoto hesitated before confessing. “…the girls heard about Cheerlie’s single life and that she doesn’t have a special somepony in class the other day…”

“…so they came across Big Macintosh as the only pony who also didn’t have a special somepony…” Kambuni added albeit reluctantly.

“…before deciding to pair them up feeling they’d be a perfect match for each other…” Kwato took a turn in explaining honestly.

“…so they tried to set up a romantic picnic in the park but it didn’t work out…” Gumba further confessed.

“…so now after coming across you two and that book they are now getting the idea to put together a love potion to push them more together.” Shakku finished.

“It’s not like they are trying to force it upon them.” Mtoto quickly defended to assert that they had good intentions for doing so.

“Yeah I mean their hearts are in the right place.” Kambuni added. “But it seems they have the wrong idea of playing match maker.”

“Very wrong.” Kwato emphasized as the two leaders of the Guard shared a knowing look.

“I understand.” Twilight gently responded as she leaned down to their eye level to let them know that everything's all good since they were clearly weren't very comfortable with having to fess up their friends shenanigans even when it was the right thing to do. “It’s okay. You all did nothing wrong and we greatly appreciate you all brought this to our attention.”

“Really?” Kwato said in relief.

“Of course.” Kion replied. “And you all did what you could while trying to be good friends to them.”

“But what about the Cutie Mark Crusaders?” Shakku questioned.

“We’ll deal with them when things get out of hoof.” Twilight assured him. “But in the meantime you can help us out by keeping an eye on them. Tell us immediately if something comes up.”

“You heard that?” Kion asked them to make sure they understand that’s an order.

“Yes, sir.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Both Shakku and Gumba saluted to them.

“Come on, everyone…” Mtoto quickly led the way. “…to the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!” The other’s finished together to which the two were left chuckling in amusement of their adorable antics bright down to sharing their battle cry together.

Meanwhile the Cutie Mark Crusaders are currently making their love potion by following the instructions from the book they snagged.

“Take a tuft of cloud.” Sweetie Belle read the next instruction from the book to which the girls managed to fetch said item from the closet cloud from the highest cliff in Ponyville.

“A bright rainbow's glow…”

They managed to fetch it from a nearby rainbow while literally sucking out all of the color from it.

“Stir with a Pegasus feather–“

Easy to obtain with Scootaloo’s back.

“Hey!”

“Fast, not slow.”

“Serve to two ponies who aren't in the know.” Apple Bloom finished seeing their purple colored brew is now finished with two cups ready for two ponies for another attempted gathering at the gazebo with their friends secretly following them.

“I feel kind of bad trickin' my brother and Miss Cheerilee this way.” Apple Bloom expressed having second thoughts.

“What's the problem? We all agreed these two are perfect for one another.” Sweetie Belle questioned and pointed out while adjusting the flowers.

“Yeah, they just need a little nudge.” Scootaloo added.

“And what could make them happier than being together, right?” Sweetie Belle reminded.

“Right!” Apple Bloom smiled as she remembered why they are doing this before noticing something. “Huh? Has any pony seen the other kids?”

Before any of them could figure that out and answer Scootaloo spotted the two arriving at the gazebo.

“Oh, oh, here they come.“

“Hiya, Miss Cheerilee.” Apple Bloom greeted.

“Hello again, girls. Hello, Big Mac.” Cheerlie returned with a smile. “Would you three like to tell us why it was so very important that we meet you here–“

“Punch!” Sweetie Belle interrupted.

“Excuse me?”

“Punch! We made punch. We were gonna set up a stand and try to sell it but, heh, we needed somepony to taste-test it first.” Sweetie Belle explained.

“Yup.” Apple Bloom nodded.

“We thought you two would be perfect together.” Sweetie Belle added then corrected herself. “To test it. Together. So, uh, we'll just leave you two alone. Together, to test it.”

The girls then quickly ran off together leaving the perplexed ponies alone with the cups of potion.

“I'm very sorry about this.” Cheerlie apologized. “I mentioned to the girls that I don't have a very special somepony, and I believe they're putting us in these awkward situations because they've decided it should be you.”

Both adults shared a laugh over it before deciding to drink the punch.

“I suppose we should just humor them for a moment. This punch does look delicious.”

“Eeyup.”

“I think they're gonna drink it.” Sweetie eagerly anticipated.

“To good friends!” Cheerlie said cheers while sharing a toast with Big Macintosh.

“They're drinking it. They're drinking it!” Scootaloo exclaimed seeing they’re buying it. After a hiccup, the two then gazed into each other’s eyes with purple swirls in them. “They're looking into each other's eyes.”

“They're about to be in for a big surprise!” The three said in unison seeing their plan is working.

“Big Mac?”

“Yup?”

The girls again buttoned up their eager eyes and smiles when she then popped the question.

“Will you be my very special somepony?”

“Eeyup.”

“YES!” Sweetie exclaimed again before being quickly pushed down by Scootaloo.

“He's her special somepony! She's his special somepony!” The girls celebrated in a sing-song tone while prancing around the love-gazed ponies.

“He's my special somepony.”

“Eeeeeyup.”

“Aww!”

The others hiding in the bushes could not believe what had just happened. The girls plan worked even if it resorted to dubious means to force the bond together.

“He's my shmoopy-doopy sweetie-weetie pony pie.”

“You're my shmoopy-doopy sweetie-weetie pony pie.”

The two traded to which immediately raised red flags in the girls minds from the overly-affectionate gestures.

“Did he just say–“ Apple Bloom asked.

“You're my cutie-patootie lovie-dovie honey-bunny.

“You're my heartie-smartie smoochie-woochie baby-waby.”

They traded again as their eyes glowed the purple swirl again.

“Big Mac! Hey! Hello! What's going on?”

“Miss Cheerilee, are you alright?”

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle checked up on them.

“I have a special somepony.” Cheerlie answered not even paying attention to the girls or even the Lion Guard fans approaching them. “A kissy-wissy snuggy-wuggy sugar bear.”

“Girls, what did you all just do?” Mtoto asked them very worried with what they had just did seeing the two share a nose kiss with each other.

“I think we may have given them too big of a nudge.” Sweetie admitted.

“You're my cuddly-wuddly boopsie-woopsie pumpkin pie.” Big Macintosh shared with Cheerlie to which the kids cringed seeing another overly-affectionate gesture

“Oh you think.” Gumba remarked while resisting the urge to throw up.

“Care to explain what kind of potion you girls gave them?” Shakku questioned to which the girls immediately retreated to their clubhouse to find that out.

“As soon as we find out we’ll let you know.” Apple Bloom answered before pulling out the book they used once they all managed to make it back to the clubhouse.

“What have we done?!” Apple Bloom expressed as she paced around while the other Crusaders looked at the recipe they used. “My brother's actin' like a grade-A goofball!”

“Maybe we added too much rainbow.”

“Or maybe not enough cloud.”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo suggested before Sweetie Belle realized something.

“Or maybe... uh-oh.”

“Whaddaya mean, "uh-oh?!"” Apple Bloom inquired.

“We might not have given Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee a love potion. We may have given them a love poison.” Sweetie Belle explained.

“What?!” Everyone exclaimed as Sweetie Belle continued.

“Apparently, some prince a long time ago whipped up this recipe and gave it to this princess he liked. He meant it to be a love potion, but things didn't turn out so well.”

“How "not so well" did things turn out?“ Kwato asked.

“Well, there's something here about a dragon, the kingdom falling, chaos reigning...” She read from the book word for word while the others clench their teeth while cringing at the implications. “Okay, apparently it was all because the prince and princess were so lost in each other's eyes that they couldn't perform their royal duties.”

“Oh sweet Simba.” Kambuni said in horror. “You girls are so dead.”

“Great! We've not only turned Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee into a couple of nonsense-spoutin' nincompoops, we may have put all of Ponyville in jeopardy!” Apple Bloom lamented as she smacked her face into the nearby table.

“Come on, Apple Bloom. Miss Cheerilee and Big Mac don't have any royal duties.” Scootaloo tried to assure.

“But they still got responsibilities. If we don't fix this...” Apple Bloom greatly feared the worst while wildly swinging her arms around. “Oh no, Miss Cheerilee won't be able to teach. Big Mac won't be able to harvest any apples, and before you know it... Ponyville will be overrun with uneducated little ponies starvin' for apples. Oh, it'll be chaos! It'll be chaos!”

“There's an antidote!” Sweetie Belle immediately pointed out.

“Well, why didn't you say so?” Apple Bloom immediately berated. “Didn't you see me gettin' all panicked back there?”

“Apple Bloom…” Mtoto urged her to calm down. “…please. She just found it out. Please don’t give her a hard time over this.”

“I’m sorry, Mtoto.” Apple Bloom apologized after calming down a little. “I just really don’t want my big brother’s to be ruined because of me.”

“We’ll fix this no problem.” Kambuni gently said before turning to Sweetie Belle. “What’s the antidote.”

“If we can keep Miss Cheerilee and Big Mac from looking into each other's eyes for one full hour, the love curse will be broken.” She explained while showing them the highlighted page.

“Only an hour?” Scootaloo thinks this shouldn’t be a problem. “We can pull that off in a second.”

“You sure about that?” Mtoto questioned not so sure it’ll be easy. “Your brother is very strong.”

“Of course.” Apple Bloom replied.

“Even when he is capable of carrying three tree loads of apples.” Gumba added to agree with Mtoto. “Doesn’t sound like a pony to be underestimated.”

“Absolutely!” Scootaloo again scoffed. “I mean how hard can it be to keep them separated?”

“So true.” Sweetie agreed without second thought before leading the other girls out to do so. “Let’s go!”

“We’re telling Twilight and Kion about this right?” Kwato asked the others.

“Eeyup!” They all said in unison before they set out to do so because even at a young age they are smart enough to know when to ask for help.

Meanwhile the two ponies under the effects of the love poison have retreated to Sugarcube Corner still gushing over each other with a milkshake while Mrs. Cake is clearly disturbed by their interactions.

“You take the first sip, snuggle-wuggles.”

“No, you take it, schnoodle-dumplin'.”

“No, you, shnooky-lumps.”

“No, you, pookie-pie.”

They traded with each other while pushing the float towards each other insisting they take a sip from it just as the Cutie Mark Crusaders arrive.

“I'm all for romance, but this has been going on for hours.” Mrs. Cake voiced her subtle disgust at the two biting onto the same cherry. “What's happened to these two?”

“Who knows?” Sweetie responded with a nervous chuckle.

“Well, these lovebirds will probably be planning a wedding soon.” Mrs. Cake then thought nothing of it as she walked away. “I can always use the catering business.”

“A wedding! That's it!” Sweetie spoke up of another idea. “Miss Cheerilee and Big Mac should get married!”

“How is gettin' hitched gonna keep them apart?” Apple Bloom questioned.

“They aren't really gonna get married.” Sweetie clarified. “They're just gonna get ready to get married.”

“No, you, biscuit-wiscuit bear!”

“Nope, you, huggy-wuggy snuggy bunny!”

The two traded as Sweetie Belle approaches them.

“Hi, Miss Cheerilee, how are you?” She asked her teacher.

“I have a very special somepony.” Cheerlie answered still not taking their eyes off of Big Mac while holding up a portrait of her stallion.

“I have a very special somepony.” Big Macintosh expressed while holding up a portrait of Cheerlie.

“Yeah, we noticed.” Apple Bloom noted in a flat tone when they share another nose kiss before Sweetie got in between them to which the two ponies struggled from the brief moment of separation.

“Gosh, you two are so in love, the next thing you know, you'll be getting married.”

“Married?!” They expressed with stunned surprise.

“That's right. Maaarriiied.” Sweetie emphasized as she repeated.

“Married...” They found the idea intriguing to which Apple Bloom resisted the urge to throw up before pushing her brother out the door.

“'Course, if you're gonna get married, you wanna pick out a really nice diamond for your” Apple Bloom nearly threw up again. “shmoopy-doopy, uh, pookie-pie.”

“Diamond!”

“Shmoopy!”

The two expressed sudden shock and desperation of being forcibly separated while futilely trying to reach out to each other.

”Don't you think you should start looking for your wedding dress?” Scootaloo playing along with Sweetie’s plan. “You'll wanna look your best for your...honey-bunny snuggle-baby.” She added the last part rather reluctantly.

“Oh! Dress!” Cheerlie immediately went off to do so while busting a hole in the wall when she makes her leave.

“Now we just need to keep them apart.” Sweetie Belle voiced of what must be done. “I'll keep Miss Cheerilee occupied. You two do the same with Big Mac.”

“No problem.” Apple Bloom agreed.

“And you two have extra help…” They heard a voice just in front of them from Twilight accompanied by Kion along with the Lion Guard fans. “…Because we’re going to help to make sure of that.”

“Twilight! Kion!” The girls exclaimed in shock upon seeing them and they know about all of this. “What are you both doing here?”

“Helping fix the mess you three made.” Kion answered with the girls expressing surprise directed at their friends for telling them about this.

“You told them?” Apple Bloom questioned them feeling slightly betrayed.

“Sorry girls…” Mtoto apologized on behalf of the team. “…but with what we need to pull this off, we needed some help here.”

The girls still couldn’t believe it but didn’t have time to say a word about it.

“We’ll worry about all of this later.” Kion quickly spoke while turning to the others. “For now let’s just focus on keeping them separate for the next hour. Girls you’re with Twilight and Cheerlie and you guys are with me. Got it?”

“Right!” Everyone all stated.

“We’ll meet you back at the clubhouse in an hour when this whole mess is over.” Sweetie Belle called out to the other girls while she and Twilight lead the way in Cheerlie’s direction with Kion leading the guy’s in Big Mac’s direction.

The girls caught up to Cheerlie currently going through wedding dresses at Rarity’s shop with the fashionista and is frantically rushing through the process by just pushing aside every dress given to her.

“Easy Cheerlie…” Twilight placed a stopping hoof on her shoulder. “Take a deep breath…” Cheerlie did so… “…and let it out slowly…” Cheerlie again did as she was told to which Sweetie Belle hands her one dress before forcing her into the fitting room.

“This one looks nice. Better try it on though.” Sweetie Belle suggested while handing her the rack of dresses to try on along with barricading the door to keep her locked inside for the rest of the hour.

“Ten minutes down, fifty minutes to go.” Kambuni reported to the other girls while looking at the clock tower from outside.

“Okay, good.” Twilight felt pleased to see and hear that.

“Although I would have greatly appreciated it if you hadn’t me bring out my finest wedding veils and dresses to serve just as a distraction to fix another one of your silly mistakes, Sweetie Belle.” Rarity chided her little sister.

“Sorry sis. But how else we’re we supposed to get them apart for one whole hour?” The little unicorn apologized.

“It’ll be okay Rarity.” Twilight reassured her friend. “We just need to keep her until the love poison wears off.”

“Hopefully, the guys aren’t having too much trouble with Big Mac.” Kambuni hopefully added.

“Some things easier said than done.” Rarity grumbled accepting the decision but not liking it.

Meanwhile, the guys along with the other Crusaders are helping the stallion look at wedding rings. Of course, the large stallion really wants to make this quick so he can reunite with Cheerlie. So he tries to agree to accept the first diamond he sees leading to the others to make the decisions for him to stall him.

“No.”

“Not that one either.”

Kion, Gumba, and Apple Bloom all immediately waved off much to both the vendor and the buyer’s disappointment while the former presents a diamond-encrusted gem to the red-coated and muscular pony.

“No.” Shauku quickly rejected. “Too shiny.”

“Yeah…” Apple Bloom quickly agreed. “…He’s need something a little…You know, somethin' less... shiny. Miss Cheerilee deserves the best.”

The shopper obliged without question to which she turned Scootaloo eyeing the clock tower from the window. “How much time is left? I'm runnin' out of ways to make diamonds sound bad.”

“We still have twenty five minutes.” She reported before seeing Big Mac and Kion have both left the building. “What happened and where's my brother?”

“He quickly made his purchase and departed out the back. Said something about needing to see his... shmoopy-shmoo.” The vendor answered to which the kids all groaned in disgust hearing the sickening nickname display.

With fifteen minutes left on the clock the kids all followed after Big Macintosh who is currently hopping on over to find Cheerlie with Kion quickly following after him.

“Okay, Kion and I will see what we can do to slow him down. You all go on to Carousel Boutique and warn Twilight and the girls.” Apple Bloom told the others to which they quickly did so before focusing on the lion cub trying to tackle and stop the stallion in his tracks.

Even though he was able to tackle and force him to the ground, Big Macintosh was just too strong to stop him in his tracks

Apple Bloom then tried to drag him by both his back then his front heels to stop him but it was no use. The adrenaline in his blood was too much for him to be stopped so easily.

Until she came across another idea when it came walking by…spotting a nearby couple of bulls struggling to carry anvils on their cart she quickly placed a rope around her big brother’s saddle with hopes it would be enough to stop him. But even that was not enough to even remotely slow him down because the bulls were dragged by their hooves.

Apple Bloom could only watch in dismay seeing the big half of the problem is starting to come too close to the smaller half with only five minutes to go.

“Don’t worry, Apple Bloom. We’re way ahead of you.” Kion told the filly while quickly making their way the shop where the other members of the Guard have a trap set out for the overly strong pony.

At the same time, Scootaloo along with the other kids have arrived while catching their breath to which the other girls took notice of.

“What's wrong?”

“Where's Apple Bloom?”

“Where's Big Mac?”

Twilight, Kambuni, and Kwato all asked.

“On…his…way.”

“Gotta…keep him…out of boutique.” Scootaloo and Gumba explained in between breaths.

“Not a problem.” Twilight spoke up to them while pointing her hoof straight ahead. “We’ve already got it covered.”

“Huh?” The kids questioned until they saw the big hole in the middle of the pathway dug up by her big sister Applejack along with Rainbow Dash, Pinkie, Beshte, and Bunga. “Oh!”

“I get it!” Scootaloo understood their angle when they see Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh heading their way. “Move away!” She called out to the filly who has resorted to hooking a house along with herself to her brother which did little to slow him down.

“He'll get to her! He's too strong!” Apple Bloom called back.

“Let him go!” Sweetie urged her to which she does without a choice in that regard.

Thankfully, the large red stallion wasn’t watching where he was going and ended up dropping right into the Guard’s trap.

“Shmoopy-doo– Whoa!” Big Macintosh shouted.

“I sure am glad you found those shovels.” Scootaloo expressed as they see the stallion buried deep in the hole unable to climb out in time especially with the strongest members of the Guard tackling the scrambling pony down.

“And I’m sure am glad you found the Guard to help us out.” Sweetie Belle gratefully added to their Pride Lander friends. “We would have had barely managed had it been just us handling this.”

“One more minute and the spell will be broken!” Apple Bloom excitedly announced when they turned to the clock’s attention.

“Shmoopy-doo!” Big Macintosh cried out to which caught the attention of the kid’s teacher who started bursting out of the dressing room and out of the building.

“Sweetums?!” She cried out while wearing a wedding veil on her head looking around for her special somepony.

“Shmoopy-doo!” Big Mac cried out while forced down back into the hole.

“Oh no you don’t.” Kyoga declared while working her magic from her paws to freeze the charging pony in place along with Twilight to keep her from advancing on Big Mac while the others block off the trapped pony’s view with the remaining seconds of the hour ticking away.

Finally, the clock chimed six o’clock meaning the effects of the love potion have worn off allowing the two to drop their magical grip on Cheerlie who then instantly dived into the pit and crashed into everyone inside the hole.

“Oh, please be normal, please be normal.” Apple Bloom hoped when she and the girls reach the edge of the pit to find the two looking up wondering what had just happened.

“Am I wearing a wedding veil?” Cheerlie asked while looking around to their surroundings.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac stoically answered.

“Are you sitting on a feather bed in a hole in the ground?”

“Eeyup.”

“And you guys and girls are in here too?” She asked the strongest members of the Guard.

“Eeyup.” Applejack stoically answered too.

“Girls! Can you explain why I look like I'm getting married at the bottom of a pit with the strongest members of the Guard presiding over it?” Cheerlie asked the Crusaders to which the three of them all did so upon being glared at by everyone from the Guard to do so with nervous grins.

“We may have given you the teeny-tiniest bit of love potion... that may have turned out to actually be a love poison, and you may have gone just a teeny-tiniest bit nutty.” Sweetie confessed.

“But we only did it because we thought you and Big Mac would be really happy if you could be each others very special someponies on Hearts and Hooves Day.” Apple Bloom added.

“Our hearts and hooves were in the right place.” Scootaloo also added.

“We appreciate that you care about us and want us to be happy but–“ Cheerlie began to respond but the girls weren’t finished yet.

“But no matter how good our intentions might have been, we shoulda never meddled in your relationship.” Apple Bloom continued.

“Nopony can force two ponies to be together.” Scootaloo added.

“It's up to everypony to choose that very special somepony for themselves.” Sweetie Belle finished before she and the others say in unison.

“We're sorry.”

“And you can think about how sorry you are while you're doing all of Big Mac's chores at Sweet Apple Acres.” Cheerlie responded in a tone that makes it clear they are stay getting a heck of a punishment for their actions before turning to Apple Bloom’s siblings. “Does that seem like a fair punishment to you?”

“Eeyup.”

“Sounds fair to me.”

Both Big Mac and Applejack nodded.

“Along with helping me repair the damage to my shop.” Rarity added pointing to the damage doors in her fitting room along with the entrance.

“Okay…” The girls accepted with closed eyes not even denying that they all had this coming.

After filling up the hole, the girls got to work at Sweet Apple Acres to start their punishment by filling apples into the large crate to which the girls found as hard work.

And it is made perfectly clear whether they did so or not will not go unnoticed by the Guard since they are supervising their punishment themselves. Thankfully, the Lion Guard fan group were kind enough to help them out. Especially, since they also have to tend to the repairs at Rarity’s shop.

Just as the kids sighed from the sweat accumulated on their faces both Big Macintosh and Cheerlie have approached the kids.

“Hey there, Miss Cheerilee! What are you doin' here?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Since you three are doing all of his chores, Big Mac and I thought we'd have a picnic at the gazebo.” Cheerlie answered while turning to Big Mac. “Ready, sugar bear?” She said in an overly affectionate manner.

“Eeyup, pumpkin pie.” Big Mac returned in a similar manner to which the kids gasped in shock realizing the plan to keep them away long enough failed.

Unbeknownst to them, the adults all shared giggles and knowing winks to each other since they know that they are actually trolling the kids before the two ponies set out towards the gazebo.

“NOOOOO!!!” The kids screamed together upon seeing the two walk off into the sunset together.

Author's Note

In another CMC and Lion Guard fan club episode, the kids find themselves or more specifically following the CMC playing match maker for Cheerlie and Big Macintosh which goes well as one would expect.

The only thing different in here is that the Lion Guard fan group came to the Guard about who were quick to come up with a solution to stall the two ponies under the effects of the potion which goes smoothly and efficiently.

The main reason, is because I feel the the fan club has some more common sense and know when to ask for help when something gets out of hoof along with having the urge not to pursue something that isn't their business. Because after all, even though they may enjoy playing Lion Guard with each other, they are smart enough to know better.

Next up is "A Friend in Deed." where Pinkie and Bunga try to make a cranky donkey happy to keep up having everyone in Ponyville being their friends.

Episode 27: A Friend in Deed

Episode 27:

A Friend in Deed

At Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie has turned on the music as she and her best friend Bunga put on their confident smiles while putting on exercising clothes.

“Ready?” Bunga asked the party pony ready to work out.

“Let's do this!” She declared before they set to do so while making various funny faces at the Cake twins.

“Happy! Sad. Happy! Sad. Happy! Sad.”

“Open, shut, open, shut, open, shut, open, shut.”

“Yep, yep-yep-yep-yep-yep-yep.”

“Nope, nope-nope-nope-nope-nope-nope.”

The two traded together while shaking the crib along with sweating their heads off in the process.

But even though they have accepted Pinkie as their closest caretaker, they still aren’t amused by the attempted comedic display they had just attempted with crossed arms…

At least until the two accidentally tripped and sat on jumping jacks right behind them to which they ended up yelping and leaping up to the ceiling fan before crashing into a pile of stuffed animals.

“Nailed it!” Pinkie cheered seeing they have succeeded in their workout.

“At least one thing that hasn’t changed since they were born.” Bunga felt relieved they were able to pull it off while pulling the stuck jumping jacks off of his butt to which he winced upon removing them. “Even if it is slightly painful.”

As long as a smile is brought to everyone’s faces, they are happy. Although they soon have a bigger challenge coming up on the horizon to which their skills will soon be put to the test with what’s coming their way.

With the early morning beginning with the sun rising and the roosters crowing, Pinkie and Bunga are greeted to a cow arriving at the bakery’s front doorstep.

“Morning, DaisyJo!”

“You here to pick up some cookies to go with your milk?”

Bungan and Pinkie greeted.

“Oh ya, Pinkie, Bunga, don'tcha know?” She happily answered while the two leaped onto her back and slide down and across before continuing their way.

“Well, Mrs. Cake just baked a fresh batch of your favorite oatmeal.” Pinkie told the friendly cow before she and Bunga walked off ahead to greet more of the Ponyville residents.

“Mooo, sounds delightful!” She returned delightfully in turn before walking inside.

“Oh, Rose, your Calla lilies look even better than last year!” Pinkie complimented on the owner of the nearby flower bush. “I bet you'll take first prize at the flower show again.”

“Are you kidding? Of course she will!” Bunga stated.

“Thanks, Pinkie! Bunga!” She thanked and then offered. “Would you two each like one?”

“Absolutely!” The two happily exclaimed upon receiving flowers in their mouths for them to munch on before continuing their very way.

“Looking fit as a fiddle, Mr. Waddle, and you're wearing my favorite tie!” Pinkie complimented a nearby blue coated elderly pony with black round glasses and a red and white polka-dot bowtie.

“Another day, another good looking presentation for Ponyville!” Bunga added.

“Aw, shucks, Miss Pinkie and Mr Bunga, you flatterers you.” He returned while blushing feeling very touched from that compliments.

“Well, happy birthday, Cheerilee.”

“Have a nice time, Cheerliee.”

Pinkie and Bunga said to the school teacher passing by.

“Thank you, Pinkie, Bunga.” She happily returned.

“Happy day-after-your-birthday, Zecora!”

“Here’s to another good year of good fortune!”

Pinkie and Bunga said to the friendly zebra passing by.

“What a lovely hi, Miss Pinkie Pie! Mr. Bunga!”

“And Miss Matilda, happy birthday to you...” Bunga then said to the nearby donkey who returned a confused expression.

“…in one hundred and thirty two days!” Pinkie added.

“Pinkie Pie! Bunga! How do you two remember everything about everypony?” Matilda asked them.

“Well, I may not be as smart as Pinkie. But we do share one thing in common together.” Bunga shared.

“'Cause everypony's my friend and I love to see my friends smile!” Pinkie added before the two silliest members of the Guard get into a tune together.

“My name is Pinkie Pie (Hello!)”

“And my name is Bunga (Hello!”

“And we are here to say (How ya doin'?)

We’re gonna make you smile and we will brighten up your day

It doesn't matter now (What's up?)

If you are sad or blue (Howdy!)

'Cause cheering up my friends is just what Pinkie and Bunga's here to do.”

The two sang while removing the dark shade from one pony’s attempted relaxation spot along with two depressed ponies along for a hayride courtesy of Big Macintosh before playing jump rope with the young fillies.

“'Cause we love to make you smile, smile, smile

Yes we do

It fills our heart with sunshine all the while

Yes it does

'Cause all we really need's a smile, smile, smile

From these happy friends of mine

We like to see you grin (Awesome!)

We love to see you beam (Rock on!)

The corners of your mouth turned up is always Pinkie and Bunga's dream (Hoof bump!)

But if you're kind of worried

And your face has made a frown

We'll work real hard and do my best to turn that sad frown upside down.”

They sang while helping playing jump rope with a lonely Apple Bloom before continuing their way through town.

“'Cause we love to make you grin, grin, grin

Yes we do

Bust it out from ear to ear let it begin

Just give us a joyful grin, grin, grin

And you fill us with good cheer.”

They sang while going on over to Sweet Apple Acres to help Applejack and Ono paint the barn.

“It's true some days are dark and lonely

And maybe you feel sad.”

They briefly sang in a slightly blue and downbeat tone before warming back up to their usual cheerful tone back into town.

“But Pinkie and Bunga will be there to show you that it isn't that bad

There's one thing that makes me happy and makes my whole life worthwhile

And that's when we talk to our friends and get them to smile

We’re really am so happy

Your smile fills us with glee

We give a smile we get a smile

And that's so special to us.”

They sang with a majority of the town following after them before jumping from one rooftop to another with the others following suit.

“'Cause we love to see you beam, beam, beam

Yes we do

Tell us what more can we say to make you see

That we do

It makes us happy when you beam, beam, beam

Yes it always makes our day.”

They sang when their friends all walk by their side with Applejack and Beshte lifting them up from the ground

“Come on everypony smile, smile, smile

Fill our heart up with sunshine, sunshine

All we really need's a smile, smile, smile

From these happy friends of mine.”

They sang while everyone else joins in on the song.

“Come on everypony smile, smile, smile

Fill my heart up with sunshine, sunshine

All we really need's a smile, smile, smile

From these happy friends of mine.”

“Yes the perfect gift for us

Is a smile as wide as a mile

To make us happy as can be.”

They sang with everyone standing behind while holding hooves on each other’s shoulders.

“Come on everypony smile, smile, smile

Fill our heart up with sunshine, sunshine

All we really need's a smile, smile, smile

From these happy friends of.”

“Smile, smile, smile, smile, smile.”

“Come on and smile

Come on and smile.”

They finished singing before coming face to face with a donkey with blue eyes and black hair.

“We've never seen you before.” They said to him.

“Kid, you're smarter than you look.” He blankly said to them while walking by with their wagon of belongings in tow.

“Thanks! I'm Pinkie Pie. “

“And I’m Bunga.”

The two greeted before focusing their attention on the donkey still pressing forward.

“What's your name?”

"Property of C.D.D." I'm guessing that last "D" is for "Donkey".

“Quick as a whip, kid.” He remarked still not paying attention to either of them.

“Now, how 'bout that "C"?”

“Hmm... Calvin? Calhoun? Caleb? Carl? Carmine? Carlo? Charlie? Chester? Chico? Claudio? Cletus? Clifford? Coraline? Cornelius? Cortez? Crank? Christopher–?”

They each traded and repeatedly asked until he irritably answered just to get them to leave him alone.

“Cranky! It's Cranky, alright?!”

“And your middle name?” Pinkie pressed.

“Doodle.” He quietly mumbled in reply.

“I'm sorry?” Bunga questioned.

“Doodle.” He repeated rather quickly.

“One more time...!” Pinkie asked.

“Doodle.” He answered more clearly.

“So you're a Cranky Doodle Donkey?” Pinkie then said before breaking out in a small verse.

“You're a Cranky Doodle Donkey guy.

A Cranky Doodle Donkey.

We never met you but you're our new friend

and we’re your best friends Pinkie Pie and Bunga!”

“C'mon now, Doodle, give a smile!” Bunga urged him while trying force his lips into smiling to no avail.

“Nopony and nobody calls me Doodle!” He angrily told the two before pressing forward leaving them startled with what had just happened.

“What just happened?” Bunga asked Pinkie. “Meet somepony new, check. Introduce ourselves, check. Sing random song outta nowhere, check. Become instant best friends... uncheck. I don't get it.”

“How can somepony not become instant best friends with me?” Pinkie also wondered. “Was it something I said? Was it something I sang?” Then she got serious. “This is no time for the blame game, Pinkie and Bunga! There's somepony new in town, and you need to win him over!” She said with determination before writing in her checklist to make sure of that. “'Try everything you can to make Cranky smile and be your friend'... Check!”

The two proceeded to follow after him while hiding from behind a building to another to avoid being seen for the moment.

“Alright, Bunga. If you're gonna win Cranky's friendship, you're gonna have to bring your A game!” She declared while pounding her fists together.

“Let's do this.” Bunga agreed before they approached him.

“Howdy-doody, Cranky Doodle!” Pinkie greeted the donkey who just ignored her.

“So, uh, are you moving to Ponyville, Cranky?” Bunga asked.

“What gave you the hint there, kid? The cart full of stuff, maybe?” Cranky sarcastically commented.

“Well, we’d be happy to show you around.” Pinkie offered.

“It's the least a new friend can do.” Bunga added while wrapping his arm around the donkey’s neck.

Cranky managed to remove his neck from Bunga’s arm before speaking up his refusal once more.

“Listen, kids, I traveled around Equestria my entire life. I've made many friends. I don't need any more.“

“Gosh! I could never have too many friends!”

“Me neither.”

The two responded while waving to two nearby ponies walking by.

“Well, why don't you go and make some more?” Cranky suggested while gesturing them to leave him alone.

“But we don't need to go.” Pinkie replied still not taking the hint.

“Why would we need to do that when we can stay and make friends... with you.” Bunga added while Pinkie ties the donkey’s ears together in a bowtie formation which only lasted a few seconds before undoing itself when they drooped back downwards.

“Look, kids, y–“ He tried to tell them before being interrupted by the cheerful duo.

“Oh, Cranky, you can call me Pinkie.”

“And you can call me Bunga. Like all of our friends do.”

“Look, kids, I came to Ponyville for some peace and quiet and privacy, to be alone with my memories. All I want is to get to my new home and unpack my stuff.” He irritably told the two who then started looking through his belongings.

“Ooh, what does this bauble do?” Pinkie wondered while holding up said object.

“Don't touch that!“ He scolded her when Bunga picks up.

“Ooooooh, what's this?” Bunga questioned while holding up a toy.

“Please, don't!” Cranky pleaded of them while pulling up wind chimes.

“Oooh, look at these!” Pinkie examined them until Cranky confiscated both items.

“Pinkie! Bunga! Keep your hooves off my wagon!” He chastised them.

“Okay, Cranky.” Pinkie obliged with a sad sigh while Bunga backs away with raised arms.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to dig a little too deep there.” He also apologized when Pinkie gets another idea in her idea to help him out.

“We promised not to touch your wagon, so I brought one of my own!” Pinkie presented hers. “I use it to welcome folks!”

“Who'd'a guessed?” Cranky dully replied.

“Maybe we can be wagon buddies!” Bunga suggested to which is met with the donkey turning aside so he can continue forward.

“Well, you've gotta at least let me give you the special welcome that comes with it...“ Pinkie insisted with a sad pouty faced whimper to which Cranky groaned unable to find it in his heart to say no to her.

“Let's get this over with.” He relented.

“That's the spirit!” Bunga cheerfully responded feeling and seeing pleased at the sight when Pinkie breaks out the welcome song complete with dancing and loud drums.

“Welcome welcome welcome

A fine welcome to you

Welcome welcome welcome

I say how do you do?

Welcome welcome welcome

I say hip hip hurray

Welcome welcome welcome

To Ponyville today.”

“Wait for it!” Pinkie told him when nothing else happened until confetti blasted out of the wagon which accidentally blew off Cranky’s wig.

“Noooo!”

Before any of them could react further the wagon had cake batter erupt from the machine which landed and splattered all over everyone.

“Oops.” Bunga responded upon seeing what happened.

“I must've put the confetti in the oven and the cake in the confetti cannons! Again!” Pinkie added before giggling and eat the batter coatings. “Try some, Cranky, it's sure to make you smile.”

Cranky on the other hoof was in no mood to try it because he had something more important to find. His wig.

“Oh, where is it, where is it?”

“Where's what? “ Bunga questioned before noticing his toupee. “Oh that!”

“What?” Pinkie questioned before turning to see it is on her flank to which she yelped upon seeing it. “Spider! Big hairy spider!”

Pinkie then stomped on the toupee relentlessly to which Bunga tried to speak up.

“Uh…Pinkie…”

“Stop, stop, stop!” Cranky shouted at her to which she obeys. But by then the damage had been done.

“Oh. Was that your wig?” Pinkie realized to which is met with a growl from the glaring donkey. “Oh my gosh! I am so super sorry!”

“Yeah! We can fix this!” Bunga backed her up with Pinkie dragging the donkey to the Ponyville Spa in an attempt to make fix this.

“Ladies, this is a spa emergency. Cranky needs help, STAT.” Pinkie reported to the workers who immediately got to work in giving him a well-deserved treatment which consisted of a nice massage, a steam room relaxation, a hooficure, and a massage to relax the tense muscles.

Even though Cranky feels a little more relaxed, his toupee is gone.

“Hi, Cranky!” Pinkie greeted with Bunga for company.

“We have a gift for you!” Bunga added while presenting a gift.

“The spa treatment was gift enough.” Cranky politely tried to decline.

“It's not going to explode or anything. Promise. Just open it!” Pinkie swore this one doesn’t have any surprise confetti in it. And true to her word it is something that he really needed. “It's a new toupee! I had my friend Rarity make it. She calls it the "dreamboat special".” She explained while handing him a mirror so he can get a good look at it.

“This is wonderful.” Cranky felt pleased while still stoic in the face of the wide grinning duo. “Thanks, kids.”

The two expected a smile out of that but they didn’t get it when he turned to leave.

“He's starting to warm up, but still no smile.’ Bunga said to Pinkie while the two think of something to try to get to the root of how to get a smile from him before making their way over to Cranky’s new home arriving just as he was putting his stuff away. A nice little cottage located outside of Ponyville, a perfect home for someone looking for a nice and quiet place to settle in.

“Hey!”

“Whatcha doing there, ol' buddy ol' pal?”

The two greeted.

“What's it look like?” Cranky grumpily pointed out to his many belongings placed around the ground outside of his cottage.

“Looks like a yard sale.” Pinkie misunderstood while popping her head out from Cranky’s record player holding up a snowglobe. “I'll give you two bits for this!”

“I'm not selling, kid. I'm unpacking.” Cranky corrected while continuing to push the record player inside.

“Oh!” Bunga understood. “That makes sense.”

“You think?” Cranky remarked sarcastically while placing his record player onto the table in front of him inside the house.

“This is so pretty! Where'd you get it?” Pinkie inquired while taking a look around and balancing the snow globe on her nose.

“Manehattan. Now put it down, gently.” Cranky answered while firmly yet gently requesting of the mare to which she does so.

“Really? What were you doin' there?” Pinkie asked sounding intrigued hearing he has been there.

“Trying to find a friend.” Cranky answered rather sadly.

“Oooh, We’re always trying to find friends, and today we found you.” Bunga recalled.

“See how good I am at it?” Pinkie added.

“This was a special friend.” Cranky told them. “A one of a kind friend.”

“Like us?” Pinkie asked.

“No, you're extra special, kid.” Cranky answered. “As eager and trying to please me special.”

“Yes! We’re in!” The two shared a fist bump together before the pink earth pony eyes a special red glittering ornament.

“Woow, where in Equestria did you get this, Cranky?” She asked.

“Fillydelphia.” He replied.

“It's awfully pretty.” Bunga complimented.

“Yes, she was.” Cranky answered rather somberly to which Bunga picks up that the special valuables are reminding him of someone close to his core.

“Huh?” Pinkie questioned when Cranky immediately recomposed himself to his irritable state.

“I mean, it was– I mean, it is. Yes, it's pretty. Now put it down!” He ordered of her to which Bunga gently places the ornament down onto the table but not before she notices a special scrapbook right next to it.

“I wonder where Cranky got this.” Pinkie wondered to which Bunga expressed hesitation feeling they are starting to push their luck now. “Huh. Will you look at that?” She wondered upon peaking inside the book.

“Um, Pinkie…” Bunga spoke up rather nervously while taking away the book. “…Maybe we shouldn’t…”

Suddenly, she ended up stepping on a loose plank which sent the ornament flying across the room to cut the lantern on the ceiling loose in the book’s direction. Luckily, Bunga quickly intercepted the lantern and tossed it out the window before it could get burned.

“Now what is going on…” Cranky began while walking inside only to react in alarm upon seeing his personal scrapbook messed with. “…Hey! What is the meaning of this?!” He angrily asked while confiscating the book. “Do I ever go snooping around your private belongings when I first met you?”

“No.” Pinkie and Bunga both replied honestly albeit shamefully.

“No!” Cranky repeated while gesturing to the door. “Now Listen to me, you two, it is time for you both to leave!”

“But Cranky…” Bunga pleaded.

“I mean it!” Cranky repeated rather sharply and more boldly to make it perfectly clear they have overstayed their welcome. “Go now and never come back!”

“Never, or never-ever?” Pinkie felt the need to ask when Bunga walks out of the house without further protest.

“Never, ever, ever, ever, ever!” Cranky emphasized while slamming the door in the pony’s face that he means never again.

“That's four 'evers'. That's like... forever!” Pinkie sadly realized as she teared up and not in a comedic fashion but the sad and solemn heartbreaking fashion.

“Yep. And we sure deserved it.” Bunga sadly accepted why Cranky took issue with their constant bugging of him. As much as Bunga hates to admit it, he knows he went too far when someone gives them the boot and can only comfort the sobbing pink earth pony while they make their way back to Ponyville.

By the time they went to the Golden Oaks Library, Pinkie has calmed down from her crying but the sadness from what had just happened still remains. There the two explained to Twilight and Rainbow Dash both discussing Daring Do at the time before they arrived along with Ono and Kyoga doing research there as well with had just transpired since this morning.

“I just can't believe it. Cranky said he would never forever be my friend. It was horrible.” Pinkie still expressed her hurt feelings.

“Well, considering you were snooping in on his scrapbook, I wouldn’t blame him.” Ono responded that he isn’t surprised that he did that. “Common knowledge, really?”

“Can’t say you both didn’t have it coming.” Kyoga added while pulling no punches. “And what he is going surely rings some bells when that's coming from me.”

“Well yes…” Pinkie didn’t even deny it. “…but we just couldn’t help it or really I couldn’t help it since it was my fault it nearly got burnt.”

“Look…” Twilight sympathetically began in a kind tone. “…I know this is hard for you, Pinkie, seeing that you're friends with everypony, but you just have to accept that Cranky is gonna be an exception. He just... doesn't want to be bothered. And if you recall when Kyoga first showed up, even though she eventually became our friend we had to allow time for her to be willing to accept our friendship.”

“Yeah, and no offense, but it was rude of you with what you two did.” Rainbow took the time to bluntly comment. “If I were in his hoof steps I wouldn’t want to be bothered by your over-the-top super-hyper antics.”

“Rainbow!” Twilight chided her for that. “Isn’t the feeling of guilt they have right now bad enough?”

“No, no, it's okay, Twilight. We get what you're saying.” Bunga accepted their criticism.

“What you're both saying. And I guess... we can leave Cranky alone....” Pinkie agreed to which Twilight smiled seeing they got the right idea now. “…although…I still feel we owe him an apology.”

“I suppose.” Twilight reluctantly agreed. “But you both will give an apology and an apology only and nothing more and nothing less and that’s an order.”

“Okay.” They both agreed while performing the Pinkie Promise routine just to cement it before heading back over there.

“Follow them and make sure they adhere to their promise.” Twilight requested of Kyoga.

“Will do, Twilight.” She nodded before following after them to his cottage where the donkey himself is sadly looking inside the past memories inside his scrapbook.

Just after leaving, she then thought of the special friend of Cranky’s Pinkie and Bunga mentioned and then figured out the main reason why Cranky is Cranky before quickly setting out to find the donkey’s friend. Sure she would have caught up to Pinkie and Bunga before doing so but knowing them they have already made it back to his cottage. For someone who has been separated from his family, Kyoga understands what Cranky is going through.

“Cranky.” Pinkie called out while knocking on the door.

“No! No! Please leave me alone!” He pleaded of them.

“Wait!” Bunga called out to him. “Please, I understand that you don't want us as friends but we are only coming by to say we’re sorry!”

“Fine! You said it!” Cranky responded with a begrudging sigh while silently feeling regret for blowing up at them.

“So do you accept our apology?” Pinkie asked.

“If you two go and stay away from me for good.” Cranky replied still not wanting to have anything to do with them.

“Wait! Hold up!” Kyoga called out to him while arriving at the cottage. “Before they leave you alone forever, I have something to at least try to make up for them giving you a hard time.”

Pinkie and Bunga both were left wondering for a second what until they saw who was following after the lioness.

“Please…” Kyoga kindly insisted that he hears her out. “…I know we have just met. But I know exactly what you’re going through. Before meeting them, all I wanted was to be left alone. And sure they can be annoying at times…” She added to which the two were about to argue before dropping it knowing with how true it is. “…but they both mean well…” They then smiled hearing that. “…and only wanted to bring some cheer into your heart. So could you at least let them have one last thing to give you to say they’re sorry for giving you a hard time?”

“Like what?!” Cranky skeptically questioned. “Anything they would give me is sure to lead to some sort of disaster!”

“Goodness, you really are cranky.” The lady that joined Kyoga said to him from outside to which got his attention.

“It can't be...” Cranky thought to himself while getting his blonde wig. “Is it really you?”

“It can, and it is.” She confirmed.

“Matilda! But how?” He wondered how this is all possible.

“Kyoga.” She answered who simply gave a humble smile.

“But... I never told you about her!” Cranky pointed out.

“You didn't have to.” She replied. “I just put two and two and two together and it added up to Matilda.”

“What?”

“Well, when you were talking to Pinkie and Bunga about your souvenirs, you said something about trying to find a special friend! It wasn’t hard once I looked around for the one and only lady donkey in town.” She explained to the astonished donkey. “I mean it’s not like I was born yesterday.”

“Nuh-uh!” Pinkie confirmed. “And my birthday isn't for another seventy five days!”

“Huh?”

“Plus in your scrapbook, there was a flower, an old ticket, and a menu from the Grand Galloping Gala! And I knew I recognized all these things.” Pinkie added.

“But how could you have ever seen them before?”

“Because I also have them in my scrapbook.” Matilda presented said book in her possession.

“Oh, Matilda. The night we met at the Gala was the most magical night of my life.” Cranky recalled the memory of when they were young with the male donkey feeling completely love-struck when Matilda kissed him on the cheek before following after her for a night worthy conversation. “I couldn't wait to see you again. But when I came to your room the next day, you were gone.” He recalled finding her room empty when he passed by.

“Didn't you get my note?” Matilda asked.

“No, I never got it.” He answered that he missed the note taped to the front door from the inside. “Ever since that day I've gone from town to town to town, searching all over Equestria for you...” He then recalled doing so searching the world for her while growing older and older and sadder and sadder as the years go by. “...Until finally I gave up. I came to Ponyville to retire from my search.”

“I was living in Ponyville the whole time.” Matilda revealed much to his surprise. “I always hoped that someday you would come and find me... Doodle.”

“What?” Bunga questioned rather surprised that he didn’t flip out like he did to him and Pinkie.

“Um Matilda, nopony calls him Doodle.” Pinkie reminded.

“Nopony... but Matilda.” Cranky responded before sharing a long overdue affectionate reunion with her special friend.

“Oh, Doodle, I'm so happy to see you.” Matilda happily expressed while kissing him on the nose which perked up a smile from the donkey much to Pinkie and Bunga’s excitement.

“So does this mean that you accept our apology?” Pinkie hopefully asked.

“Yes, Pinkie, I accept your apology, and I am honored to call you two my friends since you both went way, way, way out of your way to make me happy.” Cranky warmly returned with a smile.

Both Pinkie and Bunga were both very ecstatic when they sat down before bursting up into the sky with fireworks bursting from behind.

“Woo-hoo!”

“This is Un-Bunga-veiable we did it!”

They cheered while high-fiving each other.

“Congratulations you two!” Kyoga complimented. “Now how about we let them catch up on some quality time together?” She suggested to leave them be while gesturing to the couple walking inside the house.

“Of course.”

“Probably for the best.”

The two decided it was for the best before either one of them picks up the shovel again.

During the way back home they had enough time to come with their lastest friendship report for the princess.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

There are many different kinds of friends, and many ways to express friendship. Some friends like to run and laugh and play together. But others just like to be left alone, and that's fine too. But the best thing about friendship is being able to make your friends smile.

Signed Pinkie and Bunga.”

Author's Note

In this episode we now have a Pinkie and Bunga episode where the most comedic duo of the Guard gets a chance to shine when they come across one frowning face that prefers to be alone. And that desire proves to be difficult when the two try to cheer him up with predictable results from their antics.

Here I felt it was best to dial down their Innocently Insensitive behavior down in this version in order to make their actions in this version more likeable yet fully grasp they know when to back off when they went too far.

It took some time for both sides to come to an understanding and everything to piece together but it all worked out in the end.

Next up is "The Trail to Udugu." where Kion and Kiara both go on a journey to the titular trail with Nala, Twilight, and Princess Celestia while Simba and Luna both the led the guard in Kion and Twilight's absence.

Episode 28: The Trail to Udugu

Episode 28:

The Trail to Udugu

On a quiet day in the Pride Lands, Kiara is currently sniffing for something and trying to pick up someone’s scent. She sniffed it to a large rock in front of her and detects that her target is right on the other side. At the same time Twilight is currently using her magic to scan around for her target before making her way through the rocks up to the large rock as well.

“I’ve got this!” Twilight voiced with confidence.

“Now I got ya.” Kiara said before quickly appearing on the other side of the rock to tackle her target, her younger brother Kion with Twilight already there barely dodging her in time and entrapping the two siblings with her.

“Impressive, Kiara.” Twilight complimented. “You almost had me in the end.”

“Sorry, couldn't help myself.” Kiara chuckled knowing that targeting one of the two opened the door for the other before Twilight let the two siblings go.

“How'd you find me?” Kion asked.

“Mom's been teaching me how to track by scent.” Kiara answered. “Pretty good, huh?”

“Or pretty lucky!” Kion playfully downplayed it before tackling his sister in a friendly tussle while Twilight giggles in their direction.

Above her, Simba, Nala, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna are all proudly watching and observing the three’s little training session together.

“She's never found him that quickly before.” Simba noted to Nala of their daughter’s progress.

“Her tracking skills are improving.“ Nala added. “Just as much as Twilight’s magic has improven.”

“Indeed.” Luna said in agreement while turning to her sister. “Your student has shown great reflexes and perfect reaction to her surroundings.”

“She sure has.” Celestia sees that too with a nod. “And they all are evenly matched.”

“And that means they're ready. Today's the day.” Nala voiced of what this means before they all make their way over to the three.

“Ha! Missed again.” Kiara said to her brother while trying to tackle each other to the ground until Nala cleared her throat to get her attention.

“Mom! Dad! I caught him faster than ever this time.” Kiara cheerifully announced.

“Only because I let you.” Kion protested.

“Oh, yeah? You gonna "let" me pin you, too?” Kiara playfully challenged preparing for another tussle until Twilight used her magic to separate them with a forced smile just as Simba gets in between his children.

“Okay, okay. That's enough, you two.” Simba encouraged his children while placing a stopping paw on his son before giving his daughter a disapproving look for when she blew a raspberry at Kion.

“I have a surprise for you.” Nala then told her children. “You're both coming with me on the Trail to Udugu.”

“The Trail to Udugu?” Kiara questioned in confusion while glancing to her brother if she knows what it means.

“Where's Udugu? I've never heard of it.” Kion also asked since he too has no idea what it is.

“Is it in the Pride Lands?” Kiara asked.

“You'll see.” Nala returned with a light chuckle when Simba explains its importance to them.

“Taking the Trail to Udugu is an important part of growing up in the royal family.”

“And all royal siblings make the journey when they're ready.” Nala added.

“Did you go on it, Dad?” Kiara asked her father.

“I never had the chance. I don't have a brother or sister.” Simba honestly answered before turning to his son. “And don't worry about your Lion Guard duties, Kion. While you're gone, I will be leading the Guard.”

“You will?” Kion asked in a rather surprised tone.

“Really?” Twilight asked with a quirked eyebrow.

“Perhaps your friends could learn a thing or two from their King.” Simba returned certain it will go through no problem.

“Along with one of their princesses.” The white alicorn added while turning to her student. “Because Princess Luna will be also be taking over leading the Guard in your absence.”

“What?! Why?!” Twilight questioned rather taken aback with her ears drooping in utter shock while Luna takes it in stride. “I mean…” She tried correcting herself before she could ramble, tear up, and break down from her sudden hurt feelings. “…Not saying that no one else is capable of doing it but with all due respect but why me too? I thought we were past the Smarty Pants incident.”

“Twilight…” Her teacher calmly assured while getting her to look at her in the eyes. “…this has nothing to do with that and it’s not because you did anything wrong.”

“Really?” She asked feeling slightly relieved.

“The reason why my sister will be taking over your position is because we need you to join both Kion and Kiara on the trip to the Trail to Udugu.” Celestia further explained.

“Huh?” Twilight replied still confused while turning to the two adult lions. “And you’re both okay with this?”

“Of course, Twilight.” Simba answered. “Since both Kion and Kiara have both bonded more closely together because of you. We think it’d be very fitting for the pony who’s helped them this far to accompany them on this journey.”

“Oh, okay.” Twilight understands now while both Kion and Kiara both surprised that she would be asked to accompany them acknowledge with how true it is while turning to the night monarch. “And I know for a fact that the girls will be more than happy to hear that you’ll be leading the Guard, Princess.”

“I’m sure it be a learning experience they shall never forget.” Luna replied with a nod that she is looking forward to it.

“I know Bunga will love it.” Kion added.

So with that said, both Twilight and Kion head on over to the Lair of the Guard so they can rely this temporary leadership change to their team.

“Well I‘ll be willickers!” Applejack commented.

“Princess Luna?”

“Simba?”

“Their Royal Highness's?”

“Leading the Lion and Pony Guard?”

Fluttershy, Fuli, Ono, and Beshte all voiced their surprise hearing this.

“Cool!”

“Un-Bunga-lievable!”

Both Pinkie and Bunga voiced their excitement to this.

“Don't get too used to them.” Twilight reminded them as it is only for a day.

“See you when we’re back from Udugu.” Kion told the team before leaving with Twilight following after him.

“Good luck.”

“Take care, Twilight.”

“Bye, Kion!”

“See ya later!”

“Bye.”

“Be safe, darlings.”

“See you soon!”

“Have fun!”

“Tell us all about it when you get back!”

“See you soon!”

Beshte, Applejack, Bunga, Pinkie, Fuli, Rarity, Ono, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Kyoga in that order wish them luck.

“Poa! The King, Princess, and us!” Beshte was the first to express his excitement.

“This is should be fun!” Rainbow was also excited to the point she was flapping her wings.

“It’s a huge honor!” Rarity expressed rather more nervously.

“I'm not worried.” Fuli shrugged it off while resting her paws on top of a nearby boulder. “Our king is just like Kion, but bigger.”

“And believe me when I tell you since I know Princess Luna very well.” Kyoga adopted the same mental mindset.

“How can you be so calm? Both the king and princess could be here any moment.” Ono voiced rather frantically to which Rarity gasped upon seeing something that Ono also didn’t like.

“My feathers! I need to clean up.” Ono panicked before doing so with his beak.

“And I need to pretty myself up.” Rarity also was quick to put on some makeup.

“Hapana! The whole lair's a mess!” Ono exclaimed upon seeing the weeds and vegetation inside.

“Already on it!” Rarity quickly went over with a pair of hedge clippers to take care of that.

“Apparently I didn’t do a good job and trimming them down well enough.” Applejack voiced rather annoyed and sarcastically while shaking her head but letting it slide while Fuli, Rainbow, Pinkie, and Bunga share a shrug together at the two getting all crazy over a one day thing.

“Even when she’s gone a part of her still lies within the team.” Kyoga quietly said to herself before Bunga and Pinkie decide to cheer their anxious friends up.

“It’ll be okay, Rarity!” Pinkie cheerifully assured. “We’ve meet the king and the princesses before. Surely a day on patrol with them be a piece of cake.”

“Exactly!” Bunga agreed. “I know Simba pretty well. And you've got nothing to worry about. Let me tell ya what he's like.”

When You're Running With the King

By the time Bunga was done singing his praises of the lion king to the sky, he along with the dark-colored alicorn princess have both arrived.

“That’s pretty good although…” Pinkie said while styling her mane to Luna’s similar to when Bunga styled his hair into Simba’s style. “…If thou were here, she thou command thee to follow my lead and fly right.” She stated while shouting loudly but not as long as the royal Canterlot voice but enough to create in echo inside the lair.

“Ahem.” Simba addressed the honey badger clearly unamused by their antics.

“Is that supposed to me?” Luna stoically and sternly asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Oh...Hey there, Simba, Luna.” Bunga along with Pinkie greeted with a nervous chuckle before remembering their manners to royalty. “Um, uh, Your Highnesses.”

“Greetings.”

“Sir. Ma’am.”

“Your Majesty.”

Rarity, Ono, Fuli, and Beshte greeted while they along with the rest of the girls bow before them.

“Greetings, Pony Guard.” Luna returned while still eyeing at Pinkie Pie sternly.

“Hello, Lion Guard.” Simba also returned the greeting. “I will admit, Bunga did get one thing right in his... ...performance.”

“The way you walk? Your smile? Your fabulously groomed mane?” Bunga eagerly guessed.

“Uh, no.” Simba shook his head much to his surprise. “I am excited to lead the Lion Guard along with Princess Luna.”

“And I look forward to the wondrous opportunity to get to know you more along with more of my fellow subjects.” Luna added rather stoically.

“Now, first things first. Are we ready for morning patrol?” Simba then asked everyone.

“Yes, sir!”

“Yes, ma’am!”

“Definitely!”

“Ready!”

“So am I.”

“Me too.”

“We’re right behind you!”

“Of course!”

“Affirmative! Uh... Your Majesty.”

Beshte, Pinkie, Fuli, Rainbow, Bunga, Fluttershy, Kyoga, Rarity, and Ono voiced that they are ready.

“Then let's move out.” Simba declared. “Lion Guard, follow me.”

“Let’s go, Pony Guard!” Luna also declared before leading their team out of the lair.

“You heard him, let's go!” Bunga urged the team to follow them before being the first to follow after them.

“In case you’re wondering, I was just doing an impression.” Pinkie said to the night monarch with a nervous grin.

“I understand, but I still did not think that was funny.” Luna unimpressed told her without a change in expression before pressing forward while the pink pony looks aside rather embarrassed while the other girls chuckle finding it admittedly funny.

Meanwhile Nala and Celestia are both leading the way while taking Kion, Kiara, and Twilight to the trail of Udugu.

“This is nice. It's been so long since the five of us have spent some time together.” Nala expressed very pleased with this quality time together.

“It sure is.” Celestia agreed.

“What do you think's waiting for us in Udugu?“ Kion wondered.

“Maybe a bunch of animals who want to meet their future Queen...” Kiara guessed. “…And her little brother.” She added with a smug smirk in the prince’s direction.

“"Little brother?"” Kion took offense to that remark. “I'm leader of the Lion Guard! If they'd wanna meet anyone, it's me.”

“We'll see about that.” Kiara responded without a change in expression. “Race ya!” She then challenged while getting a head start.

“You're gonna lose. I run with Fuli every day.” Kion returned before being quick to join by her sister’s side while running ahead of the others who express silent disagreement with their stance coming into this journey.

“I'll get to Udugu first!” Kion declared.

“Oh, no, you won't!” Kiara returned before tugging on his tail before tackling him to the ground to which Twilight just sighs with still smiling and continuing to walk alongside with their mother and her mentor.

“You two could compete over anything, couldn't you?” Nala commented with a knowing smile.

“Yes!” They both agreed with the lioness throwing a cheap slap on her brother’s face with his back turned.

“Does this remind you of anything?” Celestia asked her student who tries hard not to think about it.

“Only too well.” She vaguely and honestly answered yet wishes not to go into it more to which her mentor understands why for both reasons. Herself and Twilight when it comes to their siblings.

“At least you agree on that.” Nala said to the two before pressing forward. “Come on. We have a long way to go.”

While the two cubs follow after their mother, Twilight took the time to have a quick private word with the princess and queen while getting ahead the cubs.

“If I may your majesties, I know why you want me to accompany them on this journey. But between you and me why am I needed on a journey for siblings to work together?”

“Because since you’ve been coming out on top whenever you three have a sparring match together. It makes perfect sense the one to keep them working together.” Nala gently answered.

“Okay.” Twilight nodded.

“Now since you know teamwork very well, here what we want you to do…” Celestia then began giving her instructions while leaning her ear so she can whisper it to her to which she nods and responds yes in further understanding.

Meanwhile the Guard is out on patrol where they come to a fork in the middle of the tall grass path.

“Uh, Your Majesty?” Ono stammered while addressing their king seeking to go to the left.

“Yes, Ono?” Simba returned.

“Well, it's not a big deal... But, uh...” Fluttershy too stammered a little until Applejack stopped her from hurting herself by placing calming hooves on her shoulders.

“Easy there, sugarcube.” Applejack told her before turning to the lion king. “What both Ono and Fluttershy are both trying to say is that on morning patrol, Kion and Twilight usually goes this way.”

“Is that so?“ Simba noticed the path Fuli gestured him towards. “And is Kion here?” He then questioned slightly serious and rather darkly as if they are questioning his leadership.

“No, sir.” Beshte honestly answered.

“It’s just we think this is the best way of doing the routine that we are usually accustomed to.” Kyoga gently suggested.

“Maybe we should listen to them.” Luna also attempted to advise the red-maned lion.

“Nonsense.” Simba dismissed it. “So what if we go a different way for a change? What’s the harm in that?”

“That’s right what is the harm in that?” Bunga agreed without hesitation before going down the path on the left of the fork. “You heard the King. We'll go this way for a change. It'll be fun.”

“Yes. "Fun."” Simba felt pleased while the Lion Guard reluctantly follows after him.

“Should we say something to him?” Applejack asked Princess Luna who shook her head in response.

“No, it’ll be okay.” She told the Pony Guard along with Kyoga who decided to stay. “We’ll go the way Twilight and Kion usually go down and let the king go his way.”

“Well at least they’ll cover more ground that way.” Rainbow commented looking on the bright side of it.

“Or maybe our king doesn’t quite understand of what teamwork is all about?” Kyoga voiced her worries of how this might affect their job in the long run.

“I just hope that doesn’t come back to bite us in the flank.” Kyoga whispered to Luna who nods while understanding her concerns before leading the Pony Guard the way Kion and Twilight usually go down. Question is who’s way is truly the right one.

Elsewhere, the five travelers are currently making their way through the canyon where the royal siblings are both really excited to get there.

“Mom, how much longer will it take to get to Udugu?” Kion asked.

“That's a tough question. Udugu isn't easy to find.” Nala merely replied to which Twilight nodded in agreement.

“Don't worry, I'll find it.” Kiara remained certain otherwise. “I'm a better tracker than you.” She added while taking a moment to address her brother in pride.

“We'll see about that!” Kion returned determined to show her up before the two engage in another playful competition while circling around the others. “You really think you can find Udugu before me?” He asked before they ran off ahead.

“Just watch me.” Kiara replied while rushing ahead to keep up with him.

“Kion, Kiara, be careful!” Nala cautioned them, only her warning came a little late to when they ended up both nearly falling down the cliff ahead of them.

“I got you.” Twilight assured them before working her magic in levitating them up the hill.

“Thanks.”

“Thanks, Twilight.”

“That is definitely not the way to find Udugu” Nala told them slightly disappointed with their approach that nearly sent over the hill which left the two siblings confused while turning to Twilight.

She simply shrugged in response before continuing to follow both Nala and Celestia.

Back in the Pride Lands, both parties have covered separate ground since Simba led the Lion Guard his way, while Luna led the Pony Guard in the way Kion and Twilight usually go. Since Ono is with the Lion Guard, both Rainbow and Fluttershy both serve as the eyes in the sky.

“Oh no!” Fluttershy gasped where Rainbow looks down below and sees the problem brewing before turning to to the others.

“Princess!” Rainbow reported to the night monarch.

“What is it, Rainbow Dash!” She asked.

“Mud slide! Straight ahead!” Rainbow directed the ponies and Kyoga’s attention to said mud slide heading down the cliff. “And the mud's headed right for the ostrich herd's nest! If we don't move fast, the mud will sweep the eggs off the cliff!”

“Then we’ll have to act fast.” Luna declared before turning to the other ponies. “Rainbow Dash, divert the herd away from the hill. Fluttershy, retrieve the eggs.”

“You got it, Princess!” Rainbow saluted before she and Fluttershy fly downwards to do so.

“What should we do?” Applejack asked.

“For now stand by while I fly over and make sure it goes as planned.” Luna answered. “Be ready to move in to help should something arise.”

“Will do, princess!” Applejack nodded while she and the others watch the dark blue alicorn princess fly down to oversee the peagsus pony’s progress. “So far so good.”

“Clearly she knows what she is doing.” Rarity remarked feeling very confident following her lead.

The Lion Guard however didn’t have that luxury since Simba has a different style of leadership of wanting everyone to follow to do what he does without properly utilizing the other’s skills. And that proved to be a hindrance when he has the Guard jump rock to rock after him while he moves a nearby log to divert the mud away from the nest.

Even though Beshte would run through the mud, he is left with little choice but to follow his orders. And predictably he winds up collecting the others in the process.

Fortunately for them, Princess Luna quickly spotted them and worked her magic to cease their falling.

“Applejack, quick! Catch!” She called out to the farm pony to catch who reacted quickly when the princess sends Fuli, Bunga, and Ono their way with her lasso. “Pinkie Pie, slide on over to give them a boost!”

“Yes ma’am!” She saluted before sliding down the slope. “Wheee!”

Pinkie leaped on over side from side while flinging each Lion Guard member up towards Applejack’s direction who pulls them to safety one by one with Rarity backing her up with the pulling.

“Oh, ooh.” Rarity whined from having to touch mud. “Hang on girls!”

Thanks to the Pony Guard, the Lion Guard, the ostrichs, and their eggs are all safe.

“Is everyone okay?” Luna asked everyone.

“Yes, your majesty.”

“Affimative.”

“Yep.”

“Yeah.”

The four all nodded to confirm it.

“Ostriches, your eggs are safe.” Simba then said to them with Rainbow and Fluttershy with the latter securing them.

“Thank you, Your Majesties.” The ostrich leader gratefully thanked them. “Thank you. To think our eggs were personally saved by the King and the Princess! What an honor!”

“You’re welcome, Mbuni.” The blue maned alicorn princess humbly returned. “Although I can’t take all of the credit because we did have some help.” She added turning to the others to make sure they are given their proper dues.

“Excellent work, Lion Guard, Pony Guard.” Simba then said to the others feeling proud of their accomplishment before heading out ahead while leaving the others with rather perplexed feelings about Simba’s leadership.

Elsewhere, the five travelers have arrived at a thorn bush where Nala is ready to put her children’s skills to the test.

“Is this really the trail to Udugu?” Kion asked.

“It is.” She confirmed.

“If you tell us where Udugu is, I bet I can find an easier path.” Her daughter offered.

“There is no easy path to Udugu.”She repeated. “But there is a way to get through all these thorns without a scratch.” She demonstrated by holding up one of the branches for them to get to the center without getting pricked. “See?”

“Yeah! I can crawl under the branches to get through the thorns.” Kion said while doing so but not without having to squeeze his way through and still getting pricked.

“That wasn't exactly what I meant.” His mother pointed out.

“Of course not.” Kiara smugly responded. “Over the thorns is the way to go.”

And of of course that is met with similar results albeit slightly more painful.

“Ouch.” Twilight cringed at the sight of the pain they are putting themselves through.

“I don't think either of you is understanding me.” Nala told them they once again got it wrong.

“What's wrong, Kiara? Isn't your...plan working?”

“I'm... Ow! ... fine. I know exactly... what I'm doing.”

The two traded at each other while releasing grunts and yelps of pain along the way.

“I hope they make it.” Celestia said with a chuckle.

“Me too.” Twilight added. “I don’t know how they expect to tackle this challenge way.”

“And that’s where you come in Twilight.” Celestia encouraged her to help them.

“You know what to do?” Nala asked to make sure what she needs to teach them.

“Yes I do.” She nodded before seeing them retreat to a nearby boulder out of the cub’s sight while she herself teleports inside of the middle of the thorn bush to try to help guide them.

“This is definitely... the right way, Kiara. I'm almost through!” Kion called out to his sister while still going under.

“And I'm almost at the branch. After that it'll be... easy!” Kiara returned before turning around. “Right, Mom? Mom?”

“Mom?” Kion called out finding out along with Kiara that she isn’t around… nor is Princess Celestia.

“Celestia?” Twilight called out in slight panic when she appeared in the middle of the thorn bushes with both Kion and Kiara.

“Mom?” Both siblings called out to them while she watches from out of their sight.

“Now they're truly on the Trail to Udugu.” Nala whispered to Celestia who shares a wink with her student who returns it before pretending to act like she can’t find them.

Meanwhile in the Pride Lands, Simba still is thrilled with the work they have done and is very eager for what’s come to next. But the other’s on the other hand still can’t help but question his leadership since he really didn’t properly utilize the team’s skills and had to rely on the Pony Guard’s help in saving them.

“That was so exciting.” Simba expressed. “Your first rescue with the King. I wonder what our next challenge will be. Well, let's go, Lion and Pony Guard.”

While Simba leads the way Princess Luna sticks behind to converse with the others.

“At least he's not mad at us for nearly crashing into the ostriches nest.” Beshte first brought up.

“Why should he be? It's not your fault you can't jump like a lion.” Fuli asserted it’s not his fault before raising a question mark about Simba’s method of team management. “What's the point of being a team if we're all gonna do the same thing?”

“I don’t know.” Applejack couldn’t come up with a good answer. “From the looks of it Simba doesn’t quite understand of how the team works.”

“No question about that.” Fuli bluntly responded while Bunga still remains 100% certain that he knows what he is doing.

“Fuli, he's the King! He's gotta know what he's doing... Doesn't he?”

“When it comes to a running a kingdom, yes. But in regards, to ruling a team that actively protects the Pride Lands, no.” Kyoga firmly answered with a frown.

“Maybe we just we just haven’t completely gotten the hang of a new approach.” Fluttershy suggested.

“Yes darling, Maybe we just need to do it more Simba's way?” Rarity tries to be a little more understanding of it.

“Or maybe we just need to talk him and give proper advice on teamwork.” The alicorn princess neutrally suggested. “I may be new at leading the Guard here, but I can tell that what our king has shown could portend an unimaginable catastrophe if left unchecked.”

Before anyone could voice their opinion, Ono and Rainbow flew over to the team.

“Everyone! Everyone! The gazelles...” Ono began.

“The gazelles need our help! Lion Guard and Pony Guard, follow me!” Simba then finished before leading the way.

“And that's what we were going to say...” Rainbow groaned while shaking her head before everyone else follows after them to make sure he doesn’t do anything rash.

Back nearby the thorn bushes all three have made it out although they are all looking for both Nala and Celestia.

“Mom? Mom!” She called out for her. “No sign of Mom on my side. Have you found anything? Kion? Twilight?” She called to the other two.

“Nothing over here.” Kion reported empty-pawed while he and Twilight both emerge from the bushes .

“This just doesn’t make sense?!” Twilight voiced while looking a little frantic. “How could she just disappear? Celestia! Where are you?!”

“We'll find them.” Kion assured. “We just have to keep looking. Try your side again.”

“I tried my side.” She reminded. “If she was there I'd have seen her.”

“I know, I just... I can't find her either.” Kion explained why he asked. “If we knew where this Udugu place was, maybe we could meet her there.”

“Or we could track her.” Kiara proposed.

“That’s a great idea!” Twilight already liked the idea while activating the aura on her horn at the same time Kiara started sniffing her scent out.

“Got her! She went this way.”

“Come on!”

Both girls came up with something before leading the way.

“Kiara, Twilight, look! Paw and hoof prints.” Kion directed their attention to the marks to which Twilight examined them with her magic. “They look fresh.”

“They’re a perfect match.” Twilight confirmed they have a lock on them. “We must be getting close.”

“Come on.” Kiara led the way with the others following her but not without coming across a surprise in front of them. “What? They just stop right here?”

They have all just arrived in front of small Cliffside.

“Hevi kabisa! Where did Mom and Celestia go?” Kion wondered.

“I don’t know.” Twilight could not give an answer.

Back at the ridge where the gazelles are the Lion and Pony Guard are arriving at the horizon.

“The gazelles are just over the next ridge. There!” Simba told everyone when Ono and Rainbow fly over to get a good look at them.

“Swala and the other gazelles must be looking for a route up to that grassland. But those rocks...” Ono began to report again.

“They're unstable. The rocks will fall if the gazelles jump on them. Lion Guard and Pony Guard, follow me!” Simba again finished before rushing off ahead.

“Should we remind him how easily gazelles spook when they're surprised?” Beshte asked the others.

“Nah! Simba knows what he's doing. It'll be fine.” Bunga kept placing his faith in the king’s abilities.

“No it won’t!” Rainbow said otherwise. “He’ll cause a stampede!” She pointed out before flying after him. “I’m going to stop him before he hurts himself.”

“Rainbow, Wait!” Applejack tried to call out to her but it was too late. Once Rainbow was up to top speed there was no stopping her and true to everyone’s concerns, the gazelles were quickly spoked and starting running up the Cliffside which caused a rock slide as a result of them scattering up the hill.

Fortunately for Rainbow Dash, Princess Luna was quick to fly after her and quickly whisked her out of the falling rocks path before pulling her to safety.

“Whoa!” Rainbow screamed upon being pulled away by the princess.

But Simba himself wasn’t quite so lucky because as soon as he reached the gazelles he had to immediately retreat and barely dodge rocks coming his way.

“Simba! Your Majesty? Simba!” Ono who flew in after him called for him until he came across the lion king coughing after the dust settled.

“Good to see you, Ono.” He kindly returned.

“Your Majesty!” Ono voiced very relieved that he made it out in one piece and alive. “Everyone, he's over here.”

“Are you all right?” Beshte asked when he and the others regroup with them.

“I'm okay. Just a little stuck.” Simba answered while gesturing to his tail stuck under a rock to which the other’s winced at the sight. Cat’s tails are sensitive bones and the impact from the rock landing on it’s gotta hurt.

“Ouch! That’s gotta hurt!” Rainbow commented.

“No kidding.” Kyoga added.

Back at the other cliff-side where the others are looking for both Nala and Celestia, the three are all trying to figure how their trail suddenly went cold all of a sudden while re-examining the trail they left behind.

“This can't be right. Mom couldn't just disappear.” Kion deduced.

“I don't get it. We followed her trail. How can it just end?” Kiara couldn’t understand how.

“Maybe it doesn't.” Twilight answered while directing the sibling’s attention to what’s above them. “There's a ledge and a trail. I bet both your mom and Princess Celestia jumped up there.”

“Then we will too.” Kiara smiled. “Ready?” She asked her brother who adopted the same leaping stance as her.

“Ready!” He confirmed while seeing Twilight still had something on her mind. “Twilight? Ready?”

“Yes well actually…” Twilight began.”…that ledge is quite high for a leap.” She pointed out. “I’m not sure if any of us can just leap up there.”

“If Mom and Celestia could get up there, we can too.” Kion thinks they can but his sister had a different opinion but it as if she agrees with Twilight.

“Mom's twice our size and Princess Celestia is twice her size, Kion.” Kiara pointed out. “Not to mention she can also fly and teleport at will. How can we keep tracking her if we can't jump up?”

Kion thought for a moment before he came up with an idea.

“I've got it! I'll give you two a boost, then you can keep tracking her.”

“But what about you?” Kiara pointed out he’ll left behind and down.

“One of us has to boost the other, and the truth is... you two are the better trackers.” Kion reasoned.

“I won't argue that.” Twilight didn’t deny it.

“Though you're the one who saw the tracks and figured out Mom jumped.” Kiara pointed out to her brother.

“We all make a good team. And that's how we'll find Mom and Celestia, by working together.” Kion voiced they got this to which Twilight smiles and nods in approval of the plan.

“Then that’s what we’ll do.” Twilight vowed before helping Kiara up while Kion helps her up.

“Now up you go.” Kion told the girls with her sister starting to struggle and lose her balance until Twilight quickly placed a hoof on her back to keep her from falling while Kion steadied his balance to keep them both from falling onto him. “I gotcha! Hang on.”

“Come on Kiara, you got this!” Twilight encouraged while managing to help her reach and climb up the ledge.

“Okay Twilight, now you.” She told the unicorn who then reached out towards the ledge.

She struggled a little while grunting just to get a grip on the ledge before managing to pull her weight up.

“Okay, now you.” Twilight returned to Kion who had Kiara hold onto her back hooves so she can pull him up the ledge. “Come on, just a little closer.” She told Kiara with both Kion and Twilight’s paws and hooves are on the verge of touching each other.

“How's that?” He asked while lifting himself up the ledge to give himself a little boost.

“I think we’re gonna make it.” Twilight said while straining a little while trying to reach out to Kion until they managed to lock hooves and paws together “Yes!”

By holding on both girls were able to pull Kion up the ledge.

“Yes!”

“We did it!”

“We’re up top!”

The three cheered while sharing a high-five together. But when they turned around and opened their eyes they saw a surprising sight.

“I don't believe it.”

“Oh my…”

Both girls expressed.

“Kiara, Twilight what's going on?” Kion inquired before seeing the seemingly two disappeared figures both reappearing right in front of them.

“Hello.” Nala greeted.

“And congratulations.” Celestia added.

“Mom! Princess Celestia!” Kion smiled before embracing her. “Mom, why did you and the princess both disappear? I thought you were gonna show us the way to Udugu.”

“Actually, I think you've already found Udugu.” Celestia pointed out.

“We have?” Kiara asked before they all leaped down from the ledge.

“Is it that big rock?” Kion asked before noticing Twilight smiling in satisfaction.

“No, Kion.” Nala answered before explaining it to them. “You see, kids, Udugu isn't a place. Udugu is another word for kinship. It's the special bond between siblings. You found Udugu when you decided to work together to look for me.”

“We did?” Kion asked before turning to Twilight. “And you were in on it?”

“I was.” She confirmed. “Because you both needed a little push in the right direction and upon your mother and the princess’s request I joined in on the little action.”

“So you knew this whole time?” Kion again asked Twilight now surprised at this revelation.

“Yes.”

“And you were pretending to freak out back there?” Kiara also inquired.

“Yes.”

“Why that is…” Kion began rather baffled that she would trick them like that before realizing. “…actually quite brilliant.”

“It was…” Twilight replied while turning to her mentor. “…and I learned it from the best.”

“She sure did.” Celestia praised her student while turning to the royal siblings. “And we are both proud of you three.”

The two siblings exchange a happy smile with each other along with Twilight in understanding.

Back in the Pride Lands, Princess Luna has worked her magic in lifting up the boulder trapping Simba’s tail. Luckily for him, there was no damage done to his tail bone.

“Un-Bunga-lievable! You're one lucky lion. You could have gotten smushed.” Bunga complimented.

“You could have gotten killed!.” Pinkie added and pointed out.

“Yes, thanks.” Simba sarcastically remarked. “I really needed to hear that.”

“You certainly did.” Luna bluntly told the lion king. “Because you really didn’t do thou much favors by charging ahead like that.”

“But I was just trying to help them.” Simba defended.

“I understand but that ended up doing more harm than good.” Luna still lectured firmly yet understanding. “I may too be learning how to work with the Guard but if there’s one thing I’m certain about this young group of saviors is that they work as a team. Whatever they do to protect both our kingdoms is done together as a team approach.”

“But how were you able to lead the Guard more efficiently back at the ostrich’s nest from earlier when I nearly created a mess back there?”

“Because I know Twilight and she too knows of how to delegate tasks to the others so that everypony does their part to help out while playing to their strengths. A skill that a princess such as myself learned when I needed something to get done when I can’t do it myself. ” Luna answered taking into account the Mane Five’s strengths and weaknesses.

“Is that so…” Simba replied rather speechless than the last time he said it.

At that moment they heard more cries for help to which Ono and Rainbow were quick to fly up to find the source of the commotion. It’s both the herd of gazelles running ahead straight towards the ostriches all panicking and running circles around their eggs.

“Hapana! It's... Oh, uh...” Ono began then stumbled.

“Well? It's what?” Simba inquired.

“Sorry. I thought you were going to say it.” He apologized before continuing. “The gazelles! They're stampeding straight for the ostriches and their nest!”

“Bad day to be an ostrich egg.” Fuli commented to the others.

“Eeyup.” Applejack nodded.

“Your Majesty, what do we do?” Beshte asked turning to the lion king.

“We have to stop the gazelles.” Simba answered.

“How?” Rarity asked. “That hill is much too unstable to climb and the gazelles are already closing in on the ostriches!”

“Well…” Simba began before coming up empty on instructions this time around.

Sure he managed to get out unharmed, but required the Princess’s help in getting unstuck and his approach is what nearly created the mess with the ostriches along with what got him into the predicament in the first.

“Simba? Is everything all right?” Luna inquired.

“Because you look like you don’t know what to do.” Fluttershy added. “Is everything okay.”

“That’s because I’ve been thinking.” Simba answered with a reality check in mind. “All day I've been telling the Lion and Pony Guard to follow me, and do what I do. But that's not how your team works.”

“Nope.” Kyoga blankly answered.

“Anyways so tell me.” Simba then took Luna’s advice. “If I were Kion and Twilight, how would you handle this?”

“We'd split up.” Fuli answered. “Ono, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Beshte would go after the herd. Fluttershy, Kyoga, Pinkie, Bunga, and I would calm the ostriches down.”

“Then those are my orders.” Simba told them of what to do from there.

“Wait, wait, wait, wait! There's one more thing Kion and Twilight would do. Right?” Bunga brought up.

“Yes there is!” Pinkie agreed while widely grinning at the lion king along with the alicorn princess to do it.

“All right.” She relented with a smile before they both started their signature battle cry together.

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Princess Luna quickly teleported everyone to where the ostriches are panicking and running around before the two parties split up to carry out their tasks.

“We’ll calm the ostriches. You talk to the gazelles.” Fuli told the egret from above.

“Affirmative!” Ono quickly saluted. “Just remember, be soft and soothing like Fluttershy.”

“Got it!” Fuli replied before speeding ahead to where the ostriches are running circles around their nest with Fluttershy quick to try to take action.

“Um, ostriches! Ostriches! Ostriches!” Fluttershy softly tried to get their attention to no avail.

With time at the essence here, Fuli decided a more assertive and louder approach.

“Quiet!” She shouted to which got them all to stop and freeze in their tracks when Luna flies in to flap a gust of wind their direction to make sure they stop while using her magic to keep the eggs in their nest. “That's better.”

“And very well done.” Luna gave the cheetah a nod of respect for her assertive shout out.

“I’ll say.” Fluttershy responded with a surprised smile that actually worked.

At the same time, Applejack, Kyoga, and Pinkie Pie are both running circles to slow the herds down while Rainbow Dash flies over to the herd’s leader to try to talk to her.

“Excuse me? Hello? Swala, gazelles?” Ono tried to get their attention without further spooking them.

“What's that, Ono? Can't hear you.” Swala returned not understanding what she had just said to which Rainbow was quick to try her way instead.

“Slow down!” She shouted which got stopped everyone in their tracks allowing time for the others along with Simba to intercept and round them up.

“Whoa there partner!”

“Easy does it there!”

“Calm down!”

“It’s okay, you’re safe!”

The three girls along with Beshte said to the gazelles.

“Thank you.” Rainbow then calmly said feeling satisfied in stopping them.

“Sorry about that.” Swala apologized. “Anyways what were you saying, Ono?”

“Uh, never mind.” He answered to state that is all.

“Everyone all right?” Simba asked everyone who all nodded their heads to confirm it.

“Very good.” Luna added feeling pleased to hear that before guiding the gazelles back to their home.

“That was weird.” Fluttershy still could not believe being more loud and assertive actually did the job. “How'd you calm the ostriches?” She asked the cheetah.

“Soft and soothing. Just like you said.” She returned somewhat sarcastically to the butter-creamed peagsus pony.

“Really? That’s funny because they required a little shouting to get their attention.” Rainbow pointed out to which both the fastest members of team grinned hearing this before sharing a high five together.

“I would have never guessed that.” Ono remarked still finding it hard to believe that too before regrouping with Simba who just got done speaking with the ostriches to make sure they are okay before seeing them off.

“Nice job, everyone. Both the gazelles and ostriches are safe.” Applejack complimented everyone.

“That's because you did it your way.” Simba pointed out. “Kion and Twilight would be proud of you. And so am I.”

“Me too.” Luna added while regrouping with everyone. “You showed great improvement in one day during your temporary lead of the Guard. And I know for a fact that Celestia would be proud too.”

Hearing that left Simba smiling seeing that he learned a very valuable lesson today before they all made their way back to Pride Rock where the others have returned from their trip.

“So, everyone, how was your journey? Did you find Udugu?” Simba asked his children.

“We found it. But it's not really a place.”

“It's about us working together as brother and sister. As a team.”

Both siblings answered.

“How did things go with the Guard?” Twilight asked both Luna and Simba.

“Well, in a way, the Guard along with Princess Luna helped me find Udugu, too.” Simba admitted he too learned more about proper teamwork.

“But in the end we both managed to protect the Pride Lands in your absence.” Luna added. “And I do have to admit it was kind of fun being able swoop in save the day for once. We’ll have to arrange for me come on patrol more often.”

“Well just let me know of when you have off next and we can do it sometime soon.” Twilight was more than happy to be open to the idea.

“Udugu is an important lesson.” Celestia warmly said to everyone.

“It is, especially for you two.” Simba agreed before leading everyone to the edge of Pride Rock where the seven all stand side by side looking over the terrain of the Pride Lands. “And as Queen of the Pride Lands and leader of the Lion Guard, someday you will be responsible for all of this.” Simba then said to his children while Celestia secretly eyes Twilight with the similar thoughts in mind for her.

“So hold on to what you learned today. Then you'll always have Udugu.” Nala urged them to remember that going forward because in the end teamwork proves crucial to victory even when things are looking bleak...

...All while being watched by Scar from one of the hidden trees with Pride Rock on the horizon.

"We shall see about that Simba because I too have my sights on this kingdom as well as your precious kingdom of Equestria. And soon all of both of these kingdoms will be mine." Scar vowed with a sinister smile before teleporting away unnoticed.

Author's Note

For this episode it took me a little while to figure how to make this work before deciding on two decisions in that regard.

First off, Twilight accompanying both Kion and Kiara on the journey with Nala and Princess Celestia mainly for the reason for the fact the three work well together. And the fact that Twilight is the heart and glue that got the two siblings closer and friendlier than before.

Having said that, she is the pony for the job of encouraging the two to work together more taking in Celestia's stealth advice and Nala's instructions to give them a little push in that direction.

Then there is the Lion and Pony Guard being led by Simba and Princess Luna with the latter being more successful at managing leading the Guard that Simba considering with how his ways of leadership turned out. The reason why is because even though she is new at leading the Guard she has a better understanding with how teamwork works because of the time she spent with Twilight and Kyoga and that she hows to focus others to play to their strengths.

It wasn't until nearly getting crushed by a rock-slide that he ended causing by accident does he start leading the Guard which comes crucial when both the ostriches and gazelles nearly collide together. But the Guard was able to avert the crisis before it could even begin with a very valuable lesson on teamwork coming into play today.

Next up is "Putting Your Hoof Down." where Fluttershy and Ono get pointers on learning of how to be properly assertive.

Episode 29: Putting Your Hoof Down

Episode 29:

Putting Your Hoof Down

On another fine day in Ponyville, a bright and sunny day, Fluttershy is serving lunch to her critter friends and residents at her cottage. She is now getting everyone’s attention by ringing the lunch bell.

“Lunch time!”

“Who's hungry?”

The two called out to everyone when Fluttershy pours the box of animal treats onto the floor.

“Plenty for everypony.” She told everyone gathering at the pile to hastily chow down on the food while the two float over to make sure there’s no fussing when one of the mice rudely shoves a bunny out of the way. “Slow down, sweetie.” She gently told them to which they all popped their heads towards her for a second before continuing.

“She said slow down everyone, there’s plenty for everyone.” Ono firmly repeated to which everyone stopped what they were doing before obeying his command. “Better.” He said when the pushed aside bunny is given some treats from the egret himself before seeing that everyone is eater at a more healthier pace. Clearly these critters all have really big and ravenous appetites today.

During Fluttershy’s smiling at his direction, one of the mice snatched the box and poured its contents into his mouth. Fluttershy was quick to take the box back before the little critter could get overstuffed.

Just then Angel is heard irritably tapping his foot expecting his lunch to which Fluttershy is quick to deliver by pour the box of treats into his bowl.

“Here you go, Angel bunny.” She offered to him who instead of chowing down like the others kicks the bowl up into the air and onto and over Ono’s head.

“What the…” Ono reacted rather offended by the bunny’s rude gesture along with him lifting his tiny paw right at the egret’s face. “Rude!”

“Okay, Mister Picky-pants, you win.” Fluttershy then moved to retrieve a salad from the nearby table and placed it right in front of her pet bunny. “Carrots, lettuce and apples, yum-yum-yum!”

Angel still not satisfied tossed it aside which crashed into the wall upon impact.

“What? But...” Fluttershy stammered in surprise that she would refuse to eat it.

Angel then picked up a cucumber slice while placing it into his mouth with his face turning green. Clearly he is pretending that he’ll get sick from it while lying on his back with a flower to emphasize it will kill him.

“Quite the horse crud and just eat your salad.” Ono said to him rather annoyed and having none of his stubborn attitude before Fluttershy flew over with a calming hoof.

“It’s okay, I got this.” She assured before turning back to Angel. “Well then, what will you eat?” Angel quickly and eagerly fetched a cookbook that had a salad just like the one she tried to offer but it had bananas, nuts, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. “I'm not sure I can even make that.” She voiced to which Angel further pressed her to do it. “Well... I don't want you to starve... Oh, are you sure I can't tempt you with a nice crisp piece of–“ She tried to offer him the lettuce again to which he smacked it out of her hoof, slapped her face, and then shoved the highlighted recipe in the cookbook in her face to state it must be that nothing else. “I'll make your special recipe.” She sighed.

While Fluttershy reads of what she needs to make this salad, Ono takes the time to get up right in his face.

“Consider yourself lucky Fluttershy is the kind of pony you can push around but if you were living under my wing you wouldn’t be so lucky to get your special treat because I’m not that kind of guy.” He scolded the briefly intimidated pony who didn’t even try to talk back to him before preparing to fly alongside Fluttershy for a trip to the market.

They get there and see there are many ponies with saddlebags on their backs just like Fluttershy trying to get what they need with Ono holding up her shopping list. So far they already gotten most of the vegetables they need for the salad. All they need now is asparagus, tomatoes, and a cherry.

First up is Asparagus where there are plenty of bundles of stalk for sell when a mare unicorn, suddenly cut in front of them.

“Hey!” Ono exclaimed rather frustrated by her thoughtlessness seeing that Fluttershy can’t speak up for herself here. “Excuse me!” He sharply addressed her.

“What?” She said not even paying attention to the two behind her while paying for her bundle of asparagus.

“We were first in line until you cut ahead.” He responded rather incensed when the unicorn levitates her bundle before walking away.

“Sorry, didn't notice you there.” She simply said much to the egret’s aggravation.

“I know.” Fluttershy softly said while an eldery pony approached the stand while she her back was turned from Ono confronting the rude mare.

“Hapana.” Ono groaned before they made their way back over.

“Oh, pardon me, sir–“ Fluttershy tried to speak with him when he pulls out his hearing aid, a megaphone more accurately.

“Yes, what?” He returned not understanding a word she said due to his old hearing.

“I think you just cut in front of me.” She tried to tell him.

“A cut of celery? But– this is the asparagus stand!” He responded while misinterpreting what she said to which Ono took a turn in speaking clearly into his hearing aid.

“She said you just cut in front of her.” He spoke loudly and clearly.

“Ohoh, my bad, I’m sorry but I’m already in front!” He replied as he paid for his bundle of asparagus. “I probably wouldn’t have gone ahead if you hadn’t left the line empty.”

“Right, I noticed.” Ono stoically replied while shaking his head before turning back to the stand so they can get what they need…

…at least before two teenage mares show and cut in front of them.

“...And I was like, 'Oh, wow.'” One mare absentmindedly said to her friend.

“Hey!” Fluttershy attempted to shout albeit softly at them.

“Would you mind moving back? You're in my personal space.” The mare rudely replied to which the peagsus returned widened eyes to make sure she wasn’t.

“But–“ She tried to speak in her defense only to be interrupted again by the mare’s friend.

“Seriously, do you need your asparagus so badly? Get a life.” The second pony with sunglasses told her in the same tone.

“How about you two get a life?!” Ono retorted.

“What did you say, loser?!” The mare with a bow in her mane responded feeling challenged by that remark.

“You heard me and now you listen to me!” Ono bravely fired back while glaring at the two ponies. “We were here first so back up and get a life, Miss Snooty Pants and Toots!”

The two ponies locked eyes with Ono ready for a fight until he heard a familiar voice calling out to him.

“Ono!” Kion arrived on the scene when Ono turned to face him. “Stand down!”

Ono not one to disobey an order obliges, but not before giving them the “I got my eye on you.” gesture from his wing while subtly lifting one of his wings for their eyes to see.

“Hmph.” The mare responded before turning back to the stand with a huff. “How rude of him to give us the feather.”

Ono just flew over to where the rest of the Guard have all arrived on the scene having witnessed and heard what had just happened.

“Sorry to have to pull you away like that but you really should be more careful with how you approach ponies like that.” Kion said to the egret who can only give a calming sigh.

“But we were there first and they were all cutting in line!” Ono protested.

“We understand darling. We’re just saying you should try to dial it down a notch.” Rarity sympathized before turning to Fluttershy. ”And as for you Fluttershy, you mustn't let them treat you that way.”

“Oh, it's-it's really no big deal...” Fluttershy meekly insisted but Pinkie insisted otherwise.

“It's bigger than big.”

“It's double big.” Bunga added. “You are a pony with a problem.”

“What problem?” Fluttershy asked to which the others turned to face each other before with Ono and Bunga pushing Fluttershy up in the front of the line. Taking the hint she moves forward only for Fuli to cut right in front of her to which she ended up spinning around and falling over. “Oh, go right ahead, Fuli. You first.”

“And there’s your problem.” Fuli told her before helping her up.

“You just let her walk all over you instead of standing your ground.” Rainbow added. “You’re a doormat?”

“A doormat?” Fluttershy asked having no clue what it means.

“A pushover, darling.” Rarity clarified.

“A pony others can easy do what they expect of you even though they are in the wrong.” Twilight added.

“What they mean to say is you gotta stand up for yourself.” Kyoga added. “Show them that they are not the boss of you.”

“Yeah.” Applejack agreed. “Cause if you don’t, y’all be living life without being taken seriously.”

“Promise us that you’ll stand up for yourself.” Rarity asked of her.

“Oh, okay. I promise.” Fluttershy voiced she’ll at least try before making her way back to the stand where there is one bundle of asparagus available for her to purchase. “Oh! Good!” But before she could move to purchase it a nerdy pony with freckles and glasses wearing a green bow-tie came by and quickly purchased it. “Oh, that's okay, I don't mind.” She then voiced with slight sadness before Rarity and Beshte were quick to have her back.

“Watch and learn.” Rarity said to her before approaching the pony with a charming facade. “Hold it right there, Mister small and handsome.”

“Uh, who, me?” The pony turned while responding.

“Oh, of course you.” She nodded while continuing to flatter him. “Nopony ever called you handsome before?”

“Uhh, that'd be a big no.” He honestly replied after looking aside for a moment.

“Oh, well, they should! How about flexing some of your muscles for me?” Rarity asked of him who managed to produce a small tiny muscle after having his head and bowtie spin around in flattered delight. “Oh, my heavens!”

“Don’t suppose a strong, handsome stallion such as yourself could give my friend the last asparagus?” Beshte then popped the question with Rarity offering a bit before placing it on his nose while levitating the vegetable bundle before walking off. “Thank you so much!”

The nerdy pony was left bashing from being buttered up before walking off.

“See, that's not so hard, is it?” Rarity asked Fluttershy while placing the asparagus in her bag.

“Um... I guess not.”

“Nope.”

Both Fluttershy and Ono replied.

“There’s nothing to it.” Beshte warmly added while Rarity pulls out her shopping list. “So what else is on your list?”

“Let's see... I also need tomatoes.” Fluttershy brought up before moving forward to the tomato stand to purchase them. This time there was no pony in line to give her a hard time and there were plenty in stock.

“Here you go.” She said to the vendor while handing her a single bit after placing three tomatoes into her bag before walking off. But the vendor cleared her throat to state she owes more.

“That'll be two bits. Not one.” She told her.

“Oh, but last week, it was only one bit.” Fluttershy responded in surprise.

“That was then, this is now.” The vendor asserted while gesturing to the sign prices.

“Oh, okay. I don't wanna argue about it.” Fluttershy conceded before placing another bit onto the table while angering Ono.

Before Ono could fly over there and give her a piece of his mind, Kion placed a calming paw on his chest while Bunga and Pinkie step forward to handle this.

“What do you think you're doing?” Pinkie demanded.

“Yeah, what she said?” Bunga added while standing on the counter.

“Mindin' my own business, maybe you two should try it.” She retorted.

“Well too bad, sister because two bits for tomatoes is outrageous.” Bunga asserted.

“One bit is the right price.” Pinkie added while pulling back one of the bits.

“I say it's two bits.” The vendor asserted back while pulling back the bit before getting into a bit spat complete with slamming hooves on the counter.

“One bit.”

“Two bits!”

“One bit!”

“Two bits!”

“One bit!”

“Two bits!”

The two traded until Bunga pulled reverse psychology on the vendor while pulling the bit away before putting it back.

“Two bits!”

“One bit!”

“Two bits!”

“One bit!”

“I insist it's two bits or nothing!” Bunga insisted while yelling off the top of his lungs.

“One bit and that's my final offer!” The vendor shouted back while pushing the bit back to him and Pinkie.

“Have it your way, one bit it is!” Bunga then smiled before he and Pinkie quickly leave with the bit in tow. By the time the vendor realized the two had tricked her they had already left with Pinkie, Bunga, Rarity, Ono all giggling while Kyoga nodded while approving of the method.

“See? Asserting yourself can be fun!” Pinkie said to Fluttershy.

“Not too mean, yet not too soft.” Beshte added.

“I guess you're right!” Fluttershy responded feeling a little more confident now.

“So, Fluttershy, Ono, do you two feel like giving it a try?” Rarity asked.

“Um... okay.” Fluttershy agreed.

“Let’s.” Ono confidently voiced before going over to the cherry stand for the one and final item on the list.

“I need that cherry.”

“Firm, not too soft, yet not mean.”

The two mentally said to themselves while making their way to the stand.

“Boy, am I glad you have one cherry left. You see, I'm making this special meal for my bunny Angel. He's a very picky eater, and the recipe calls for a cherry on top.” Fluttershy eagerly expressed her gratitude while handing her a single bit. “Here you go.”

“So, you say you need this cherry 'very badly'.” The vendor questioned sensing a golden opportunity to cash in on this.

“Oh, yes, I'm desperate for it!” She replied.

“Then it'll be ten bits!” He then stated with a smug smirk.

“Ten?!”

“What?!”

The two voiced with widened eyes while noticing her friends giving them encouraging nods to remember what they taught them.

“Look sir, I understand your supply and demand.” Ono calmly began. “But don’t you think you’re overcharging her just a little.” He added with an encouraging expression to which Rarity nodded in approval upon seeing him take her lesson to heart.

“Ten bits for the cherry.” The vendor refused to change his stance.

“All right! All right!” Ono accepted while trying to keep his cool. “But personally I think that five bits is a more fitting price. Wouldn’t you agree?” He hinted while trying Pinkie’s method now.

“Five bits?” The vendor questioned.

“Umm...I mean, nine bits!” Fluttershy interjected to which left the others watching dumbfounded by this move.

“Er, now wait a minute.” The vendor returned rather confused with Ono gesturing Fluttershy not to give him more than what he is asking for.

“Okay, twelve bits, but that's my final offer!” Fluttershy insisted while still opening her mouth to which further baffled the rest of the Guard.

Bunga had his jaw slack dropped, Pinkie buried her face into the ground, Applejack, Kion, and Beshte all looked away in embarrassment, Twilight, Fuli, Kyoga, and Rarity all face-palmed themselves with Rainbow doing the same while landed on her back on the ground to emphasize with how disastrous Fluttershy’s attempt is going.

“I think you're confused.” The vendor said in response with Ono trying to regain control of the situation while trying to place a wing on Fluttershy’s mouth to get her to put down the shovel before she could dig herself deeper and get out of the hole while she still has the chance.

“Fluttershy…let me handle this.” Ono tried to insist to her in a whisper if she wants out of the hole before turning back to the vendor with his patience tested now. “Actually on the contrary it is you who is confused, its two bits and that’s our final offer!”

“What?” He questioned. “I thought it was eleven bits.”

“No it's twelve bits, take it or leave it.” Fluttershy opened her mouth again which left Ono

“Okay, I'll take it!” The vendor eagerly accepted but before the exchange could occur Fuli and Pinkie quickly intercepted her money away from the stand while Rarity and Kion quickly drag her away by the tail.

“Seriously?!” Fuli exasperatedly questioned. “You were going to give him twelve bits for a small measly cherry!”

“One cherry is not worth twelve bits!” Pinkie agreed.

“But... I was only doing what you did.” Fluttershy voiced not understanding what she did wrong.

“If today was opposite day you sure would have done well.” Fuli sarcastically commented when Rarity takes a turn in speaking to her.

“It was a valiant effort, but you should refuse to give him your business and just walk away.” She gently yet firmly advised while putting her money back in her back.

“But... I can't let Angel starve!” Fluttershy protested before flying back over to the stand. “He won't eat it unless I make it just right! I need that cherry no matter what it costs!”

“Fluttershy, no…” Kion tried to say in her direction to keep her from further burning a hole in her bag in vain.

“In that case, twenty bits!” The vendor voiced with smug smirk.

“Twenty?!” Fluttershy softly exclaimed in shock before planting her hooves back into the ground. “Oh, but, I don't have that much!”

“Then why're you wasting my time?” The vendor responded to which was the last straw that broke the egret’s back before he quickly flew over to the stand now very peeved.

“Oh for goodness sake!” Ono yelled in the pony’s face. “Just give her the cherry because I am tired of putting up with your pathetic Private Pantsy flanked fruit b…”

Ono is then quickly pulled away by Twilight with her magic along with being muffled mid-sentence to which the others could only look away awkwardly.

“I'll give you two bits for that cherry!” A yellow coated pony came by and offered the vendor.

“Sold!” He immediately accepted. “Eh, tough break, kid. Next time, don't be such a doormat.” He smugly said in the dejected peagsus’s direction as she sadly walked away while Ono mouthed off a muffled “You are so lucky I’m in a bubble pal.” while lifting his wings up with one last thing to make perfectly of what he thinks of him before being pulled away from the scene by the unicorn’s magic.

“Did he just that there pony the feather?” Applejack asked her friends while the vendor shrugs it off.

“Yep.” Fuli answered with a blank expression and nod before Kion and Kyoga could approach the still angered and restrained bird.

“Ono please, calm down!” Kion urged him to get a grip. “He’s not worth it!”

“But…” Ono attempted to protest until Kyoga interrupted.

“Ono, it’s okay, breathe.” She advised to which he reluctantly does.

“Sorry everyone.” He apologized. “But that just wasn’t fair for them to treat her like that.”

“I know.” Twilight acknowledged. “And we’ll deal with them later.”

“But right know we gotta help Fluttershy!” Kion added to which Ono was able to control himself.

“Where did she go?” Bunga asked noticing that she disappeared.

“Probably back to her cottage.” Fuli figured before everyone all set out in that direction where Fluttershy has made it back putting together Angel’s requested salad.

“Ta-da! Here you go, Angel.” She told him but then quickly added. “Sorry there's no cherry on top, but the rest of it is exactly what you wanted.” Hearing this caused Angel to do a quick comparison before scowling at his owner. “Angel?” Next thing she knows she along with the salad are kicked out all together just in time for the other’s to witness it.

“Fluttershy, are you okay?” Kion asked.

“I’m taking it Angel did mind the missing cherry?” Ono correctly guessed.

“Yes.” Fluttershy weakly answered.

“Hold that thought.” Ono responded before flying inside. “Hey, Angel…”

Next thing that happens is the Guard hearing Ono tell the spoiled bunny off and putting it rather mildly. The Guard could only gasp in shock with how far the egret will go to teach some a lesson before seeing the bunny run outside of the cottage in hear before Ono himself emerged.

“Okay, that takes cares of that.” Ono then said feeling satisfied ignoring the fact with how he did it. “What? That bunny had it coming.”

“Yes he did, but you did do it rather colorfully.” Fuli didn’t hold back on the criticism.

“Not to mention lost your temper again.” Kyoga added to which the others nod in agreement.

“Don’t take this the wrong way Ono.” Twilight began. “But both you and Fluttershy both differing ways of being assertive.”

“What do you mean?” They both asked.

“Well by being honest sugarcube…” Applejack added while turning to Fluttershy first. “…you’re letting too many ponies walk all over you.” She then turned to Ono. “And as for you, you got the assertiveness part there right, but you’re doing it a little too much.”

“How so? You were there to see those ponies trying to scam Fluttershy.” Ono pointed out.

“Yes, but there is a fine line between being assertive and overly-assertive.” Kion added. “And if you’re not careful you might end up hurting someone who cares about you.”

“But…” Ono stuttered. “…I’m not like that. I wouldn’t even dream of saying what I said to Angel to you.”

“Of course everyone knows it, Ono.” Beshte gently replied. “We just think you should handle it in a little nicer way is all.”

“Nice? Like Fluttershy?”

“At least not as much as a doormat as her.” Beshte corrected just as gently to which Fluttershy could only sigh knowing of how true it is.

“I really am a doormat.” She sadly said before noticing a particular pamphlet in her mail to which she opened it up and began reading from it. "The incredible Iron Will turns doormats into dynamos. Assertiveness seminar today, hedge maze centre."

“Interesting.” Fuli commented finding this intriguing. “Sounds like something you could use, Fluttershy.”

“I guess…” She replied rather hesitant at first but then thought the others were right and she does need to stand up for herself and can’t rely on her friends to back her up all the time more before deciding… “…actually you’re right. This is something I need.” She stated before vowing. “As Celestia is my witness, I'm never gonna be a pushover again!”

“That’s the spirit.” Fuli commended her with an approving smile.

Later today, both Fluttershy and Ono went over to where the seminar is being held with the others following after them for support. Fluttershy herself didn’t know what to make of the seminar at first while Ono seemed interested with how this kind of assertiveness compares to his.

Fluttershy when first arriving found a goat watching over the entrance with a serious expression which intimated her slightly but still worked the courage to press forward where the Guard makes their way to the front of the crowd.

“Oh! Ah! Uh... excuse me!“ Fluttershy tried to squeeze her way to the front make room for herself while being glared at by many ponies wanting to give her the boot to the back. But Ono glared at them in return to force them to back off.

Once everyone was settled, the presentation began with loud music kicking up with more goats helping put the show together by flashing the lights onto the stage so the man himself can make his introduction.

Iron Will, the strong and muscular blue-furred ox who greets the cheering audience with pumped fist punches to the side. Just as Iron Will flexed and kissed his muscles, fireworks went off behind him. Clearly, everyone here was very excited to see him since he is really drawing up a crowd. Maybe he can help both Fluttershy and Ono.

“Welcome, friends!” He announced while walking across the stage. “My name is Iron Will, and today is the first day of your new life! I wanna hear you stomp if you're tired of being a pushover!” Ponies stomp and cheer while Fluttershy does a rather light and timid version of it.

“Geez, this guy sure knows how to make some noise.” Fuli commented to Applejack.

“Rather loudly if you ask me.” Applejack voiced in agreement.

“Stomp if you're tired of being a doormat!” The ponies stomp and cheer louder. “Stomp if you wanna pay nothing for this seminar!” The ponies immediately stop cheering and stomping while registering confused expressions before laughing. Iron Will hearing and seeing this quickly shut them up with a snort and a glare.

“That's no joke, friends. Iron Will is so confident that you will be one hundred percent satisfied with Iron Will's assertiveness techniques, that if you are not one hundred percent satisfied, you. Pay. Nothing.” He told everyone before turning to a blonde hair brown coated stallion. “But I pity the fool who doubts Iron Will's methods! You don't doubt me, do you?” He questioned the pony while looking straight into his green eyes while being supported by his goat assitants.

“Uh-uh, no sir...” He nervously answered while sweating in response with the others just agreeing with him.

“That, my friends, is your first lesson. "Don't be shy; look 'em in the eye."

The ponies chattered in agreement while most of the Guard nods seeing it as a very fair point.

“Now, to demonstrate that Iron Will's techniques will work for anypony, I'm gonna need a volunteer.” Iron Will then looked around for the perfect pony while everyone raise their hooves wanting to step up. All but one, Fluttershy, who tries to slowly back her way from the front to avoid being picked herself unnoticed to which did not go unnoticed by the white goat looking around the crowd.

He bleated to the black goat who then bleated to Iron Will to cement his decision of who he wants to step up.

“You in the back row!” He called out to the peagsus with everyone making moving side with focused attention on her.

“Who, me?” She questioned.

“Yes, you! Iron Will wants you onstage!” He expected of her to which caused her to emit a scared gulp.

“Uh, well...” She tried to back out of it but the mintouar wasn’t taking no for an answer.

“Now!”

“Okay.” She complied with a whisper.

As much as the Guard would like to back her up, this is something she’s gotta learn if she wants to learn to stand up for herself.

She makes her way onto the stage where she is greeted to one of the goats blocking her path. She tries to go around him but he quickly intercepts her. Clearly this is her first test.

“Whoaa! He's blocking your path. What are you gonna do about it?” Iron Will asked

“Um, politely walk around him?” Fluttershy guessed.

“No.” He answered with crossed arms, unimpressed while the Guard watching shake their heads in agreement with him.

“Gingerly tip-toe around him?”

“No!” He repeated.

“Go back home and try again tomorrow?”

“No!” He repeated before telling him the correct answer. "When somepony tries to block, show them that you rock!"

He then flicked her on the bottom to push her into bumping the goat aside with a head-butt.

“Oh! Sorry.” She apologized to which Iron Will voices another much needed lesson she needs to take.

“Don't be sorry! Be assertive! "Never apologize when you can criticize."” He added before clearing his throat so he can speak to the goat lying on his back. “Why don't you watch where you're going!?” He told him off before turning to Fluttershy. “Now, you try.”

“Uh... next time, get out of the way before... I bump into you, 'cause... I totally won't be sorry when I do!” She made an attempt to assert herself rather weakly and not exactly what everyone else was expecting but Iron Will saw this as an opportunity to cash in on.

“You see, my friends? If my techniques can work for this shy, little pony, then they can work for anypony!” Iron Will told everyone while holding up her hoof to which the crowd cheered as fireworks boomed across the skies.

Initially, Fluttershy had a confused and unsure expression before smiling feeling more confident with standing up for herself more than before. Her friends watching are proud of her for her good start at the subject while preparing to see how effective Iron Will’s tactics will work out for her in the long run. Whether they were too aggressive or not is something they will find out the next time ponies see her.

Shortly after the session ended, both Fluttershy and Ono both made their way back to the cottage where they reflect on what had transpired there.

“So, what do you think, Fluttershy?” Ono asked her. “You feel a little more confident with standing up for yourself?”

“I’m okay.” She replied while looking at her reflection in the mirror. “Actually, I feel good. I feel ready to "attack the day", as Iron Will says.”

Fluttershy trots outside with Ono following after her. There they see a gardener watering the flowers in her garden. What he doesn’t realize is that he is over-watering them.

“Excuse me, Mr. Greenhooves, but I-I think you might be over-watering my petunias...” She softly told him to which the gardener laughed not seemingly paying attention to her. “…again.”

“Let the professional handle it.” He brushed her aside to which Fluttershy started to walk away in defeat again before being tapped on the shoulder by Ono who motioned to her to try it again and remember what she was told earlier.

"Treat me like a pushover, and you'll get the once over." She said to herself before moving to place a hoof on the hose to get stop the water from coming out of the hose.

“Hm? Hmm...” He wondered why water wasn’t coming out of it until she removed her hoof which to let to the held back water spewing all over his face. “Well, perhaps that is enough water.” He relented after coughing and sputtering the water that got in his mouth.

“Thank you.” She responded feeling satisfied before walking off and giving herself an excited giggle of her accomplishment. “I can't believe it worked!” She happily expressed.

“Congratulations.” Ono complimented. “A little excessive but effective.”

“I know right.” Fluttershy squeed in excitement before making their way into town where they come across two ponies hauling carts of garbage across the footbridge in front of them.

“Showpony business is tough.”

“Go ahead, try one of your jokes out on me. I laugh at everything.”

The two ponies addressed each other while stopping in the middle of bridge and blocking off both Fluttershy and Ono from getting across.

“Okay, okay, okay. A donkey and a mule are stuck on a desert island...” The pink addressed to her friend when Fluttershy cleared her throat to get their attention.

“Excuse me? Would you mind moving your carts so I can pass?”

“Yeah yeah, in a minute, I just wanna finish up this story.” She dismissed her before continuing her conversation with her friend to which Fluttershy did not like. “And so the donkey says to the mule–“

“A-hemmmm, can you move? You're blocking my path.” She repeated a little angrier that she refused to oblige to her request.

“Yeah yeah, in a minute!” She repeated. “So the donkey says to the mule...”

“When somepony tries to block, show them that you rock!" Fluttershy said to herself before acting on Iron Will’s advice and kicked the carts upwards and hurled trash onto them to which surprised Ono.

“Ugh! Easy does it, lady. We're moving, okay?” She irritably replied before trotting off with her friend.

“Good!” She returned rather satisfied while Ono is left speechless.

“Was this possibly what Kion was trying to warn me about?” Ono thought to himself feeling that Iron Will’s methods are working a little too well.

Next up is a trip to Sugarcube Corner where there is a long line of ponies seeking to get treats made courtesy of the Cakes with Pinkie Pie and Bunga running the stand.

“Who's next please?”

“And what can I get for you today?”

The two addressed the next pony in line just as Fluttershy and Ono walk inside and get in line. But as they were doing so a blue mare with a silver mane quickly cut in front of them after tapping Fluttershy on the shoulder while bumping her aside with a smirk.

“What do you think you're doing?! Didn't you see me?” Fluttershy aggressively demanded.

“Uh, I guess maybe.” The mare merely replied before turning ahead.

“'Maybe'? "Maybes are for babies!"” Fluttershy retorted before spinning the mare around and forcing her to look at her. “Now go to the back of the line where you belong!” She demanded with gritted teeth to which she returned a sheepish and nervous nod before obeying to her command along with everyone else. Clearly they were intimidated with New Fluttershy’s attitude.

“Heyyy, look at you!” Pinkie complimented just as the rest of the Guard approach her having witnessed this.

“Looks like somepony’s got a new look.” Applejack remarked.

“I like it.” Kyoga complimented.

“Oh, your attitude is so feisty, it's fabulous.” Rarity complimented.

“I gotta say, I’m mildly impressed.” Fuli smiled.

“It’s so Un-Bunga-veilable.” Bunga added.

“It’s more than that!” Rainbow inputted while hugging her newly assertive friend. “It’s 120% awesome!”

“Congratulations, Fluttershy.” Twilight commended. “We’re very proud of you.”

“Looks like that monster's workshop really paid off!” Pinkie then said.

“Iron Will's not a monster.” Fluttershy corrected. “He's a minotaur, and a true inspiration. His techniques really work.”

“Well, they've certainly made a difference in the way you carry yourself.” Kion said. “It’s like you truly are a whole new Fluttershy.”

“Yes I am. And new Fluttershy feels pretty stoked about new Fluttershy.” Fluttershy voiced with pride feeling sure of herself while Ono was pretty much silent throughout all of this unsure of what to say about it.

“Well, old Pinkie Pie feels really proud of new Fluttershy.” Pinkie then said while pulling up a punch bowl onto the table. “Proud as pink punch. Want some?”

“I do!” Bunga said before rolling onto the ground in laughter with Pinkie Pie.

But Fluttershy instead of finding it funny instead scowled at the two having taken offense to that comment.

"You laugh at me, I wrath at you!" She growled before knocking the punch bowl off the counter and spilled punch all over them leaving the Guard all stunned by what had just happened.

“Huh?” Bunga spoke rather shocked that she did that with the others left with agape mouths.

“Fluttershy? Why did you do that?” Beshte asked.

“That wasn’t very nice!” Fuli scolded.

“Bye, girls and boys.” She simply said before leaving while ignoring her friends and the many ponies quickly scattering upon seeing her emerge from the bakery.

“What a day. Taxi!” Fluttershy said to herself very pleased before noticing an open taxi ahead. But before she could get on another pony, one with a dark grey coat and a white mane quickly leaped on her ride.

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed realizing what’s in store for him.

“Oh no.” Fuli also spoke coming to the same conclusion.

“Oh no you don't. "Cut in line, I'll take that's mine!"” Fluttershy angrily spoke before viciously tackling and beating down the pony on her cab before kicking him off onto the steps of Sugarcube Corner in front of her horrified friends.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed upon seeing this brutal sight.

“Nopony pushes new Fluttershy around! Nopony!” Fluttershy yelled off the top of her lungs to everyone before being escorted by her terrified driver.

“What the hay just happened…” Rainbow spoke to her friends in shock with what they had just saw.

“She just dumped punch on Pinkie and Bunga and then beat up a pony for hopping on her ride.” Ono answered while seeing this is what his friends were trying to warn him against with his assertiveness. “And suddenly I now have a really bad feeling about all of this.”

“Me too.” Twilight agreed. “Because that was way too far there.”

“Definitely over the line.” Kion supported.

“No question about that.” Kyoga didn’t even deny it.

“Old Pinkie Pie is not so sure new Fluttershy is such a good idea after all.” Pinkie worringly voiced her opinion.

“Old Rarity agrees.” Rarity nodded.

“Glad I’m not the only one who is now seeing this.” Ono said in terrified relief. “Because it looks like Iron Will’s methods are working a little too well.”

The next day, Fluttershy gave herself another pep talk in her mirror ready for another day of assertiveness or rather over-assertiveness with what she is doing right now.

“You got this, new Fluttershy! This day is yours! And nopony's gonna take it away from you! Am I right?!” She then said the last part in some of her critter friends face very loudly with a mean grin to which caused them to faint in frightened shock. “Right!” She then declared before seeing that her recently delivered mail is not to her liking. “What?! He's delivered the wrong mail, again!” She wasted no time in confronting the mailpony and getting in his face over it.

“And new Fluttershy does not want the wrong mail delivered to her cottage.” She harshly reprimanded him for this innocent mistake.

“Ohh, did I mix 'em up again? Sorry about that.” He apologized to which still didn’t sit well with her.

"You apologize, I penalize!" She then shoved him into a mailbox before shoving a stamp on his rear end along with snatching her mail before the oncoming mail cart came by and collected him.

Feeling satisfied with herself she walked off ahead before being approached by a nearby tourist pony.

“Excuse me, do you know how to get to the Ponyville tower?” He kindly asked of her.

“Sure, you just…” She started before gasping upon seeing by doing so she ended up dropping her mail into the puddle in front of them.

“Oh, that's a shame.” He sympathetically remarked only to be met with the girl’s growling wrath.

"You make me lose, I blow my fuse!" She roared at him before flinging him into the nearby hay pile by the camera around his neck which flung into the nearby clock tower which produced a ding from the big bell.

Her friends having arrived on the scene in time to witness this were quick to confront her.

“Fluttershy! What are you doing?!” Kion demanded and scolded. “That's no way to talk to someone like that!”

“Didn't you see what he did to new Fluttershy?” Fluttershy returned angrily and defensively. “And he thought new Fluttershy was a pushover!”

“No, sweetie, he didn't. We saw the whole thing.” Rarity firmly returned.

“And we are seeing that you are now taking your assertiveness training too far.” Twilight added.

“Way too far!” Fuli added with extra emphasis.

“What?!” Fluttershy took offense to this. “You just want new Fluttershy to be a doormat like old Fluttershy! But old Fluttershy is gone!” She shouted the last word loudly.

“New Fluttershy?”

“Old Fluttershy!?”

Both Pinkie and Bunga asked in confusion.

“What happened to the friendly Fluttershy we all know and love?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, what happened to her?” Beshte also implored.

“We want that Fluttershy back.” Rarity tried to reach out to her.

“No, you want wimp Fluttershy.” Fluttershy refused before circling around the Guard with glaring eyes. “You want pushover Fluttershy. You want do-anything-to-her-and-she-won't-complain Fluttershy!”

“Nyaaaaah!” Pinkie complained with her head along with Bunga’s spinning around before placing her hoofs onto her head to stop the internal spinning. “Too many Fluttershys to keep track of!“

“Make it stop!” Bunga added before being met face-to-face with the peagsus.

“What’s the matter little mongoose?” She asked in a taunting manner. “Afraid of new Fluttershy?” She said before slapping him away with her tail before turning to Pinkie. “Things getting too complicated for your simple little brain, Pinkie Pie?” She then poked and knocked her back away before being caught by both Beshte and Rarity.

“Come on, Fluttershy. Snap out of it.” Beshte pleaded. "You are better than this."

“Yes, stop right there young lady!” Rarity added in a chastising manner. “Let's not let things descend into petty insults!”

“Why not? I thought 'petty' was what you're all about, Rarity. With your 'petty' concerns about fashion.” Fluttershy fired back with a mean smirk to which she gasped in shock hearing that insult before turning around to cry with Beshte’s comfort.

“Please Fluttershy, stop…” Beshte again pleaded.

“Or what?” Fluttershy questioned rather amused. “You’ll charge at me? Ha!” She scoffed. “You couldn’t charge someone who can carry his own extra weight! Oh sorry, I guess you already do.” She added while gesturing to the hippo’s body to which Bunga gasped upon hearing that insult.

That remark just left Beshte destroyed inside with Bunga and Pinkie both get face to face with Fluttershy in Beshte and the silently weeping Rarity’s defense.

“Hey, leave them alone!”

“Fashion is her passion!”

The two snapped with the later shaking her hips around while standing on her hind legs.

“Oh, and what are you two passionate about?” Fluttershy retorted back at them. “Birthday cake? Party hats? Pleasing your pathetic excuse uncles? Engaging in stupid stunts?” The two were left crushed themselves by those insults.

“Fluttershy? That’s not what we’re saying.” Kion asserted in their defense. “We’re just saying you that you are being overly-assertive.”

“Really?” Fluttershy dismissed his pleas. “This coming from the Lion Guard’s Fiercest who’s afraid he’ll turn into the lion who destroyed his own Guard?” She returned while getting into his face. “What’s the matter Kion? Can’t take the heat when push comes to shove? Pathetic coming from the little lion who’s daddy left mommy when his uncle Scar saw he wasn’t King Mufusa who is now weeping and slobbering all over my mane!” She further insulted to which left the lion in tears by that hard-hitting insult with Twilight quick to comfort him.

“Fluttershy stop!” Twilight pleaded. “This isn’t you!”

“Oh really?” Fluttershy returned unimpressed. “Says the pony who’s afraid of disappointing the princess, afraid of returning to magic kindergarten? Well’s new flash for you Miss Perfect cause deep down you are a just friendless and worthless loner who is only denying the very truth before her very own eyes and everyone knows it.”

“But I…” Twilight stammered with tears streaming from her eyes.

“I can't believe that the most frivolous folks in Ponyville and the Pride Lands are trying to tell new Fluttershy how to live her life when they are throwing their own lives away on pointless pursuits that nopony and nobody else gives a flying feather about!” Fluttershy further ranted to which left her utterly crushed and tearing up friends very hurt.

“Why are you doing this to us?” Twilight inquired in tears.

“We’re your friends!” Kion added just as devastated.

“Looks like nasty Fluttershy is here to stay!” Pinkie cried in a similar manner.

“I cannot believe what that monster Iron Will has done to you!” Rarity also cried before she and Pinkie ran off in tears together with Twilight teleporting herself Kion, Beshte, and Bunga away from the scene leaving Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Ono, Kyoga, and Fuli the only ones left standing.

“Iron Will's not a monster, he's a minotaur!” Fluttershy again roared off the top of her lungs.

“Fluttershy, how could you say that to them?” Fuli could only say in horrified shock with how low she has sunken.

“Yeah! What’s gotten into you!” Kyoga demanded an explanation from her. “You just insulted and drove off your own friends to tears!”

“Like it matters to you two.” Fluttershy again brushed them aside. “Because they couldn’t take the heat from New Fluttershy.”

“No, Fluttershy!” Rainbow retorted. “They were trying to tell you that you were going too far with being assertive and return their efforts with tear-jerking insults to their faces!” She then got in her face. “The only one acting in the wrong here is you!” She added with a hoof to her chest.

“Well I’m doing the best I can in making sure nobody but nobody pushes Fluttershy around again!” Fluttershy fired back while pushing the speedy peagsus away from her face. “Not that you of all ponies would understand, Rainbow Crash!”

“Oh so that’s how it’s going to be huh?!” Rainbow returned with fiery fury in her heart before firing back. “Well if you were half the pony old Fluttershy was you’d never…”

She is then suddenly slapped away and into the ground knocked unconscious by the enraged girl. “I’M TEN TIMES THE PONY OLD FLUTTERSHY WAS!” She shouted before looking down at her cowering friends with Ono the most frightened of the bunch.

But before anything else could happen she then suddenly saw what she had just done after looking at herself in the reflection. Her friends were right, and she didn’t realize until it was too late and it is a sight that horrified herself seeing what she has become.

“I'm the monster.” She sadly said to herself before flying off in shame.

“Fluttershy, wait!” Applejack called after her direction to no avail. She had already flew away back to her cottage and by the time all her friends had emotionally recovered she already had barricaded herself inside for the rest of the day. Boards and nails bolted on every door and window shut so she can never demolish anyone ever again.

Sure what she said and did hurt but that’s nothing worth ending their friendship with her. And they are now here to help her snap out of it.

“Fluttershy, are you in there?” Rarity called out to her after knocking on her front door.

“It's Pinkie Pie and Rarity!”

“Along with Bunga, Kion, Twilight, Ono, Applejack, Fuli, Kyoga, Beshte, and Rainbow Dash.”

Both Pinkie and Bunga added.

“Go away! Go away before nasty Fluttershy strikes again!” Fluttershy shouted back at them in distraught shame.

“Fluttershy, it’s okay.” Twilight tried to speak with her in an attempt to assure her they hold nothing against her for the other day.

“Oh, sweetie, we all said things that we regret.” Rarity added.

“We did?”

“Since when?”

Both Pinkie and Bunga cluelessly asked before being slapped in the back of the head by both Applejack and Fuli.

“What?” Bunga questioned while rubbing the back of his head.

“Do you not know when to keep that big mouth of yours shut.” Fuli irritably questioned before turning back to their ashamed friend.

“No, Pinkie and Bunga are right.” The tied up peagsus in the shadows of her dark home called back with a reluctant Angel obliging to her request to tie her up. “I'm the only one to blame. But don't worry, I'm never coming out of my house again. Everypony will be a lot safer with me and my mean mouth locked away.”

“Now sugarcube, that’s no way to talk.” Applejack tried to insist otherwise. “It’s not your fault.”

“Exactly.” Rarity agreed. “Nor does anyone else. You just received some bad advice from that Iron Will character.”

“Yeah! He's the one that made you act super-duper nasty.” Pinkie again thoughtlessly added.

“He’s the one who really deserves the hate!” Bunga also said which earned them more slaps and glares from both Applejack and Fuli.

“What they really mean is, there are other ways to assert yourself besides yelling at everypony and everyone.” Kion clarified there’s another way to this all.

“Exactly, you can assert yourself and still be the kind and compassionate friend we all know and love.” Twilight added onto Kion’s explanation.

“Without ripping into everyone that so much as crosses you slightly.” Ono further added. “I know that now because I too almost went there.”

“Come on, sugarcube.” Applejack tried to urge her to come out. “Come on out of there and we can help you be kindly assertive just like us.”

“Please Fluttershy, for us?” Beshte asked of her. “It’s the least we could do for you.”

“I-I'm not sure I can.” Fluttershy sadly returned while looking at herself in the mirror. “I'm too far gone. Whenever I try to assert myself, I become a monster just like Scar.”

“That’s not true.” Kion firmly voiced against that claim. “You are much better than that and you're not a monster like Scar.”

“No, but he is.” Pinkie interjected while pointing to the black-tie wearing minotaur riding on the black-furred goat with a red tie with the white-furred goat with a blue tie accompanying them.

“Iron Will's my name, training ponies is my game.” He greeted everyone with Kion, Fuli, Twilight, Kyoga, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie approached him with Beshte, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Bunga, and Ono still standing by the door.

“Okay…” Kyoga just said in response to the fact that he wasn’t talking to anyone in particular.

“…Nice to meet you too.” Fuli added in the same tone.

“What a darling little catchphrase.” Rarity also added just for the sake of complimenting him.

“Your friend Fluttershy loved Iron Will's catchphrases. Word on the street is that she doesn't take no guff from nopony!” He explained while wrapping his arms around the six Guard members with one around Rarity, Kion, and Pinkie Pie and the other around Twilight, Fuli, and Kyoga who all weren’t very comfortable with his friendly gesture. “So, Iron Will is here to collect Iron Will's fee.” He added before making his way to the girl’s cottage after letting them all go.

“Fluttershy is in no shape to deal with that creep!” Pinkie told her friends with Rarity being the first to act to try to stop him.

“I'm sure a big, brave, powerful, and rich monster– I mean, minotaur like you doesn't need that money right away. You can afford to come back later.” She tried to work her charm on him.

“Are you kidding?” Iron Will asked as if she was crazy. “Fluttershy is overdue as it is. Iron Will collects now.”

He then picked Rarity up by the horn and that dropped her over the hill before turning his attention back to the barricaded door when Kion and Fuli were quick to intercept him.

“Hey! What’s the idea, bub?”

“That’s no way to treat our friend like that!”

Fuli and Kion both said to him which is met with the minotaur just casually swatting them aside.

“Do something!” Rarity implored of her friends with Pinkie and Bunga quick to take a turn in attempting to intercept him.

“We're not even sure Fluttershy is home right now.” Bunga said to him.

“Yeah, For all we know she might be off frolicking with some woodland creatures.” Pinkie added. “Why don't you give us some time to track her down for ya?”

“Iron Will does have some grocery shopping to do.” Iron Will did come to agree while holding up a small shopping list and basket before walking off. “Iron Will will come back this afternoon.”

“But that's only half a day.” Bunga pointed out.

“Yeah,We need one full day at least.” Pinkie agreed.

“Iron Will will delay for half a day and no longer!” Iron Will asserted his decision.

“A full day!”

“Half day!”

“Full day!”

“Half day!”

The two argued when Bunga pulled the same trick the other day on him.

“Half day!”

“Full day!”

“We need half a day and no more!” Bunga asserted in the minotaur’s face with Pinkie joining him.

“Yeah!”

“Well, you'll get a full day and no less!” Iron Will asserted back while grabbing the honey badger by the fur and the pony by the tail.

“Okay, have it your way.”

“Okie-dokie. See you tomorrow.”

The two happily returned and satisfied while turning to walk away in mid-air.

“Wait, what?” Iron Will then said in confusion starting to catch on to their trick while lowering them to the ground when they all hear Fluttershy sneezing from inside thus blowing her cover accidentally.

“Huh, sounds like the search won't be necessary. Iron Will collects now.” Iron Will then proceeded to tear the boards off of the door but not before being met face to face with Pinkie and Bunga along with Twilight and Kyoga.

“Hey what about our agreement?”

“Yeah, you gotta come back tomorrow?”

The two asked before being flung into mud meaning it is Kyoga and Twilight’s turn to try to stop him.

“If I were you, I’d leave while you still can.” Kyoga warned in a low tone.

“A deal’s a deal and right now you are breaking it.” Twilight reminded him.

“And if I were you, it is the other way around for Iron Will takes guff from nobody.” Iron Will refused to back off while simply picking them and tossing them aside into the nearby bushes.

Both Bunga and Pinkie noe covered in mud turned and saw the two goats chewing on their tails to which the former used his stinky scent to force them to back off.

“The one time I don’t like being in mud.” Bunga commented to himself while brushing the mud off of his fur.

“All right then game on!” Rainbow accepted his challenge with raised hooves ready for a fight along with the hard-charging Applejack and Beshte only for both ponies to be quickly tossed aside and into the mud pit with everyone having to scramble out of the way when Beshte joined them.

“Incoming!” The hippo screamed before plopping into the mud which coated everyone in mud.

“Your payment is overdue, Fluttershy!” Iron Will told the peagsus while tearing the bolted wood off while preparing to break the door down…but instead politely knocked on the door.

“Seriously?” Fuli questioned that approach.

“All of that when he could have just broken the door down?” Kyoga voiced in the same exasperated tone as the cheetah when the peagsus emerges from her house with Ono still flying by her side while everyone else watches on with what is about to happen.

“You were nothing but a doormat, and Iron Will turned you into a lean, mean, assertive machine!” The minotaur addressed the peagsus while moving and flexing his muscles with Ono still perched on Fluttershy’s back. “Now, pay Iron Will what you owe Iron Will!”

“Um, no.” Fluttershy calmly responded with everyone staring in disbelief with her answer.

Pinkie and Bunga both fell to their side in shock while the goat assistants released surprised bleats.

“Oh, no.” Fuli cringed with worry that the girl is now dead for saying that.

“What did you say?” Iron Will demanded while Ono dropped his jaw in disbelief

“No.” She repeated.

“Ohhh, I'd hate to be you right now…” He roared while angrily bending the fence behind him like he is in a wrestling cage “…because Iron Will is gonna rain down a world of hurt unless Iron Will gets his money pronto!” He shouted the last bit to the undeterred peagsus while Ono passed out.

“As I recall, during your workshop you promised one hundred percent satisfaction guaranteed, or you pay nothing.” Fluttershy pointed out while using one of her wings to gently get Ono to wake up. “Well, I'm not satisfied.”

“What do you mean you're not satisfied?!” Iron Will could believe what he is hearing. “Everypony has always been satisfied!”

“Well, I guess I'm the first then. But since I'm not satisfied, I refuse to pay. It's as simple as that.” She simply returned while her friends continue to watch in shock even Kyoga was stunned by the sheer bravery she was showing.

Pinkie, Bunga, and Ono had their jaws dropped in response with Rarity and Kyoga both closing them with their hooves and paws with Fluttershy doing the same with Ono.

Seeing that Fluttershy is not taking her stance, Iron Will takes a moment to speak with his goat assistants for a private huddle and discussion before turning back to her.

“Ohh, are you... sure you're not just a little bit satisfied?” Iron Will tried to negotiate some payment out of it while nervously scratching the back of his neck and readjusting his tie. “B-because maybe... we could cut a deal. I-I mean we're both reasonable creatures, aren't we?”

“I'm sorry, but no means no.” Fluttershy firmly asserted.

“No means no, huh?” He just said still dumbfounded before being carried off by his goat assistants in defeat. “Nopony's ever said that to me before. Huh... I gotta remember that one. That's a good catchphrase for my next workshop.”

Once Iron Will was gone she was immediately greeted by her friends.

“Poa! You did it!” Beshte complimented.

“You totally stood up to that monster!” Pinkie also commended.

“I admittedly couldn’t have done it better myself.” Ono admitted seeing the true line of what kind of assertiveness he should be striving for.

“It was Un-Bunga-veilable!” Bunga added in excitement.

“In fact, you didn't change at all!” Rarity voiced with how impressed she is. “You were the same old Fluttershy that we've always loved!”

“And the one we missed.” Kion added with a proud smile.

“Don't worry, old Fluttershy's back for good.” Fluttershy assured before speaking with apologies on her mind in shame. “I'm sorry I took the whole assertiveness thing too far.”

“Don’t worry about, sugarcube.” Applejack accepted her apology. “Things like this can happen to anyone and anypony.”

“But what’s important is that we learn from our mistakes and move on from the past.” Twilight added warmly.

“Rainbow Dash…” Fluttershy said in her direction still mortified for striking her very harshly. “…I hope you can forgive me for what happened the other day.”

“Don’t sweat it.” Rainbow shrugged it off with a playful nudge. "Of course I forgive you."

“So does that mean we’re friends?” Fluttershy then asked everyone.

“Friends.” Everyone all accepted her apology with a group hug.

“I don’t know…?” Kyoga the only one not in the huddle voiced unsure whether to accept it or not thus worrying Fluttershy until she returned a hug while wrapping her arm around her neck and scratching her mane in a friendly big sister manner. “…Of course we’re friends. After all you still have to teach me your new method of assertiveness.”

Everyone all laughed at the humor the lioness showed while everyone once again shared a warm, friendly, and inviting hug of forgiveness for everything that had happened these last few days.

Shortly afterwards everything was back to the Guard’s liking with all of the boards and nails removed from her windows and doors. Furthermore, the cottage is returned to its former glory with warm and inviting sunshine spread across and inside for everyone to enjoy.

During the next feeding time, Fluttershy and Ono took the time to write up a letter for the princess with their friends watching to see the newly improved duo finding the middle ground in assertiveness while they oversee the many critters eating treats from their bowls.

When Angel refuses to eat his normal salad, Fluttershy goes over and glares at the bunny trying to throw a tantrum over it. Once he sees that Fluttershy is not changing her stance again especially since she is using “The Stare.” on him he backs off and bites into a cucumber from his salad to which he looked aside expecting to get sick from it. But to his surprise, he ended up liking and devouring it with both Fluttershy and Ono feeling pleased by the sight. The latter more so since he feels he totally deserved it for what he put everyone through with his selfish and childish desires.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes it can be hard for a shy pony like me or a sensitive egret like Ono to stand up for ourselves, and when I first tried it, I didn't like the pony I became. And when Ono tried it, he ended up nearly losing his temper. But we've learned that standing up for yourself isn't the same as changing who you are. Now we know how to put our hooves and wings down without being unpleasant or mean.”

Once the letter was written up and ready to go, Fluttershy handed it over to Twilight so she can have Spike send it on over to Canterlot but not before sharing another hug with her unicorn friend before heading out of the cottage back to the library…

All while being secretly watched by Scar from the clawed palm of his magic along with the memories of New Fluttershy’s insults towards her friends from the comforts of the shadows from the Everfree Forest.

From the looks of the sinister smile on his face, he finds this verbal beat down very useful research while he looks on the unicorn he has a very special eye towards for when he takes over Equestria and the Pride Lands.

Author's Note

For starters before I begin, I too am one of those readers who fell the whole Mane Six should have been included in this episode so that's what I did here. Also and next up, this took quite some time just to manage the entire Guard into this episode with equal roles while still making the main focus on Fluttershy and Ono here.

For Ono, I decided to have him serve as someone who understand how to be assertive yet doesn't know of how to do it without losing his temper like he did at the marketplace. So it took Fluttershy taking bad advice from Iron Will for him to see that. For him admittedly, he's not afraid to get up in someone's face when the situation calls for it. But there is a fine line between telling someone off and unnecessarily assaulting someone if said offense is minor. And that's where Ono's assertiveness flaw comes in contrast to Fluttershy.

Even though most of the Guard was driven to tears upon "crossing" overly-assertive Fluttershy they still weren't about to let that end their friendship with her and were quick to assure her that she is not a monster. She just took in some bad advice that was rather too excessively assertive. And in the end, Fluttershy was able to learn how to do it without being mean and nasty while Ono learns of how control his temper when being assertive.

Next up is "It's About Time." where Twilight tries to prevent a terrible future from happening.

Episode 30: It's About Time

Episode 30:

It’s About Time

Spike is leading his crush Rarity to marvelous and lovely sight in the mountains. A house made entirely out of ice cream with more ice creams scoops surrounding the house in front of them. The thing that Spike wanted her to see with a wonderful gaze in the fashionista’s eyes.

“I made it for you, Rarity. Why, yes, it is an ice cream house. Chocolate fudge shingles... rocky road garage...” Spike trailed off before suddenly being awaken from his dream by the sound of Twilight’s hoof steps before walking down the steps to find out what’s going on.

“Huh? Twilight?” Spike asked while seeing the lavender unicorn currently busy pacing back and forth.

“Oh. Hi, Spike.” She greeted while still pacing.

“It's the middle of the night! Why are you pacing like this?” Spike asked while pointing out to the moon still lifted high in the sky.

“Frankly, I don't know how you can sleep at a time like this!” Twilight responded while still not easing off her pacing.

“Three A.M.?” Spike pointed out while holding up the clock showing the current time. “What's wrong?”

“Here.” Twilight presented him the calendar. “Now do you see what's wrong?”

“We forgot to celebrate Arbor Day?” Spike asked not finding anything wrong.

“No, the problem is I just finished planning my schedule for the month, but I forgot to leave time to plan for next month!” Twilight answered. “Don't you see? There's no time in my schedule to put together another schedule! I could move my meeting with the Ponyville Hay Board to the following Tuesday, but then I have to reschedule my lunch with Pinkie Pie, and you know what a nightmare she is with scheduling. This is an absolute disaster. My whole year could be thrown off!”

“And I woke up from an ice cream dream for this...?” Spike asked while rubbing his before going to bed before letting Twilight figure things out herself.

And it was probably for the best that he did because Twilight ended up staying up all night trying sitting at her desk to figure out her schedule next month and she was looking very tired from all of that sorting out.

“Oh, my gosh, I think I did it! If I can find a way to read "The Art of Invisibility Spells" and "Thornhoof's Brief History of Canterlot" at the same time, that could leave me a half-hour scheduling window!” She then said before noticing that a mysterious gust of wind was blowing her papers around.

“Huh?” She wondered while she was greeted by a bright flash of pink light appearing in front the fireplace. “What's going on?

She shielded her eyes to avoid the glaring hot blinding white electricity crackling until it cleared up to reveal a figure appearing before her. It is none other than another Twilight Sparkle with a very different appearance. She was currently wearing a black spy suit that had scratches and cuts in them, her mane was black and combed in a slicked back manner but still had it's pink streaks in it, and had a scar over her left eye that was in the shape of a crescent moon. Clearly, she has been through much considering the scratches and marks she’s obtained along the way.

“What in Equestria?” Twilight asked in shock upon seeing this alternate version of herself appear before her.

“Twilight, you've got to listen to me!” The other Twilight warned her.

“Who are you? I mean, you're me, but I'm me too. How can there be two me's?” Twilight couldn’t help but question her sudden appearance. “It's not scientifically possible. You are not scientifically possible!” She added while placing a hoof on her chest.

“Twilight, please!” The other Twilight urged her to listen while swatting her hoof away. “I have a very important message for you from the future!”

“You're from the future?!” Twilight asked in astonishment.

“That's right, now listen–“ She answered before being interrupted.

“What happened to you?” Twilight inquired while circling around her. “The future must be awful.”

“Please! I don't have much time!” The other Twilight grew impatient with her constant questioning.

“Is there some sort of epic pony war in the distant future or something?”

“Actually, I'm from next Tuesday morning…” She corrected. ”…but that's not important right now!”

“I can't believe time travel is really possible! How did you, I mean, I figure it out?”

“The time spells are in the Canterlot archives. But that's not–“ Future Twilight answered and that was all she could get in before being cut off again.

“Really? Where? I've never seen them.”

“They're in the Star Swirl the Bearded wing. Now, you have to listen to–“ Future Twilight answered before being cut off yet again.

“Is time travel fun, or does it hurt? I have so many questions–“

Twilight suddenly for once is cut off when her future self placed a hoof on her mouth so she can say what she needs to tell her.

“I have something extremely important to tell you about the future, and I only have a few seconds, so you've got to listen! Whatever you do, don't–“

And that was all she could say before being whisked away by the same pink blinding flash of light.

“Future Twilight?” She wondered before starting to worry already. “Oh no! What was she trying to warn me about? Her clothes, her mane, that scar...” She then gasped. “Oh, what a mess she is! ...I mean, I am... or I will be...She must want me to prevent whatever horrible thing happens in the future!”

Currently in Ponyville it was so far peaceful with no signs of trouble nearby.

“C'mon, Fluttershy! Ono! The party can't start until the party supplies get there!” Pinkie told her friend while floating from the ground slightly with the help of some balloons she is currently carrying.

“Happy to... help... but... can I carry... the balloons next time?” She pleaded while struggling to carry her shopping bags while crawling behind before gathering the strength to stand up.

“Of course, Fluttershy.” She cheerfully responded. “Just remember to say that next time around and don’t feel obliged to have to do all of the heavy-lifting.”

“Of course.” Fluttershy said while remembering her assertiveness lesson while glancing at the egret who has managed to find it little to no trouble in lifting a couple of bags although with just enough strength.

Suddenly, Twilight crashed into Fluttershy accidentally causing her to drop the party supplies.

“Oh!” She softly exclaimed.

“Oops, I’m sorry.” Twilight apologized while briefly cleaning up the mess she made before running over to the nearby footbridge and jumped on the pillar at the end of the bridge so she can stand high.

“Listen, everypony! I've got something really important to say!” She addressed everyone who all laughed at her due to her wearing a pair of gag glasses. “This is no laughing matter!” She asserted while throwing away the gag glasses. “We have a crisis on our hooves!” Everyone gasped upon hearing this just as Applejack, Beshte, Kion, Kyoga, Rarity, and Bunga arrived on the scene. “I've just been visited by myself from the future!” Everyone but the members of the Guard laughed again. “This isn't a joke!” She asserted while jumping off the pillar she was standing on. “My future self tried to warn me about a horrible disaster that's going to occur sometime before next Tuesday morning!”

“What kind of disaster?” Applejack asked looked a bit worried herself along with Rarity.

“I don't know! I got sucked back into the future before I could explain!” She answered.

“Run for your liiiiiiiife!” Bunga screamed while making a mad dash to the portal to the Pride Lands while Pinkie ran (or tried to) in the opposite direction but her floating just above the ground due to the balloons she was carrying.

“What should we do, Twilight?”

“How do we stop the disaster if we don't know what it is?”

Both Beshte and Rarity asked with the latter joining by Twilight’s side.

“We'll just have to work together to make sure we're safe.” Twilight answered just when both Rainbow and Fuli arrive on the scene. “Rainbow Dash, Fuli, you two lead the other Pegasi spread out over Equestria, and look for any kind of problem that could lead to a disaster, and I mean anything.”

“You got it!”

“Huwezi!”

Both speedsters quickly set out to do so.

“Everypony else–“ Twilight then turned to the others before being interrupted mid-sentence by the screaming Pinkie Pie floating around on her balloons.

“Anypony else wanna panic with me?” She turned to the crowd standing still. “No?” She then resumes her screaming until Kyoga outpaced Pinkie while walking over to her and used her claws to pop the balloons with a bored and blank expression while doing it.

“Everypony else, time to disaster-proof Equestria!” Twilight then said to everyone ready to get to work in ensuring that whatever catastrophe set to happen Tuesday will be averted.

Twilight oversaw the progress, starting with Applejack, Rarity, Ono, and Kion all filling the cracks in the big Ponyville dam with cement before overseeing Mrs. Cake and Bunga completely filling up the water tower. Next was Big Macintosh lifting Pinkie Pie and Bunga down so they can tighten every single screw on the footbridge which went through well even though the large red stallion accidentally dropped the two into the water.

Followed by that was making sure the Cutie Mark Crusaders and young Lion Guard fan club got every piece of litter off of the ground before checking up on Spike making sure she got the cracks in their house covered. Following that was slightly seeing to it that Rarity trims a small part of her curly mane to make sure it was nice and even all the way through.

“Done, and done, and done.” Twilight said to herself while going over everything on her checklist. “Applejack, Kion, what about the Everfree Forest?” She asked them while Rarity removes the leaves from their manes.”

“The perimeter's clear.” Applejack reported.

“Not a single creature threatening anybody and anypony nearby.” Kion added.

“Great.” Twilight felt pleased while turning to Rainbow and Fuli

“And my team gave the all clear from Fillydelphia to Las Pegasus.” Rainbow reported.

“And I scouted all of Ponyville.” Fuli added.

“Excellent.” Twilight was now satisfied with the successful report. “Well, we've done everything on the list, but still...” She still has slight worry on her mind. “Future Twilight looked like she'd been through a horrible ordeal. I just have this nagging feeling we should be looking for something bigger than loose bolts and leaky pipes.”

Suddenly they heard loud roaring from nearby where a giant three-headed dog appears right in front of everyone in Ponyville releasing a thunderous roar.

“Okay, everypony, follow my lead…” Pinkie began before Bunga finished.

“Run for it!” He screamed before everyone followed suit and retreated to their homes while locking their doors.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“What is that thing?!”

Both Kion and Spike exclaimed in shock for they have never saw a dog that big along with having three heads.

“That's Cerberus!” Twilight answered while the three dog heads chew on the fruit pieces on top of the roof of Sugarcube Corner. “He's supposed to be guarding the gates of Tartarus. But if he's here, then all the ancient evil creatures that have been imprisoned there could escape and destroy Equestria!”

“Destroy Equestria?!” Spike asked.

“Yeah! Isn't it great?” Twilight responded before approaching him ready to take him on just when Cereberus was starting to lift a leg up. “Hey, Cerberus! You look like you could use some obedience training! Magic obedience training!” She had her horn ready to use magic when suddenly… “Huh?”

Fluttershy already subdued him with nothing but kindness and affection.

“Who's the cute widdle three-headed dog?” She said to him while mildly impressing Twilight and Kion.

“I don’t believe it.” Kion was left amazed yet stunned.

“Wow, I knew you were good with animals, but this is amazing!” Twilight remarked.

“Aww, he's just a big furry guy who got out of his yard, that's all.” Fluttershy sweetly returned. “Right, Cerberus? Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy?”

Just then both Pinkie and Bunga were both running by still screaming off the top of their lungs.

“Pinkie.”

“Bunga.”

Twilight and Kion both addressed them.

“Yes, Twilight?”

“What’s up, Kion?”

“Do you have a ball I can borrow?” Twilight asked with her question more directed at Pinkie Pie.

“I have balls stashed all over Ponyville, in case of ball emergency.” Pinkie positively answered by pulling out one of the hidden balls from the nearby trees to which Twilight happily levitates with her magic so she can use it bring him back to Tartarus.

“Hey, Cerberus! Look what I have!” Twilight said to them in a sing-song tone before leading the way with the ball in tow with the eager three-headed dog wanting to play with it. “I'll be back as soon as I've returned him to the gates of Tartarus. Once he's back at home, there'll be no disaster.”

Normally, Kion would have asked to see if she needs help but it seemed pretty clear she can handle bringing an enormous three-headed dog back to Tartarus on her own. Although, he couldn’t help but wonder what was going on through her mind that led her into having the town go through all of that trouble. So he decided he’ll just wait for her when she gets back at the Golden Oaks Library to question her.

Much to his surprise, she was gone through the rest of the day, in fact she was gone all night to the point he ended sleeping over at the library with Spike and the by the time she got back it was already morning.

“I wish Twilight would go on epic adventures more often.” Spike said pleased while yawning and stretching while waking up. “Best night's sleep I've had in weeks.”

“Huh?” Kion said while waking up too just as Twilight arrives back home. “Twilight.” He rushed over to her. “How'd it go with Cerberus?”

“Great. I got him back before any of the evil creatures could escape.” Twilight happily answered even with her mane a little dirty and messy with mud on her furcoat.

“Wow! And it you just got back!” Kion remarked with how much time had passed since then. “Great work!”

“Thanks!”

“So, Twilight…” Kion then began to ask. “…what happened the other day that had you disaster proofing the entire town?”

“Well…” Twilight began before answering. “…this is going to sound hard to believe but I saw my future self the other day.”

“Huh?”

“She just appeared to me wearing this spy suit and had a very different looking mane.” She explained while Kion listens intently to make sure he is hearing this right. “And top of that she had a scar on her face…Ooh that reminds me.” She then quickly rushed over to a nearby mirror to make sure her face is okay just as Spike painfully burped out a letter from the Princess. “Oh no.”

“What's the big deal, it's just a 'lost dog' flyer.” Spike commented while showing her the letter. “I guess the Princess hasn't heard we found Cerberus yet.”

“It's not that, it's this!” Twilight corrected while showing him the cut on her left cheek.

“A paper cut?” Spike commented unconcerned. “Come on, Twilight, you really need to toughen up. Just clean it out and you'll be fine.”

“The cut's near the exact same spot as the scar on future Twilight's cheek!” She explained while now increasingly worried. “We haven't changed the future at all! The disaster is still coming!”

“Twilight, it’s okay.” Kion assured her while placing his paws on her shoulders. “Let’s just focus on getting that paper cut taken care if.”

Even after Kion managed to clean it up and bandage it she still couldn’t help worry about Future Twilight.

“If the disaster wasn't caused by Cerberus getting loose, then what could it possibly be?” She couldn’t help up wonder while pacing around the library in circles.

“I dunno, but maybe you ought to give the pacing a rest.” Spike responded while trying to resist laughing since she was pacing so much she created a dent in the floor. “You've worn a groove into the floor!”

“I don't have time for another one of your lectures, Spike!” Twilight dismissed it. “This is serious! I did everything I could think of to change the future. But it didn't work. So maybe it's not what I do... Maybe it's what I don't do!” She then thought while teleporting out of the rut she created and onto another spot in the library. “If I stand right here and don't move a muscle until next Tuesday, I can't possibly do whatever it is that future Twilight wanted to warn me not to do!”

“What?” Kion was confused. “You can’t be serious, Twilight?”

“Really?“ Spike also couldn’t believe it. “So... no matter what happens, you're not gonna move a muscle, huh?” He then thought of an idea while starting to want to take advantage of this. “Then maybe you won't mind if I...” He quickly rushes in and out of the room. “…eat an entire tub of ice cream!” He quickly got to work with a spoon and starting eating the tub’s contents in a nosily manner much to a struggling Twilight’s discomfort. “Mmm! So good!”

“Spike, stop! Think of the stomach ache!” Twilight tried to warn her through gritted teeth.

“Stomach ache, huh? That's future Spike's problem.” Spike dismissed it while pressing forward with eating ice cream until Kion quickly snatched the tub away from him. “Hey!”

“Sorry but this is for your own good, Spike.” Kion told him before putting the ice cream away just as both Rainbow Dash and Fuli arrive at the library.

“Hey, Twilight, another Pegasus just got back from Baltimare with an all-clear and…” Rainbow began before seeing Twilight frozen in place. “What's going on?

“Aren't you gonna move?” Fuli inquired.

“Nope.” Spike answered for her. “She sure isn't! In fact, she's not gonna move 'til next Tuesday! She thinks it'll prevent the disaster from happening!”

“Say what?” Fuli asked looking a little dumbfounded herself while Rainbow wastes no time laughing.

“Oh, this is too rich. Hey, Twilight!” She then suddenly shouted in her direction. “There's a mouse right behind you!”

Twilight flinched with widen eyes and her lips bitten into to which both Rainbow and Spike both laughed while Kion and Fuli frowned for the fact they don’t find very funny.

“Wait, wait, wait, let me try!” Spike then moved to the nearby desk to pick up a feather so he can tickle Twilight.

“Spike for the love of Simba don’t!” Fuli warned him through deaf ears since he decided to do it anyways.

He relentlessly tickled Twilight until she used her magic to throw him off which sent him flying back into the wall and ended up burping fire to which both Kion and Fuli both narrowly dodged it. But Twilight herself didn’t have time to react and wasn’t so lucky when the blast hit her.

Once the smoke cleared everyone turned their eyes towards Twilight with widen eyes of shock.

“Oh no!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“See what happens you play with fire.” Fuli chastised Spike.

“What happened?” Twilight sternly asked.

“I'm so sorry!” Spike apologized. “I didn't mean to! It was a total accident!”

“Show me.” She demanded.

“Uhhh... I'm not so sure that's a–“ Rainbow tried to talk her out it.

“Show me!” Twilight ordered with Kion bringing her a mirror to look at herself with and saw that her mane is burnt with it now being in the same style as Future Twilight. “Oh no! This is the same mane cut as future Twilight!”

“Y'know... it really doesn't look too bad...” Kion tried to say to make her feel better before rushing out and in the room with a bottle of gel and a comb in his paws. “…just needs a little neatening up.”

“I don't care how it looks! It's just another sign that the future hasn't changed!” Twilight complained while Fuli puts her paws to work in fixing up the unicorn’s mane into a more slicked back style like Kion’s mane. “Not doing anything didn't work either! Oh, I wish there was a way to know what was going to happen so I could stop it!”

“You wanna see the future?” Spike asked then offered. “I might know somepony who can help!”

“You know someone who can see the future?” Fuli scoffed when the baby dragon leads them into town. “Like who?”

“What's this?” Twilight asked Spike while coming across a tent with a crystal ball on the sign in front of them.

“It's Madame Pinkie's place.” Spike answered.

“Madame Pinkie?” Twilight returned rather skeptical.

“Really?” Fuli questioned unimpressed and flatly while the group all walked inside to find the mare looking inside a crystal orb while wearing a purple turban with a matching scarf and feather.

“Come... Enter the chamber of Madame Pinkie Pie... For the answers you seek, let us consult the mystical orb of fate's destiny...” Pinkie greeted in a spooky tone of voice before reverting back into her usual cheerful tone. “Do you like my mystical orb of fate's destiny? I just got it. Cool, huh?”

“Yeah, uh... best one I've seen.” Twilight answered while the four take their seats before letting Pinkie continue.

“Look deep into the crystal ball... for soon it will reveal all!” She said in her spooky fortune teller voice while examining the crystal ball while Kion and Fuli glance at each other with matching deadpan expressions. “Ah, yes, I see something... It is a vision of the future... I see... you, Twilight. You will get a really cool birthday present next year...”

“Yes, and?” Twilight eagerly asked expecting more.

“That's it.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yep. Cool birthday present.” She cemented that’s all there is to it but it wasn’t enough to satisfy Twilight.

“Pinkie, I need your Pinkie Sense to tell me what the impending disaster is that future Twilight was trying to warn me about!” The unicorn urged of the pink mare for anything else.

“Oh, my fortunetelling has nothing to do with my Pinkie Sense, silly.” She replied. “It's only good for vague and immediate events.” Suddenly her tail twitched when a flower pot suddenly fell on Twilight’s head. “Like that, see?” She then looked up her tent. “Where did that even come from?”

“Twilight?” Kion asked to make sure she is okay while taking the damaged flower pot off of her head.

“Everything okay?” Fuli also asked the unicorn getting up and walking out of the tent.

Seeing that this is going nowhere she just decided to cut her losses and go home with a hoof to her head still fuming in pain from the flower pot landing on her head.

“Doesn’t look like it.” Kion answered while preparing to follow after her. “Let’s just go and make sure she makes it home okay.”

Both Kion and Fuli rushed to Twilight’s side so they can lead her back home with Spike following after them while taking his time walking.

“So what’s going with Twilight?” Fuli asked the lion prince still not caught on what she is going through.

“It’s a long story.” Kion replied before going into details on the way back.

The next morning, Pinkie Pie made her way on over to the Golden Oaks Library hoping to make sure everything is okay.

“Lalalalalalala, lalalala...” She said to herself while bouncing on over to the library. “Gosh, I haven't seen Twilight since the flowerpot incident. Hope she still isn't mad.” She happily hoped before walking inside and found a rather surprising sight in front of her. “Uhhhh...”

It was a massive work in progress to which both Kion and Fuli are equally surprised to see it as much as Pinkie Pie. Piles of papers, along with graphs, charts, telescopes and scientific machinery set up all around the room with Twilight herself moving back and forth between each and every one of them.

“Off by point zero two from yesterday.” She said to herself while briefly looking into her telescope with a bandage on her head before moving to her charts and notes with tired eyes. “Carry the fifteen... Negative azimuth on the fourteenth moon...

“Hey Pinkie, Kion, Fuli.” Spike greeted them.

“Didn’t Twilight just warn you not to eat so much of that stuff?” Kion recalled. “You’re gonna get sick if you keep this up.”

“Who cares?” He responded indifferent while still eating it. “As long as I can keep eating ice cream. Sorry, future Spike.”

“And as long as you keep that up, you are going to be future Spike by next Tuesday.” Fuli commented under her breath before the others turn their attention back to Twilight.

“Is she okay?” Pinkie asked both the Fiercest and the Fastest of the Guard. “Boy, Twilight's really serious about finding out about that cool birthday present, isn't she?” Pinkie then figured.

“It’s not that, Pinkie.” Kion corrected. “She’s just really serious about finding out how to prevent the impending disaster her future self told her the other day.”

“So I was thinking, after I came to see Madame Pinkie and the flowerpot landed on my head—see the bandage? Just like the bandage from the future...” Twilight explained to everyone.

“Okay.” Fuli just said still concerned.

“I had an epiphany after that flowerpot. Doing things didn't work, not doing things didn't work, and I couldn't predict the future either, so I only had one other choice. Monitor everything.” She further explained while showing her tired eyes.

“Makes sense to me!” Fuli said with a shrug while Pinkie was slightly creeped out when the unicorn got in her face.

“That way no matter what happens in the future, I'll be ready!” Twilight added before returning to her telescope. “I thought I saw something last night in the Horsehead Nebula, but after staring at it for three straight hours I realized, I was wrong!”

“Three hours?” Kion asked in surprise hearing this. “When did you sleep?”

“Oh, I didn't sleep.” She answered. “I haven't slept since future Twilight was here. There are only three days left until next Tuesday, I can sleep all I want after that!”

“You've been awake too long, Twilight.” Spike commented while opening up and chugging down another tub of ice cream while wearing the previous container on his head.

Fuli shook her head rather annoyed by that comment before turning back to Twilight with something on her mind.

“I’d hate to correct you Twilight, but Tuesday's not three days from now, Tuesday's tomorrow!”

“Really?” Twilight asked while quickly gathering many of her papers and charts together for closer examination. “Then that means nearly all the signs have come true! I haven't done a thing to prevent the catastrophe! If Tuesday's tomorrow, and the disaster happens by Tuesday morning, then there's only one solution. I'll just have to... stop time!”

“What? How?” Both Kion and Fuli asked simultaneously from what she had just vowed she would do and the answer to that question involved a trip to Canterlot with the whole group of five wearing black spy suits through the Friendship Express.

“Remind me how we got into this?” Fuli whisper asked to Kion who is equally at a loss for an answer.

“To make sure Twilight doesn’t lose it again.” He whisper answered back. “As soon as whatever happens tomorrow passes through we can worry about making sure she gets some much needed rest.“

“Okay, the Canterlot archives are right over there. Let's move!” Twilight ushered them to follow her in a whispered tone before stealthily making her way to the castle with Kion and Fuli following suit. At the same time both Spike casually walks their way forward while carrying an ice cream cone while Pinkie hops her way forward.

“Uhh... I don't think we need to sneak around, Twilight. It's not illegal to walk around Canterlot.” Spike tried to point out.

“It is when you’re talking about sneaking into the Canterlot archives.” Twilight pointed out before she alerted everyone of something that caught her attention “Guard!” She quickly posed as a statue identical to the one in front of her while Kion and Fuli remained hidden in the bushes. “C'mon, you guys!” She urged both Pinkie and Spike to do the same with the former taking a more cheeriful approach with Spike doing the same with little choice in the matter. The guard passed by without a second glance nor noticed the three. “That was close.” She exhaled in relief.

“I dunno why we have to wear these things, either.” Spike complained finding the rubber he stretched a little uncomfortable.

“Aren't we wearing them for fun?” Pinkie asked.

“No, there's nothing fun about this!” Twilight corrected them before pressing forward.

“Oh... Are you sure?” Pinkie again asked.

“Focus, guys!” She said right in the party pony’s face. “The only way to prevent this disaster is to stop time! Time spells are kept in the Star Swirl the Bearded wing, the most secure section of the archives. That's why we're sneaking around!”

“Awesome! That sounds fun!” Pinkie cheerfully commented.

“No, it's not fun!” She irritably corrected her to which she lowered her ears in disappointment before following after her.

During her stealth sneaking around a part of her suit got caught and torn from a twig in a bush.

“I still don't understand how sneaking into the archives is gonna help her find out about her birthday present.” Pinkie cluelessly wondered to the others with Kion and Fuli still following Twilight’s stealth pattern.

“It’s not about her birthday present.” Fuli pointed out. “It’s about preventing a disaster that she thinks is going to happen.”

“Really?” She asked to which Fuli just groaned in annoyance before following after the unicorn in charge.

“The coast is clear.” She told everyone upon looking in the hallway from the window she opened. “Now slowly lift me into the window so we can quietly get in.”

Both Kion and Fuli complied without further question before climbing up themselves with Pinkie accidentally bumping the two into Twilight from Pinkie pushing them in before she and Spike pressed forward blissfully.

“Let's get this over with.” Spike said with a sigh while still slurping on his ice cream.

Everyone (more specifically Twilight, Kion, and Fuli) all stealthily made their way through the hallways undetected by the guards keeping watch. Twilight briefly hadto quickly turn back and drag Spike when his obsession for ice cream led to him continuing to eat the dropped scoop behind the guards before taking cover on high ground with the nearby drapes to avoid detection.

“Okay, if my calculations are correct, the Star Swirl the Bearded wing should be right... here.” Twilight directed everyone’s attention towards the upcoming door ahead of them.

“Uh, Twilight?” Spike spoke up to her.

“What is it, Spike?” She irritably returned.

“Isn't this where we came in?” He answered pointing they indeed started there.

“Cool! Can we climb in the window again? That was super fun!” Pinkie eagerly asked leaving Twilight dumbfounded that happened.

“I don't understand. It's supposed to be right here... How are we supposed to find it now?” Twilight wondered while pacing around a little.

“Would the Star Swirl the Bearded wing happen to be this room here?” Fuli dully asked pointing to the room on the opposite side of the room.

“Oh, yes it is. Thanks. How’d I miss that?” Twilight responded while turning her attention to the locked gate. “Look at all those priceless magic scrolls. There are more than I ever imagined!” Twilight then expressed her amazement at the sight of the room when Pinkie alerted them of something.

“Twilight, the guard!” Pinkie pointed their attention to said pony approaching them with nothing and nowhere to hide. They’re cornered.

“What do we do, what do we do?!” Twilight worryingly said expecting the worst for being caught with Kion and Fuli ready to back her up when needed.

“Hey, Twilight, haven't seen you in a while.” Said guard pleasantly greeted. “Let me open that for ya.” He then used his magic to unlock the door allowing the five to enter.

“Thanks!” The unicorn thanked with an embarrassed chuckle.

“Least that’s one of our worries taken care of.” Fuli commented with a groan upon realizing the unicorn's connections had made this completely unnecessary. “So much for stealth mode.”

Nevertheless, neither Kion nor Fuli hold anything against Twilight while still having her back with finding what she is looking for.

“Oh no!” She exclaimed upon seeing a startling sight.

“What is it Twilight?” Kion asked the unicorn looking at herself in the mirror.

“I look just like future Twilight...” She commented on her attire and appearance. “The last sign has come true!”

“And that's bad, right?” Pinkie asked before leading everyone to the nearby window.

“Come on! It's almost Tuesday morning! The disaster could happen at any moment!”

“But how do we find the time-stopping spell? There must be a million scrolls here!” Spike asked while directing her attention to the many documents in the room.

“I. Don't. Know!” Twilight exclaimed at a loss before she and the others frantically looked around for anything useful with the sun starting to rise. Even with five friends looking each piece of paper and book word for word time was too thin to find out the answer.

“Twilight, it's over! It's officially Tuesday morning.” Spike told the panicking unicorn while they both looked out the window.

“Nnngh, no! Tuesday morning, the disaster! Incoming!” Twilight braced for impact fearing the worst yet nothing happened.

“It’s okay Twilight.” Kion assured while placing a paw on her head to get her to look around. “Nothing bad happened, see.” He gestured her the peaceful sunrise with the princess passing by somehow getting inside unnoticed.

“Good morning, Twilight, Kion. Love the new hairstyle. Well, happy Tuesday!” She casually greeted by walking by finding the unicorn’s slicked back hairstyle cute and amusing while surprising the others in the room by her sudden appearance.

“Happy Tuesday to you too.” Kion casually returned although slightly awkward.

“How did she…?” Fuli whispered to Kion who just shrugged.

“Other than being a magical alicorn princess I don’t know.”

“Why isn't anypony surprised to see me sneaking around in here?!” Twilight voiced rather baffled by what had just happened. “Is it possible there never was a disaster? That I've just been making myself frantic over nothing?!”

“Probably.” Fuli honestly yet lightly answered. “If that’s true then what was your future self trying to tell you?”

“I don't know. But I do know one thing. I look ridiculous.” Twilight commented while looking at herself in a mirror before giggling along with Spike with Kion and Fuli joining in.

“At least this will be something to laugh about. Although the mane style is kind of flattering.” Fuli giggled with Kion resisting the urge to burst a loud one upon seeing her mane style is identical to his.

“And it's all because I couldn't stop worrying and let the future handle itself! Well, not anymore.” Twilight then said before making a vow. “From now on, I'm gonna solve problems as they come, and stop worrying about every little thing!”

Just then Pinkie rushed over to the group.

“Twilight, Twilight, I found something!” Pinkie presented the unicorn with a particular piece of paper to which she levitated over so she can read it herself. “It doesn't stop time, but it lets you go back in time. It says you can go back once, and it only lasts for a few moments. Does that help?”

“Pinkie, you're a genius!” Twilight complimented finding it very useful.

“Woo-hoo!” Pinkie cheered.

“Now I can go back and tell past Twilight that she doesn't need to go berserk with worry about a disaster that's never gonna come!” Twilight then said before casting the spell that allowed her teleport back in time to the exact moment Past Twilight met Future Twilight.

“Twilight, you've got to listen to me!” The current Twilight urgently spoke to her.

“Who are you? I mean, you're me, but I'm me too. How can there be two me's? It's not scientifically possible. You are not scientifically possible!” Past Twilight repeated the current Twilight’s words from the past.

“Twilight, please! I have a very important message for you from the future!” Current Twilight urgently tried to tell her past self with the scenario repeating itself once more.

“You're from the future?!” Past Twilight asked in astonishment.

“That's right, now listen–“ She answered before being interrupted.

“What happened to you?” Past Twilight inquired while circling around her. “The future must be awful.”

“Please! I don't have much time!”

“Is there some sort of epic pony war in the distant future or something?”

“Actually, I'm from next Tuesday morning…” Current Twilight corrected. ”…but that's not important right now!”

“I can't believe time travel is really possible! How did you, I mean, I figure it out?”

“The time spells are in the Canterlot archives. But that's not–“ Current Twilight answered before being interrupted.

“Really? Where? I've never seen them.”

“They're in the Star Swirl the Bearded wing. Now, you have to listen to

“Is time travel fun, or does it hurt? I have so many questions–“

Twilight then placed a hoof on Past Twilight’s mouth so she can say what she needs to tell her.

“I have something extremely important to tell you about the future, and I only have a few seconds, so you've got to listen! Whatever you do, don't–“

And that was all Twilight could say before being teleported back to the present.

“–waste your time... worrying... about... Ugh! I can't believe I just did that!” Twilight groaned of what she had just put herself through.

“I take it trying to avert the disaster didn’t go well?” Kion asked since she is still in her current appearance.

“Nope.” She answered with a groan. “Now I'm gonna spend the next week freaking out about a disaster that doesn't even exist! Ugh...”

“Ah, don't worry about it. It's past Twilight's problem now.” Pinkie assured.

“Huh, I guess you're right, Pinkie.” Twilight admitted with a giggle before everyone turned their attention to Spike groaning in pain with his stomach gurgling.

“Ohhh... my stomach...” He groaned while falling onto his back. “I, I think it's all that ice cream... I thought the stomach ache would be future Spike's problem... but now I am future Spike. Ohh...“

“Told you.” Fuli couldn’t help but smugly remark to the dragon for putting his money where his mouth is while the others giggled.

“Come on, future Spike. Let's get you home.” Twilight said to him while placing him on his back on the route back home for some much needed care and rest before thinking deep in thought of something.

“Twilight?” Kion asked upon noticing this. “Everything okay?”

“Uh-huh.” She positively replied with an aside glance towards him. “Just thinking of something.”

“What is it?” Kion wondered what’s suddenly bothering her since she isn't quite looking at him in the eyes in response to his question.

“Well…” She recalled the encounter with Future Twilight. “…when Future Twilight came back to warn me I couldn’t help but notice something a little different about her.”

“Like what?” Fuli asked curiously.

“For starters I noticed that Future Twilight’s mane was black rather than my natural dark purple color.

“Really?” The cheetah asked finding this confusing along with Kion.

“And not only that but Future Twilight had a scar that appeared straight across her left eye.” Twilight explained while recalling the memory and Future Twilight’s exact appearance to the best of her memory.

“Really?” Kion asked. “Are you sure?”

“Yes I’m sure.” Twilight asserted she is not making this up. “But I don’t know. I mean yes I could have been seeing things but this was before it all started.”

“And we believe you.” Fuli responded in an understanding tone. “But what does all that mean?”

“Couldn’t it be just a little power glitch or a coincidence?” Spike suggested.

“Probably.” Twilight slightly agreed while still pondering what she saw earlier. “But I might want to some investigating back at the library just to be sure.”

“Good idea.” Kion agreed deciding it was best to be safe. “Hopefully it is just a coincidence.”

The five all leave the library without further question unaware that Scar is secretly watching them from the very darkness from the room’s top floor before teleporting away from the scene where he is greeted to a shadowed figure deep in the Everfree Forest.

“Thanks for busting me out.” He thanked the lion. “And I must say your plan to keep that unicorn and her friends busy worked very well. Don’t you think?”

“It sure did. But she's not ready yet.” Scar agreed before handing him a cloak. “For now, put this on and continue laying low in the meantime. I don’t want her or her friends catching onto us…yet!”

“Of course.” He agreed before putting it on with his yellow eyes shining sinisterly. “Oh, how do I love surprises.”

“Believe me when I tell you it’s to DIE for.” Scar returned with a sly grin in his direction before teleporting themselves away in a flash.

Author's Note

In this episode with not much to explain here, Twilight has been greeted by her future self to warn her of an impending disaster for this upcoming Tuesday.

Needless to say, despite Twilight doing everything in her power to try to avert it she still winds up appearing like her future self due to worrying too much over what's going to happen...

...Or at least she thinks unaware of Scar's true involvement in playing the situation in his favor for another ally to his cause.

For those who knows happens later on the MLP series please do not spoil it in the comments since there will be big things to come later on in this story.

Anyways moving on, next up is "Dragon Quest." where Spike goes on an adventure to where his kind came from so he can get a better understanding of dragon nature.

Episode 31: Dragon Quest

Episode 31:

Dragon Quest

Here in Ponyville, a once in a lifetime event is about occur later today, the rare once a generation dragon migration. Since dragons are dangerous creatures from their large and intimidating size, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Bunga, Fuli, and Beshte are digging up a trench so they can safely watch the migration. Aside from having do that, everyone was excited for this upcoming event…

Well, all but two members of the Guard, Fluttershy and Ono who are both very reluctant to go due to their fear of dragons. Even though they aren’t afraid to stand up to them when it counts they are still afraid of them.

“C'mon, Fluttershy, it'll be fun!” Twilight urged her to join them with Rainbow Dash, Kion, and Kyoga. “There's nothing fun about dragons! Scary, yes! Fun, no!” Fluttershy refused.

“It’ll be okay, Fluttershy.” Kion assured. “You’ll have the whole Guard by your side the entire time. We even have a personal trench so we can safely watch from down below.”

“Still not interested.” Fluttershy still wasn’t interested and neither was Ono who was ducking behind the yellow peagsus for safety.

“Neither am I.” Ono added while still cowering. “Even facing off against that dragon was scary.”

“Look I understand that you’re both scared but you both have nothing to worry about.” Kyoga took a turn in trying to ease their nerves.

“How and why?” Ono inquired.

“Because you’re looking at two masters of magic who can form a protection spell to keep even the biggest dragon away from us.” Kyoga answered. “We got your backs on this one.”

“Please Fluttershy, Ono.” Twilight implored. “It’s not like you’re going be watching them up close.”

“Exactly. Like Twilight said in a trench watching from a far and safe distance.” Kion added. “You both have nothing to worry about.”

“I don’t know.” Fluttershy voiced still unsure of the idea before Rainbow flies over to Fluttershy with a photograph in her hoof.

“Look, Fluttershy, I watched that boring butterfly migration with you even though I wasn’t really interested. You owe me.” She presented her the photo of her enjoying said migration while Rainbow looks aside not very excited as her peagsus friend.

“Okay.” Fluttershy sighed seeing it would be unfair to refuse to go especially since remembering that the whole Guard will be there all by her side the whole time and that it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“Count me in.” Ono also decided while still emitting a scared gulp with Kion gently patting him on the shoulder.

“We’re all in this together.” Kion again told him. “Just stick by us the whole time and you’ll both be okay.”

With Fluttershy and Ono both on board, they all made their way to the trench where everyone all put on camouflage outfits for the occasion so the dragons don’t easy spot them in the trench they will be watching them from.

“I don't see any dragons.” Twilight whispered to everyone while looking up in the sky with her binoculars.

“Me neither.”

“Me neither neither.”

Both Applejack and Pinkie Pie responded empty-hoofed.

“Shoot! You don't think we missed them, do you?” Bunga asked while looking through the wrong end of the binoculars.

“Hope not.” Beshte responded while gently flipping the binoculars around so that his honey badger friend is now looking at them the right way.

“Nope.” Twilight shook her head while still whispering to the others. “We're just a little early, and I'm glad we are. This way, we can watch every moment of the migration without bringing any unwanted attention to ourselves!”

“Yoo-hoo!” Rarity called out to everyone wearing an over the top and extragvant purple dress accompanied with confetti and a red carpet rollout. “Well?”

“Think you might have spoke too soon there.” Kyoga whispered to Twilight while the others are trying to understand her choice of outfit.

“What do you think? Am I the toast of the trench or what?” Rarity asked everyone.

“You'll be toast alright, when the dragons see you parading around in that getup.” Applejack commented in a hushed tone.

“Are you kidding?!” Ono exclaimed. “She’ll be burnt to a crisp in seconds!”

“Shh.” Twilight quickly placed a hoof on the egret’s beak before addressing the fashionista. “You look very nice, Rarity, but could you maybe look nice down here in the trench with us?”

“Along with putting on the proper camouflage outfit.” Fuli added while handing her one so she can blend in with everyone seeking refuge in the trench while Twilight and Kyoga quickly use their magic to evaporate the confetti and red carpet away.

“Nice is an understatement. I look fabulous! Who says camouflage has to be drab?” Rarity dismissed her friends concerns until Kyoga approached her while shaking her head

“Rarity. This camouflage outfit is a must.” She politely yet firmly told her while making her purple dress disappear. “Change into it.”

Rarity quickly covered herself feeling violated by that gesture before quickly summoning a fitting room so she can put it on without anyone seeing her do it. By the time she already did as she was told the migration had begun.

“Ahoy, maties! Dragons ho!” Pinkie alerted everyone to the sky full of dragons to which everyone expect for Fluttershy and Ono who watch from the back marveled with their binoculars.

Seeing this Beshte quickly rushed over to the side so they feel safer inside.

“Poa!”

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“Wow, amazing!”

Beshte, Kion, and Twilight all expressed as they all fly by with a yellow dragon doing a loop-de-loop maneuver over the trench.

“Pfft, pretty lame move. Is that all they've got?” Rainbow scoffed unimpressed.

The red dragon that heard that remark responded by breathing fire at their trench after being given a nudge by the green dragon. Everyone all ducked while Rainbow ended up getting her face covered in soot.

“What do ya think of that 'move', Rainbow Dash? Still think they're lame?” Applejack questioned the arrogant peagsus with a smirk.

“Uh, not so much.” Rainbow replied with her previous comment retracted after that. “The word 'fierce' comes to mind.”

“And formidable.” Rarity commented very impressed.

“And powerful.” Kyoga added.

“And 'super-duper scary'!” Pinkie added finding them a little intimidating herself.

“It’s okay, you’re both safe.” Beshte gently said to both Fluttershy and Ono whimpering and hugging each other for safety from the dragon’s fiery breath.

“Yeah. Us dragons are definitely a force to be reckoned with.” Spike said to the gang while handing everyone cupcakes and cookies he made himself.

“Maybe for the big boys.” Bunga couldn’t help but snicker especially since he is currently wearing a pink apron with hearts on it. “I mean sure is one scary apron you’ve got there.”

“It sure is.” Rainbow laughed along with Bunga.

“What's wrong with wearing an apron?” Spike inquired. “You won't be laughing when you spill blueberries all over your scales— feathers. That's one tough stain!”

“Sure whatever you say tough guy.” Bunga chuckled to which is met with a slap in the back of the head from Fuli who also did the same to Rainbow.

“Ow.” Both Bunga and Rainbow complained.

“That’s enough out of both of you!” Fuli said crossly to them for their insensitive behavior.

“Spike's style is unique and there is nothing wrong with wearing an apron and he is perfect the way he is.” Rarity said in Spike’s defense who blushed at her backing her up. “So show him some respect because it is not polite to laugh at others.”

“Thank you.” Spike felt pleased while unable to resist feeling very touched from her compliments.

“Why of course darling. You've got something those dreadfully fierce dragons can only dream of.” Rarity added.

“What's that?” Spike asked while now flattered.

“Rarity, maybe you shouldn’t…” Kion tried to advise the unicorn from further embarrassing him on deaf ears.

“The cutest widdle chubby cheeks! Ooooo!” Rarity answered while speaking a babyish tone while pressing her hooves on his face and squeezing his cheeks to which he is now left feeling embarrassed again.

“Cute?! Dragons aren't supposed to be cute! Right?” Spike responded with a heavy blush.

“Of course not.” Twilight attempted to assure him. ”I’m sure Rarity only meant to compliment you, right Rarity?” She inquired her with a stern glance towards the other unicorn.

“Yes.” She answered but just had to continue gushing over him. “Oh, sweetie, you are turning the most delightful shade of red. It is most becoming.”

Spike incensed by those over-flattering comments stormed off in anger while throwing down his apron before leaving the trench.

“Oh, isn't he adorable when he waddles off in anger?” Rarity couldn’t stop.

“Waddle?! Rrrrrggggh!” Spike growled while not batting an eye in her direction.

“Seriously?!” Fuli scolded the unicorn. “You just had to go there?!”

“What?” Rarity wondered what she did wrong. “I was only trying to compliment him.”

“Well you sure did a good job of doing the opposite of that.” Kyoga bluntly commented. “Along with getting him to leave like that.”

“Just why did you have to say that?” The cheetah then asked of what she was thinking.

“I wasn’t trying to make him feel bad.” Rarity honestly answered. “I was just trying to compliment him.”

“Understandable. But you might have done it a little too much.” Beshte said speaking his thoughts.

“What do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“Maybe Spike felt being referred to as cute a little too soft for his nature.” Ono suggested his input on the matter.

“But what’s wrong with that?” She asked.

“Considering dragons are meant to be fierce and intimidating creature, that’s probably what Spike wants to thought of being known for too.” Ono explained for Fluttershy. “Even though he is a still a baby dragon he still would like be referred to as a fierce and brave as any other fire-breathing dragon.”

“Oh.” Rarity just said realizing her mistake. “Oops.”

“It’s okay, Rarity.” Fluttershy doesn’t hold anything against her. “I’m sure Spike would you know you didn’t mean too.”

“But I still gotta go apologize to him.” Rarity still voiced her regret preparing to follow him until being held back by Kion and Twilight.

“You can do that after the migration.” Twilight reminded her of the dragons flying over Ponyville. “Unless you want it to be the last thing you say.”

“Of course.” Rarity relented feeling even more embarrassed that she nearly did something even more foolish with a matching grin. “After all everyone knows that unicorns don’t smoke.”

Bunga and Pinkie suddenly burst out laughing hearing that comment while rolling onto his back onto the ground after getting the joke to which the others rolled their eyes in annoyance before focusing on all of the dragons flying overhead.

“Ugh. How is that even jokes that aren’t meant to be funny make him laugh?” Ono thought to himself. “Oh right, because of the pun. Common knowledge really.” He added in a deadpan tone and expression when coming to realize he walked his own mouth into that answer.

The following night after the migration, the question of Spike’s own identity was still fresh on his mind to the point he can’t even sleep.

“What am I? Where am I from? Who am I supposed to be?” Spike asked outloud while keeping Twilight awake.

“I honestly don’t know, Spike.” Twilight responded trying to be polite as possible. “You were given to me as an egg. I don't know who found you or where they found you.”

“Seriously? That's all you know?” Spike complained before getting himself out of bed.

“I'm sorry, Spike.“ Twilight apologized.

“That doesn't tell me anything about who I am! I need answers!” Spike said while looking at himself in the mirror. “I feel like I'm... I'm looking at a complete stranger. Oh!”

“Oh, Spike.” Twilight sympathized and then offered upon seeing him curling him and crying. “Why don't we do some late-night research? See what we can find out.”

“Really? You'd do that?” Spike asked surprised that she is willing to do that for her.

“Of course! I'm sure we can find something.” Twilight happily answered while turning on the lights and started pulling out books from the shelves.

Sadly, even going through the entire library and all through the rest of the night did nothing to satisfy and answer the little dragon’s questions.

“Nothing. Nothing in this one either!” Twilight reported empty-hoofed and with tired eyes.

“Nothing at all about dragons? This is getting ridiculous!” Spike complained.

“I know! It's hard to believe, but ponies know next to nothing about dragons. Apparently they're too rare and too scary to try to talk to or study!” Twilight wished that wasn’t the case.

“I wonder if dragons cry...” Spike asked while now on the verge of tears.

“Aw, Spike.” Twilight handed him a tissue while trying not to cry herself for failing to find him the answers he is looking for.

“It's okay, Twilight. I'm gonna discover who I am if it's the last thing I do!” Spike responded with a more confident and determined tone.

At that moment their friends arrived after knocking on the door.

“Hello!”

“Hey, guys!”

“Good morning, darlings!”

Bunga, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all greeted.

“What’s with the mess?” Kyoga inquired.

“Oh, just a little late night research.” Twilight answered.

“Did you find what you were looking for?” Ono asked.

“I wish we did.” Twilight replied while gesturing to the all of the pulled books that they found nothing.

“Well how about some breakfast with us?” Fuli suggested.

“Wanna come?” Applejack asked.

“It is the most important meal of the day.” Pinkie happily pointed out.

“That sounds great. I'm famished.” Twilight accepted.

“Count me out. I've gotta get an early start!” Spike declined.

“An early start?” Rarity asked in surprise.

“What do you mean?” Beshte also asked where he is going with this.

“Yes! I'm going on a quest of self-discovery! I need to learn what it means to be a dragon! And the only way I'm gonna do that is to join the dragon migration!” Spike answered with confidence.

“What?!?” Everyone all exclaimed in shock hearing this come out of his mouth.

“Spike, you can’t be serious!” Kion exclaimed finding this to be a very bad idea.

“Oh I’m serious Kion!” Spike asserted. “And don’t try to stop me!”

“Spike, that's nonsense talk!” Rainbow tried to reason with him while he is packing his bundle bag. “I know that you're a dragon, but those dragons mean business! They're big, and tough, and scary...”

“And I'm small, and meek... and I like to wear aprons. See?” Spike crossly responded while showing him said apron before tossing it aside.

“Okay Spike please, I’m sorry I made fun of you the other day but all I’m saying is that you could get hurt.” Rainbow apologized before pointing out.

“Coming from the pony who was willing to charge straight into one herself.” Spike pointed out unconvinced.

“Darling, please?” Rarity implored of him. “Don’t do this to yourself. This time I really do have to agree with Rainbow Dash. I don't want those dragons to hurt you.”

“Please listen to us.” Fluttershy pleaded of him. “They’re dangerous.“

“I'm sorry, but I've made up my mind.” Spike refused to change his stance on the matter while tying up his bundle bag together before preparing to head out.

“Oh, uh, quick, do something! Stop him before it's too late!” Rarity pleaded of the others to which Rainbow and Bunga were quick to intercept him and obtain his bundle bag.

“Ngh! Hey! Give it back!” Spike protested to the two of them to let them do this.

“Hold it!” Twilight then called out to them while teleporting in between and them using her magic to separate them before handing Spike his bundle bag to give him her blessing.

“Really?” Spike asked feeling touched by this gesture.

“What?” The others asked in astonishment.

“Don't tell me you think he should go?” Rainbow asked in disbelief.

“Yes I do.” She confirmed before turning to Spike while trying to be very supportive of his decision. “I couldn't answer your questions. My books couldn't either. I understand why you want to look elsewhere. And as a parent, I truly believe you need to go on this quest. And we have no right to stop you.”

“I suppose not.” Rarity reluctantly agreed.

“That’s true.” Kion also came to agree with a sigh.

“Even if none of us likes it.” Fuli added.

“I still say you're nutty, but hey, I've done lots of nutty things.” Rainbow added in admittance.

“Yeah me too.” Bunga added.

“We know.” Everyone all said with eyes that tell it all to which both Rainbow and Bunga groaned under her breath for not sugarcoating it like she hoped.

“Okay, Spike…” Kion began. “…then I guess there is no stopping you if you really want to do this. Good luck.”

“Yep, I guess this is goodbye, Spike.” Twilight added while hugging her son like figure w. “We can't wait to hear about it when you return.”

“Yeah, we hope your quest answers some of your "Who am I?" questions.” Rainbow added.

“Thanks, everypony and everyone. I know it will.” Spike thanked before heading on over to the Dragon Lands.

“Goodbye, Spikey-wikey!”

“Take care!”

“Please be safe.”

“Have fun!”

“Go get 'em, big guy!”

“Knock them dead.”

“Show them who’s boss.”

“Be on the lookout for trouble.”

“Make some new friends.”

“Be ready to run.”

“We have faith in you!”

Rarity, Kion, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Rainbow, Bunga, Applejack, Ono, Beshte, Fuli, and Twilight all waved with big smiles.

“We're following him, right?” Rarity whispered to Twilight while still grinning.

“Of course.” She answered while still sporting her grin. “Right after breakfast.”

“Of course.” Fuli immediately agreed with that.

Spike after leaving the library followed the path of the many dragons flying back home through the skies on foot. Aside from some brief breaks for rest, nothing stopped Spike from following the dragons. Not even sweat, strong winds, heavy rain, nor snow stopped Spike from following after them. The only one he crossed paths with on the way is Cranky Doodle who was more than willing to give him a raft ride down the river since his destination was on the path he was walking on.

But nevertheless, he did finally manage to catch up to them when they reached their home. A small volcanic crater with lava and the one to which Spike climbed up where there are many dragons all around. Some of the fully grown dragons are sleeping on the edge of the crater while the smaller yet teenage dragons are currently down in the crater.

Spike nervously gulped upon nearly dodging a burning crater sent at his direction before noticing the dragons down below.

“Alright, teenage dragons! Now that's more my speed. And size.” Spike commented upon seeing the slightly bigger and older dragons cheering each other on with the red and brown dragons facing off against each other in a wrestling match before running in their direction with hopes of making new friends with them.

At the same time his friends from most of the Guard have followed him all the way out here. Twilight, Rarity, Rainbow Dash in one green dragon costume with green, blue, purple and pink gems as dragon scales. Kion, Kyoga, Fuli, and Bunga all another dragon costume that is blue with purple and pink gems as dragon scales on it.

“I'm telling you, we'll never pass for a real dragon!” Rainbow complained to Rarity while in between the other two ponies.

“Oh, pish-posh! This costume is fabulous, one of my finer creations.” Rarity dismissed it as nonsense.

“Shh!” Twilight riding on top hushed them. “We'll never pass if they hear three voices coming out of one dragon! Now come on, let's go!”

The two groups both followed down the downhill slope after Spike.

“Um, excuse me? Uh, hi. I'm Spike.“ Spike greeted them.

Every dragon stopped what they were doing and locked all eyes and attention on him with the red dragon releasing his grip on the brown dragon.

“You sure your name is Spike and not Shrimp?!” The purple dragon with blonde hair and scales mockingly asked him to which all of the dragon shared a taunting laugh over it.

“No, it's Spike!” Spike corrected while resisting the urge to cry and correct himself. “I'm not, I mean, I'm sure about that...”

“You look more like Peewee to me.” The large overweight brown dragon commented with a slight jab to his shoulder with everyone all laughing at him again.

“Hey guys, c'mon, seriously. Leave him alone or he might fly away.” The red dragon with orange scales spoke in his defense at least until he picked him up and held up upside down. ”That is, uh, if he had any wings!”

Everyone all laughed when the red dragon drops Spike on his head to which the Guard members watching this shake their heads in disgust with their despicable attitude.

“You fly in on your mommy's back during the migration?” The large brown dragon again asked mockingly.

“Not exactly...” Spike responded while clearly confused of the bullying reception he was getting.

“No, no, can't you see baby Spike just hatched?” The purple dragon said to his face. “I bet he still sucks his claw at night!”

“No, I haven't sucked my claw in months!” Spike protested which is met with further laughs.

“This is just sad.” Kyoga muttered under her breath.

“No kidding.” Kion agreed.

“Well, if you weren't just hatched, how come we haven't seen you around before?” The red dragon popped another question for another means of taunting him again with.

“Oh, well, y'see, I live in Ponyville and–“

“Hahaha! Ponyville? That explains it!” He commented before threateningly advancing on the poor little guy. “I knew there was something vaguely pony-ish about you! If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were part pony!”

“Who, me? I'm not part pony! I'm all dragon, see? Raar!” Spike again said in his defense albeit welkly.

“Or maybe you're a pony in a dragon costume.” The red dragon suggested with a rude remark to which everyone all shared another laugh.

“A pony in a dragon costume...!” The purple dragon addressed the Guard watching unaware that they aren’t really ponies.

“Aheh... yeah... hilarious.” Twilight responded with a deep male-sounding voice.

“If you’re an idiot.” Fuli remarked to the dragon with the same disguised voice to which the dragon laughed thinking it’s a joke. “Seriously.” She added flatly to which he laughed even harder hearing that.

“I am a real dragon!” Spike again asserted himself.

“Oh, yeah? Prove it.” The red dragon dared.

“Well... how?“

“By acting like one!” He answered before turning to everyone around him. “Who's up for a little belching contest?” Everyone cheered in agreement before they all took turns showing their best burps.

The white dragon with pink scales went first by releasing a big belch that released a big blue flame from his mouth. The purple dragon with blonde hair and scales went next and released a belch producing a big green flame just as powerful as the first dragon’s fiery burp.

The large brown dragon then released a belch with producing an orange flame so powerful that everyone narrowly dodged and nearly singed the eyebrows of the Guard’s dragon costumes.

“Hevi Kabisa.” Kion exclaimed in shock.

“Un-Bunga-veilable.” Bunga remarked in amazement. “Nice burp.”

“He’s sure got the fire in him.” Kyoga commented in disgust while Fuli turned aside while holding her mouth with a paw to resist the urge to vomit seeing this.

“Ugh.” Fuli complained before briefly sneaking away to throw up behind the rocks.

“You think you can beat that, Peewee?” The red dragon challenged Spike to which he nervously gulped before stepping forward to give his best shot while Twilight watches on in worry.

Spike puffed up his cheeks while trying to muster everything he’s got before being able to produce a small and light belch with a letter from the Princess coming out of his mouth.

“Huh?” The dragons all expressed in confusion before the red one takes it and reads it.

“From the desk of Princess Celestia. Dear Spike, please te– Ha!” He read before scoffing at the contents. “Get this, guys! Spike's pen-pals with a namby-pamby pony princess! Oh, along with a fancy shmacy lion king.”

The dragons all laughed before the red dragon simply tossed away the letter into the nearby lava pit which burned into ash. Twilight gasped in offended shock while Kion narrowed his eyes and growled in anger at the sheer disrespect they were showing to the most powerful rulers in Equestria and the Pride Lands.

“How can he just throw that away?! That letter could be something important!”

“How dare they?!”

“Calm down, Kion.” Fuli quickly urged the prince while Rainbow did the same with Twilight.

“We can't worry about that now, Twilight. We're here to help Spike!” Rainbow reminded.

“I know, I know!” Twilight relented and calmed down along with Kion. “There's no reason to disrespect Princess Celestia that way!”

“Nor my dad.” Kion added still furious while focusing their attention back to the dragons giving Spike a hard time.

“Maybe tail wrestling is more your speed.” The red dragon then suggested.

“Uh...”

“Yeah!” All of the teenagers agreed before they moved on to their next activity.

“Ready... go!” The red dragon told the large purple dragon and skinny black dragon locking tails to start wrestling with them trying to pull each other to the ground with them alone.

The two released grunts of exertion before the purple dragon finally triumphed over the black dragon after a minute of tail pulling.

“The winner!” The red dragon announced while lifting the victor’s tail while the loser’s grasped his tail in pain.

“Good old tail wrestling...” Spike commented while grasping his tail knowing what’s to come when he has to step up to the challenge.

“We can't let little Spikey-wikey wrestle one of them! He'll get clobbered!” Rarity voiced to the others.

“Let's go!” Twilight told them before leading her pony friends forward. “I challenge Spike to a tail wrestle!” She said with her male disguised voice.

“Who's this weirdo?” The red dragon questioned.

“I think he's Crackle's cousin.” The blonde haired dragon whispered his best bet when a similar colored dragon burped smoke and scratched his scales with his feet.

“Oh, that would explain it.” The red dragon figured without question before letting them lock tails and wrestle. “Ready? Go!”

Spike gave his best like before and so far it wasn’t even moving the three ponies without even moving a muscle until Rarity and Rainbow Dash nodded their heads of what they need to do. They all dropped to the ground so their costume crashes down to make it look like Spike ‘defeated.” him.

“Spike's the winner!” The red dragon announced while briefly holding him upside down with everyone cheering for him. “Nice going, little Spike! Maybe you are a dragon after all!”

“Yeah! Maybe I am!” Spike felt pleased even when getting flicked on the nose while his pony friends retreat to their Lion Guard friends.

“Rainbow Dash, I can't believe your silly plan actually worked.” Rarity remarked to which she responded by bumping her flank onto her nose. “Ow.”

“Alright, who's next?” Spike then challenged to which both Fuli and Kyoga face-palmed at his declaration.

“Don’t you know when to quit?” Kyoga irritably muttered at his stupidity.

“Getting a little cocky, huh? I like that.” The red dragon commended while pointing him to a small aqua-colored dragon with yellow scales. “So how about you wrestle... him!”

“Okay…” Fuli shrugged along with Spike seeing that he is a doable opponent…

…until they saw that said dragon had a huge tail with spike scales on it. “…maybe not.”

“Go!”

“Whooooooooa!” Spike screamed upon being thrown into the wall and was immediately defeated there.

Once he fell back onto the ground the red dragon picked him up and carried him to the top of a nearby pile of jewels.

“So, Spike, you haven't exactly proven yourself as a dragon yet, have you?” He told him.

“But... I get an A for effort?” Spike hoped for a little leniency here.

“Huh, maybe.” He complied. “Let's see how you do in this next contest.” He pushed Spike off and sent him tumbling down the hill of gems and onto the ground. “King of the hoard!“

Many dragons took up the challenge to try to knock the red dragon off of the top to which none of them were able to while Spike climbs his way up the pile.

“This is my chance.” He voiced his determination not to give up.

Just when he is nearing the top, the blonde haired dragon was charging up towards him to which Kion took notice of and led his companions into intercepting him and knocking him to the ground.

“I don’t think so!” Kion growled which allowed Spike the time to get to the top and poke his head scales on the red dragon who he and the obese brown dragon both tumbled to the ground after losing their balance.

“King of the ho-“ Spike cheered until he ended slipping and falling off of the gem pile again.

“Looks like this is another fail for you, little Spike.” The red dragon told him with unimpressed crossed arms. “Can't wait to watch you fail at lava cannonball, too.” Spike nervously gulped hearing this before they all made their way to the lava pit for their next big fun activity.

“Whoever makes the biggest lava splash is the ultimate dragon!” He told every dragon lined up at lies below them. “Geronimo!”

He dove first producing a big splash sending a drop that nearly came in contact with both the ponies, lions, and honey badger.

“Spike's on his own this time.” Twilight whispered to the others before backing away from the edge of the pit.

“No question about that.” Fuli agreed without second thought while actively restraining Bunga. As much it would easy to let him, everyone values him as a friend and no one would be happy if Bunga dropped to his death by jumping in lava.

Every dragon all jumped in creating big splashes rivaling the one the red dragon made until the large brown dragon took the gold with an enormous splash. All while Spike looks down nervously before backing away from the ledge in fright.

“Thanks.” Bunga said to the cheetah stopping him from making a huge mistake.

“What's wrong, Spike? You afraid the lava will hurt your soft pony hide?” The red dragon mocked and goaded with the others laughing along with him.

It took courage for Spike to step back forward to the ledge, but after a small gulp and clasping of his hands pleading for good luck he leaped into the pit and smacked face first into the lava before sinking.

“Oooh...” The dragons all winced at the sight.

“Ugh... was I... that bad?” Spike responded while emerging his head up. Thankfully, he’s okay without a hint of damage.

“No, dude, that was awesome!” The red dragon voiced otherwise now genuinely impressed. “No pony could live through a belly flop like that! You're one tough little dragon.“

All of the teenage dragons all cheered for him now taking a liking to him more to which Spike smiled that they are finally seeing each eye to eye.

After the event, the dragons all lined up dragons facing each in pairs while creating a straight path for Spike to walk forward towards the red dragon. When they were ready to start their ritual the black dragon blew his nose like a kazoo like sounding whistle before they all turned back and lifted their tails up so Spike can approach the red dragon.

“Spike, by belly flopping so hard, you have proven yourself worthy. I hereby dub you 'rookie dragon', and will now perform the initiation ritual.” He commended him by placing his tail on his shoulders in a knighting manner before rubbing the top of his head to which sparked a disheartened chill in Twilight’s mind upon seeing it from afar. “Now let’s party dragon style!” Everyone all cheered and roared in celebration while dancing and feasting on gems.

“Well, at least Spike has made some new friends.” Bunga said to the others to which Twilight and Kyoga shook their heads disapprovingly. “Along with getting to do something they all like together.”

“True, but they’re not quite a great influence on him.” Twilight responded still not warmed up to them at all.

“Why’s that?” Bunga wondered.

“Probably because their idea of fun is more on the delinquent side of rise the northern borders.” Kyoga answered while they continue to watch over Spike’s shoulders unseen.

“Indeed.” Rarity agreed. “These ruffians are a very bad influence on them.”

“What can we do?” Kion asked Twilight.

“All we can do is just watch without getting turned to dragon crisps.” Twilight responded with their only approach for the time being.

Sometime later the dragons were all relaxing on their backs after their celebration.

“Man, was that a great party.” Spike expressed in delight.

“Great? Huh, maybe by Ponyville standards. Stick with us, Spike.” He offerd while giving him a friendly jab on the shoulder. “We still got plenty to teach you about being a dragon.”

“I'm not going anywhere. The way I feel right now, I could hang out with you guys forever.” He told him to which surprised his Ponyville and Pride Lander friends.

“Forever?!” Everyone all exclaimed in a whisper.

“Spikey-wikey is going to stay with these awful dragons? Forever?” Rarity then gasped.

“Oh no, this is terrible!” Twilight commented in horror.

“I should've stopped him back at the library when I had the chance!” Rainbow expressed her regrets. “Oh, why did I have to mock him the other day.”

“No, Rainbow Dash, this is all my fault! I encouraged him to go!” Twilight quickly voiced she’s to blame for this.

“No!” Kion was having none of it. “None of us are to blame for this. Spike’s just been led astray with a bad crowd.”

“Exactly.” Kyoga agreed. “None of us could have foreseen this and if any of us did we wouldn’t all be here right now.”

“Yeah. It’s not any of you girl’s fault.” Bunga jumped in. “I mean Spike knows whose his real friends are. I mean there’s no way he would choose them over us.”

They all peered their heads from the rock they were hiding behind so they continue watching the red dragon converse with Spike.

“Y'know, Spike, I think you just might be ready for a real dragon raid.” He told Spike to which everyone all cheered in excitement for the next big activity he has in mind for everyone. “There's a nest full of phoenix eggs nearby, and we're gonna swipe 'em!”

Spike’s ears dropped upon hearing what dastardly deed he is proposing.

“Aren't you totally psyched to go on this raid?” The large brown dragon inquired while slapping him to the ground.

“Oh yeah, I'm excited. I mean, I'm psyched.” He quickly answered positively to their approval.

“Alright then. Let's fly!” The red dragon led the way while seemingly leaving Spike behind.

Seeing this as an opportunity Spike shouted after them. “Uh, sorry, guys! I guess I'll meet you back here at the crater! After the whole raid thing's over? We'll totally hang then!” The dragons still not ones to leave him behind have the brown dragon quickly scoop and whisk him away. “Whoahoa!”

“Oh no, they took Spike!” Rainbow exclaimed upon seeing this. “We've gotta go after them!”

Rainbow wasted no time flapping her wings to push the other girls into pursing him with Rarity screaming in response to being dragged along for the ride.

“Rainbow Dash, stop!“

“We can't fly!”

Kion and Twilight both exclaimed.

“And you're ruining my fabulous costume!” Rarity added.

“Seriously?” Fuli questioned the girl with a raised eyebrow. “Preserving a costume even in the heat of the moment is all you care about?”

“Hey, a girl’s gotta look the part as much as play the part.” Rarity defended while their Lion Guard friends were quick to intercept them before they run into the lava pit.

“I'm sorry, but we gotta help Spike!” Rainbow apologized.

“Well, we're just gonna have to hoof it!” Twilight voiced of what they can do before having her pony friends lead the way in the direction to where the teenagers are taking Spike.

Later in the night they have all arrived at the sight of where the phoenix eggs are placed in their nests on trees where they are all ready to enact their next act of delinquent fun together.

“Alright, Spike. Since you're our rookie dragon, you get to lure the parents away from the nest.” The lead dragon told Spike.

“Heh... lucky me...” Spike nervously chuckled with a forced smile.

“Well go on, then!” He ordered Spike to do as he was told.

“Hey, Mr. and Mrs. Phoenix! I was hoping I could have a word with you?” Spike called out to them. “Um, I'd, um, like to ask you some questions actually...”

“We haven't got all day, Spike!” The red dragon urged him to speed it up while handing him a pebble.

“Hey, you bird brains! Come and get me!” He mockingly told them while throwing a rock at them which left a bump on the father bird’s head which angered him and his wife into pursing him.

With this distraction it created an opening for the other dragons to raid their nest.

“What the...” The lead dragon commented upon seeing the nest filled with small live phoenix chicks.

“The eggs have hatched.” The purple dragon commented.

“What do we do now?” The brown dragon asked.

“We take the hatchlings, of course!” The red dragon declared who all quickly flew away before he could grab them. Luckily, the newborns were smart and capable of fending for themselves by outsmarting the leader of the gang by tricking him into twisting and turning himself up before blowing raspberries at him and flying away. “Get 'em!”

The terrible trio all pursed the hatchlings which caught their parents attention who quickly dropped their pursuit of Spike in favor of protecting their children. They released fire in their direction just before the red dragon could snap his jaws onto them leaving him with soot on his face.

“Ohh... get them!” The red dragon again ordered while trying to double down their efforts into catching the family which is met with the father releasing a bright blinding light that caused to crash into a tree. “Nnngh, they got away! I hate that!” He growled when they crashed into the ground when their tree fell down.

During the scene, there was one egg left in their nest which no one noticed during the chase with Spike being the only one who spotted it upon returning to their deserted nest.

“Huh, what have we got here?” Spike wondered while picking up the sole orange egg with yellow colored flames left behind just when the teenagers regrouped with him. “What happened?”

“They got away!” He answered before seeing the egg in his claws. “Hey! You stole an egg?”

“Uh...”

“Well, I guess the raid wasn't a total waste after all.” The red dragon then praised along with the other two teenagers while giving him a slap on the back. “Nice going, Spike.”

“Well, what are you waiting for, Spike?” The brown dragon encouraged the baby dragon. “Smash it!”

“Smash the egg?”

“Yeah!”

“Yeah, throw it on the ground as hard as you can!” The purple dragon also encouraged.

“Smash it! Smash it! Smash it! Smash it! Smash it!” They all chanted and goaded him into doing it while Spike sweats and struggles with a tough decision and wondering if doing it is really worth making new friends.

It was clearly a tough decision for the young dragon and he was tearing up but in the end he made his decision. The right one.

“No! It's just a defenseless egg, like I was! And I'm not gonna let you hurt it!” Spike asserted.

“What did you say?” The red dragon angrily asked.

“I said no.” He repeated which did not sit well with the gang leader.

“No one says no to me.” He threatened causing Spike to back away seeing that he is now really in trouble…

…at least before his friends that have followed him all the way out here spring off their disguise and leap to his defense.

“Nopony's gonna lay a claw on him!” Rainbow exclaimed while holding her hooves up ready to tussle while Twilight, Rarity, and Bunga do the same with the others getting into fighting stances ready to pounce on the bullies.

“That's right!”

“Leave him alone!”

“Back off!”

“Don’t even think about it!”

Twilight, Kion, Fuli, and Kyoga added while the lions and cheetah all bare their claws.

“Fighting's not really my thing, I'm more into fashion…” Rarity said while flipping her hair. “…but I'll rip you to pieces if you touch one scale on his cute little head!” She finished aggressively.

The dragons all laughed in response to Spike’s backup.

“Ooh, scary, hehe! Spike, are these namby-pamby ponies and kitties your friends?” The red dragon mockingly asked.

“Yes, they are.” He firmly answered. “And they're better friends than you could ever be. Now, if you don't back off, you'll see what us ponies, lions, and honey badgers do when confronted by a huge group of jerky dragons.”

“Oh, yeah?” The red dragon snorted. “What's that?”

“This.” Fuli answered while quickly charging ahead towards him. “Huwezi!”

“Whoa!” The dragon exclaimed upon being tackled. “Hey! Get off of me!”

Before his two buddies could help him out they were suddenly tackled and pinned down by both Kion and Bunga with Twilight and Rarity following after them with punches from their fore hoofs. The dragons all got up on their feet and tried to fight back but of course their opponents were much smarter than them. Every punch they tried to throw at them they miss and leave themselves vulnerable to the other’s attacks from punches and kicks at every angle. By the end of the fight the three were all left piled up in defeat.

“But how…?” The red dragon mumbled in defeat just as Spike approaches him.

“Because these guys and girls are the Lion and Pony Guard. That’s why.” Spike told them while knocking him out with a single punch to the face.

Once the fight was over, Twilight gathered everyone together for a quick teleportation back to Ponyville.

“Phew, that was a close one.” Spike said in grateful relief. “Thanks, you guys.”

“Of course. What are friends for?” Twilight thought nothing of it.

“It’s all part of our job.” Kion added.

“It’s the least we could do for embarrassing you the other day, Spike.” Rarity added apologetically.

“Yeah…” Bunga agreed. “…can you forgive us for being mean friends?”

“Of course, you're more than friends. You're my family.” Spike told them with heartwarming tears in his eyes to which everyone all shared a group hug with him.

“Aww.” Bunga remarked feeling touched by the compliment. “So many brothers and sisters to thank for this.”

Everyone all chuckled before they went back home to which Spike took the time to write about the friendship lesson he learned along the way.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Seeing the great dragon migration made me wonder what it meant to be a dragon. But now I realize that who I am is not the same as what I am. I may have been born a dragon, but Equestria, the Pride Lands, and my pony and Lion Guard friends have taught me how to be kind, loyal, and true! I'm proud to call Ponyville my home, and to have my pony friends as my family.

Yours truly,

Spike”

In the following days, the phoenix egg Spike carried with him to Ponyville hatched with a newborn phoenix emerging from the shell. Since his family whereabouts are still far into the Dragon Lands, Spike had decided to raise and watch after him until his family comes over to retrieve him. Hopefully by then the phoenix’s parents will have come to forgive him for joining in on the bully’s harassment of them that day and will thank him for taking care of one of their own.

“Aww.” Spike chuckled while nuzzling him. “Hey, welcome to the family, Peewee! Stick with me. I've got plenty to teach you about being a pony?”

Author's Note

For this episode, it required some touch ups and some fixing but overall it was doable starting with having Fluttershy join in on the dragon migration along with Ono while re-writing of how it plays out. Next is downplaying the insensitivity the Mane Six showed to Spike down to Rainbow, Bunga, and Rarity rather than include the entire mane cast.

Aside from that everything else was straightforward with what happens in this episode centered on Spike trying to find himself yet is encouraged into participating in activities fit for tough bully dragons up until he is coerced into participating in an egg raid along with smashing an egg.

In the end, Spike's good conscious along with most of the Guard being there to take the bullies down saves him from making the biggest mistake of his life with a very valuable friendship lesson learned out of it.

Next up is "Hurricane Fluttershy." where her and Ono's help is needed in helping the peagsus team deliver enough wing power in supplying water to Cloudsdale.

Episode 32: Hurricane Fluttershy

Episode 32:

Hurricane Fluttershy

One day, Rainbow Dash is handing out fliers to every Peagsus pony in Ponyville for a mandatory meeting at the library later tonight. With Fuli and Ono’s help she was able to get every pony with wings together for an important cause. Even Fluttershy who is the only one making an active effort in trying to avoid coming to it.

But regardless all three of her friends weren’t going to let her miss out on it if it means her needs are vital with what Rainbow Dash wants from every peagsus pony. Once every pony was here and accounted for Rainbow Dash began a film presentation for every pony to watch. A film that consisted of choppy drawing so every pony would understand it.

“Every living thing depends on the life-giving nourishment of rainwater, and it is up to Cloudsdale to provide rain-filled clouds to every corner of Equestria. But how, one pony might ask, does Cloudsdale gather all this extra water? Tornado power! That's right, Pegasi-driven tornado power. A team of Pegasi combine their wing power to create a jumbo tornado, powerful enough to pull water out of the local reservoir and funnel it all the way up to Cloudsdale. Remember, Pegasi, your jumbo tornado must reach a minimum of eight hundred wing power to lift that water up to Cloudsdale. So, the next time you're wondering "Where does all that extra rainwater come from?", just remem–“

And that was all the film they got before it suffered a malfunction caused by Spike accidentally. Regardless, Rainbow decides they’ve seen enough to get the message before giving the big speech herself.

“So, here's the scoop.” Rainbow began with her hoofs behind her back. “Cloudsdale has chosen our own highland reservoir as a source of the rainwater they need for all of Equestria. And you know what that means. It means it's up to Ponyville's Pegasi to bring that water up to Cloudsdale.”

Every pegsai (with the exception of Fluttershy) along with Fuli and Ono watching the meeting were both expressed intrest from the crowd.

“Not only that, but Spitfire, captain of the Wonderbolts, will be here to oversee the water transfer and record our top tornado windspeed.” She continued with a poster of said pony along with two more pictures with charts.

“Now last year, Fillydelphia broke the windspeed record with a top speed of nine hundred and ten wing power. But I think we can do better. I think we can get a top speed over a thousand!” Every pony kept getting more and more pumped up with the sole expection of Fluttershy still looking uncomfortable. “...if each and every pony trains, and trains hard to get their wing power numbers up.”

Suddenly, Rainbow hears coughing from the back. “That coughing better be from a popcorn kernel, Thunderlane. Nopony's getting sick on my watch.” She quickly addressed said pony before further addressing the crowd. “So, are we gonna train hard?”

“Yeah!” Everyone all cheered while Fluttershy lowers herself to the ground clearly frightened by the cheering.

“Are we gonna be strong?”

“Yeah!”

“Are we gonna be fast?”

“Yeah!”

“Record-smashing fast?” She yelled in Bulk Biceps face.

“YEAH!”

“Who's with me?”

“Woo-hoo!”

Just as everyone was cheering for Rainbow’s speech she noticed that Fluttershy had slipped away during the crowd’s cheering.

The next day, Rainbow donned her coaching hat and then watched over every pony exercise in preparation for their big day at the track by stretching, running, and lifting weights with both Fuli and Ono watching over them. The first three ponies she passed by were stretching with the third one stuck in a stretch.

“Stretch those glutes, Flitter! Nice flexibility, Cloud Chaser. A... little too much flexibility, Blossomforth. Uh, somepony give Blossomforth a hoof.” She told every pony one by one. “Let's see some faster trotting, Thunderlane! Good pace, Silverspeed!” She told the ponies running before blowing her whistle. “Keep it up! We're gonna need all the wing power we can get to break that record!”

“YEAH!” Bulk Biceps shouted.

“Good work, everypony!” She complimented everyone before muttering under her breath. ”Everypony except Fluttershy.”

Ono then flew over to Rainbow Dash to report of her whereabouts. “Ono, where is she?”

“Back at her cottage.” He reported.

“Figures.” Rainbow responded to herself before addressing Ono. “Let’s go. Fuli, keep watch over everybody until we get back.”

“On it.” Fuli nodded while turning to the ponies training and working. “Come on! You got this! Let’s go!”

Even with the importance of the big day, Fluttershy is still trying to get out of participating in this big event with Rainbow and Ono back on over to the cottage to get her to join them.

“Fluttershy? I know you're in there!” Rainbow yelled out to her while knocking on her door. “You're avoiding tornado duty and I want to know why! Fluttershy, open–“

She immediately opened the door wearing her robe and having red spots appear on her fur coat.

“Hi, Rainbow Dash. Hi, Ono.” Fluttershy greeted with a weak sneeze and cough to which both Rainbow and Ono share a knowing nod before turning back to the girl.

“Fluttershy, what happened to you?” Ono asked with a quirked brow.

“Oh, I…” Fluttershy greeted with a sniff and cough. “I think I have…” She coughed again. “ the pony pox. I'm sorry. I really, really wanted to come to training day today…“ She coughed. ”but this pony pox has really knocked me for a loop. Achoo.” And coughed again.

“Oh, you poor thing. You know, there's only one cure for pony pox.” Rainbow said pretend sympathy while she and Ono walk inside.

“I know, plenty of bed–“ Fluttershy began before being suddenly drenched with a bucket of water courtesy of Rainbow Dash revealing the pony pox is just colored spots.

“Cold water! Those pony pox are clearing right up.”

Seeing that Rainbow and Ono didn’t fall for it, she moved to back up while thinking of another quick escape attempt.

“Oh, y'know, all of a sudden, I'm, I'm starting to feel better.” She responded with a nervous laugh. “I'll just get out of these robes and...” She pretended to trip and fall on her wing. “…ow! Oh, my wing, oh, ow, it's hurt. I guess I can't fly after all–“

Not fooled for a second, Rainbow Dash blows her whistle which frightens her to jump and float in the sky, quickly exposing her attempted lie.

“Messed up wing, huh?” Ono inquired while shaking his head in response to the embarrassed grinning peagsus’s shrug now cornered. “Very convincing.”

“Stop horsing around, Fluttershy. We've got a lot of training to do.” Rainbow told her who floated back to the ground while lowering her head in defeat and shame. “Come on now, what's going on?” She then gently asked while wrapping a hoof around her shoulder.

“Well, y'see, uh, well...” She hesitatingly started before confessing while lowering herself to her friend’s hooves. “…oh, Rainbow Dash, I just can't do it! I can't fly!”

“What are you talking about?” Rainbow asked while flying up. “Just last week you went into that wicked nose dive to save that falling baby bird right before it hit the ground!”

“But that was different, that was an emergency! This whole tornado thing, it's more like a performance, and you know how I hate performing in front of others. Don't you remember flight camp? I couldn't gallop hard or fly fast, not with everypony looking at me!”

“It wasn't that bad.” Rainbow tried to downplay it while Ono wanted to know what happened back then.

“You're right, Rainbow Dash, it wasn't bad. It was horrible!”

“Forgive me for inserting my beak in here…” Ono politely interrupted. “But I’m not quite following here. What happened at flight camp?”

“It’s not a story Fluttershy likes to talk about for obvious reasons.” Rainbow explained while recalling the memory of her and Fluttershy at flight camp. “Shortly after we got our cutie marks we attended flight school. While I of course did well, Fluttershy however got cold hoofs when it was her turn to fly.”

“But didn’t she have you or the teacher?” Ono asked.

“Not exactly.” Rainbow answered while recalling the memory of their teacher pushing Fluttershy off of the cloud. “Our teacher wasn’t very supportive along with the other pegsai.”

“The other foals used to tease me, a lot!” Fluttershy recalled the painful memory of everyone but Rainbow laughing at her for freezing up during takeoff.

“Fluttershy, Fluttershy, Fluttershy can hardly fly!” The foals back then taunted to which she desperately covered her hooves in respone with the present day Fluttershy still cringing at the memory.

“Hapana.” Ono quietly voiced in sympathy for the poor girl. “I’m so sorry to hear that.”

“I just can't risk that sort of humiliation again.” Fluttershy pleaded with her hooves wrapped around Rainbow not to put in that traumatizing position.

“Look…” Rainbow sighed while trying to be calm about this. “…I know this is worrying you… but confidence or no confidence, I'm gonna need every Pegasus to break the record, including you. I need every ounce of wing power I can get.”

“Oh, I-I don't think so, Rainbow Dash...” Fluttershy still isn’t up for it to which Rainbow decided it was best to cut her losses while she can.

“Thanks anyway.” She sighed before flying over to the door to which Fluttershy looked aside now having second thoughts not wanting to let her friend down.

“Wait. I'll do it.” Fluttershy spoke up to her.

“You will?”

Both Rainbow and Ono questioned.

“I will.” She answered with a small smile.

“You sure?” Ono again asked reminding her she has a choice. “Because you really don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.”

“I’m sure.”

“You're game?” Rainbow eagerly asked.

“I'm game.” Fluttershy cemented her decision to which Rainbow quickly scooped her up in a hug with flying around the room.

“Alright!” She cheered with Fluttershy still sporting an uneasy expression even though she can’t find it in her heart to turn her best friend away.

“Okay…” Ono responded with a sigh. “…then let’s do this.”

Even though he accepts her decision, he can’t help but feel that Fluttershy is still mentally not ready to go through with it like she claims.

Back at the track where everyone is waiting for Rainbow Dash when Twilight and Spike arrive to oversee the training and to record every pony’s speed and wing strength.

“What exactly does this machine do?” The indigo coated pony with a light blue mane asked upon seeing the device Twilight is spinning and testing to make sure it is working.

“This is an anemometer. It measures your accelerative velocity and translates it into wing power, thus gauging your cumulative H2O anti-gravitational potential.“ She explained. “Any other questions?”

“Yeah.” The pony with a pink bowtie asked more directed to Spike just as Fuli approaches. “What exactly does this machine do?” She asked either of them confused by Twilight’s explanation.

“It tells you how fast you're flying and how strong your wings are.” Spike answered.

“Ohhh…okay…I see…” Everyone all responded now getting it while Twilight frowned thinking it should have been understandable while Fuli gives Twilight an apologetic look.

Before Fuli could say anything they heard coughing nearby.

“Is that you again, Thunderlane?” Twilight poked her head up from the crowd with a can of anti-germ spray levitated in his direction. “Please, we need to have a germ-free environment.”

“It wasn't me, it was Blossomforth.” He argued turning to the white coated pony in front of him.

“No excuses.” Fuli sternly frowned at him while preparing to approach to force him to sit out of team practice until Rainbow flew right in front of her.

“Don't worry, Twilight, Fuli.” Rainbow asserted with crossed forearms that it won’t be necessary. “Thunderlane's just cooking up an excuse to spend tornado day in bed. Why don't you get over here and be our first test flyer, Thunderlane?”

Said pony casted a glare at the giggling mare before heading on over to the starting line while releasing a secret aside cough to which both Fuli and Ono noticed.

Thunderlane got his wings flapping and ready in full gear before sprinting down the stretch past the anemometer, causing to spin with the wind. Both Twilight and Ono analyzed the reading from the gauge once the anemometer stopped.

“We have 9.3 wing power.” Ono reported which is met praise from the other ponies to which both Rainbow and Fuli shrugged at the sight with a smile. Sure it’s good, but they themselves can attest that they have seen faster speeds than that.

“Not bad, not bad. “ Rainbow commented before she herself takes her turn at the starting line.

She cracked and stretched her joint in her body to prepare herself. Once she was ready to go she flew off ahead and performed the sprint leaving her coaching hat and whistle behind. The gust of wind she produced was so powerful it nearly blowing everyone’s manes and fur while literally sending Fluttershy flying off of her hoofs while Ono ended up blown away too. Fuli had to dig her claws into the ground to secure herself in place.

“16.5 wing power!“ Twilight reported with her mane slightly disheveled. On the bright side, it wasn’t because she went crazy in head again.

Everyone all cheered and applauded the fastest of the fastest before she offers more words of inspiration for them.

“Now listen up! If each of you can get your numbers up to at least 10.0 wing power by the end of the week, we'll no doubt set a new tornado speed record. We'll be number one!”

Everyone all cheered and all flew off to get started on stepping up their game with Fluttershy still lowered to the ground and wracked with self-doubt.

Every pony got training and then stepped up the line one by one so they can have their wing speed recorded. With Fuli’s help coaching and Twilight, Ono, and Spike’s help recording and analyzing data, things are shaping up in Rainbow’s favor with the results that they were producing.

Every pony had their wing power and speed tested out on the track. All but one.

“Fluttershy, your turn.” Rainbow called for her while blowing her whistle who does so reluctantly and still uneasy as the ponies nearby walk over to watch to see what she can do with eager smiles. After taking a deep breath to gather the courage to start flapping her wings she took off.

She flew at a brisk pace at smiling that she is so far pulling this off…

…until the two ponies who questioned the anemometer earlier had the nerve to laugh at her to which sparked her traumatic experience from flight camp and clamped down on her speed just before passing by the anemometer. Fuli catching this quickly gave shot them stern looks to knock it off who both look away pretending they did nothing wrong.

“Fluttershy, Fluttershy, Fluttershy can hardly fly...” The foals in the past’s voices rang through her head as she slowly coasted by the anemometer.

Both Twilight and Ono examined the speed it recorded who both raise a hoof and wing to their mouths.

“Hapana!” Ono softy exclaimed unable to have the heart to say a word about it.

“Tell her!” Twilight urged Rainbow in a hushed tone.

“No, you tell her!” Rainbow argued back in a hush.

“No, you!” She argued back until they saw Fluttershy eagerly smiling ready to hear how well she did.

Reluctantly, Rainbow decides to tell her in the most supportive way as she can. ““Um... great job, Fluttershy! You measured, uh, uh, .5.” Fluttershy smiled hearing this while her friends put up forced smiles to ensure that she did well to avoid telling breaking her spirit.

“Very nice work.” Ono added. “We just need to keep working on that.”

“Really?” Fluttershy asked with a smile that butters the egret’s eyes up with guilt.

“Of course.” Ono repeated while nodding at Rainbow who blew her whistle at the other ponies so they all can keep practicing.

While Rainbow was busy dealing with them, Ono took the time to fly over to Fluttershy for a quick word.

“Everything okay?” He asked.

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?” She positively answered.

“Well…” Ono began while hesitating a little. “…when you were flying just now you had a faster speed up until you reached the anemometer.”

“Oh.” Fluttershy voiced slight surprise hearing this hoping no one would have noticed.

“You’re not still dreading over what happened back then are you?”

“Yes.” She sadly confessed with her head lowered in shame while starting to tear up.

“I see.” Ono responded while offering her a tissue to which she kindly accepted. “It’ll be okay. You just gotta to try to not let the past take control of you.”

“I tried, but you should've seen those ponies laughing at me...and I know it's important to have confidence in myself...”

“And remember how scared your critter friends were when they had to cross that big river?”

“The river was swelling...and they were scared...”

“Yes, all through that you told them never to give up, just like I’m telling you to be more assertive as much as you tried to teach me how to still be as kind as the next egret.” Ono added and reminded. “You got this Fluttershy. Just believe in yourself.”

“You're right, Ono.” Fluttershy agreed. “I shouldn't give up. I will get my confidence up and show everypony that I am a good flyer! A great flyer!” She vowed while flying up to the nearby tree ready to start training with the other ponies.

She decided to practice on her own with Ono coaching her and assist from her critter friends. She put on her workout gear wearing white and red sweatbands on her forehead and legs before starting off by trotting in place.

Ono wearing a coaching hat of his own blew his whistle with Fluttershy flying ahead. To mentally prepare her some of the critters wore masks that remind her of the ponies who laughed at her in the past which caused her to lose her concentration and crash into a tree she didn’t see until too late.

After helping her out of the tree, Fluttershy then did push-ups with her wings with only a mouse on her back. Once again she faltered and buried her face when her critter friends all pulled out their masks again.

Moving on to tug-of-war where she goes up against a butterfly which again had similar results and ended up falling into the mud as a result. Even so, Ono was only focused on pushing Fluttershy on what she can do before giving her more motivation to keep her going until she could perform these exercises even with past faces looking at her.

She greatly improved through the day and by then she performed her exercises flawlessly. She perform wing push-ups to the point she could carry three critters on her back and fight back tears attempting to fall from her eyes. She is now able to take on and win a tug-of-war against a whole flock of butterflies while sending them flying into the tree behind her. Accidentally of course. And flew by a field of dandelions while blowing them all away.

Everyone cheered for her while Fluttershy herself smiled in delight with the great improvement she has shown.

She is ready.

Meanwhile back at the track the next day, everyone is now having their wing speed recorded to see what improvement has been made and the training is paying off with considering the improved results that have been recorded during the time trials.

“That's wonderful, Flitter. Much better than yesterday.” Twilight complimented the mare while Rainbow continues to look more and more pleased with their progress.

“This is crazy awesome! We're gonna smash that record!” Rainbow stated with a pumped fist when a squirrel arrives getting their attention to tell them something.

“What did he say?” Spike asked.

“Do I look like I speak squirrel?” Twilight returned with a raised eyebrow at his direction.

“Don’t look at me.” Fuli added. “I’m not Bubbles. I don’t sound like her.”

“What's that?” Spike asked upon seeing someone approach them.

It’s a confident Fluttershy flying back other with Ono and the critters following by her side.

“Okay. All right.” Fuli commented very pleased to see this newfound confidence in her as she prepares to take another shot at a sprint.

Once her critter friends prepped up her at the start line, she started flapping her wings and flew across the straightway and past the anemometer producing a strong wind.

All her friends were impressed with her improvement. If only the anemometer could say what she was thinking of what she approached Twilight to look at how she did.

“2.3? 2.3?! That has to be some kind of mistake! I worked so hard!” Fluttershy voiced unbelieving that was all she managed.

“Fluttershy, that's a huge improvement!” Twilight told her.

“Better than any pony here on the track.” Fuli added.

“Yeah, don’t let it get to you.” Ono reminded.

“You did awesome, Fluttershy.” Rainbow added with a pat on the back but it wasn’t enough to stop Fluttershy from tearing up.

“No, I didn't.” She said as she backed up. “I thought I'd gotten over my nerves, but they still got the best of me! There's no way I'll fly with 10.0 wing power tomorrow!”

“So you won't fly with 10.0 wing power. Every bit counts!” Rainbow tried to assure her it wouldn’t be a big deal.

“How would you feel if everypony else was flying with 10.0 wing power and you were flying with 2.5?” Fluttershy retorted with a glare at her direction

“Well, uh... I'd feel... um...” Rainbow said rather speechless while taking off her sports cap and fiddling around with it not sure of what to say.

“Exactly! Humiliated!” She stated before turning away and speaking between sobs again. “I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash, I just can't do it!”

“Fluttershy, wait!” Ono shouted after her along with her critter friends.

“If only there was a way to lift Fluttershy out of the dumps.” Rainbow said with a sigh while Twilight, Fuli, and Spike all don’t know what to say.

Hopefully, she will come around for them when it counts.

The next day, every pony got lined up in preparation for the big day. Spitfire herself, Rainbow’s idol, flew down from Cloudsdale to oversee the water transfer which is met with a round of applause from everyone seeing her smile and wave to everyone.

“Are we ready to do this?” Rainbow called out to every pony who all cheered along with Twilight and Fuli who gave cheers of encouragement…

“Yeah!”

Just when Rainbow flew back down to the ground and before she could blew her whistle again Spike had something to report to her.

“Look!” Spike showed her the attendance checklist with Thunderlane’s image with an “X” instead of a check mark on it.

“Lazy Thunderlane! Where is he?!” Rainbow grumbled. “He's been trying to get out of tornado duty the whole time with his fake coughing and all.” He then poked his head towards the line and spotted a smaller pony that had a similar mane style to the pony. “Rumble, where's your lazy brother?”

“He's got the feather flu. He's down at Ponyville Hospital.” He answered.

“But he's not the only one.” Spike pointed out while showing Rainbow that there are seven more ponies (not including Fluttershy) unaccounted in today’s attendance while left Rainbow worried while Twilight does some recalculations with an abacus.

“Let's see, with those eight sick Pegasi out with the feather flu... “ She examined before gasping at something. “Oh no!”

“Don't tell me we won't be able to break the windspeed record?” Rainbow pleaded.

“No...” She answered.

“Phew!” Rainbow sighed in relief but the unicorn wasn’t done there since there was more and it was not what she wanted to hear.

“...You might not have enough wing power to create a tornado powerful enough to lift the water to Cloudsdale!”

“Well, should we pack up?” Spike asked Rainbow who looks on every pony who came here for this along with Spitfire who is starting to look at her watch.

She thought about and decided to still press forward even if their shot at the record is diminished. She can’t let everyone who gathered here today done.

“No. Of course not. Forget the record. Cloudsdale still needs water!” She decided before putting on her goggles and lead the team while the others watching over get everything ready. “Okay, everypony! Let's give it all we've got!” All of the ponies smiled while donning their goggles. “On the sound of the horn, we take off!”

Both Twilight and Fuli check the anemometer to make sure it is ready and reading 0.0, once she made sure of it, Twilight tapped on the anemometer while Fuli nods her head to signal to Rainbow Dash they are ready to go.

Spike takes a deep breath and blows into the horn to give the starting signal to start working and creating the tornado to spin the anemometer.

“You think they're gonna make it to eight hundred wing power?” Spike asked Twilight.

“I sure hope so!” Twilight responded before checking up on the meter reading. “One hundred and fifty wing power. Two hundred and fifty wing power. Five hundred wing power!”

So far so good with the water starting to lift from the ground

“Seven hundred and fifty wing power!”

Things were looking promising while Spike digs his claws into the anemometer for dear life from the tornado’s power just when Fluttershy arrives along with Ono hanging onto her mane.

“Twilight!”

“Fluttershy! What are you doing here?!”

“I figured... if I couldn't help Rainbow Dash with the tornado... the least I could do was offer moral support!” She answered while pushing herself closer to the unicorn and cheetah on her front hooves and dodging a tree hurled in her direction.

“She could sure use it, considering eight Pegasi are sick with the feather flu!” She told her while everyone moves to hang onto the anemometer.

“Oh no! That's terrible news!”

“Sure is.” Fuli shouted. “We can only hope that they have enough to do the job.”

“Come on, you’re almost there!” Ono shouted after them as more water was lifted from the ground.

Unfortunately, one of the ponies ended up dropping from the pace when he got tired and ended up triggering a chain reaction of ponies crashing into each other. And just like that every pony scattered, the water plopped back to the pond, and the tornado dissipated with Rainbow crashing face first in the tree.

“Ouch.” Fuli winced at the sight. “She’s sure going to feel that in the morning.”

“Are you okay?” Twilight asked while she and her friends rush over to her.

“I'm fine!” She answered while trying to pull her head out of the tree.

“Oh, you were so close to the eight hundred wing power minimum!” Twilight told her while getting a good read at the fastest wing power recorded. “I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash.”

“We've got to try again!” Rainbow exclaimed not about to quit there ready to regroup with the team only to be pulled down to the ground by Twilight’s magic.

“But you've pushed your crew to their limit already!” Twilight pointed out to the still recovering ponies. “If you break apart again, somepony could get hurt! You should quit, it's not safe!”

“No!” Rainbow refused to listen while slapping Twilight’s hoof away. “One more time! I've gotta know we gave it our all! If I'm going down, I'm going down flying!”

“But Rainbow…” Ono tried to reason with her to no avail.

“C'mon, ponies, let's make this happen!” Rainbow barked at every pony who all cheered still wanting to try again.

“Okay…” Twilight accepted her decision even though she still doesn’t like the risk Rainbow is putting every pony through.

“…Here we go!” Fuli told everyone so they can try again.

Once everything was reset, Twilight and Fuli gave the signal to Rainbow again.

“Ready!” Fuli shouted with a raised paw with Spike blowing the horn so every pony can try to power the tornado again.

Every pony flies the fastest they can do while recreating the tornado and gathering together wind power.

“Okay, here we go...” Twilight said while reading the climbing meter read. “…One hundred wing power! Two hundred! Five hundred!”

“Stay in position! Flap those wings! Faster!” Rainbow barked to every pony leading the charge.

“Come on! Work those wings!” Fuli also shouted from the ground to further motivate the fliers.

“Seven hundred! Seven hundred and fifty wing power!”

While the tornado is so far building back up from the first attempt, it’s still narrowing down to a close call.

Fluttershy holding onto Ono ended up crashing into Spike by accident onto the anemometer.

“They fell apart right after this!” Spike shouted.

“Oh, I'm too nervous to look!” Fluttershy exclaimed while covering her eyes.

“C'mon! Just a little harder! I can see the water trying to funnel through!” Rainbow further shouted to every pony to keep pushing.

“Seven ninety five!” Twilight reported while eyeing the anemometer nearing 800. “We are so close!”

“Fluttershy, they need you up there!” Ono told Fluttershy to join them.

“I won't make a difference!” Fluttershy responded with her hooves still buried in her face.

“You can make a difference!” Twilight countered.

“My measly 2.3 wing power is still too little!”

“But you can still push them to reach that mark whether you match or wing power or not.” Fuli backed up Twilight’s comment.

“It's sticking at seven ninety five! I don't know if they've got any more in 'em!” Spike shouted after looking at the standstill reading of the meter while Fuli can only watch from the ground since she doesn’t have wings.

“Do it for Equestria! Do it for Rainbow Dash! Do it for yourself!” Twilight further encouraged Fluttershy who is still too nervous to step up.

Seeing that she needs some motivation, Ono grabs the goggles Twilight levitated for Fluttershy to put on.

“Ono, what are you doing?” Twilight asked.

“I’m going up there.” Ono stated before flying up and into the tornado.

“Ono! Are you crazy?!” Fuli shouted after him.

“Affirmative.” Ono responded while joining the flying ponies in the tornado.

“Ono!” Fluttershy exclaimed upon seeing this. “Hang on I’m coming!”

Fluttershy quickly took another pair Twilight levitated towards him before approaching the tornado herself. But not before placing Angel off of her shoulder who joined the others blown onto the tree they are all hanging on to.

She moved herself towards the tornado so it suck her up too. She spun around while yelping and trying to take control of her own flight. Ono spotted her upon seeing that she followed in after her.

“Come on, Fluttershy! Let’s do this!” Ono pressed forward to fly in the tornado along with the others with a smile. Fluttershy pleased to see he is okay followed suit while Rainbow did the same that she has two more flyers joining in on the final push while surprised by Ono’s decision to join them.

“It's moving! She's doing it! Seven ninety eight! She surpassed her best wing power number!” Twilight reported while reading the meter which is now increasing and inching towards 800. “We might actually have it now with Ono keeping pace with them!”

“How about that.” Fuli expressed amazement that both Fluttershy and Ono are in there and doing the job.

Fluttershy then sees the ponies beside her flying ahead which sparked the taunting voices in her head.

“Fluttershy, Fluttershy, Fluttershy can hardly fly!”

“Come on, Fluttershy!” Ono repeated. “Believe in yourself!”

Fluttershy nodded in response while sporting an determined expression before flying up and ahead alongside Ono.

“What was that?” One pony wondered.

“I think it was Fluttershy!” Another pony answered.

“And Ono.” Another pony added while they both worked their wings to their full potential and it just managed to help them reach the 800 wing power minimum needed to perform the job with some more thanks to Ono.

With the power of all those with wing power in the tornado, all of the water from the tornado got sucked up from the pond and into the tornado and then expelled all the way up to Cloudsdale into the giant transfer pot.

Spitfire lowered her goggles in surprise and completely awe-stricken of what she was seeing.

“She did it! She did it! They all did it!” Twilight celebrated with a group embrace with Spike and Fuli.

Once all of the water was transferred, Spike blew into the horn again to signal to everyone to stop flying and disassemble.

Everyone all cheered at their success with Rainbow joining them very proud herself before noticing that Fluttershy is still flying circles in the sky.

“Whoa, girl, take it easy!” Rainbow quickly stopped her while placing a cloud in front of her path

“Whuh, what? Did we do it?” She asked when Ono flies over to the two.

“We did.” He confirmed.

“Yeah, we did it! You did it!” Rainbow praised with a hug and then a high five with Fluttershy first and then with Ono. “And well done, Ono!”

“Eh, what can I say.” Ono humbly shrugged. “The girl needed some motivation and who better than an extra set of wings and eyes to guide her through it all.”

“Oh thank you.” Fluttershy happily thanked with a big tight hug before the three all lowered themselves to the ground.

“Great job, Fluttershy, that was awesome!”

“Yeah, you too Ono, we couldn't have done it without you.”

The two ponies that made fun of Fluttershy earlier praised them with Spitfire coming over to do the same for the team leader.

“Nice job, Rainbow Dash. You may not have set a new record, but you showed a lot of guts.” Spitfire commended while complimentary nudging her on her lowered goggles.

“Thanks…” Rainbow humbly returned. “…but if you wanna talk guts, then you've gotta give it to my number one fliers, Fluttershy and Ono!” She gestured to the proud egret and the pony shyly waving back while placing her mane to the side of her face again. “Let's hear it for Fluttershy and Ono!”

“Fluttershy! Ono! Fluttershy! Ono! Fluttershy and Ono can really fly!” Everyone all cheered for them while tossing them up and down in the air before they all followed Twilight, Fuli, Spike, Rainbow Dash, and Spitfire back into town for a celebration.

Along the way back into town with Spike playing a flute for celebratory music to lead the parade, Fluttershy thought of the friendship lesson she learned to report to the princess.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes you can feel like what you have to offer is too little to make a difference, but today, I learned that everypony's contribution is important, no matter how small. If you just keep your head high, do your best, and believe in yourself, anything can happen.”

While everyone all heads back into town with the sun setting, Scar himself having witnessed this from the magic of the palm of his claws from the top of the nearby mountain from afar watches on with a serious expression.

“Anything indeed…” Scar growled while thinking back to the memory of his past where he is charging ahead into the Outlands on his own with the same expression and growl.

The unscarred lion with the Mark of the Guard braved the face of danger before fighting off the entire clan of hyenas threatening his brother’s life who had him cornered in a dead end cave in the Elephant Graveyard. No matter what angle any hyena could try to take him down with, he is quick to counter-attack every move they all had.

From paws with swipes of his claws along with kicks to the faces and even when they attempted to attack him with dirty moves, Scar repaid them in kind with much more power and ferocity which left the hyenas battered and bruised before some of the hyenas still left standing fleeing the scene. But not before Scar uses the Roar of the Elders to send them along with the knocked out hyenas flying away deep into another part of the Outlands far from the Pride Lands border for good measure.

Scar after calming himself down turns to his astonished brother before helping him up on his paws just when the rest of his Guard arrive on the scene while barely dodging the path of Roar blasting the hyena clan away.

The two brothers share a heartwarming hug with the older lion patting him on the back for saving his life before heading back home to the Pride Lands with his Guard lifting and tossing him up into the air while following Mufusa where they plan to celebrate Scar’s heroism for his noble act of bravery and courage.

Scar is later cheered for by everyone in the Pride Lands when his father gives his son his dues before he steps up to the edge of Pride Rock looking every one over proudly. He returns everyone waves to thank them all while the rest of his family and friends watch on with very proud smiles for what he has done to protect his loved ones.

Back in the present, Scar’s still watches on with a frown similar to when his former hyena subordinates failed to kill Simba and Nala when they were cubs and are both being led away by his brother after saving him before turning away.

“And look where it got me now.” Scar voiced with a resentful and bitter tone while looking at an image of his currently scarred face and the shoulder that formerly held the Mark of the Guard. “But pretty soon that will all change when I finally get the respect I deserved all of those years ago.” He added with a determined expression before teleporting away.

Author's Note

In this episode Rainbow leads every peagsus pony into pursing the record for most wingpower in delivering water from Ponyville to Cloudsdale. Every pony is into it expect for Fluttershy due to her traumatic past at flight camp. And Twilight, Fuli, Spike are there to help them prepare the team of flyers for the big day.

Here it was Ono from trying to lift her spirits up along with encouraging her throuhg her training, before joining in the peagsus windpower push does Fluttershy gain the courage to help Rainbow and the team reach the 800 WP needed to make the water transfer when eight peagsus ponies are out sick due to the feather flu.

Crazy of Ono to do that? Yes. Brave? Yes. Determined to restore his friend's confidence? Absolutely?

Such praise near and far for both Fluttershy and Ono so powerful... it sparks a flashback from Scar back during his time as Leader of the Lion Guard charging through danger to take on an entire hyena clan to save his brother's life to which he was rewarded with a hero's welcome as well. Really hits close to home for him.

Question is what happened to Scar that turned him from one of the best protectors of the Pride Lands anyone could ask for to the Pride Lands #1 enemy we all know him for from the beginning.

The answer to that question will be answered later on in the story sometime in the future of this series.

Anyways, next up is "Ono's Idol." where Ono gets to meet Hadithi a famous bird known for his heroics throughout the Pride Lands along with Equestria... or at least many think he is...

Until then stay tuned...

Episode 33: Ono's Idol

Episode 33:

Ono's Idol

On a nice day in the Pride Lands, everything is going fine. Everyone is all helping themselves to grass while the young ones are having fun playing.

“Mtoto! Where'd you go? Mtoto?” A young brown rhino called out to him with Shakku beside him.

“Here I am!” The friendly elephant announced his presence while quickly spraying them with water.

“Okay, you got us!” He responded with a chuckle.

“Wait. Do you hear that?” Mtoto then asked with his ears perking up.

“I don't hear anything.” Shakku answered before everyone all turned their attention to the skies to confirm that Mtoto isn’t the only one who hears what he is hearing.

“Are those birds?” The young rhino asked.

“A lot of birds.” Shakku confirmed that there are. In fact almost every bird in the Pride Lands which is a rather unusual thing to occur.

“You don't think they're vultures, do you?” The young rhino whimpered fearing for the worst.

“Vultures?” Shakku hoped not.

“You know who we need right now?” Mtoto asked his friends.

“Lion Guard…”

“Pony Guard…”

“…this way!”

Both leaders of the Guard told their team while approaching the kids.

“Hi, Beshte! Hi, Applejack!” Mtoto greeted the strongest members of the Guard.

“Hey, Mtoto!”

“What’s up partner?”

They kindly returned.

“That's an un-Bunga-lievable bunch of birds!” Bunga commented.

“Yeah, there aren’t usually this many birds flying by at this time of the year…” Pinkie agreed. “…Unless of course it is the first day of spring?” She turned to Twilight and Fluttershy.

“Nope.” Twilight answered while both mares shook their heads. “That happened over a month ago. And if Fluttershy knew she would have already told you by now.”

“I wonder what's going on.” Fluttershy wondered.

“Good question, Fluttershy.” Kion responded before leading everyone on over to where the birds are all flying who all grouped together at a large clearing.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy gaped at the marvelous sight of birds in front of them. “I don’t think I've ever seen so many birds in one place.”

“Me neither.” Beshte also said.

“So what are they all doing here?” Fuli asked.

“I bet Ono could tell us.” Kion replied. “But I don't know where he is.”

“I'm right here!” He called out to everyone while perched on a rock near the front of the crowd. “I got us a spot right in front!”

“In front of what?” Fuli inquired.

“Let's find out.” Kion said while joining him with the team following after him.

“My, how very generous of you to get us all front row seats for this special guest you’re interested into.” Rarity thanked.

“I know.” Ono returned. “Can you believe he's really back? After all this time?”

“Who?” Pinkie asked.

“Hadithi!”

“Who-dithi?“ Bunga asked in confusion.

“Hadithi? The legendary eagle?” Ono was left dumbfounded that his friends don’t know him. “Every bird in the Pride Lands has heard of him!””

“Um, Ono, but we aren't birds!” Bunga responded to remind him

“Yeah, we’re ponies.” Pinkie added while pointing to each animal with them. “These two are lions, this girl’s a cheetah, and he’s a hippo. Common knowledge really.”

Everyone chuckled to which Ono rolled his eyes in annoyance before continuing of his fascination of this talented eagle.

“But you don't have to be a bird to have heard of Hadithi. Creator of the Hadithi Spin? Three mid-air loops and a corkscrew? I think. I've always wanted to ask Hadithi exactly how it goes. And now I can. If I can get up the nerve, that is. He's kind of my idol.”

“Really?” Rainbow asked sounding impressed and intrigued herself while Kyoga rolled her eyes. “That sounds like my type of flyer. I wonder if he could teach me that move?”

“He sounds Poa, Ono.” Beshte added when the egret lands on his back.

“Oh, he is. And smart.” Ono added. “They say whenever he speaks, nuggets of wisdom fall from his mouth.”

“Really? Is that so?” Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Pfft! Big deal.” Bunga scoffed while munching on a bug. “Nuggets fall outta my mouth all the time.”

“And they sure aren’t bright from the look of what I’ve seen.” Twilight remarked unimpressed while Rarity gags and resists the urge to throw up until Twilight hands her a paper bag to do so without even looking at her.

While Twilight pats Rarity on the back, all of the birds started squawking and chirping when the legendary eagle arrives on the scene and flies onto the top rock over every bird gathered here today.

He had brown feathers on his back and white feather on his underbelly, a black colored beak with some matching colored feathers on the tip of his wings and tail, and a tan colored muzzle.

“Greetings, my friends.” Hadithi greeted with a bow.

“Say something wise, Hadithi!” A black raven asked of him to which he does so without hesitation.

“The higher you fly, the more they'll look up to you.”

Every bird all awed at these words of wisdom including Ono. The Guard’s reactions were more neutral with Kyoga being the most unimpressed.

“"The higher you fly, the more they'll look up to you." That is so deep.” Ono voiced his amazement.

“Really?” Bunga asked. “Seems kind of obvious to me.”

“Really?” Kyoga sarcastically commented. “What gave that away?”

“Bunga, Kyoga, shh!” Fuli hushed them. “Ono really likes this guy!”

“Isn't he amazing?” Ono asked everyone not having heard what Bunga or Kyoga have said.

“Oh, yeah!” Kion agreed for his sake.

“He sure does have handsome feathers.” Rarity genuinely added.

“Hey, Ono. Let's ask him about his spin thingie.” Bunga suggested before quickly rushing over to him along with Pinkie who quickly rushed right up to him.

“Yoo-hoo, Mr. Eagle Bird!”

“Pinkie!” Ono quickly intercepted and chided unaware that the eagle is right behind him. “You can't just talk to Hadithi. He's the Raven Rescuer from Red Rocks. The Starling Savior at Summer Springs.”

“Don't forget the Guardian of the Great Egret Escape.” Hadithi nonchalantly added.

“Oh, I would never...” Ono began before realizing who he is talking to. “Uh, Pinkie, Bunga? Is Hadithi actually talking to me?”

“Indeed I am, young egret. You seem to know a lot about me.” He pleasantly greeted him.

“Oh, I do, Hadithi. Sir.” Ono nervously returned and cleared his throat. “In fact, I would have to say I'm your biggest fan?”

“My biggest fan?” Hadithi chuckled in amusement at this endearing admiration. “Are you sure, young egret? As you can see, I have many.”

Hadithi the Hero

“Thank you so much!” He thanked everyone before turning to the egret beside him. “You're the wind beneath my wings! But you may just be my biggest fan after all.”

“Perhaps.” Simba added while he and his wife along with the royal sisters approach him. “But don't forget. You have fans all over the Pride Lands.”

“And all over Equestria.” Princess Celestia added.

“King Simba. Queen Nala. Princess Celestia. Princess Luna. You honor me with your presence.” He humbly greeted with a bow.

“We're glad your travels have brought you back to the Pride Lands, Hadithi.” Nala warmly added.

“Indeed.” Luna agreed with the same reception. “Thou return has brought great joy all over the Savannah as well as the magical land of ponies in the very enchanted kingdom who have heard about your many adventurous feats.”

“Mom? Dad?”

“Princess Celestia? Princess Luna?”

“You've heard of Hadithi?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked them.

“Oh, yes. Hadithi is a hero to animals throughout the Pride Lands and Equestria.” Nala answered while her husband speaks to everyone.

“We all know, Hadithi is a bird who never thinks of himself. Especially when an animal and pony needs help. When a hero like Hadithi returns to the Pride Lands along with Equestria, it is important for us to mark the occasion.” He announced before turning to speak to the eagle directly. “And this is why we'd like to honor you at Pride Rock with a Royal Mud Print ceremony.”

“A Royal Mud Print ceremony? For me?” Hadithi felt honored by this announcement.

“A Royal Mud Print ceremony! Un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga cheered. “What's a Royal Mud Print ceremony?“ He then asked Kion.

“Hadithi will press his talons into wet mud!” Ono answered. “When it dries, his prints will be preserved forever alongside those of other heroes!”

“I've seen those prints!” Kion remembered. “But I've never seen the ceremony.”

“Well it sure is going to be a first for us all.” Applejack commented.

“Hmm. Normally I wouldn’t even dream of sticking my hoof in mud or cement but I’ll definitely be there.” Rarity spoke of her thoughts. “Now, I just need to think of a perfect dress for the occasion.”

“Well whatever it is, make sure you take great care of it.” Kyoga remarked rather dully. “Because you’ll be cementing a permanent mark on it if you’re not careful.”

“Oh of course, darling.” Rarity assured with a slight scoff. “Did you think I was born yesterday?”

“Nope.” She returned without a change of expression leaving the white unicorn slightly taken aback by her sudden cold bluntness.

“I can't think of anyone who deserves it more.” Ono said with a light chuckle.

“And as guest of honor, it is tradition that you share your great knowledge with a younger member of the Pride lands and Equestria.” Simba added.

“Now, who should it be?” The tall white alicorn gestured to everyone gathered.

“Dad, over here. Him! Him!

“Princess, her too!”

Both Kion and Twilight gestured to both Ono and Rainbow eagerly wanting to be those lucky picks.

“Ah, perhaps, young Ono.”

“And Rainbow Dash.”

“Me?”

Both Ono and Rainbow were astonished with the latter very eager to learn about his awesome flying trick.

“Very well. If that's your tradition.” Hadithi accepted the king and princess’s decision.

“Is there anything else you need?” Simba then asked before he, his wife, and the princesses leave him be.

“Oh, that's very kind of you, King Simba. But, I don't need much.” Hadithi humbly declined.

“Very well.”

“Although…” Hadithi had one thing on his mind. “…uh, speaking of tradition, as guest of honor, I assume that you'll be building me the traditional ceremonial nest?”

“The ceremonial nest? Hmm. I've never heard of that.” Simba replied.

“But we've also never had a mud print ceremony for an eagle before.” Celestia reminded.

“That's true. Birds do these things differently.” Simba acknowledged.

“The Lion and Pony Guard would be honored to build the traditional ceremonial nest!” Ono vouched his team for the job. “Uh... Wouldn't we?” He then asked both leaders to make sure it is okay with them.

“Uh... Sure. Honored.”

“Be more than happy to.”

They both answered.

“Then we shall see you at the clearing by Pride Rock just before sundown for the ceremony.” Simba stated before he and the other royal rulers all head out.

“Thank you, Lion and Pony Guard, for your kind offer.” Hadithi thanked them.

“Aw, shucks, it’s the least we could do for you.” Applejack thought nothing of it.

“What's a little favor among heroes?” Bunga added.

“I assume you know how to use the proper leaves for the nest.” The eagle then asked of them.

“The proper leaves?” Beshte inquired a little confused.

“In keeping with tradition, the ceremonial nest should be made of the leaves from the top of the tallest tree in the land.” He explained to which Kyoga returned an disgruntled growl out of earshot.

“Seriously?” Fuli asked just as disgruntled.

“Well, I don't just make up these traditions.” He asserted.

“It makes sense…” Ono responded in an understanding tone. “…the fronds at the top are the softest. Fit for a hero.”

“And that’s something that a hero sometimes deserves.” Rainbow agreed.

“Exactly, Ono, Rainbow Dash.” Hadithi felt pleased with his reasons. “Maybe you do know what you're talking about. You and Rainbow Dash.”

“Oh, uh, I do?” Ono again felt touched by that compliment.

“Heck yeah you do!” Rainbow quickly supported that claim.

“Of course, you both do.” Kion agreed with that assessment before turning back to the others And while Ono and Rainbow spend time with Hadithi, the rest of us can go get the special leaves. Right, guys?”

“Uh.”

“Maybe?”

“I guess.”

Fuli, Beshte, and Fluttershy voiced with uncertainty about carrying out this task.

“Sure we can!”

“Just point us to the tallest tree.”

Bunga and Pinkie eagerly voiced that they are more than willing to do so.

While Ono and Rainbow fly off with Hadithi, the others set out to find the leaves they need for the eagle’s special nest.

“It sure was nice of you two to let Ono and Rainbow stay with Hadithi.” Beshte said to both Kion and Twilight.

“Well, Ono seemed very eager to spend time with him and Rainbow really wanted to learn his special flying trick.” Twilight replied.

“Shouldn't we be doing more important things than fetching leaves from the tallest tree? For some eagle we've never heard of?” Fuli still voiced feeling this is a waste of time.

“Like coming to someone who needs rescuing?” Kyoga added taking the cheetah’s side on this.

“But my Dad's heard of him.” Kion responded with a chuckle.

“Along with the princesses.” Twilight added.

“Yeah! And he's Ono's biggest hero!” Beshte also joined in.

“I know this seems rather frustrating, darlings.” Rarity understood their frustration. “But surely one simple task can’t be that hard.”

“Especially when it is just wrestling up some leaves.” Applejack added finding it no big deal.

“Right. So let's go find that tallest tree.” Kion led the team on their search.

Meanwhile, Hadithi is at the waterfall, where he is repeating the same words of wisdom to the crowd of animals there consisting of storks, flamingos, and elephants. Literally.

“The higher you fly, the more they'll look up to you.” He said to everyone there who all awed in admiration just like the many birds earlier.

“That's all well and good for storks, but elephants don't fly.” One elephant there pointed out which visibly annoyed the eagle.

“I think what Hadithi is trying to say is, we all have challenges that require us to rise above ourselves. To become better than we are.” Ono quickly translated.

“The more you push yourself into excelling, the more you rise to the top of success.” Rainbow added.

“Ah. Thanks, Ono, Rainbow.” He now understood. “Wise words, Hadithi.”

“Indeed.”

Elsewhere, the Guard have reached what they think is the tallest tree in the Pride Lands.

“Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to leave Ono and Rainbow behind.” Kion voiced having second thoughts.

“It’s okay.” Twilight assured. “We still got Fluttershy.” She nodded at her who flew up to the top.

“And me. Zuka Zama!” Bunga added while jumping and climbing up the tree. “Whoo! A-ha! Whoa! You guys should come up. I can see everything from here!”

“Just get the leaves and come down!” Fuli irritably ordered.

“We don’t have all day!” Kyoga added in a similar manner.

“But it's the tallest tree in the Pride Lands.” Bunga pointed out.

“Um…Bunga…” Fluttershy tried to speak with him who is too busy looking at his surrondings.

“I can see Pride Rock. I can see Mekundu Cliffs.”

“Bunga!” She shouted.

“What?”

“Look?” She directed his attention to something she saw.

“Oh yeah, I can see the tallest tree in the Pride Lands.” He then realized. “Uh-oh.”

“Did he just say he could see the tallest tree in the Pride Lands?” Fuli asked the others.

“Yep.” Both Kion and Applejack said in unison while slightly annoyed.

“Let’s just go.” Twilight told everyone before heading out in that direction.

While continuing with the tour, Hadithi again repeats his words of wisdom to more Pride Landers to which now had Rainbow starting to feel it is starting to get a little more repetitive even if not everyone has heard the same words of wisdom.

“And everyone will look up to you.” Hadithi told the flock of egrets while perched on a high rock with Ono and Rainbow sitting by his side. “Thank you for coming, everyone. And don't forget my Royal Mud Print ceremony tonight at sundown.”

“Hadithi. Hadithi! Hadithi!” The crowd chanted while wanting to approach him before being quickly stopped by both Ono and Rainbow.

“Everyone! Back off!”

“Give Hadithi the respect he deserves!”

The two ordered of them which do so and fly away.

“Thank you, Ono, Rainbow.” Hadithi thanked. “It seems you both are naturals, too.”

“Aw, stop!” Rainbow shrugged it off while trying not to sound too flattered over it.

“I am? Me?” Ono felt more and more humbled before asking the question he had in mind. “In that case, do you think you could show me the Hadithi Spin?”

“Yeah me too?” Rainbow also asked. “I would really be honored if you show me this cool trick of yours.”

Hadithi behind their backs expressed sudden nervousness while shifting his eyes before turning around to answer to their request.

“Well, I'd rather not muss my feathers so close to the ceremony.” He politely declined. “Why don't you show me, and I'll tell you if you're doing it right.”

“Huh?” Rainbow voiced with slight surprise.

“Uh, okay! Great! Okay. I’ll go first.” Ono went along with it by flying up to the ledge of a high rock with Rainbow. “Here goes. Three mid-air loops and a corkscrew. Hadithi! You watching?”

“I sure am!” He quickly answered while turning back to them. “Give it all you got.”

“What?” Rainbow voiced his confusion again. “Okay.”

“One. Two. Three!” They both stated while doing the mid-air-loops together before performing the corkscrew.

Rainbow was able to perform the corkscrew no problem, Ono ended up tripping up on the third mid-air loop leading up to the corkscrew and ended up crashing into the ground.

“I, uh... I think possibly I forgot to compensate for the wind.” Ono said while picking himself off the ground.

“Yes!” Rainbow cheered for herself upon performing the technique flawlessly but saw that Hadithi wasn’t quite paying attention to him. “Hey!”

“Well, that's your mistake, the wind always compensates for me.” Hadithi confidently informed to which Ono felt a little upset by that. “Never mind. Try it again.”

“You'll see, Hadithi, this time I'll get it!”

“Just watch me!”

Both fliers voiced to them unaware that the eagle is looking on with a blank expression.

Back at Pride Rock, the Pride Landers are all starting to gather in preparation for the big ceremony. All the while Kyoga tries to restrain her disdain for the eagle but hasn’t explained why while the rest of the Guard arrives with the leaves for the special nest Hadithi requested.

“Almost there, little B.” Beshte told Bunga who accidentally tripped over a rock.

“Ah! I got an idea. How about we put the ceremonial nest right here?” Bunga suggested to make it easier.

“Just place it to where the eagle requested it, darling.” Rarity said to him. “A hero needs to be properly treated as such.”

“Okay.” He relented before moving to do so.

“I want to sit right up front.” The young rhino voiced to his mongoose friend while making their way to the front of the crowd where a group of birds sitting there too.

“Hey, birds only.” One the male birds argued.

“But we're Hadithi fans too!” The rhino voiced rather upset being turned away like that.

“It's okay. We'll find another place to sit.” Mtoto assured it’s no big deal before they moved to find another spot.

“That was very nice of you, Mtoto.”

“It sure was generous, darling.”

Both Beshte and Rarity complimented him.

“I don't mind, Beshte. After all, you and Applejack are still my number one hero!” Mtoto informed them.

“Aww, what a gentleman.” Rarity giggled.

Right beside the elephants. Kion, Twilight, Fuli, and Kyoga have taken their seats nearby them while looking at the many animals gathered here right now.

“Huh. Lot of animals want to see Hadithi.” Kion commented.

“He sure must accomplished quite a lot to warrant all of this attention he is getting.” Twilight added.

“Huh. I guess.” Fuli shrugged. “So, where is he?”

“Probably making sure he looks his best for the part.” Kyoga answered with a tone of disgust.

“What do you mean by that?” She inquired.

“Have you met him?” Kion also asked.

“You could say that.” Kyoga replied. “Along with the fact that he is not all that he is cracked up to be.”

“What?” The three asked in unison wondering where she is going with this.

Back where they met the flock of egrets, both Ono and Rainbow are once again performing the Hadithi spin. Once again Rainbow performed it flawlessly while Ono managed to get two and a half loops complete on the next try.

“One. Two. Two and a half loops! Almost there!” Ono felt pleased with his progress.

“Nice! You’re definitely getting there!” Rainbow complimented before turning back to the eagle. “What do you think, Hadithi?”

“Hadithi?”

Once again, Hadithi wasn’t even paying attention since he was looking aside cleaning his feathers.

“Oh! Uh. Oh. Looked great, Ono. You too Rainbow Dash.” He told them without looking at them much.

“You weren't even watching.”

“What’s the idea?!”

Both pointed out with the former hurt while the latter is more interrogating on wondering why he is avoiding what should be a simple watch of a flight maneuver that he invented.

“I'm sorry, but I have to look my best! It wouldn't do for my fans to have their hero show up looking like he just came in from a windstorm! Although, it might make me look even more heroic.” He explained to them.

“Heck yeah it would!” Rainbow argued. “Because even if you have a few messy feathers, everyone will know it was because you were doing some very heroic and saving someone who really needs help!”

“Hmm. Interesting.” The eagle merely responded putting very little thought into it which raised Rainbow’s suspicion of what he is keeping from them.

“One more try! I bet I can do it!” Ono asked of him.

“I doubt that.” He muttered to which Rainbow frowned upon hearing that. “Time to go!”

“What? But you said I was a natural.” Ono reminded taken aback by this while she and Rainbow fly after him.

“A natural with the crowd. You give them what they want. You play them perfectly.” He explained.

“Play them? What do you mean?” Ono asked.

“You always tell them exactly what they want to hear!” Hadithi answered to which had the peagsus’s suspicions confirmed.

“By playing everyone for saps?” Rainbow angrily asked figuring it his lifelong scheme. “That’s how you were able to draw up a crowd?!”

“Huh?” Ono gasped with surprise at this accusation.

“My, my, my, you are quite a sharp mind yourself, Rainbow Dash.” Hadithi chuckled while attempting to brush it off. “And here I thought you were just a show-off at first.”

“Oh well, excuse me, Hadithi…” Rainbow returned rather offended by that comment before glaring at him. “…because here I thought you were a hero that is there for everyone until I picked up the pieces. You didn’t do any of those things you said did you? You didn’t really perform that Hadithi Spin of yours? You ain’t even performed one heroic rescue all on your own once in your life, did you?” Hadithi started to get nervous upon realizing he knows the truth. “Say it!”

“No…” He quietly admitted unable to lie his way out of this one.

“Oh, speak up, I don’t think your number one fan heard you.” Rainbow gestured to the confused and shocked egret.

“No.” He spoke up with guilt building up inside of him.

“All you've done is lie to everyone here in the Pride Lands and all of Equestria. You ain’t nothing but a fake and a coward. Isn’t that right?”

“Yes.” He quietly confessed.

“Louder!” Rainbow demanded.

“Yes.” He spoke up while Ono looked on rather devastated upon hearing what he had just found out about the bird he looked up to.

Before anything else, Ono picked up something with his keen sight…

“Hapana! Klipspringers in trouble! On the rocks just below.” Ono alerted to said animals on the edge of the cliff.

“Klipspringers are excellent climbers. They got up there, I'm sure they can get down.” Haditi dismissed.

“I suppose.” Ono reluctantly agreed much to Rainbow’s dismay. “I guess you guys will be fine.”

But no sooner he said that, Janja and his hyenas appeared at the bottom of the hill ready to climb up to them.

“I wouldn’t be so sure of that.” Rainbow quickly showed the egret the approaching hyenas. “It's Janja and his clan! They've got the klipspringers cornered!”

“A whole hyena clan?” Hadithi nervously asked.

“Yes, a whole hyena clan.” Rainbow sternly responded to the eagle before turning to the egret. “And don’t worry Ono, we can take ‘em! And as for you pathetic fraud…” Rainbow then added turning back to Hadithi. “…we are going rescue those klipspringers because true and loyal heroes like us never turn their backs on those who need help. And if you so much as care about everyone like you claim you’ll call for the Guard and get their help. Or we can tell and show everyone of what you really are and send you straight down to Tartarus the next time we ever see you again when this is all over. Your choice?”

“Um…um…” Hadithi nervously gulped before flying away much to Rainbow’s disappointment and disgust.

“Come on!” Rainbow ushered Ono to follow after her. “We can worry about that coward later.”

“What's the matter, klipspringers?” Janja taunted them while advancing on their helpless prey. “No place to go?”

Both Cheezi and Chungu shared an evil laugh over it.

“Yeah! Good one!”

“It's funny 'cause it's true!”

“Back off, Janja!” Rainbow shouted out to them.

“Uh-oh.”

“The Lion and Pony Guard?”

Both hyenas fearfully expressed when they see Rainbow and Ono both ready for a fight while Janja doesn’t have the same fear as his hyena lackeys.

“No. It's just little Ono and big tough girl Rainbow Dash. All by themselves. Ignore them!”

“You asked for it.” Ono responded seeing they are not backing down. “Time for the Hadithi Spin.”

“The what?” Janja asked while Rainbow is surprised that he is using the spin named after the fake hero.

“The Hadithi Spin!” Ono repeated before performing the move herself. “One. Two.” He then suddenly crashes into a cliffside and tumbles back down to the ground with a pile of small rocks landing on him and trapping him. “Oh, no! It's no use. I'm stuck.”

“Ooh, Janja! You hear that?” Chungu chuckled to his leader upon seeing and hearing this.

“Sounds like we're gonna have klipspringer with a side of Ono!” Cheezi added.

“You go ahead, boys. I'll round up the main course.” Janja told them with his eyes locked on the klipspringer.

“I don’t think so!” Rainbow defiantly retorted while quick flying down to rescue Ono and flies right in front of Janja with her hooves raised up with her wings flapping ready to take him on again.

At the same time, Hadithi has been thinking long and hard about what Rainbow had told her and really started to think that she is right and he is not someone everyone should look up to but still pressed forward with meeting everyone gathered at his ceremony.

“Look! Here he comes!” Mtoto told everyone upon seeing the eagle fly in for a landing by the time the royal’s all arrive on a high rock above the crafted nest in front of the mud pit with everyone all cheering for him.

“Welcome, Hadithi.” Simba greeted the eagle who managed to compose himself.

“Thank you, King Simba. Very soft. Yes, this will do.” He returned with guilt starting to eat him up while feeling the nest with his claws to which Kion slightly rolled his eyes in response.

“Where's Ono?”

“And Rainbow Dash?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked.

“He's, uh, still trying to get the Hadithi Spin right. I'm sure he'll be along shortly.” Hadithi attempted to assure the unconvinced leaders with Kyoga watching on unimpressed with his excuses.

“Really?” Kyoga spoke up to the eagle. “Are you sure about that? Because if you do know something is up you’ll tell us.”

“Of course, of course…” Hadithi sweated with a forced smile. “After all the higher you fly, the more they'll look up...” But suddenly he couldn’t bring it into his heart to go through with the act. “Aw, who am I kidding? You shouldn't look up to me! I'm no hero!” He confessed to the stunned crowd with the exception of Kyoga. “But I know a bird and Pegasus who is! And they're in trouble!”

“Ono!”

“Rainbow Dash!”

“Lion and Pony Guard, follow me!” The eagle gestured them back to where they along with the klipspringers and hyenas are with the Guard following after them.

“Come on, girls…” Twilight ushered them before Kion begins their battle cry

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion Guard defend!”

Back at the cliff side, Rainbow is trying to hold off Janja and his lackeys while holding onto Ono at the same time. For the peagsus herself it proves quite difficult when one of her forearms is used to carry Ono to the point the hyenas try to exploit this weakness by getting her to trip up and attempt an attack on Ono. The near miss caused Rainbow to accidentally drop Ono with rocks crashing onto him trapping him again leaving Rainbow with the sadistic choice of choosing to save Ono or the klipspringers.

“Come on.” Ono struggled to remove the rocks when Hadithi arrived with the Guard following after him.

“There's Ono!”

“And Rainbow Dash!”

Both leaders stated upon seeing the scenario in front of them.

“He's trapped!”

“And stuck with saving either one or the other.”

The Guard’s strongest commented on the sight.

“I'm on it. Huwezi!” Fuli quickly sped off to save Ono.

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight shouted after the Pegasus stuck struggling of who to save. “Fuli is on the way! Keep Janja at bay!”

“Got it!” Rainbow saluted before confidently facing off against Janja by punching him away with one of his hooves who growled back ready to go toe to toe with her.

Meanwhile, a struggling Ono then sees Fuli coming to his rescue which gives Ono a relief in his heart before turning back to Cheezi and Chungu.

“I'd back off if I were you.” He warned them.

“What for?” Cheezi laughed it off. “We know you're all alone, Ono.”

“I wouldn't be so sure about that!” Fuli quickly stated before running up to them face to face.

“Uh... Uh-oh. I don't think he's all alone no more.” Chungu suddenly whispered to Cheezi nervously in the face of the growling cheetah.

“You got that right.” She snarled with Kyoga quick to join her.

“Run!” Chungu exclaimed while he and Cheezi quickly flee from them with Fuli following after them.

“Amazing.” Hadithi remarked very impressed. “Even when you're trapped, you're still more concerned about others.I think I could learn from you. You're a true hero, Ono.”

“Thank you, Hadithi.” Ono felt touched by that compliment while he quickly removes the rocks trapping him with Kyoga letting him do so with a disgusted scoff.

“Sorry I left you behind, Ono.” He apologized.

“Well, I'm sure you had a good reason.” Ono tried to justify it to which Hadithi is not going to sugarcoat it anymore.

“Ono, it's time you knew the truth.”

“The truth?”

“None of the stories about me are true.” He admitted. “That day at Misty Falls? I fell out of the sky while this lioness Kyoga was there to save the day along with the times I saved a pony whenever the Guard wasn't around. There's no Hadithi Spin. There never was. Rainbow Dash was right. I am a fake and a cowardly fraud.” He added while turning away in shame. “And for that I’m terribly sorry, Kyoga.”

“Yeah. I kind of figured that last one out.” Ono replied. “Right about the time I crashed trying to do the Hadithi Spin.”

“Oh.”

“But, it doesn't mean there can't be one now!” Ono encouraged.

“You can still live up to being a true hero as long as you follow Rainbow Dash’s example in loyalty.” Kyoga added. “Just try not to take the credit for other’s heroism, okay?”

“Understood.”

“Follow me, Hadithi! Here we go.” Ono ushered the eagle so they can perform that technique together.

While Kyoga heads up the cliff to back the Guard up, Ono and Hadithi fly to prepare to use that flying trick to come to the klipspringers rescue.

Even when the fight between Janja and Rainbow Dash is one-sided in the latter’s favor, the hyena leader refuses to give up.

“Back away, Janja!” Kion ordered of him when he, Twilight, Pinkie, and Bunga arrive on the scene to corner him.

“How're you going to stop me, Kion?” Janja laughed it off. “I'm between you and the klipspringers.”

“Yeah, but, we're between you and the way off this cliff.” Bunga reminded.

“With nowhere to go!” Pinkie added.

“That’s right.” Kion stated.

“So? Why would I want to leave?” Janja still isn’t backing off. “There's so much here to eat.”

“Not for long.” Twilight confidently smiled before turning her head upwards. “Now, Applejack, Beshte!” She shouted out to them.

“Twende Kiboko!” Beshte declared while he and the cowgirl push a huge boulder downwards to create a bridge for the klipspringers to escape from the hyenas and cross.

“Go, guys! Go!” Kion barked at them with Fuli and Fluttershy quick to the guided the distressed animals.

“Come on, klipspringers! Follow me!”

“Let’s go!”

The two motioned them to do so while they still can with Rarity quickly running over to them to guide them across.

“You can't get away that easy!” Janja snarled preparing to pursue them before his lackeys ended up crashing onto him.

“Sorry, Janja!” Cheezi apologized.

“Cheezi pushed me!” Chungu complained.

“Never mind! Come on!” Janja quickly pushed them off before resuming their pursuit.

“Hurry! Klipspringers! Run!” Rarity yelled out to them.

“Fast as you can, little klippies!” Bunga added while following after the others just when the last klipspringer who has yet to cross ends up tripping and nearly falling over into the river leaving the door open for Janja to pounce on.

“Now!”

Before he and his friends could pounce on him, Rarity quickly took action.

“Oh no you don’t!” Rarity boldly stated before karate kicking the hyena leader away and punching Cheezi and Chungu at his direction.

Janja growled in response before charging at the prepared white unicorn until they saw Hadithi and Ono both flying around over and under the rock bridge.

“What? Whoa!” He exclaimed upon nearly avoiding being struck by the three.

“Come on, Hadithi! This is fun!” Ono said in his direction while Rainbow decides to join them.

“Wait, did he say "Hadithi"?” Janja stammered in shock upon the mention of his name.

While the hyenas are starting to get dizzy, everyone watching is amazing at Ono for being able to perform that very special technique.

“Poa!”

“Amazing!”

“Well I’ll be…”

Beshte, Rarity, and Applejack all voiced in amazement.

“Wow! Look at him go!” Bunga added.

“I don't know who's more impressive, Ono or Hadithi!” Kion commented.

“I do! Go, Ono!” Kyoga called and cheered for him.

“Yeah! Go, Ono!” Twilight agreed and cheered for the egret. “Go, Rainbow Dash!”

“Go Ono and Rainbow Dash! Woo-hoo!” Pinkie cheered while suddenly wearing a cheerleader outfit.

“Yes. Go, Ono.” Hadithi voiced to himself in agreement before joining him along with Rainbow Dash.

The three continue to fly around the hyena trio who all start to feel nauseous with the three flyers all flying circles around them.

“Whoa. I don't feel so good!”

“I think I'm gonna lose my lunch!”

“Fur brain! We all are!”

The three hyenas said before they all lose their balance and fall into the stream of water down below.

“Who was that big guy with the feathers?” Chungu asked while they float away.

“Don't you know nothin'? That was Hadithi, the legendary eagle!” Janja irritably answered at their cluelessness.

“We got beat by a legend?” Chungu asked with a pleased smile before he and Cheezi laughed together much to their leader’s dismay.

“Oh, my gosh. That's great!” Cheezi chuckled.

With the day saved once again, everyone all headed back to where the delayed ceremony takes place with Hadithi placing his prints into the mud with Ono and Rainbow Dash doing the same.

“I was supposed to pass my wisdom on to you. But instead, you passed some wisdom onto me. You and Rainbow Dash. You know why, kid? 'Cause you're both naturals. Natural heroes.” Hadithi praised the two who are now both wearing special medals of Honor for their accomplishment.

“Well, what can we say.” Rainbow shrugged it off.

“I can only hope that you’ll forgive me for my selfish actions.” Hadithi then asked of the peagsus.

“Of course.” Rainbow accepted his apology. “Protecting everyone here and in Equestria is what we do. Sure it has its ups and downs but as long as you remain loyal to your friends and live you to your element of strength to the end. You can be the hero you choose to be.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Hadithi warmly commented before everyone cheered for Ono and Rainbow Dash.

“Way to go, Ono!”

“Congratulations, darlings!”

Both Bunga and Rarity cheered and commended them.

“Animals of the Pride Lands and ponies of Equestria, I give you Ono the egret along with Rainbow Dash the most loyal peagsus, creator of the Ono and Rainbow Spin.” Hadithi presented to everyone who all cheered for them while they look on with incredible joy and pride.

Even though your biggest heroes may not be all as they are cracked up to be, that doesn’t stop those from proving their worth. And both Ono and Rainbow Dash taught Hadithi a thing about true bravery and loyalty and it is a valuable lesson he’ll never forget going forward.

Author's Note

In this episode, Ono gets to meet his idol Hadithi, a well-known hero through the two realms, or at least the kind that acts like one to appease his followers. Something that Rainbow Dash who was eager to learn and see his famous flying technique did not take kindly upon learning and lays into him big time for his lies to everyone something that Kyoga had a paw in the matter during one of her many travels.

Of course, time with Ono and Rainbow Dash had Hadithi think long and hard before his consicene took over and came to their help along with the Guard in dealing with Janja and his clan when they cornered a herd of klipspringers. And he ended up performing his or more accurately Ono and Rainbow's new flying technique in flying colors to help defeat the hyenas.

At the end of the day, Hadithi had learned a very valuable and humbling lesson, which now motivates into being a true hero like Ono and Rainbow Dash.

Next up is "Ponyville Confidental." where the Cutie Mark Crusaders join the school paper crew in another one of their attempts to gain their cutie marks but will soon learn the consequences of pursing their goals no matter the cost.

Episode 34: Ponyville Confidental

Episode 34

Ponyville Confidental

Another day in school comes and go for every young pony and Pride Lander. Another day where another foal earns a cutie mark much to the Cutie Mark Crusaders dismay. Particularly, one of their friends Featherweight. A light brown fur coated mare with brown hair with matching eyes, tall and thin legs, with his cutie mark consisting of a single quill feather. Fitting for a talented writer.

“Can you believe Featherweight got his cutie mark?” Sweetie Belle grumbled to Scootaloo while they watch every pony cheer for the foal in question. “Featherweight! Before us!”

“Great cutie mark, Featherweight!”

“Looking good!”

Both Snips and Snails complimented while both Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle sigh in defeated dismay when two of their Pride Lander friends approach them.

“Aw, come on girls.” Mtoto tried to lift their spirits. “Everyone knows you’ll get yours eventually.”

“Yeah, you just gotta keep trying new ideas.” Gumba added.

“We’ve been trying for nearly a year by now and still haven’t gotten them.” Scootaloo complained. “What’s the point?”

“I give up...” Sweetie Belle lamented in defeat.

But at that moment, Apple Bloom quickly came over with an idea with a rolled up paper in her hoof.

“I've got it! The answer to all our problems!” Apple Bloom presented them the newspaper in her hooves after leaping over the steps and tossing it to them.

“The Foal Free Press?” Sweetie read the paper’s header. “How's the school paper gonna get us our cutie marks?”

Before Apple Bloom could explain she heard her grandmother calling for her.

“Move your caboose!”

“Uh-oh. That's Granny Smith. Gotta run!”

Apple Bloom quickly left so she could head on home leaving her friends to read the paper themselves.

“Maybe there's something to this newspaper idea.” Scootaloo then thought.

“Guess it's worth a shot...” Sweetie went along with it while they walk off ahead.

“Good luck.” Mtoto called after them hoping it goes well for them.

The two have used all of the used papers they can to do some good deeds all around Ponyville. From helping Rarity and Ono carefully package a fragile vase, to creating bird’s nests, paper hats and paper boats for Pinkie Pie and Bunga. But each and every time they looked at their flanks nothing changed.

Back at the clubhouse where Apple Bloom is currently reading one of the paper, she is meant to her frowning friends.

“Apple Bloom. Your newspaper idea was nothing but a big bust.” Sweetie complained with mud and dirt in her mane.

“We tried everything, from papier-mâché to making birds' nests, and nothing worked.” Scootaloo added in agreement to which the earth pony giggled in amusement to which confused her and Sweetie Belle.

“What's so funny?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“What I meant was, we should write for the paper! We can get our cutie marks as journalists!” Apple Bloom clarified while showing them the poster of a pony wearing a journalist outfit.

Both fillies groaned and fell on their backs in annoyance while realizing they had misunderstood what their friend meant by showing them the newspaper in the first place.

After school the next day, Cheerlie sent off most of the class away before focusing on the students who stayed behind in favor of joining the school newspaper staff.

“Okay, class, see you tomorrow!” She dismissed the class with Rafiki seeing the children wanting to go home off before turning back to those who stayed. “Oh, for those of you who want to join the newspaper staff, stay here, because we're meeting right now!”

“Cutie marks in journalism!”

“Such a good idea.”

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo voiced to each other while their teacher continues.

“Welcome, everypony. Now, as you know, our editor-in-chief graduated last year…” She then sees Sweetie Belle eagerly raising her hoof up with a question on her mind. “Yes?”

“What's an editor-in-chief?”

“Good question, Sweetie Belle. I like those reporter's instincts.” Cheerlie complimented. “The Foal Free Press is a student-run paper. I'm only involved as an adviser, so the editor-in-chief is the pony in charge, from choosing the stories to making sure it gets to press on time. Now, as I said, we have a new editor this year!”

The editor-in-chief opens the door to make her introduction, and said filly is none other than one pony the foals did not want to be taking orders from.

“Diamond Tiara?!” The students all questioned the smug girl who walks inside.

“Yes, yes, I know what you all are thinking…” Cheerlie told everyone she too is aware of her attitude. “…But I can assure you she has what it takes to make sure everything goes efficiently and orderly. So without further ado, I'll leave you alone now to discuss everypony's assignments. Have fun! And remember…” She added in a warning tone. “…I’m watching you, so I expect you to be on your best behavior.”

“Of course, Cheerlie.” Diamond Tiara tried to insist innocently even though it wasn’t quite fooling any pony.

As soon as Cheerlie left the room, Diamond’s dropped the faux friendly facade and started barking orders like a bossy blowhard.

“Alright, listen up. The Foal Free Press is a joke.” She began asserting her authority by rolling down posters of herself. “Nopony at this school takes it seriously. Well I, the editor-in-chief in charge, am going to deliver us to newfound glory!”

“Huh?” The students all asked in confusion.

“First things first. Where's the staff photographer?” She demanded until Featherweight nervously raised his hoof. “Get out there and document everything. I'll decide what's important.” He immediately went out the door with Diamond gestured her to leave through before shutting it after he left. “The rest of you, I want hard-hitting news and interesting think pieces. No more Namby-Pamby stories like last year's editor.”

“But Namby-Pamby was a great editor.” One pony pointed out.

“Well, there's a new regime now, and I want juicy stories.” Diamond stated. “The juicier, the better! Now get out there and report!”

“Let's get out of here, girls. Maybe we can try packing boxes again.” Scootaloo whispered to the other girls.

“But this could be our last chance to earn our cutie marks!” Sweetie voiced otherwise. “If we really are supposed to be journalists, isn't it worth a little grief?”

“I guess you're right.” Scootaloo relented. “We can take a little bit of Diamond Tiara for a lifetime of cutie marks.”

“C'mon! Let's go get these marks!” Sweetie cheerfully declared.

Oh, if only they knew what they were getting themselves into with what’s about to happen…

The girls split up to find good gossip stories. Sweetie Belle started off with an exclusive interview with her big sister Rarity. Scootaloo thought it would be a good idea to interview birds. And Apple Bloom tried to interview with Granny Smith since she always has good stories to tell although it didn’t quite go as well as they expected.

Rarity seemed more interested in using her little sister for a model for her latest hat creation. Scootaloo fell off of the tree and into the mud pit. Granny Smith was more interested in telling baby stories particularly one where Apple Bloom was wearing diapers when she was younger much to her embarrassment. But they did manage pull something useful out of it. And they hope it will make good press for the paper.

“I hope you've got something, because everything so far is unusable.” Diamond said to the approaching trio while they hand them their written reports to which she takes her time to look at them. “"Baby Birds Born"? "Rarity's Hot New Hat"? "Ponyville: The Early Years"!? Oh!” She quickly tossed the papers away in disgust before advancing on the trio who back up as a result. “I don't know what you call this, but it sure isn't news!”

“We just... thought...” Sweetie tried to explain before being cut off with a hoof slammed onto the wall.

“Get something else on my desk by the end of the day, and it better be juicy!” She demanded right in their faces before kicking them and their belongings out.

“Now what?” Scootaloo asked. “Do you know what I had to do to get that story?”

“Oh, you don't even wanna know what I had to sit through.” Apple Bloom returned unware that Featherweight is taking pictures behind their back.

“Oh! Get it off me, Snails!” Snips argued to his friend which caught Sweetie Belle’s attention.

“Eh, you get it off me, Snips?” He said back while Sweetie Belle catchs a glimpse of what has happened to them. They both are literally stuck together thanks to some gum that got stuck on their flanks.

“Aah! Stop it! You are making it worse! Nah! Oh, great.” Snips complained while accidentally getting a hoof in the gum.

“I'll get it.” Snails attempted to resolve this by kicking his partner away which only resulted in them being stuck back to back.

“Aah!”

“Get it off! Get it off!”

The two complimented to which Sweetie Belle smiled with an idea in her head upon seeing this.

“Hey, Featherweight, c'mere!” She motioned the photographer to do so while gesturing to the bumbling duo. “Take a few pictures of this, then meet me during lunch.”

Once he does what was asked of him she then turns to her friends with new inspiration in her head. “Girls, I have our story.”

Diamond Tiara one for gossip stories, approved of it and with that, the next day it made the front headlines of the newspaper that day. Every filly and young Pride Lander were all sharing laughs over it.

“"Snips and Snails in Bubblegum Veils! And that's when the biggest jokester in school really stuck his hoof in it – literally!"

“The Foal Free Press is usually just boring news and stuff.”

“So funny!”

“Boy I’d sure hate to be in a sticky situation right now.” Shakku remarked to Gumba who both shared a laugh over it.

“Even when we’re pals that’d be too tight for me.” Gumba returned while they both continuing laughing while the others are gathering around the two who both managed to get the gum off by cutting the sticky fur off.

“Our mothers always told us we'd end up in the papers someday.”

“Yeah, and look! We finally got the gum out!”

The two commented while showing their shaven body parts to which the camera snapped a picture of. Apparently, they don’t mind since they have always wanted to be in the paper someday regardless with how humiliating it was for them.

“Your column is a sensation!” Diamond Tiara later commended them in her office. “I don't want you doing news anymore. I want more columns like this.” She desired while looking out the window. “Columns about ponies and their private lives, the things they do when they think they're alone. You three are my new gossip columnists!” The trio smiled. “And I love the way you signed it! "Gabby Gums"....” She commented on the mysterious individual photo to make their identity anonymous. “That was a stroke of genius!”

“We couldn't fit all of our names, so we decided to create one for all three of us.” Sweetie admitted.

“Well, I want more Gabby Gums! Nice work, girls.” She complimented while pounding her fist on her desk before turning her chair opposite from them.

“But we sure seem to have a gift for gossip.” Scootaloo said feeling pleased with their accomplishment.

“If we can write a few more of these Gabby Gums columns, we'll earn our cutie marks for sure!” Sweetie Belle added while the girls all cheered and shared a high-five together thinking it should be easy…

…Although it’s easier said than done when they immediately come up empty-hooved even when thinking over cups of hot chocolate.

“Scootaloo? Do you have anything?” Sweetie wearily asked the peagsus fiddling with her pencil.

“Nope.”

“Apple Bloom?”

“Sorry.”

It was a problem for the girls, sure they could post the same story again, but it would getting boring quick. So they’re going to have to come with new gossip stories if they want to spread interest in the school paper.

The following afternoon, Rarity was currently walking in her boutique when she ended up tripping over her little sister’s saddlebag placed in her path during her careless misplacing just when Ono flew inside the room with fabric in tow.

“Ohh, Sweetie Belle... Was she raised in a barn or something?” Rarity complained while picking her saddlebag up.

“Sorry, Rarity.” Ono apologized while gently placing the requested fabric onto the table. “I meant to tell you before I got distracted with getting the fabric you requested.”

“It’s okay. My little sister just really needs to handle her stuff with more care.” She responded before having a sudden urge to want to take a peak. “Oh, you really shouldn't be snooping, Rarity...“ But she couldn’t resist. “…Oh, but it's so much fun, Rarity.”

“Well, let’s hope your sister doesn’t catch you or else we’re sitting ducks.” Ono remarked while Rarity pulls out the school paper from her sister’s saddlebag.

“Hello... what's this?” She began reading the paper and end up giggling at the contents specifically the bubble gum incident. “Ono, check this out. It’s so funny.”

Ono reluctantly did so against his own wishes and took a peak at the paper and ended up finding it pretty amusing himself. “Gum on their bum!” He ended up chuckling himself. “I shouldn’t be laughing but… this is too rich!”

While the two share a laugh over the gossip story, Sweetie Belle ended up drawn to the same room as them.

“Can you please keep it down with all the laughter? I'm trying to…” She irritably began before spotting her open saddlebag and the school paper being held by her older sister’s magic. “…hey!”

“Hapana!” Ono exclaimed upon seeing they are both caught red hoofed and feathered with the older unicorn quickly placing the paper back in her bag.

“Oh, boy, I really wish I was watching out for her.” He said to himself with regret while Rarity tries to act innocent. “Boy, I’m 0 for 2 today.”

“I, I was just–“ Rarity stammered trying to hide the evidence behind her back.

“Are you snooping through my saddlebag?” She interrogated while her widely grinning sister trying to hide it from her. Every time she turned her head to where she correctly suspects her sister is trying to hide it she uses her magic to keep it out of her view. After a few seconds of putting up with it she moved to smack Rarity's horn to make her let go of her magical grasp on it allowing her to retrieve it. “How dare you!” She scolded them.

“Sorry, Sweetie Belle.” Rarity apologized.

“We just happened to come across this Gabby Gums column in this paper of yours and we both found it admittedly funny.” Ono truthfully added to which had Sweetie's anger turn into surprise upon hearing this.

“You actually like the school paper?” Sweetie asked while the two continue to read it.

“It's so much juicier than anything in the boring old Ponyville Express.” Rarity added while she and the egret continue to read it. “Could we borrow this to show our friends?” She then asked of her.

“Your friends would wanna read the Foal Free Press?” Sweetie asked to make sure she is hearing her right.

“Oh, they'd just love Gabby Gums!” She happily answered to which sparked a huge smile on the filly’s face with another idea in her head. “Who is she, anyway? I've never heard of her before. Is she a new–“

She stopped mid-sentence when she realized that she had already left.

“Wow, strike three. Man, my keen sight sure has struck out right then and there.” Ono commented upon missing her sudden disappearance.

Sweetie quickly rushed back over to the school to meet up with her friends.

“We gave up too quickly, girls. Forget trying to squeeze stories out of this school. We need to expand!” She told them

“We can find all kinds of great gossip out there in Ponyville!” Apple Bloom agreed getting the idea.

“We'll need to tell Featherweight to start working overtime.” Sweetie added before approaching said pony taking pictures of a lady-bug on the fence post.

“Sweetie Belle, you're a genius!” Scootaloo praised.

With Featherweight’s help, they were able to snap a photo of the Cake twins wailing at the store with their tired eyed parents trying everything they can to get them stop without them noticing.

“"Pound and Pumpkin Cake Trip to the Store Ends in Tears."” Diamond Tiara read the proposed story and headline. “Gabby Gums comes through again!” She remarked very pleased with this while a slightly chubby pony Truffle Shuffle came up to her panting.

“The Ponyville news stand wants to carry the Foal Free Press! Ponies keep coming by and asking for it!” He reported.

“Send 'em twenty copies, and if they run out of those, we'll send 'em twenty more!” Diamond instructed of him who quickly sets out to do so before turning back to the Crusaders. ”You three are doing a great job for this paper.” She complimented them before leaving. “Keep those columns coming!”

With her approval, the Crusaders have found something worth pursing in their pursuit of their cutie marks. Pretty soon, everyone in Ponyville was reading the papers and it even extended into the Pride Lands in the other realm. Juicy stories and gossip sure draw a crowd. But the big question is how far will the girls go in their pursuit and know when to draw the line.

Meanwhile the Lion and Pony Guard have gathered together at the Ponyville Spa to discuss this over spa treatments and pedicures.

“Oh, this is the life, isn't it, girls?” Rarity asked the others. “The best hooficure I've ever had!”

“You said it, ooh...” Applejack agreed while having her back massage.

“No kidding.” Bunga also agreed having the same done as well. “Ooh…yeah.”

“Very relaxing.” Beshte added while also having a massage too.

“I don't know if I've ever been so relaxed.” Spike added while relaxing on his bed with cucumbers on his eyes.

“You guys!” Rainbow called out to everyone while holding up one of the papers with Spike’s cucumbers flinging onto Rainbow’s eyes following a yelp. “The new Gabby Gums just came out! "The Great and Powerful Trixie's Secrets Revealed!"”

“We already read that one, Rainbow Dash.” Rarity responded while Rainbow eats off the cucumbers. “Come on, relax, have a hooficure, it feels amazing.” She then gestured her to.

“Did you forget who you're talking to? The day I get a hooficure is the day I turn in my daredevil license.” She responded treating it is something that’s never going to happen. “Besides, I haven't read this Gabby Gums yet. Aardvarks nearly mistaken for hyenas and nearly roared out of the Pride Lands.”

Kion looked aside feeling mortified that article and memory was brought up in the papers. "Good thing Kyoga stopped me in time." He quietly muttered to himself.

“Oh really?” Fuli questioned from currently having her claws done with a teasing smirk. “If that’s so would that apply to me as well?”

“Fuli?” Rainbow questioned in surprise to see her here. “What are you doing here?”

“Enjoying the perks of a spa treatment of course.” She replied. “I’ve been doing this with Rarity, Twilight, and Fluttershy ever since I’ve met them.” She added while having her back and legs massaged. “You know you really should try it out because it can be quite relaxing and make their muscles more flexible.”

“Well, do it quietly, will ya?” Spike told them while getting and putting on new cucumbers on his eyes with an annoyed sigh. “Some of us are trying to unwind!”

“I like Gabby Gums too, but don't you think she can be a little mean?” Twilight commented while a spa pony places curls in her tail.

“I don’t think so. At least not trying to be.” Beshte who is currently getting a message tried to make light of it while the unicorn reads a paper with a snapshot of Princess Celestia caught eating cake.

“"Celestia Just Like Us"?” Twilight brought up said article. “Gabby Gums doesn't value anypony's or anyone’s privacy.”

“Sure doesn’t look that way, Twilight.” Kion agreed with a frown while moving to relax in the hot tub with Fuli and Fluttershy.

“Oh, lighten up, Twilight, Kion, it's nothing but harmless gossip!” Rarity assured them.

“Not yet.” Kyoga voiced her input on the matter.

“I’m sure there are still certain lines they wouldn’t cross, would they?” Beshte added while Pinkie popped her head out of the hot tub where Fuli and Fluttershy are now.

“Yeah, Twilight, I mean listen to this one.” Pinkie added while presenting the article she is currently reading. “"Mayor Not Naturally Gray!" The Mayor in a mane dyeing scandal? And ooh ooh..." She caught her eye on an article with an image of the giraffe's with their necks stuck in trees. "Giraffe's stuck up high. Who wouldn't wanna read that?”

“Between you and me, probably those featured in her columns.” Kion answered. “And to tell you the truth I can’t help but feel sorry for anyone featured in them. It's gotta be a little embarrassing.”

“I have to agree with you there.” Twilight commented while having her hooves done.

“Are you kidding?” Rainbow tried to voice his disagreements. “Do you know how awesome it is to get your name in the paper?”

“Anyone would kill to be the top headlines in the press.” Bunga added.

“Unless, you happen to be one everyone’s making fun of.” Kion pointed out.

“It may be fun and entertaining for you, but none of you would be laughing if the joke is on you.” Kyoga added.

“Rainbow, why don't you join me in one of these delicious hooficures?” Rarity again urged her while currently having a hooficure with both Twilight and Fuli smiling at Rainbow’s direction.

“It's that good, huh?” Both Twilight and Fuli nodded in response to the peagsus’s question. “Well, maybe just one little hoof.” She moved onto one of the bed’s, unaware that Featherweight is secretly watching from the other room ready to take a picture of her.

“This should be interesting.” Fuli whispered to Twilight while they both watch to see her try it out.

She tried to prepare herself when one of the spa workers prepared to file her hooves, but ultimately not even within an inch did Rainbow allow herself to relax into. She ended up getting cold hoofs and flew off of the spa chair.

“Forget it, I don't like ponies touching my hooves.” She refused to go through with it before looking at the copy of the paper on the floor. “Man... I'd love it if Gabby Gums did a story on me.”

“Me too.” Ono agreed while having the claws on his legs filed. “If more ponies could know more about my keen sight, the more they see how sharp eyed I am.”

“She did one on me.” Spike commented while lounging on his chair.

“What?!” Everyone all rushed over and inquired to hear more about this.

It was a column which was rather different than previous entries, it was a personal interview of the young dragon talking about Canterlot, his naps, and his favorite jams.

"Exclusive! Local Dragon Tells All! Spike opens up about Canterlot, naps, and his favorite jams!" Apple Bloom presented to Diamond Tiara.

“It's our best column yet!” Scootaloo added in agreement.

“More like your worst column yet!” Diamond Tiara however disagreed while leaping up onto her desk. “Gabby Gums didn't become the biggest thing in Ponyville with namby-pamby stories like this!”

She slammed the proposed article back in their faces before leaving the printing room.

“Yeah, she's right.” Apple Bloom admitted with a sigh. “This column is a little softer than our usual gossip.”

“Were you guys feeling guilty about all the gossip too? Like... maybe we could be hurting other ponies' feelings?” Sweetie Belle asked having second thoughts about what they are doing.

“Yeah.” Apple Bloom honestly confessed. “I didn't wanna say anything because everypony loves Gabby Gums so much, but... I was sorta hoping we could start writing more stories like this one.”

“Me too.” Scootaloo agreed, not expecting Diamond’s dismissal of their new proposal while Sweetie Belle tossed the proposal in the nearby trash can.

“If we're gonna get our cutie marks, we've got to give the ponies what they want.” Sweetie declared while the three all share a rather unhappy hoof bump over it feeling they don’t have a choice in the matter even though they do have that option.

And of course by doing so, they have only guaranteed things are going to get worse from there with Gabby Gums taking things on a more personal level. And when this happened, the Guard all got together for a meeting at Sugarcube Corner. Some of the stories included the mayor revealed to having her mane dyed from pink to grey.

On the Pride Lands side of the fence, a rhino getting his horn stuck in a tree along with giraffes getting their heads stuck in tree branches. Baboons randomly falling out of trees along with zebras getting stuck in the mud from the previous rainstorm. Essentially, every embarrassing blunder to which requires the Guard’s help in getting out of the messes almost every day has been recorded and published for all eyes to see.

“"Applejack Asleep on the Job!" Can y'all believe this?!” Applejack furiously vented first on a gossip story involving him taking a little break. “And this one: "Big McIntosh – What's He Hiding?" Who the hay does this Gabby Gums think she is?!” He added while focused on a picture of Big Mac holding Twilight’s old smarty pants doll.

“So that’s where my Smarty Pants doll went.” Twilight commented before focusing on a gossip story focused on her. “Listen to this one. "Twilight Sparkle: I Was a Canterlot Snob. A well-placed scaly source close to the prissy pony says Twilight Sparkle thinks Ponyville is nothing but muddy roads and low-class rubes.” Spike!” She turned to the dragon who yelped and belched which scorched his copy of the paper. “How could you say such a thing?”

“Well, I didn't! Gabby Gums made that up! I never said anything like that!” Spike exclaimed to clarify his innocence.

“You think that’s embarrassing? Well check this out!” Ono presented the gossip story with a picture of him crashing into rocks. ””Ono the Keenest of Sight, more like the Keenest Klutz.” Unbelievable! All because I accidentally took a turn too sharp one time!” He exclaimed in frustration.

“At least you weren’t caught nuzzling with your siblings.” Kyoga commented while presenting said article of her sleeping with Karabi and Lite. ““Kyoga reunites with her family with more hidden love inside.” What do I like a lovebird so desperate for affection? I’m not even Scar’s cousin for lion’s sake.”

“Everypony, please!” Rarity implored of everyone. “She's just a harmless schoolpony engaged in a little harmless gossip. You're really making too big a deal out of this.”

“But it's all lies!” Twilight explained while showing her the evidence on ink and paper. “Gabby Gums prints whatever she wants! She doesn't care whose reputation she destroys! "Fluttershy Has Tail Extensions!"” She showed a picture of the peagsus with arrows pointed at her long tail. Fluttershy shamefully shrunk her head to the ground upon hearing and seeing this before the lavender mare focused on a picture of Beshte painted in the color of a white and black spotted cow relaxing at Big Springs. “Beshte is Milking the soaks of Big Springs.”

“Huh?” Beshte looked upon said picture and article before looking mortified and flustered when seeing the hippo girls that flirted with him a while back giggling in the background of the photo.

“"Pinkie Pie and Bunga are Out-of-Control Party Animals!" Twilight read while looking at a photo of Pinkie and Bunga dancing in punch bowls.

“What?!” The two exclaimed.

“Oh my gosh!”

“It's true! I do have a problem!”

“You and me both sister!”

The two exclaimed before the honey badger runs off crying while Pinkie sobs with her face buried on the floor.

“Nothing new there.” Kyoga commented with little pity seeing it’s not exactly anything out of the ordinary.

“Oh, look!” Twilight directed the others attention to another story to which both Applejack and Fluttershy read over Twilight’s shoulders. “According to this one, the Cakes are breaking up!”

“We are?!” Mrs. Cake exclaimed upon hearing this.

“”Along with the King and Queen of the Pride Lands…” Kion added with another article of two separate photos, one of his parents, the other with him and his sister. “…disputing over custody over their children. One of them being the bad-tempered and under-confident leader of the Lion Guard.” What the heck?! My parents are breaking up and that’s not what my relationship with my sister is like. And I do not have an anger problem!” He protested while slamming the copy onto the table in frustration. “If others took this seriously, then I might as well not exist for everyone’s sake!”

At that moment, Rainbow and Fuli came busting inside with several copies of the paper in tow.

“Well, my life is officially over. Gabby Gums has made it to Cloudsdale.” Rainbow complained while showing the picture of her attempted public hooficure.

“"Rainbow Dash: Speed Demon or Super Softie?"?!” Twilight read.

“I grabbed as many copies as I could, but it was too late!” Rainbow exclaimed while falling backwards on the floor dramatically. “I'm a laughing stock!”

“You think that’s bad, Rainbow Dash.” Fuli showed her the paper of her cuddling her favorite cat at Fluttershy’s cottage. “This headline. “Fuli the Fastest, or Fuli the Fluffy?” is just as badly embarrassing.”

“See, Rarity? Your so-called 'harmless gossip' can be very hurtful!” Twilight told her who still had simple remarks to say about it.

“Okay, so she tweaks a few ponies every now and then…” Rarity tried to downplay it all while reading another new article. “…maybe they deser…” She suddenly gasped upon seeing something that caught her discerning eye. “I'll destroy her!” A gossip story of herself with a picture lying on her fainting couch “"The Drama-Queen Diaries"... She's reprinted my diary! How could Gabby Gums possibly get access to my private diary?!”

“Because of the only pony who could have been close enough to you to get it.” Kyoga analyzed. “Sweetie Belle.”

“My sister would never associate with anyone as beastly as Gabby Gums!” Rarity responded with an offended gasp. “I resent you even suggesting such a thing, Kyoga! Why, she's the most innocent, most lovely…“

But then when she saw her diary in Sweetie Belle’s saddlebag she came to realize the hard truth “…most evil pony in Equestria! How could my own sister steal my private diary? How could my own sister be... Gabby Gums?”

A short time later, Rarity with Ono accompanying her went to confront Sweetie Belle where Rarity kicked open the door to Sweetie Belle’s room.

“Et tu, Gabby Gums?!”

“A.K.A. Sweetie Belle?!”

The two declared.

“You know?!” Sweetie gasped realizing she is busted. “How'd you find out?!”

“The gilded pages of your betrayal!” Rarity answered while holding up her diary and the copied word for word entry in the paper.

“Oh, yeah.”

“Yeah, oh yeah.” Ono remarked seriously while showing the similarities between the two entries from both the journal and paper. “Doesn’t take a keen sight to spot out something written word for word exactly.”

“How could you do this to me?!” Rarity questioned with betrayal in her tone of voice while trying to lecture her properly. “You stole my secret diary and published it for all the world to read! Gossip can be a very hurtful thing. It is an invasion of privacy, just like when I snooped through your saddlebag. You didn't like that much, did you?”

“No...” Sweetie admitted while shaking her head.

“Then why did you do it?” Ono demanded. “What did you have to gain other than humiliating and embarrassing your own friends?”

“Well other than attempting to earn our cutie marks in journalism…” Sweetie shamefully confessed. “…but we honestly didn’t think what we were doing was harmful. We just trying to provide some interesting stories for other’s to read.”

“We?” Ono raised a knowing eyebrow seeing this little scheme of hers. “Like Apple Bloom and Scootaloo? Your accomplices?”

“Yes.” She admitted.

“Well nevertheless, I am very disappointed in you.” Rarity sternly chided. “I thought you of all ponies would understand that by now.”

“I do understand, and we've all been feeling guilty, but we just want our cutie marks so badly!” Sweetie confessed with Rarity pegging a very deep question in response to her reasons.

“Do you really think that writing nasty things and making everypony feel horrible is your destiny? Is it really worth gaining a cutie mark over it?”

“Well, when you put it that way...” Sweetie began seeing it is time to put an end to this…

…but Diamond Tiara wouldn’t allow it.

“No! I won't let you quit!”

“But the gossip we've been printing is hurting everypony's feelings!” Sweetie protested.

“Feelings?! I don't care about feelings!” Diamond callously remarked. “Gabby Gums is my bread and butter, and I'm not gonna let you goody-two-horseshoes take that away from me!”

“We're sorry, Diamond Tiara, but we've made our decision.” Sweetie asserted.

“Yeah, you can't force us to keep gossiping.” Scootaloo also asserted with a confident smile. But Diamond was prepared for this…

“When you see these...” She ominously said while tossing over a folder of photos of the trio in their earlier attempts to gain news stories. “…you may not want to quit after all.” The girls gasped upon seeing this while Featherweight snaps more pictures of the girls. “I told Featherweight to document everything…” She then quickly confiscated the photos back before they could take them back “…And that's exactly what he did.”

“Gimme those!” Scootaloo growled while attempting to snatch the photos away from Diamond.

“Sorry, girls, property of the Foal Free Press.” Diamond smugly returned while keeping them out of her reach before making her way back to her chair with her blackmail threat set and stone. “And if Gabby Gums really does go into retirement, I'll need something to fill that empty column space. Now get out there and bring me more Gabby Gums!”

Left with no other choice, the girls are left looking for more stories to find and report. At the same time, Mtoto gasped upon secretly witnessing this scene from the window outside before fleeing the scene before he could get caught.

“We'll find a way out of this, girls.” Sweetie assured the other girls

“Maybe Rainbow Dash will have a story for us.” Scootaloo suggested. “She's always good for some gossip.”

“Oh, and there’s Kyoga.” Apple Bloom added while pointing to the lioness approaching them who alerts Rainbow of their presence. “Rainbow Dash! Kyoga! Hey, how’s it going!”

“Well, if it isn't Gabby Gums!” Rainbow returned with a hardened glare.

“You heard too, huh?” Sweetie nervously asked.

“Are you kidding? Everypony in town knows it's you three.” She confirmed.

“Not only that. Everyone in the Pride Lands knows it too.” Kyoga added sternly.

“Don't suppose you'd let us write a column on you, huh?” Scootaloo sheepishly asked which is met with the peagsus simply flying away.

“Does that answer your question?” Kyoga simply said unsympathetically. “Because not even one of you will you get another story out of me either. So good day, girls.”

She simply turned and walked away in a huff and head up high.

The girls then turned to Fluttershy who is currently at her cottage weeping in humiliation to the point a pool and river of tears is streaming outside of the cottage where they are greeted by Fuli who is there to comfort her along with Beshte answers the door.

“Oh, hi, Fuli. Is Fluttershy home?” Sweetie Belle greeted with a smile trying to act innocent.

“No she’s not home.” Fuli sarcastically remarked not buying their attempt to act like everything is okay. “She is currently at the sobbing hotel resort on account of your humiliating stories of her.”

“Oh.” She responded knowing the truth extends to her.

“Yep.” She angrily returned. “And thanks to you girls, she is now a sobbing wreck while I’m now going to be the laughing stock because you had to go tell every one of my private hobby. Seriously, what the hay were you girls thinking?!”

“But…” Sweetie tried to explain herself but Fuli wasn’t having it while Beshte remains silent and looks away in disappointment.

“Get out of here, Gabby Gums.” She firmly told them with a measured tone of voice by shutting the door in front of their faces.

The girls then turned to Twilight’s home but found she has already put up a force field made specifically to keep them out of her property. And of course Applejack and Big Macintosh were not very welcoming of the girls either.

“Aw, c'mon, Applejack! You're not mad at us too, are you?” Apple Bloom pleaded.

“Eeyup.” Applejack bluntly responded.

“You're not even gonna talk to us?”

“Nnope.” She bluntly answered while turning away from them while Big Macintosh for once had more than a few stern words himself to say to her and her friends. And they sure weren’t pleasant.

“You should be ashamed of yourself, humiliatin' your sister 'n' me like that. We don't wanna talk to any o' y'all right now so take your little gossip column and your embarrassing photographs and just go away!”

Everyone in Ponyville is also giving them the cold shoulder, refusing to talk to them, and refusing to speak to them. The girls seeing that no one is going to hear them out they come to conclude they have only one choice now. And that is by reaching out to one of the many places they are not welcome in. The Pride Lands where they get the same treatment from them when they make their way to Pride Rock where the Pride Landers were quick to turn away from them upon seeing them.

Of course as they expected, the royal family at Pride Rock also wasn’t very welcoming of the girls either especially with their false feud scandal story spread all over for all eyes to read.

“What do you three girls want?” Kion irritably demanded of them.

“Nothing.” Scootaloo innocently answered. “…other than a place to stay for the night.”

“I don’t know if that’s such a good idea. Considering this family is having a huge quarrel about it.” Kion responded while gesturing to his frowning family still upset over the false gossip scandal produced over it.

“But Kion please listen to us. I know you and everyone are mad at us but we honestly have nowhere else to go.” Apple Bloom pleaded.

“Please just for the night.” Sweetie implored with the lion prince who she looks up to as a big brother.

Kion turned back to his father who released a reluctant sigh being one never to turn away someone with nowhere to live.

“Fine. You can all sleep inside Pride Rock for the night.” He relented with a look of disappointment that says it all. “And since you’re here. Would you care to tell what were you girls thinking posting all of those scandalous stories about us?”

“We thought that we would be able to earn our cutie marks in journalism.” Apple Bloom confessed. “But we never meant for this to go this far.”

“So why don’t you all just do this the easy way and stop right now.” Kion inquired.

“Because now we going to have our most embarrassing moments are about to be published for everypony to laugh at.” Scootaloo answered with desperate for help written on across her face.

“Diamond Tiara blackmailed you?” Kion figured where they were going with this.

“Yes.” Apple Bloom nodded.

“I know what we did was wrong and we’re sorry. All we wanted was to just gain our cutie marks, but instead we've ruined all of our friendships and we still don't have our cutie marks!” Sweetie Belle added. “This is the worst day ever for us!”

Kion calmed down slightly feeling sympathy for them. Sure they deserve to be punished but having their embarrassing secrets is overkill.

“What do we do?” Apple Bloom desperately asked for help.

“Well, you girls are sorry for what you did?” Nala asked again.

“Yes!”

“Well, you’re all going to have do more than apologize to get them to know you really mean it.” Nala advised firmly. “And that means fixing the problem you created yourselves.”

“Like what? A public apology in the next paper?” Scootaloo asked to which Nala nodded in response.

“We can definitely do that, no problem.” Apple Bloom liked the idea with a smile to her friends.

“But what about Diamond Tiara?” Sweetie asked. “What’s going to stop her from blackmailing us?”

“I think we can help you out there.” Mtoto called out her while approaching the royal family with his friends. “Your Majesties.” He added with a bow out of respect for the king and queen of the Pride Lands.

“How?” Apple Bloom asked when the little elephant smiles at everyone before explaining to them of what he has in mind of what they can do to fix all of this.

The next morning, the girls sprung their plan into action. First thing’s first moved to greet Diamond Tiara with a story she’s been asking for.

“That's it, Gabby Gums is out of time. Run these instead. I want this paper on every street corner in Ponyville!” Diamond Tiara said to the pony running the paper press.

“Yes ma’m.“ He saluted when the girls burst inside the cellar room.

“Stop the presses!” Sweetie Belle shouted.

“Uh... they haven't started yet.” The pony pointed out.

“We have a Gabby Gums column!” Scootaloo happily presented him their note pad to which he quickly starts making paper’s headline with this notes.

“Hmph, you're lucky I'm nice.” Diamond growled. “This better not happen again, or else.

The paper’s got published in no time at all, with Diamond Tiara herself exiting the stop feeling pleased with herself upon seeing everyone reading it. During this time the Cutie Mark Crusaders reconciled with their Lion and Pony Guard friends and the main reason for that is because of what was published in the headlines.

“To the citizens of Ponyville,

For some time now, you've been reading this column to get the latest dirt and the hottest buzz. But this will be my final piece. We want to apologize for the pain and embarrassment we've caused.

Y'see, I'm actually three little fillies, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo.

As the popularity of our column grew, we got swept up in the hype. We knew that what we were doing didn't feel quite right, but we ignored the guilt because everypony seemed to want to read what we were writing.

From now on, we promise to respect everypony else's privacy and we won't engage in hurtful gossip any more.

All we can do is ask for your forgiveness, Ponyville.

Signing off for the very last time,

XOXO, Gabby Gums.”

By the time Diamond Tiara realized what was already published. It was too late. The Lion Guard fan club snuck away the photos Diamond took of the Crusaders away behind her back and Cheerlie had found out what she has done during her time as editor-in-chief. With that, it pretty much ensures that Cheerlie will be taking action and disciplining her for her actions.

The next day, Cheerlie took action with Kion and Simba by her side to oversee the matter themselves too.

“Well, staff, I guess I gave a little too much authority to a first-time editor.” She began before sternly addressing the filly she has to punish. “I'm sorry, Diamond Tiara, I have to strip you of your title.” Diamond growled upon having her posters taken down. “And for the next editor of the Foal Free Press...” She continued while having walk up beside the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “...here's your new editor-in-chief, Featherweight!” She then introduced to the pony flying into the room who is greeted with happy cheers while hoof bumping with ink editor.

“Ugh! Him? But what about me?!” Diamond Tiara complained.

“Here ya go!” The now former ink editor pony answered while handing him his smock and hat. “I've been promoted to staff photographer!”

While Diamond grumbles while getting splattered by ink because of the messy machine, Kion heads over to the girls and the honorary Lion Guard crew while his father talks to Cheerlie going forward with how the school paper will be properly handled to ensure this doesn’t happen again.

“Thank you again, Kion.” Sweetie Belle thanked the prince. “You and the honorary Lion Guard team.”

“No problem.” Kion thought nothing of it. “As long as you girls learned your lesson that’s all that matters.”

“We sure did.” Scootaloo responded that they have learned their lesson.

“And we will never do something like that again.” Apple Bloom vowed.

“And that’s something we can expect going forward.” Kion told them very pleased with the lesson they learned today. “And good job snagging those photos from Diamond Tiara’s back.” He then said to the Lion Guard fan club.

“Thanks, Kion.” Gumba said with a smile while Shakku presents the folder. “Nothing like a sneaky game of cat and mouse and toying with a bully to get them out of her hooves.”

“It was easy as the time we played that game with those baboons.” Shakku chuckled while handing Kion the folder who uses his claws to slice them up into multiple mini pieces. “And they sure were confused the whole time.”

“I’m just glad that’s over with.” Kwato voiced very pleased they can put this all behind them now. “At least now we don’t have to worry about getting caught doing embarrassing things on camera.”

“That would have been equally rough considering what everyone went through.” Kambuni agreed.

“And one thing’s for sure, is that Diamond Tiara will definitely have a black mark going forward on her resume. Or fur coat specifically.” Kion added while they all turn to the now ink coated filly having a rough time with the ink pressing machine.

The kids shared a stifled laugh together trying to conceal their laughter. They shouldn’t be laughing but they can’t help find it funny. Especially when she had it coming big time for bullying others and abusing her power because karma always comes around in the end.

Maybe someday, Diamond Tiara will take the hint and learn that it’s not nice to mistreat other ponies. Someday…

Author's Note

As much as everyone and anyone wants to achieve their goals in life, there is a fine line however, in regards of what is acceptable and what is not and over the line which the Cutie Mark Crusaders learned the hard way in their pursuit of their cutie marks in this episode.

Even though they knew they were going too far, they still hoped it would be worth it only to be proven wrong when both worlds give them the stink-eye for their actions. And the worst part about it is they have no choice due to Diamond Tiara blackmailing them.

But still even with the stern talking to from Kion and his family at Pride Rock, they were accommodating to their visit for the night and gave them advice of how to fix this and make it up to everyone and thankfully their Lion Guard fan club friends were able to snag their embarrassing photographs and made sure Diamond Tiara answered for her abuse of power.

Next up is "Beshte and the Hippo Lanes." where Beshte tries to create a new lane straight and true for Pride Landers to cross after the most recent rainstorm while his father rests up his recently injured leg.

Episode 35: Beshte and the Hippo Lanes

Episode 35:

Beshte and the Hippo Lanes

Another rainstorm has come and gone in the Pride Lands, which means another day of hippos creating lanes for Pride Landers to cross the river. The lanes in question involve clearing and pushing down tall overgrown grass in the Flood Plains so animals can safely cross without getting lost or tangled up. They’re usually done shortly after a rainstorm and must be straight and true to from one side to the other side to ensure everyone makes it through no problem.

Basi, Beshte’s father has decided it is time to teach his son how to do them so that he’ll be ready to do them when it becomes his responsibility for when he takes over the job. And so far he is doing well for a first time learner.

“Making the hippo lanes after a big rainstorm has been a hippo tradition for a long time.” Basi told his son while plowing the grass down.

“It sure would be easy to get lost in all these reeds.” Beshte commented while doing the same alongside his father.

“Exactly. Flattening all these overgrown plants helps everyone else cross the flood plains safely. So I try to make 'em straight and true.”

“And that's what they are, straight and true.”

“I do my best. And someday you'll be the one making the hippo lanes!”

“Help! Help! I'm stuck!” A young voice cried out to anyone nearby.

“It came from back this way!” Basi deduced while looking in the opposite direction before leading Beshte towards the source. “Let's go, son!”

The two went back before listening to the sound of the distressed animal’s voice.

“Somebody! Anybody?”

Basi and Beshte quickly took a sharp left upon hearing his voice again.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Help!”

“Where are you?”

“Over here!” The young rhino entangled by the reeds called out.

What he is unaware of is that Makku and another crocodile are right behind him ready hunt him on the spot.

“Mmm. Lunchtime.” The crocodile leader licked his lips.

“We're coming!” Beshte called out to the helpless animal again.

“They'll never find him in this mess.” Makku said to his partner while slowly advancing on their prey.

“This way, Dad!” Beshte called out before turning his attention the hunter. “Hey! Stay away from him, Makuu!”

“Makuu?” The young rhino gasped.

“Think about it, Beshte.” Makuu reminded while getting face to face with him to intimidate him. “There's two of us, and only one of you.”

“Back off, Makuu.” Beshte warned him still not backing down. “The flood plains are a safe zone after a rainstorm.”

Makuu rolled his eyes to dismiss his warning…at least until Basi quickly got face to face with him to chastise him.

“You know Beshte's right, Makuu.” He said to back up his son there.

“Hippos... Always obeying the rules.” Makuu grumbled angrily before backing down. “Come on. One little rhino's not worth the effort.”

The father and son duo smiled at each other for a job well done once Makuu and his partner swam away from them.

“You sure they're gone?” The young rhino worryingly asked.

“Yup.” Beshte nodded. “So what's the kerbubble?”

“I got tangled up in the reeds and mud. And I can't get free.” He explained.

“Well, maybe you should have waited for me to finish the hippo lanes. Just like all the other animals.” Basi commented with gentle advice.

“But I was in a hurry!” He claimed before sighing knowing he’s right. “I know I should have waited.”

“Don't worry. We'll get you out.” The Lion Guard’s Strongest assured before he and his father moved to untangle him.

Suddenly nearby egrets screeched while flying back startling the rhino greatly.

“What was that?” The rhino panicked while burying his head into the water while accidentally thrusting his horn into Basi’s front left leg who grunted in pain from the impact.

The rhino then gasped for air while Beshte manages to untangle the last reed holding him down.

“There you go!” Beshte told him.

“I'm free! Oh, oh, thank you!” He happily expressed while moving around.

“Don't forget...” Basi started to remind him.

“I know!” He answered while making his way back to dry land. “Wait to cross until the hippo lanes are done.”

“That's right. Won't be long now.” He returned while seeing him off.

“Hey, Beshte!” Kion greeted while the rest of the Guard with a very reluctant Rarity even while wearing a rain coat and rain boots to protect her mane and hooves followed behind them.

“Kion!” He happily greeted.

“Everything okay.” Twilight asked. “We heard an animal shouting for help.”

“Yeah. But it's taking us forever to get through all this muck.” Fuli added.

“Very icky mud.” Rarity also added with disdain for mud to which Applejack rolled her eyes in annoyance with the fashionista’s comment.

“Aww, come on, don’t be such a prissy pants, Rarity.” Pinkie tried to get her to lighten up.

“Don't worry about that.” Beshte assured. “Me and my dad saved the little guy. And scared off Makuu.”

“You and your dad did all that?” Bunga commented very impressed. “Maybe Basi should be on the Lion Guard too, Kion.” He suggested to his friend to which he chuckled in response.

“I don't think so.” He politely declined. “I've got my jaws full making the hippo lanes. And speaking of the hippo lanes, I need to get back to it!”

He moved to do so yet ends up stumbling a little upon taking his first step on his injured leg.

“Whoa! You okay, Dad?” His son asked in alarm to see this.

“I'll be fine, Beshte.” He attempted to assure while remaining persistent on getting the job done despite struggling with his injury. “That little rhino just scratched me with his horn.“

“Dad?” His son told him while Fluttershy flew over and examined his injured leg. “Looks like more than just a scratch.”

“Um, Basi. I don’t think you should be walking on that leg if you’re limbing like that.” Fluttershy told them gently and out of concern.

“I'm afraid the hippo lanes can't wait.” Basi still insisted on pressing forward.

“Dad, there's no way you can make the hippo lanes if you're having trouble just walking.” Beshte implored him to listen to him and Fluttershy.

“I'm afraid you're right.” He then admitted with a sigh.

“So? What's the big deal?” Bunga asked. “The flood plains will dry up soon. There's not a cloud in the sky.”

No sooner he said that, thunder rumbled to indicate another storm on the horizon.

“Want to try saying that again and tempt fate further?” Kyoga asked while giving him the look along with Twilight and Fuli.

“You know what they say. If you don't like the weather on the savannah, just wait a few breaths.” Fuli grumbled due to her strong dislike of getting rained out along with Rarity having a rain outfit to protect herself.

“Beshte? It looks like someday is today.” Basi told his son.

“What do you mean?”

“I've always said you'd take over the hippo lanes someday.”

“But today? Right now?” Beshte asked in surprise. “Dad, I don't know if I can do it.”

“The Pride Lands need those hippo lanes, son. And I know you can do it.” Basi voiced it’s a necessity while placing his faith in him.

“Beshte, you're the strongest in the Pride Lands. We all believe in you.” Kion encouraged.

“You can do it, partner!” Applejack added.

“Right. It's my responsibility as a hippo.” Beshte said with confidence before taking a calming breath. “I'll do it.”

“That's great.”

“All right!”

“Way to step up, darling!”

“That's my boy.”

Twilight, Fuli, Rarity, and Basi all commend him for doing so.

“And I can help!” Bunga offered while struggling to push down and pull a single reed from the river. “It's really stuck in there.“

“Come on, Bunga.” Kion told him. “Something tells me we'd only slow Beshte down.”

“And that we are better off leading this to the professionals.” Twilight added.

“And you know I'm never one to slow anyone down!” Fuli added in agreement.

“Me neither.” Rainbow shared while fist bumping with the cheetah.

“Thanks, guys.” Beshte thanked his friends for the support.

“We'll help your dad get back to solid ground so he can rest.” Kion told his friend while leading the way.

“Sounds good to me.” Basi accepted with Beshte and Fluttershy walking alongside him to make sure he can at least walk up to the slanted rock platform not far from where they freed the little rhino so he can avoid putting weight on his leg.

“Thank you, Lion Guard. I'm sure if I stay off it, it'll heal up quick.” Basi told the gang while getting comfortable on his resting place.

“Happy to help.” Kion returned when the Guard’s Keenest of Sight flies over to meet with them.

“Everyone! Everyone! We've got a problem. There's another rainstorm on the way!“ He alerted.

“We heard.” Bunga responded that it’s not new news for them.

“It is the rainy season, Ono.” Fuli said in agreement.

“Common knowledge, really?” Kyoga quipped to which Pinkie tumbled into the water laughing while nearly splashing Rarity much to her irritation.

“Pinkie!” Rarity called out to her friend. “Watch it!”

“I’m sorry, but that…” She said in between laughs. “…was a super wicked burn. You just got roasted, Ono.”

She laughed harder while Ono rolled his eyes in annoyance before continuing.

“Yes. But the sable antelopes' grazing grounds were already flooded out in yesterday's rainstorm.”

“So they've got nowhere to eat? That's horrible!” Bunga responded feeling bad for them while Fuli releases a very begrudgingly sigh predicting how they’ll react.

“And if I know the sable antelope, they're probably too stubborn to move.”

“Exactly! They're just standing around in knee-deep water! Even the little baby antelopes!”

“So when the next rain storm comes...” Fuli began with Fluttershy finishing.

“They'll be completely underwater.” She shuddered at the thought.

“They’ll be sleeping there for the rest of their lives if they don't move.” Kyoga added to which Pinkie started to snicker again until the lioness quickly turned and glared at the pony to knock off it since there is nothing funny about that.

“We need to get that herd to higher ground.” Kion stated.

“You should bring them here.” Basi suggested.

“Good idea.” Twilight agreed.

“The herd's on the other side of the flood plains.” Ono pointed out the flaw with that.

“Well, sure.” He acknowledged. “But by the time you go around and lead them back, Beshte will be done with the hippo lanes.”

“Right.” Fuli immediately understood. “Then they can get across the flood plains quickly. Before the rain gets here.”

“Makes perfect sense.” Applejack also got the idea.

“Great idea, Basi.” Kion also liked it. “Thanks for your help!”

“Sure. Just wish I could be out helping Beshte with those lanes.” Basi responded.

“Don't worry, Bigger B. I know Big B can handle it.” Bunga assured with a pat on the lower back.

“Just stay here and avoid putting weight on it.” Fluttershy advised.

“Come on, Lion Guard. Let's go help those antelope!” Kion told everyone while leading the way. “Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

While the Guard takes care of the antelope, Beshte gets started on the hippo lanes.

“Hi, Beshte!” Laini greeted from a nearby rock.

“Hey, Laini.” Beshte returned while approaching her. “Check it! I'm makin' the hippo lanes!”

“Oh, good!” She responded before asking a favor from him. “I've been trying to get across the flood plains all day! Think I could hitch a ride to Ndefu Grove?”

“Sure!” He accepted while letting her hop on his back. “Helpin' other animals is the whole point of the hippo lanes!”

“Aw! Thanks, Beshte.”

“Any time, Laini.”

While it was nice of him to do so, what he doesn’t realize is that he is straying away from the current lane he was working out.

Elsewhere, the Guard has managed to find the antelopes still in their flooded grazing grounds and hadn’t budged an inch even with another bad storm headed their way. Kion upon seeing them wasted no time giving them orders.

“Antelopes, listen up! You need to follow us to higher...”

“And drier!” Bunga quickly added.

“...ground. Let's go!” The Guard’s Fiercest finished although the antelope leader isn’t taking kind of the order even though bad things are in store if they don’t listen to them.

“"Let's go?" Maybe we don't want to go. Maybe we're fine right here.” He responded with his head up high.

“Fine?” Fuli inquired while getting face to face with him. “You're knee deep in water. You really need to come with us.”

“Do we now?”

“Yes you do.” Kyoga spoke up in agreement. “Because there's another rainstorm on the way. The water here will only get higher!”

“So follow us. Come on!” Fuli urged them to do so but he refuses to move.

“We don't take orders from you.”

“But you all will drown here if you stay.” Fluttershy protested.

“Come on, please?” Twilight implored with him to listen to reason while sympathetic and understanding of his attitude. “I know you're tired and hungry. But if you follow us to higher ground, there will be plenty to eat. And you won't be standing around in water.”

He opened an eye while softening up a little upon the unicorn’s polite request with a female antelope approaching him in agreement with the Guard’s reasons.

“It might be nice to get the young ones out of the water, Bupu.” She advised and urged him to listen while his son gave him a pleading look.

“Okay.” He relented.

“You heard Kion and Twilight.” She told him pleased with his response. “Let's follow the Lion Guard!”

“Was that so hard?” Fuli asked also pleased herself.

“Let's go anty-lanty-lope!” Pinkie told everyone cheerfully while they all make their way up higher ground.

“Ono, Rainbow, report.” Kion asked of them while he and Twilight lead the way.

“So far so good, Kion.” Rainbow reported back before Ono spotted something else.

“Wait a tick... Rock slide!” He alerted everyone.

“Back! Everyone back!” Kion quickly told the antelopes.

“What is it with you?” Bupu irritably asked not aware of what’s headed their way. “You just told us to follow you.”

Before anything else, the rocks fell right in front of them to cut the herd off from the Guard.

“Anyone hurt?” Twilight asked everyone from their side.

“Nope.”

“Fine.”

“We’re good.”

Bunga, Fuli, Applejack reported on behalf of the team.

“We’re okay, too darlings.”

Rarity reported from the other side with Fluttershy and Pinkie with her and the antelope.

“Ono, Rainbow, how's the herd?” Twilight then asked of the flying pair.

“They look fine.”

“But there's no way they can get past those rocks.”

The two reported.

“Is there another way around?” Kion asked.

“I don't see one. And it looks like the storm's coming in fast!”

“If only I can control the weather here I could help delay it but this is the Circle of Life here.”

They responded empty-winged and hooved.

“Too bad Beshte's not here. He could move those boulders easy.” Fuli commented.

“We don't need Beshte.” Bunga asserts it wouldn’t be a problem. “Kion can just Roar that rock away. Right, Kion?”

“I could, if the antelopes weren't on the other side of it.” Kion pointed out.

“Oh, yeah.”

“Not a problem ya’ll.” Applejack assured while stepping forward to the rock pile. “The Pony Guard’s strongest and most honest pony's got the cheat on this here mess.”

Applejack moved on buck and remove the rocks blocking the way one by one with Twilight using her magic to join in on helping her out.

Back in the Flood Plains, Beshte is working hard in removing a boulder blocking their way. By this point, he had already accepted more favors and giving some more Pride Landers some rides too along with Lanini.

“Excellent work, Beshte.” The young aardvark commended.

“I didn't think he was going to make that one.“ The female yellow wagtail commented.

“What are you talking about? He's Beshte! Strongest in the Pride Lands.” The frog sitting alongside her commented without any doubt.

“I suppose.” The bird came to see that. “But I was afraid we were going to get stuck.”

“Don't listen to her.” The frog then told Beshte. “You're doing a dandy job.”

“Heh-heh. Thanks, Chura.”

“Except I was headed that way.” Chura quickly added while moving onto his snout to redirect him another way.

“No problem. I'll get you there in a jiffy.” Beshte responded while turning to do so.

“Oh. Then can you drop me off over by Ndefu Grove?” Lanini also asked of him.

“Sure thing, Laini.”

“You sure you don't mind?”

“’Course he doesn't mind! It's no problem for the strongest in the Pride Lands.” Chura again reminded.

“Aw. The whole point of the hippo lanes is to help animals get where they need to go.” Beshte told everyone before singing a song on the way there to pass the time.

Makin' Hippo Lanes

“Thanks for the ride, Beshte.” Chura thanked.

“Any time, Chura.”

“Oh! My den's not far from here. I'll get off, too. You mind? Thanks again.” The aardvark thanked before heading out on dry land.

“My pleasure.” He kindly returned. “But I better get goin' and make another lane back to the other side.”

“You're going to the other side?” A female hare spoke up from nearby. “Perfect! Just drop me off at the patch of bristle grass on the other side.”

“Sure thing.“ He gladly accepted to help her out.

“Good thing you came along, Beshte, or I never would've gotten across the flood plains.” She told him while Beshte makes his way back to resume the job.

Back at the rocky path, both Twilight and Applejack have managed to clear the path but by then the antelope have decided to sit on the haunches.

“All right, ya’ll. The path is now clear and ready for walking again.” Applejack happily announced. “Now let's get you to the flood plains.”

But even still they weren’t budging.

“Hello? The path is clear!” Fuli quickly rushed over to make it clear they can go now.

“We've already come so far.” Bupu sighed not wanting to go further.

“Seriously?” She remarked in annoyance with their stubbornness.

“I suppose we could follow a little longer.” Bupu then reluctantly pressed forward while leading the herd and following the Guard.

“Un-Bunga-lievable.”

“These sure are stubborn ante-lantly-lope!”

Bunga and Pinkie commented.

“They sure are.” Rarity agreed.

“I just hope we beat that storm.” Fuli just hoped they’ll cooperate long enough for the sake of their trip though while Fluttershy wonders if they should be showing a little more kindness to them with the thunder and lightning growing louder by the minute.

Thankfully they were able to make it to the hippo lanes where they’d meet up with Beshte when he was down.

“Almost there. We just have to take the hippo lanes across the flood plains.” Kion told everyone just when they arrive with Rainbow and Ono flying ahead to take a look. But found one major problem with the job Beshte did.

“Are you seeing what I’m seeing.” Rainbow asked Ono who nodded his head in response.

“This can't be right.” Ono commented. “We better talk to Beshte.” He then used is keen sight to quickly spot Beshte walking by towards a nearby slanted rock. “There he is.”

“Hey, Ono! Rainbow!” Beshte greeted the two flyers.

“Beshte? Um... So, are you all done with the hippo lanes?” Ono asked.

“Sure am.” Beshte answered. “Whew. I must've gone back and forth I don't know how many times! But I got to talk to a lot of nice animals along the way.”

“From the looks of it you sure did.” Rainbow remarked before figuring out how to break it to him while gesturing him to get up on the nearby rock. “And we know you've been working hard. But…you might want to a look at your work in progress.“

“I didn't think of that.” Beshte realized before doing so and sees the maze like creation he did while he was distracted.

“Oh, no! I must've gotten distracted by all the rides I was giving. Those lanes aren't straight and true at all! I let everybody down.”

“Well, at least they're kind of pretty. That one kind of looks like a flamingo.” Ono tried to compliment them to make him feel better to no avail.

”But hippo lanes aren't supposed to be pretty. Hippos lanes should be straight and true. And useful!” Beshte pointed out.

“Would this be a bad time to point out we just brought a herd of antelope to travel across the Flood Plains?” Rainbow asked rather awkwardly.

“A whole herd?” Beshte was alarmed to hear this. “If they go into the flood plains now, they'll get totally lost!” He moved to start over. “I gotta make a new lane. But what if I mess it up again?” He briefly pondered out loud. “No! I can do this.” He said while setting out to resolve this while turning back.

“Uh, Beshte?” Ono called out to him to point out that he is twisting and turning his lane creation yet again.

“Ah! I did it again!” Beshte gasped. “Dad's going to be so disappointed.” He then said in worry before getting an idea. “Wait. Dad'll know how to fix this! I gotta go talk to him. Ono, go warn Kion and Twilight. Don't let any animals into the lanes yet.”

“Affirmative!”

“I’ll come with you.” Rainbow said to him while flying after the hippo. “Maybe I can help give you an extra set of eyes.”

“Tag along, Rainbow.” Beshte accepted without hesitation.

While the two fly over to the hippo’s father, the Guard has arrived at the Flood Plains ready to lead the antelope across.

“This way. This way. Step right up. One new Beshte-made hippo lane for all your crossing pleasures!” Bunga started leading everyone to the lanes. “Moms and babies first!”

The mother antelope and her son went inside first with Pinkie following alongside them to help guide them through the lanes.

“Okay. Now you.” Bunga then moved to the next antelope in line when Ono quickly arrives.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Everyone! Wait! Don't go in the hippo lanes!” He quickly alerted in alarm.

“Ono? What's going on?”

“And where’s Rainbow Dash?”

The two leaders asked.

“The lanes! They're not exactly straight and true. More like a curly elephant's trunk. Actually, they're more like a bunch of elephants' trunks. All twisted up together. And stuck in a Baobab tree's roots.” Ono explained to them the problem.

“But I just let an antelope and her baby go in with Pinkie Pie!” Bunga told him.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped. “They'll get lost in there!”

“Not if we can help it.” Kion vowed otherwise before giving orders. “Bunga, Fuli, Fluttershy, Kyoga, Rarity you all stay here. Don't let anyone else in. Ono, Twilight, Applejack, you're with me.”

“Let’s go!” Twilight followed after Kion while Applejack does the same.

“Right behind... Uh, above you, Kion, Twilight.” Ono returned while stumbling on his words.

“So we're not going in now?” Bupu then sighed again in annoyance before complaining. “All day they've been telling us what to do. "Get out of the water so you won't drown." "Follow us to higher ground so you won't starve." "Don't get hit by falling rocks." I don't know about you, but I'm sick and tired of being told what to do!”

“Are you serious? Those were all good things!” Fuli could not believe and understand why he has a problem with all of this regardless of the situation just when thunder and lightning strikes with rain immediately coming down to the ground.

“Now I bet you're going to tell us to get out of the rain.” He further complained while turning away from the cheetah. “Well, we're not going anywhere!”

“All right.” Kyoga accepted since they don’t have any other options at the moment.

“Good.” Fuli felt pleased there.

“Yeah. That's kinda what we wanted.” Bunga added.

Beshte and Rainbow have both made their way back to the rock where the former’s father is currently resting on where Beshte explains to him of what happened during his attempts to create the hippo lanes.

“So, now the herd is waiting on the other side. I let everyone down. Especially you.” He said to Basi feeling ashamed of himself.

“Aww, you didn't let anyone down, Beshte.” Basi quickly refuted his son’s dejection. “If anything, I let you down. I never should have sent you out there alone, son.”

“And if it’s any conciliation, this is your first time in creating them and you helped everyone you came across safely no problem.” Rainbow also added to help make him feel better. “So I think you have nothing to feel bad about.”

Beshte smiled feeling encouraged by his father and friend with the former moving to stand up and walk, only to feel pain when he tried to take put weight on it.

“Dad, your leg!” Beshte exclaimed in worry while running up to his side to help him along with Rainbow.

“Are you sure you’re okay enough to help out on that leg?” Rainbow asked. “Because it’s still looking a little bad there.”

“Yes, I’m sure.” Basi nodded to the peagsus before turning back to his son. “Son, you're the strongest hippo in the Pride Lands. Look. If you'll help me, I'll help you.” He then offered to which Beshte was eager to accept.

“Of course I'll help!”

“All right. Then together we can make a lane straight enough, true enough, and wide enough to get that whole herd through.”

“And this time, I’ll be floating over your shoulders for extra eyes and hooves in case anyone gets in the way.” Rainbow confidently added while pounding her hooves together. “The bad guys, of course.” He quickly added to the confused hippos to clarify what he meant.

“Poa!”

Elsewhere, Ono has led Twilight, Kion, and Applejack to the baby antelope who was at the moment drowning. Luckily for him, Kion quickly dove in the water to push him back to dry land to save his life.

“You okay?” He asked him who bleated to confirm it. “Now where's your mom?”

“She was right behind me!” He answered to when the others heard her along with Pinkie's cries for help.

“Help! Somebody help!”

“I'll go look for her.” Ono immediately volunteered before being stopped by Kion.

“No, Ono! Stay with this little guy. Guide him back to safety.” He told him.

“Applejack, you do the same.” Twilight asked of the cow girl. "We'll take it from here."

“You got it.” Both Ono and Applejack nodded while Kion and Twilight run off ahead.

“Don't worry. We'll find your mom and Pinkie too.” Twilight called back to the baby antelope before she and Kion began their search.

“And we’ll help you find your way out. Follow us.” Ono then turned to him while making their way back to where the rest of the Guard is still standing.

“And stay close partner.” Applejack also advised.

“Help, please!” Both Boboka and Pinkie called out again.

“We're on my way!” Kion responded while following the sound of their voices.

Elsewhere, Beshte and Basi with Rainbow flying overhead proceed to make a nice straight path in the reeds when the adult hippo suddenly grunted in pain.

“Dad, you okay?” Beshte asked.

“I just need to stop and catch my breath.” He answered. “You keep going, Beshte. I'll be right behind you. We're already halfway across. I know you can do it.”

“Okay, Dad. And this time they'll be straight and true. I'll make you proud.” Beshte vowed before heading straight forward with Rainbow following behind him to make sure he knows what to know from here. “Twende Kiboko!”

“You always make me proud, Beshte. I'll be right behind you!” Basi called out to him before settling down in the water to rest for a moment unware that Makuu is secretly sneaking up behind him. And this time he’s brought back-up with him.

“Get rid of the hippo, get rid of the rules. Then we can do whatever we want in the flood plains.” Makuu sinisterly whispered to his followers before advancing on Basi.

Back where Fuli, Bunga, Kyoga, Rarity, and Fluttershy are with the antelope were their leader is getting more and more restless with what is going on right now.

“We could've stayed home and been soaking wet there. Ugh.” Bupu further complained.

“True, but you would have drowned back there.” Kyoga patiently told him. “Surely you realize we had to get you out of there.”

Bupu simply huffed in response further trying the cheetah’s patience with him.

“We'll tell you when it's safe to go. For now, do you think you can just stand there and be quiet?” Fuli implored of him to which he responded by sitting on his haunches in refusal. “Not again! Stand up!”

“What a surprise. The Lion Guard is telling us what to do.” Bupu sarcastically remarked with the rest of the herd following suit which further increased Fuli’s irritation at their stubbornness.

“Come on! Get up! You heard me!” She barked at them to do so while struggling to budge him.

“Do this. Do that.” He commented while still holding his ground.

“Um, Fuli…” Fluttershy softly spoke. “…maybe you shouldn’t do that.”

“Do what?” Fuli irritably returned when Ono and Applejack return to them with the baby antelope.

“Fuli, what are you doing?” Ono asked.

“I'm trying to get this stubborn antelope to stand up.” Fuli answered with Bupu tuning out her voice by saying “Blah, blah, blah.”

“Hey, everybody!” Beshte then greeted everyone with Rainbow joining him.

“Beshte!

“Big B!

“Rainbow!”

Fuli, Bunga, and Applejack greeted them.

“Boy are we glad to see you both.” Rarity greeted them.

“We did it, Dad! Straight and true!” Beshte told his father who he thought was behind him. “Dad? Dad?” He suddenly saw his father fell behind and quickly went back to find him.

“Where's he going?” Fuli asked.

“Back to meet up with his dad who briefly stopped to rest his leg.” Rainbow answered.

“What?” Fluttershy softly exclaimed. “But we told him to stay there.”

“It’ll be okay.” Rainbow assured. “He can walk around on it a bit.” She turns back and sees Fluttershy’s worrying look. “But I’ll go back to make sure he’s okay.”

While Rainbow flew off ahead, Ono ascends up in the sky and used his keen sight to examine the new job Beshte did on his hippo lane.

“Oh! He did it! Beshte's new hippo lane is straight and true. All the way across the flood plain!” Ono reported back to everyone.

“Ya hear that? Beshte's showing us the way! Come on, everybody! Follow that hippo!” Bunga happily declared to the herd.

“But the flood plain looks so wet.” Bupu further remarked.

“You're already wet! We're all wet!” Fuli angrily argued.

“Here we go again. Go on, yell at us. Just like you've been doing all day.” Bupu responded while turning his head away.

“Now come on, darling.” Rarity urged them to listen while walking up to him. “I know this journey has been long and tiring. And the truth is I don’t like being out here even when I have this here rain coat nor like having my precious mane soaked from time to time. But even so I still come out on patrol to perform my duty to the Pony Guard and I am perfectly willing to get my mane wet and hooves dirty when push comes to shove.” She further explained. “And we had good reasons to have order you to move because if we hadn’t you all would have been crushed by that rockslide earlier or would have drowned back at your now former grazing grounds.”

“I’m sure Fuli didn’t mean to give you a really hard time as much as you’ve been giving her a hard time too.” Fluttershy suggested to him while turning to Fuli to try to get her to show some kindness for once just to appease him.

Fuli calming down for a moment while listening to Fluttershy’s advice then decides to do so as she speaks to them. “Okay. Sorry I yelled. It's been a long day. And I know you're all tired, wet, and hungry. Truth is, so am I. But if you want to be a little less wet and get something to eat, you can just use that hippo lane to get across the flood plain. Please?”

Bupu opened his eyes in response with a softened look back to the cheetah for her apology. “That's all we wanted to hear.”

“Really?”

“Of course! It never hurts to be polite.” He positively answered while turning to his herd. “You heard the cheetah. Let's go, everybody!”

He got up and lead everyone into the Flood Plains with Bunga and Applejack directing their down the straight and true path Beshte created.

“Go! Go! Go!”

“Just keep on going straight,y’all.”

Both Bunga and Applejack instructed them while the baby antelope returns with his mother with Twilight, Kion, and Pinkie walking alongside them.

“There you are! Don't ever scare me like that again.“ She reunited with him in relief while the others turn their attention their friends.

“What's going on?” Kion asked.

“Beshte did it. This one goes straight across the flood plain.” Fuli answered.

“Finally, something's gone right today!” Kion remarked while seeing the last of the antelope going down the correct path.

“I take it you both found the antelope’s mother okay.” Fluttershy asked the two leaders.

“We did, along with helping Pinkie who somehow managed to get tangled in the reeds along the way.” Twilight happily answered while briefly facing Pinkie with an annoyed look who just sheepishly grins.

“What? It’s not my fault the path Beshte created was so confusing.” Pinkie said in her defense to which no one had anything to say about because of how true it is.

Basi meanwhile has managed to start to move and to catch up to his son even with his injured leg.

“Gotta go help Beshte.” He said to himself while groaning in pain.

“What's the hurry?” The crocodile leader told him while making his presence known before advancing on him. “We've got a nice, big meal planned. And you're the guest of honor.”

Luckily for him, both Beshte and Rainbow arrived on the scene and both came to his defense.

“Makuu! Leave my dad alone!”

“Yeah, pick on somebody your own size!”

Both Beshte and Rainbow warned him to back off.

“This time we've got numbers on our side. And we're crocodiles!” Makuu again dismissed their warnings while barring his teeth.

“We can handle 'em, son.” Basi assured his son while Rainbow raises her hooves ready for a fight.

“But Dad, you're hurt.” Beshte reminded him as the crocodiles corner them.

“Nowhere to run, hippos!” Makuu taunted with an evil chuckle.

“Think again, Makuu.” Rainbow boldly returned while prepared to charge at him.

“Wait, Rainbow!” Beshte halted him while holding up a hoof to get her to lean in for a whisper because he had another idea in mind.

Rainbow was at first confused until his expression turned into an eager smile upon listening to him.

“I think we need a new lane, Dad.” Beshte then told his father. “Stick with me! Twende Kiboko!” He led the way with Rainbow blowing a taunting raspberry back at the crocodiles.

“Can’t catch us, tough guys!” She taunted back before flying away to catch up with the hippos leaving Makuu angered by being mocked like that.

“You can't escape that easy!” Makuu angrily returned before leading his float in their direction. “After them!”

Beshte led Rainbow and his father straight down the main path before quickly turning around and going off the main path.

“What are you doing, son? Straight and true, remember?” Basi questioned and then reminded him in confusion not clear of his angle to deal with the crocodile float.

“Not this time, Dad. Trust me.” Beshte returned that he knows what he is doing.

Beshte and Rainbow lead Basi around a junction loop back across the main path with the crocodiles following after them.

Halfway across, the crocodiles suddenly see the herd of antelope charging right at them.

“Dive! Dive!” He urgently ordered his float to do so upon realizing they have no time to get out of the way and have to take in a light trampling of the herd.

“You hear something?” Bupu asked the antelope running alongside him while they unknowingly trample Makuu.

“No.” He returned while they continue making their way across the Flood Plains.

“Good thinking, Beshte.” Basi complimented his son with a chuckle seeing the crocodiles getting trampled like that.

“Yeah, I never would thought of that.” Rainbow added while chuckling at the crocodile’s misfortune before the three approach Makuu who is still dazed from the trampling he just took in.

“Makuu? We went to a lot of trouble to make these lanes nice and safe for everyone.” Beshte reprimanded him while the three glare at him. “So why don't you use them and get outta here!”

“Now!” Rainbow added with a punch to the face to knock him away deep into and halfway across the Flood Plains. “And that was for last time, Makuu!” She shouted after him while he plopped into the water again in defeat before passing out into the water. “Payback sure feels good.” Rainbow then said satisfied while both hippos chuckle in amusement seeing that was a pretty good sight to see.

Sometime later, the rainstorm had finally stopped and everyone made it to the other side. The antelopes were now resting comfortably and getting something to eat now that their long journey has been completed. By then Rarity had taken off her raincoat seeing she no longer really needs it anymore seeing that the rains are completely gone for now. Sure, it was long and tough, but it was all worth the effort to get there. Plus, Fuli learned a lesson about patience and had taken the time to compose another letter for the princess while she was getting something to eat which went along like this.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned a very valuable lesson about patience. Sometimes you meet animals that get on your nerves and can be quite stubborn. But thanks to a friend of mine, I was taught that it never hurts to be polite and if you show a little kindness everyone now and then, sometimes things will work out in the end.

Signed, The Lion Guard’s Fastest, Fuli.”

“Great lesson, Fuli.” Twilight commended her while levitating and rolling up the letter so she can deliver it to her when she and Kion meet up with the princess and the king at Pride Rock for their daily report of how success keeping peace in Equestria and the Pride Lands has been going.

“You guys did a great job.” Kion then complimented the father and son duo.

“I'll say. Everyone loves the new hippo lane!” Bunga added.

“Considering this is your first time doing them, that’s not bad.” Applejack added very impressed herself.

“Guess you're pretty good at making them after all, Beshte.” Ono admitted.

“Thanks, Ono.” Beshte thanked.

“I never had any doubt.” Basi said with a proud smile towards his son for his accomplishment while they along with the Guard all see everyone happily making their way across the Flood Plains safely with the satisfaction of another job well done.

Author's Note

In this chapter, Beshte takes over creating the Hippo Lanes after a young rhino accidentally poked his horn into Basi's leg.

He feels he can do this although his constant detours in helping other Pride Landers turns the Flood Plains into a messed up herd of elephant trunk's maze as Ono described it leading to him feeling like he failed big time. Although considering this is his first time and was on his own both his father and Rainbow got him to understand he didn't let anyone down. In addittion, it actually proves crucial in dealing with Makuu and his float when they attempted to take Basi down while injured.

At the same time, the Guard has been currently dealing with a stubborn antelope leader and it's herd in getting them to move to more safer and drier grounds with Fuli the most snarkiest of the bunch has been butting heads with him throughout the day.

Sure Bupu needed to hear some of these orders but of course as Fluttershy gently and briefly advised, Fuli herself did learn to show a little more patience and politeness towards him and once she did, he was more than willing to listen to her and they all got across the Flood Plains without further squabbles.

Next up is "Ono and the Tickbird." where Ono is using his keen eye to help a rhino when his tickbird has a falling out with him.

Episode 36: Ono the Tickbird

Episode 36:

Ono the Tickbird

“This way everyone!” Ono lead everyone through a field of wrecked trees with a rhino grunting heard from a distance.

“Oh my.” Fluttershy gasped.

“What a mess!” Beshte remarked.

“The rhino's headed for the baboons' tree!” Ono also reported.

“Then we better get there first.” Kion stated.

“On it.” Both Rainbow and Fuli quickly rushed over to the scene but not before coming across and being run over by the family of baboons.

“What just happened?” Fuli asked completely dumbfounded.

“Hapana! We're too late!” Ono exclaimed upon seeing the whole family has fled from their now former home.

“Un-Bunga-lievable! It's raining baboons!” Bunga commented on the sight.

“Good thing I brought my umbrella.” Pinkie cheerfully held up said item to shield the Guard from the family running by them.

“Not exactly. Look!” Ono directed their attention to the rhino with his horn stuck in the tree.

“Hey! That's Kifaru! But he's a nice rhino.” Beshte pointed out and recognized.

“But why is he smashin' into things?” Applejack then asked. “Especially other’s homes like that?”

“I dunno, Beshte.“ Kion answered just as confused as everyone else before nearly dodging another baboon. “But we've got to stop him before he really hurts somebody. Come on!”

He led the team towards the rhino with Bunga sticking back.

“Hey, you know, we could just catch the baboons...” Bunga tried to point out another option before landing flat on his back because of the result of catching one.

“... Or maybe not.” Kyoga quipped before she and Bunga race to catch up with their friends.

“Kifaru! Stop shaking that tree!” Kion ordered of him.

“Don't yell at me.” Kigaru irritably returned. “I didn't put the tree here!”

“Hey, Kifaru? What's the kerbubble?”

“How are you doing?”

Both Beshte and Fluttershy greeted.

“Oh, Beshte. Fluttershy. It's you.” He gently greeted with his tone now softening up. “I'm kinda stuck.”

“Don't worry. Everything's gonna be okay.” Fluttershy just as gently assured him.

“The Lion and Pony Guard's here now.” Beshte added.

“We'll get you loose, Kifaru.” Twilight said. “Then you can tell us what happened.”

“Oh, that would be wonderful.” Kifaru responded very pleased for their assistance before Kion starts giving his team insturctions.

“Beshte, Applejack, you two push the tree that way. Fuli, Pinkie, Bunga, Kyoga, Twilight and I will move Kifaru the other way. Ono, Fluttershy, Rarity you three, watch his horn but don't get too close.”

“Of course.”

“You don't have to tell me twice.”

Both Rarity and Ono took his instructions to heart immediately while watching out for the horn’s sharpness.

“Everybody ready?” Twilight asked of everyone. “Now, go!”

Everyone all grunted as they all moved to push him back and free him from the tree.

“Okay, doing great... So close... Yes!” Ono guided everyone until they successfully removed his horn from the hole in the tree.

“Thank you! You don't know how it felt to be stuck like that!” Kifaru expressed his grateful relief to the group.

“We kinda do!” Bunga squeaked out in pain due to he and Pinkie being sat on by the rhino.

“Oh. Sorry, Bunga. You too, Pinkie Pie.” He apologized with the pink mare wobbling away with stars floating over her head.

“And I thought your pointy end was the dangerous one.” Bunga commented.

“Yet it we were looking at it from the wrong end.” Pinkie commented while stumbling in her footing before falling on her back still jumbled in her mind.

“So what's going on, Kifaru? Why're you causing so much trouble?” Kion asked of him.

“What trouble?”

“For starters, you shook the baboons out of their tree.” Twilight pointed out to the tree they had to free him from.

“So that's what they were shouting about...” He realized.

“Not to mention knocking down a whole bunch of trees before that.” Ono pointed out to the damage he caused.

“Oh... I thought it was odd that so many trees were growing on the path to Lake Matope.” Kifaru further realized upon walking around unaware that he is nearly poking and stabbing the others with his horn.

“Hey! Look out!” Bunga quickly alerted.

“Easy there partner.” Applejack also warned.

“Oh, sorry!” Kifaru sincerely apologized.

“Whoa!”

“Watch where you point that thing!”

Both Rainbow and Fuli quickly alerted while nearly dodging his horn.

“Sorry! Sorry!” The rhino apologized again. “I better be on my way.” He moved to head out yet seems unaware of his surroundings while approaching another tree.

“He's going to run into another tree.” Beshte spoke in alarm.

“It's like he doesn't know it's there.” Kion added confused of why.

“That’s because he doesn’t” Fluttershy gasped along with Ono realizing why.

“He doesn't have his tickbird!” Ono also exclaimed before he and Fluttershy quickly intercept him. “Kifaru! Stop, stop!”

“Ono? Fluttershy? What's wrong?” He asked after stopping himself.

“You tell me.” Ono responded with a question back at him.

“What happened to your tickbird?” Fluttershy asked.

“You mean Mwenzi? Kifaru returned knowing what they are talking about.

“That's right. Mwenzi!” Beshte recalled. “I see you guys together all the time.”

“Not anymore you won't.” He sadly replied. “He left me this morning. No reason or anything. He just flew away.”

“That explains everything!” Ono exclaimed in realization.

“It does?” Bunga questioned.

“Absolutely! Rhinos have very poor eyesight...” Ono began before being cut off by Pinkie.

“Ono! Shh! He's standing right there!” She reminded him.

“Believe me, I know all about it.” He admitted it’s not new news to him. “My eyesight's worse than most rhinos!”

“That's why rhinos partner with tickbirds.” Ono further explained. “The tickbirds ride on the rhinos and warn them about dangers that the rhinos can't see! Common knowledge, really.”

“That's awfully nice of them!” Rarity complimented. “What's in it for the tickbirds?”

“Ticks, of course.” Fluttershy answered to which both Rarity and Fuli uttered a slight groan in disgust.

“And all the other bugs they find on our backs! They eat 'em all up!” Kifaru added.

“Mmm! Sounds like a good deal to me.” Bunga said with delight in his voice.

“Oh, it is!” Kifaru agreed before singing a brief tune about his friendship with Mwenzi.

Tickbirds and Rhinos

Start at 0:25

Stop at 0:50

“So you didn't mean to cause all that there trouble.” Applejack asked. “You just couldn't see where you're going.”

“That's right. I'm really sorry. I was just trying to go to Tamasha.” The rhino apologized with regret in his voice.

“What's Tamasha?” Twilight asked.

“Every wet season, all us rhinos get together near Lake Matope. And we all spar in the mud.” Kifaru explained while speaking the last part tearfully. “It's great.”

“Sorry I asked.” Twilight apologetically returned for accidentally striking a tender chord.

“Poor guy seems awfully sad he won't get to go.” Beshte commented with pity.

“That's why we need to find Mwenzi and get him to come back.” Kion decided.

“But what if we can't find him in time to get Kifaru to Tamasha?” Fuli asked.

“I know! We find him a temporary tickbird to take him there. A tickbird like me!” Bunga proposed.

“You?” Kion asked slightly amused.

“Sure!” Bunga agreed to help Kifaru no problem. “Riding around the savannah with all the bugs I can eat? What could be better? Kifaru! Say hello to your new tickbird! Zuka Zama!”

“Bunga? But you're not a bird!” The rhino reminded him when he hops on his back.

“And no offense, but you’d make a terrible tickbird.” Kyoga backed him up there.

“Trust me! I'll getcha to Lake Matope and have a snack!” Bunga attempted to reassure the lioness who remained unconvinced.

“Okay.” She relented before whispering to Twilight. “Bet ya it wouldn’t last more than fifteen seconds."

“It’d sure wouldn’t.” Twilight agreed while the rhino accepts Bunga’s offer. “More like less than ten seconds.”

“Uh, well, bye, Kifaru! See ya, Little B!” Beshte fared them off with the honey badger snacking on the bugs on his back.

“See ya!” Bunga happily returned while Kifaru walks off ahead.

“I think Bunga's gonna do a great job guiding Kifaru.” Pinkie placed faith in him with Twilight voicing otherwise knowing along with Kyoga what is going to happen next.

“Three, two, one…” She counted down before Ono spotted an alarming sight.

“No, he's not! Kifaru! Kifaru, stop!” Ono quickly flew over and stopped him from stepping over an upcoming cliff with Fluttershy’s animal instincts kicking in and flying in front of him before he could take that one overstep off the edge.

“Huh?” Kifaru said unaware with what almost happened.

“Huh. Look at that.” Bunga casually remarked.

“Kifaru. Step back slowly.” Fluttershy gently advised.

“Uh, okay, Ono. Fluttershy.” Kifaru did as he was told.

“That's it, keep going.” Ono added still slightly alarmed that he might fall over until he was a safe distance from the edge.

“Sorry, Kirafu.” Bunga apologized. “I was having so much fun snacking, I forgot to look where we were going!”

“Oh really?” Twilight sarcastically remarked unimpressed. “And you sure did a great job of nearly leading him over and under. And I don’t mean that as a joke.”

“Wow! Kifaru really listened to you, Ono.” Kion said to Ono impressed.

“Along with you too, Fluttershy.” Twilight added equally impressed too.

“Well, you know. It's a rhino/bird thing.”

“And I too know a lot about animals.”

The two replied it’s what they do best.

“Poa! You two would be great at helping Kifaru get to Lake Matope.” Beshte recommended.

“Definitely!”

“Sounds like a very good idea to me.”

Both Fuli and Applejack immediately agreed.

“Wait. You want us to be Kifaru's tickbird?” Ono questioned in surprise by this proposal.

“You are the keenest of sight and our biggest animal expert...” Kion backed up to say it’s a great idea.

“And you are the best animal expert the Guard has to offer.” Twilight added liking the idea too.

“Which is why you need me to help find Kifaru's real tickbird!” Ono argued.

“Kion and I can track Mwenzi by scent.” Fuli assured him.

“And Twilight and I can sense out his presence with our magic.” Rarity added.

“And I know what he looks like. He's got a bright red beak.” Beshte backed them up.

“But I'm a member of the Lion Guard. I can't just sit around on some rhino's back all day!” Ono further protested this decision in contrast to Fluttershy who is accepting the decision no problem.

“You won't be just sitting around, Ono.” Kion assured his role is much bigger than he thinks it is. “By guiding Kifaru to Tamasha along with Fluttershy, you'll be protecting the Pride Lands.”

“But... But...”

“And protecting the Pride Lands and Equestria is the Lion and Pony Guard's duty.” Twilight added before approaching him for further words of encouragement. “Come on, Ono. You can do it. Do it for Kifaru.”

“All right.” Ono relented.

“Hey, Ono. You, uh, want some tips from a former tickbird?” Bunga offered.

“No he doesn’t!” Twilight firmly refused while dragging him away with her magic.

“Besides, you nearly guided him off a cliff!” Ono agreed without question just as Twilight used her magic to zip Bunga’s mouth closed before he can say anymore.

As Ono flew onto the rhino’s back resigned to his temporary job with Fluttershy flying alongside him. Fuli and Kion get a whiff of the tickbird’s scent while Twilight and Rarity got a good scan of the tickbird so they know where to look too.

“I got the scent. You?” Fuli asked the Guard’s Fiercest who sniffed the rhino too.

“Yeah.” Kion answered while turning to the unicorns. “Got a good read?”

“Yep.”

“Absolutely, darling. Even though I’m not a fan of this sort of thing.”

Both unicorns answered without question.

“Let's go find Mwenzi.” Kion told everyone while leading the way.

“See you later, Ono!”

“Take care, Fluttershy!”

Both Beshte and Rainbow called back.

“Bye.”

Both Ono and Fluttershy returned.

“It’ll be okay, Ono.” Fluttershy again assured the egret who’s still unhappy of having to do this. “It’s not forever.”

“I know.” Ono acknowledged with a sigh. “I just prefer being with the Guard is all.”

“Okay Ono. Which way to Lake Matope?” Kifaru asked.

“To the right.” Ono stoically answered moving up his right wing.

“Righty-o!” He said before doing just the opposite without realizing it.

“No! No!” Fluttershy quickly exclaimed and corrected him. “Your other right! Other right!”

“Oh, my other right!” Kifaru did just that upon realizing his near-mistake. “Why didn't you say so?” He asked Ono who groaned in response.

“This is going to be a long trip.”

Not long during their journey, the rhino started snorting and grunting which further agitated Ono even further while Fluttershy tried her hardest to put up with it.

“Everything okay, Ono, Fluttershy?” Kifaru asked.

“Yep. Everything’s fine. Just keep walking.” Fluttershy gently answered.

“Okey-dokey.” He replied while continuing to snort and grunt along the way which did little to ease Ono’s patience with him.

“Okay. We want to take the path to the right.” Ono then irritably instructed.

“Righty-o.”

But he again performs the same error and goes left instead.

“No, the other right. The other right. It's this way!” Ono shouted before he could get far.

“Okay, okay. You don't have to shout.” Kifaru returned feeling hurt by his outburst. “Mwenzi never shouted. Until... until he decided to leave.” He then turned away and started to cry to which Fluttershy shot a disapproving frown at the egret to make him apologize.

“Oh, I'm sorry. I just...” Ono moved to do so before accidentally bumping into his rear end and fell on his back. “Ow!”

“Ono? I have an itch.” Kifaru said to him.

“Okay...” He returned wondered where he is going with this.

“When rhinos have itches, their tickbirds scratch them. Mwenzi did it for me all the time.” He explained.

“I see. Okay. Where's the itch?”

“Inside my ear.”

“Of course it is.” Ono figured before flying over to scratch it. “There you go. Now...”

“You didn't get it.” He told him unsatisfied before the egret moved to fix his mistake.

“Up a little... Wait, now down just a little...” He told him with Ono starting to lose his patience again.

“Ono? How about I take over and you lead him to Lake Matope.“ Fluttershy offered before he could snap at the rhino again.

“Sounds good to me.” Ono accepted without further protest.

“That’s good. That’s good. That’s better.” Kifaru responded satisfied with the job she is doing until he belching loudly to which Fluttershy quickly turned green in the face. “Oh, excuse me.”

“Glad you’re now satisfied…” Fluttershy told him with a forced smile while placing a hoof to her mouth now feeling very queasy. “…I’ll be right back.”

Ono could only feel pity for Fluttershy when she barfs into a nearby bush. Maybe there is more than meets the eye to why Mwenzi left Kifaru.

“I hope the guard finds Mwenzi soon.” Ono muttered to himself with a sigh hoping that this doesn't last long.

“Ono, I may not see very well, but my hearing is perfect. And Mwenzi would never mutter under his breath!” Kifaru responded with fully attentive ears.

“Sorry.” He apologized again.

Meanwhile, Kion and Fuli both sniff around for Kifaru’s tickbird while the unicorns use their magic to pick up his trail and Rainbow Dash flies around looking for any signs of Mwenzi.

“I think I've seen this tree before.” Beshte commented when they passed by it.

“You have.” Fuli irritably confirmed. “We're just going around in circles. We just can't seem to get a good scent!”

“But our magic picked up his trail around here.” Twilight pointed out.

“Question is, where is he hiding?” Rarity wondered while they along with Kion and Fuli approach a tree getting good sniffs and vibes from it. “Never mind because I’ve just got a strong sense of magic from here.”

“Hey, you’re right! I think Mwenzi's been here!” Kion concluded.

“Yeah. Pretty recently too.” Fuli agreed picking up the same strong sniff.

“Maybe he's still here!” Pinkie suggested before she and Bunga climb up the tree.

“We'll check it out! Zuka Zama!” Bunga volunteered before they search the tree and re-emerged empty-handed.

“Nope!” Pinkie shook her head.

“No sign of...” Bunga began before hearing and seeing a nearby bird. “Hey, look!”

“Is that him?” Applejack asked as it flew by.

“I didn't see it!” Kion responded before it flew by them again.

“There! I saw a red beak!” Fuli spotted.

“It’s him!” Twilight confirmed.

“Big B, you know Mwenzi. Is that him?” Bunga asked while pointing in his direction to make sure they are looking at the right bird.

“I'm not sure. He flew by so fast.” Beshte answered unsure just when the bird flies by again. “Mwenzi!” He didn’t stop nor acknowledge it. “I don't know if that's not Mwenzi, or he's just ignoring me.”

“I have an idea.” Kion spoke devising a plan to get his attention to which they enacted when Mwenzi floated down to take a drink from a nearby river.

“Oh, no! I'm a lonely little rhino covered with ticks! If only I had a tickbird to help me out!” Beshte said outloud while still smiling.

“Very convincing.” Kyoga sarcastically remarked.

“At least he can do a better job than Applejack?” Twilight whispered to Kyoga.

“True.” Kyoga nodded.

“Hey!” Applejack returned slightly offended having heard that. “I could have done a better job if I tried.”

“Could you?” Kyoga asked with an unconvinced expression.

“No.” Applejack admitted true to her element.

“Don't worry, little rhino! I'll help you!” Mwenzi moved to fly onto the hippo’s back before realizing that he was tricked. “Hey! I don't have any ticks back here! What gives?”

“Hey, there, Mwenzi!” The Lion Guard’s Strongest greeted.

“Beshte? But you're not a rhino!” Mwenzi pointed out before being pounced on by Bunga.

“Ha! But you're just the tickbird we've been looking for!” Bunga told him while the rest of the Guard emerges from their hiding spots.

“Uh-uh? Lion Guard? Pony Guard? What do you all want with me?” Mwenzi demanded.

“Sorry we tricked you, Mwenzi.” Kion apologized. “But it was the only way to get you to stop and talk to us.”

“Talk about what?”

“Uh, Kifaru.” Fuli answered.

“Oh. Him.” Mwenzi responded with a tone of disgust. “What about him?”

“Well, without you, he's causing all sorts of damage.” Fuli explained.

“And by lots of damage we mean three acres of trees.” Rainbow said with emphasis.

“He really needs his tickbird.” Beshte added.

“You have to come back to him.” Kion implored of him.

“After what he did? No way!” Mwenzi immediately refused.

“What'd he do, darling? Rarity asked.

“He said you just flew off for no reason.” Applejack mentioned.

“No reason? No reason? Is that what he said? No reason?” Mwenzi responded by flying out of Bunga’s grasp now riled up from what he had just heard.

“So you're saying there was a reason?” Bunga asked.

“No, he’s saying there’s loose feathers up his beak. Yes, he saying there is a reason!” Kyoga sarcastically remarked while Mwenzi is now ticked off and flying around the Guard from what he is hearing from the rhino’s mouth.

“We were running late for Tamasha, and he blamed me! We're always late. It's always Kifaru's fault! But he always blames me! So what would you do?” He then asked Fuli and Rainbow Dash who both immediately answered with a scoff.

“I'd leave and I wouldn't look back.” Fuli sarcastically answered.

“Me too.” Rainbow immediately agreed.

“Ahem.” Twilight promptly reminded them they need to convince him to go back to Kifaru not further drive him away.

“But, uh, that doesn't mean it's what you should do.”

“Even if he pushed you around one too many times.”

They both quickly corrected themselves.

“Yeah, Mwenzi. You and Kifaru were such good friends.” Beshte added. “He seems pretty lost without you. And not just because he can't see!”

“Though he really can't see!” Bunga pointed out it’s true.

“Oh yeah! In fact, it was so bad that Bunga nearly guided Kifaru off of a cliff.” Pinkie randomly added.

“Hey!” Bunga complained. “It wasn’t that bad.” Everyone gives him the look. “Never mind. It was that bad.”

“Doesn't seem like you're doing so great either.” Kion suggested to Mwenzi. “Looked like you were just flying around aimlessly.”

“Kinda of like me under the poison joke flower effects.” Rainbow added with a light chuckle and rubbing the back of her neck upon recallin that memory.

“Well, uh, I am used to having a job to do.” Mwenzi answered.

“Looking after Kifaru, right?” Kyoga asked knowing why that might be.

“Yeah.” Mwenzi admitted.

“Just come with us and talk to him.” Twilight recommended. “Real friends work things out.”

“You really think he misses me?” Mwenzi hopefully asked.

“Of course he does.” Beshte nodded. “Look how much time you spent together. How could he not?”

“Okay.” Mwenzi complied with a sigh. “I guess it wouldn't hurt to talk to him.

”

Meanwhile Kifaru has made another stop along the way so Ono could fetch him some jackalberry leaves. Something that required a long trip for him to get but was able to find them.

“Whew. Here you go!” Ono presented him his requested snack.

“What are these?” Kifaru asked as if they weren’t what he expected.

“Jackalberry leaves.” Ono reminded. “You asked for them. I had to fly halfway across the savannah to...”

“But I like the dark green jackalberry leaves.” Kifaru pointed out.

“How am I supposed to know that?” Ono correctly pointed out.

“Well, Mwenzi knows.” He answered.

“But I'm not Mwenzi!” Ono again corrected him while giving an apologetic sigh to Fluttershy before turning away from the rhino.

“Hmm, you know, Ono... I should actually thank you.” Kifaru then said after a moment of deep thinking.

“You think so?”

“For what?”

Both Ono and Fluttershy asked with the former feeling it’s long overdue.

“Yes.” Kifaru replied. ‘If you weren't so bad at being a tickbird, I'd never know how wonderful Mwenzi really was.”

“Well, you're welcome.” Ono returned before realizing the unintentional insult just as Kifaru turned away. “Wait, what?”

Kifaru then suddenly started panting and gasping for air.

“Ah! Kifaru! What's wrong?” Fluttershy immediately asked the exhausted rhino.

“All this walking's got me overheated.” He spoke in between pants before collapsing on his knees.

“Oh dear!” Fluttershy exclaimed in worry before quickly rushing off to get some water for him.

“Oh! Uh, well, the lake's not too much farther...” Ono quickly told him.

“Mwenzi always make sure I was near mud to cool off.” Kifaru recalled. “Maybe I can dig for some mud.”

“Huh. Here. Let me help.” Ono quickly offered by using his wings to fan him to help cool him off with Fluttershy joining in with a big leaf filled with water.

“There, there, feel better now.” Fluttershy asked while offering him the water in her hooves.

“Oh! Oh, this is nice!” Kifaru then said feeling much more now. “Mwenzi's so much smaller than you two. He could never do something like this for me.”

“Did you just say I was better at something than Mwenzi?” Ono asked with an amused chuckle to which Fluttershy giggled at as well.

“Oh, yeah.” Kifaru confirmed. “Little Mwenzi couldn't do this if he tried. Ono, Fluttershy, you're the best.”

“Aww, stop.” Fluttershy humbly and lightly blushed at the compliment just when the Guard arrives with Mwenzi in time to hear him say that.

“Ono and Flutterrshy are the best?” Mwenzi voiced feeling like he was just suddenly replaced. “I thought you said Kifaru was lost without me?”

“But he was! You should have seen him...” Kion quickly tried to explain which did little to calm him down.

“I do see him! And I see that he's doing just fine! Well, if that's what he wants...” Mwenzi quickly flew over to Kifaru in anger.

“Mwenzi, wait!” Twilight tried to call out to him to no avail.

“…Kifaru!”

“Huh? Mwenzi?” Ono squawked out in surprise of his sudden appearance.

“Mwenzi! You came back!” Kifaru voiced with joy to see him again, although it was short-lived with what he had to say next.

“Only to say this. Goodbye forever!”

“No!” Kifaru cried after the tickbird storming off in a huff.

“Mwenzi, wait!” Ono pleaded.

"It's not what you think!" Fluttershy also tried in vain to stop him with her words alone.

“Mwenzi!” Kifaru desperately shouted after him but he refused to fly back. “Well, Ono. Looks like you two will have to be my tickbird and flying pony from now on.” He then said to the egret which did not sit well with him.

“Mwenzi! Wait, wait! We need to talk!” Ono shouted after him before resolving to fly after him to clear up the misunderstanding since he is refusing to come back and listen.

“Ono, stop! What about Kifaru?” Kion reminded. “It's not safe to leave him alone!”

“Then you all take care of him! I'm getting that tickbird back!” Ono merely returned before flying off anyway.

“Let him go.” Kyoga advised to the Lion Guard leader before he could think of following after and stopping him from leaving. “He’s not abandoning us.”

“Hey, Kifaru!” Bunga quickly greeted while jumping onto his back. “We're back in business! Bring on the bugs!” He then sees there are no ticks to snack on. “Hey! Did Ono eat 'em all?”

“You okay, Kifaru?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, I just lost my tickbird and my backup tickbird.” Kifaru sadly voiced otherwise. “How do you think I feel?”

“It’ll be okay.” Twilight attempted to assure him. “It was just a big misunderstanding.”

“Know what'll make you feel better? Sparring with other rhinos at Tamasha!” Kion then offered in an attempt to cheer him up. “Come on, Kifaru. Let's get you to Lake Matope.”

“Oh, okay...” Kifaru returned with a small warm smile. “Thanks. Maybe Tamasha will make me feel better.”

“Yep. Just the thing to cheer you up.” Pinkie added with a big smile.

“Hop down, Bunga.” Kion told Bunga who immediately obliged before they all head on over where the other rhinos are gathered…

…only to find to Kifaru is straying off again.

“Go straight! Go straight!” Beshte quickly corrected him with Rainbow quickly intercepting him.

“Whoops. My bad.”

Elsewhere, Ono has managed to catch up to Mwenzi who retreated to a tree branch to settle on.

“Mwenzi! Mwenzi! Mwenzi! What are you doing? You can't stay here.” Ono warned him.

“You can't order me around, Ono. I'm not your rhino.” Mwenzi refused to hear him out.

“I don't have a rhino. And I'm not ordering you around. It's just not safe here.” Ono explained why he is telling him this while floating around him. “Makuu and his crocodiles hang out here. If you don't want to get eaten, you have to move!”

“Oh, yeah? Why would I listen to you?” Kifaru angrily fired back with his back turned. “You were trying to take my place!”

“I wasn't!” Ono innocently responded before perching on the branch. “And I couldn't, anyway. The whole time I was with Kifaru, all he did was complain and wish I was you.”

“That's not what it looked like to me.” Mwenzi responded still not convinced.

“I couldn't do anything right.” Ono further insisted otherwise. “Speaking of right, how do you get him to make a right turn?”

“Why should I tell you?” Mwenzi still refused to answer.

“So you couldn't get him to turn right either?” Ono assumed.

“Of course I could!” Mwenzi corrected before turning back to him. “You just make him turn three lefts!”

“Three lefts? Why didn't I think of that?” Ono suddenly realized how much sense it makes. “See, that's what makes you a great tickbird.”

“I did my best. Kifaru never was good with directions.” Mwenzi then said with his mood now lighten up a bit.

“So how do you handle the noises?” Ono then curiously asked. “You know, the...“ He added while imitating the sounds the rhino made.

“No, no, it's more like...” Mwenzi corrected with imitating snorting and grunting to which both birds shared a laugh over.

“Yes! Yes! That's it! That's totally it!”

“Yeah, he's a mess. He's kind of my mess, though.” Mwenzi recalled while singing his memories of his friendship with Kifaru.

“There's something about a tickbird and his rhino.” Mwenzi then said after remembering the good times.

Tickbirds and Rhinos

Resume at 0:51

Stop at 1:15

“You miss him, don't you?” Ono figured he truly does care about him.

“Oh, he drives me crazy, but he's my best friend.” Mwenzi replied that the sentiment is vitriolic. “Does that make sense?”

“One of my best friends is a honey badger. And another is a pony who likes to throw parties most of the time.” Ono could relate with some of his crazy friends. “You should hear the noises they make.”

While both birds bond over their similarities, Makuu secretly stalks them preparing to hunt them down.

“Hmm. Lunchtime.” He said to himself before submerging underwater.

“I'm sure you two can work things out.” Ono suggested that they can press forward with their bond together while placing a comforting wing on him. “Just come back with me and talk to him.”

“You know what? I will.” Mwenzi agreed to which pleased the egret.

“Great! Let's go!”

Suddenly, Makuu used his tail to send Mwenzi flying backwards

“Ah! Ono!” He screamed after the egret.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped upon seeing Makuu readying his jaws towards the targeted bird. “Hold on!” He quickly flew over and snatched Mwenzi away from the crocodile’s jaws and back onto the tree they were standing on.

The good news, Ono saved his life. The bad news, Makuu’s razor sharp teeth injured his right wing.

“Ono, my wing! I can't fly!”

“Just stay here.” Ono advised before flying off. “I'll go get help!”

“Okay, Ono.” Mwenzi stammered while the mean and sinister crocodile evilly chuckles while looking up at the helpless flyer.

At the same time, the Guard has just managed to guide Kifaru to where all of the other rhinos are gathered.

“Hey, look, Kifaru! We're almost there!” Kion told the rhino who is still looking the wrong way.

“Really?” He asked before being corrected by Fluttershy and Beshte.

“Yes, we are here.” Fluttershy kindly answered.

“Take our word for it.” Beshte added

“About time if you ask me.” Rainbow muttered under her breath just when Ono urgently arrives on the scene.

“Everyone, everyone! Mwenzi's in trouble!” He alerted the Guard.

“Who cares about him?” Kifaru refused to acknowledge while walking away.

“Makuu's got him trapped!” Ono quickly added to which quickly changed the rhino’s attitude.

“Makuu the crocodile?” Kifaru reacted with immediate concern. “Mwenzi doesn't stand a chance! I gotta save him!”

He charged ahead to where his tickbird is, determined to find and save him, despite his poor eyesight.

“Any chance he's going the right way?” Rarity asked.

“Mwenzi! I'm coming!” Kifaru shouted in his direction while bumping into multiple trees along the way.

“Amazingly enough, he is!” Twilight answered while impressed that he is doing this all on his own.

”And we better go with him!” Kion stated while she and Twilight lead the way while following after the charging rhino. “Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Back at the tree where Mwenzi is on, Makuu is currently trying to knock the bird off of the tree with his tail to no avail.

“Oh, why don't you just give it up, Makuu?” Mwenzi suggested to him to point his efforts are in vain so far. “I'm not about to fall, and I'm too high for you to reach.”

“I might have a trick or two that'll surprise you.” Makuu said undeterred before submerging underwater.

After a few seconds of sudden quietness which greatly worried Mwenzi, Makuu suddenly leaped up and chomped his jaws on the tree branch, narrowly missing the tickbird before plopping back into the water. Makuu’s bite of the branch left Mwenzi cornered and hyperventilating for his life seeing that Makuu has him dead to rights now.

“You won't be so lucky next time.” He told the now panicking bird.

“There won't be a next time, Makuu!” Kifaru called out to him while attempting a charge at him.

“Kifaru? You came for me?” Mwenzi voiced greatly pleased to see him although his relief was short-lived when the rhino’s poor eyesight cuased him to crash and get his horn stuck in a dead tree.

“Nice try, rhino.” Makuu chuckled in amusement of his futile attempt. “But this does change things. It's no longer a small snack...”

By making a crocodile growling noise with his mouth in the water while he does it he summons three more crocodiles to his side so they can all take down the trapped rhino.

“A great big meal like this is gonna take more than one croc to bring down!”

“Just wait till I get loose, Makuu!” Kifaru defiantly responded while still struggling.

“No, I don't think we will.” Makuu remained unconvinced before preparing to approach him.

“Think again, Makuu!” Kion called out to him while he and the rest of the Guard arrive on the scene ready for a fight to defend their friends.

“Oh, the Lion Guard...” Makuu groaned rather annoyed with a roll of his eyes before circling and facing off against both him and Twilight. “This isn't your business, Kion. And it’s not yours either, Twilight. Back off!”

“No chance, Makuu!” Twilight nor Kion refused to back before the lion cub pounced on the crocodile with the unicorn following it up with a magical blast to the face.

One of the other crocodiles tried snipping his teeth at Ono and Fluttershy who both effortlessly dodged his attempts before the latter performed her stare on him so Ono can relentlessly peck at him into submission.

“Huwezi!“ Fuli shouted while she and Kyoga leaped over another crocodile with Rainbow quickly greeting him with a punch to the face.

“Pick on someone your own size!” Bunga taunted the two crocodiles now attempting to charge him before being greeted by the charging hippo with Pinkie backing him up with her party canon.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“See ya later alligators!”

All while this is going on, Kifaru still is stuck even with all of his hard-fought attempts to break free. Seeing this Mwenzi, quickly leaped off of the tree so he approach and help him out.

“It's okay, Kifaru! You can do it!” Mwenzi encouraged.

“Mwenzi?”

“Move your foot back and to the right!” He instructed him. “Your other right! Your other right!” He quickly corrected him when he moved his foot in the opposite direction.

“Got it!” He did as he was told.

“Now brace yourself against that rock and pull!”

Kifaru grunted while doing what he was told before finally freeing himself and knocking away a crocodile that was about to attack his friend.

“Mwenzi?” He asked thinking he hit somebody by accident. “Uh-oh! What'd I hit? Sorry!”

“No, you did great!” Mwenzi voiced otherwise with a compliment. “Keep swinging! Keep swinging!”

Kifaru followed his advice before knocking away the crocodile cowering in fear of Fluttershy’s stare before knocking away the other crocodile with his snout tied up and restrained by Applejack and Bunga.

“Un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga remarked very impressed while Makuu now sees that they have lost this battle with the rhino now free.

“No meal's worth this. Forget it!” Makuu growled in defeat before turning away to leave.

“Too late, Makuu!” Kifaru refused to let him walk away scot-free for what he did before charging and knocking him into the river with the dead tree log along with it. “That's what you get when you mess with my best friend.”

Mwenzi reunited with his rhino friend just when the crocodile float leaves with the Guard approaching their friends.

“Great job, guys.” Kion congratulated them.

“Way to charge them away!” Rainbow added very excited from seeing him in action. “Because that was awesome!”

“Thanks. I couldn't have done it without my tickbird.” Kifaru then said giving credit to him for what he has just done.

“And I couldn't have done it without my rhino.” Mwenzi repaid in kind before sharing a brief song and nuzzle together to which Rainbow made disgusted facial expression from behind to which the others chuckled upon noticing.

Tickbirds and Rhinos

Resume at 1:15 to the end

“Uh, Ono?” Kifaru said to the egret standing next to them. “I'm sorry, but you can't be my tickbird anymore. I hope you're not too upset.”

“Oh, I think I'll manage.” Ono took it in stride while completely relieved that it is no longer his responsibility to which Fluttershy giggled and patted his feathers with his response.

With their friendship now rekindled, everyone all made their way over to where the Tamasha is being held where two rhinos lock horns and wrestle with each other in the center of the mud pit while the other rhinos cheer them on.

“Yeah! Go!” Kifaru cheered for them before his tickbird quickly turned him around after whispering into his ear since he was watching with his back turned. “Hmm? Oh. Whoo-hoo! Yeah! Go!”

“Gotta tell ya, I'm surprised to see you here.” One of the tickbirds perched on the rhino next to him said to Mwenzi and recalled. “I heard you two split up!”

“Who, us?” Mwenzi asked before he and Kifaru both stated to assert that their friendship is now a cemented bond.

“Never!”

While Kifaru cheers the wrestling rhinos on, the Guard minus Fluttershy who retired for the day (mainly because she is not a pony who likes seeing other animals fight each other) watch on and witnessed the pair’s rekindled friendship along with the other rhino’s wrestling to which Rainbow took great interest in.

“Aah yeah! Come on rhino’s! Show them what you’re made of!” Rainbow cheered while pumping her hooves up.

“Looks like they're having a really great time.” Kion happily said to the others.

“Totally.” Fuli agreed with a chuckle. “I'm glad they made it here together.”

“I’m glad they both have rekindled their friendship together.” Twilight said in agreement.

“Me too.” Rarity also agreed while wearing her mud boots to avoid getting her hooves dirty.

“I’m glad you’re managing to keep your hooves clean from the dirty work.” Applejack remarked with a chuckle to which Rarity returned while a friendly shake of her head from the farm pony’s friendly teasing.

“It must be great to have a friend with you all the time.” Beshte said to his egret friend perched on his back.

“Yeah! Hey, Ono! Wanna be my tickbird?” Bunga offered while standing on all fours to which Ono laughed it off.

“I'll always be your friend, Bunga. But my tickbird days are over.” He kindly declined in response to which everyone in the Guard all shared a hearty laugh together.

Author's Note

In this episode both Ono and Fluttershy fill in for Mwenzi when he's reached his limits with his rhino companion Kifaru.

Fluttershy is managing fine but of course Ono isn't with how much he has managed to annoy the hay out of him. And that is where Ono sees why Mwenzi flew off in a huff.

But thanks to the power of friendship with the two birds sharing a bond where Ono is able to relate to Mwenzi with his experience dealing with Bunga and Pinkie who can be equally annoying (albeit not intentionally in Pinkie's case.) before coming to an understanding with the tickbird ready to forgive Kifaru and come back to him.

And likewise, Kifaru was more than willing to charge in head on, on his own when he hears Makuu is threatening his friend's life.

Next up is "MMMystery on the Friendship Express." where detective Twilight along with Pinkie and Bunga get to the bottom of a mysterious dessert chowing en route to the national dessert competition in Canterlot.

Episode 37: MMMystery on the Friendship Express

Episode 37:

MMMystery on the Friendship Express

Once a year, there is a national dessert competition in Canterlot and it is now that time of the year. A day where bakers try to show their best hoof made creations from scratch.

Mr. and Mrs. Cake have entered the contest and are preparing a very large and extravagant cake with both Pinkie and Bunga being the first to see what they have prepared for the contest. And both are very excited with mouthwatering eyes with what was in front of them.

“Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness. You've really outdone yourselves, Mr. and Mrs. Cake.” Pinkie said very excited to see it in full glory.

“This is sure to be the winning entry of this year's national dessert competition!” Bunga agreed.

“Oh, thank you, Pinkie and Bunga!” Mrs. Cake thanked them.

“And thanks for transporting it all the way to Canterlot for us.” Mr. Cake added just as thankful.

“Absolutely!” Pinkie happily returned. “It's my honor and I–“

“Uh, beg pardon, but could we maybe move things along?” Applejack kidnly interrupted. “This here cake's a mite heavy. Right, Big McIntosh? Beshte?”

“Eeyup...!”

“Sure is!”

Both Big Mac and Beshte both grunted in pain from the heacy weight of the large cake to where both Pinkie and Bunga quickly donned hard hats with red bright bulbs on them to act as guiders for truck drivers.

“Alrighty then, Big Mac! Beshte! To the train depot!” Pinkie told the two who both carefully carried the cake together while sweating nervously trying hard to not to drop it.

“That's it, Big Mac and Beshte, nice and slow. This is precious cargo you're carrying.” Bunga advised while backing up alongside with Pinkie Pie.

“Yes, it took months of planning and testing.” Mr. Cake agreed while following after them looking on with a nervous and worried look.

“I would hate for it to–“ Mrs. Cake agreed with the same expression when Big Macintosh and Beshte both nearly lost their footing.

“Fall!” They exclaimed with Mr. Cake fainting to his side.

“Don't worry, Mr. and Mrs. Cake.” Pinkie assured before spotting their flying friends approach them. “Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Ono, a little pegassistance along with an extra set of eyes?”

The flying trio all quickly came over to help with the peagsus ponies tying ropes onto the carrying tray so that if the cake tilted too much on one side the peagsus on the opposite side can quickly re-balance it. Ono used his keen sight to quickly motion cues to them so they can make the necessary adjustments.

“We'll get it there safely, you'll see!” Pinkie told the still nerve wracked bakers of the cake they have created.

“Ahahah, oh... of course, Pinkie, Bunga.”

“We never doubted you two.”

The two still voiced their personal doubt when Fluttershy nearly lost her grip on her side of the cake forcing Rainbow to rush over to double down their efforts to stop it from falling over. Mr. Cake once again fainted as a result of the near mess created.

Seeing this, tells Pinkie that they are going to need extra help so that neither Mr or Mrs. Cake suffers an anxiety attack.

“Twilight, Kyoga can we see you two a second?” Pinkie asked them who are both reading and drinking shakes together.

Both were more than happy to come to their aid by working their magic together in creating a protection spell to keep it from hitting the ground.

“A nice protective spell as extra insurance.” She briefly laughed with the Cakes both worryingly shifting their eyes toward both Twilight and Kyoga and the cake giving her the hint to ask for all of the help she can get. “Better safe than sorry. AJ, Rarity, Kion, Fuli, one last thing?” She asked of them to carry trampolines to make sure they could catch it in the off chance it actually did fall.

“All right, everyone and everypony, we're in the home stretch here.” Bunga told everyone with the Cakes watching on completely wide eyed and looking like they are going to have a heart attack with Mr. Cake hyperventilating along the way to the train station.

“See, Mr. and Mrs. Cake? We got it here without a hitch!” Pinkie proudly told them with Bunga opening the train cart door.

“Now all we have to do is get it... “ He then happily stated before noticing the small door size compared to the large cake. “…in?”

Mr. Cake once again fainted for the third time upon seeing another challenge they have to deal with.

Luckily they found a train cart they can open up and after some careful lifting they were all able to get it inside unharmed and in one piece leaving both Pinkie and Bunga finally sighed in relief that the Cakes are calmed down now.

“Thank you all for helping me get the cake safely on the dessert car.” Pinkie gratefully said to the Guard.

“Thank you for inviting us all to go with you to Canterlot for the National Dessert Competition.” Twilight kindly returned.

“Yeah, thanks.” Kion joined in. “This should be fun.”

“I'm sure the festivities will be just lovely.” Rarity agreed while placing a hoof on her chest.

“Phooey on the festivities!” Applejack commented while nudging Rarity on the shoulder. “I can't wait to try all those tasty treats!” She moved to touch the Cakes dessert with her hoof, only for it to be slapped away by Bunga.

“Well you’ll going to have until we get there because this dessert has no room for sampling.” Bunga seriously told him with one of his claws behind his back and crossed so he can secretly sample a bite himself only for Pinkie to slap it away.

“Well, the tastiest treat of all is sure to be the Cakes' Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness. All that rich creamy goodness of the marzipan, combined with the tart tanginess of the mascarpone, blended perfectly with the smooth, silky sweetness of the meringue.” Pinkie explained the cake itself in detail to which had Applejack panting like a dog and Rainbow Dash licking her lips and the others gazing upon the wonderful display. “That's why I call the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness the "MMMM".”

“MMMM.” Everyone else joined in with big smiles coming from Fluttershy and Fuli leaning forward with big smiles really wanting to getting a taste of it with the former flapping her wings rather excitedly. Bunga is panting like a dog like Applejack and Kyoga is licking her lips in excitement at the sight of the enormous treat.

”Exactly. It's the most delicious delectable delightful de-lovely cake in Equestria, and it's sure to win first prize.” Pinkie added while leaping onto the table to stand alongside it.

“Zis is not so,” A French voiced chef said from the doorway to the traincart. A griffon with darker shades of gray feathers on his body to match his black moustache than the lighter shade of gray feathers around his head. He also wore a white chef’s hat and a red ascot “For I, Gustave le Grand, do challenge your crude cake to a duel of delectable delicacies against my...” He then pulled the cover from his speciality dish accompanying with a big bright dazzling light. “...exceptionally Exquisite Éclairs!” The French chef added while placing the dish on the table and twirling his fancy moustache. “They will undoubtedly strike down all ze competition, winning first prize and crowning me le champion.”

“Not a chance, le Grand.” Another pony called out from while earning the cart.

“Donut Joe! What are you doing in Ponyville?” Twilight asked the donut shop owner in surprise.

“Picking up the final all-important ingredient for my contest entry, Donutopia!” He presented a cart carrying six skyscraper models consisting of entirely donuts while adding sprinkles onto his creation. “And with these super-sprinkles, my donuts are going to dunk all the other lousy desserts, steal first prize, and make my donut shop famous forever!” He then added with an evil laugh.

“How very fitting.” Kyoga remarked stoically just when another baking rival shows up.

“Oh, Joe...“ An elderly female voiced with a chocolate mousse moose sliding into the cart. “Your dippy donuts could never out-rival me.” She laughed to which Fluttershy and Ono cringed in fear with Beshte standing in front of them to protect them.

“Hello.” Pinkie happily greeted the chocolate mousse moose thinking the voice came from the moose. “What's your name?”

“I am Mulia Mild.” The lady mule wearing a blue pearl necklace greeted while revealing that she is the one actually doing the talking. “Behold, my Chocolate Mousse Moose. It will trample all your treats, be given first prize, and make me the greatest chef in Equestria.” She then proudly proclaimed with every chef glaring at her thinking otherwise.

“Madame Mild, you and your mousse moose are mistaken.” The griffon cook responded in a confronting manner.

“Your frou-frou éclairs will never defeat my donuts!” Pony Joe intervened in the argument.

“The Cakes' Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness is going to win!” Pinkie happily declared.

“Your simple cake could never take my moose.” Mulia Mild argued when the train whistle that signaled that their ride is heading on over to Canterlot.

“Who would have ever known that a baking competition is such a high stakes competiton?” Fuli remarked to Kion.

“I sure wouldn’t.” Kion said back while Twilight steps forward and in between the glaring baking rivals.

“Well, it sure looks like we're in for a delicious competition tomorrow. Maybe we should all settle in for a good night's sleep.” She then suggested to them to which they all thankfully decided to hold off their grudge match until the big day but not without releases grunts and huffs of anger at each other before slamming their doors angrily.

“I gotta admit I'm pretty beat.” Rainbow then said while yawning and cracking her back along with Fuli.

“So am I.”

“Yeah, I'm gonna hit the hay myself.” Applejack moved to do the same.

“Me too.” Beshte agreed as they all approach the door and all head to their rooms with the only exception being Pinkie and Bunga who both loved the desserts to a passion they really want to be extra sure that the desserts remain in intact long enough for the competition in Canterlot.

They both paced around the desserts with their full attention on them. Bunga held a flashlight in case he needed to shine a light on anyone trying to take a bite of the desserts. But as the long hours flew by slowly, the two got more progressively tired and sleepy eyed. At least until a mysterious figure came flying by them.

”Huh? Stop, you saboteur!” Pinkie shouted after the fleeing culprit all the way to the back of the train ride to the caboose.

“We have you now!” Bunga triumphantly declared while preparing to leap on the cornered figure only to nearly fall off and out of the cart while hanging on to the railing with Pinkie stopped herself just right in front of the railing.

After helping Bunga back onto the train they then saw another figure watching from the door before bolting away from it. Both Pinkie and Bunga were quick to follow after this mystery fleed all the way back to the front of the train. But when they got there all there was the train conductor shoveling coal into the furnace.

So the two went back to the dessert cart without another word or protest and find that the Cakes dessert is still intact.

”Wha? A-ha! Ahh?! Oh! Thank Celestia you're okay! But one of those bakers is mixing up something bad, so I'm not leaving you again no matter what.” Pinkie vowed while sitting her rump down on the floor.

“Me neither.” Bunga agreed while crossing his arms.

But then, someone suddenly pulled the shades down

“Huh? Who turned out the moon?” Pinkie questioned while trying to look around the complete darkness.

“Don't go near that cake, thief!“ Bunga shouted after the mysterious individual in the darkness but was unable to do anything or make anything in the pitch black surrondings until Pinkie quickly pulled open the shades.

“I knew I was going to have to keep a close eye on you, and that's just what I'm gonna do.” Pinkie said determined and feeling her personal suspicions were right.

But no sooner than she said that, she instantly fell asleep with Bunga dropping down to the floor seconds later for the rest of the night.

The next morning at sunrise, the two both woke up while scratching their ears like puppy dogs before seeing the cake in front of them.

“Huh? What? The cake!”

“Oh thank goodness, it’s okay!”

Both exclaimed upon seeing it and realizing they doze off for the rest of the night.

“Oh, MMMM, you look mmmm-marvelous.” Pinkie said while gazing on the tall pastry just when Twilight and Kion both walk in rubbing their eyes and waking up with the first thing they see being a rather surprising and startling sight.

“Whoa!” They both exclaimed.

“I know. I think some congratulations are in order for a job well done.”

“Come on, Kion, Where’s that ‘Good job Bunga!”?”

They both proudly said unaware that their friends have noticed something they overlooked.

“Um, you two better hold off on giving yourself an award just yet, Pinkie and Bunga.” Twilight advised them.

“What do you mean?” Bunga asked clearly confused.

“Look.” Kion gestured them to the side of the cake while Twilight turns it in their direction.

“Look at what? Huh?” Pinkie asked just as confused before seeing the bite marks on the side of the cake which left her gasping in complete shock before screaming off the top of her lungs.

Her scream was so loud it woke up all of their friends who are all still waking up.

“What is it?” Applejack asked half-tired.

“What’s with the screaming?” Ono asked while clearing his ears with his wings.

“What happened?” Rainbow also questioned.

“Yeah, what’s the kerbubble?” Beshte also wondered what is going on.

“It's the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness!” Pinkie pointed to the eaten cake.

“It's been mutilated!” Bunga also cried to which everyone gasped upon seeing the shocking sight.

“Now we just need to find out who done it.” Pinkie then said seriously.

“You mean, who did it.” Twilight corrected.

“Exactly. Who did-done-dood it.” She responded still standing by her word.

“Well, having read many mystery novels, I know that the only way to discover the culprit is to investigate.” Twilight then voiced of what should be the best course of action.

“Exactly.” Bunga agreed while he and Pinkie don detective hats along with small bubble-blowing pipes with two big bubbles popping in front of the Guard’s leader’s faces.

“And as chief detective, that's exactly what I'm gonna do.” Pinkie then stated.

“Uh, you're investigatin'?” Applejack asked with her right eyebrow at the two rather questionably.

“Yes!” Pinkie responded while placing hats on both Twilight and Kion. “And Twilight and Kion shall be our lowly assistants who ask silly questions with obvious answers.”

“Fine, Pinkie.” Kion relented with an annoyed sigh.

“Should we start looking for clues?” Twilight asked with a stoic look on her face.

“Perfect silly question, my dear Twilight, because the obvious answer is...” Pinkie began while cleaning her pipe.

“Yes?” Twilight answered what she thinks should be the right answer.

“No! 'Cause we know who did it.” Pinkie stated while blowing on her pipe again with everyone else minus Kyoga gasping.

“Pinkie, how could you possibly know?” Kion asked.

“Well how could I possibly not know?” Bunga returned with another question. “Clearly this dastardly deed was done by the baker who knew their dessert could not measure up to the mastery of the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness.”

“I guess you feared your éclairs lacked flair, Gustave!” Pinkie then accusingly said right in his face with a false scenario similar to a comical villain from an old cartoon potraying him as an over-the-top villain who commits the crime and then has Pinkie and Bunga tied up on the train tracks for the following train before taking control of the Friendship Express and riding off in high gear.

“Thus, destroying the cake and the Cakes' chance of winning the National Dessert Competition.” Bunga then added while he and Pinkie get right in his face.

“But it makes no sense!” Twilight protested.

“What do you mean, lowly assistant?” Pinkie returned while pointing her pipe in the unicorn’s face before she pushed it away.

“Well, first, if you were tied to the train tracks, how are you now here?” Twilight pointed out.

“Huh... Guess that isn't a totally silly question.” Pinkie remarked while Bunga came to realize that just when Kion takes a turn pointing out another flaw with that theory.

“And second, the cake hasn't been sliced. It's been bitten. Just look at the teeth marks!” Kion pointed out to which both detectives examined them.

“Hm... You're right, my fine fellow.” Pinkie then said with the griffon sighing in relief. “Gustave le Grand is clearly in the clear, which means the "MMMM" was destroyed by another baker. A baker who's donuts are do-nots. That's right, it was Joe!” She then pointed to the doughnut shop owner with an accusing hoof in his direction.

“Seriously.” Fuli muttered under her breath at the wild theories the two are both coming up with while Kyoga just shakes her head before they envision Donut Joe as an intelligent spy who used clever tricks and gadgets to knock out the two with sleeping gas and to slice up the cake after getting by a laser alarm security system.

“Or as he's known the spy world, Mane. Con Mane.”

“Crushing the Cakes' chances to win!”

The two stated while glaring at Donut Joe until Kion pulled both of them away while Twilight again shoots down their ridiculous theory.

“Pinkie! There is no laser beam security system!” Twilight pointed out to the cake again. “And Joe is not sleek, stealthy Con Mane! He's big, gruff, and messy!”

“Hey!” Donut Joe responded rather offended by that last statement.

“Although, you would look rather dapper in a tuxedo.” Rarity brought up to which the unicorn smiled at the thought.

During this, Kyoga noticed that her mane was fully covering her right eye which is something she normally doesn’t do.

“Huh... You may be right, lowly assistants.” Pinkie conceded while walking by them.

“Maybe?” Twilight returned rather incredulous that she would think very little of her while she and Bunga re-examine the cake.

“Now that we are taking a closer look at these desserts, I see that one simply cannot look me in the eye.” Bunga then voiced of his next theory.

“Bunga…” Kion started feeling the need to correct him this time. “... that moose is a mousse!”

“Yes, and the mule behind the moose panicked when she saw the mastery of the "MMMM".” Pinkie added in agreement with the honey badger while placing a hoof on Twilight’s nose.

“So you're saying that the culprit is...” Twilight figured knowing what she is going to say next.

“Mulia Mild!”

She turned to the mule in question with a ninja spy-like theory envisioning her in a black spy suit who stealthily makes her way through the shadows before knocking both Pinkie and Bunga out. Once they were both knocked out she used her sword to cut apart the cake into multiple pieces.

“Putting an end to the Cakes' dreams of taking first prize. Huh, I hope you're proud of yourself, Mulia.” Pinkie then glared at the terrified mule along with Bunga until Kion quickly pulled them away from her face.

“Pinkie, Bunga, stop! This is ridiculous! Look at her!” Kion pointed out to the trembling lady on her knees.

“I guess you're right...” Pinkie again conceded with a sigh.

“Thank you!” Twilight responded pleased that she and Bunga are now coming to their senses.

“But I was so sure that it was one of the other bitter bakers that destroyed the "MMMM".” Pinkie explained her theories while blowing bubbles from her pipe while trotting by said bakers while gesturing to all of the desserts on display. “That way, their delicious dessert would reign supreme. I mean, just look at Joe's Donutopia. It's a spectacular city of donutty delight, topped temptingly in sprinklicious sprinkles.” Everyone gazed upon their glory upon Pinkie’s description of the desserts with Rainbow rubbing his tubby. “And Gustave's éclairs look incredibly edible, with glistening glaziness.” She pointed to said desserts to which Beshte and Fuli smiled in delight along with Fluttershy and Rarity before turning to the chocolate mousse moose. “But then there's Mulia Mild's Mousse Moose. Why, this mouth-wateringly marvelous mousse moose tempts the taste buds with its silky, smooth, yummy-nummy, chocolateyness.” She then further explained while most of the group had their mouths watering at Pinkie’s fully delicious scripted choice of words. “So why did this criminal devour the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness while leaving this trio of tasty treats untouched?”

Suddenly their train ride passed through a dark tunnel and the only things heard during the brief moment of darkness was the sound of munching with another high-pitched scream from Pinkie Pie. When their train emerged from the tunnel everyone all saw that all of the desserts were mostly devoured.

“Now we have no idea who do-doned it!” Pinkie then said just mind-blown that even happened in such a short time span.

“This mystery gets more mysterious every minute.” Bunga also said just as lost as Pinkie.

“Well, you have to stop the wild accusations and get to the truth.” Twilight suggested before taking control of the situation once again. “Everypony go back to your cars while we do a little investigating.” She told everyone who all did so with Rainbow and Fluttershy quick to leave first with the mule glaring harshly at the griffon chef before leaving.

The only ones staying behind are Twilight, Kion, Pinkie, Bunga, and Kyoga.

“Okay, Pinkie, in order to really solve this mystery, we're going to have to find clues.” Twilight began while switching their hats so that she and Kion are the lead detectives with the former cleaning the bubble pipe before blowing into it. “Now Pinkie, Bunga, you both were here at the scene of the crime all night.”

“Huh!”

“You're not accusing me, are you?”

Both Pinkie and Bunga reacted in confusion and feeling offended.

“No, Bunga!” Kion firmly answered while Twilight blew more bubbles from her pipe. “How could it be you if you’ve been guarding the cake all night?”

“Good point.”

“But maybe you two saw something that will help us.” Twilight added that recalling what happened will draw them closer to the actual truth.

“We saw a silhouette in the moonlight!” Pinkie began jogging her own memory.

“Good... Let's retrace your steps.” Twilight told them with the two both walking backwards to which both Kion and Kyoga both shake their heads in annoyance with their literal minded responses with Twilight lowering her head before following them.

“And then I chased the culprit down the train towards the caboose, but when I got there, he was gone.” Bunga continued when they got near the caboose.

Twilight examined the room and then found something that caught her attention quickly placing what she found in her envelope without letting neither Pinkie nor Bunga see it.

“A-ha! Our first clue. I think I know who did it, Pinkie.”

“Already?” Pinkie asked to which Twilight nodded in response while briefly letting Kion and Kyoga see what she has found who both nod their heads upon seeing this.

“Yes, but I need more evidence to confirm. Tell me what happened next.”

“We heard somepony else in the dessert car and chased them up to the engine...” Pinkie started.

“...But, when I got there, all I saw was the conductor shoveling coal.” Bunga finished when they got to the front of the car.

“The conductor, huh?” Twilight examined the hat and founding some surprising evidence inside of it that had her release a small gasp while briefly showing the evidence to Kion and Kyoga again.

“But that doesn't make any sense.” Kion quietly remarked.

“What doesn’t make sense?” Bunga asked wondering what he meant by that.

“What happened next, Pinkie, Bunga?” Twilight then asked while quickly placing the evidence in her envelope and the conductor’s hat back on his head.

“Well... we went back to the dessert car…” Pinkie began while leading the group back there to re-examine the place with a magnifying glass and switched hats with Twilight.

Of course, Twilight did not approve of her trying to take control of an investigation that she is in charge of and re-switched them after giving Pinkie the look.

“What else?” Kion asked of them for more details to work with.

“The curtains mysteriously closed, all on their own.” Bunga finished.

“Interesting. Anything else?” Kyoga asked while scratching her chin.

“We heard hoofsteps, a loud thud...” Pinkie demonstrated while bumping into the wall nearby the portrait. “...and then they were gone! When I opened the curtains, I saw that the portrait by the door was all crooked.”

Twilight walked up to said portrait and noticed something very particular about it.

“Oh my, what is that?” She wondered while quickly enclosing the extra detail in her envelope while keeping the evidence out of Pinkie and Bunga’s curious sight to which had Pinkie growling and steamed in response.

“What next Pinkie, Bunga?” Twilight asked.

“That's it. We were here guarding the cake the rest of the night.” She happily answered which is meant with an unconvinced look from the unicorn and lion cubs. “We mean... we slept by the cake the rest of the night.”

“And when you woke up, half the cake was gone?” Kion asked.

“Exactly.” Bunga confirmed.

“So what you are thinking?” Pinkie asked Twilight who studies the cake along with the evidence for a moment before nodding at Kion and Kyoga who are both coming to the same conclusion.

“By Jove, I think I've got it.” Twilight declared while turning to Pinkie and Bunga. “Call everypony back. We have a cake culprit to catch.”

“About time if you ask me.” Bunga commented while ready to pounce on whoever did it before requesting everyone back to the scene of the crime.

Once everyone was gathered, Twilight after talking it over with Kion and Kyoga, was ready to reveal the truth of what really happened last night.

“Why are we all here again?” Mulia Mild asked everyone while stuttering and fearing the worst when Twilight enters the room with her team of investigators by her side.

“I bet you're wondering why you're all here again.“ She asked everyone.

“She's good.” Donut Joe remarked very impressed with that spot on guess.

“We have discovered the true culprit of this cake carnage.” She then announced.

“But how?” Gustave asked the mare.

“Well, you see, when committing a crime, it's crucial that one never leaves behind clues, especially an obvious clue like... this.”

She presented two feathers one that is blue and one that is orange to which both Rainbow and Ono slinked down upon realizing they are busted while everyone else gasps wondering who it belongs too.

“A-ha! A blue feather!” Pinkie acted like she expected it before the honey badger turned to the griffon rather than the blue peagsus pony.

“I knew it was you, Gustave le Grand!” He confronted him before being pulled away from him by Kion.

“Bunga, Gustave doesn't have blue nor orange feathers.” He reminded him.

“No, 'cause he's been dyeing them!” Pinkie responded to agree with Bunga by pulling up the griffon’s feathers to which Twilight had to pull her away from him.

“No, Pinkie.” Twilight scolded her. “Remember how when you chased the suspect to the caboose, they suddenly disappeared? That's because they flew away. But the thief did leave a little something behind, didn't you, Rainbow Dash and Ono?

“I-I don't even like cake!”

“Neither do I!”

Both Rainbow and Ono sweated nervously upon being glared at by Twilight.

“So Rainbow Dash did it!”

“Case solved!“

Both Pinkie and Bunga stated.

“Case not solved.” Kion quickly responded otherwise to them before Twilight continues. “There’s still more to this case here.”

“Because when we went to the engine, I saw the conductor's hat. And inside the hat was... this.”

She presented a long pink strand of hair to which Fluttershy silently dropped her jaw upon seeing that she too is busted with Rainbow smirking at her for not doing a better job of not leaving behind a trail.

“So it was you!” Pinkie suddenly turned to Rainbow getting face to face with her. “That pink hair came from your rainbow-colored mane!”

“I don't have pink in my mane, Pinkie!” Rainbow quickly pointed out but Bunga wasn’t convinced.

“So you're wearing a wig?” He asked while pulling her mane before being knocked off by the peagsus and into the wall.

“Ow! Cut it out!” She sharply told him while brushing up the now messy strands of hair on her head.

“Pinkie, Bunga, remember?” Kion reminded them when Twilight explains of what really transpired.

“You chased a pony to the engine, where you thought you saw the conductor shoveling coal, but that wasn't the conductor at all. It was... Fluttershy!”

“Oh my.” Fluttershy gasped in fright with Pinkie and Bunga being quick to confront her.

“You're goin' down, Fluttershy!”

Once again, Kion was quick to intercept them before they could get hostile with her.

“Bunga! Pinkie!” Kion crossly said to them with stern eyes.

“But then another clue confounded my suspicions.” Twilight continued with her findings. “You were guarding the cake when the curtains mysteriously closed. But that's no mystery, that's magic. But when the thief tried to make their great escape, they left a little addition to the portrait.” She then presented a fake eyelash in her hoof. “Has anypony else noticed that Rarity is wearing her hair rather differently today?” She then asked the others while walking up to the now flustered white-coated unicorn.

“What? Is it a crime to change one's style now and again?” She gasped in light offense. “Why, I think it's a crime not to.”

“Really?”Twilight still smirked knowing that she too had a hoof in this while levitating her front mane to reveal her right eye was missing its matching eyelash.

“I'm guilty! I wear false eyelashes!” She dramatically cried out. “Oh, and I took a bite of the cake.” Then added casually pointing to the cake in question.

“So did I.”

“Aw nuts, so did I.”

“Me too!”

Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Ono also confessed.

“You just made it sound so delectable.” Rarity explained.

“So tasty.”

“And boy was it!”

“It sure was!”

Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Ono added.

“I only meant to take a little, lady-like bite.”

“And it was so good.”

“To the point we couldn’t help ourselves.”

“Yeah, I just dove right in!”

The four then explained before bowing their heads in shame to apologize.

“But I'm really really sorry.”

“Terribly sorry.”

“Sorry, Pinkie.”

“I’m sorry too!”

“That's okay.” Pinkie easily forgave them.

“At least this mystery is finally solved.” Bunga felt pleased they have cracked this case.

“But it isn't.” Twilight reminded gesturing to the devoured desserts on display. “We figured out who ate the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness, but we still don't know who devoured the other bakers' goods.”

“You're right, Twilight.”

“You know what we have to do?”

Both Pinkie and Bunga asked.

“Well... Yes, I do. Do you?” Twilight replied then asked if they know how to properly approach this.

“Look for clues!” Pinkie answered with Twilight levitating and swapping her and Kion’s hats with the head detective hats to let them take the lead on this case.

“Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.” They both said after examining the room with their magnifying glasses.

“Well, Pinkie, Bunga. Did you find the devourer of the desserts?” Twilight asked hoping that she has properly accounted for everything and examined all the evidence to the proper conclusion.

“We most certainly did.” Bunga nodded with Pinkie turning to the true culprits.

“It was none other than... the bakers!“ She stated to the three with everyone else gasping upon this statement.

“First of all, Gustave has mousse in his moustache!” Pinkie gestured to said chocolate on the left side of his moustache.

“And Joe has éclair in his hair!” Bunga added while gesturing to the little éclair residue on the top of his head.

“And Mulia has sprinkles in her wrinkles!” Pinkie concluded while shaking the sprinkles off of her cheeks.

“Well…” Kyoga sternly said to them with Twilight finishing

“What do you have to say for yourselves, bakers?” She asked in a scolding manner with the griffon chef starting off with his apologies to Mulia.

“Oh, I am so sorry, Mulia, but Pinkie made your mousse moose sound... très magnifique.”

“And Pinkie's description of your éclairs really did make 'em sound scrumptious.” Donut Joe added with his apology to the griffon chef.

“And the way she spoke of your Donutopia, ohh, was too delectable to resist.” Mulia confessed with her apology to Donut Joe just as they ride arrives in Canterlot.

“Well, everypony, we finally have the mystery solved.” Twilight then announced now that everything has properly unfolded.

“The case is now officially closed!” Kion declared to make it official.

“Yes, but now we don't have any desserts to enter into ze contest!” Gustave pointed out to his and the other chefs now greatly reduced and bite-size desserts.

“I think we can fix that.” Pinkie assured them they can arrange a way to resolve this.

While she leads everyone together so they can resolve this, Pinkie and Bunga took the time to compose a letter for the Princess to give to her when they meet up with her at the competition which goes word for word like this.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned that it is not good to jump to conclusions. You have to find out all the facts before saying somepony did something. If you don't, you could end up blaming somepony for something they never did. This could hurt their feelings, and it can make you look really foolish. So from now on, I will always make sure to get all the facts.”

During the preparations, Twilight and Kion, had a word with Applejack and Fuli.

“Hard to believe for somepony who was quick to try to touch the cake managed to resist all the way. I’m proud of you.” Twilight commended the farm pony. “You too, Fuli.”

“Aww, stop it.” Applejack then said suddenly guilt-ridden. “We honestly don’t deserve that.”

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“Is this more?” Kion correctly figured upon seeing Fuli having a guilty expression along with Applejack.

“Yes…” Fuli brought up hesitantly before confessing. “…Because we kinda helped ourselves to some of the cake too right after Pinkie and Bunga fell asleep on the job.”

“Oh did you.” Twilight asked them now surprised of this revelation. “And yet you both didn’t leave any clues behind.”

“Yeah, we’re sorry.”

“Me, too.”

They both apologized expecting the same scolding treatment too…

…but to their surprise they didn’t when both Kion and Twilight gave them friendly nudges along with a friendly laugh.

“Huh?” They both exclaimed in surprise.

“You’re not mad?” Fuli asked them.

“Mad? Are you kidding? That was really brilliant!” Twilight instead commended them. “Because you both did one thing they didn’t do. And that is by playing it smart.”

“Oh, wow. I guess we sort of did there.” Applejack admitted rather relived.

“It was rather patient of you for once.” Twilight added in the cheetah’s direction.

“That’s right! You two along with Kyoga.” Kion added with the lioness returning a rather flustered and embarrassed look upon being caught off-guard. “Yes, we know you also used magic at the same time Rarity did when she took a bite out of the cake.”

“Yeah, I can’t deny that.” Kyoga admitted while the five share another friendly laugh over it. “Don’t think we can keep this to ourselves?” She hopefully asked of both Kion and Twilight.

“Sure, we’ll let it slide.” Kion agreed.

“…This time that is.” Twilight added rather playfully and serious to which Kyoga nodded in response knowing that the unicorn means what she says.

For now bygones are left to be bygones and with Pinkie’s help they were able to combine all of the desserts together in one big cake consisting of doughnuts, eclairs, and the chocolate moouse head on top of the cake remains. The judges were so impressed they awarded everyone the blue ribbon and first prize upon first sight.

“How's that for a lesson, Princess Celestia?” Pinkie asked her just when she and Simba approach the winning cake but they seemed a little more interested in getting a bite out of the winning treat.

“Care for a bite?” Twilight offered each monarchs slices of the cake who both lick their lips at the sight of it.

“Don't mind if we do.” Bunga happily answered thinking she was talking to him and Pinkie before leaping up with each devouring half the cake in two seconds flat leaving them with enlarged stomachs from eating all of that food in one sitting.

“Oh, Bunga.” Kion just chuckled while rolling his eyes with everyone all laughing together at their silly antics.

“At least both the king and princess managed to get a slice out of this.” Twilight said to Kion while finding it very amusing herself too.

“And I managed to obtain a very valuable friendship lesson out of this…” Scar secretly commented with a devious smirk while observing the scene along with the memory of Pinkie and Bunga’s friendship lesson they learned today near the far edge of the Everfree Forest “…One that you will soon learn and begin seeing things my way, Twilight Sparkle.” He added with a sinister grin. “Because I have plans for you. Big plans indeed.”

Scar then evilly chuckled before making his way on foot towards a barren territory of dry land and grass around the area with a big and tall hive on the horizon. One that has multiple flyers with dark skin, skinny framed appearances, and razor sharp teeth.

Author's Note

In this episode, a mystery is brewing on the Friendship Express en route to Canterlot for the National Dessert Competition where the Cakes creation competes against a mule, a griffon, and Donut Joe's creations. A chocolate mousse, chocolate eclairs, and doughnut skyscrapers.

But along the way somebody has taken a bite out of them and it is up to Twilight and Pinkie along with Kion, Bunga, and Kyoga to investigate. After a quick examination of the train, they learn it was Rainbow Dash, Ono, Fluttershy, and Rarity who did while narrowly dodging Pinkie and Bunga on guard duty.

Also Applejack, Fuli, and Kyoga also took a bite out of the cake too, only they were all stealthy and patient enough not to leave any clues behind which is why they managed to avoid being caught. But since they were impressed with how well they pulled it off both Twilight and Kion agreed to keep quiet of their involvement since learning their lesson is punishment enough.

A nice lesson about getting facts together and uncovering the truth before jumping to conclusions pays off with the MMMystery on the Friendship Express resolved efficiently...

...Something that Scar agrees very well with having big plans for Twilight Sparkle heading into the Season 2 Finale. Big plans indeed where Scar prepares to enact his first attempt on taking over the Pride Lands and Equestria.

And one thing I can tell you about this is that what happens next will definitely change things going forward as Scar gets more and more involved in this story. But before we get into the Canterlot Wedding we have one more chapter focused on the main villain himself so...

...Be Prepared...

Episode 38: Be Prepared

Episode 38:

Be Prepared

Shortly after his most recent and secret observation of the Lion and Pony Guard, Scar made his way out of the Everfree Forest and towards the field where there is nothing but bare land and dry plants with nothing but a tall hive in the distance. Upon stepping forward into this territory of these mysterious flyers he finds that his magic been rendered ineffective seeing that he is unable to cast a simple spell with a flick and motion from one of his claws.

But Scar didn’t mind since being that he is managed to regain the build he once had when he was leader of the Lion Guard to the point he is now lean and muscular fit for a fast lion like himself. He has grown out of the cowardly phase he had between the day he lost the Roar to the day he was given a second opportunity in life with new magical powers he can use with no consequences for using them for evil.

He had managed to fend off and nearly beat Simba on his own and had managed to take over the kingdom and sway an army of hyenas by his side with nothing but his charming and manipulative nature. He had no reason and had no fear of being alone, unarmed, and unguarded so he pressed forward towards the tall hive without breaking his stride.

With his glowing neon green eyes locked on the hive where all of the dark-colored creatures are flying and buzzing around he takes the time walking over to think about to the day Twilight and Kion along with their friends became the new Lion and Pony Guard.

He was there watching them from the newly created and recently opened portal between the two worlds. Everyday he’s seen them in action and he’s seen them on top of their game. Always there to stop to a threat and solve a problem when it quickly arises and always there for each other when they need each other. Even during its darkest times.

Much like his Lion Guard team during his days as leader of the Lion Guard with the sole exception of never having the Pony Guard since it wasn’t until the day they defeated Nightmare Moon that he was shown that the very first in Lion Guard history. And he never would have been so sure if he hadn’t convinced the former villainous alicorn and now current night monarch of Equestria, Princess Luna, to set up all of those challenges the Guard has been put through together.

Shortly after the Guard’s formation, he makes his way towards the hive where he is greeted by a swarm of the vicious looking flyers that are known as changelings with some of them eyeing him as a threat.

“Halt! Who goes there!” One of the male changelings with purple eyes with matching wings and red scales demanded.

“A lion who’s words of wisdom are worth hearing.” Scar answered without even flinching at the growling and threatening face.

“You!” He scoffed. “Have you looked at yourself in the mirror? How could a lion that no one would and should trust in first sight have anything worth hearing?”

“Because this lion shares a common and mutual enemy that we both want to take down together.” Scar responded while using one of his claws to push him out of his personal space. “Princess Celestia.”

“Hmm…” He then considered with the other changelings sharing the same sentiment. “Very well lion. Then you’ll have to share your wisdom more with us. And you’ll have to take it with our queen.” He then added while locking eyes with Scar. “And better hope that your wisdom is useful, otherwise our queen will have no trouble having you over for dinner tonight.”

“Trust me when I tell you that your queen will want to listen and hear what I have to offer.” Scar returned unfazed by the threats of the lead changeling along with the changelings accompanying him speaking to him on her behalf. “And if she cares about becoming queen as much as I care about becoming king, she will take my advice.”

“Just be careful…” The changeling warned with a grunt in response to his bold stance.

The changelings all locked eyes weary of this sinister lion while they watch over him while making their way towards the hive. All but one changeling who had purple eyes much like the changeling addressing Scar but his were a lighter shade of purple of much and had a little less muscle. In contrast to the others, he looked more nervous and intimidated by Scar feeling he is not someone to be trifled with given the sheer bravery he is showing coming here all by himself without magic.

When Scar makes his way throne inside the hive, through the dark, deep, and mysterious twists and turns of the strange maze, he doesn’t flinch nor break his stride while making his way towards the part of the hive where their leader is. In a large room with sharp spikes on the ground along with an equally edgy and sharp throne fitting for a queen like her. Perfectly so, since the queen herself is a very tall changeling herself who outsizes all of her subordinates and strikes a very similar resemblance to the sun monarch aside from having darker colors than her.

“So…” The long blue-haired changeling began while turning her attention away from one of her cocooned meals from one of their hunts amongst the several hanging from the ceiling. “…what brings you all the way out here and so…alone?”

“I could ask you the same question...” Scar merely replied in the face of the grinning queen ready to pounce on her prey. “… or more accurately, how does a leader such as yourself manage to live all the way out here. I mean considering there’s little food and water here.”

“That is for me and me alone to know.” The queen sharply responded upon seeing that this lion is not simple prey ready to back down without a fight or showing fear in the face of danger. “Now how about you make it easier for yourself and explain to me why you’re here.”

“How droll.” Scar quipped with his voice dripping her agitation while toying with one of the sharp shards with his claws. “It must run across here too. Being so quick to want to get to the point.” He added while crushing it with two digits on his claw. “Very well your majesty, if you must know, I am here to offer you something of interest. A chance to retake something that was ours from the start. Something that you have always wanted in life. Something that you’ve long desired.” He said while approaching the queen who did the same vice versa.

“Get to the point!” She demanded with her long black horn glowing green that threatens to send magic his way if he doesn't tell her what she wants him to tell her.

“Point being, you want to be able to take over Equestria and overthrow Princess Celestia, and I want to be able to take over the Pride Lands.” He answered while pacing around her. “Each of us alone is no match against the power and magic of friendship combined. But together we stand a fighting chance against the very things in life that make everyone weak.”

“For a lion who’s only been here for so little time you sure know quite a great deal about the concept of that dreadful disease.” She sneered at him while he walks by her. “Just how do you know all about this?”

“Well, that’s tough for me to answer because that’s for me and me alone to know.” He merely replied with a rather uninterested expression of wanting to help her…at least what he wants her to think. “So I think I’ll see myself out.”

He turned to leave with the changelings guarding the exit advance on him ready to capture him only to crash into each other when the lion swiftly dodges their pile up.

“Stop him!” One of the changelings cried out while the timid one ducks out of sight to avoid facing off against Scar who just casually walks forward through the hive while evading and dodging changelings like he is just walking through the terrains of the Outlands as part of an obstacle course challenge.

He shows a keen eye towards changelings that try to catch him off guard. He shows bravery in the face of the entire changeling army even though he has no magical powers to back himself up with. He shows quick speed with his equally quick reflexes when knocking away every changeling that tries to charge at him. And is fierce and strong when tackling every changeling that tries to put up a fight and try to break free from his grasp.

All while this was going on the changeling queen could not believe what she is seeing. But unlike seeing this as a meal or victory escaping her grasp, she instead sees this as one truly worthy opponent or more accurately one very valuable ally who is worth listening to. And seeing him establish himself asserting his authority got her to think and reconsider her stance toward him.

Just when Scar made his way out of the hive she quickly flew after him and flew in front of him with the hopes he’ll stop and listen to her.

“Wait.” She said with one of her front hooves raised. “Can we talk?”

“Maybe.” Scar answered with a look of consideration. “Question is are you willing to listen to what I have to say and advise?”

“Yes.” She relented. “I’m listening.”

“Good.” Scar felt pleased with her cooperation. “And I get you might think this a hard decision. But it is the right one and now you just need to be prepared for what’s in store for you going forward. Be prepared for big changes. Be prepared for what I have in mind.”

“Be prepared?” She questioned rather intrigued by his emphasis on those two favorite words of his.

“Yes.” He said with a devious devilish smirk. “Be prepared indeed.”

And with a shake of hoofs and paws the two had an alliance formed then and there and the agreement to take down both Princess Celestia and King Simba no matter what it takes and what obstacles they have to face. Because they have the numbers to match the very power of friendship the Lion and Pony Guard has along with the teeth and ambition to pursue their goals. And that is precisely what they are going to do together.

Throughout the following months, Scar has been secretly keeping tabs on the Lion and Pony Guard by watching them in action unobserved. During the time Simba and Nala were on their weekend trip to the Elephant Lands, Scar started to take a particular interest in the leader of the Pony Guard, Twilight Sparkle upon learning that she too has an older brother she has a great relationship to.

To him, upon further examination this girl has a lot of similarities that reminds him to back when he was leader of his Lion Guard. In fact, he sees a lot of himself in her feeling that deep down under the fur they are the same or more specifically from the friendship lesson both Kion and Rainbow learned ‘Sisi Ni Sawa’. From there, he sees a lot of glimmering potential if allied to his vision and brain with an additional plan to have her join his side for his cause.

To this end, he snuck into the Canterlot Castle during the evening of the Grand Galloping Gala, since the monarchs from both worlds will be too busy greeting their guests along trying to enjoy the party to keep close guard on the vault of treasures and confidential secrets of everyone there.

He managed to obtain the research on all of the most powerful individuals from both worlds while secreting managing to obtain the elements through everyone’s noses. And even went as far as testing both Twilight and Kion from the shadows after seeing the Guard handle Discord which was another test to see how strong their friendship was with taking over Equestria from there would have just been an added bonus for him.

After seeing them all in action, it is confirmed to him that the power of friendship has prevailed through and through no matter what. But at the same time he has witnessed their flaws and vulnerabilities more specifically Twilight and Kion’s. The former has such a perfect relationship with her brother along with a clean streak of excellent grades yet a deeply-saddled fear of failure of that all falling apart. The latter is prone to having a low self-esteem and self-doubt to the point he shuts down without a resolve to fix it often requiring his teammates to help him out of it.

In order to get a better idea of what would the more perfect opportunity to attack and takeover the two worlds he did some research on the upcoming events in Canterlot. So he had to make a personal trip to the Canterlot Castle again to find something very useful to their advantage and he did upon secretly observing the alicorn sisters having a meeting with one of their royal advisors speaking to them of something of great importance.

“So the big Canterlot Wedding will take place here?” She asked of the two.

“Yes.” Celestia nodded. “I will be presiding over the wedding along with Simba. The Lion and Pony Guard will be to help oversee the preparations. There will be guards patrolling the surroundings of the castle at every post. If all goes well, Shining Armor the captain of the royal guard will be married to Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.”

“It’d better be considering that lots of pony’s from all over Equestria along with many Pride Landers will be gathering there at our request.” Luna added with a serious expression. “Therefore we need to be alert at all times and everything does go smoothly. Otherwise, the potential falling out from an unimaginable catastrophe could leave the bond that we started will certainly lead to chaos and mistrust.”

“Rest assured my sister, that we will take the necessary precautions required to ensure that no one will be able to endanger the lives of our citizens.” Celestia reassured.

“Hmm.” Scar said to himself getting an idea after quickly ducking to a nearby corner to avoid being spotted by the three ponies discussing more details on this upcoming wedding. “So Shining Armor, Twilight’s brother, is getting married with lots of Pride Landers and Equestrian ponies gathered in one place at their majesties’ request. That’s a first and something worth paying attention to.” He then said while casting an invisibility spell on himself so he can listen in more without being spotted.

He followed and listened to them talk more about the wedding until they got to their room and shared a very heartwarming moment with each other in light of the 1000 years of separation they have had as a result of Princess Luna becoming Nightmare Moon.

After leaving he made sure to swing by Ponyville for another round of food and supplies for the hungry changelings. Just like the previous times he did it proved to be no more since every time he appears while wearing his dark black cloak showing nothing more but his bright green eyes every scatters and cowers away in fear of him. Pretty much the main reason while they were quick to mistake Zecora as a dangerous threat.

“A whole market all to myself.” Scar remarked upon magically levitating as much food his magic and arms can carry. “This just keeps getting easier and easier every time. Much more so than the time every pony thought Zecora was the evil sorcerer lurking around.”

If only everyone knew who really was behind that cloak from the start because what everyone is now unaware of is the dire consequences that will follow since the real evil sorcerer of magic has set out with a plan to take over both Equestria and the Pride Lands for the taking.

He makes it back to the changeling’s territory where he brings forward Chrysalis and her followers the food he obtained from the market to which many of the changelings eagerly chomped down on the food he provided them while their queen feasted on the information he obtained during his most recent travels.

“A royal wedding?” Chrysalis questioned with a very intrigued expression while reading the confidential files Scar presented her. “Oh how this day keeps getting better and better.”

“You and me both.” Scar couldn’t agree more. “And with this upcoming wedding on the horizon. It sure to be a memorable day that no one will ever forget.”

“It’d sure won’t.” Chrysalis agreed with the many changelings gathering before them ready to discuss this matter some more. “And if any or all of you have been paying attention, you all better listen to us good because what Scar has presented me is presenting us a once in lifetime opportunity. An opportunity for us to take over Equestria along with the Pride Lands to feast on all of the wonderful love any of us could ever hope and dream about.”

Many of the changelings had their mouths watering with some of the dim-witted ones even drooling at the sight while the two changelings that had opposing thoughts in dealing with Scar and they were also brothers too. The older brother of the two was the one that was watching the lion’s every move was ready and on board with his and Chrysalis’s plan. The younger brother was the one who correctly felt they shouldn’t even try to fight Scar and had timid and unsure feelings whether to do the same or not.

“Queen Chrysalis is right.” Scar said. “In order for us to succeed we have to be prepared to strike at the right moment. Just when everyone is all gathered and vulnerable at our mercy.”

“And how do you propose we do that?” The older brother of the two inquired. “Take down and kill one of their strongest and most powerful leaders such as Celestia, Luna, Nala, or Simba?”

“Precisely.” He answered while grinning and balancing his chin on his right paw. “With two more leaders in the mix.”

“Huh?” The changelings all look up questioningly with what Scar has in mind for all of them before pacing around the rocky terrain looking down on all of his new followers.

“I never thought hyenas essential.” Scar began while reminiscing the moment he ended up throwing the hyenas under the bus to save his own skin. “They’re crude and unspeaking plain.” He then focuses back to the changelings. “But unlike them. You all however a glimmer of potential, if allied to my vision and brain.”

Scar then leaps down the ledge he was standing on towards the changeling army. They all scattered and stepped away from him when he lands on the ground. He walks straight forward with cracks from the ground emitting green steam from below

“I know that your powers of retention…”

Scar began singing before circling one of the changelings chewing on a now bare ham bone.

“…are as wet as a warthog's backside. But thick as you are…”

Scar then swats the bone away and out of the changeling’s mouth.

“…pay attention!”

He ordered of the changeling who immediately salutes after giving an apologetic nod before the lion circles around him.

“My words are a matter of pride.”

He sang before waving a paw in front of the changeling’s face.

“It's clear from your vacant expressions, the lights are not all on upstairs.”

He sang with the changeling’s tongue lolling out before crouching.

“But we're talking kings and successions.”

He sang before turning his attention to two changelings snickering from behind and above.

“Even you can't be caught unawares!”

He sang in their faces who both fell back and landed on the geyser’s behind them which exploded and sent them flying upwards.

“So prepare for the chance of a lifetime.

Be prepared for sensational news.”

Scar sang while leaping over to another ledge and stroking his mane when it gets in his face before sauntering along the ledge and corner he is now standing on.

“A shining new era is tiptoeing nearer.”

He sang while tiptoeing right along by Queen Chrysalis.

“And where do we feature?”

She asked before being grabbed by the cheek.

“Just listen to teacher.”

Scar replied to the bewildered changeling queen who rubbed her cheek with a frown for his approach towards royalty.

“I know it sounds sordid, but you'll be rewarded when at last I am given my dues.”

He further sang before leaping up to a higher ledge where another changeling is finishing up the remains of a turkey bone.

“And injustice deliciously squared.”

He sang while kicking the changeling off of the ledge and into a pile of bones below him.

“Be prepared!”

“Yeah! Be prepared! Yeah-heh! We'll be prepared! Heh!” The changeling grinned eager in response before peering up towards Scar questioningly. “For what?”

“For the death of the king.” He answered with his tall shadow looming from behind.

“Why? Is he sick?” He asked while climbing up to his ledge with the lion responding by grabbing him on the throat and jerking him close. “No, fool. We're gonna kill him. And Celestia, too.” He added while dropping the changeling who landed on the ground below him with the two changeling brothers Phyrnax and Thorax helping him up.

“Great idea! Who needs a king?” Phyrnax immediately liked what he was suggesting.

“Or a queen.” The other changeling remarked while Thorax looks aside not liking what he was hearing.

“No king! No queen! La, la, la, la, la, la!” They sang while circling around Thorax.

“Idiots! There will be a king!”

“And a queen!”

The two shouted.

“Hey, but you said-“The changeling standing beside Phyrnax responded while lifting a hoof up questioningly.

“I will be king! And Chrysalis will still be your queen.” Scar stated. “Stick with me…” He told them when yellow pillars of light shine on the wall behind him and Chrysalis. “…and you'll never go hungry again!”

“Yay! All right! All right!” Both Phyrnax and the other changeling both cheered. “Long live the king and queen!”

“Long live the king! Long live the king!”

The rest of the changelings sans Thorax all standing from every ledge all around the hive all cheered before they all filed together in ranks and goose-step past Scar and Chrysalis who both observe from the ledge above.

“It's great that we'll soon be connected with a king who'll be all-time adored.“

They sang together while greatly warming up the charismatic and cunning lion’s leadership.

“Of course, quid pro quo, you're expected to take certain duties aboard.”

Scar sang while lifting a finger before motioning it across his throat to emphasize there will be some killing involved to which Thorax nervously gulped while pressing forward with the march.

“The future is littered with prizes, and though I'm the main addressee, the point that I must emphasize is…”

He sang before leaping down from the ledge towards the changelings in front of him with the lightning changing to red around them, while advancing on a lone changeling, who backs away from him in terror.

“YOU WON'T GET A SNIFF WITHOUT ME!”

He shouted at him just when a fissure opens beneath the changeling who yelped upon being swallowed up by the opening of it which terrified Thorax greatly and confirmed that Scar is definitely a sociopathic monster like Chrysalis.

“So prepare for the coup of the century.”

Scar continued singing the geysers begin to erupt red hot lava, causing pillars of rock to rise into the air with Scar himself jumping onto one of the rising pillars on the ground.

“Be prepared for the murkiest scam.“

Scar sang while hoping on another rising rock pillar while a trio of changelings sing to the beat wagging their rumps in unison while Scar sings his praises from the rising pillar he is standing on.

“La, la, la!”

We’ll have food!

Lots of food!

We repeat!

Endless meat!”

“Meticulous planning...

Tenacity spanning...

Decades of denial...

Is simply why I'll...

Be king undisputed, respected, saluted, and seen for the wonder I am!”

He sang with two changelings shaking animal skeletons around with their teeth.

“Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared.

Be prepared!”

The changelings all dance from rock pillar to rock pillar with one changeling playing an animal spine like it's a xylophone.

“Yes, our teeth and ambitions are bared!“

Scar, Chrysalis, Phyrnax, and all of the changelings minus Thorax all sang together before finishing together with the now nighttime sky with the crescent moon shining behind them.

“Be Prepared!”

Everyone all laughs together menacingly with Chrysalis flying up at Scar’s eye level who is standing on the top of the rock formation created from the pillars when the red light of the geysers die out.

Back to the present day, Scar makes his way towards the changeling hive where all of his followers are all ready and eager to greet him…

Along with more of his followers from the Outlands in the other realm. While everyone was focused on the national dessert competition he conjured a portal for the Outsiders to make a quick teleportation from the Outlands to outside of the changeling kingdom.

Needless to say, they were all surprised to see themselves whisked inside the portal and found themselves nearby terrain which looked very similar to their home and much more so upon seeing that Scar who they thought was dead is alive.

“Ah, Zira. There you are.” Scar greeted the red-eyed lioness who bowed before him along with the other Outsiders. “Glad you all could make it.”

“If this means an opportunity for revenge along with taking back what’s yours, I’m in.” Zira returned with a vicious grin. “Especially after that pesky lioness took my magic away.”

“Not to worry my dear.” He assured. “You’ll get it soon enough because I have a plan.”

“Aw, yeah! Let’s hear it!” Nuka crazily jumped ready to hear it with Zira snarling at him to control himself to which he quickly does with a nervous chuckle.

“What’s the plan?” Vitani asked with open ears.

“As you now may have heard…” Scar began. “The Pony Guard leader’s brother is getting married to Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Which means when the time of the wedding comes we make our move.“

“I like the sound of that.” Nuka smirked maliciously.

“And what about the leader of the Pony Guard?” Vitani questioned. “Didn’t you say you had plans for the girl.”

“I do, Vitani.” Scar nodded. “Big plans for her. Big plans indeed.” He chuckled more focusing his attention to all of his followers ready to listen in on the lion’s master plan of his takeover attempt at the Canterlot Wedding with his sinister green eyes glowing before starting. “Now…here’s the plan I want you all to follow and what I want you all to do…”

Author's Note

In this episode with Scar himself getting the Day in the Limelight, we see what our mysterious foe has been doing through the first two seasons of this series.

True to character, all of that spying and monitoring of the Guard is gathering valuable information planning and plotting a perfect coup to overthrow the alicorn princess along with the lion king and who better to do it than with Queen Chrysalis herself along with her changelings. And it is about to used to their advantage with the upcoming wedding that will take place in the next and final two episodes of Season 2.

Everyone one of them including Queen Chrysalis are doing what Scar will want do and that is to Be Prepared...

...along with Zira and the Outsiders who are all now on board with Scar's plan in his attempt to take over Equestria and the Pride Lands so stay tuned because we will see them all in action as Season 2 prepares to draw to a close.

Episode 40: Canterlot Wedding Part Two

Episode 40:

Canterlot Wedding Part Two

After telling Luna of her and Twilight’s discovery, she would gather her friends Karabi, Lite, and Kovu so they can do some investigating in the castle’s lower levels in search for the strange faint voice she has been constantly hearing ever since she got here.

“Are you sure this is the right direction.” Kovu somewhat timidly asked.

“Yes, I am sure.” She replied as she looked around the basement for any hidden openings. “I am sure as I am honest.”

“Oh boy.” He returned as he emitted a little gulp just sensing the danger they are facing ahead.

“Find anything.” Kyoga asked her friends.

“Nothing yet.” Lite responded as he looked around the walls as Karabi was doing the same until she noticed a dark opening from the nearby corridor.

“This way…” The changeling Thorax appeared and gestured them to the opening to which left everyone surprised by his sudden appearance.

“Give me one good reason I shouldn’t rip you apart.” Kyoga threatened with soft-spoken fury as Thorax nervously gulped as he finds himself backed up into a corner by the lioness along with her two friends.

“Please…it’s not like that.” Thorax innocently pleaded. “…I’m not like the pony behind the mask.”

“How so?” Karabi demanded as Lite bared his claws ready to pounce on him.

“Because said pony is the changeling queen in disguise.” He demonstrated as he briefly transported into Kyoga. “As you can see this is what changelings can do when they take the form of another pony or lion or whatever they come across.” He added in her voice before changing back.

“And we should trust you why…” Lite responded not convinced.

“…Because all I ever wanted was love. I never even signed up for this hostile takeover.” Throax answered as he moved towards the hidden cave opening entrance as he rips apart the weaken wall to reveal the dark cave entrance to the underground catacombs with a downhill path leading down towards the bottom. “Down there is the real Princess Cadance where Queen Chrysalis captured and imprisoned her in down this secret entrance to the caves you were talking about.”

Kyoga then seriously looked at Thorax in the eyes before stating. “He’s telling the truth.” Much to the timid changeling’s relief. “Let’s go!” She led them down the hill with Kovu initially looking down still hesitant on going down there but his noble valor took over as he pressed forward after them while Thorax sticks around near the entrance.

“Are you coming?” Kovu asked.

“Just go on ahead.” He urged him to follow them. “I’ll right here waiting for you all in case anything goes wrong. And if so just yell Thorax!”

“Okay.” The dark-furred lion nodded before catching up with the others.

They all manage to reach the bottom of the pathway leading down to the catacombs is they all look around as they hear the voice Kyoga has been talking about from earlier.

“Help! Help!” Cadance’s faint voiced called out to them.

“She’s close!” Kyoga stated as her ears got a good hearing out of it. “I can hear her.”

Karabi and Lite hearing it too as they come across a crystal barrier in front of them worked their magic and busting an opening in the wall which cracked it and revealed another opening and clearing inside the caves. As the two repeated the process they hear that the cries for help were getting louder as they were all getting closer to imprisoned pony calling for help.

At the same time in another part of the caverns, Twilight is currently lighting her horn as she looks around to her surroundings to see where the Cadance she saw teleported her.

“Hello? Is anyone there?” She called out as her voice echoed before walking around and then bumped into one of the crystal walls and heard distant evil laughing. “Where am I?”

Just then, her reflection turned into Cadance’s appeared in place to speak to her in person.

“The caves beneath Canterlot, once home to greedy unicorns who wanted to claim the gems that could be found inside. And now, your prison.” She tauntingly told her.

“Help! Help!” Twilight cried as she further taunted her of the hopelessness of the situation.

“It's no use. No one can hear you. And no one will ever think to look for you, either. Most ponies have forgotten that these caves even exist, which is why they are the ideal place to keep the ones who try to interfere with my plans.” Cadance then evilly laughed at her as her ears lowered at the sight of all of this.

“Plans? What plans?” Twilight questioned of where she is going with this.

“The plans I have for your brother, of course.” Cadance replied with a mock surprised expression.

“Don't you dare do anything to my brother, you... you monster!” Twilight then threateningly responded with her horn flaring up with pink-red magic.

“Only way to stop me is to catch me!” She further mocked the unicorn to purposely provoke her as her reflection randomly appeared all over her surroundings while evilly laughing to goad her into firing her best shot at her to which she fires one which ricocheted off of the surroundings forcing Twilight to duck to avoid the blast. “Over here! Nope, over here!“ She repeated to further increase the unicorn’s anger as she still fired shots at the crystals that were heard from the other rescue party just as Karabi and Lite were working their magic through the barriers.

“Was that Twilight?” Kovu asked upon hearing her voice.

“She’s here too…” Kyoga deduced as this is surprise to her ears as Karabi and Lite still work their strength and magic and breaking through the crystal barriers until they reach the Cadance trapped behind the barriers who had her fur coat scratched up and dirty along with her mane being messy.

At that moment, Twilight had also broke through the barriers at the same time to which Cadance turned and reacted with alarm upon seeing Twilight’s angry eyes as she prepares to charge at her.

“No! Wait!” She stammered with held up hooves trying to back up only to be immediately tackled by her. “Ugh! Please! Don't hurt me!” She pleaded as she looked away to brace herself for whatever Twilight was going to do her before facing her. “Twilight, it's me! Please, you have to believe me. I've been imprisoned like you. The Cadance who brought you down here was an imposter.” She pleaded for mercy.

“Likely story!” Twilight refused to believe it with narrowed eyes until Kyoga got face to face with her.

“Twilight, please…” Kyoga said to her as she got her to get off of Cadance. “…She is telling the truth.”

As Twilight still looks on skeptically, Cadance steps forward and performs something that only the one and true Cadance can do to prove it to her.

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves...” She performed the movements of their signature greeting to which Twilight recognized as she clapped her hoof with her.

“...and do a little shake.” Twilight finished as Cadance returned an honest grin to which Twilight eagerly smiling upon seeing she is the real deal.

“You remember me!” Twilight happily wrapped her hooves around the alicorn.

“Of course I do.” She assured her. “How could I forget the filly I love to sit for the most?”

“Well considering whoever was impersonating you led her to believe that .” Lite figured.

“Makes perfect sense.” Karabi agreed as Twilight spoke to them along with Kyoga and Kovu.

“So what brought all of you down here?” She asked.

“While we were checking up on the wedding preparations I heard a strange voice that sounding like someone was crying for help.” Kyoga explained. “So I figured out that the Cadance we saw from earlier was really an imposter who had managed to lock the real Cadance down here.”

“So we did some looking around in the basement to where we found an entrance to the underground caves beneath this castle.” Karabi added.

“And it was there we heard the sound of her voice getting louder and that’s when it became clear to us.” Lite joined in.

“That whoever is impersonating Cadance is planning to take over Equestria.” Kovu then finished.

“Wow!” Twilight voiced amazement that this new development.

“I know.” Kyoga responded agreeing that it is an amazing discovery. “I wouldn’t have known had I not learned to trust my instincts.”

“I’m glad you didn’t.” Twilight voiced very pleased that help came for them. “Because I almost just did.” She then added in a more downcast tone.

“Twilight, what’s the matter?” Kovu asked taking note of her sudden change in mood.

“After I stormed out on the girls, I went to try to warn my brother of my suspicions of the imposter.” She began as she recalled the painful memories of what had just happened. “But she was already there and had already cast a spell on him that made his eyes glow green just like her aura of magic.” Kyoga nodded hearing this. “So then I tried to warn my friends only to walk in on them gushing over the fact that her original bridesmaids have been removed from the wedding and that they were chosen to become the new bridesmaids in their place.”

“Huh?” Both Karabi and Lite expressed befuddled looks hearing this.

“Ugh.” Kyoga groaned. “So I take it you were then on your own from there.”

“Yes.” She sadly replied.

“And what happened…” Cadance asked sensing something really bad happened through her efforts to stop the imposter.

“Well…” Twilight struggled to press forward as she recalls every bit of what happened at the wedding rehearsal with her ears drooped down. “…I attempted to expose her at the wedding rehearsal with what I learned about her…only to get harshly reprimanded by my brother who dismissed all of her bad behavior as pre-wedding stress before kicking me out of the wedding altogether.” She recalled as the sudden pain of the memory flows through her mind.

“What?” Cadance reacted with disheartened shock hearing this. “And he just left you alone like that?”

“Yeah. Along with the girls and even Princess Celestia walked out on me like I deserved it.” She sadly added to which no one could not even believe what their ears were hearing.

“They did WHAT?!” Karabi and Lite exclaimed in unison.

“That was just harsh!” Kyoga expressed her sudden disgust.

“I know.” Twilight acknowledged as a few tears fall from her eyes. “And the worst part about it was I too felt like I was in the wrong until the imposter sent me underground to here.”

“Twilight, I’m so sorry.” Cadance brought her in for another embrace as tears further streamed the hurt unicorn’s face as Kovu joined in on the hug.

“Well, that was just unacceptable!” Karabi voiced her sudden anger at the Pony Guard along with Shining Armor, and the sun monarch.

“They suck!” Lite agreed just as angry at them as Kyoga while feeling sorry for Twilight looks on upwards with calm fury as she takes all of this into account just as they hear the imposter’s voice evilly laughing from above.

“We’ll deal with them later.” Kyoga calmly responded with narrowed eyes while focusing on what’s more important right now.

“We have to get out of here. We have to stop her!” Twilight agreed as she immediately stopped crying with her heart filled with determination to stop her more so than ever as they all navigated back the way they came from so they can get out of here and stop the imposter while Scar secretly watches from above and on top of the very high ledges unnoticed as Zira and her pride approach from behind the smirking lion.

“All right my dear…” Scar then said turning to face her. “When we get to the room where the wedding is being held, get in position, you all know what to do when the reception begins.”

“Yes, Scar.” She sinisterly replied as she turned to face her children who express their deadly excitement to crash the wedding. “Yes we do!”

“Time for payback.” Vitani added.

“Let’s go!” Nuka declared as he went ahead charged yet ended up clumsily tripping over and tumbling down the hill after realizing he walked into mid-air.

The other three just shake their heads disapprovingly upon seeing this as Scar uses his magic to help him on his paws after leaping down from the ledge.

“Just stick with them.” He gently advised as Zira and Vitani join him. “You wouldn’t want to end up crushed to death by any of these crystals.”

“Okay Scar…” He reluctantly yet shamefully complied as he slinked back behind Zira and Vitani as they make their way towards the cave entrance just as Scar goes ahead knowing that Twilight and Cadance are going to be following Kyoga, Kovu, Karabi, and Lite back the way they came in here.

“Besides…I don’t want any of you rushing ahead and risking being spotted by Twilight, Kyoga, and their friends…” Scar then added another reason for his orders. “…since it was by luck Chrysalis managed to pull off those crocodile tears and get everyone expect the Lion Guard and Simba to turn against her since they were more pre-occupied with their wedding plans to see she is correct.” He then frowned at the bitterness he felt when a similar situation happened to him when he was young and before he got his namesake scar. “Besides, I still need Twilight alive.” He added with a grin before teleporting off so he can cut off their escape.

Meanwhile in her room, was Chrysalis still in her Cadance disguise as she puts on the wedding dress Rarity made for her before placing a red rose from a set of flowers nearby the her mirror as she starts singing victoriously with how everything is coming together thanks to her and Scar’s plan working wonders in these last few days.

“This day is going to be perfect

The kind of day of which I've dreamed since I was small

Everypony will gather 'round

Say I look lovely in my gown

What they don't know is that I have fooled them all!”

She sang while smirking to herself before using her green magic to move the mannequins around as her true inner green eyes also showed.

Back in the caves, Cadance sang as she briefly sat down in despair worrying they won’t make it back in time as Twilight places a comforting hoof on her shoulder.

“This day was going to be perfect

The kind of day of which I've dreamed since I was small

But instead of having cake

With all my friends to celebrate

My wedding bells, they may not ring for me at all…”

As Twilight comforts Cadance the imposter continues for the reception as she kicks aside a basket of apples Applejack gave her along with disintegrating the hat Rarity made for one of the guests at the wedding that she took the time to embrace like another pony she is to her.

“I could care less about the dress

I won't partake in any cake

Vows, well I'll be lying when I say

That through any kind of weather

I'll want us to be together

The truth is I don't care for him at all

No I do not love the groom

In my heart there is no room

But I still want him to be all mine.”

Back at the caverns, everyone there are all racing around to find another way out after Scar destroyed the pathway to the way Kyoga and crew made their way in with his magic while disguising his actions to make it look like a random incident. Nevertheless even when faced with having to a ride a mine cart on the way over if that’s what it takes to save everyone they were willing to do so.

As Cadance struggled to move the mine cart, Twilight quickly came to her aid as she worked her magic in removing rocks and levitating her foalsitter into the cart as Karabi and Lite both fly and give Kyoga and Kovu a lift into the second cart behind the girl’s as they fly after both rides as they head downhill on the tracks at a fast speed.

“We must escape before it's too late

Find a way to save the day

Hope, I'll be lying if I say

I don't fear that I may lose him

To one who wants to use him

Not care for, love, and cherish him each day"

For I oh so love the groom

All my thoughts he does consume

Oh, Shining Armor, I'll be there very soon.”

Upon seeing their ride came to a dead end leaving everyone to descend to the sharp rocks and spikes down below but all of the flyers were able to fly over them while carrying the others in tow. With Cadance carrying Twilight, Karabi carrying Kyoga, and Lite carrying Kovu.

As everyone gets on with the wedding with many Equestrian civilians and Pride Landers gathering together for the momentous occasion all wearing formal attire for the wedding as everyone is completely unaware of the true evil lurking around from within as the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the young Lion Guard fan group all spread flowers all over the carpet as the faux princess makes her way up to the hypnotized groom with Celestia and Simba awaiting them as Simba along with the Lion Guard wonder where Twilight is while feeling she must have still felt unwelcome to attend the wedding.

“Finally the moment has arrived

For me to be one lucky bride.”

Chrysalis sang as she made her way to the altar.

“Oh, the wedding we won't make

He'll end up marrying a fake

Shining Armor will be...”

Cadance sang as she cried as she found another dead end.

“...mine, all mine.” Chrysalis finished with a cackle as Celestia commences the beginning of the celebration.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Shining Armor.”

Back in the caverns everyone is looking around for another way out since they are all unaware of Scar’s involvement in cutting off their escape.

“Oh, we're never going to save him.” Cadance said in despair.

“We will.” Kyoga assured her as she and Twilight look around for an opening.

“We just have to find...There!” Twilight then spotted it just above them to which she and Kyoga quickly teleported them to the area.

But as luck would have it they come across the original bridesmaids in their dresses with hypnotized green eyes much like Shining Armor’s.

“Well that explains it.” Kyoga remarked as the pieces of the puzzle in that regard come together.

“You're not going anywhere.” They said to them as Thorax suddenly appeared before them.

“Yes they are.” He bravely stated as he hissed at them as they gang up on him and attack him mercilessly but he still was able to fend off for himself and able to force them off of his body as Kyoga steps in and works her magic in undoing whatever brainwashing spell Chrysalis put over the girls.

“How…” Twilight wondered as Kyoga quickly and briefly answered.

“Long story short, he is a former ally of the mastermind of this plot who knows something about her no one else does.”

Once the magic worked wonders on them they all groaned as they came to their senses.

“Ugh!” The aqua-green coated mare with cyan-colored mane groaned.

“What did I do last night?” The blue-coated mare and blue mane with white streaks in it asked.

“And how did we get here the white-coated mare with a pink mane also asked.

“You were all under a brainwashing spell.” Kyoga informed them. “The Cadance you saw yesterday was really an imposter.”

“Really? Then who’s that?” The cyan maned unicorn asked gesturing to the real Cadance.

“This is the real Princess Cadance.” Twilight gestured her to them. “Yes, I know this is quite a shock.”

“I’ll say…” The blue mare commented in agreement as she groaned from the headache she got from the spell. “Wow! My head hurts!”

“Mine too!”

“Mine three!”

The other girls added as they dropped to their knees.

“Don’t worry girls.” Twilight assured them as she worked her magic in levitating them off of the ground. “We’ll get you all out of here.”

Everyone then made their way out of the caves and back inside the castle in the hallways as they took the time to guide them back to their rooms before focusing their attention back on the wedding just as the two royals began to officially wed the bride and groom.

“Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, it is my great pleasure to pronounce you–“ Simba then was about to declare until they heard someone bursting through the doors.

“Stop!” Twilight called out to interrupt as everyone mummers is surprise wondering what this is all about while her pony friends just look on in her direction very bitter and exasperated at her sudden outburst and interrupting the wedding again even after her brother made it perfectly clear she is unwelcome here with even Spike, Kion, along with the rest of the Lion Guard feeling embarrassed by her behavior at this point.

“Oh.” Imposter Cadance remarked slightly amused. “Some pony’s got a sudden burst of courage even after being banned from the wedding didn’t we?”

“Talk to the hoof, faker.” Twilight voiced with a raised hoof having none of it this time. “The jig is up and you know why? Because you’re evil.” She stated as she pointed a hoof directly at her.

“Twilight! How can you say such a thing?!” Fuli scolded.

“Yeah, she’s not evil!” Bunga added, until...

“Yes she is!” Kyoga stated as she, Kovu, Karabi, Lite and Thorax came in together with Kyoga leading to back Twilight up.

“Kyoga, what are you doing here and whose the bug?” Kion questioned.

“His name is Thorax and he told us something interesting. Apparently this threat to Canterlot is already inside the barrier and the so called, ‘Princess Cadence!’” Kyoga replied, making the others roll their eyes.

“Kyoga, enough with these stupid accusations! You got no proof!” Applejack yelled having enough of this.

“Yes she does!” The real Princess Cadence said as she appeared much to everyone’s shock.

“What? How’d you escape from the caverns?” Imposter Cadance asked.

“I helped them! Cause I don’t want to go through with your plans anymore!” Thorax exclaimed, bravely.

“I-I don’t understand, how can there be two of them?” Rainbow asked.

“She’s a Changeling! She takes the form of somepony you love and gains power by feeding off your love for them!” The real Princess Cadence explained before imposter Cadence snarled and she was engulfed in a bright green light, much to the horror of everyone in the room. When the light went away it revealed the Changeling Queen, Queen Chrysalis.

“Hahaha! Right you are, princess… …” Chrysalis smirked. “And as queen of the changelings, it is up to me to find food for my subjects. Equestria has more love than any place I've ever encountered. My fellow changelings will be able to devour so much of it that we will gain more power than we have ever dreamed of!” She further continued as she walked down the steps to speak directly and face to face with the Princess of Love while bypassing the terrified wedding guests.

“They’ll never get the chance, Shining Armor’s protection spell will keep them from ever even reaching us!” Cadence exclaimed in defiance to the changeling queen to which she scoffed as she laughed at her words.

“Doubt that, I won’t be so such… right husband..?” Chrysalis replied as she turned and activated her magic, turning Shining Armor’s eyes green and he nodded.

Everyone further gasped, “Twilight was right, you did put a spell on Shining Armor!” Besthe said in her direction as Cadance tried to move towards her future husband only for Chrysalis to quickly block her off with her horn flaring ready to send her back to the caves if she didn’t back off to which she does while still maintaining her glare at her.

“Yes I did and ever since I took Princess Cadence’s place I’ve been feasting on Shining Armor’s love for you.” The changeling queen didn’t even deny it before leaping back over to the entranced unicorn. “Every minute he grows weaker and so does his spell even more my minions are chipping away at it.” Chrysalis smirked as Twilight joined by Cadance’s side. “He may not be my husband, but he is under my total control now.” She added as she placed a hoof on Shining’s chin to which both ponies gasped in horror. “And, I'm sorry to say, unable to perform his duties as captain of the Royal Guard.”

“Not my Shining Armor!” Cadance cried.

“And the best part about it is I really wouldn’t have gotten this far without some inside help from a fellow friend of mine and he sure is quite charming for his looks along with being right about you, not being so easy to fool, Twilight and Kyoga.” Chrysalis added as both Kion and Simba were both wondering what she is talking about.

“What are you talking about?!” Simba demanded.

“You’re wrong if you think someone would help the likes of you, Chrysalis!” Kion also asserted.

“Oh is that so…?” An eerie voice spoke out from the room as another flash of green light with flames shot up towards the ceiling similarly to Chrysalis’s reveal to which caused the Lion and Pony Guard to flinch upon seeing the figure with the black cloak appear before everyone on top of the ledge above the window before removing his cloak as Scar revealed himself to everyone while leaping down onto the altar alongside the changeling queen. “Well, I’m afraid you’re wrong about that Kion.”

Scar evilly laughed as everyone’s shock and horror amped up to the max upon seeing the villainous lion in the flesh and fur as Timon and Pumbaa quickly hightailed it to a nearby pillar for cover along with the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Mtoto and his friends and a terrified Laini who whimpered while hiding behind the horns of the antelope leader.

“Surprise!” He said before everyone around as they all are witnessing the return of one of the most nefarious villains that has ever crossed paths with complete horror and shock that Scar himself is somehow back from the dead and alive.

“Is that…?” Ma Tembo questioned in shock and horror to Basi standing next to her.

“How could it be…?” He asked just as shocked and horrified.

“What?!” Kion and Simba exclaimed with the former still stunned as they both lock eyes on him.

“Scar!” The lion king and lion prince then stated with furious glares upon seeing him while Kyoga after recovering from her shock then instantly snarled upon seeing the lion himself responsible for her pain and suffering and the voice in her head at the Hearth's Warming play the other day.

“That’s right, Simba and Kion…” Scar confirmed. “And you all never thought you’d see me again did you?” He asked every cowering and terrified wedding guest before continuing. “And of course, that meets the Changeling is correct and explains of how she was able to pull this all off for I planned this whole plot, just to bring you all to your knees.” He evilly gloated as Twilight spoke up to him.

“So it was you that was spying on us.” She analyzed with realizing eyes while approaching him towards the bottom of the stairs with his past mysterious actions she was so sure she wasn't making up and was proven true once more with his sudden appearance with everything coming together. “Because I saw and heard about you before, the mysterious figure wearing that cloak over your head, along with the mysterious voice in my head from time to time, and the Future Twilight I saw not too long ago. It was you all along, Scar.”

“Yes, Twilight Sparkle.” Scar responded with a smirk impressed with her intelligence. “You’ve guessed correctly. Bravo!” He chuckled at the glaring unicorn as he approached her while walking down the steps so he can meet face to face with the lavender mare. “And the funny part about all of this was the fact you were suspicious of Chrysalis’s behavior and the fact that you were right all along.” He added while placing a paw on her chin with his claws feeling Twilight’s skin as he addressed everyone else specifically the alicorn princess, the rest of the Pony Guard as well as the Lion Guard. “Too bad the rest of you were so caught up in your wedding plans to realize the unicorn’s suspicions were correct! Some friends you are. Guess friendship really is a sham.” Scar laughed.

Kion growled at his great uncle while leaping in front of the villainous lion and in her friend’s defense to force Scar to remove his paw off of his best friend.

“Soon, my plan will take full force! First we take Canterlot and then all of Equestria and the Pridelands!” Scar then exclaimed with an evil laugh as Chrysalis floated into the air triumphantly.

“No. You won't.” Celestia seriously said to the two villains as the queen floated back to the ground to face her eye to eye. “You two may have made it impossible for Shining Armor to perform his spell, but now that you two have so foolishly revealed your true self, we can protect our subjects from you!”

“We’ll see about that and who’s really foolish, your majesties.” Scar calmly responded undeterred as he locked eyes with the lion king as he prepares for a rematch against him while Celestia locks horns with Chrysalis. “Because in regards to that matter, it is quite the opposite because things are just getting started.”

Celestia then shined golden magic from her horn as she shot it at Chrysalis at the same time Scar lunged at Simba as both leaders engaged in the fight for their lives as he quickly tackled him and locked his teeth into Simba’s mane before slamming him into the ground while trying to further sink his teeth into the king before he quickly forced him off of him.

Celestia had the magical advantage over Chrysalis as she was forced back and struggled with her back against the walls by their beam of war as she finds herself completely overwhelmed by the alicorn princess as she tries to resist being knocked out with little success.

At the same time Scar and Simba were trading blows as they swipe paws at each other’s faces as Simba tried to tackle the evil lion to the ground yet was pushed off rather easily by him as it is clear Scar had gotten stronger ever since his resurrection. And that was without magic, before he quickly followed up forcing Simba off of him before quickly knocking him onto his back. Scar then lunged at Simba with bared claws and teeth much like he did their last fight years ago as he prepares to finish him to which Simba braces for impact as he prepares to kick the lion off of him but instead finds himself tumbling across the altar with Scar kicking Simba off of him as she sent him crashing into the back of the wall and knocking him to which everyone gasped in shock seeing their beloved king defeated.

“Simba!”

“Your majesty!”

“Dad!”

“The King!”

“Oh no!”

Rafiki, Nala, Kion, Fuli, and Ono exclaimed in shock.

“No, my baby!” Timon cried in horror.

With Simba defeated, Scar focused his attention to Celestia who was just seconds away from defeating Chrysalis until he quick ran over in her defense and took control of the beam of war forcing the alicorn princess back with his dark magic that he conjured from both of his forepaws as his eyes glowed completely bright neon green as his magic forces Celestia back and onto the ground and on her hooves while staggered before finding herself blasted to the ground and defeated by Scar as he releases another green magical blast at the alicorn’s chest with his right paw which sent her skidding halfway across the hallway leaving her knocked out with her crown falling off of her head.

Seeing left everyone more horrified than before seeing that Scar is so powerful that he was not only able to take down Simba on his own but the sheer fact that Scar has magic at his disposal too and yet is a far more powerful that even the most powerful alicorn’s could ever hope to achieve.

“Celestia.” Twilight cried out to her as she and girls quickly rushed over to her as Scar smirks at the sight of the defeated leaders while Chrysalis looks astonished at Scar’s magnificent display of physical and magical prowess.

“It looks like you’re the ones who are truly foolish, Simba and Celestia.” Scar berated the battered two as everyone looks on with wide eyed horror at this revelation.

“You’re…You’re capable of dark magic?!” Kion stammered in fright.

“Very observant.” Scar returned like it's no surprise to him.

“But how…?” Twilight asked just as shocked. “…Celestia is the most powerful master of magic here in Equestria. How are you doing this?”

“There are a lot of things you don’t know about me.” Scar simply said as they all hear sinister laughing as a familiar lioness appears from the doors.

“So very true…” She added.

“ZIRA?!” Everyone exclaimed as they all turned and saw Zira, Vitani and Nuka entering the room with malicious smirks on their faces, “Thought you’ve gotten rid of me, huh Kyoga. Well you thought wrong.”

“Oh, did I forget to mention, I also have Zira along with her pride in on all of this too.” Scar added as he pointed a claw at the lionesses who are trying to break through Shining Armor’s protection spell much to everyone’s further surprise. “As you all can now see, there is no escape from defeat.”

“Not if I have anything to say about!” Kyoga growled before she lunged at Scar and Chrysalis forcing Scar to tackle Kyoga to the ground.

“Kyoga!” Kion gasped. Zira, Vitani and Nuka joined in the fight as well as Karabi, Lite and Kovu while Thorax shyly hung back.

“Go for the Elements of Harmony, now!” Kyoga called while fending off Scar. “It’s the only way to end this!”

“But-” Fuli stammered in protest.

“GO!” Kyoga yelled, slashing Scar on his face and ramming Chrysalis.

“Let’s go!” Twilight called and the group while levitating Spike out of harms way and making their way for the exit while everyone removes their wedding attire and quickly exited the castle, rushing towards the tower as Rarity caught all of the dresses not wanting to them to be discarded like trash.

“Rarity!” Everyone called out to her to which she quickly forgoes her tendencies before removing her dress to catch up with the others.

“What do we do…?” Lani frighteningly asked.

“Panic and Run! Panic and Run!” Thurston exclaimed as they along with everyone else run for their lives away from the Canterlot Castle as Scar watches on satisfied with his work before facing off against Kyoga, her siblings, Rafiki, along with the rest of the Royal Family who decided to stay to try to stop him along with Chrysalis, Zira, along with the other Outsiders and Changelings.

“Wait for me!” Mtoto said to the elephants as they ran ahead leaving him and Ma Tembo behind.

“Elephants, stop!” Ma Tembo futilely tried to keep them from fleeing to no avail as she moved to protect her son as they fled the scene.

“Come on!” Basi led his pod away from the forces of evil inside the throne room.

The Lion and Pony Guard braved their way out of the castle and towards the streets of Canterlot before the lionesses along with the changelings were able to finally break through Shining Armor’s protection spell.

However, the changelings and Zira’s pride which had grown to at least 40 lions strong in the past months broke through and lunged at the Pony and Lion Guard as Kion and Twilight took the lead with Spike riding on the latter’s back deciding to use his fire breath to help force the Changelings back.

Each member of the Guard helped contribute to the fight. Both Twilight and Kyoga used their magic to blast them away with Pinkie using her party canon with Bunga punching every changeling that he comes across. Applejack used her strong back hooves to buck every single changeling away with Beshte using his strong body to plow straight through the changelings. Fuli and Rainbow both used their super speed to charge past the incoming changelings while swiftly dodging their attacks and take some that try to charge right at them, Rarity using her skills in karate to help take them down while Fluttershy and Ono all dodge every changeling they come across.

“Keep going!” Kion called before he used his precise version of the Roar of the Elders a few times to knock all the Changelings in their way as they all attempted to stop them back and sent them crashing into buildings and the group as they kept going for the tower where the Elements of Harmony were kept all while fighting them off to the best of the ability and doing well at it as they were all able to force the Outsiders and Changelings back and away without one of them managing to sink their teeth into one of them.

The group then reached the tower and Twilight opened the door and gasped in horror seeing another army of Changeling blocking the way.

“Stand back!” Kion yelled before he used his Roar of the Elders to knock them all out of the tower’s room.

“Alright Kion! Now let’s get the Elements!” Rainbow cheered and the group quickly went for the door. Kion and Bunga tried to push the door open but it was locked. “Guh! We forgot, only Princess Celestia can open that door! Remember, it’s protected by a magical barrier only she can break.” She groaned after letting this crucial detail slip through their minds.

“Hapana.. Now what?” Ono asked.

“Perhaps, I can lead some assistance…” a familiar voice came and everyone saw Princess Luna entering the Tower room.

“Princess Luna?! What are you doing here?” Twilight questioned.

“Your friend Kyoga told me of the nefarious plans. I knew you would go for the Elements which are protected by my sisters’ spell, so I’m here to lend you my help.” Luna said before she stuck her horn into the door lock and used her magic to break the seal, since she was connected to the Elements like her sister.

“The Elements Chest!” Twilight smiled as Luna opened the chest and gave the girls their respective Elements.

“Now let us make haste to end this once and for all.” Luna said before she teleported everyone back to the wedding hall where they found Kyoga being flung into a wall by Chrysalis and Scar with Zira biting her on the back and Vitani clawing her lower back as well.

“Kyoga!” Kion cried in horror before Kyoga managed to kick them all off, but she was badly injured.

“Hahahaha, time for take our revenge on you and your friends, pest.” Zira snarled as she and Chrysalis stalked towards Kyoga to finish her off but Kovu and Thorax came in front of her to protect her.

“Thorax?!” “Kovu?!” The two mothers gaped before they snarled, “What are you doing?”

“We’re doing what’s right for Equestria; not letting you win!” Kovu snarled. “You’ll never hurt Kyoga or Simba! Not while I’m here…”

Zira scoffed. “Y-Yeah, w-what he said!” Thorax added, stammering a little.

Chrysalis snarled, “How dare you choose these pathetic lions and ponies over your own kind! Traitor!”

“I chose them because Kyoga and her friends were the only ones willing to share their love with me, which is what I wanted to do all along! I never wanted to steal love by force! That’s not who I am!” Thorax bravely replied, making Chrysalis even more furious with them.

“I should have known you’d betray me sooner or later. You always being the soft one.” Chrysalis snarled.

“I thought I’d raised you better than this, Kovu. How could you possibly go against your own kind as well?” Zira snarled.

“You were the one who killed everyone Kyoga cares about except for Karabi and Lite. You killed her parents just because they won’t join us. I never thought my own mother would be such a killer than she’s murder anyone she pleases. I don’t know what Scar saw in you, but he was mistaken!” Kovu defiantly yelled at Zira, making her furious.

“How dare you!” Zira then scratched Kovu on his left eye.

“GAH!”

“Kovu!” Kyoga gasped, seeing his new scar with fresh blood dripping down just as Scar got done imprisoning Simba and Celestia in cocoons while trapping Cadance, Kiara, Nala, Rafiki, Timon, and Pumbaa in rubber cement to trap them in place on top of the stairs.

“Just goes to show that friendship just makes everyone weaker and pathetic.” Scar commented as he scoffed at the very concept before he went over to Twilight. “I don’t know why Twilight is even friends with you ponies, being that you never take her seriously, mock her for reading books all the time and you nearly abandoned her because you all were too naïve once again. Maybe Twilight should find some better friends rather than you...” He then said with a suggesting look towards the unicorn as she snarled upon seeing exactly what Scar wants from her.

“No way! I’ll never fall under your influence!” She defiantly refused in the face of the evilly smirking lion.

“I was hoping you’d say that….” He responded before suddenly slashing Twilight over her left eye with his claws, leaving a scar as well.

“TWILIGHT!” Everyone cried as Twilight fell to the ground in pain.

“AGH!”

Scar laughed, “See what happens when you defy the one true king!”

“You were never the real king, my dad was!” Kion growled at his great uncle. “And as long as the Lion and Pony Guard are around it’s going to stay that way, Scar!” Twilight, holding her scarred eye staggered to her feet and nodded to the girls, giving them the green light just as Kyoga works her magic in freeing Princess Cadance and snapping Shining Armor out of his trace.

Together, they activated the Elements of Harmony together and with Kion’s Roar along with Luna and Kyoga’s magic along with the combined power of love from Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, unleashed a shockwave of combined Rainbow power that struck, Chrysalis, the Changelings (save for Thorax), Zira, Vitani, Nuka, Scar and all of the changelings and Zira’s pride, sending them out of Canterlot and the beyond the Outlands of the Pridelands as well.

With the invasion thwarted, both Simba and Celestia were free of their cocoons and the others were free from their gooey restraints.

When the girls stopped, they immediately rushed over to Kyoga and Kovu, while Cadance quickly rushed over to Twilight.

“Kyoga! Kovu!”

“Twilight!”

“Are you alright?”

Fluttershy and Cadance gasped as the latter placed her hooves on Twilight as she still had a hoof placed over her hurting left eye.

“Ugh…. I’m fine…” Kovu said, letting the blood drip down from his fresh scar.

“Me too…” Twilight added as Cadance examined the wound Scar left on her face while gasping at what he had done to her while Kyoga attempted to stand but she had multiple punctures and injuries from Zira, Vitani and Nuka’s vicious and ruthless attacks.

“W-we have to get you all to the infirmary.” Fluttershy urgently stated as everyone rushed Kovu, Kyoga and Twilight to the medical wing with Fluttershy and Rarity both helping Kovu on his paws to escort him over there with Karabi and Lite doing the same for Kyoga, while Cadance does the same for Twilight.

Soon once they all managed to get there, the three of them were bandaged up with Kovu and Twilight have bandages over their left eyes and Kyoga have multiple bandages over her legs, back and her neck.

“The doctor said you all will be alright in a few days.” Simba replied to all the three of them.

“We’re just glad you’re alright.” Applejack said in relief as Kyoga frowned at everyone.

“Granted, none of this would have happened if you guys weren’t so naïve…. Again. Seriously, there were several giveaways that she was a fake Cadence. The color of her magic, which Twilight recalled was cerulean blue, and her attitude was a huge factor. She’s the Princess of Love for lions’ sake. It appears that none of you learned a single thing after the Jackal incident. Figures…” Kyoga scolded, making Kion and the others feel foolish for being so oblivious to the threat against Canterlot and being so caught up in the wedding plans.

“We’re awfully sorry Twilight and Kyoga. We should have believed you two.” Applejack apologized, holding her hat down to show that she is sincere.

“Yeah, we’re so super sorry.” Pinkie replied.

“It’s alright girls...I for-Agh!” Twilight began before crying out in pain as she held a hoof over her bandaged scar as it started to hurt really bad all of a sudden and a fainted black smoke emitted from the scar when it happened.

“Twilight!” The girls cried before the pain suddenly stopped,

“Ugh…. I-I’m good… ugh…” Twilight assured as she groaned in pain while still rubbing her covered scar.

“That Scar fellow did a real number on ya.” Applejack said grimly.

“He sure did. And now that he’s returned we must be on guard more than ever.” Kion said in agreement.

“Kion’s right. Now that we know Scar has returned, we’re going to in for a tough battle ahead.” Simba added as everyone else agreed too.

“So what will happen to Thorax?” Kyoga questioned, looking at the Changeling to the side, who looked nervous and timid after everything that has happened knowing that he is no longer welcome in Chrysalis’s hive anymore.

“Well, being that he fought against his own mother for the safety of Equestria. I’ve decided that he can stay in Equestria and in the Pride Lands with Kyoga, Kovu, Karabi and Lite.” Celestia smiled.

Thorax smiled at Princess Celestia, “T-Thank you…”

Kyoga and Kovu were happy for Thorax as well as everyone else. However, suddenly a bright light filled the room and everyone saw Astral Twilight in the room. "Greetings everyone..." she said.

"What in the Pridelands?!" Kion exclaimed. "Who are you?!"

"I am the Tree of Harmony, if you must know." Astral Twilight replied.

"The Tree of What?" Rainbow asked.

"Tis where my sister and I found the Elements of Harmony, but I never knew it could perform a trick like this." Princess Luna replied.

"Like all living things, I change as I grow. As I have grown so have my abilities." Astral Twilight replied. "I can to congratulate all of you on your victory over Chyrsalis and Scar. Kyoga..."

"Huh?"

"You've shown great growth in the many months I have watched over you. In that time, you've purified the dark magic that festered inside of your heart, due to your friendship with Twilight and the others. Which is why I have decided to take you on as my own student so that you can master your new magic..." Astral Twilight replied, much to everyone's shock.

"Woah..."

"Poa!"

"Seriously?!"

"Hapana..."

"Hevi Kabisa...!" Bunga, Besthe, Fuli, Ono and Kion gasped in awe at the Tree of Harmony's offer.

"Y-Your student..." Kyoga breathed and Astral Twilight nodded.

"O-Okay... I-I accept..." Kyoga smiled at the Tree of Harmony, her new mentor and Astral Twilight smiled and nodded at her. Kovu, Karabi, Lite and Thorax grinned at Kyoga, seeing a new chapter in her life begin.

Meanwhile beyond the Outlands, Zira was snarling over their defeat while Scar had a silent look of disappointment that they all managed to escape defeat just when he had them dead to rights.

“I can’t believe it… my own son… betraying his own kind!” Zira yelled in anger.

“No worries, my dear…" Scar assured his mate, "...we shall have our revenge soon enough. The Pridelands and Equestria will fall with me as the one true King just as I was always meant to be! Because now the war has just begun. Hahahaha!” Scar evilly laughed, knowing that this only the beginning.

Author's Note

As Season 2 comes to a wrap, Kyoga and crew meet up with the good changeling as he helps them out in rescuing Cadance at the same time Twilight finds her when Chrysalis attempts to trick her into killing the real princess.

Together they were all able to work together in escaping the caverns while saving the original bridesmaids as well as proving that Twilight and Kyoga were right about the imposter all along while exposing the changeling mastermind, Queen Chrysalis...who reveals the true mastermind of the wedding plot as Scar finally meets face to face with everyone for the first time since his defeat in the original film.

He wastes no time in establishing he hasn't lost his edge as he takes down Simba in a rematch along with taking down Princess Celestia with his own magic on his own while siccing Zira and her pride along with Chrysalis's changelings on the heroes.

Thankfully the combined powers of the Elements of Harmony, Princess Luna and Kyoga's magic, along with Shining Armor and Princess Cadance's magic, saved all of Equestria from a very dangerously close call when Scar and Chrysalis achieved Near-Villain Victory.

But their successful efforts in defeating them, came at the cost of Kovu and Twilight receiving scars over their left eyes courtesy of Zira and Scar while Kyoga was badly injured from her No-Holds Barred Beatdown from Scar, Zira, Nuka, and Vitani which required hospitalization for their injuries to be treated. Not to mention the damage and the aftermath they will have to deal with in light of Scar's return since everyone now knows that a war is brewing now that he is back with a vengeance.

With Season 2 ending on a bittersweet note in this Wham Episode, we will now move on to Season 3 with the very balance of the two worlds is now threatened with the world growing more dangerous where the most powerful forces protecting them are needed now more than ever as they prepare for war against Scar.

Episode 1: Return of Harmony Part One

Episode 1:

The Return of Harmony Part One

Just as disappearing away from the doughnut shop, Scar then reappeared towards another part of Canterlot. Said area was a maze where Scar would take the time to look inside to make sure he got what he needed out from his little trip at the castle during the Gala while everyone was distracted by the chaos.

Seeing that he got what he wanted out of the distraction at the Grand Galloping Gala he then set forward through the maze and towards the nearby garden where he comes across a stone statue that catches his interest. He would then work his magic by focusing his mind with his green eyes shining before unleashing green and wicked magic from his right paw and aimed it right at the statue for a good minute before disappearing in a flash before anyone could see him.

He reappeared on top of the mountains looking over both Canterlot and Ponyville as he gets a good look at the royal sisters getting along very well with Simba’s family along with both the Lion Guard and Pony Guard from afar as they all help themselves to doughnuts and coffee together while laughing and having a good time together like family thanks to one huge friendship bond.

In fact it was quite a bond, that it has the lion thinking back to a moment in his life where he was just an adolescent before he got his signature scar all sharing the get together like bond together with his Guard and family. Including his brother Mufusa and his parents where his mother had reddish brown fur, pink nose, brown eyes, and had quite a lovely caring appearance much like his majestic and noble father who shared Mufusa’s size and physique but like his younger son shared the same black mane and green eyes. At least until the very day where everything went downhill for everyone associated with the lion who would later become the devil to everyone later on in life.

“Such as lovely sight to see.” The sinister lion commented with his glowing green eyes with a smile that turned twisted with what he has in mind for them. “But just you wait because now I have a marvelous surprise for you all that is to die for.” He said evilly. "For this experience will be quite a game changer in your little friendship bond.”

Later that night back at Pride Rock, where Kyoga is sleeping with the royal family she finds herself having a dream to where she wakes up from her sleep.

As the lioness opens up her eyes she is starting to see that nobody not even Simba, Nala, Kion, nor Kiara are inside.

“Your majesties, Kion?” She asked as she looked around her surroundings just as she sees sparkling gems around the cave walls from a tunnel in the very back of the area. “What is this place?” She wondered out loud as she following the bright and shining Rainbow glimmer that the gems are directing her towards inside of the tunnel.

When she follows the light deeper into the cave she is in she finds herself appearing in front of a tree that is constructed out of crystal with gemstones of the Elements of Harmony on the branches from the orange gem-shaped apple, purple diamond, pink butterfly, red lightning bolt, and sky blue party balloon with a pink star in the center of the tree along with the sun and moon that resembles Celestia and Luna’s cutie marks appearing on the roots just below the tree branches.

“What is this?” Kyoga spoke as she approached the tree trying to understand why she was drawn there.

But just before she could question it she finds herself woken upon by a voice as she snaps out of her deep slumber.

“Kyoga, Kyoga!” Kion called out to her as she woke up.

“Kion!” Kyoga exclaimed upon gasping as she snapped out of her dream. “Don’t scare me like that!” She chided.

“Sorry, but I was just wanted to make sure you were okay.” He apologized before explaining. “You were asleep ever since you got here.”

“Huh?” She asked as she ran outside and saw that it was already early in the afternoon. “Oh. Was it that long?”

“Yeah.” He replied with a relieved smile. “Quite longer than any of us which is saying something considering you had quite a few more doughnuts than anyone else. Well aside from Pinkie and Bunga of course.”

“Well what can I say.” Kyoga just shrugged. “They were just good.”

At moment her stomach growled as she groaned, to which Kion stepped forward with a much needed offer.

“Well, how about you come with me and the others for a family hunting trip so we can treat you to lunch?” He offered.

“Sure.” She accepted without hesitation. “I could go for some food.”

“Then let’s go.” Kion said as they race on over to the grazing grounds where the others are waiting for them.

As Kyoga and Kion make their way over the former couldn’t help but wonder what she dreamed and why it happened while questioning herself if it was summoning her for a reason. Something that she feels she’ll find out soon enough.

In the following days since the Gala and despite with how it turned out, the Pride Landers and Equestrian ponies were all having a much closer bond as both worlds started visiting each other’s worlds more. Ponies and Pride Landers were all getting to each other more the more time they spent together and the magic of friendship grows stronger with each and every passing day.

Even Cheerlie expressed interest to Simba and Celestia of wishing to have some of the Pride Landers be educated more during her classes. So after some recent negotiations, Rafiki and Cheerlie are now both teaching class together at Ponyville’s schoolhouse so everyone can learn of both Equestria and the Pride Lands past together. And some of the eager Pride Landers could not wait for class along with the other fillies in class there.

For the past few days, Mtoto and his friends have been recently enrolled in Cheerlie’s school and have really got to bond with the Cutie Mark Crusaders since the day they met as the trio admire their magical marks of the Guard as much as the kids admire of how special they are for being the only fillies in class who have yet to find their true talents.

“Wow! I can’t believe I am here in Ponyville!” Mtoto expressed his excitement as he admired the scenery around them.

“I can’t believe we are actually going to school together!” Gumba exclaimed.

“I can’t believe Rafiki is our teacher!” Kambuni stated as the mandrill turns to rein in their over-growing excitement.

“All right little ones. We all know you are all excited, but now it is time to quiet down so we can give you all your field trip here.” Rafiki addressed everyone as Cheerlie begins the tour of the well-known Canterlot Garden.

“I want to start our field trip here, in the world-famous Canterlot sculpture garden.” She said to everyone as the walk by the many statues around them as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walk beside their teacher. “That one over there represents "Friendship".” She turned their attention to a statue with three ponies on top of each other where the ponies loo very much like the Cutie Mark Crusdaers to which Apple Bloom abruptly stopped upon seeing causing the other two Crusaders to accidentally bump heads together to which they all traded heated glares at each other. “Alright, my little ponies. This one represents "Victory".” She then directed everyone’s attention to the statue of a pony wearing a cape and holding up an orange flag with yellow diamonds on it.

“How cool would it be to have that for a cutie mark?” Scootaloo thought out loud to the other girls.

“Cool, if you were actually victoryful at somethin'.” Apple Bloom teasingly said to the peagsus.

“That's not a word!” Sweetie argued.

“What are you, a dictionary?” Scootaloo fired back as Cheerlie noticed they were dragging behind.

“Girls!”

“Come on now or you’ll missing out on some valuable knowledge here.” Rafiki added as they all quickly caught up with the others.

“Now this is a really interesting statue.” Cheerlie directed their attention to the statue in front of them.

“What do you notice about it?” Rafiki asked.

“It's got an eagle claw!”

“And a lion paw!”

“And a snake tail!”

The three answered.

“This creature is called a draconequus. He has the head of a pony and a body made up of all sorts of things.” Cheerlie explained to them.

“What do you suppose that represents?” Rafiki then asked the young Pride Landers.

“Confusion!”

“Evil!”

“Chaos!”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all answered while pushing each other aside.

“It's not chaos, you dodo!” Sweetie fired back at Apple Bloom as the two got into a heated argument together.

“Don't call me things I don't know the meaning of! And it is too chaos!”

“Is not!”

“Stop it!” Scootaloo shouted at them to stop as the three all get into a fist fight with each other as Cheerlie just rolls her eyes as Rafiki steps forward to break it up while tapping his staff onto the ground to get their attention as he sensed a dark impulse of magic from inside the statue.

“Actually, in a way, you're all right.” Cheerlie then told them. “This statue represents "Discord", which means a lack of harmony between ponies. In fact, you three have demonstrated discord so well that you're each going to write me an essay explaining it.” She then told them as the five frown at their punishment as the honorary Guard members were caught snickering at them. “And that includes the five of you.” She added as it shut them all up before the two lead the way to another part of the garden.

“Now let's go, and I don't want anymore fighting.“ Rafiki urged everyone to leave as he sensed a terrible evil emerging from the statue. “And I might want to warn King Simba and Princess Celestia about this.” He said to himself as they all press forward together.

“It's confusion!“

”Evil!”

“Chaos!”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all argued together as the statue of Discord started to crack as sinister laughing is heard from it as Scar watches on at his starting progress from out of the school goer’s sight.

As Rainbow and Ono both fly over Ponyville, their attention had been caught when a pink cloud just flew by spinning the two around.

“What the…?”

“Hapana?”

The two questioned as the blue peagsus quickly pursed it.

“Come back here, you!” She shouted as she gave it a chase before quickly catching it. “Gotcha! Eww, what is this?” She said as she the cloud contents stuck onto her fur to which she tasted it just as Ono caught up with her and examined it too. “Cotton candy?”

“Really?” Ono asked in surprise as he licked his tongue on the pink residue. “Sweet Celestia, it is! How is this possible?” He wondered as multiple pink clouds float around the skies rapidly with a small brown drop of rain falls from it.

“Wait a second! It's not supposed to rain until tomorrow. You can't just–“ Rainbow exclaimed in frustration to the pink clouds as brown rain poured onto them. “You did.”

“Chocolate milk?!” Ono exclaimed after tasting the rain. “What kind of rainstorm is this?”

The clouds then flew away pouring chocolate milk all over Ponyville as both fliers pursue them as they float by Sweet Apple Acres where Applejack and Beshte are working together.

“Hey, I didn't tell you to go anywhere!” Rainbow shouted after it.

“Huh?” Beshte said in confusion of the strange rain and clouds from above.

“Rainbow Dash, what's goin' on with this rain? I mean chocolate milk? I mean chocolate milk rain?!” Applejack piped the question as she corrected herself three times.

“There's crazy weather all over Equestria! Cloudsdale is getting soaked by a major cola storm right now! But don't worry. I'm not leaving you until I get control of Ponyville!” Rainbow replied as she flew off ahead just as the milk caused the corn to turn into popcorn.

“Okay, seriously now how is that even possible?!” Ono was left baffled by what he was seeing finding all of this absurd as Pinkie and Bunga arrive both enjoying the popcorn and chocolate milk rain together.

“Why would you wanna stop this?”

“This is delicious!”

The two stated as they eat and drank Mother Nature’s offerings just as Rarity and Fuli arrived on the scene as they both wear purple and green raincoats and rain hats respectively.

“Ahem. I heard about your troubles, Applejack, and I came to see if there's anything I can do without getting wet. Or dirty. Or out from under my umbrella.” The fashionista offered just as the rain enlarged the apples from the nearby trees to which they all made the tree branches lean to the size due to their weight being too much to handle for them which attracted squirrels from nearby.

“Fluttershy! Do somethin'!” She called out to the yellow peagsus who had just arrived.

“Now, Angel, you really shouldn't–“ She tried to plead with her pet as his legs transformed into giraffe sized legs along with the other bunnies. “No! It's not possible! I must be seeing things!”

“Just like my dad always says. Live long enough and you’ll see everything.” Beshte could only say as Twilight, Kion, and Spike arrive on the scene with the unicorn levitating a book in tow.

“Don't worry, everyone. I've learned a new spell that'll fix everything.” She confidently voiced as she worked her magic which shined a purple-pink all across Sweet Apple Acres expecting everything to return to normal but to her surprise nothing changed. “My fail-safe spell...failed? What do we do?” She then wondered.

“Uh, give up?” Spike pointed out the easiest choice.

“Absolutely not!” Kion firmed voiced against as Rarity approaches them while generously handing the two the umbrella by placing it onto the unicorn’s back as she thought of something else. “I’m sure she’ll come up with something else.”

“Indeed she will, so what’s the new plan?” Rarity asked.

“Hmm…” She then thought to herself. “…time for plan B.” She said as she turned to Rainbow and and Ono. “Rainbow, Ono, can you two corral all those clouds in one corner of the sky?” She asked as the two salute and immediately do so.

“Affirmative!”

“Applejack, Fuli, I need you two to bring those high-strung storm clouds down to Earth.” Twilight then instructed Applejack and Fuli who both comply as the former lassoes them down while stopping Pinkie and Bunga from further gulping down the chocolate rain they were drinking from as Fuli works her super speed to to secure them together.

“Hey, what happened?”

“Bring on more of the chocolate rain!”

The comedic duo demanded as the unicorn whispers something to Fluttershy who speaks of what she wanted her to say.

“Oh dear. I hope none of the animals see these delicious chocolate-filled cotton candy clouds. I'd hate to have to share them.” She said with pretend worry as the critters immediately run over to the cotton candy clouds to consume them together.

“You and me both, sister!” Pinkie said as the critters force the two out of the way so they can enjoy them more.

“Hey!” Bunga shouted in annoyance that they are eating them all up.

“And when y'all are done with that, feel free to have some popcorn for dessert.” Applejack called after them to let them know that it’s all theirs now just as everyone regroups.

“Well done, Twilight.” Kion commended.

“You see, Spike? You should never give up. There's nothing we can't overcome if we all work together.” Twilight then said to the baby dragon.

“You said it.” Beshte replied as Spike burps up a scroll with a royal ribbon on it with important news from Princess Celestia as the unicorn opens and reads it who then gasps after reading the contents.

“Come on, girls. Princess Celestia and King Simba wants to see us all in Canterlot immediately!” She then urgently ushered the group on over there as they all share worried looks of what this is all about.

Princess Celestia was currently grave and pacing around nervously to which Simba took notice of to which he doesn’t see as a good sign considering she has never been seen doing so before and that whatever they are dealing with is a very dangerous threat as he and Kyoga look on in concern.

“Princess Celestia, we came as fast as we could!” Twilight announced their arrival.

“Thank you, Twilight. Thank you, all.” She returned to everyone as they all see Kyoga with them.

“Kyoga? What are you doing here?” Kion asked.

“Our business concerns her too.” His father replied as the unicorn leader of the Guard started firing multiple questions.

“Is this about the weather? And the animals' weird behavior? What's happening out there? Why isn't my magic working? Is there–“

“Easy Twilight!” Kion interrupted just as Celestia raised a hoof for them to stop. “Dad. What’s going on?” He asked as he turned to the king.

“Follow us.” Simba replied as they led the group down the hallway upstairs.

“We've called you here for a matter of great importance.” The alicorn princess began as Fluttershy and Beshte eyed a draconequus on the stained glass portraits on the floor and on the window. “It seems an old foe of mine, someone I thought I had defeated long ago, has returned. His name... is Discord.”

Fluttershy yelped as she retreated back to the others as Beshte walk back over as while not scared he found his design very interesting.

“Discord is the mischievous spirit of disharmony.” Celestia then continued to explain to everyone while directing their attention to another stain glass portrait of him wreaking havoc across Equestria. “Before my sister and I stood up to him, he ruled Equestria in an eternal state of unrest and unhappiness. Luna and I saw how miserable life was for Earth ponies, Pegasi, and unicorns alike, so after discovering the Elements of Harmony, we combined our powers and rose up against him, turning him to stone.” She then showed the portrait of them defeating Discord with said magical powers by turning him into stone.

“Alright, Princess!” Rainbow cheered.

“That ought to keep him sealed up!” Bunga also cheered as Celestia continued to explain to everyone of why the threat is arising now.

“I thought the spell we cast would keep him contained forever, but since Luna and I are no longer connected to the Elements, the spell has been broken. No to mention Luna has still yet to fully recover from her time as Nightmare Moon.”

“No longer connected?” Twilight questioned in surprise as she turned their attention to a very decorated chamber with a stone alicorn portrait over head the chamber.

“This is Canterlot Tower, where the Elements are kept inside since all of you recovered them.” Celestia further explained to them. “We need you along with Kyoga to wield the Elements of Harmony once again and stop Discord before he thrusts all of Equestria into eternal chaos.”

“But why us? Why don't you–“ Twilight still felt the need to ask since she’s capable of going up against him until Pinkie interrupted her as she and Bunga eyed something to their liking.

“Hey, look! We're famous!” Pinkie pointed to a portrait of them wielding the Elements with the Lion Guard backing Kion up as he uses the Roar to power the Elements of Harmony needed to defeat Nightmare Moon.

“You six showed the full potential of the Elements by harnessing the magic of your friendship to beat a mighty foe.” The princess answered her student’s previous question as she leaned down to her eye level. “Although Luna and I once wielded the Elements, it is you who now control their power, and it is you who must defeat Discord!”

“And with the power of the Roar of the Elders by your side, Kion along with the Guard will help you put an end to his reign before it can even start.” Simba then added as he approached his son. “And since Kyoga has been a vital help to you all since we met her, we figured you might her help as well.”

“Really?” Twilight asked as both rulers nodded.

“Okay, Dad, Princess Celestia.” Kion replied now feeling confident as his father looks proudly and confident at him as much as Celestia is towards Twilight.

“You can count on–“ Twilight began to vow just as Pinkie interrupted again.

“Hold on a second! Eternal chaos comes with chocolate rain, you guys. Chocolate rain!” Pinkie reminded everyone.

“How can you guys want to put a stop to that?” Bunga also jumped in as she agreed with the party pony as Twilight and Kion approach Celestia and Simba.

“Don't listen to her, Princess. We'd be honored to use the Elements of Harmony again.”

“And I’ll gladly use the Roar to stop him.”

The two said with confidence.

Celestia then worked her magic by placing her horn in the hole that serves as the door lock to the chamber as she opens it to obtain the chest containing the elements with a bright blue shining light beaming out of the chamber just as she opened it to which Rarity expressed deep awe and interest in the case holding the elements.

“Ooh. You can keep the Elements. I'll take that case!”

“Have no fear, ponies.” The princess assured. “I have total confidence that you will be able to defeat Discord with these!”

She then opened the chest to present the elements to the girls.

“Huh?” Kyoga expressed dully.

“Uh, what elements?” Ono asked with a confused expression as he pointed out the chest is empty to which everyone all gasped in shock as even Celestia dropped the empty box upon seeing this startling discovery as they all gasp and drop their jaws seeing this although Kyoga’s stoic expression didn’t change.

“Oh, well. If anyone needs me, I'll be outside in the chocolate puddles with a giant swizzle straw. Come on Bunga!” She then said as they make their way outside to do so as the other’s eye the duo heading out until Twilight used her magic to pull them back over.

“Pinkie!”

“Bunga! Get back over here!”

The two addressed them as they all look at the empty chest while everyone recovers from their shock.

“The Elements!”

“They're gone!”

Twilight and Kion exclaimed together.

“That chamber is protected by a powerful spell that only I can break! This doesn't make sense!” The white alicorn expressed as she is just as baffled as she paces around the room just as they hear a chuckle from a voice from nearby.

“Make sense? Oh, what fun is there in making sense?” Discord said to her as the alicorn had anger sparking in her heart upon hearing his voice.

“Discord... Show yourself!” She demanded as the draconequus continue to laugh in a sinister manner with his vibes felt across the room.

“Did you miss me, Celestia? I missed you.” He asked the stain glass frame of himself spoke to everyone as his arch-nemesis returned glare in a no-nonsense manner. “It's quite lonely being encased in stone, but you wouldn't know that, would you, because I don't turn ponies into stone.” He added as he appeared on the portrait of the Mane Six and The Lion Guard as he leans back and taps his left hand on the images of Fluttershy and Beshte.

“Enough! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?” She demanded.

“Oh, I just borrowed them for a teensy little while.” He casually answered as he snapped his fingers on the portrait images of said elements to make them vanish into thin air.

“You'll never get away with this, Discord!” She furiously drew a hoof as she swore to him as Simba has his eyes locked on her fury as he has never seen her like this before.

“Oh, I'd forgotten how grim you can be, Celestia. It's really quite boring.” He replied rather disinterested and unfazed by her threat as he inspect his claws while sitting back on the pedestal and the glares (even the more threatening one from Kyoga) from everyone in room as Rainbow takes offense to his disrespectful attitude.

“Hey! Nopony insults the Princess!” She shouted.

“Nobody but nobody does that!” Bunga also joined in as they both charge towards him.

But of course the only thing they accomplish is smacking their faces into the glass as Discord’s image disappeared and then reappeared larger than before.

“Oh, you two must be Rainbow Dash and Bunga.” He said to them. ”Famed for their loyalty and bravery, the Element of Harmony and position of the Guard you two represent.”

“That's right! I'll always be loyal to the Princess!”

“And I’m not afraid of you!”

The two vowed unfazed that he can change that.

“We'll see about that.” He simply returned as he disappeared from the portrait.

“I can't believe we're wasting our time talking to a tacky window.” Rarity commented.

“I can’t believe you are ignoring that Discord is actually talking to us from that tacky window.” Ono returned back as the chaotic spirit reappeared.

“The beautiful Rarity, along with the intelligent Ono, representing the element of generosity and the Guard’s Keenest of Sight, if I'm not mistaken yet both not so bright to see this is all real.”

“So you know who we are, big deal.” Applejack replied as she walked up to the portrait.

“Oh, I know much more than that, honest Applejack.” He replied as his image enlarged to the size of the window.

“You seem to know our strengths too.” Twilight said to him as he reappeared on Fluttershy’s image on the portrait.

“Yes, Twilight Sparkle, and yours is the most powerful and elusive element, magic alongside Kion the Lion Guard’s Fiercest who possesses the magical and powerful Roar of the Elders.”

“It’s like you know everything about us.” The young lion commented as this foe as much more brains than the humor he lets on.

“Oh I do, Kion.” He replied. “In fact I know everything about you and the Guard as a whole. Fuli is the Guard’s Fastest, Beshte is the Guard’s Strongest, Fluttershy’s element is kindess, and Pinkie Pie's element is a personal favorite of mine - laughter.“ He went on about what he knows about them as both Pinkie and Bunga were caught snickering.

“Pinkie!”

“Bunga!”

Twilight and Kion scolded as they burst out into laughter.

“He's standing on your heads!” She pointed out to him doing so while doing a silly dance on her and then Kion’s.

“Oh come on!” Bunga encouraged the two to lighten up despite the blatant fact he is a bad guy they are going up against. “It’s funny!”

“Stop stalling, Discord! What have you done with the Elements of Harmony?” Simba then commanded and gritted his teeth as he bared his claws in the face of the chaotic foe to which stopped them all from laughing as they all eye his dangerous glare and stance.

“Oh, so boring of having to resort to your cat friend get the answer from me, really?” He replied as he relented as Simba further growled in a threatening manner to show he isn’t afraid to go up against him magic or not if it comes down to it. “Fine, I'll tell you, but I'll only tell you my way.” He then explained his riddle as he appeared throughout the stain glass windows before his spirit left the building. “To retrieve your missing Elements, just make sense of this change of events. Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began.”

“Can we go home now?” Fluttershy whimpered to Twilight as she tries to piece together his riddle.

“What do you reckon he meant? Twists and turns and endin' back where we started?” Applejack asked the pondering unicorn.

“Twists and turns... twists and turns... twists and turns! That's it!” She then said as she eyed the nearby maze. “I bet Discord hid the Elements in the palace labyrinth!”

“You sure?” Kion asked as he pondered more on “…find them back where you began.”

“Positive.” She confidently replied. “It’s where he expects us to find them so he scattered them somewhere in the maze so we can’t find them.”

“I guess that makes sense.” He replied as he gets the idea but couldn’t help but wonder if he meant somewhere else as Celestia and Simba nod at them.

“Only if that’s what Discord us to think.” Kyoga commented as she feels that the chaotic jokster wouldn’t make it as easy as he claims.

“Good luck, my little ponies, Lion Guard. The fate of Equestria is in your hooves and paws.” Celestia told them as she lowered her head to their eye level.

“Stay safe Kion, you too Twilight.” Simba then said to them as he nuzzled his nose across Kion and Twilight’s manes.

“We will. Thanks Dad.”

“Thanks, Princess. We won't let you down.”

The two vowed as they led everyone to the maze outside as Discord’s laughter is heard from inside the room again to which Celestia took notice of.

The entire Guard managed to make their way to the maze and stopped as they all approached the entrance.

“W-We have to go in there?” Fluttershy worryingly asked as she stammered.

“Nope! Dopey Discord forgot about these babies!” Rainbow smugly replied as she looked at her wings and prepared to fly over the maze. “I'll just do a quick flyover and we'll have the Elements in no time.”

But just as soon as she said that her wings suddenly disappeared and she ended up crashing back onto the ground.

“Did he?” Fuli asked with a raised eyebrow as Rainbow reacted with shock seeing what had happened.

“My wings!” She exclaimed as Fluttershy and Ono’s wings along with the unicorn’s horns disappeared.

“Hapana!”

Flutttershy and Ono both screamed upon seeing her wings disappear.

“Your horn! My horn! Ahhh!” Twilight and Rarity screamed upon seeing this as Discord evilly laughs as he appears before everyone with lightning accompanying his entrance.

“You–You should see the looks on your faces. Priceless!” He laughed at them.

“Discord!” Kion angrily glared at him.

“Give us our wings and horns back!“ Twilight demanded.

“You'll get them back in good time. I simply took them to ensure there's no cheating.” He replied unfazed by her demands. “You see, this is the first rule of our game: no flying, and no magic.” He added as he nudged the farm pony and hippo with his elbows while drawing a finger across Twilight and Kion’s manes.

“The first rule?”

“What’s the second rule?”

The fastest members of the guard asked.

“The second rule is everypony and everyone in the Guard has to play or the game is over, and I win.”

“But that’s not fair you’d win either way!” Bunga retorted.

“Exactly, little mongoose.” He taunted back as he got agitated hearing that.

“I’m a honey badger….!” He tried to shout back as his mouth got zipped up.

“Good luck, everyone!” He said to them just before disappearing leaving them looking up the new challenge he has set up for them as Twilight still was confident and undeterred by the obstacles he threw at them.

“Never fear, girls and boys. We have each other!”

“Yeah! Like Twilight said, there's nothing we can't overcome if we all stick together!” Rainbow immediately supported as they all prepared head inside the maze.

“You said Rainbow Dash!” Beshte agreed.

“If this clown wants to play hardball then I’m in.” Kyoga vowed as she narrowed her eyes at the maze in front of them.

“Alright, girls, let's do this!” Twilight said to everyone as they head inside.

But as soon as one hoof and paw set foot inside, Discord had his magic pull up tall bushes that separated them into pairs to which the other girls screamed upon this startling development.

“Stay calm, girls!” Twilight urged everyone as Kion took a turn in motivating them.

“Just everyone head to the middle as fast as you can, and we'll regroup there!” Kion added as the others set out to do so.

“Moving out!”

“Let’s do this!”

Rainbow and Fuli voiced with determination.

“Affirmative.”

“See you in the center.”

Rarity and Ono obeyed without hesitation.

“Yee-haw!”

Applejack hollered.

“See you guys there!”

“Zuka Zama!”

Pinkie and Bunga also called out as they all went their separate ways.

“What's that? Who's there? Girls!” Fluttershy gasped as she was the only pony who had budged from her spot as Beshte gently nudged her so they can get moving.

“It’s okay, Fluttershy. It’s just me and the others and they’ll be waiting for us at the center of this maze.”

“Okay.” Fluttershy still trembled as she got to her hooves as Beshte guided her through the maze to the best of his ability.

Applejack and Bunga both head down their path of the maze until they both stopped and turned a corner when something caught their attention. Three red apples that roll away from them upon seeing them.

“What in tarnation?” Applejack questioned.

“Oh, apples.” Bunga commented as he moved to pick them up. “And snack food.”

Before Bunga could even touch them the apples all rolled away from him.

“Hey, get back here!” He shouted after them as he and Applejack followed after them as they led them to a part of the maze which showed them an exact replica of Sweet Apple Acres. “Gotcha!” He exclaimed as he snatched up the apples and shoved them in mouth.

“Where am I?” Applejack asked as she looked confused of how she is seeing her home farm while Bunga is too busy eating his snack to notice as one of them lands on the cow girl’s head while the other apples nearby all fall off of their trees into three groups while circling the two. Light-red, dark red, and green apples all surrounding the two as Bunga finally takes notice of what is going on around them as he finished up all three apples.

“What in the name of apples?”

“Who are y'all?”

The two questioned as Discord’s spirit speaks through them.

“The keepers of the grove of truth. You may ask us...” The dark red apples spoke.

“...one question...” The light red apples added.

“...past, future or present.” The green apples finished.

“But be warned...”

“...that the truth...”

“...may not always be pleasant.”

The three piles of apples then cautioned as Applejack turned to Bunga.

“I’ll bite.” He simply replied as he snatched up a green apple and bit into it.

“Alright then.” The earth pony relented. “I don't trust this place worth a hill of beans, but I've got a really bad feelin' about this feller Discord. What's gonna come of this mission we're on?”

“For the answer you seek...” The dark red apples replied as all three piles stopped circling them directed their attention to the pond nearby.

“...go ahead, take a peek.” The brighter shade of red fruit added as the pond shows her a reflection of them along with all of the friends in the center of town looking at each other very angrily at each other.

“I hope I never see you again!” Rainbow’s voice in the reflection voiced in the illusion.

“Me too!” Fluttershy’s voiced in agreement.

“So do I!” Beshte added.

“Fine!

“Fine!”

Pinkie, Rarity, and Fuli’s voices all said together with fury.

“It's settled then.”

“From this day forward the Lion and Pony Guard along with our friendship is over!”

Twilight and Kion declared as the whole group went their separate ways.

“What?” Bunga just said quietly and rather hurt and crushed seeing that.

“No! Our friendship? Over?!” Applejack cried as Discord is quite literally having fun pulling strings of the apple bunches as the two are left feeling devastated thinking their friendship will be no more. “It can't be true. It just can't!”

“No way that can be the truth.” Bunga refused to believe it as the apples spit it out to them rather cruelly.

“When all the truth does...”

“...is make your heart ache...”

The red and green apples voiced as the later has Discord’s voice and face appearing to them as the two are suddenly hypnotized.

“...sometimes a lie is easier to take.”

The two suddenly have their bright fur color turn into a darker shade of gray by then one of the maze doors opens up allowing Twilight and Kion to spot them.

“Applejack!”

“Bunga! Thank goodness!”

Both leaders quickly expressed their relief upon finding them.

“We thought I heard voices over here.”

“Who were you talking to?” Twilight asked.

“Us?” Bunga replied rather blankly.

“We were talkin' to... uh... nopony! Nopony and nobody whatsoever!” Applejack lied in a flimsy manner.

“What?”

“If this is some kind of a joke we’re not laughing.”

The two questioned as the cow girl continuously shifted her eyes around.

“It’s not.” Bunga bitterly replied as he pushed away his best friend’s attention to place a paw on his shoulder.

“He’s right. It’s nothing. Come on, uh, we best be going.” Applejack added as the two walked off ahead leaving their friends unable to make of what had just happened.

“Did Bunga just...?” Kion then said rather saddened that actually happened as Bunga never turned his paw away nor spoke to him in an unfriendly manner.

“Come on, Kion. Applejack wouldn't lie.” Twilight tried to assure. “Nor would Bunga even if they tried.”

“But that doesn’t make sense. There must have been some foul play going on here.” Kion puzzled as he is still feeling the sting of his best friend acting exactly the opposite of what he usually is as they follow after their corrupted friends.

As Twilight keeps up with Applejack and Bunga, Kion lags behind as he can’t help but wonder what gotten into their friends just as he hears a sinister voice from behind.

“What’s the matter Kion? Your friends turning on you?”

“No.” He just replied as he looks around trying to find the source of the voice as a greenly smoke of magic with Scar’s head appears before him just as he turns to the direction of its appearance.

“What in the Pride Lands?” Kion fearfully expressed as he thinks he is hallucinating this as he meets face to face with his great uncle.

“Don’t feel so bad. After all friendship was doomed from the start.” He said with his voice dripping with sadism as he plants doubt in the cub’s mind.

“But…it’s not.” He defensively said as his voice waivered. “You’re wrong, Discord.”

“Oh am I?” Scar replied unconvinced as his voice turned into Discord’s with an accompanying face and image. “Because from what it seems you don’t really have what it takes to step up to leadership and be able to use the Roar to defeat me.”

As Discord lays his hypnotic eyes to place Kion in a trance much like Applejack and Bunga as he thinks back to the many times his father expressed disappointment in him combined when other’s questioned his leadership while leaving out the immediate support he had whenever that happened.

Just then they then come across Pinkie Pie as she too was corrupted by Discord’s mind game when he tricked her into thinking her friends at laughing at her not with her from past memories and talking balloons constantly mocking her relentlessly.

“Pinkie Pie! Are we glad to see you!” Twilight again happily greeted the pink mare as she happily approached her.

“Oh you are, huh? Why? Need a good laugh?” She angrily returned as she stormed off ahead.

“Pinkie? What do you suppose has her so upset? It's not like her.” She asked the farm pony and honey badger.

“I didn't notice anythin' strange about Pinkie.” The orange earth pony denied seeing.

“Me neither. Like you care.” Bunga added in retort as he followed suit as Applejack shifts her eyes around again.

“Weird.” Twilight noted of how off the others are acting. “Better pick up the pace before the stress of this gets the better of all of us.”

Twilight then set out to push the pace as Kion lags behind a little while still downcast by Discord’s words.

Elsewhere, Rarity is currently trotting her way around the maze with Ono on her back since he was stripped of his wings.

“I was expecting an audience with the Princess, not outdoor sport.” She expressed as she trotted ahead with her head up high.

“Nor was I expecting all of this to happen.” Ono expressed as he looked at his wingless body before the unicorn crashed into something. “Agh!” He screamed in pain when he fell off.

“Ono I’m sorry I’m…” She started to apologize until he caught something in front of her. “Oh my...”

“Welcome to your lucky day, Rarity and Ono. You two found the one thing in Equestria that could rival my face for sheer beauty and is something a sight for sore eyes. What do you think? You like?” Discord voice said Rarity and Ono are starting to get hypnotized by the shiny glare from Discord’s magic that is making them see diamonds in a plain boulder.

“Yes... I like very much...” She said before Ono quickly shielded their eyes and turned them away before they could be corrupted and manipulated.

“No! No!” Ono stated. “It’s a trap.”

“You’re right!” Rarity realized as she tried to walk away. “I shan't succumb to such fabulousness. Must... get to the center... to meet... the others.” But of course it didn’t last long as against Ono’s will he was dragged by the now corrupted unicorn back over to the valueless rock. “Mine!”

“Rarity! Stop! Whoa!” Ono screamed as his color changed along with Rarity’s as they got stuck in the hypnotic trance as the next thing they do is both carve out a diamond shape of the boulder

“Well, Rarity. It took forever, but it was worth it.” Rarity said to the egret feeling pleased with their accomplishment.

“It sure was.” He agreed.

“Who knew three little gemstones would turn out to be this handsome hunk of a diamond? Now to get you home.“ Rarity then said in a gushing manner as she treated it like a baby before placing it onto her back just as the others meet up with then.

“Rarity! Ono! Are we glad to see...” Twilight happily began before seeing the boulder on the unicorn’s back. “Why are you carrying a humongous boulder Rarity?”

“What do you mean, "boulder"?” Ono irritably asked as he got into her face.

“This big beautiful bedazzling rock is a diamond!” Rarity blindly corrected. “And it's all mine. Keep your envious little eyes off it! I found it and it's mine fair and square!” She threatened before trying to carry the huge weight on her shoulders as Ono continues giving Twilight the stern threatening glance should she try anything against her.

Elsewhere, Fluttershy and Beshte are both trying to make their way around the maze as the latter has to help encourage and help the timid peagsus every step of the way.

“It’s okay you got this.” Beshte gently said to her who is still hiding in a nearby bush. “It’s just a maze.”

“You’re right.” Fluttershy agreed. “I can do this. I can...” She then screamed and quickly turned back when something spoked her.

“It’s all right, they’re just butterflies.” Her hippo friend pointed out to which got her relief and interest.

“Butterflies? Wait! Don't leave me here!” She followed after them as they led them to a different part of the maze where they spoke to her.

“Fluttershy, Beshte.” They spoke them through a feminine tone from the draconuqus. “Looks like you've been left behind by your so-called friends, huh?”

“Oh, no. I'm certain they're doing their best to find me.” She remained positive as she and Beshte nod in agreement together.

“Well, it must be so upsetting to know how weak and helpless they think you are.” They further tried to break the two as they fluttered around them and got in close around their ears. “As much as having to rely on your friends giving you a lift all the time.”

“Not at all. I am weak and helpless and I appreciate their understanding.”

“And sure it’s take some extra help to keep up with the others but they too are very understanding and accommodating to make sure they are always there for me.”

The two replied undeterred by Discord’s attempts to get into his head which for once left him flustered as he continues his efforts while trying to keep speaking to them in his feminine tone to keep trying to break them.

“Yes... Well, surely it burns you up... I mean, that they're always pointing out your flaws, right?”

“Not really. In fact, I think I'm awfully lucky to have friends who want me to be the best I can be.”

“Exactly.”

The two replied as Discord angrily drops the disguise and appears before them seeing that they are not playing along to his mind games.

“Oh, for goodness sake!” He exclaimed in frustration before placing two fingers on each of their heads to force the corruption and darker color change upon them. “You two have been kind for far too long, my dears. Time to be cruel. Arrivederci!”

He then disappeared just in time for the others to reunite with them.

“Fluttershy! Beshte! I'm so glad to see a friendly face.” She happily expressed to them just as the two sport angered looks while not yet facing her. “This awful labyrinth is getting to everypony and everyone including Kion.” She pointed to the disheartened lion cub as the farm pony and egret growl at her with Pinkie and Bunga blowing raspberry’s at her direction and Rarity still keeping her strength in holding the boulder on her back.

“Aw, boo-hoo-hoo!” She unsympathetically returned. “Why don't you wave your magic little horn and make everything all right?”

“Uh...” Twilight was left speechless when the two give her the unfriendly vibes.

“Oh, that's right, you can't. You don't have one.” Beshte cruelly remarked as Fluttershy tail whipped Twilight in the face to which he laughed upon seeing as they meet up with the others.

“What is happening to my friends?” Twilight asked Kion who couldn’t find it within himself to say a word as Fluttershy rams Pinkie aside to which Applejack laughed in response.

“And what are you laughing at?” Pinkie demanded as the farm pony shifted her eyes around as she cooked up another lie.

“Chocolate milk.”

“Little help here!” Rarity asked as she struggled with the boulder to which Twilight was generous enough to do so. “Thanks, Twilight.” She gratefully replied.

“You're welcome–“ Twilight thought nothing of it before she suddenly turned back into her more vicious and hostile side.

“But don't get any ideas about my gem! I know where you live.” She threatened her as she poked her side while the other unicorn’s ears dropped at the short-lived moment.

Kyoga then makes her way down the maze as she splits between running down the path and checking her blind spots while keeping a sharp eye for whatever Discord is planning to try to stop her from defeating him when she catches her eye on something in particular…

… a group of mean and very skinny lions as they all surround her from all directions to which she snarled at upon seeing them.

“Why, Kyoga…” The lioness with a stripe on her head with red eyes sinisterly said to her as she approached her. “What are you doing out here and so…alone?”

“Nothing that concerns you.” She angrily replied as her blood boiled with intense anger upon seeing this.

“Well regardless, we both know that it never had to come this and that you have a choice.” She then said as she personally circled around the girl.

“And just what do you think you are doing?” She asked with a raised eyebrow very suspicious of her surroundings.

“Getting you to join us!” She stated as she proposed. “Just think about what we can accomplish! Think of the opportunities you can pounce on! Together we can rule the Pride Lands with an iron paw if we work together!”

“Forget it and you know why because you’re not fooling me Discord!” She defiantly roared in the head lioness’s face. “Even with all of your attempts to make this as hard as possible aren’t working because I am much stronger that what you say I am and you know it. Don’t you?”

Seeing that she is not breaking like the others, Discord dropped the illusion as he appeared before her.

“Very well.” Discord calmly yet furiously said with a low tone as he snapped his fingers to have a separate hand force the corruption with a touch of his finger.

But to his surprise…nothing happens as Kyoga looks on unamused as if this is the best he can do.

“What the…?” He exclaimed while baffled that happened as he focuses more effort into his magic. “Okay, Kyoga. You’ve asked for it!”

With extra effort on his part he unleashed more powerful magic to try to force the corruption…only magic inside of her to react to this by shielding the lioness with blinding white magic that surrounds her and teleports her away from the scene leaving her attacker wondering where she went.

“Oh well. She won’t be a problem to me anymore.” He then shrugged it off as he focused on two more enemies with one the key to napping the victory with a plan that will work in his favor…

…while Kyoga finds herself teleported to a very strange and new sight…something she only saw in her dreams but never actually thought it was actually real and true up until now…

The tree inside a cave, with a tunnel that leads back to inside Pride Rock.

In another part of the maze both the Fastest members of the Guards are both making their way around while being on the lookout for whatever tricks Discord has in mind for them. But just as they ducked for cover at a nearby bush they saw a cloud of rainbow colored bolts appearing as it floats by.

“I've got you now, element.” She confidently smirked as she thinks her element is within that cloud as she takes off after it with Fuli quickly running after them as she keeps pace with them before they realized that the cloud lead them to Discord himself as he lounged on one of them like a hammock.

“Oh. I can see why you like these clouds so much. Very plush.” He commented as he relaxed while wearing sunglasses and patting his hammock as Fuli growled and got into a fighting stance along with Rainbow who put her fists up.

“Get off there and put 'em up! Come on! Let's go!” Rainbow challenged.

“Hey, I'm just here to deliver a message.” Discord casually replied with a tone of innocence.

“Well I've got a message for you too!” Fuli retorted as she charged at him to which he effortlessly snaps his fingers to have a magical glass window appear in front of her to crash into.

She tumbled and moaned in pain as she recovers from the impact to which Discord takes the time to talk to Rainbow Dash rather seriously leaving the cheetah dazed and too weak to stand up at the moment.

“Listen closely, this is important.” He seriously said to the peagsus as he slithered around her. “A weighty choice is yours to make: the right selection or a big mistake. If a wrong choice you choose to pursue, the foundations of home will crumble without you.”

With another snap of his fingers he presented her an image of Cloudsdale falling apart in her absence.

“Cloudsdale? Crumble... without me? No!” Rainbow said with worry as her eyes got placed in a trance as a gift wrapped box appeared before her.

“That box contains your wings. You can take them and leave the game, or you can carry on aimlessly wandering this maze. Your choice.” He said to her while placing a finger on her cheek as her color started to desaturate as Rainbow takes the bait.

“Rainbow Dash…No….” The cheetah whispered as she just watches on with no power from within to do anything about it.

Elsewhere, the corrupted cast sans Twilight who is left with the burden of carrying Rarity’s boulder.

“Must... find... Rainbow Dash.” She said as she struggled with the heavy weight of the rock. “As a team... we're unstoppable. Rainbow Dash won't let us down.” She voiced confidently.

“Well, looky there. Rainbow Dash is flying away. She's abandonin' us.” Applejack commented.

“So predictable.” Ono replied as he stated he expected that to happen.

“Now I know that's a lie.” Twilight figured until she saw the peagsus is actually flying away. “How can it be?” She wondered as the maze hedges crumbled with dark clouds forming around the skies leaving the ten Guard members face to face with Discord again as the area around them turning into a small dirt pit.

“Well, well, well. Somepony broke the "no wings; no magic" rule.” He commented as he snapped his fingers and gave everyone their wings and horns back. “Game's over, my little ponies. You didn't find your precious elements.” He smugly smirked as he got into the lavender mare’s face before having an upside down umbrella magically appear in his hands. “Looks like we might be due for a big old storm of chaos.”

He then evilly laughed as thunder and lightning strikes with Twilight just jaw dropped that everything is starting to fall apart around them while Fuli is getting her strength back together as she gets herself back to her paws in time for the Lord of Chao’s moment of triumph.

Author's Note

As Season 2 begins, it kicks off with the two worlds starting to come together more as the kids all get together for school when the threat of Discord arises who of course has many sneaky tricks up his claws to make sure the Guard doesn't have the power to defeat him.

While this is going on Kyoga has been having a dream about the magic of Harmony leading her to a very magical source that she is seeing behold her after escaping Discord's attempts to corrupt her.

Let's see what happens now, since Discord managed to win his little game with the Guard as Equestria is about to eternal an era of eternal chaos heading into Part 2...

Episode 2: Return of Harmony Part Two

Episode 2:

Return of Harmony Part Two

Discord just after winning his game against the Guard laughs triumphantly as he rolled onto his back as he finds this all very funny while leaving Twilight with lowered ears in dismay as Bunga and Pinkie get right up in his face.

“And what are you laughing at!?” Bunga demanded.

“Oh, you ponies are just the most fun I've had in aeons.” He replied as he wiped away a tear that formed from all of his hard laughing.

“Well, quit it!” The party mare yelled as she touches the draconuqus face nose to nose. “You'd better think before you laugh at the Pink...ie Pie!” She then struggled to say next as Discord while surprised manages to shake it off unfazed by her threat.

“Oh, yeah? Well ha, ha.” Fluttershy replied with a smirk as Pinkie and Bunga got riled up as they face her along with the corrupted hippo

“Quit it!” Pinkie demanded.

“No. Ha, ha.” Beshte replied just as taunting towards Bunga.

“Quit it!” He demanded.

“No. Ha ha-ha ha ha.” Fluttershy and Beshte refused to back down leaving them very incensed while trying to cover their ears while Applejack eyes the boulder Rarity is carrying with her.

“Uh... Rarity? This here diamond of yours? Twilight said we should split it six ways since we, uh, found it together.” She proposed which is met with a karate kick and constantly pecking from both the unicorn and egret.

“I don’t think so!”

“HI-YAH! Try it, punk. He's mine. All mine! Ya! Ya! Ya!”

The two snarled at the farm pony as Twilight and Fuli futilely try to snap sense into them

“Girls, why are you all acting like this?” Fuli asked of them as Fluttershy and Beshte continue to bully Pinkie and Bunga.

“We need to stick together.” Twilight reminded them.

“It's just too entertaining.” Discord laughed in amusement at seeing this scene while lounging and eating popcorn on the couch as Twilight and Fuli both turn to him as they find his action really despicable.

“Stop it, Discord.” Fuli barked at him.

“You're not playing fair.” Twilight added.

“I'm not playing fair?” Discord returned rather dryly. “Perhaps we haven't met. I'm Discord, spirit of chaos and disharmony. Hello?” He reminded her as he got into the unicorn’s face that is his nature after all.

“How are we supposed to find the Elements of Harmony when you took away the labyrinth before we could get to the end?” She fired back to which Discord laughed it off as another funny joke.

“Oh, wait, did you...?” He laughed in a “Did you actually believe?” tone. “How funny! You thought the Elements were in the labyrinth?” He then worked his magic in showing Twilight and Fuli to when they last met inside the castle.

“Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began.” Discord spoke to everyone back there to which Twilight and Fuli were both shocked into silence.

“I never said they were in the labyrinth.” He recalled as he teleported them back to the present.

“But...but...” Twilight stammered.

“Keep trying, Twilight Sparkle.” He said before speaking in a mocking tone. “Maybe the magic of friendship can help you. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some chaos to wreak.” He then said as he disappeared into a snap literally as chocolate milk ran from the skies courtesy of pink cotton candy clouds.

“Chocolate milk?”

“We hate chocolate milk!”

Pinkie and Bunga complained.

“Oh, now you both start hating it.“ Fuli dryly commented. “You both sure picked a perfect time to do that.”

Twilight grunted in frustration as she tried to correctly puzzle together the riddle.

“Think, Twilight, think! Find the Elements back where you began." Back where you began.” She thought just as their friends are continuing to argue.

“Don't touch my gem!” She hostility said to Applejack who is clinging onto her boulder and holding on even with Ono’s viciously pecking at her.

“I'm touching your gem, Rarity. Ha, ha.” Fluttershy said as she placed a hoof on the rock while Beshte body slams the boulder off of the unicorn who retaliated by attempting to unleash her karate moves onto him with Ono preparing to fly in towards his friend to which is met with the hippo effortlessly repelling them away to knock them back by using his signature charge.

“Twende kiboko!”

“What’chu laughin' at?” Pinkie demanded.

“Yeah!” Bunga added.

“Ugh. I just want to go home...” Fuli just said weary of their internal bickering.

“Me too..” She agreed as something clicked in her mind when she said that. “Wait a minute... Home! "Back where you began!" The Elements must be in... Ponyville!” She then said as she suddenly pieced everything together.

“Then that’s where we’re headed.” Fuli said with as much determination as Twilight as they make their way to town but just as Twilight led the way with the others following she noticed Kion still withdrawn and emotionless and the fact that he hasn’t said a word nor did anything to stop the infighting between everyone.

“Kion? Kion?!” Fuli called out to him as he turned to face him.

“Not much.” He replied as he insists nothing is wrong as he pressed forward with the cheetah keeping side to side with him trying to get his spirits up.

“Whatever Discord said back there. Isn’t true and you know it.” Fuli insisted as she looked at the lion in the eye. “Don’t let what he said and did get to you. It’s exactly what he wants.”

“Okay.” He just said wanting her to get over for what he feels is over concerning despite Fuli having reason to take good note of his quiet un-Kion like attitude which wasn’t convincing the cheetah at all.

“Come on, girls. I'm certain this is what Discord's riddle really meant.” Twilight called out to everyone. “If we get back to the library, I have a book that I just know can give us a clue.“

Suddenly the unicorn finds herself trampled by a herd of giraffe-legged bunnies.

“Good boy, Angel. Mama's so proud.” Fluttershy meanly commended them as the sky turns to night with a small thin crescent moon on the horizon to which Kion envisions Scar’s scarred eye in place which further cemented his doubts.

“Wow, I can see so much better now.” Applejack sarcastically commented as she stepped forward and ended up sliding on something soapy and slippery. “Whoa!” She screamed as she bumped and knocked down the other members of the Guard. “I meant to do that.”

Twilight then got up and slipped back down just the night time sky disappeared.

“Discord's turned our dirt roads into soap!” Twilight correctly deduced as Discord slid on by like he is out ice skating.

“Beautiful, isn't it?” He commented before pointing to the changes he made to Ponyville where there is chocolate rain from cotton candy clouds and upside down houses and buildings. “This is the new and improved Ponyville, and these are only my first of changes.”

“This may look like fun, but it's not.” Pinkie commented as she slid by on soapy roads along with Bunga.

“That’s right.” He added while sending soap into Twilight’s face to which she groaned at their behavior yet again as Discord picks her up.

“Picture it. The chaos capital of the world.” He showed her just as the nighttime sky fell across Ponyville again.

“I can't picture anything. It's too dark.” She commented as Discord drops her.

“Well, wait a few minutes and you'll see it in the beautiful light of day. Or not.” He replied as he did a dance like leap before disappearing.

“Ponyville, the chaos capital of the world? Not if I have anything to say about it.” Twilight remained undeterred from letting that stop her as Fluttershy and Beshte slide by.

“Don't worry, you won't.” Fluttershy remarked with a mean laugh as both Twilight and Fuli groan in annoyance with their friends acting like huge jerks towards each other before pressing forward and by the time they make it to the library during the few minutes of walking the nighttime sky finally turning back into daytime.

“Why are our friends acting like this?” Twilight asked Fuli in a whisper. “What is their problem?”

“I wish I knew other than whatever magic Discord used to corrupt Rainbow Dash into acting the opposite of her true self along with de-saturating her color into a more graying one.” Fuli could only say from the best of her memory.

“Corrupting magic, huh?” Twilight replied as she examined the graying color of their friends. “If that’s so then why isn’t Kion color gray too?” She pointed out to Kion’s golden yellow fur and red shining mane.

“Weird.” She whispered just as confused yet seems corrupted as his quiet and depressed state is so unlike him. “But ever since we’ve been in that maze he hasn’t been acting like himself too like Discord did enough to do the job with words alone.”

“Looks like that.” Twilight agreed before noticing someone isn’t with them. “But where’s Kyoga?”

“I don’t know.” Fuli answered as she noticed too. “Hope she’s okay and Discord didn’t do anything to her.”

Meanwhile, said lioness is currently back at the sight deep in the Everfree Forest standing in front of the magical Tree of Harmony with the cave that leads straight to inside Pride Rock in front of her.

“In my wildest dreams, I could ever have imagined anything so real like this at all.” Kyoga spoke as she stared at the magical glimmers the tree was producing.

“Well believe it, because that is what you are seeing before your very eyes, Kyoga.” A voice called out to her from the tree.

“Huh?”

A bright hot white light shined as the tree illuminated a pony form who appears before her, the tree’s spirit appearing to her as Twilight Sparkle.

“Twilight?”

“Correction. I am not her but I am the spirit of Harmony.” She replied with a warm smile as Kyoga is watching on and silently questioning herself to make sure she isn’t hallucinating this while not sure of how to approach this.

Back in Ponyville just as everyone finally reaches the library…

“Okay, we're here.” Twilight then said now weary of what she had to put with along with Fuli. “Everyone please, please, please just go inside, please?”

“I absolutely refuse.”

“With pleasure.”

“I hate libraries!”

“Me too!”

“Me three!”

Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie, Bunga, and Beshte all stated as they all went inside while Rarity and Ono remain trying to bring their boulder inside as Kion still remains silent throughout the whole ordeal all the while their friends turn into darker shades of gray as they press forward.

“Pleeeease, we gotta hurry!” Twilight urged them to forget about the rock.

“Forget it, Twilight. I know what you're up to. The second I go in, you'll have your little minion Spike come and take Tom!”

“Tom?”

“Seriously?”

Twilight and Fuli commented.

“Well I got news for you missy.” Ono also added. “Fool us once shame on you, Fool us twice shame on me so whatever you try is not going to work on us!”

“You're not going in without him, are you?” Twilight figured as they nodded.

“Fine!” Fuli replied as she and Twilight worked together to bring the boulder inside as Rarity and Ono follow them.

Inside the library, Spike had fallen asleep while cleaning the place up in the unicorn’s absence just as he finds himself waken up by a bucket of cloud water courtesy of Fluttershy

“Ah! Brrr!” Spike exclaimed upon being splashed with the water that woke him up. “What did you do that for, Fluttershy?”

“'Cause you just looked so peaceful.”

“I...uh...huh?”

Spike was rather stunned that Fluttershy of all ponies would actually do that just as Twilight pushes Rarity and Ono’s beloved “gem.” inside.

“Careful, Twilight!” The unicorn scolded. “You'll ruin his beautiful finish.”

“Yeah, Twilight!” Ono remarked.

“Oh, for the love of...” Twilight spoke in annoyance as Spike approaches her, Fuli, and Kion with a relieved hug for his mother like figure.

“Twilight, what's going on? Why does everybody look so...gray?” Spike asked while gestured to the frowning group.

“Don't ask.” Fuli replied as Twilight placed the baby dragon on her back.

“I need you to help me find something.” Twilight then seeked for his assistance.

“Hey, Twilight, Fuli, what's soaking wet and clueless?” Fluttershy asked with a bucket of water in tow.

“Don’t even think about it!” Fuli snarled at the peagsus to get her to back off from even doing that to her on purpose.

“Fluttershy, I've had just about enough…” Twilight was having none of it when she suddenly poured water on them.

“Your face!” She replied while slamming the bucket onto Twilight’s head.

“That’s it!” Fuli then angrily said as she quickly charged at the peagsus, tackled her, and then beat her senseless.

“Kion! Do something!” Spike urged him to stop this.

Kion still did nothing and refused to take action still looking sad and depressed out of his mind.

“What's happened to everyone?” Spike asked.

“I guess you just bring out the worst in us, Spike.” Applejack bitterly replied.

“Ugh. No time to explain.” Twilight replied as she made her way to her books. “We've got to find the reference guide to the Elements of Harmony before somepony does something she'll regret!” She added while gritted her teeth with her patience wearing thin with everyone at this point.

“The Elements of Harmony?” Spike questioned as he figures out what she is talking about. “Oh, I know exactly where that book is.”

He climbed up one of the ladders and pulled out a book with golden head armor for a unicorn with blue crystal eyes on it.

“Found it!”

He suddenly drops it thanks to Ono chucking a scroll at him who catches it instead.

“Hah!”

“Ono, you'd better give me that book!” Twilight threateningly growled.

“Keep away!” Ono declared in a sing-song tone as she tossed it to Applejack.

“Hey! Applejack, give me that book!” She demanded as the farm pony balanced the book on his nose.

“I don't have any book.” She blantantly denied as she bounced it off of her nose and onto Beshte’s back who then bounced it to Pinkie who bounced it off her back and back into Ono’s wings

“Pinkie! You guys! Stop it right now!” Twilight again furiously demanded as the repeated the process twice more until Spike tackled Ono to the ground allowing Twilight to finally grab it with her magic…

…At least until Rarity nabbed it with her magic.

“Mine!”

“Hey, do you even know what you just stole?” Twilight called after her.

“No, but if you want it, I want it!” Rarity selfishly returned which really got both Twilight and Fuli infuriated especially since Kion is doing nothing to stop all of this.

“GIVE ME THAT BOOK!” Twilight shouted as she pursed Rarity while dodging the lamp cover she threw in her path to try to trip her up.

“Huwezi!” Fuli took action as she ran ahead of the two unicorns so she can trip Rarity up and counter her dirty tactics to outrun Twilight.

Twilight still was able keep up with her just as Fuli intercepts Rarity in front of her boulder only for Fluttershy to pull her away just as she got to the book to which then slipped into Applejack and Pinkie’s grasp as Twilight crashed into the boulder.

“Where is she? Where's Rarity?” Twilight demanded.

“Beats me.” Applejack blatantly denied again which was the last straw for both Twilight and Fuli.

“Lies!” The lavender unicorn shouted as she got into a fist fight with Applejack and Pinkie just as Fuli gets into a fist fight with Fluttershy, Ono, and Rarity.

The two fought viciously but it ended with the two taken them all down victoriously while managing to finally obtain the book in the process.

“Get back! All of you!” Twilight shouted at the glaring daggers of her antagonistic friends while Spike and Fuli prepare to attack while standing in her defense. “This is my book, and I'm going to READ IT!“

The two then circle around Twilight as she reads her book and as she was reading…

“The Elements!” Twilight gasped as she finds them right in the book.

“They were here all along!” Fuli said in delighted amazement. “So that’s what he meant “Back where you began.””

“This is great!” Spike then said pleased to see they found them as she closed the book. “Now you guys can defeat Discord and put everything back to normal!”

“See, girls? We did it! We found the Elements of Harmony! Together!” Twilight celeberated as she and Fuli share a high five together as Spike hold up the book containing the Elements as the rest of the Guard pays no attention to every word she had just said.

“You don't even care, do you?” Fuli figured as she asked them.

“No!” They all bluntly replied.

“I never thought it would happen.” Twilight said with a disappointed sigh and lowered ears. “My friends... have turned into complete JERKS!” She then suddenly shouted as she and Fuli forcibly place the elements around the girl’s necks while Twilight places on her tiara. “Necklace! Necklace! Necklace! Necklace! And... big crown thingy! Come on, everyone, let's go!”

“But Twilight, aren't you missing somepony?” Spike pointed out as Twilight and Fuli led the way

“Nope. We've got the liar, the grump, the hoarder, and the brute. That just about covers it.” She simply replied as she just wants to get this over with before Discord can do anymore damage.

“But what about Rainbow Dash?” Spike noted of the only Element bearer they need for the job as Twilight and Fuli thought about for a second before coming with a quick fix before sharing an agreeing nod together.

“Not to worry. Fuli will be taking over that role.”

“Now let's go!”

The two replied as the former places Rainbow’s necklace around the cheetah’s neck before they took off together.

“What? B-b-but what if she finds out you've been impersonating her, Fuli?” Spike worryingly asked in slight protest. “That won't end well.”

“Relax, I’m only wielding her element and because we are a lot alike it wouldn’t make a difference.” Fuli replied still pressing forward.

“Now let's go defeat Discord so we don't ever have to talk to each other again!” Twilight added as everyone else cheers with Spike having to duck out of the way before getting trampled in the process with Rarity struggling to push her boulder out the door.

“Move!” Twilight shouted as she used her magic to push it out the window. “Look out, here comes Tom!”

Back at the Tree and Cave of Harmony, Kyoga is still trying to understand what she is seeing before her…

“I don’t understand. How are you here? And why are you appearing as Twilight?”

“Simple.” The tree replied with Twilight’s appearance and voice. “You chose what you saw in my roots, not me.”

“So I chose to see Twilight in you?” Kyoga asked.

“Indeed. Because she is the mare that represents the magic in the friendship needed for everyone’s to grow stronger.” The spirit of Harmony explained. “From your’s, to Twilight’s, to Kion’s, the Guard’s, and by extension all of Equestria and the Pride Lands.”

“Okay, so how did I end up here?”

“The magic from here did.” The spirit replied while demonstrating a replay image of when Discord tried to brainwash her when she refused to give into his mind games. “Because the magic from within can act as a defense mechanism that can teleport you to safety when placed into a dire situation beyond your control.”

“Okay, but why here of all places?”

“Because it’s so you can better understand the magic from within yourself for you have some magic that is making you act the way you are.” The sprit directed her attention to the direction of her heart with a hoof.

“My heart?”

“Yes.” The spirit nodded. “For it will threaten to corrupt you and leave you lost in eternal darkness forever if you don’t act now to cleanse from within.”

“What?!” Kyoga took offense to that claim as her eyes glowed white for a moment and roared viciously. “You mean like this.” She then said as she calmed down as the glow in her eyes ceased.

“Yes.” She replied as Kyoga could only look aside while mortified of her sudden outburst.

“It’s okay.” She calmly returned. “That’s why you’re here.”

“How do I start?” She asked as she looks at the spirit in the unicorn’s form.

“By embracing the magic of friendship.” The spirit replied as Kyoga still wonders of how she can do that.

At that moment, Discord meet face to face with the girls again.

“Well, well, well, I see you've found the Elements of Harmony. How terrifying!” He commented as Twilight and Fuli stepped forward to confront him.

“Discord! I've figured out your lame riddle. You're in for it now!” Twilight stated.

“I certainly am. You've clearly out-dueled me, and now it's time to meet my fate.“ He said with falsetto defeat as he put on his sunglasses. “I'm prepared to be defeated now, ladies. Fire when ready.” He added a presented a target on his stomach.

“Okay.” Fuli just said while not in the mood to be smug about putting an end to him. “You asked for it!”

“Formation, now!” Twilight called for the other’s as they all groan still uninterested yet begrudgingly press forward with her demands. “Kion get ready!” She called for the Lion Guard’s fiercest to back up and use the Roar on her command. “All right, let's get this over with.”

By tapping into her magic with her eyes glowing white as her magic taps into the elements as the girls all produce a shining glow from their elements as they seem to be working to which Discord briefly pulled down his shades in surprise upon seeing this thinking they might actually pull off the job…

At least until the magic suddenly didn’t work because the many members don’t have the friendly spark needed to have them properly work.

“Now Kion!” Fuli shouted at Kion to use the Roar. “Kion?” He asked as Kion still isn’t pressing forward with doing anything and at a very crucial moment.

“What's going on?” Twilight asked as everyone all dropped back to the ground with the attempt having failed.

“Mine's workin'. There must be somethin' wrong with yours.” Applejack remarked with a pointing hoof in her direction.

“I HATE the Elements of Harmony!” Pinkie bitterly remarked.

“Hmph! Garbage.” Fluttershy added as she tossed aside her necklace to which Rarity greedily obtained.

“MINE!”

“I don’t understand!” Fuli expressed her confusion while eyeing at the emotionless lion. “Both the elements and the Roar failed?”

“Bravo, ponies, bravo!” Discord mockingly congratulated them on their failure while briefly touching Twilight’s nose. “Harmony in Equestria is officially dead. Discord rules, Celestia drools.”

Discord then trotted off victoriously on the soapy path while Twilight and Fuli both growl angrily in his direction.

“It's your fault it didn't work.” Pinkie yelled at the cheetah.

“Really?” Fuli questioned with controlled fury and a raised eyebrow while offended. “Say’s the girls who are acting huge jerks event to her best friends?”

“Whatever! I'm outta here!” Pinkie then bounced away.

“Me too!” Bunga added just as bitterly as he left with Applejack.

“Me three!” Beshte added as he left too with Fluttershy.

“I better go, too. I've got new better friends waiting for me at the farm.” Applejack then walked off.

“Me too!”

“Me three!”

Ono and Rarity added as they left with the boulder in tow.

“Yeah! I'm sick of you losers.”

“FINE! Leave!” Twilight angrily let them be. “See if I care! I don't need you guys either! With friends like you, who needs...enemies...?” She then said the last part sadly as her coat of color turned gray just like everyone else.

“Twilight?” Fuli asked in a concerned tone as she sheds a single heart-shaped tear that splits apart symbolizing a broken heart inside the unicorn.

Back at the tree, a surge of chills shudders on the spirit’s spines and roots.

“What was that?” Kyoga asked.

“The elements are in trouble.” The spirit reported. “The bearers have turned completely gray.” She then gestured to the cave entrance. “Quick! You must go! Go to Twilight! She needs you more than ever!”

“Wait?!” Kyoga called out to the spirit as it disappeared.

Seeing that her help is needed as Twilight is now at her lowest point she quickly makes her way out of the cave towards the Pride Rock cave where she makes her way out back towards the portal to Ponyville.

Back in Ponyville, Kion had made his way back inside the treehouse where while Twilight sadly walks across Ponyville with Fuli following her seeing that she is now depressed and too sad to pay attention to the scenery around along with the chocolate milk raining on her from a personal cloud from giraffe legged bunnies, buffaloes in ballerina outfits, levitating pies, and ponies defying gravity.

“Oh, my stomach! Twilight, you've got to see what I just did.” Discord appeared as he laughed in amusement with his antics just as he shakes pepper onto a nearby pony who sneezes from it with the nearby houses falling down due to now being made of cardboard copy’s.

Fuli watching this just glares at him with hatred in her eyes with that he is seriously thinking now is a good time to even try to humor her when she is depressed because of him.

“It's priceless!” Discord laughed until he saw Twilight’s sad frown.

“Seriously?” Fuli asked with defiance in her angered tone of voice. “Can’t you just leave her be? She’s already upset enough because of what you did to her and her friends?”

“Come now, Twilight Sparkle.” Discord then said trying to lighten the mood as he stopped her as he appeared right in front of her. “You've got to get into the spirit of things!” He tried to encourage her by taking her cotton candy raincloud and eating it. “After all, this is your new home.”

“Not anymore...” Twilight just said as she walked by.

“YES!” Discord cheered with a raised fist in victory as he is confronted by the cheetah.

“Just you wait, Discord! Because your defeat will happen even if takes years to come to bring you down since you are a really despicable creature!” Fuli said to him while getting in his face before storming.

“Well thank you. How nice you to butter me up.” Discord happily shrugged it off while literally buttering himself with butter and treating her words as a compliment as Fuli meets with the two leaders inside back in the unicorn’s bedroom while ignoring him.

“Twilight!” Fuli then firmly said as she intercepted her. “Kion!” She called out to the lion cub. “Team meeting now cause we need to talk!”

“Why?” Twilight replied as her tone makes it perfectly she has had enough.

“Twilight…” Fuli sighed as she softened her tone. “…I know you are stronger than this. I mean yeah our friends have turned into huge jerks. But it’s only because whatever Discord did to manipulate them into thinking that way.”

“And as for you…” Fuli then turned to Kion more firmly than with Twilight. “What happened back at the maze that caused you feel all so down? And I want the truth.”

“I…I saw Scar back there.” Kion confessed. “He told that I don’t have what it takes to control the Roar and lead the Guard.

“Really?” Fuli replied with an understanding tone as both Fuli and Twilight both look on with surprised looks with what Discord showed him. “But that was really Discord. He was just trying to get in your head.”

“But what if he’s right?” Kion still voiced his doubts as Kyoga entered the room.

“He’s not because that’s what Discord wants you to think.” She said to him.

“Kyoga?” The other two girls asked in surprise.

“Where have you been?” Twilight asked.

“Discord tried to play his mind games on me and I got teleported away to safety.” She explained. “Once I sensed that you and everyone have all fallen victim to his brainwashing I came here as soon as I could.”

“But how were you able to teleport?” Twilight asked as she finds surprised interest with how she was able to channel magic. “Only unicorns and alicorns can do that.”

“Well, apparently this lioness can somehow for reasons I don’t understand either but more importantly Kion…” She said wanting to get back on track here as she turns to Kion. “…is that you have what it takes to be a great leader and control the Roar because whatever Discord said to you isn’t true. And you know why?” She asked him as he remained silent while attentive to her words. “Because unlike Scar he didn’t let the power get to his head and doesn’t care for friendship. But you do. And you just need to remember that you are not like Scar and you’ll never become him no matter what anybody says or does.”

Kion felt touched by her words of encouragement as he works up the energy to smile.

“Wow…thanks.” He thanked. “Come to think of it. I don’t why I even listened to him in the first place.”

“Because bad guys are just that good at pulling you strings no matter what.” She replied just as they turn to see Spike uncontrollably burping green fire and scrolls. “Whoa, are you okay?” She asked as everyone turns their eyes towards him.

“Can't...move. The princess...has been sending these...since I came back upstairs. Make it stop!” Spike said in pain as he continuing belching.

“Are those letters from the princess?” Kion questioned as he recognized the ribbon and seal.

“They are.” Twilight replied as she picked one up with her magic and unrolled it. “These are all the letters I've written to the princess since I've lived in Ponyville.” Twilight noted as she began reading them. “But why would she send them back?” She wondered as she began reading them out loud.

"Real friends don't care what your cover is."

Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing."

And like the path cut through the orchard, there will always be a way through.

The best thing to do is stay true to yourself.

Everypony has a special magical connection with her friends. Maybe even before she's met them."

As Twilight continued recalling every friendship lesson she has learned since day one while color returned back into it colorful state as her heart and good faith is deep down restored.

“Of course.” Kion then said as he is thinking of what Twilight is now thinking as Fuli proudly smiles at the two.

“It’s all so clear!” Twilight then said as she faced her friends. “Can't you see? Discord's trying to distract us from what's important. He knows how powerful our friendships are, and he's trying to keep us from seeing it. Do you remember what I said the first day we arrived in Ponyville? I told you that the future of Equestria didn't rest on me making friends. But the opposite is true! The friendships I've made since I've been here are what saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon. And now they need to save it from Discord!”

“Exactly! We gotta reunite with our friends!” Kion stated of what must be done as he too pieced it together as they both turn to Spike having fallen on his back still in pain from all the letters he burped out and looking like he is going to vomit.

“Oh...uh...why don't you just stay here and rest? I'll take care of the whole fighting for friendship thing myself.” Twilight said to him as she tucked him into bed with her magic. “Come on everyone!” She then gestured to everyone.

“Atta girl!” Fuli praised her as she and Kyoga followed after her. “Kion? You coming?”

“Yep.” He happily replied before turning back to Spike one last time before they leave so he can pat his scales and place a trash can near his bedside in case he gets really sick. “Just lie down and take care of yourself. Okay?”

“Okay.” He replied as he doubled over on his bed just as Kion catches up with the others.

With an regained confidence and determination, Twilight along with Fuli, Kion, and Kyoga all set out to undo the brainwashing effects on their friends so the Guard can be restored starting with Applejack and Bunga where the two are lazing around eating apples while Granny Smith tap dances with a cane while Big Macintosh dug into the ground like a dog while houses float upside down and pigs fly around them.

“And so I tried to defeat Discord, but none of my so-called "friends" would lift a hoof to help me.” Applejack recalled as she tossed aside the apple core.

“I’m helping.” Bunga pointed out. “I’m helping with all of apples you are carrying around and don’t even need.” He said as he spit apple mush into her face out of spite.

“Applejack, I'm here to fight for our friendship.” Twilight called out her as she arrived on the scene with Big Macintosh appearing from one of the holes underground to lick Fuli and Kyoga on the cheeks before doing the same to Twilight and Kion.

“Seriously?” Fuli and Kyoga asked with equal annoyance with matching expressions.

“Oh, now you all want to fight.” Bunga irritably returned upon seeing them.

“Where were you when I was battlin' Discord?” Applejack questioned as they made fighting poses on two legs as Twilight and Fuli quickly tackle them.

“Snap out of it. This isn't you! You're not a liar.”

“And you don’t turn your back on your friends when they need them.”

The two firmly told them as Twilight works her back on the corrupted pair who suddenly have good memories from the past spring through their heads from when they first meet to every very valuable moment they had together as their true colors were restored from head to toe.

“Whoa!” Bunga said as he and Applejack place their paw and hooves on their foreheads.

“Wh-what happened?” Applejack asked as she came to her senses.

“Twilight!”

“Kion!”

The two happily said upon seeing them.

“We saw a vision of us feudin' and fightin'. I couldn't face the truth, so I started tellin' lies.” Applejack explained with regret of why she acted the way she did.

“And when I too had saw that I too didn’t want to believe and thought everything I did was being made fun of rather than laughing with me.” Bunga sheepishly added with his hands behind his back along with dragging one of his legs on the ground.

“We would never make fun of you.” Kion immediately assured. “And you know why? Because your my best friend.”

“Aww.” Bunga just said touched to the core as they hug it out.

“Can you ever forgive us?” Applejack asked everyone while taking her hat off.

“We already have.” Twilight happily replied as she led the way. “Come on!”

The group then heads on over to Fluttershy’s cottage to repeat the process on Fluttershy and Beshte with Fuli and Applejack working together as the former tackled the peagsus while the latter lassoed her along with Beshte after Kyoga intercepted him so Twilight can work her magic on them.

“Oh no! Twilight, Kion, Fuli, Bunga, Applejack, Kyoga, I just had the worst dream!” Fluttershy exclaimed upon coming to her senses.

“Me too!” Beshte also exclaimed. “One where I was one of the meanest and cruelest animals in the Pride Lands.”

“Well I’d hate to be a reality check here but that really happened. You both were really that cruel.” Kyoga bluntly remarked.

“Oh.” The two said pretty embarrassed as they remember what they said and did.

“It’s okay.” Kion assured. “It’s all in the past.”

“Yeah! Hakuna Matata!” Bunga added.

Next up was Rarity and Ono as the two were predictably unwelcoming towards them as they met up at the boutique shop.

“What do you think you're doing?”

“Get away from my gem! Get away--!”

The two demanded as Twilight worked her magic on them to which prompted Rarity to toss the boulder out of the door.

“Let us never speak of this again.” Rarity asked of everyone.

“Let’s.” Ono also repeated not wanting this embarrassment to be heard of again.

It didn’t take too much effort in finding and restoring Pinkie back to normal.

“And I-I turned gray!” Pinkie giggled as she laughed at the memory. “Can you believe it?!”

“I sure did!” Bunga joined in. “And it sure is great have my bright colors back!”

“One more to go!” Kion commented as they head on over to Cloudsdale to find the only member of the Guard left needed to have the complete crew of Element members, Rainbow Dash.

“Uh? She's not here.” Fluttershy reported empty-hooved complete with a shrug as she finds her usual home deserted.

“Without Rainbow Dash, we can't use the Elements.” Twilight said.

“We gotta find her!” Kion added seeing she is a necessity to defeating Discord.

“She could be anywhere by now!” Applejack expressed it’s a lost cause. “We're never gonna find her.”

“Yeah, we will…” Pinkie said otherwise as Bunga pointed and said…

”'cause she's right there!”

They pointed to the gray-colored peagsus relaxing on a nearby cloud from above.

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight called out to her.

“Hey, guys!” She greeted without batting an eye towards them.

“We've been looking everywhere for you!” Kion told her.

“That's nice.” She just said while still not turning to face them.

“Discord's still on the loose! We need you to help us defeat him with your element, Loyalty!” Twilight explained that her assistance is still needed.

“Pfft. Loyalty, schmoyalty!” She scoffed as she briefly turned to face them. “Have you guys seen Ponyville? It's a disaster! I'm staying here in Cloudsdale where everything's awesome.”

“Now that just makes no sense.” Ono remarked at what the peagsus defines as Cloudsdale.

“Not at all.” Kyoga also remarked

“How in Equestria can she think that tiny patch of clouds is Cloudsdale?” Rarity incredulously asked.

“The same way he got you to think that cheap rock was a bona fide diamond.” Applejack smugly asked to which the two flashed brief looks of embarrassment at the memory.

“I thought we agreed never to speak of that again.” Rarity brought up.

“Time for Plan B.” Twilight then said seeing they need to think outside of the box here.

Just when Rainbow falls asleep to take a nap, The Mane Four were able to procure a hot air balloon with Fluttershy and Ono flying up to join the other ponies while Beshte watches from above.

“Okay, Fluttershy, Ono, you two grab Rainbow Dash and hold her down.” Twilight whispered instructions to them with the farm pony and lion prince both on top of the balloon both securing a rope with a knot. “Applejack and Kion will lower me down from this rope so I can cast the memory spell on her.”

“Got it!”

“Affirmative!”

The two replied as the former quickly flew down over to the peagsus.

“Fluttershy, what are you doing?!” Ono questioned as she tapped Rainbow’s shoulder to wake her up.

“Um...I'm just wondering if it's okay if I hold you down against your will for a little bit?” She kindly asked.

“Hapana.” Ono just jaw-dropped at Fluttershy’s feeble and lousy attempt.

“Ugh...” Twilight face-hoofed.

“You dolt.” Kyoga added while face-palming too.

“Why? Fluttershy? Why did you do that?” Fuli asked while exasperated at her approach. “The one time where Fluttercruel could have been useful.”

“Nice try!” Rainbow smugly refused while placing a hoof on her chest. “Ponyville's your problem, not mine.”

Rainbow then got on a cloud and took off flying with Twilight presenting her a rope to pull their hot air balloon.

“Come on, Fluttershy, we've got to catch her.” Twilight told her before turning to Applejack as the peagsus grabbed on and chased after the graying blue peagsus.

Turning back, Rainbow flies circles around them to keep them from getting to her so easily.

“Hyah! Applejack! Kion!” Twilight called out to them as she tossed them the rope meant to support her to them so they can secure Rainbow Dash.

“Ready, partner?” The cowgirl asked.

“Ready!” Kion stated as she secured the rope as Applejack tossed the rope around Rainbow Dash.

With Kion securing the rope, Rainbow struggled to fly at top speed while Applejack held onto to Kion to keep him from falling off of the balloon as he uses his claws to firmly plant himself on the platform.

Kion struggled to speak with the rope in his mouth but didn’t want to risk losing Rainbow Dash as he grunted “Need another rope.” with his mouth full to Applejack.

“What’s lion boy saying?” Pinkie called out them.

“We need another rope!” Applejack answered for Kion. “He’s starting to lose his grip.”

Kion strained as he clenched his teeth harder as even with Rainbow unable to fly at top speed the rope is starting to hurt his mouth.

“No worries, just hold on!” She assured understanding what he was saying. “Yer slowing her down!“

“Oh, Fluttershy, would you be a dear and FLY FASTER, please?” Rarity urged the peagsus to do so before Kion loses his grip.

“I can't!” Fluttershy whimpered as she cried unable to find it in her to go faster.

“If you can't catch her, Discord wins!” Twilight reminded her to which sparked rage in her heart

“That big... dumb... MEANIE!” She shouted as she worked the strength to fly faster towards the weighed down peagsus.

“Hapana.” Ono remarked while rendered speechless.

“Impressive.” Fuli remarked with a smile. “Very huwezi.”

“Apparently takes the right amount of motivation and a very personal foe to do it.” Kyoga added as while impressed too she didn’t show the smile the cheetah was showing.

“Okay, Applejack, last rope! Make it count!” Twilight called out to her as she tossed her the rope.

As soon as Fluttershy was able to close the gap, Applejack tossed the second rope around Rainbow Dash finally halting her dead in her tracks.

Both Twilight and Fluttershy smiled at their success as they lowered the balloon down as Rainbow futilely struggled to break free as she descents back to the ground.

By the time they lowered to the ground, Beshte was able to regroup and take over the rope Kion had secured the entire balloon ride who was very thankful for him doing that as he placed a paw on his chin so he could relax his jaws.

“Lemme go! I don't need you guys! Leave me alone!” Rainbow struggled and demanded as everyone held her down just as Twilight approaches her and works her magic on her which undid the corrupting brainwashing that Discord did to her. “Wh-what happened?” She asked as she groaned and rubbed her head before quietioning the others rapidly while getting into Pinkie and then Applejack’s faces. “How's Ponyville? Where are the Elements?! Did we stop Discord?”

The girls and boys all cheer as they get together for a group hug now that they have the whole group back together as friends once more which ended upon seeing the buffalos in tutu’s while dancing ballet.

“Maybe it's a little early for a group hug.” Twilight thought seeing they still have Discord to take care of.

“Definitely.” Kyoga stoically commented. “Let’s go before I start losing my mind over this.”

“Lets.” Twilight agreed as she turned to face her. “And since you’re here we could really use your help.”

“Whatever you need, count me in.” Kyoga voiced they have her support as the others wonder of how she can help until Twilight explained to them her new magical discovers to which at first they were surprised but then pressed forward with dealing with Discord seeing that whatever magic she has inside of could be useful in a time of need as they all go back to town to confront Discord one last time.

Back in Ponyville, Discord watches from his throne chair as the giraffe legged bunnies roam across town along with buffaloes in ballerina outfits as they dance under a house of cards, while laughing at the upside down houses and pies falling from the skies before helping himself to a glass of chocolate milk from a personal cotton candy cloud.

“Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing.” He said with a laugh.

“Not as wonderful as friendship.” Twilight interjected his claim as she and the rest of the Guard showed up.

“Oh, this again?“ Discord smugly shook off again as he drank his cup free of glass before tossing aside the chocolate milk which went off as a bomb behind him.

“That's right. You couldn't break apart our friendship for long.” Applejack stated.

“Oh, Applejack. Don't lie to me. I'm the one who made you a liar. Will you ever learn?” Discord responded unimpressed as he uses magic from one of his fingers to pull the cowgirl up close to him along with the other girls.

Twilight quickly teleported in front of him while forming a magic bubble around them while Beshte and Bunga make a charge at him to help further release his grip on them.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Zuka Zama!”

“Oof!” Discord grunted as he is forced back with his throne chair destroyed from the counter-attack.

“I'll tell you what we've learned, Discord” Twilight began. “We've learned that friendship isn't always easy…”

“But there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!” Kion finished as the others smile together ready to take on the draconequus once and for all.

“Ugh, gag.” The Lord of Chaos emphasized while making a disgusted expression at the concept. “Fine, go ahead. Try and use your little Elements and your little Roar on me. Friend me. Just make it quick.” He just let them give it shot thinking they fail as he recreates his throne and reappears on where it stood. “I'm missing some excellent chaos here.” He added with annoyed crossed arms.

“You’re going to regret, doing that pal!” Kyoga smirked along with Twilight and Kion prepare to make the move needed to defeat him.

“All right, ladies and gentleman, let's show him what friendship can do!” Twilight declared as they prepare to do so when…

“Wait-wait-wait!” Pinkie called out as she and Bunga race over to a nearby cloud so they can drink and enjoy chocolate milk one last time as the others watch on mixed reactions of disgust like Applejack, Fluttershy, and Beshte, with Rarity and Ono a mix between both while Twilight, Kion, Fuli, Rainbow and Kyoga look on in annoyance at the two.

“Pinkie! Bunga! Get over here!” Kyoga demanded as the two quickly regrouped with fierce growls as most of the Lion Guard gets behind as the girls work their elements while Kyoga readies her magic to give them a boost and Kion positions himself to use the Roar on him at the right moment.

With Kyoga’s magic and the girls got a major power boost as the magical shapes from their elements spring around Discord who begins to see that something is off here.

“Huh. What's this?” He wondered in surprise as he sees the lioness smirking at her as her magic is giving them a major advantage as they work their magic against him “No.” He realized her and Twilight’s eyes glow white as the Elements of Harmony are activated just as Kion unleashes the power of the Roar on him. “NO!!!” He screamed upon being struck by the rainbow produced from the magic as he finds himself turned to stone once again.

Once Discord was completely sealed in his stone prison once again, everything his magic had done throughout Ponyville was completely undone as a dome of bright white magic streams across the town with the girls all floating back down to the ground.

“We’ve done it! We’ve won!” Kion proudly stated upon seeing Discord is now back to being a stone statue for good this time.

Sometime after Discord’s defeat with everything returning to normal the entire Guard along with Kyoga are preparing to walk through the hallways in the royal throne room where everyone from both the Pride Lands and Equestria are there to congratulate them for their heroism as Princess Celestia and King Simba with Spike and Queen Nala standing alongside them ready to give them the much needed praise near and far for stopping the Lord of Chaos as trumpet fanfare is heard as they all walk up the steps as the two rulers share proud looks with the two leaders of the Guard who led them into making this all possible.

During this Applejack and Bunga wink their eyes at them while Spike waves back at her to give her silent congrats as the princess and king address the crowd.

“We are gathered here today to once again honor the heroism of these twelve friends who stood up to the villain Discord and saved Equestria from eternal chaos.” Princess Celestia announced as the crowd cheered for them as Celestia works her magic in unveiling a nice stain glass window of them working together using the Elements of Harmony, the Roar, along with Kyoga’s magic as they defeat him to which the crowd further cheered at them for their victory.

“Congratulations, Kion!” Simba said to his son.

“Thanks dad.” He thanked as he turned to the unicorn and lioness who made it all possible as the former humbly blushed. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Twilight and Kyoga.”

“Oh, it was nothing.” Kyoga tried to downplay it slightly. “Compared to most of the Guard, you just needed to regain your confidence.”

“And that is why you are the newest honorary member of the Guard.” Kion then said as he placed his paw on her left shoulder as the Mark of the Guard appeared. “Who will be always there for us even during our darkest times as you are now the Lion Guard’s Wisest.”

“Wow…I don’t know what to say?” Kyoga felt touched and astonished by this noble gesture of the lion prince.

“You could say thank you.” Fluttershy responded.

“Thank you.” She then said with a small smile as Simba, Nala, and Rafiki watch proudly at what had transpired.

"That's our boy." Nala compliented.

“Never one for tradition, huh?” He asked with a nudge at the lion king who still smiles upon seeing this big change.

“Times are changing and as of now we are becoming more than that.” He said as he sees the beginning of the merging new era while looking on as they all get together for photos for the journalists to take for the upcoming papers. “Because as of now, we are one.”

Unbeknownst to anybody, Scar was watching them from outside as he makes his leave in a flash out of sight in between windows.

“For now.” He commented to himself as he calmly takes in what had transpired too. “Because now I got what I wanted out of that.” He said as he works his magic to presenting an aura of magic with Twilight Sparkle herself in it leading everyone to confronting Discord even after everything he did to corrupt her and her friends through a green ball of magic. “The key to many victories to come to make way for me to assume the throne as well as one opponent to look out for.” He added as he locked eyes on the team’s newest member of the guard.

As Scar looks on seeing Twilight Sparkle as the one to help him into power over the two worlds he thinks back to when he snuck through the palace when everyone was screaming due to chaos that happened at the Grand Galloping Gala he managed to make his way to the royal vault undetected as he was able to work his magic from his paws in unlocking the chamber containing the elements.

Once Scar got what he was looking for he left the chest closed and behind as he re-locked the chamber so no one would know what happened until it was too late before making his escape in a flash to where the entire crew is having doughnuts and coffee together.

During which he eyed the elements in his paws as he laid eyes into Twilight’s tiara in particular as thought from observing the Guard in secret came to light in his mind. Her undeterred confidence she displayed from day one in leadership and how they always triumph even when the odds are stacked against them. Throughout time, he couldn’t help but feel impressed and wonder how to see to it that she is the one he finds the most valuable to his cause.

So he went ahead and worked his magic on Discord statue to further weaken the spell Celestia and Luna had used a thousand years ago before moving to place the Elements inside of Twilight’s reference book to said items before continuing to monitor everyone as Discord plays his mind games on everyone before going over to crush Kion’s spirit with his words alone. Even with what he saw he still thinks he hallucinated that yet was broken by his devastating speech.

“Too bad Kion’s self-esteem isn’t as strong as Twilight's…yet predictable.” The lion commented while shaking his head. “But still has the power of the Roar to back himself up with. Which I will need him to use again for my next test for this girl.” He said as he presents himself an image of the two leaders of the Guard while focusing more attention on the unicorn in charge. “The Pony Guard. So nice to get to know you. Especially you Twilight Sparkle.” He added as he sinisterly locked eyes on her. “Because I have plans for you. Big plans indeed.” He then said as he evilly laughed before disappearing in a flash.

Author's Note

In Part Two of the Season 2 premiere, the Guard has reached it's lowest point together as everyone minus Kion and Fuli has turned grey with the former still in a Heroic BSOD as a result of what happened in the maze.

Fuli the only one not corrupted nor giving up as she even attempted to wield the Element of Loyalty in Rainbow's absence along with Kyoga's appearance is what snapped Kion out of it while Celestia having prepared for Discord's return managed to help snap Twilight out of her funk along with Fuli's words of encouragement between a mix of balancing of soft and tough love for them before things work out in the end as the Pony Guard prevails and defeats Discord thus returning him back to stone once again.

Kyoga during the time away was at the Tree of Harmony along with the Cave of Harmony that leads her directly back to Pride Rock just like in her dream as through the tree's spirit who appeared as Twilight explained to her about the magic from within her and why she was teleported here. With her understanding of friendship to snap Kion out when he succumbed to his mind game along with the magic inside of her she was able to help the Guard out big time which earned her a spot on the team. The Guard's Wisest.

Having said that while Discord's appearance played right into Celestia's hooves, it also and really benefited as it played right into Scar's paws who arranged his Xanotos Gambit as a test of friendship so he can better understand and know more about the Guard himself. He was the one who really appeared before Kion and was the one who stole the Elements during the Grand Galloping Gala and set the entire chain of events of the first two episodes of the season in motion.

With that he now has a new plan set in stone for taking over with his sights set on Twilight Sparkle to help him accomplish that goal heading into Season 2 as the villainous lion fueled with magic at his disposal takes over the role as the Big Bad in this story so stay tuned because his next plan comes with "Lesson Zero." next on the schedule.

Episode 7: The Imaginary Okapi

Episode 7:

The Imaginary Okapi

It was a beautiful day in the Pride Lands, and the Lion Guard were running through another one of their practice drills. Kion sniffed the air as he followed a set of tracks in the dirt. He saw that the tracks disappeared into the grass, near few trees. Kion chuckled and rolled his eyes.

A rainbow tail fell over the side of a branch, brushing against Kion's mane. The golden colored cub quirked his brow and grabbed the rainbow tail between his teeth and pulled, yanking Rainbow from the branch.

"Kion!" she whined, casting an half-lidded glare up at the prince, who only grinned while still holding her tail between his teeth. The female pegasus sat up, her eyes still on her friend, "Could you please drop my tail?"

With a laugh, Kion dropped Rainbow’s tail, "Found ya." he chuckled.

"Yeah, you did." Rainbow giggled with a roll of her eyes.

"You two done?" Bunga asked, standing on top of a rock with his arms folded over his chest. "Or can I get in on the wrestling?"

"We're done." the pair answered in unison.

Fuli sat with her tail wrapped around her front paws next to Bunga.

"I still don't get it, Kion." she sighed. "Why are we playing hide-and-seek in the first place?"

"It's not just hide-and-seek Fuli." Kion informed. "It's a way to practice our tracking skills."

"Besides, it's fun." Bunga added.

"How long did it take Kion to find you guys?" Fuli asked, raising her eyebrow.

"Somehow he found me and Pinkie Pie right away." Bunga answered.

"You two laughed when I walked past you both." Kion informed with a smirk.

"Kion found me pretty fast, too." Ono added, perched on a rock between Twilight and Fuli.

"He found me and Twilight before he went to look for you." Fuli said while tapping her tail on the ground.

“He found me mighty quick because my mane was sticking out…” Applejack replied. “He found Rarity cause of whining.”

“I wasn’t whining! I was just expressing my discomfort.” Rarity objected to the contrary.

“That’s whining…” Applejack deadpanned.

Fuli looked around and realized they were missing two more members. "What about Fluttershy and Beshte?"

Kion chuckled, "Yeah, I found them a while ago." he answered. "I just haven't told them yet." He looked back in the direction of a large rock pile not too far from where they were standing, one of the rocks looked a bit darker in color and smoother. "Okay, Fluttershy and Beshte! You two can come out from behind the rocks now!" Kion called.

Fluttershy and Beshte revealed themselves with a chuckle, "Pretty good hiding place, right?" the hippo questioned, joining their friends.

"I have to admit, for someone your size, you're a surprisingly good hider." Ono pointed out.

"Thanks." the hippo grinned.

"Okay, Fuli. Everyone's been 'it' but you." Kion looked at her cheetah friend. "Close your eyes so we can all go hide."

"Fine." the Guard's fastest let out a long groan. "But I warn you. I'm the fastest finder in the Pride Lands." She grinned.

"Oh, yeah?" Bunga challenged, jumping onto a large boulder behind them. "Well, I'm the fastest hider!" He laughed as he jumped from the rock to a tree before diving into the tall grass while everyone else just stood there and blinked in response.

"He does realize that doesn't count for anything, right?" Twilight questioned.

"I'm not sure he does." Ono answered with a shrug.

Fuli rolled her eyes and let out a sigh. "Okay. Everybody go hide!" She exclaimed, closing her eyes. The rest of the Guard scattered to find their own hiding spots. After a minute or two, Fuli hunched her body, "Ready or not, here I come!" the cheetah called out as she tracked her friends.

Meanwhile, Kyoga was wandering around the Pridelands by herself, looking for something to do while she was here. Kyoga sighed, not seeing anything exciting, until some bushes started to rustle. “Huh? Whose there?” Kyoga called out.

Out of the bushes stepped an animal that Kyoga had seen before. He had a well-built body with a long neck and brown fur. He had white, skinny legs, donned with black stripes, pointy ears, white markings on his face and green eyes. He was called on Okapi.

“Huh? Ajabu?”

“Kyoga?” the okapi replied with a laugh, “Well, I didn’t think I’d find you here.”

“Me either after the….. Incident.” Kyoga said, folding her ears a little showing visible discomfort from the subject.

“How have you been holding up?” Ajabu asked the lioness.

Kyoga sighed before answering, “I’ve…. Been better….. Haven’t found any sign of Karabi or Lite…. If they’re even still alive…”

“I’m sure you’ll find them one day, Kyoga.” Ajabu replied with a smile.

Kyoga grinned at the Okapi, “Thanks Ajabu. Anyway, what are you doing in the Pridelands?”

“I came here seeking shelter from a leopard. He chased me all the way here.” Ajabu replied.

“Woah, that must be on persistent leopard.” Kyoga replied. “Don’t worry Ajabu. You’ll be safe with me. You’re in the Pridelands now. Come on I’ll give you a tour.”

With that Kyoga gave Ajabu a tour of the Pridelands all while singing.

Life in the Pridelands

“Wow…. this place does seem very nice..” Ajabu replied as the pair walked towards Kyoga’s territory that was at the very edge of the Pridelands. It was a large field with some trees for her to relax in and a large lake fed by an underground spring that held fish for her to eat. There was also a cave that served as her home/den during the nights as well.

“Well, this is where I’ve started living….” Kyoga replied.

“Nice place.” Ajabu grinned. “So what else is there to see?”

“This way…” Kyoga said, leading Ajabu towards some fields.

Meanwhile, Fuli caught the scent of one of the Guard and tracked it to a hollow log. She chuckled before growling into the log, causing Bunga and Pinkie to jump out with a shout. "Gotcha!" the fastest giggled.

"How come everybody always finds me first?" the bravest asked, resting his cheek on his hand.

"Maybe it has something to do with your smell." Fuli stated with a smirk.

Bunga took a long whiff of his own scent and stood tall with his hands on his hips, "It is unmistakable, isn't it?" he grinned.

"That's one way of looking at it." Fuli muttered of how it sure is unquestionably before focusing on those she has still yet to find. "Now to find Ono, Beshte, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Besthe and Kion." the cheetah then looked around and spotted a set of tracks in the dirt. "Oh, and speaking of..." she sniffed the ground, catching the scent of the lion prince, "...here's a nice fresh set of Kion's tracks."

"Right behind ya, Fuli!" Bunga called, running after the spotted female.

“Yippee!” Pinkie Pie cheered.

Fuli continued to follow the prints in the dirt, when she suddenly realized that they didn't belong to Kion. Bunga was following close behind her and ran into her back leg when she stopped. "What you got, Fuli?" the honey badger asked, rubbing his forehead where it collided with her leg.

"These aren't Kion's tracks." Fuli answered, with a raised brow.

Bunga examined the tracks, noticing a size difference, "Unless he's got one foot bigger than the others." he noted.

The Guard's fastest shook her head. "Everyone! Game's over!" she called out. "You guys need to see this!"

The group heard the female cheetah and they came out of their hiding places, regrouping with Fuli and Bunga.

"You found something, Fuli?" Kion asked as he ran up to his cheetah friend.

"Any idea what kind of animal makes tracks like that?" Fuli asked, motioning to the prints in the dirt.

"Hevi Kabisa! These are leopard tracks." Kion exclaimed upon recognizing the shape of them.

“That’s what I thought too.” Fuli added.

"Leopard tracks." Bunga repeated, "You sure?”

“Yep.” Kion confirmed.

"But there aren't any leopards living in the Pride Lands." Ono reminded, perching on the lioness' shoulder.

"Well, there's one now." Kion informed. "The question is, where."

The Guard's Fiercest glanced at the egret on her shoulder, "Ono?"

“Affirmative.” Ono saluted before he got looking.

"Any chance it's just a hyrax with really big feet?" Bunga questioned, earning a glare from Fuli.

“No….” Fuli deadpanned.

Ono flew overhead and spotted a large cat with pale lemon fur, donned with brown rosettes lined in black, stalking through the tall grass near a herd of gazelles.

"Hapana." the egret gasped as he circled around to the rest of the Guard. "Everyone! I saw the leopard!" he alerted, hovering above his friends. "He's going after some gazelles!"

"Lead the way, Ono." Kion ordered, glancing back to his friends. "Till the Equestria and the Pride Lands' end..."

"...Pony and Lion Guard defend!" The others finished as they ran towards the gazelle herd.

The leopard hunched low to the ground, his claws digging into the soft dirt. He let out a low growl as he stalked towards a gazelle that was grazing. It looked at him but paid no attention, not realizing the threat.

The Lion Guard jumped between the leopard and the gazelle herd, "Get out of the Pride Lands, leopard!" Kion growled. "Now!"

"Name's Makucha, lion." the leopard snarled with a smirk. "You want me to go, you're gonna have to make me. But you'll have to catch me first!" he spun around and sped off into the grass.

“No problem!” "Huwezi!" Rainbow and Fuli yelled confidently, racing after Makucha with the rest of the Guard on her heels. The two three raced down the side of Big Ravine, "You got nowhere to go now!" Fuli called out.

"That's what you think, cheetah." Makucha chuckled, before quickly turning sharply and leaping over the ravine. He landed on the other side and laughed at the Guard before running away. Fuli tripped over her own paws and let out a grunt as she fell on her stomach.

The leopard laughed before he was tackled by Rainbow Dash, “You forgot, I can fly buster!”

The leopard snarled and slashed Rainbow near her face, clipping some fur, “AH!”

“Rainbow!” Twilight gasped before Makucha pushed her off and ran away. Rainbow managed to fly back to the others,

“Rainbow, are ya alright?” Applejack asked before Fluttershy took a look at the claw mark. Luckily, it missed her eye and just showed to be an inch long on her right cheek.

“Doesn’t look that bad, Rainbow.” She told her.

“Man, that leopard sure can jump," Bunga observed.

"Pretty fast, too." Fuli added, still panting.

"This guy's not gonna be easy to catch." Kion noted.

"Did you see the gazelles?" Ono asked, "They weren't scared of the leopard at all."

“That’s why we have to get him out of the Pridelands before he hunts again. Because there’s never been a leopard here before so they don’t know it's a predator. ” Twilight replied.

"So, they don't realize they should be scared." Fuli quirked her brow.

"They're all going to be sitting ducks." Bunga gaped.

"Especially the ducks." Ono added under his breath.

Kion nodded, looking to the rest of his team. "Now let's split up so we can cover more ground." he ordered. "Twilight, Girls with Me and Fuli." "Bunga, you, Besthe and Ono check the fields and valleys.”

“Right.” Everyone said before they split up.

Standing on a small cliff overlooking the fields, Kyoga and Ajabu were overlooking a field filled with zebra and gazelles. “Wow… there are so many animals here.” Ajabu smiled.

“Yeah there are, and there are no leopards in the Pridelands. Most of them live in the Backlands.” Kyoga replied.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that….” a sinister voice came from behind them.

Ajabu and Kyoga turned around and Ajabu gasped seeing the male leopard, “Makucha!”

“Hello Okapi, glad we could catch up….” Makucha snarled. Kyoga stepped in front of her friend.

“Back off leopard, unless you want trouble.” She warned him against pursing this.

Makucha laughed the threat off, “What can a lioness like you possibly do against me? You only got three legs…!”

“Don’t underestimate my fighting skills. Ajabu, get out of here, now!” Kyoga replied and ordered as Ajabu nodded before he made a break for the field below.

“Oh no you don’t!” Makucha snarled before he tried to lunge at Ajabu but Kyoga rammed him to the side and into a tree before she pinned him to the ground. “Get off me!” Makucha snarled before he pushed Kyoga off of him. Kyoga snarled and pounced onto Makucha’s back, biting him on the base of the neck, making him scream in pain before he threw Kyoga off and ran away.

Kyoga licked her lips and spit out the leopard's blood,

“And stay away!” she yelled right before Kion and the girls arrived,

“Kyoga! Are you okay?”

“We saw you fightin’ that leopard varmint.”

Kion and Applejack started.

“I’m… fine… right now. I have to find Ajabu again.”

“Who?” Kion and the girls asked in unison.

“Ajabu, my Okapi friend from my old home.”

“What’s an Okapi?” Applejack asked.

“It’s a very secretive animal that only lives in Africa. Their legs and back half have stripes like a zebra while the upper half has a long neck and small acicone like horns on its head.” Fluttershy replied.

“That sounds like a magical creature rather than a real one, Fluttershy.” Fuli said, not really believing Fluttershy or Kyoga.

“That’s because they only lived back where I came from…. Until….” Kyoga folded her ears and Kion and the girls looked concerned for her, knowing she was referring to whatever incident lead to her injuries and her mental health issues as she sighed before quickly changing the subject, “Anyway, I have to find Ajabu before Makucha does. He said he chased him all the way here.”

“We can help too. Fluttershy, you know what an Okapi looks like so you can search from the air to find him.” Kion replied.

“O-Okay….” Fluttershy replied before she fluttered into the air in search of Ajabu.

Meanwhile, Ono, Besthe and Bunga were examining the field that held lots of zebras before they spotted something that was brown with stripes on its legs and back, running past them, “Pardon me!”

“What the-? What was that?” Beshte asked.

“I have no idea…” Ono added.

“Whatever it was, it sure is fast…” Bunga replied, seeing the animal running away. Then, they heard from above, “Wait Ajabu, come back!”

“Huh? Fluttershy?” the boys quipped seeing the pegasus flying after the Okapi.

“What’s going on?” Ono replied.

“I don’t know but let's follow her.” Besthe suggested and the boys followed after Fluttershy and the animal, called Ajabu.

Meanwhile, Rainbow spotted her best friend chasing after the Okapi and the boys chasing after them, “I think Fluttershy’s found him and so have the others.” she reported.

“Twilight?” Kion asked, looking at the unicorn.

“Right.” Twilight replied before she teleported everyone in front of Ajabu, spooking him and making him fall on his side.

“Wah! Who are you all?” Ajabu asked.

“Easy Ajabu, it’s alright. They’re the guys I met here.” Kyoga replied to the skittish Okapi.

“Oh friends of yours?” Ajabu questioned.

“Er….. more like…. Creature I know..” Kyoga replied. “It’s alright. They won’t hurt you.”

“Okay Kyoga.” Ajabu replied.

“Wow… what kind of animal are you?” Besthe asked as the boys caught up to the others.

“I’m an Okapi.” Ajabu replied before he used his long purple tongue to clean his ear. “Woah, nice tongue.” Bunga smiled.

“That’s another feature they have in common with giraffes, they have long purple tongues they use to eat their food.” Fluttershy replied as she landed near Abaju.

“And that Okpai will be my food.” Makucha snarled as the group saw him stalking near them.

“Makucha, back off! Ajabu’s not your prey anymore!” Fuli snarled.

"Why don't you mind your own business?" he growled at the younger animals approaching him. "I'm just saying 'hello' to an old friend."

"This is our business." Kion snarled.

"And you're not acting too friendly." Fuil growled, standing beside the lioness.

"So leopards say hello with their teeth, so what?" Makchua chuckled.

"So it's time for you to say goodbye." Kion growled.

"Come on!" Makucha challenged, preparing to attack. "I can fight eleven at once." The leopard narrowed his eyes and bared his teeth. But Twilight blasted him with her magic and sent him crashing to the ground.

“How about against Magic?” Twilight smirked.

Makuchua got up and snarled, “You’re gonna regret that!” He then made a lunge at Twilight but Rainbow tackled him, “That’s for scratching my face!”

Makucha snarled and tried to take another swipe at Rainbow but the pegasus quickly flew up, allowing Applejack and Rarity to kick him in the face.

“Ha! Take that you ruffian!” Rarity smirked.

Out of nowhere, Ono dive-bombed Makucha, jabbing the cat's head with his beak.

"You guys are amazing!" Ajabu praised, standing next to Beshte a few feet from the fight.

"Thanks." Beshte replied. "Now you stay here. I'll be right back."

Makucha snarled as the group advanced towards him. A loud bellowing drew his attention away, making the leopard back away to avoid being trampled.

"Fine, have it your way!" Makucha growled in annoyance. "Not even an okapi is worth this." He spun around and ran back towards his own territory.

"Don't stop till you're out of the Pride Lands!" Fuli yelled after him.

When he was finally gone, Ajabu sighed with relief, "I don't know how to thank you for saving me."

"It's what we do." Kion replied with a smile.

Bunga walked up to get a better look at Ajabu, who leaned down and sniffed him. "Are you a honey badger?" he questioned.

"I sure am!" Bunga agreed with a grin.

"Wow! I've heard of honey badgers, but I never believed they were real." Ajabu laughed. Bunga raised an eyebrow in confusion, asking why. "I figured nobody could look and smell like that. I thought they had to be made up." the okapi laughed again. "But you're real."

Bunga nodded, "I'm as real as it gets!"

"Oh brother." Fuli sighed with a roll of her eyes.

"You're not planning on going back home, are you?" Kion asked, "Makucha will be waiting for you."

“Yeah….. I don’t have a home anymore.” Abaju replied looking at Kyoga, whose ears were folded at the mention of their old home. "What else am I gonna do?"

"Kion?" Twilight glanced back at her friend. Seeing the look in her eyes, Kion gave a nod,

"I've got an idea." he said to the okapi. "Follow us."

The Lion Guard escorted Ajabu to Pride Rock to meet with Celestia, Luna, Simba and Nala.

"Princesses, Mom, Dad? This is Kyoga’s friend, Ajabu. He came to the Pride Lands as a visitor, but he'd really like to stay." Kion informed his parents and the Princesses. "If he has your blessing."

Simba exchanged a glance with Nala and the two shared a nod. "Of course, Ajabu." the King agreed. "You're welcome to stay in the Pride Lands."

"For as long as you like." Nala added.

“Indeed.” Celestia added.

“Any friend of Kyoga’s is welcomed to stay here as well.” Luna added.

"Oh, thank you, Your Highness!" Ajabu replied. "Thank you!"

"We're happy to have you here, Ajabu." Nala smiled.

The rest of the Lion Guard cheered as they circled around the newest addition to the Pride Lands.

Author's Note

In this version of this episode the Guard meets Ajabu, an Okapi native seeking refuge from Makucha the very persistent leopard constantly pursing him all the way out here to the Pride Lands.

Thanks to Pikachu Skitty putting together this episode, the part where Beshte came across him and came across as Cassandra Truth to Bunga and Ono has been instead replaced with Kyoga meeting with him and giving him the tour across the Pride Lands. The two are good friends having met up sometime in the past with Ajabu knowing about of the lioness's traumatic past.

By working together, the Lion and Pony Guard were able to drive off Makucha with Ajabu earning much-deserved residence in the Pride Lands and guranteed safety from the leopard.

Next up is "Too Many Memories." which will be a rewrite of "Too Many Termites." where Kyoga will be the main focus in this episode with her past resurfacing again.

Episode 23: The Super Speedy Squeezy Cider 6000

Episode 23:

The Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000

It’s almost early in the morning here in Ponyville but the sun has yet to rise as Fluttershy is currently sleeping soundly in her bed at her cottage when she heard someone knocking on her front door.

“Who could that be?” Fluttershy yawned as she woke up upon hearing it. “It's still dark!”

Said figure was Rainbow Dash as she burst inside through her bedroom window as she immediately wasted no time and trying to get Fluttershy out of bed.

“C'mon, Fluttershy!” She urged her to get a move on. “Cider season's about to start!”

Rainbow quickly removed the bed covers from her bed to reveal Fluttershy was currently wearing a clear see through robe to which she blushed in embarrassment of being seen ‘naked” as Rainbow whisked her out of the house not caring or bothering to comment on her sleep wear as it was now the crack of dawn.

“Oh, where are we? What's the rush?” Fluttershy asked.

“The rush?” Rainbow brought up. “Don't you remember what happened last year? Or the year before that? Or pretty much any cider season ever?”

“Um, well, uh–“

“Pinkie Pie. She always ends up ahead of us in line, and then they always run out of cider!” Rainbow further explained as she is hardly letting Fluttershy get a word of her response in.

“I guess I–“

“Well, not this year!” Rainbow voiced with determination to change that. “This year I'm gonna get there before sunrise, so I can drink all the cider I want and laugh when she doesn't get any! It's the perfect plan. Y'know, I might even buy some cider and hold onto it for a while, drinking it drop by drop in front of her–

She then gasped as she saw a huge line of tents in front of them already there wanting want she wanted.

“Gee, Rainbow Dash. It looks like a few other ponies had the same idea.” Fluttershy voiced as she approaches the first pony and tent in line, Pinkie Pie as she had party balloons emerge from her tent with her mane looking a little messy upon waking up. “Oh, gosh, Pinkie. I love your new style.”

“Who are all these ponies?!” Rainbow asked.

“Isn't this great?” She excitedly asked as she shook her mane back into it’s kempt state. “I couldn't sleep last night 'cause I was so excited about cider season, and I had this brilliant idea to come down here and camp out, so I told a few others about it, and they all thought it was a great idea too, and now it's just a big old cider party!” She rapidly explained as she tightly hugged both peagsus ponies. “Woo-hoo!” She then saw the long line of tents on the horizon. “Oh, gosh, that's a lot of ponies. Hope they don't run out before you get any.” She then casually made her way back to her waiting spot. “Hey, Bunga, rise and shine! It’s almost opening time!”

“Really?! Oh, ho, yeah, cider time!” Bunga exclaimed just as excited as Rainbow Dash is left fuming in fury at the mare’s insensitivity for always (well unintentionally) managing to find some way to ensure that she doesn’t get any cider again.

Nevertheless, the two got in line as they await the many ponies in front of them to get their apple cider in front of the many ponies and Pride Landers gathered together to get a gander at the Apple Family’s famous and seasonal beverage where Mr. and Mrs. Cake are set near the front of the line with Twilight, Spike, Kion, and Rarity up near the front as well.

“Isn't this exciting, Spike?” Twilight eagerly expressed. “Opening day of cider season!”

“Yeah! That means it's only thirty more days 'til sapphire season!” Spike returned as he licked his lips together while the others roll their eyes together expect for Kion who looks on confused.

“Should I even...” Kion began towards both unicorns who both shake their heads to tell him not to bother asking while slightly rubbing his eyes that have yet to completely awake. “…Right. Anyways, I hope this apple cider is all worth camping overnight here just as Pinkie described it.”

“Oh, it’ll be definitely worth it.” Twilight assured their friend. “If it weren’t Pinkie talking non-stop about I wouldn’t have even considered all of this.”

As soon as Twilight finished speaking, Applejack then made the announcement everyone has been waiting for through her megaphone.

“Attention, everypony! Cider season is now officially open!” She declared as everyone gets all ready for the line to start moving with the first pony and honey badger in line as the former presents a huge number of bits for the first dozen mugs.

With a nod from the head of the matriarch of the Apple Family, Apple Bloom pushed down on a nearby lever which poured freshly made apple cider in a dozen mugs for them. To which they wasted no time in downing their first mug before they walk off together so they can share some of the mugs with the rest of the Guard who couldn’t make it to Sweet Apple Acres before the crowds starting gathering. All while Rainbow starts to grow more anxious and desperate to be able to at least get one mug of the good stuff before they run out.

One by one, ponies and Pride Landers such as Ma Tembo, Lani, Rafiki, Twiga, all await as they all get their mugs one by one. Whenever the tap runs out of cider, Big Macintosh brings forward another barrel to fill it up with. With many in line and many barrels biting the dust, Rainbow’s worries grow bigger and bigger with every passing minute to the point when she and Fluttershy finally get to the front of the line, they were all down to their last barrel.

But by the time Fluttershy had managed to get her pint of cider as Rainbow was kind enough to let her go first and when she deposited her bits for her mug they had already run out of cider for the today to which she nearly teared up at missing another chance to get some…again.

“Heh. Sorry, everypony! That's it for today!” Applejack apologized on behalf of the Apple Family who all awed in disappointment especially Rainbow Dash.

“Surprise, surprise. You ran out again!” Rainbow complained.

“Yeah, you always run out!” Another pony added.

“I thought you all said you’ve have plenty for everyone.” Thurston complained.

“Now hold on, everypony. We've done our best to improve supply this year-“ Applejack attempted to explain in the family’s defense.

“You always say that!” The pony that agreed with Rainbow interrupted.

“And it's always true.” Applejack added as she continued. “But Apple family cider is made with love and integrity, and only the highest quality apples in Equestria. Sorry, but that recipe takes time and if y'all just be patient, we'll have plenty more tomorrow. Just let us take note of those who didn’t get a cup today so we can assure y’all get a cup tomorrow.”

As everyone returned disgruntled exchanges expect for the Apple Family friends who feel they are all being too hard on them but before any of the gathered ponies could leave they are all drawn to their attention to a mysterious machine approaching Sweet Apple Acres.

“What in Equestria is that?” Applejack asked as everyone all gathers around as the machine pulled up to the fence while damaging it to which Granny Smith did not appreciate as the vehicle’s rider’s emerged onto the ground.

The riders are two unicorns with light yellow coats of fur, green eyes, with red and white stripped manes and tails, wearing yellow carnival hats with a singular blue strip on each of then, and blue and white striped carnival tuxedos with black bow-ties. The only difference is that one of them has a mustache.

“Well, lookie what we got here, brother of mine, it's the same in every town.

Ponies and others with thirsty throats, dry tongues, and not a drop of cider to be found

Maybe they're not aware that there's really no need for this teary despair.”

The pony without the mustache sang as he addressed a purplish-pink coated mare.

“That the key that they need to solve this sad cider shortage you and I will share.”

The other brother sang before singing together for the excited crowd before introducing themselves.

“Well you've got opportunity

In this very community.”

“He's Flim.”

“He's Flam.”

“We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers

Traveling salesponies nonpareil.”

“Nonpa-what?“

“Yeah what she said?”

Pinkie and Bunga questioned as Flim explained it to them while kissing Apple Bloom on the forehead before leaping back up to the stage.

“Nonpareil, and that's exactly the reason why, you see

No pony else in this whole place will give you such a chance to be where you need to be

And that's a new world, with tons of cider

Fresh squeezed and ready for drinking.”

“More cider than you could drink in all your days of thinking.”

Flam added as he slide down from the tube connected to the machine.

“I doubt that.” Rainbow expressed finding it hard to believe with crossed arms.

“Me too.” Fuli whispered to the others as the brothers continued singing while getting the rest of the town in on the tune too.

“So take this opportunity

In this very community

He's Flim

He's Flam

We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers

Traveling salesponies

Nonpareil.”

“I suppose by now you're wondering 'bout our peculiar mode of transport

“I say, our mode of locomotion.”

“And I suppose by now you're wondering, where is this promised cider?

“Any horse can make a claim and any pony can do the same.”

“But my brother and I have something most unique and superb

“Unseen at any time in this big new world.”

The two traded as they address a few of the ponies and Pride Landers in the crowd.

“And that's opportunity.”

“Folks, it's the one and only, the biggest and the best”

“The unbelievable”

“Unimpeachable.”

“Indispensable.”

“I-can't-believe-able.”

“Flim Flam Brothers' Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000.”

The two introduced their machine to everyone.

“What d'you say, sister?” Flam asked Rarity who sighed and fainted as Kion caught her before she could hit her head as he and Twilight look on the singing crowd really into to what these ponies have to offer while the rest of the Guard isn’t very sure whether these ponies are good news or not as Kyoga has a look that expresses she doesn’t even trust them.

“Oh, we got opportunity

In this very community

Please, Flim, please, Flam, help us out of this jam

With your Flim Flam Brothers' Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000.”

The crowd sang as Flim turned his attention to Applejack.

“Young filly, I would be ever so honored if you might see fit to let my brother and I borrow some of your delicious, and might I add spellbindingly fragrant apples for our little demonstration here?” He asked of the cowgirl.

“Uh, sure, I guess.” She reluctantly obliged to their request.

“Opportunity, in our community.”

The crowd sang as the two brothers worked their magic on their machine.

“Ready, Flim?”

“Ready, Flam?”

“Let's bing bang zam!”

“And show these thirsty ponies a world of delectable cider!”

The two traded as they worked their machine in having a tree full of apples sucked inside.

“Cider, cider, cider, cider...”

The crowd chanted.

“Watch closely, my friends!” Flim instructed everyone.

“The fun begins!” Flam added.

“Now, here's where the magic happens. Right here in this heaving, roiling, cider-press-boiling guts of the very machine, those apples plucked fresh are right now as we speak being turned into grade-A, top-notch, five-star, blow-your-horseshoes-off, one-of-a-kind cider!” Flim explained to everyone as awes at the machine that seems promising.

“Feel free to take a sneak peek!” Flam offered as Granny Smith chimed in with a rebuttal before anyone could take a peak of the machine’s inner workings.

“Now wait, you fellers, hold it!

You went and over-sold it!

I guarantee that what you have there won't compare

For the very most important ingredient

Can't be added or done expedient

And it's quality, friends, Apple Acres' quality and care!”

She sang as she reminded everyone to which they all nodded in agreement.

“Well, Granny, I'm glad you brought that up, my dear, I say I'm glad you brought that up

You see that we are very picky when it comes to cider if you'll kindly try a cup.”

Flim counter-argued while offering her the first mug to which to their credit was decent as all of the good apples passed through their quality inspection while given the green light with the bad apples singled out with an accompanying red light.

“Yes, sir, yes, ma'am, this great machine let’s just the very best

So whaddaya say then, Apples?

Care to step into the modern world

And put the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 to the test?”

Flam then sang and offered their services as the crowd minus the Guard were one hundred percent on board.

“Cider, cider, cider, cider...“

“What do you think, folks? Do you see what the Apples can't? I see it clear as day! I know she does! So does he! C'mon, Ponyville, you know what I'm talking about!” Flim asked everyone before breaking out in another verse.

“We're saying you've got

Opportunity

In this very community

He's Flim, he's Flam

We're the world famous Flim Flam Brothers

Traveling salesponies nonpareil!

Yeah!”

“You got a deal!” Apple Bloom responded as the crowd cheered in excitement. Although the matriarch of the Apple Family still had her disagreements on the whole proposal.

“Hold on there dearie. We need to discuss this.” Granny Smith cautioned the filly before pulling her aside along with the rest of her grandchildren for an important meeting.

During this the other members of the Guard huddled together to voice their opinions on the matter.

“Are you all thinking what I’m thinking?” Fuli began with a look of suspicion at the two hotshot sales ponies.

“Well…” Kion began. “From the looks of their machine, it sure seems like they can do a decent job and seem like promising partners for the business.”

“Sure looks like it.” Beshte agreed.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that.” Kyoga cautioned.

“What do you mean?” Bunga asked clearly confused. “How could they not refuse a partnership with them?”

“Probably because from the looks of them and how they just swayed the crowd with a cheesy song that they like more like con ponies rather than ponies wanting to do business with them.” Ono deduced before flying over to the group huddle where the two brothers joined in on the initial family huddle. “I think I’m going to check up to see what kind of deal they are offering.”

Using his keen sight he was able to get a good hearing and watch of the brothers offering the terms of their deal.

“We'll sweeten the deal. You supply the apples...”

“...We supply the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000.”

“Then we split those sweet, sweet, profits...”

“...Seventy-five...”

“...Twenty-five.”

They proposed as Ono shook his head with his suspicions correct before flying over to the others to tell them of this.

“Deal–“ Apple Bloom began before being cut off by Applejack to avoid cementing it.

“Hold on. Who gets the seventy five?” Applejack asked.

“Why, us, naturally.” Flim answered.

“And, we'll throw in the magic to power the machine for free.” Flam added as Applejack turned back to the family to discuss this some more.

“Cider sales keep our business afloat through the winter. We'd lose Sweet Apple Acres if we agreed to this.”

“So? What'll it be?” The two brothers asked.

“No deal.” Big Macintosh delivered the final say.

“Hmph. Very well.” Flim replied while keeping up the smile after frowning for a moment. “If you refuse our generous offer to be partners, then we'll just have to be competitors.”

“You wouldn't dare.” Applejack attempted to call their bluff.

“Oh no?” Flim returned unfazed before turning to Flam at the podium.

“Don't you worry, everypony! There'll be plenty of cider for all of you!” He announced to everyone.

“Once we drive Sweet Apple Acres out of business.” Flim quietly whispered to Applejack as she and the Apple family share a collective gasp together at this threat.

“What?” Apple Bloom exclaimed as they all have the feeling these ponies are bad news because of their drive for greed.

The next morning the second day of cider season goes underway as everyone gets in line for their next round of apple cider. Even though ponies and Pride Landers who didn’t get their mugs from yesterday were able to today, Applejack couldn’t help but still feel troubled with the Flim Flam brothers threat.

“Still worried about Flim and Flam?” Twilight asked as she, Spike, Kion, and Applejack all watch as the former three sip their apple cider.

“Granny Smith says they were just blowing hot air.” Spike pointed out.

“I'm not so sure.” Applejack voiced otherwise. “They sounded mighty serious when they threatened to run us out of business.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll have your back in case you need it.” Kion assured as they heard Apple Bloom call out to everyone in line just as the last cup of cider was poured for the day.

“That's it! Last cup!” She announced much to everyone’s disappointment. “C'mon back tomorrow, everypony!”

As the crowd complained the Flim Flam Brothers arrived with their machine driving and damaging the face again just as Granny Smith was fixing it much to her dismay.

“What seems to be the problem here?”

“Oh my, oh my, out of cider again?”

The two brothers wasted no time in asking while acting like smug smooth-talkers.

“What have we here? Who'd like a cup?” Flim offered as one of the barrels loaded from the machine with cider made from Apple Family apples while offering a mug to Rainbow Dash who seemed inclined to take it.

“Don't worry, everypony, we've got the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 to make more in an instant!” Flam added as Applejack quickly snatched the barrel away with her lasso along with knocking the mug of cider back towards her to which Rainbow grunted in slight frustration.

“You can't sell that cider! That's made from Apple family apples!” Applejack firmly said to them as she firmly held onto the cider they attempted to sell to the crowd.

“Don't worry, everypony, there are plenty of apples in Equestria.” Flim assured everyone. “We'll find some others and make more cider than all of Ponyville can drink!“

The crowd gasped in excitement as Apple Bloom spoke up to them out of impulsiveness.

“We'll make more cider than you could ever imagine!” She challenged before being whisked away by her tail courtesy of her big brother back towards the rest of her family.

“Now, it ain't about the speed, young'un, it's about quality.” Her grandmother reminded her not to let her emotions control her to which the crowd shared a disappointed sigh.

“Oh, look at these poor, dissatisfied ponies.“ Flim commented

“Ponyville is Sweet Apple Cider country!” Apple Bloom argued back as her brother gently placed her back down on the ground.

“Our cider speaks for itself!” Applejack added.

“Let's put it to the test!” Flim challenged as he casually lounged on his couch.

“Anywhere, anytime!” She competitively returned as the crowd shared shocked mutters as Granny Smith quietly intervened.

“Well, that's enough now.” She gently warned her to control herself.

“With our machine, we can make enough cider in one hour to satisfy this entire town!” Flam further boasted as Apple Bloom still can’t help it.

“We'll do it in 45 minutes!” She fired back as the crowd sounded even more impressed as Granny Smith had to step in to stop her.

“Easy, Apple Bloom, easy.” She gently warned her to get her to calm down.

“What's the matter, Granny Smith? Chicken?” Flim tauntingly asked her while still laying on his couch.

“What did you call me, sonny?” Granny Smith questioned back feeling challenged herself.

“If you're so confident in your cider, then what's the problem?” Flim responded without a change in expression.

“Tomorrow mornin', right here!” Granny Smith accepted their challenge as she got right in his face to which startled him.

“But I'm afraid we haven't any...apples.” Flam brought up while spit shining one of the apples.

“You can use our south field!” Granny Smith permitted. “It'll be worth it to teach y'all a thing or two about cider making!”

“Excellent; we have a bet.” Flim felt pleased to hear it. “Whoever produces the most barrels in one hour wins the exclusive right to sell cider in Ponyville.”

Applejack sweated nervously with widen eyes seeing how huge of a gamble this as the brothers look on eagerly grinning awaiting for her acceptance while the rest of the Guard exchanges worried looks.

“And after we beat ya, I don't never want to see you bambahoozlers around here again!” Granny Smith accepted their terms with a hoof-shake on it.

“Until tomorrow.” Flam saluted along with his brother with a tip of their hats as their machine rides away in reverse while Applejack looks greatly worried of what her family is putting on the line.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed.

“That doesn’t sound good.” Fuli commented.

“Nope!” Ono flatly commented knowing they are in for it now.

“Don't worry, Applejack, I know you'll win tomorrow!” Twilight assured the worried farm pony.

“We'd better, 'cause if we don't, we're gonna lose our farm.” Applejack expressed as she walked away while the crowd disperses leaving the Guard once again to converse this.

“What do we do now?” Fuli asked.

“Should we go over and help them?” Beshte added.

“Only if they need it.” Kion replied saying this is all they can do for now as the family converses with how they plan on tackling this. “Just hope a family of four is enough to go up against a machine powered by magic all the time.”

“Doubt it.” Kyoga voiced while acknowledging Kion’s stance on the matter even though they could afford the help.

“Considering that’s a machine powered by magic while everyone has to move around all the time, you might be right.” Twilight agreed.

The next day, everyone including the whole Guard gathered together as they prepare to watch the biggest competition in Ponyville yet to decide who makes their annual cider.

Big Macintosh was pacing in place, Granny Smith was sniffing the apples, while Applejack constantly bucks a punching bag with her little sister hanging on just as Twilight approaches the farm pony to check up on them.

“Applejack? Are you sure this is such a good idea?” She asked one more time.

“Me 'n' the family are... one hundred percent confident... in our cider making capabilities.” Applejack asserted as she repeatedly bucked the bag.

“And besides, nopony calls Granny a chicken.“ Apple Bloom added as she got bucked off the bag from Applejack’s last buck to which Twilight caught her with her magic to keep her from hitting her head again.

“Attention, everypony!” Mayor Mare announced to everyone to begin the competition with Spike by her side to watch over.

“Well, good luck.” Twilight voiced her condolences although still uneasy seeing they are not backing out of this one before returning to the others.

“Thanks, Twilight. We'll need it.” Applejack returned as the Mayor continued her announcement.

“The teams have one hour to produce as much cider as they can, after which the barrels will be counted and the winner will be named the sole cider provider for all of Ponyville!” The crowd shared a collective gasp together. “Are both teams ready?” She asked as Big Mac put on his goggles, Granny Smith snorted, and Apple Bloom puffed her hair aside.

“Ready!”

Applejack and the Flim and Flam brothers stated.

“Then let's... go!” Mayor announced as the hourglass flipped over courtesy of Spike to officially begin the competition as the Apple Family wasted no time in getting started as they all rushed to their stations.

Applejack bucks the apple trees to which Apple Bloom catches them with a bucket on her head. Once she caught all of the apples she handed it over to where Granny Smith so she can inspect and single out the bad from the good.

“Ugh, bad 'un. Good 'un! Bad 'un...” She said as she sniffs and eyes every apple closely with her glasses.

Once they passed quality control they are tossed onto a conveyor belt so they can be juiced by cider on a machine that is powered by Big Macintosh running on a treadmill before properly sealing lids on the barrels once they are filled.

“Great job, y'all! We've already filled an entire barrel!” Applejack commended everyone

“I'll bet you those guys don't even have–“ Apple Bloom started to say as she brought forward the second bucket full of apples only to stop mid-sentence when they all see their cider making machine has already produced six barrels while smugly waving to the now already stunned and on edge Apple Family as Applejack nervously gulped upon seeing how trouble they are in now. “What?!”

Apple Bloom was still stunned by this to the point she missed the apples from the trees Applejack bucked off.

“C'mon, Apple Bloom, focus!” Applejack urged her. “We gotta forget those guys if we're gonna have a chance of winnin'!”

“Sorry, sis!” She apologized as she quickly picked up the apples and sent them over to Granny Smith who already had multiple baskets lined up. “Better keep up, Granny, we're fallin' behind!”

“Egh..Good 'un...Ugh, bad 'un...” She sniffed out every apple as Big Macintosh was starting to get worn out.

“Rest when it's over, Big McIntosh! Ride! Ride!” Applejack urged to him to try to pick it more to which he does. But even then it was still starting to become too much for them to keep up with and that was enough for any of their friends to bear.

“This is just dreadful.”

“Even at top speed the Apples are only making one barrel to the twins' three!”

Rarity and Ono commented.

“At this rate they’ll be out of Sweet Apple Acres in no time at all.” Bunga added as Twilight decides to step forward to the mayor with the girls following her.

“Um, Miss Mayor! Are honorary family members allowed to help in the competition?” Twilight asked.

“Well, I'm not sure...” The mayor responded as she turned to the two competitors to make sure it is okay with them. “Flim, Flam, would you object to honorary family members helping?”

“Are you kidding?”

“We don't care if the whole kingdom of Canterlot helps. It's a lost cause.”

The two responded thinking they already have this competition won as Kion shared a smile with Fuli and Kyoga seeing they have just blindly opened the door for them.

“Hm, I guess its okay. Applejack? What do you think?” The mayor turned to Applejack who had just tiredly bucked another apple tree.

“I think I'd love to have the rest of my family helpin' out.” Applejack expressed his gratitude of having the rest of the Guard her honorary family to help her out.

“All right!” The rest of the Guard exclaimed as Flim and Flam still thinks they can’t catch up to them now.

Immediately everyone got all lined up with serious expressions as Twilight and Kion walk in front as they prepared to give everyone their instructions.

“Okay, everypony, we're not gonna let those smooth talkers take our friend's farm.” Twilight began.

“Yeah!” Everyone else exclaimed in a cheer before returning to their serious expressions as Twilight and Kion turn to Fluttershy and Beshte.

“Fluttershy, help Applejack with the trees.”

“Beshte you do the same.”

“Got it.”

“On it.”

They replied with a nod as Twilight turns to Pinkie and Bunga.

“Pinkie Pie, Bunga, you two are on apple catching detail.” Twilight said to them.

“Yessir, ma'am, sir!” The two saluted with a smile as Kion turns to Rarity and Ono.

“Rarity, Ono, since you two both got keen and discerning eyes help Granny Smith at the quality control station.” He instructed of them.

“Of course.”

“Affirmative.”

They nodded as Twilight turns to the fastest members of the Guard.

“Rainbow Dash, Fuli do you two think you can help Big Macintosh press?” She asked of them.

“Easy.” Fuli replied with a smirk in response towards a job for speed is in her favor.

“In my sleep! Rainbow returned confidently.

“Kyoga, you’re with us.” Kion said to the lioness.

“No problem.” Kyoga nodded.

“Alright, everypony…” Twilight began.

“Let's save Sweet Apple Acres!” KIon finished.

“All right!” The rest of the Guard exclaimed as they all set out to do their assigned tasks.

With Applejack and Beshte’s strength combined with Fluttershy swiftly flying back tree to tree the three were able to knock off apples quickly and cover more ground and with Pinkie and Bunga helping Apple Bloom catching the apples they were all able to do the same.

“Over there, Apple Bloom! Don't miss them!” Pinkie reported to the filly.

“Right behind you, Pinkie Pie!” Apple Bloom returned as she swiftly caught her apples.

“Coming up!” Bunga returned as he flipped over and caught a bucket of apples from the tree Beshte knocked wood on before swiftly taking the buckets to where Granny Smith, Rarity, and Ono are inspecting the apples to which they separated the bad from the good before tossing them onto the conveyor belt.

“Good 'un, bad 'un, bad 'un, good 'un...”

“Lovely, horrid, horrid, lovely...”

“Yes, no, no, yes…”

On the treadmill, Big Macintosh is currently running with ease now that Rainbow and Fuli are both there to back him up and were able to keep the machine up and running as fresh cider flows through the machine where Twilight, Kion, and Kyoga are watching and sealing every filled barrel taking turns as Twilight uses her magic to stack up the barrels.

“Based on these figures, we're making five barrels for every three of theirs!” Twilight reported to everyone as she did some quick calculations.

The crowd cheered for the Apple Family hearing they still have a chance of winning now.

“Keep it up, everypony! We're back in this!” Applejack encouraged everyone to which Flim spit out his drink in Flam’s face.

“Come on, brother, we've gotta pick up the pace!” He urged in a panic now.

“Right, uh, double the power!” Flam responded by as they both worked their magic in speeding up the machine which not only ripped off more apples but the whole trees that came with it causing all of the apples to fail quality control.

“We've gotta try something else!” Flim again urged.

“I've got it, brother of mine.” Flam quickly resolved by turning off quality control which had every bad apple green lit.

“Well done, Flam! We're at top productivity!” Flim complimented as they both high-hooved each other.

As the crowd cheered for them, Kyoga took notice of this and then slyly smiled knowing they have now really won as they as they keep grinding it out but it quickly dropped when she saw Rainbow not taking kind to this wanting to throw in the bad bunch into the mix too.

Just as Rainbow leaped off of the treadmill and started to move over to the quality control station only to be quickly tackled by Rainbow Dash.

“What are you doing?” Fuli demanded as she pressed harder on her running to keep up the pace they were placing.

“C'mon, Rainbow Dash, keep grinding!” Twilight urged her as the peagsus struggled to break free.

“We don't have time for quality control if we wanna win this thing!” Rainbow protested.

“Yes we do!” Kyoga retorted. “Otherwise we won’t win if we cheat.”

“Kyoga’s right.” Kion backed her up. “There's no point in winning if we cheat!”

“We'll just have to work harder!” Twilight encouraged her to just focus on grinding it out with Fuli and Big Macintosh. “C'mon, everypony!”

“All right then…” Rainbow relented seeing she is not going to win this agreement leading to Kyoga to release her grip on her. “Double time!” She stated with pumped guns before quickly rushing back over to run alongside the two working the treadmill.

Everyone still kept sticking to Twilight’s plan while pressing forward the best they can without rushing anything while Flim and Flam kept lounging on their couch. Neither team paid any focus to each other as they kept piling and stacking up barrels of cider all while Spike who is currently watching the hourglass can’t bear to look as the hourglass is almost empty. Then when the hourglass finally ran out of sand…

“Time's up!” The mayor announced as the whole Apple Family team all collapsed in exhaustion while the crowd cheered for them before doing a head count on the barrels of cider made.

“I'm proud of you, Applejack.” Twilight complimented as she rested on her back alongside Applejack, Kion, and Kyoga.

“Thanks.”

“Integrity like that will always be... rewarded.” Twilight added feeling they have victory cemented with all of the honest hard work and sweat they put into it.

“Flim and Flam win!” The mayor announced much to everyone but Kyoga’s shock.

“What?" The crowd quietly gasped.

“Wh, wh–“

“We... lost?”

Apple Bloom and Applejack followed suit feeling very saddened by the outcome.

“Daww, too bad, Apples.” Flim commented while rubbing their victory in their faces.

“Guess you'll just have to find a new line of work that doesn't match your names quite so... perfectly.” Flam added.

“Now should we tear down all these tacky old buildings and put up new ones, brother?” Flim asked gesturing to the land while angering the Apple Family as Apple Bloom is driven to near tears.

“I don't see why not, brother. After all, this isn't Sweet Apple Acres anymore. How about 'Flim Flam Fields'?” Flam agreed while pulling down a banner with their heads on it over their selling stand.

“I ought to press you into jerk cider!” Rainbow furiously exclaimed as she prepared to fly over and give them what for until being stopped by Kyoga grabbing onto her tail with a single paw who motioned against doing so.

“No, Rainbow Dash. A deal's a deal.” Applejack asserted as the Flim Flam brothers still laughed at the family. “Congratulations to y'all. The cider business in Ponyville... is yours.” She said to them gracefully. “C'mon, Apples. Let's go pack up our things.” She led the family away to do so as the crowd watching all feels sorry for them while feeling bad for putting so much ungrateful pressure on them.

“Fear not, everypony, there's more than enough cider to go around.” Flim assured while laughing at the defeated family in a very obnoxious manner.

“Go ahead, everypony. Go on, y'all. It's okay.” Applejack told the crowd with small tears forming in her eyes as Pinkie Pie and Bunga are both left crying with Rainbow and Beshte’s comfort as Twilight hangs her head while shedding a few tears herself too while the rest of the Guard is left accepting what happened with Kyoga the only one smiling.

“And what are you smiling about?” Kion asked.

“Just watch.” She simply replied as she turned their attention to the two ready o start selling cider. “Because I have a pretty good feeling of who really won this competition.”

“Drink up, Ponyville! Down the hatch!” Flam offered mugs of cider to which the ponies reluctantly accepted…at least until they spit their cider out upon getting a good sip of their stuff back in the Flim Flam brother’s faces.

“I can't get the taste off my tongue!

“Mine's got rocks in it!”

“I wouldn't pay one cent for this dreck!”

The three who tasted the spoiled cider complained as it did had twigs, dirt, rocks in it.

“You wouldn't pay even one cent?” Flam asked in surprise.

“No!” The crowd stated as the two mumbled to each other while Kyoga smiles as she gestures everyone to what is happening.

“How about two cups for one cent?” Flam offered.

“No!” They repeated to which the two mumbled to each other again.

“Two bits for a barrel?” The brothers again proposed.

“NO!” They repeated louder.

“It looks like we've encountered a slight... problem here in Ponyville.” Flam voiced seeing they are not getting any profit out of this.

“Nopony wants our product.” Flim voiced seeing their minds have been made as they still put up smiles and tip their hats to save face to no avail. “Next town?”

“Next town. Let's go, Flim!”

“Let's go, Flam!”

The two then raced off to their machine and then proceeded to drive off… but not before seeing a barrel of their spoiled drink splash on top of them courtesy of Kyoga.

“Guess you all should have sticked to quality control after all.” Kyoga said to them with in an “I told you so.” manner as Applejack smiled seeing what this means for their business along with Kion doing the same to Kyoga who knew this would happen.

“They're gone.” Applejack voiced in delight.

“That means Sweet Apple Acres is still in business!” Twilight added just as happy for them as she approached her.

“Plus we can have high quality Apple family cider!” One of the ponies stated feeling more grateful towards the Apple family more than ever.

“Because of this silly competition, we've made enough of our cider for the whole town!” Apple Bloom added as the whole crowd cheered for them.

As everyone including Rainbow Dash all got their own mugs of cider to enjoy to celebrate the fact that fresh and well quality apple cider produced from the Apple Family is here to stay for years to come. During this time Applejack managed to write her letter for the princess.

“Dear Princess Celestia,

I wanted to share my thoughts with you. I didn't learn anythin'! Ha! I was right all along! If you take your time to do things the right way, your work will speak for itself. Sure I could tell you I learned something about how my friends are always there to help me, and I can count on them no matter what, but truth is, I knew that already too.”

“Finally some great tasting apple cider I’ve been dying for!” Rainbow exclaimed as they hear some slurping from nearby.

“What are you talking about?” Thurston asked as everyone turned to see him drinking the spoiled cider Flim and Flam left behind. “This stuff’s great. Just remove the rocks and this stuff is drinkable.”

The crowd just looked on disturbed before quickly turning their attention back to the Apple Family as they cheered for their victory before resuming sales from the apple cider produced from the competition with Applejack lifting her mug to get everyone to share a victorious toast together before drinking up all together.

Author's Note

In this episode it's cider season in Ponyville as everyone is very eager to get a cup of their delicious drink especially Rainbow Dash as the Flim Flam brothers come in take advantage of the disgruntled crowd wanting cider which leads to their competition as they put their special machine to the test.

Not much needed to be say other that the Apple Family did have the Guard for back up and because the Flim Flam brothers forgoed quality control they won the competition with everyone celebrating with freshly made cider for a job well done.

Next up is "The Lost Gorillas." where the Guard helps a pair of gorilla brothers back to their home in the snowy mountains.

Episode 39: Canterlot Wedding Part One

Episode 39:

Canterlot Wedding Part One

On a bright sunny day in the park, the Lion and Pony Guard all got together for a picnic where everyone was enjoying their sandwiches and cake.

“It is gorgeous out. Just gorgeous!” Rarity remarked at the beautiful weather as she wore her wonderful light yellow sunhat and pink ascot.

Just before Twilight could take a bite into her apple she is suddenly met with Spike arriving at the scene.

“Twi... light!” Spike spoke to her in between breaths. “...I... have... Lemme just...” He said with a raised finger as the others look on in concern as he takes a deep breath and belches out a letter from the Princess.

“Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about the upcoming wedding in Canterlot.” She suddenly stopped as she turned to address the others. “Wedding?” She expressed confusion before continuing with a shrug. “I along with King Simba will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy and Ono, I would like you two and your songbird choir to provide the music.”

“Hapana!” Ono said in delight.

“Oh my goodness! What an honor!” Fluttershy also exclaimed albeit a little more softly.

“Pinkie Pie, Bunga I can think of no one more qualified other than you two to host the reception.”

“Hip, hip, hooray!” Pinkie Pie happily cheered as she and Bunga perform front flips up to in front of Twilight and Spike while leaving dents in the cake along with spilling the tea pot.

“High five!” Bunga also cheered as they shared a high five together.

“Applejack, Beshte, you two will be in charge of the catering for the reception.” Twilight continued as she quickly fixed up the little mess they made.

“Poa!”

“Well, color me pleased as punch!” Applejack expressed rather pleased along with her hippo friend while Fuli rolls her eyes as Rainbow looks on rather bored.

“Rainbow Dash…” Twilight then continued as she yawned. “…I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a sonic rainboom as the bride and groom complete their "I do"'s.”

“Yes!” Rainbow then cheered with immediate interest.

“That sure got your attention!” Fuli commented rather amused.

“Fuli, you will be responsible for coaching Rainbow Dash to make sure the routine goes smoothly.”

“All right.” Fuli accepted it no problem.

“Rarity, you will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids.” Twilight continued as Rarity was left very stunned at this royal honor.

“Princess Celestia wants me to…” Rarity spoke as she trailed off as she moved to faint as Fluttershy tried to catch her before she could fall over “...wedding dress? For a Canterlot wedding... I, ah, ooh, oooh!”

She then fell over the opposite of where she expected her to fall with a wide grin.

“Aw, geez.” Kyoga just rolled his eyes and face-pawed herself. “Not again.”

“And as for you, Twilight, Kion, and Kyoga you three will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. See you all very soon. Yours, Princess Celestia.” She finished reading the letter as she flipped and looked around the sole parchment paper for more left out information. “But... I don't understand. Who's getting married?” She wondered as Spike remembered something as he presented another letter.

“Oh, wait! Uh, I was probably supposed to give you this one first.” He said apologetically as she read the other paper as the other’s gather around her from behind wanting to find out who exactly is getting married.

“Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and...” She then gasped in shock. “My brother?!”

Needless to say this completely stunned Twilight to the point she is left frozen in shock trying to understand what she has just processed.

“Your brother's getting married?” Applejack asked as she walked over to the still stunned unicorn and picked up her hoof with both of her own hooves to shake it. “Congratulations, Twilight! That's great news!”

“Yeah, great news.” Twilight returned rather annoyed and sarcastically as she walked off. “That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor.”

“Twilight…” Beshte asked seeing that Twilight is not happy about hearing this.

“I mean, really, he couldn't tell me personally?” She further went on as she picked up a sandwich to use as a puppet to mimic her brother. “Hey, Twilight, just thought you should know I'm making a really big decision that changes everything. Oh, never mind, you'll hear about it when you get the invitation.” She said in a deeper tone to which worried the others before continuing in her normal voice. “Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?” She added as she fake smiled at the mention of the bride. “Who in the hoof is that?!” She then exclaimed as she snorted angrily.

“Talk about a big expression.” Bunga whispered to Pinkie who had nothing to say about it.

“Um, Twilight? Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked as she held out a hoof to her.

“Sorry,” She apologized as she walked away. “It's just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close. He's my B.B.B.F.F!” The others returned questioning looks. “Big Brother Best Friend Forever?” She added rather annoyed as she turned back to explain it better to them.

”Ohhh!”

“Before I came here and learned the importance of friendship, Shining Armor was the only pony I ever really accepted as a friend.” She further explained as a bird flew onto her hoof. She nuzzled it compassionately before letting it fly away as she began walking ahead while singing to a rather somber tone.

“When I was just a filly, I found it rather silly

To see how many other ponies I could meet

I had my books to read, didn't know that I would ever need

Other ponies to make my life complete.”

She sang as she recalled the memory of her when she was a filly solely focused on reading her book while bypassing the many fillies playing around her as she walks down the street

“But there was one colt that I cared for

I knew he would be there for me.”

She sang as her young self bumped into a pony in front of her while she was preoccupied with her reading. A unicorn with a bright white coat and a blue mane with some brighter shades of blue streaks in it with matching blue eyes who’s serious frown turned into a warm smile. Young Twilight eagerly returned as she dropped her book as she happily galloped around her before he brought her in for an affectionate hair brush before they shared an embrace together.

“My big brother, best friend forever!

Like two peas in a pod, we did everything together

He taught me how to fly a kite (Best friend forever!)

We never had a single fight (We did everything together!)

We shared our hopes, we shared our dreams

I miss him more than I realized

It seems...”

She sang as she recalled her brother teaching her how to fly a kite, along with evenly splitting an apple in half, along with encouraging that she can master basic levitation when she struggled to pick up a book, along with her being by her brother’s side when saluting along with the royal guards during early training, and the sad memory of Twilight waving goodbye to her brother as she is sent to Ponyville to which Twilight in the present teared up upon the memories.

“Your big brother, best friend forever

Like two peas in a pod, you did everything together.”

The other girls sang along as Twilight looks on at the Canterlot Castle as the others shared concerned looks for her.

“And though he's, oh, so far away

I hoped that he would stay

My big brother best friend

Forever...

Forever...”

She then concluded her song as she stared into the sky before lowering her head towards the ground as she teared up again.

“Hevi Kabisa.” Kion just said rather stunned hearing this surprising revelation upon learning that she too has an older sibling and how long they have been away from each other. “I’m really sorry to hear that.” He said as he approached her and gave her a comforting hug as Applejack also shared some words of comfort as well.

“As one of your P.F.F.'s...Pony Friends Forever...” Applejack began as she had to clarify as everyone shared the same questioning looks at hearing the abbreviation.

“Ohhh!”

“...I wanna tell you that I think your brother sounds like a real good guy.” She then finished as Twilight walks off ahead still feeling rather blue back to the picnic setting towards her slice of cake.

“He is pretty special. I mean, they don't let just anypony be captain of the Royal Guard.“

“So let me get this straight.” Rarity asked with sparked interest upon hearing that. “We're helping out with the wedding of not only a princess, but a captain of the Royal Guard?”

“I guess we are.” Twilight replied still sadly and yet annoyed as Rarity dramatically passed out again to which Twilight levitated a pillow towards where she landed her head just as she passed out with a wide grin as the ponies all express excitement over this upcoming wedding while the Lion Guard could only wonder how to make Twilight being a pony who’s had a great relationship with her brother yet have grown so apart and distant throughout the years.

A scene which was closely observed by Scar’s magic as he raised a paw up to pull the image of the current events.

“Must be so disappointing, isn’t it.” Scar commented at the sight. “For you see I’ve been down that path too and suffice to say it didn’t go out very well but ultimately it ended up doing what was best for me.” He added as he pulled an image of her brother currently working his spell around the Canterlot Castle. “And pretty soon you’ll see why.”

As soon as Scar was done spying on Twilight, Zira and her pride approached him from behind as he turned to face them.

“Everything ready?” Scar asked of them.

“All according to plan, Scar.” Zira returned with a sinister smile.

“Good.” Scar said as he made towards the Canterlot Castle on the horizon. “Have your fellow lioness remain in position just outside of that castle. You all know what to do?”

“And do it we will!” Zira vowed as she viciously bared her claws and swung them to slash a dead tree from nearby to which Nuka barely dodged to which frightened him upon seeing that display as he looked up to where her claws made contact with the branch.

“Yikes!” He exclaimed upon seeing the claw marks on the tree.

“Pretty soon, a day that was meant to bring joy in beloved new weds turns tragedy thanks to tragedy befalling upon everyone. A very unfortunate tragedy that will bring disappointment and chaos to pave way for the rightful ruler to take her place as the one true king.” He then sinisterly vowed as he chuckled evilly before teleporting away in a flash.

Shortly after receiving the letter, the group all made their way to the train station where everyone in the Guard all boards on the ride over to Canterlot so they can all get started on the wedding preparations.

“A sonic rainboom? At a wedding?! Can you say "best wedding ever"?!” Rainbow exclaimed in excitement at the task she was given.

“Best wedding ever!” Pinkie screamed in joy as they ride went through the dark tunnel the train traveled through.

“So you all get to help with the big fancy wedding…” Spike then said with Rarity and Fluttershy nearby him. “…But I'm the one who gets to host the bachelor party! I have just one question. What's a bachelor party?” He then asked to which everyone expect for the young members of the Lion Guard laughed as they too don’t know what it is aside from Ono who flies over to explain it to him.

“A party given for the groom which is by common knowledge a party for colts, stallions, and all known guy friends he would like at this particular party.”

“Oh!” Spike realized as he laughed himself. “Looks like I’ll need to get an idea of what the groom likes himself.”

“Shouldn’t be a problem since the groom is Twilight’s own brother.” Bunga replied as he turned to the unicorn’s direction. “Right,Twilight?”

Twilight however was not paying attention to their conversation as she was zoned out while facing her window up at the front of their cart opposite and away from her friends to which both Kion and Applejack took notice of as they both walk over to check up on her.

“Why the long face, sugarcube?” Applejack asked.

“I'm just thinking about Shining Armor.” Twilight replied as she crossed her forearms and rested her head on them still not making eye contact with them still staring in her window. “Ever since I moved to Ponyville, we've been seeing each other less and less. And now that he's starting a new family with this "Princess Mi Amore Ca-whatshername", we'll probably never see each other.”

“Come on, now. You're his sister. He'll always make time for you.” Applejack attempted to assure her as she still refused to make eye contact.

“Couldn't seem to make time to tell me he was getting married.” Twilight responded still not feeling any better as she angrily pulled down her window shade.

“I’m sure he didn’t mean to.” Kion tried to say to make her feel better. “Maybe he just got a little pre-occupied with his job since he is the Captain of the Royal Guard.” He suggested.

“If so, he better have a good explanation for that.” Twilight bitterly remarked still not paying any attention to them to which Kyoga was all ears and eyes seeing of how upset Twilight is feeling right now. Once so close, have been becoming farther and farther apart potentially failing with the lack of communication and love they once had she feels.

“We're here, we're here!” Pinkie excitably announced as their ride arrived at the castle borderlines which had two guards with spears standing in front of a large pink dome covering the entire area whom both lift them as the train passes through.

Everyone was surprised as they all passed through the magical dome and as much as the many guards at every known post all around the castle.

“Whoa, what's with all the guards?” Rainbow asked as their ride arrived at their stop which had multiple guards at every spot.

“I'm sure they're just taking the necessary precautions.” Rarity reasoned. “Royal weddings do bring out the strangest ponies.”

“And most likely potential threats trying to take over a kingdom with an attack.” Kyoga agreed as Pinkie let loose a sneeze of confetti to which she raised a paw with a small shield of magic to block the sneeze as she then happily walked off.

“All right everyone knows what to do?” Kion asked everyone before going their separate ways.

“Yep!”

“Affirmative!”

“Oh yeah!”

“You bet!”

Beshte, Ono, Rainbow Dash, and Fuli all answered as Rarity wasted no time in wanting to see to it that the preparations are already started.

“Now, let's get going! We've got work to do!”

“And you've got a big brother to go congratulate.” Applejack added to Twilight as she is the last pony to leave the train cart.

“Yeah. Congratulate. And then give him a piece of my mind.” Twilight answered still irritated as she walks off ahead to do so as she walked off ahead while ignoring the smiling guards lifting their spears so she can pass as she is fully focused on really letting him have it to which the others expressed silent confusion and concern.

“Talk about a grudge for her B.B.B.F.F.” Bunga commented.

“And that’s saying something if she is that ticked.” Fuli added.

“And that’s putting it mildly.” Ono agreed.

“You can’t really blame her for being upset. She did find out about at the last minute.” Beshte responded thinking they shouldn’t be too hard on her.

“And this was from someone close to her before meeting all of us.” Kion added in an understanding tone.

“Makes sense to me.” Kyoga replied as she followed after her. “I’m going to go follow her.”

“I’ll come too.” Kion said as he called out to the unicorn marching ahead. “Twilight! Wait for us!”

On one of the tall towers was Princess Celestia keeping watch through a telescope on the watch tower as if they are expecting and looking out for someone dangerous on the horizon. To which Scar was smart enough to keep his followers well-hidden from detection.

At the castle’s western border walls was King Simba as he was suited in red armor with a yellow gold badge on his breast plate with a matching yellow helmet with a red buzz cut like appearance on top of it as he leads a group of guards for a patrol and scout on the castle borders.

At the castle’s eastern border walls was another group of guards all following orders from a muscular stallion with a white fur coat and a blue mane. Twilight’s brother, Shining Armor, who like the lion king is wearing purple and gold armor for protection while on patrol too.

Just as Shining Armor directs a couple of peagsus guards to scout the skies he and the other guards were greeted by the sound of Twilight’s voice.

“I've got something to say to you, mister.” She sternly said to her brother as she approached to his post to which the guards held their spears ready to use against her if needed as Kion and Kyoga follow after her.

“Twily!” Shining happily greeted his little sister as he took off his helmet as the guards stood down upon seeing who is really approaching them or more specifically Shining Armor. “Ah, I've missed, you, kid. How was the train ride? I–“ He added as he placed a hoof on her cheek to which she quickly retracted as she wasted no time in chewing him out.

“How dare you not tell me in person that you were getting married I'm your sister, for pony's sake!”

“It's not my fault! Princess Celestia has requested a major increase in security.” He insisted innocently as she looked aside still glaring at her brother. “Didn't you see all the guards at the train station?”

“Yeah, there's a big wedding coming up. Maybe you heard about it?” She returned as she walked ahead to the near puddle of water while still not even looking at him while Kion and Kyoga are left unsure if they should say something or not.

“It has nothing to do with the wedding. A threat has been made against Canterlot.” He explained as he again approached her and got her to look at him. “We don't know who's responsible for it, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection.” He added as he looked upon the horizon before lifting his sister’s head up to get her full attention. “This, you need to see.”

The elder sibling backed up as he fully concentrated his horn which produced a bright violet red glow similarly to his sister’s magic aura to which the three all shielded their eyes as he sends magic up towards the dome surrounding the castle to strengthen the force field’s barrier. Once he was done casting the spell he dizzily shook his head as he developed a small headache from doing so and apparently for quite a while.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“Amazing!”

“He certainly is her brother all right.”

“No question about that.”

The two remarked upon seeing this magnificent display of magic.

“The burden of keeping Canterlot safe and secure rests squarely on my shoulders. Staying focused on the task at hand has been my top priority.” He further explained apologetically as they walked together side by side as Kion and Kyoga do the same while following the two until they all stopped at the bridge in between the nearby two towers overseeing the many soldiers on patrol.

“Okay, okay, I get it. You've got a really important job protecting all of Canterlot with a force field only you can conjure up.” Twilight returned more understanding of his reasons. “But still... how could you not tell me about something as big as your wedding? Am I not that important to you anymore?” She still asked while still hurt from hearing this at the last minute with lowered ears.

“Hey. You're my little sister. Of course you're important to me.” He assured despite the time they have seeing each other less throughout the years. “But I'd understand if you didn't want to be my best mare now.” He added with a small smile.

“You want me to be your best mare?” She asked feeling very enlightened by this offer as she smiles for the first time in their conversation.

“Well... yeah.”

“I'd be honored!” She replied with a bow as both lions smile at seeing that everything is all good now as her brother approached her and hugged her until she broke apart from it with her anger resurfacing again. “But I'm still pretty ticked you're marrying somepony I don't even know! When did you even meet this "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza"?”

“Twily, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is Cadance, your old foalsitter.” Her brother gently replied and clarified.

“Cadance? As in the Cadance?” Twilight’s anger turned into delight and excitement. “As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters?!”

“You tell me. She was your foalsitter.” Shining returned with a chuckle as she turned towards the sky.

“Ohmygoshohmygosh!” Twilight began to ramble as she recalled the memories of her when she was young from greeting her with a hug upon arriving, to bandaging up her wound when she fell off of her scooter while wiping away the forming tears, and pushing her on the swing set. “Cadance is only the most amazing pony ever! She's beautiful, she's caring, she's kind...”

“I am so lucky to have you as my foalsitter!” Young Twilight happily expressed.

“I'm the one who's lucky, Twilight.” Young Cadance returned.

“You're a princess.” Twilight returned as her foalsitter rolled her eyes. “I'm just a regular old unicorn.”

“You are anything but a regular old unicorn.” Cadance assured as she removed her from the swing set so they can do something special they share together. A special hoofshake where they trot in place, lay down on the ground with covered eyes before locking eyes and clapping hooves together, followed by shaking their flanks together

“Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!“ The two chanted before landing on their backs to share a good laugh together.

As the two were later walking through the streets in Canterlot, they came across an arguing couple.

“I am going for a hooficure and that is that!” The mare stated.

“You are not going–“ Her husband argued back.

“I am! I am!”

“I've already paid for three this month!”

“I... no! My girlfriends are all getting their hooves done! And you said that onl–“

“Please, we've done this at least–“

As Twilight grew worried for them, Cadance nonchalantly works her magic in forming two halves of a heart together with her horn glowing blue as the two halves come together. Suddenly they forgot why they even argued.

“Oh! Ho, ho, ho.”

“Oh, sweetie. You just did that face.”

“How many unicorns can just spread love wherever they go? I only know of one!” Twilight then recalled. “And you're marrying her! You're marrying Cadance! You're marrying Cadance!” She then excitedly bounced around before nearly bumping into Kion and Kyoga. “Whoa! Excuse me!” She greeted them with a giggle. “Almost didn’t see you both there.”

“That’s all right.” Kion returned with a friendly smile before turning to the colt she was talking to. “So this is your brother?”

“Yep.” Twilight replied while gesturing her friends and brother so she can introduce them. “Shining Armor, this is Kion, and this Kyoga.”

“Hi!”

“How’s it going?”

The two greeted as the former waved while the latter replied with a more casual tone and matter.

“Nice to meet you both!” The white unicorn greeted them before turning to the lion cub. “And I understand that you are the Guard’s fiercest and leader of the Lion Guard.”

“That’s me.” He answered with a smile.

“I gotta tell you kid, it is really great to finally meet you.” Shining Armor expressed very pleased. “I have heard great things about you along with you and Twilight’s friend Kyoga along with your special roar and her magic.”

“Well, it’s all in a day’s work.” Kyoga humbly shrugged as she thought nothing of it. “It’s all part of keeping balance in the Circle of Life.”

“Considering you have only three legs, that sure is quite feat.” Shining complimented.

“So is being Captain of the Royal Guard.” Kion returned. “I mean you got hundreds of guards under your command. I’m just a regular lion cub leading a crew of capable friends in protecting Ponyville and the Pride Lands.”

“Oh, don’t be silly, Kion.” Shining returned with an affectionate brotherly gesture by placing a hoof on his mane. “You are more than that. You are anything but a regular young lion cub. You along with my little sister are both leaders of the Guard that protect all of the Equestria and the Pride Lands.”

Kion smiled hearing that as well as having the pleasant feel from that kind of brotherly affection as he never expected such high praise before.

“I hope I'm not interrupting anything important.” A pink coated alicorn voiced as she appeared in a rude tone.

She had a long multi-colored mane like Celestia’s yet not flowing on its own accord, had gold slippers on her hooves, a matching-colored tiara and necklace, purple eyes, and a crystal heart cutie mark on her flank.

“Cadance!” Twilight happily greeted as she moved to perform their signature greeting with the following movements. “Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!”

“What are you doing?” She asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Awkward.” Kyoga muttered under her breath.

“Cadance, it's me, Twilight!” Twilight responded while still sporting a smile to remind her as Kyoga felt some strange vibes around the mare.

“Uh-huh.” She returned with a rather uninterested expression as she just walks by ignoring her while embracing her brother as he wraps a hoof over her shoulder.

“I've gotta get back to my station…” He told Twilight. “…but Cadance will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going. I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn't be more excited to have you here. Right, dear?”

“Absolutely.” She returned with an evil looking smile directed at the three to which left Twilight and Kyoga taken aback seeing this while Kion was unsure of what to make of it.

“Well, we'll let you get to it.” Shining Armor said before he and Cadance walk away together.

“Well, I guess we better check up on the others too.” Kion then stated of what they need to do.

“Let’s.” Twilight agreed as they all walk in the opposite direction together to do so. “Is it me or was there something off about her?” She asked the others.

“I wish I knew.” Kion could only reply.

“No, I notice and feel it too.” Kyoga said as she wondered. “But I can’t put my claw on exactly what it is.”

As the three walk back inside the castle, Scar secretly monitors with his magic from inside one of the underground caves to witness the scene as he smiles to see that everything is going according to plan.

The three then make their way to the kitchen where Applejack and Beshte are both at work there as they have donned chef hats as the latter made sure the wedding cake and the ladder are in place for Applejack to put the finishing touches while the three watch their progress.

Kion looked impressed, Kyoga found it decent progress, Twilight was the only sitting while frowning with crossed forearms and levitating a notepad and pen in her magic.

“Cake, check.” Applejack stated as Twilight checked it off with her angered expression still remaining as Beshte moved to make the finishing touches on the ice sculpture while Applejack hold it steady.

“Ice sculpture, check.” Beshte stated as Twilight checked it off again with the same expression as Applejack moved to remove some baked goods from the oven.

”Best darn bite-size apple fritter you ever tasted...” Applejack then placed three of them in their three friend’s mouths who were all amazed with how great they tasted as even Twilight’s mood changed upon tasting them.

“Mmm. Check.”

“Impressive.”

“Well done.”

The three complimented.

“Thanks.” The hippo smiled as they were all then drawn to their attention to Spike playing with the cake figures of Shining Armor and Cadance.

“I do. Do you? I do!” He mimicked the two’s voiced while making kissing noises to which Twilight quickly confiscated them.

“Aren’t you a little too old for that?” Kyoga asked.

“A little.” He admitted with a nervous chuckle just as Cadance came inside to check up on the preparations with every pony in the room sans the main cast bowing to her.

“Hiya, Princess!”

“What’s up?”

The Guard’s strongest greeted.

“Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” Cadance insisted with a bored expression as Twilight’s anger as she and Kyoga suddenly frowned upon seeing her along with her attitude again.

“Oops. Sorry our bad.” Beshte apologized.

“Hiya, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.” Applejack greeted as pleased. “You come to check out what's on the menu for your big day?”

“I have!” She answered with a brief smile that is attempting to be friendly to which neither Twilight nor Kyoga buy the act for one second as they lock eyes on the frowning alicorn’s direction as she picked up one of the apple fritters for sampling with her magic.

As she munched on it, Kyoga and Twilight both noticed that the magic aura on her horn is green rather than crystal blue Twilight’s remembers which definitely increased their suspicions that something is very wrong here.

“Delicious! I love-love-love them.“ She returned with a somewhat forced laugh as the two don’t budge an inch compared to Kion who is in between wondering why her closet friends are frowning upon her while trying to understand the strange magic she was using.

“Aw, shucks.” Applejack replied feeling flattered.

“Thanks.” Beshte replied happily.

“Why don't you take a few to go?” Applejack then offered a bag full of them to which she after a split second of reluctance accepted. “I know how you brides can be. So busy, you forget to get a little somethin' in your belly.”

Once the alicorn made it to the door she quickly tossed it in the trash when the two chefs were paying attention to her leaving before shutting the doors after her.

“Did... you see what she...” Twilight began before they quickly turned their attention to the nearby black smoke from one of the ovens.

“Whoa nelly!” Applejack exclaimed as she ran off ahead to deal with it personally.

“Sorry, Twilight. Gotta help Applejack take care of this. Is it that okay?” Beshte kindly told them before joining the cowgirl in assisting her as Twilight groaned before relenting and moving on to the next item of business.

As the three make their way over to check up on Rarity and Ono, Kyoga heard a faint voice as if it sounded like Cadance’s from down below. And much like Twilight she is beginning to see that buried evil is in works here not helped by the green glow of the pony’s horn that came inside and faced them.

“Oh, you should have seen how she acted back there. I don't know when she changed, but she changed!” She addressed her issue to the two busy at work while mocking the bride’s rude tone. “"Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza."”

“Did I hear someone say my name?” Said mare arrived with the bridesmaids following her to which Rarity and Ono quickly faced them.

“Your highness! Let me just start by saying what an honor it is to play a role in such a momentous occasion.” Rarity began as she and Ono bowed before her.

“A very, very, great honor.” Ono added for emphasis.

“Uh-huh.” She returned unenthusiastically as she walked to the side. “Is my dress ready?”

“Yes, of course.” Ono stammered a little as she and Ono walk and fly alongside her their work a white and gold dress with blue ribbons and a blue gemstone on top along with a pink and blue hairpiece on the mannequin.

“We've been working on it ever since I was given the assignment, and I think you'll be pleased with the results! Mmm!” Rarity told her to which the three watching from the side of the room personally felt they were great seeing they captured what she would like very well as always even when Twilight and Kyoga were still frowning upon the alicorn.

“I was hoping for something with more beading and a longer train.” Cadance responded in a rather condescending manner as she turns and walks away.

“Oh, yes, of course.” Ono replied as Rarity jotted it down in her notes just going with what she wants.

“And those should be a different color.” Cadance added while turning to the bridesmaids dresses.

“I think they're lovely.”

“Me too!”

“I love them.”

The bridesmaids all voiced input on the matter as the princess shot them glares at them to stop to which they looked aside upon getting the non-verbal message.

“Make them a different color.” Cadance still demanded.

“Gee, maybe her name should be "Princess Demandy-pants." Twilight expressed before moving on to the next item of business.

“Maybe.” Kyoga agreed as Kion briefly stuck around to talk to the two at work.

“Honestly, I thought what you both came with is great the way it is.” Kion told them.

“I know.” Ono acknowledged. “But I guess what she says goes, huh?”

“Yeah.” Kion sighed. “I’ll catch you both later, okay…”

“Okay…” Ono waved as Kion moved to regroup with the others as Kyoga heard the distant and faint cries of help from down below.

Next up was checking up on Pinkie and Bunga although in secret as Twilight wanted to observe the princess unnoticed.

“Okay, let me see. We've been over the games...” Pinkie went over while hopping around as Bunga went over one of the set-up game boards and rolled the dice “...the dances...” She added as she and Bunga did the chicken dance with similar music to when the former used it to take care of the parasprite problem a while back.

“I think this reception is gonna be perfect! Don't you?” Bunga asked as she and Pinkie eagerly voiced while hopping up and down.

“Perfect!” Cadance began with a forced smile before walking off with an irritated expression. “...If we were celebrating a six-year-old's birthday party.”

“Thank you!” The two returned as both Twilight and Kyoga still shot irritated frowns at her before they pull Kion along so they can continue their observations of the princess.

Later that night, Princess Luna flew over to the observatory tower so she can take over the night shift of watching over the castle borderlines.

“Rest, my sister. As always, I will guard the night.” She told her sister as she turned and walked away leaving Luna eyeing the telescope on watch for whatever threat is around, unaware the Zira and her pride have used this spit-second opportunity to sneak towards the nearby caves undetected.

Elsewhere, Twilight, Kion, and Kyoga were able to meet up with the others after a hard day of preparation work for drinks at a nearby open table at a bar.

“Bet I can guess what you're all thinking.” Twilight expressed as she joined her friends at the table in a cheerful manner.

“What?” Bunga asked.

“Cadance is the absolute worst bride-to-be ever.” She answered with a frown as she placed her drink in a little hard for emphasis to which left many questioning eyes directed at her for saying that.

Well expect for Spike as he tried to take the moment to place with the figurines again.

“Who, me?” He said in a high-pitched voice.

“Spike!” Applejack exclaimed. “That goes on the cake.”

Spike laughed nervously as he placed the figurine on the table.

“Seriously? How old are you?” Fuli asked rather disturbed by him playing with dolls.

“Um…around ten.” He honestly answered as his face slightly blushes red. “It takes more than a few years for dragons to grow out of that phase.”

“Oh…” She replied now feeling a little awkward as she should have expected that. “…never mind.”

“Twilight, whatever are you talking about?” Rarity asked as Twilight sipped her drink. “Cadance is an absolute gem!”

“Rarity, she was so demanding!” She pointed out as she pushed aside her drink.

“Well, of course she is! Why shouldn't she expect the very best on her wedding day?” Rarity replied taking no offense to it as Twilight placed a slightly exasperated hoof on her forehead.

“Applejack, did you know that after she told you how much she just 'love-love-loved' your hors d'eouvres, she threw them in the trash?” Twilight then asked Applejack as she recalled that memory.

“Aw, she was probably just trying to spare my feelin's.” Applejack responded in the same manner as Rarity before taking another sip of her drink.

“No, she was just being fake and totally insincere!” Twilight asserted otherwise

“She did raise her voice at one of my birds during rehearsal.” Fluttershy brought up.

“See? Rude!” Twilight pointed out while smiling with crossed arms.

“But he was singing really off-key.” Fluttershy then added as she brought up said bird who did sing out of tune as Twilight covered her ears before turning to Pinkie.

“Pinkie Pie, you had to have noticed how Cadance treated–“

But she along with Bunga are too busy playing with the figurines to even pay attention to a word she said.

“Never mind.” She said with rolled eyes. “Rainbow Dash, you're with me, right?” She turned to the blue peagsus for help here.

“Sorry, Twi.” She responded more focused on rubbing her muscles and stretching her wings. “Been too busy prepping for my sonic rainboom to pay much attention to the bride's bad attitude.”

Twilight growled in increased agitation that her friends are dismissing her concerns again after sipping from her drink.

“Kion, you and Kyoga were with me. Please tell me I’m not the only one making this up.” She turned to them to back her up here.

“You’re not and I believe you every word.” Kyoga supported her claims to which Twilight smiled upon hearing that. “And considering that she is supposed to be the Princess of Love something sure is off here.”

“I don’t know…” Kion voiced otherwise as Twilight shot him a questioning look. “I mean don’t agree with what she has said and done but what else can you do?”

Twilight returned a rather hurt look as Kyoga once again looked at him rather perplexed that Kion is saying that even though he was there too.

“The princess is about to get married. I'm sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves.” Rarity tried to reason with her with a hoof on her shoulder.

This only further infuriated the unicorn as she slammed her hoof on the table nearly spilling her drink in the process.

“And I'm sure it's the result of being an awful pony who doesn't deserve to even know Shining Armor, let alone marry him!” She fired back.

Before anyone from the Lion Guard could voice their thoughts on the matter to try to calm her down Applejack spoke up.

“Think maybe you're bein' just a tiny bit possessive of your brother?” Applejack suggested with the rest of the ponies replying in agreement.

“Uh-huh.”

Needless to say, this did not improve the situation whatsoever as it only succeeded on further angering Twilight more so than ever.

“I am not being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadance! You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!” She responded angrily as she slammed her hooves on the table causing everyone’s drinks to spill all over the table before storming off.

“Twilight come back…” Beshte tried to call out to her as she refused to listen to another word.

“Why girls?” Kyoga then seriously asked them. “Why did you all have to go and say all of that?”

“Because she is acting over-protective of her brother.” Applejack assertively responded back. “Isn’t it obvious?”

“Seems to be what’s obvious is that you girls are all too pre-occupied with this whole wedding to even listen or even hear her out.” Kyoga fired back. “Twilight is on to something here.”

“What do you mean?” Fuli asked.

“For starters the Princess of Love even though I have never met her before sure would be a lot friendlier for sure. And I noticed that her horn was glowing strange green magic in contrast to the pink or blue magic I was expecting to see.” Kyoga explained to everyone.

“Hmm, that is kinda strange.” Ono then thought.

“I did thought she would be a little nicer about it.” Beshte then thought.

“Maybe we should look at Cadance a little more closely.” Fuli suggested.

“Still thinking y’all are wasting your time here.” Applejack warned.

“Well at least the Lion Guard has Twilight’s back here compared to all of you being more caught up the wedding.” Kyoga dismissed her as she turned to the Lion Guard’s Fiercest. “How about you, you in for being there for your best friend?”

“Yes.” He replied feeling after thinking about it for a moment. “I’m in. Let’s go.” He ushered the others to follow him after Twilight.

Once everyone got inside the castle the group stopped so they can figure out how to deal with this.

“What’s the plan, Kion.” Fuli asked.

“We’re going to watch Cadance closely and keep watch on her so that way we’ll be ready to deal with her should Twilight be correct.” Kion stated.

“Which she is.” Kyoga muttered under her breath before speaking up clearly. “Good. Karabi, Lite, Kovu and I do some investigating downstairs because I got a feeling someone is trapped down there.”

“Okay.” Kion agreed with her decision without question. “Let’s go!” He declared as they went to search for both Twilight and Cadance as the former made his way to his brother’s home just as he was trying on his outfit for the wedding. A red captain’s jacket with gold trimmings on the collar with a silver sash with a badge on the chest with the star from his cutie mark on it.

“Twily!” He happily greeted her as she walked inside. “Your big brother's looking pretty good, don't you think?” He proudly said as he then noticed his little sister’s frown. “Huh. Everything okay?”

“We need to talk. I think you're making a big–“ Twilight began before Cadance herself cleared her throat apparently already inside and right behind her from the top of the stairs.

“Oh, uh, hi, sweetie.” He greeted her as she made her way down the stairs.

“She sure has a way of sneaking up on people.” She muttered to herself.

“Could I speak to you for a moment, dear?” She asked as she walked to the side.

“Better see what she wants.” Shining quickly said to her sister before following her to a private room so they can converse.

“Look, we need to talk.”

“I'm here to talk.”

“It's about your sister, okay?”

“I– look, look, she's okay–“

“Just... listen to me…” Cadance then said while trying to talk over Shining Armor. “…alright? No no–“

“I'm listening, I'm listening.”

During this Twilight secretly snuck up to the door and peered her eye as she tapped the door slightly open so she can spy on them.

“I thought I made it perfectly clear I didn't want you to wear that.” Cadance voiced her disdain towards his planned outfit.

“This was my favorite uncle's.” He insisted.

“And?”

“And I think I should wear it.” He asserted.

“Are you disagreeing with me?” Cadance challenged.

“I guess I am…” Shining stated as he got another painful headache from his constant casting of his force field spell. “…Ah!”

“Oh, dear. Are you getting another one of your headaches?” Cadance said to him with fake concern as he collapsed before working her green magic on him that made his eyes spinning green as she helped him up.

Twilight secretly witnessing this remembered that little detail from earlier while recalling the real Cadance’s magic aura was blue not green.

“Feeling better?”

“Mm-hmm.”

“She isn't just unpleasant and rude. She's downright evil!” She concluded as she quickly ran out of the house just as the two walked out of the room together.

“Twilight! He called after her to no avail.

“Let her go.” Cadance insisted with a smile as she rested her head on the side of his chest.

“Huh. It seemed like she had something else she wanted to tell me.” Shining couldn’t help but wonder what it was before she ran out as Scar secretly witnesses this from the nearby window.

“Oh, she sure did big brother.” Scar secretly commented. “And surely you would have realized that before the love of your life interrupted.” He chuckled as Cadance spotted him before winking at his direction while Shining Armor wasn’t paying attention.

Twilight then made her way to find the other girls to which caught Princess Luna’s attention.

“Who goes there?” She shouted before softening up upon seeing Twilight. “Stay indoors, Twilight Sparkle.”

Just as Luna turned back to watch over the telescope she is greeted by Kyoga who appeared in the observatory room with her.

“Kyoga! What are you doing here?!” She asked while slightly alarmed by her sudden presence.

“Forgive me for the intrusion, Princess Luna.” Kyoga started with a bow before continuing. “But I need to talk to you about something very important.” She then brought her in for a whisper while she continues watching over through the telescope as she returns understand nods and perplexed reactions to what she was just told.

“Don’t worry, Kyoga. We’ll take care of this.” She vowed.

Back at the girl’s room, Twilight barges inside to warn them.

“Shining Armor's in real trouble! You have to help–“ She began before seeing the girl’s are all in dresses. “Dresses? What are you–?” She began before Fluttershy flew over to explain.

“Can you believe it? We're gonna be Princess Mi Amore Cadenza's new bridesmaids!” She said as she lifted the skirt part of her dress up rather excitedly.

“New bridesmaids? What happened to her old bridesmaids?” Twilight questioned taken aback hearing this.

“She didn't say. But she did tell us that she would love-love-love it if we'd fill in for them.” Applejack replied.

“Seeing as we've been working so hard and everything.” Rarity added.

“And you had your doubts about her.”

“Told you she was an absolute gem!”

The two then stated that there is nothing wrong with her as Twilight could not believe what she was hearing.

“You sure this is what I should wear?” Rainbow asked the fashionista as she examined her dress and looked a little uncomfortable. “Doesn't seem all that aerodynamic.”

“Hmm. I'll see what I can do.” Rarity offered as she led Rainbow to another room to help her readjust it more.

Seeing the girls aren’t going to listen to her here, Twilight then turns away feeling downcast of how too swept up and deep they are more in the wedding preparations and their own self-interests to hear her out.

“Looks like I really am on my own.” She lamented to herself as Scar secretly watched her leave from the nearby railing just out of her and Luna’s sight.

“Sure seems that way, Twilight.” Scar couldn’t agree more with a pang of sympathy for her. “And now for the part where I think you’ll sure see things my way. For you are about to fully understand of where it all started for me.” He added with his sinister green eyes locked on the unicorn with her back turned as he prepares for a life changing experience she’ll never forget.

Throughout the night, the Lion Guard has all been keeping their guard up in monitoring Cadance. Aside from the green magic found nothing out of the ordinary other than her rude and condescending attitude towards others that try to help her out when they try to assist her. But during it they have never come across Twilight as she is choosing to act on her own accord.

No matter, because the Lion Guard will always have Twilight’s back even with the Mane Five are more interested in dealing with the upcoming wedding tomorrow afternoon. They kept guard just outside of the room where Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, Princess Celestia, King Simba, Spike, and the Mane Five all get together for a rehearsal so they can all be ready to act when necessary.

With wedding music playing in the background with Simba and Celestia both standing side by side on top of the altar while Shining Armor stands in front of them with Spike standing two steps below them with a pillow containing the rings om them just as the Mane Five proudly walk on the carpet towards the steps.

“Perfect, girls. No need to rush.” She commended them as Rarity and Rainbow share an excited giggle. “Then of course, Cadance will enter.” She then said as she used her magic to open the doors where the bride is standing just outside.

Just as Cadance walks inside and on the carpet leading up to the stairs towards the groom, Twilight followed after her from her hiding spot from the very far corner of the nearby hallway to which the Guard noticed from hiding in their corners.

“Twilight!” Kion tried to call after her to which didn’t get her attention as she knew what to do from there.

“What is she doing?” Fuli whispered of what to make of this.

“I don’t know.” He answered just as lost as they follow after her just as she prepares to burst inside.

“We'll say a few words, and then we'll begin with the vows.” Simba then said as the two affectionately lock horns together. “Shining Armor, you'll get the ring from your best mare.”

The two turn to where they expect Twilight to be standing by their side only to see she is not there. Instead is Spike being caught red-clawed playing with the figurines for the third time in a row.

“Do you? I do!” He mimicked in their voices as he suddenly saw the surprise everyone is seeing.

“Hey... has anypony seen Twilight?” Shining Armor asked as she appeared and burst open the doors to confront the bride.

“I'm here! I'm not gonna stand next to her! And neither should you!” She answered and stated which left her brother rather embarrassed by her sudden outburst.

“I'm sorry, I... I don't know why she's acting like this.” He apologized somewhat nervously as Cadance returned an irritated expression.

“Maybe we should just ignore her.” She recommended rather rudely.

“You have to listen to me!” Twilight exclaimed stating one more time for everyone to hear her out as the Guard peers their heads from the doorway so they can watch this.

“Oh, goodness! Are you okay?” Fluttershy asked as she rushed over towards her.

“I'm fine.” She calmly replied.

“Ya sure about that?” Applejack questioned while leaning towards her to which is met with having her hat placed over her muzzle as Twilight continues with what she has to say.

“I've got something to say!” She said as she stepped forward towards Cadance while pointing an accusing hoof in her direction. “She's evil!”

While Shining Armor quickly moves in front of his bride’s defense as she flashed a brief alarmed look seeing that she is on to her while everyone even the guards share concerned chatter amongst themselves.

“She's been horrible to my friends…” She added as she teleported right behind Cadance. “…she's obviously done something to her bridesmaids…” She added as she backed the alicorn up against the nearby wall as she realizes that Twilight has her dead to rights. “…and if that wasn't enough, I saw her put a spell on my brother that made his eyes go all…” She briefly turned back and had her eyes rattling around like her brother’s the other day while sticking her tongue out.

Everyone all shared surprised looks as Cadance could only look around nervously before grinning nervously until being glared at by Twilight who smirks at her to make it clear that the jig is up. Cadance then started tearing up after a panicked gasp with her back against the corner.

“Why are you doing this to me?!” She cried tears before running off.

“Because you're evil!” Twilight declared with a hoof in her direction as she ran out of the room. “Evil!” She exclaimed again as she teleported at the doorway to call out in her direction. “And if I don't stop you, you're gonna ruin my brother's life!”

Everyone in the Guard could only share shocked reactions at Twilight’s bold accusation and outburst as she turns back inside the room feeling proud, having succeeded in taking care of her…

…at least before bumping into her brother standing right in front of her who became very angry with her for what she had just did. She tried to offer a smile to lighten the mood but he wasn’t having it as he really let her have it.

“You want to know why my eyes went all…” He briefly rattled his eyes. “Nuh! Because ever since I started having to perform my protection spell, I've been getting terrible migraines.” He said as he walked around Twilight. “Cadance hasn't been casting spells on me. She's been using her magic to heal me!”

Twilight tried to speak up to explain herself before being cut off as the Lion Guard watch on rather frightened by this display of sibling anger.

“And she decided to replace her bridesmaids because she found out the only reason they wanted to be in the wedding was so that they could meet Canterlot royalty!” He further shouted as the girls were looking on just as shocked as the Lion Guard as he slams his hoof on the ground. “And if she hasn't been on her best behavior with your friends, it's because with me being so busy, she's had to make all the decisions about the wedding!”

“I was just trying to–“ Twilight again tried to explain herself only to be cut by her pacing brother.

“She's been completely stressed out because it's really important to her that our big day be perfect!” He continued before looking at Twilight directly in the eyes. Something that obviously wasn't important to you!” He angrily added as he had another pained gasp from another headache. Despite the fight, Twilight offered to help her with a small smile to which he angrily refused. “Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride.” He then made his way out of the room to do so. “And you can forget about being my best mare.” He added as Twilight's ears dropped in shock along with Kion’s as that was getting too much for him to handle. “In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't show up to the wedding at all.”

As Shining Armor stormed out of the room, Twilight sat down dejected while turning back to the girls for comfort while Kion took some deep breaths to calm his nerves down from the shock of the scene as he and the others watch on feeling sorry for her along with the girls at least until the only pony Applejack spoke up feeling she deserved that.

“C'mon, y'all. Let's go check on the princess.” She told the others as they all quickly do so not even bothering to look at her sans Applejack who shoots her a dirty look at her without letting the shocked unicorn explain herself as she feels further saddened and hurt that they are all quick to turn their backs on her while Spike can not believe that her friends are even doing this.

Even Princess Celestia agreed with them as she walked out on her and followed after the others.

“I was–“ Twilight tried to explain to her.

“You have a lot to think about.” She coldly cut her off not even batting an eye glance at her as she used her magic to slam the doors shut after the guards left the room too leaving the poor unicorn driven to tears with her mouth and ears dropped agape alone with the Lion Guard who all were left speechless and stunned by that while Simba also had the same thoughts.

“Twilight…” Spike softly spoke to her still in shock still trying to process what had just happened.

“Maybe I was being overprotective.” Twilight thought to herself as she walked back to the stairs. “I could've gained a sister. But instead... I just lost a brother.” She lamented of what she had just lost as she signs a brief and somber tune again.

“He was my big brother, best friend

Forever...

And now, we'll never do anything

Together...”

She sang before crying to herself as Kion is the first to approach her with a much needed hug with Spike quick to join her.

“You okay, Twilight.” Beshte asked.

“That sure was intense.” Fuli commented as she shook off the shock.

“No I’m not okay.” She answered as she miserably choked while speaking. “I’ve ruined everything!”

“I wouldn’t say that.” Bunga tried to make light of it while being glared at by Fuli. “What did I say that time?! All I was trying to say that they had no right to be mad at her like that.”

“Of course they had every right to.” Twilight cried in pain. “I made my future sister-in-law cry after accusing her of being evil and just pretty much ensured that my brother wants nothing to do with me in less than three minutes.”

“Twilight. It’ll be okay.” Simba assured her as he placed a comforting paw on her back. “He just needs some time to cool down and realize how much you mean to him.”

“Exactly. He’s not going to disown you for that.” Spike added with a smile.

“And if he does then he can just…” Bunga added.

“Ahem.” Simba interrupted with a stern look to the honey badger warn him to watch his mouth. “Careful, Bunga. I was just warming up to you."

“Sorry.” He awkwardly responded as he quickly shut up.

“Anyways…” The lion king continued as he looked at the hurt unicorn in the eyes. “…Don’t worry about what had just happened. And if it helps we’ll go talk to him and the princess and make sure you get to be the Best Mare you deserve to be at the wedding.” He then offered.

“It’s least we can do after what you did for me and Kiara.” Kion encouragingly added with a warm smile.

“Okay.” Twilight sighed with a small brief smile. “Thanks.” She added as the two lions hugged her before they led the way out of the hallway.

“Everyone makes mistakes, Twilight.” Fuli gently said to her. “Even me.” She slightly bragged as Twilight briefly chuckled a little to thank her for having the decency to not say “I told you so.”

“Just you wait, Twilight.” Beshte smiled. “Everything will be okay.”

"After all he will still be your B.B.B.F.F." Spike assured with a friendly nudge in the shoulder.

“Just go on to your dorm and get ready.” Simba warmly advised. “Because I’m sure this will all be forgotten in no time at all.”

Everyone then all went ahead to do so while Twilight took a minute to recompose herself before doing as she was told to when she suddenly heard hoofsteps from right behind her…

…From Princess Cadance who appeared at the top of the steps with a warm forgiving smile to which Twilight quickly approached her seeking her forgiveness.

“I'm sorry!” She tearfully apologized with sincere remorse.

“You will be.” She responded with an evil and vengeful tone as her glaring eyes glowed green as the unicorn suddenly finds herself completely shocked as she is surrounded by green flames which dragged her underground to make her disappear without a trace.

As soon as Twilight was dealt with, Scar appeared from behind.

“Well done my princess friend.” Scar commended her. “And now that she is dealt with, we now can proceed with the plan.” He chuckled to himself as he recalled the memory of his fellow Lion Guard members walking out on him after he too was berated by his brother with their father even agreeing with Mufusa before walking out on him along with the others to leave him alone.

Scar angrily gritted his teeth upon being abandoned after a moment of feeling surprised and hurt by what had just happened before his visible grating wrath turned into an evil smile which turned into a vicious teeth sporting grin similarly to what Cadance had just did a minute ago before they both walk side by side in the present to prepare for what is about to happen…

Author's Note

In the beginning of this season finale we have Twilight's brother Shining Armor ready to marry her foalsitter Princess Mi Amore Cadenza (a.k.a. and more commonly known as Princess Cadance) in the upcoming royal wedding as the Guard has been assigned.

A day that is supposed to be a memorable occasion turns into the beginning of a nightmare as Twilight after reuniting with her brother and her past foalsitter as she correctly senses something is wrong when she detects Cadance's attitude as she finds she is not the mare she remembered her for...which she turn's out to be right in the end. But because of the other's gullibility along with refusing to listen or hear her out was preventing them from seeing that. And needless to say there were dire consequences that followed to form of the episode's plot.

All part of Scar and Chrysalis's plan to take over Equestria and the Pride Lands with the former always staying two steps ahead as usual with his constant monitoring of the main cast as they along with Zira's pride and Chrysalis's changelings prepare their attack.

One noticeable thing I wanted to do here was the sheer fact and loyalty Simba and the Lion Guard showed to Twilight after what happened at the rehearsal as they stuck by her side and comforted her instead of abandoning her. Even when they see that Twilight made a mistake (at least in regards to her approach to the situation.) they unlike her pony companions never turn their backs on her.

Furthermore, Kyoga who is on board and just as suspicious of the faux princess does some investigating with Kovu, Karabi, and Lite as she is drawn to the strange and faints gasps and cries for help from down below deep underground to where Twilight was transported.

With Twilight banished underground after being condemned for her actions and her suspicions correct at the last second, Scar now prepares to begin his takeover with the imposter by his side as we head to Part 2 of the Season 2 finale of the Pony Guard with big surprises that will leave nothing the same as before...