The Jedi Prince

by Skywalker215

Rating: teen
Tags: Romance, Adventure, Sex, Science Fiction, Twilight Sparkle, Star Wars, Violence, Princess Celestia, Crossover, Alternate Universe, Human, Anthro, Main 6, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Princess Cadance
Length: 57331

Princess Celestia adopts a force-sensitive child and raises him as her own.

A Jedi Knight named Blaze Ando, his trusted clone commander, Dagger, and astromech droid, R5-G7 escaped Imperial forces on Naboo, with his newborn son, Cody. After making their escape, they flee to Wild Space and end up on the remote planet of Equestria where he meets and falls in love with Princess Celestia, who in turn helps him raise his son and prepares him to rule Equestria. As Cody grows up, he trains to be a Jedi under his father and he also learns about the magic of friendship.

Set before and during Season One.
Timeline: 18 BBY-2 BBY

All credit for every MLP episode goes to Hasbro and Lauren Faust. All credit for the Star Wars saga goes to Lucasfilm.

Published 2021-11-01 03:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2022-06-12 04:37:24 UTC

Chapter 2: Two Hearts Become One

The next morning after Celestia ‘rose’ the sun, she held Cody in her arms for his feeding. Afterwards, she went over to Blaze’s quarters and gave Cody to him.

“Good morning, Blaze,” Celestia said.

“Morning, Celestia. This is the best sleep ever I had,” Blaze replied.

“Would you and Dagger like to join me for breakfast?” Celestia asked.

“I’d love to. He and I haven’t had a decent meal since the last time we were on leave,” Blaze replied.

Once in the dining room, Blaze was seated next to Celestia with Cody in her arms. Just then, two young foals came in. One was a white unicorn colt with a blonde mane and tail, and light blue eyes. The other was a pink pegasus filly who had a purple mane and tail with pink and gold streaks, and purple eyes. They were both eight years old.

“Good morning, Aunt Celestia,” the filly said.

“Morning, Cadance,” Celestia replied.

The colt just got seated without a word as he was shocked at the sight of Blaze, Dagger, and Cody.

“Blaze and Dagger, this is my niece, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza or Cadance for short, and my nephew, Prince Blueblood. Cadance and Blueblood, these our our new residents, Blaze Ando and Commander Dagger,” Celestia said.

“A pleasure to meet you Blaze. You too, Commander Dagger. Welcome to Equestria,” Cadance greeted as she sat close to Blaze.

“Good to meet you also, Cadance,” Blaze replied.

“Great to meet you too, kids,” Dagger added.

“Aww. Who’s this little one?” Cadance asked as she noticed Cody in her aunt’s arms.

“This is Blaze’s son, Cody, and he’s a human baby, who I’m helping to raise,” Celestia replied, “Would you like to hold him?”

“Yes, please,” said Cadance.

Celestia gave Cody to Cadance, and she said, “He’s so precious and such a sweet little thing. Where’s his mom?”

“She passed away after giving birth to him yesterday,” Blaze replied.

“I’m the closest he has to a mother now,” Celestia added.

Cadance showed Cody to Blueblood, but he just huffed and said, “Ugh, it’s hideous.”

“Well that’s not very nice,” Dagger replied.

“Don’t talk about my son like that, Blueblood,” Blaze added.

Shortly after breakfast, it was time for day court. Just then, a maid came to Celestia and Blaze. Her eyes were greenish-yellow, she had a lavender coat, her mane and tail were a darker shade of purple, and her cutie mark was two paper lanterns with flowers on them. She also had kanzashi sticks in her mane.

“I’m glad you’re here, Kimono. There’s something I’d like you to do for us,” Celestia said.

“What can I do for you, princess?” Kimono asked.

“It involves something precious to me and my friend, Blaze Ando. This is his son, Cody. Would you mind being his foalsitter while Blaze and I are handling morning court and royal duties?” Celestia said.

“As you wish, princess. You can count on me,” Kimono replied.

Celestia gave Cody to Kimono, he then nuzzled with her chest fur and gently hugged her mane and sucked his thumbs. “Awwwwww... He’s such a sweet little one. Where did the little one and his father come from?” Kimono asked.

“They, along with Commander Dagger and the droid, R5-G7, came from Naboo, a planet beyond Equestria, in a region known as the Mid Rim of this galaxy,” Celestia replied.

Soon enough, Cadance came into where Cody and Kimono were and asked, “Ms. Kimono, may I play with Cody?”

“Sure. Just be careful with him,” Kimono replied.

Meanwhile, Celestia and Blaze has just started morning court.

“I’m glad you offered to help me with my royal duties, Blaze,” Celestia said.

“It was all I could think of, I figured you may have use for my talents as a negotiator and a peacekeeper,” Blaze replied, “Besides, coming to this planet and helping you gives me a purpose again.”

“I’m happy you feel that way, I bet Dagger feels the same way since he took my offer to be an instructor for my guards,” said Celestia.

“As an experienced soldier, that job suits him perfectly,” Blaze said.

“How long have you been a Jedi?” Celestia asked.

“I’ve been in the Order since I was just over a year old after my parents died, and I’ve been a knight for twelve years, shortly after I turned 18. All together, I’m 30 years old,” Blaze replied, then asked, “How long have you ruled Equestria?”

“I’ve been ruling for a thousand years, and I am exactly 1,027 years old,” said Celestia.

“Wow. You’ve been alive almost as long as the Republic was standing. For someone who’s that old, you look gorgeous,” Blaze said eyeing her curvy figure.

“Thank you, Blaze. You’re very handsome and good looking yourself,” Celestia replied.

Meanwhile, in the castle lounge, Kimono took Cody back to Celestia’s chambers for a nap.

“You’re really good with him, Ms. Kimono. Do you have any foals?” Cadance asked.

“Yes, two of them. My oldest is a daughter just about your age, and a son born two years ago,” Kimono replied.

While Cody was napping, Cadance and Kimono were reading some stories.

A week went by as Celestia and Blaze became closer and she formed a motherly bond with Cody. After a few hours of day court ended, and dealing with an opening ceremony, several contests involving flowers, pastries and other recipes by various gardeners, cooks and bakers, along with checking and signing other important documents and having a royal lunch conference with other ponies, Celestia and Blaze came back to the lounge to relax for the rest of the day. Upon entering, the princess and Jedi smiled at the cutest thing they’ve ever seen. Kimono and Cadance were playing with Cody.

Soon enough, it was time for Kimono to return to her home. Dagger had also come to the lounge to relax after a long day of training new recruits.

“How was your first day on the job?” Blaze asked.

“It was alright. These guards weren’t all that hard to handle, they’re no clone troopers, but they sure no how to follow orders,” Dagger replied then smirked slyly at Blaze.

“What are you smirking at, Dagger?” Blaze asked whilst blushing.

“You really like Princess Celestia, don’t you?” Dagger wondered.

“Okay, yes I do. She’s only the most beautiful and gorgeous female of any species in the galaxy I’ve ever met,” Blaze replied, then asked, “Have any of the females on this planet caught your eye?”

“None so far, but I’ll keep you posted about it when it does happen,” Dagger said.

Shortly after dinner and Cody’s evening feeding, Blaze and Celestia went into a very special part of the castle.

“What do you think?” Celestia asked.

“It looks shiny in here. I’m surprised you have a swimming pool here in the castle, and it’s a big one too,” Blaze said.

“Just because I am a princess doesn’t mean I can’t go for a swim on occasion, and anypony else who wants to swim is welcome, even the guards sometimes do aquatic training here,” Celestia replied.

She then took off her royal dress and put on her reddish pink bikini, then entered the pool.

“Would you like to come in and join me, Blaze?” Celestia asked.

“Sure, just let me get my new boardshorts on,” Blaze replied.

He took of his robe, pants, and boots, then put on his boardshorts made for him by a local designer. Once he got in, he shivered and said, “That’s cold. I haven’t been in the water since Dagger and I were fighting on Rodia and Mon Cala two years ago.”

“Try moving around a little, then you’ll get used to it,” Celestia replied as she took a lap.

Blaze immediately blushed at the sight of Celestia’s wet mane and how graceful of a swimmer she was. He decided to let out his fun-loving side and surprise her. Using the Force, he summoned a wave of water which splashed her and he grabbed her from behind and lifted her up, pressing his toned body against her back, causing her to yelp in shock and blush. Then they fell backwards in the water.

“Oh yeah? Two can play at that game, Blaze,” Celestia said smirking.

With her alicorn magic, she compacted an orb of water and splashed Blaze. They began splashing each other until she jumped on him, pushing them both under. After surfacing, they looked in each other’s eyes lovingly, and Blaze said, “You have beautiful eyes.

“Thanks, Blaze. You’re really sweet,” Celestia replied, “This is the most tender moment I’ve ever had.”

“Mine too,” said Blaze.

Blaze lifted up Celestia by her legs, while she wrapped her arms around the back of his neck, and they shared a kiss. It soon became a make out session as Blaze moved his hands across her legs to her rump and fondled it, while she caressed his chest, causing them both to moan.

After five minutes, they broke the kiss and Celestia said, “Let’s say we soak in the hot tub.”

“Fine by me,” Blaze replied as they went out of the pool and into the hot tub.

Once in the hot tub, Blaze and Celestia sat close together with his right arm wrapped around her waist, then he asked, “Anyone else in your family besides you, Blueblood, and Cadance that I should know about?”

“I had a younger sister named Luna, who I had to imprison in the moon since she turned evil and became Nightmare Moon. My parents, Queen Majesty and King Primus passed away not too long after, all this happened a thousand years ago,” Celestia explained.

“Sorry to hear that. When I came here, I detected a life sign on the moon, let me guess that was your sister?” Blaze said.

“Yes. If she hadn’t turned, I bet she would have wanted to meet you, Dagger, and Cody,” Celestia replied.

“On a more positive note, I must say you’re the most caring and beautiful soul I ever met and that’s what I love about you,” said Blaze.

“Blaze, you’re more stallion than any I ever met and I’m in love with you as well,” Celestia replied.

Blaze and Celestia began to make out once more, he wrapped his other arm around her waist, then she got on his lap facing him. On instinct, his hands then moved to her breasts and he fondled them, causing her to moan, then he broke the kiss saying, “Sorry about that. I don’t know what came over me.”

“It’s alright. You’re the only male I will allow to gently lay a hand on my chest,” Celestia replied as they resumed making out.

As they continued to make out, Blaze then moved his hands onto her legs and caressed them. After ten minutes, they broke the kiss and Blaze asked, “Celestia, would you like me to take you on a date anytime soon?”

“I’d love that, Blaze. I just need to check my schedule for this week,” Celestia replied.

After drying off and taking a shower, Blaze and Celestia went onto the balcony and stood there while she turned the planet to face the moon to begin the night.

“I love you, Blaze,” Celestia said.

“I love you as well, Celestia,” Blaze replied.

The two new lovers engaged in their third steamy makeout session. Watching from the doorway to Celestia’s chambers were Blueblood and Cadance, who was holding Cody.

“What a disgusting display,” Blueblood said quietly.

“Come on, Blueblood. I’ve never seen Aunt Celestia so happy and I’m happy for her, you should be too,” Cadance retorted.

Blueblood just left in a huff, while Cadance placed Cody in his crib, then left for her room. Blaze also left for his chambers.

Chapter 3: A Peaceful Life - Part 1

Later that week, after a brief three hours of royal duties, Blaze and Celestia went out for their first date, leaving Kimono to watch Cody and Cadance. Blueblood was confined to his chambers as punishment for his constant insults at Blaze, Cody, and Dagger. Blaze’s Jedi robe was now fitted with epaulettes, buttons, and a diagonal sash, signifying his status as honorary royalty.

For their date, Blaze and Celestia decided to take a walk in the park. There, they also took the time to enjoy the scenic mountainside view.

“This is a nice view. Canterlot reminds me of Theed on Naboo, the high altitude, the waterfall, and even the castle to an extent. Even the plains beneath us are reminiscent to the plains on Naboo,” Blaze said.

“You must surely miss Naboo, right?” Celestia asked.

“I do, but I’m beginning to like Equestria better, as there hasn’t been a full scale war here for centuries, and it’s highly unlikely that the Empire will find this place,” Blaze replied.

“Meeting you and Cody was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Celestia said.

“Meeting you and Cadance was the best thing that happened to me as well,” Blaze replied.

The two leaned in closer and they kissed passionately with Celestia on top as Blaze acted on instinct and wrapped his arms around Celestia’s waist. As they kept making out, Blaze moved his hands down to her rump, making her moan, then he flipped them over so he was on top, and then he ran his hands up and down her legs. Afterwards, they gently broke away, got up, and resumed their romantic stroll.

A few hours later, evening was near and Celestia was deep in her thoughts. She broke the silence and said, “How could I have been so blind? The Grand Galloping Gala is tonight, we need to make the final preparations.”

“I guess we were so lost in love that we lost track of time,” Blaze replied.

After Celestia and Blaze began the night and finished final preparations, the Gala had begun. Blaze immediately blushed at Celestia’s gala attire, she wore a glittering white and gold one-shoulder dress with slits on both sides showing off her legs.

“You look gorgeous as always, Celestia. Gold and white are definitely your colors,” Blaze said.

“Thanks, Blaze. You look sharp yourself, this is one reason I recommended these modifications to your Jedi attire,” Celestia giggled, “Shall we head out to the main hall and greet the guests?”

“Lets,” Blaze answered as he took her hand.

While the guests were dancing and mingling, Dagger shared his war stories with the guards.

Soon enough, Blaze witnessed many ponies dancing with each other, couples and soon-to-be couples, he went up to Celestia and asked, “Celestia, do you want to dance?”

“I’d love that, Blaze,” Celestia replied.

He took her gently by the hand and guided her to the dance floor, with one hand interlocked with her own while the other was brought to her waist, they took their first few steps to slowly rotate. A lot of heads were turned as Blaze and Celestia performed an elegant waltz with each other. Blaze then decided to switch up into a tango, Celestia was enamored at his dancing skills and asked, “How are you so great at this?”

“I watched hologram recordings with dancing instructions,” Blaze replied.

As they kept dancing, Blaze grabbed her right leg and placed dipped her. Celestia also dipped Blaze, he was amazed at her skills too, then he spun her around, grabbed her left leg and dipped her again. The two lovers shared a kiss and the other ponies attending looked on in surprise and wonder.

As it was getting later, Blaze and Celestia went up to Cadance, who was holding Cody.

“I think it’s time for Cody to get some sleep, it’s time for you to go to bed too, Cadance,” Celestia said as Cody was given to her.

“Cadance, would you mind having Cody sleep in your quarters for the next several months?” Blaze asked.

“I don’t mind at all. He should get to know me some more,” Cadance replied.

Celestia gave Cody to Cadance, then Dagger went to get the crib and bring it into her quarters.

“All that dancing really wore me out. I’m getting to tired to walk,” Celestia said.

“Allow me to assist,” Blaze replied as he picked her up and carried her bridal style.

Celestia swooned at being swept off her hooves. After Cody’s crib was placed in Cadance’s quarters, Cadance gave Cody a kiss on his face and gently placed him in it. Once Cody and Cadance went to sleep, Dagger went to his chambers.

Meanwhile, Blaze gently placed Celestia on her bed then went to his quarters before grabbed his hand and asked, “Would you care to start sleeping with me?”

“I don’t mind, but my sleepwear is back in my quarters,” Blaze said.

“I can fix that,” Celestia replied.

She managed to teleport his sleepwear to him, then he hung his robe in the closet, while she put on her nightgown, it was light yellow and reached the top of her thighs. Blaze stripped of his gray pants and put on his sleep pants, then the both of them covered up and fell asleep in each other’s embrace.

The next morning, Celestia woke up to begin the daylight. Immediately afterwards, Blaze woke up and noticed a perch where a red and orange bird was on.

“Is that your pet?” Blaze asked.

“Yes, this is Philomena. She’s a phoenix, they’re capable of lifting heavy loads, bursting into flame when they molt, their tears have healing powers, and they can live for centuries,” Celestia explained.

She soon had a smirk on her face, went up to Blaze and said, “It’s still early, we’ve got time for some extra personal pleasure.”

“Are you sure? We’ve only just started our relationship and had our first date yesterday,” Blaze asked.

“I’ve waited roughly a thousand years for this and I think that’s long enough. Don’t you think?” Celestia replied flirtatiously, then batted her eyes.

“Now that I think about it, that is far too long of a wait,” said Blaze.

He and Celestia began engaging in a heated makeout session, his hands were on her waist, while hers were wrapped around the back of his neck. Using her magic, she took his sleep pants down, along with his undergarments. Blaze then took off her nightgown, revealing her yellow lace bra and panties. He kissed her neck and fondled her breasts, making her moan and mew, then he took off her bra and panties, rubbing down her legs as he did so. She then cast a soundproofing spell as well as a temporary anti-pregnancy spell, then they collapsed on the bed and the room was filled with the sounds of lovemaking.

Fifteen minutes later, they were in their robes with messy hair and panting.

“Wow, I can’t believe you were able to last so long in five rounds,” Celestia said.

“Increased stamina is one perk of being talented with the Force, as well as enhanced strength, endurance, and agility,” Blaze replied, then took a whiff.

“Before breakfast and everything else, we need to head for the shower. Care to join me?” Celestia said flirtatiously.

“Sure. Might as well save time,” Blaze replied.

Chapter 4: A Peaceful Life - Part 2

A short time later, everyone was in the dining room enjoying a good breakfast. Cody was getting his morning feeding, while everyone else was having pancakes and scrambled eggs. Blueblood as always was more focused on eating and his own thing rather than family matters.

Once everyone was finished eating, Celestia and Blaze began morning court, then royal duties while Dagger went to do his job as the guard instructor and Cadance was with Cody and Kimono in the lounge. Blueblood was just reading some books and minding his own business, while Cadance played with Cody and R5.

“Blueblood, why don’t you want to hang with us and play with Cody?” Cadance asked.

“I don’t want anything to do with that stranger. Besides, who could love a hideous, ugly beast? These flat-faced creatures don’t belong here,” Blueblood replied.

“If you say such things like that again, I’m telling Aunt Celestia,” Cadance said.

An hour after Celestia and Blaze were finished with their royal duties for the day, same for Dagger with his duties. They went to the lounge to check on Cody. Kimono gave Cody to Celestia and Blaze once she was dismissed for the day and returned home, he whimpered, began to whine, and it appeared he would cry as he could sense his father’s anxiety.

“Shhhhhh shhhhhh… There, there, sweetie. It’s okay. Mommy’s here,” she said pulling him up to her chest, “Mommy’s got you.”

Celestia then watched him snuggled on her chest as he calmed down, and said to him, “I promise, we’ll never let anything happen to you.....our dear little Cody.”

Eight months later

Winter was in full swing as snow filled the streets of Canterlot, every building, including the castle was decorated as it was Hearth’s Warming Day. Inside the castle, Celestia, Blaze, and Dagger, along with Cadance and R5 were in the lounge in front of the tree, decorated with lights and various other décor. Blueblood sat by himself, reading some holiday storybooks.

Celestia was now wearing a silver necklace with an amethyst pendant, given to her by Blaze months before. She opened her last Hearth’s Warming present under the tree, revealing a ruby ring. Celestia was touched by this as Blaze asked, “Celestia, will you marry me and take me as your prince?”

“Yes! Yes! Yes!” Celestia shouted as she tackled Blaze to the floor and they engaged in a heated make-out session.

They soon gently broke away and got up, and Blaze placed the ring on her finger.

Cadance then gave her present for Blaze, he opened it, revealing a wooden bracelet with a combination of the Jedi symbol and the sun royal seal carved on it.

“I made it for you. May it bring you honor,” Cadance said.

“Thanks, Cadance. My greatest honor is having you for a niece,” Blaze replied as he hugged her.

“Thank you,....Uncle Blaze,” said Cadance as she returned the hug.

“Way to go, Blaze,” Dagger said as he was holding Cody.

“Thanks, Dagger,” Blaze replied.

Dagger gave Cody to Celestia as he went deep into his thoughts.

All of a sudden, Cody began babbling, “M-m-ma... Mmm... Mmmmmm... M-m-ma mmmm...”

“What is it, Cody?” Cadance asked. “M-m-ma... M-m-ma... Mmm... mmm... ma... ma...” Cody kept babbling.

Cadance knew what was happening. “Aunt Celestia! Uncle Blaze!” Cadance said, as Celestia was still holding Cody on her lap.

“What is it, dear?” Celestia asked.

“Cody’s trying to talk!” Cadance replied.

“He is?” Blaze asked.

“That’s wonderful, Cadance.” Celestia added then looked at their son, “Go on. We’re listening.”

“Mmm... mm mm mmm... Ma... Mama,” Cody said.

Celestia and Blaze smiled warmly at their son’s first word, and then nuzzled with him as he hugged her face gently, “I’m proud of you, my son.” She then gave him a kiss.

“Got more to say, Cody? We’re all ears,” Blaze asked.

“Ddd... dd dd ddd... Da... Dada,” Cody said.

“Got anything for your Uncle Dagger?” said Dagger.

“Da...Dagga,” Cody babbled.

“Since you and Aunt Celestia are getting married soon, does this mean Cody is my cousin?!” Cadance asked Blaze.

“Yes, Cadance,” Blaze replied.

“Oh, my little cousin Cody, I love you so much!” Cadance said.

She gently pressed Cody against her chest, and then gave him a few kisses on his face.

“We’re glad you do, Cadance, but there are other ponies who won’t treat him as the intelligent being he is, so it’s up to you to protect him.” Celestia replied and smiled warmly.

“The nerve of those mean and nasty ponies! I won’t let them! I’ll protect him! And I’d really like to show him to my friends because I know they’ll like him too!” Cadance said.

“Maybe you can at the wedding when it happens,” Blaze replied.

After the night began, Celestia came to Blaze wearing her robe and asked, “Ready for your special Hearth’s Warming surprise?”

“I am. Hit me with it,” Blaze replied.

Celestia disrobed, revealing red and white striped lingerie patterned like a candy cane, then she activated a soundproofing spell as well as a temporary anti-pregnancy spell. She then straddled Blaze and they began making out, Blaze flipped her over so he was on top, then they stripped each other and the room was filled with the sounds of pleasure.

The following week, Blaze and Celestia’s wedding was in full swing and the ceremony had just begun. The music began playing as Cadance left a trail of flowers and Celestia came down the aisle wearing a light yellow wedding dress.

Kimono then gave Cody to Cadance as they took their seats. At Blaze’s side was his best man, Commander Dagger, wearing a white suit, while at Celestia’s side was her secretary and maid of honor, Raven Inkwell, and R5 was the ringbearer. Officiating the wedding was Copper Pendant, the mayor of Canterlot. He was a copper red unicorn with green eyes and an indigo mane, with three copper ingots and a necklace for a cutie mark.

The mayor began his announcement, “Welcome, mares and gentlecolts. Today we are gathered here to witness the marriage of Princess Celestia and Blaze Ando, now they will recite the vows.”

Celestia and Blaze recited their vows, then Mayor Copper Pendant went on with the ceremony and said, “Princess Celestia, do you take Blaze Ando to be your husband?”

“I do,” Celestia said.

“And Blaze, do you take Princess Celestia to be your wife?” Copper Pendant continued.

“I do,” Blaze said.

R5 gave Celestia and Blaze their rings, then they placed them on each other’s fingers.

“By the powers vested in me, I declare you two husband and wife. You may kiss,” Copper Pendant finished, “Mares and gentlecolts, let’s hear it for our new prince.”

Celestia and Blaze leaned forward and kissed. Their friends, family, and the castle staff cheered, along with everypony else who was present, even R5 gave some cheerful beeps and whistles.

Soon enough, the reception began in the castle garden, lovely, romantic music was played by the orchestra. Celestia and Blaze had the first dance, most everyone else in attendance danced with their special some-ponies soon enough. Among the couples were Captain Valiant and his wife, Starshine, along with Lieutenant Lancer and his wife, Kimono, even Dagger shared a dance with Raven. Cadance, who was still holding Cody, met up with Lancer and Kimono’s daughter. She was a light neon blue pegasus filly with hot pink eyes, a lavender mane and tail, and a mist cloud for a cutie mark.

“I’m Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, but you can call me Cadance, and this is my cousin Cody,” Cadance said.

“Hi, Cadance. I’m Misty Sky,” the other filly replied.

Cadance and Misty met up with two other fillies who were Cadance’s friends from Canterlot Grade School. One was a pegasus with light gray fur, a brushed and two sided curled mane and tail with streaks of pale light grayish cerise, moderate rose, and brilliant crimson, light azure eyes and a cutie mark of a red brilliant-cut gemstone. Her name was Diamond Rose. The other was a unicorn with white fur, a light pink mane and tail with white streaks, pale purple eyes, and a cutie mark of three fleur-de-lis symbols. Her name was Fleur de Lis.

“Hi, Fleur! Hi, Diamond Rose!” Cadance said.

“Hi, Cadance!” Fleur and Diamond replied in unison.

“Girls, this is my cousin, Cody Ando, and his foalsitter’s daughter, Misty Sky,” Cadance said.

“Good to meet you, Misty,” Diamond Rose replied.

Soon enough, Celestia and Blaze made an announcement with Cadance, Dagger, and R5 by their side, “Thank you all for your attention, everypony. A few months ago... I was blessed with something beautiful that changed my life forever and somehow touched my heart, the very someone that I married and is now your prince. As well as a loving husband, I was also blessed... with... a son to love, and a chance to become a mother. My new husband, Blaze, our son, along with Commander Dagger and their droid, R5-G7 came here from another planet far elsewhere in the galaxy, fleeing an evil force known as the Galactic Empire which seeks total galactic domination.”

The staff, along with everypony else gasped to hear that and were surprisingly shocked but happy at the same time, but then started to get very concerned about the possibility of the Empire invading Equestria.

“As your new prince, I can assure you that any chance of the Empire finding Equestria and invading it is almost zero, so there is no need to panic,” Blaze continued.

“Now without further ado, I like to present to you, our son and future prince, Cody Ando,” Celestia finished as she held him up for all to see.

Just then, the castle staff and everypony else cheered and applauded.

A few hours after the wedding and Cody’s presentation to all of Equestria, it was nighttime.

“If only you could be here now, Luna. I’m sure you would’ve loved to meet my new husband, Blaze and your new nephew, Cody,” Celestia said as she looked up at the moon before turning in for the night with Blaze.

Author's Note

Image of Celestia's wedding dress courtesy of Newyorkx3 on Deviantart.

Chapter 5: The Prince's Birthday

Five years later, Cody had grown out of his crib and was sleeping in his bed, the same one his father had after their arrival from Naboo. He slept with his pink bunny plushie, Lovey, which used to belong to his cousin, Cadance. She gave her to him as a present for his fourth birthday, he also slept with a phoenix plushie whom he named Thunder, given to him by his mother on his first birthday. After the morning came, Cody woke up and refreshed himself from his sleep. He now had fully grown a light shade of brown hair. He was also wearing a pair of navy blue pajamas with a zipper on the top, made for him by the local designer. Curling up on the bed with him was his pet aviserpen (feathered serpent), Padme, given to him on his third birthday by his parents, they’ve been inseparable friends since she hatched.

“Morning, Padme,” Cody said.

Padme cooed and chattered in response. After waking up, Cody ran over to his dresser and got dressed into his clothes, which consisted a pair of gray cargo pants, a tan shirt under a dark blue sweatshirt with his mother’s cutie mark under the Jedi crest on both shoulders, and then put on his white socks and little fancy velcro strap black shoes.

Once he got out of his room, with Padme gently wrapped around his waist and her head rested on his shoulder, he walked over to Celestia and Blaze’s room and saw them meditating, until he got excited and jumped on to her for a hug, then said, “Good morning, Mommy! Morning, Daddy!”

Celestia giggled lightheartedly and then nuzzled with her son as she wrapped her arms around him.

“Awwww...good morning, birthday boy,” she replied, “How’s my sweet little angel today?” she asked.

“Morning, Cody. Happy birthday,” Blaze added as he hugged him.

She then gave him a kiss on the cheek and continued to hug him as he hugged her.

“I slept great, Mommy. Nothing to worry about,” Cody replied.

“That’s good, sweetie,” said Celestia.

“Morning, R5,” Cody greeted.

R5 beeped and whistled in response.

Soon enough, it was time for breakfast as Dagger and Cadance came in.

“Morning, Uncle Dagger,” Cody said.

“G’morning, Cody. Happy birthday,” Dagger replied.

Cadance was now 13 years old and an alicorn, achieving this through reversing a powerful love spell cast by an evil sorceress, also earning her cutie mark, which was a crystalline heart symbol. Her mane and tail were also braided with blue bows. She also wore a golden V-neck shirt under a red sweater and a blue skirt with her cutie mark etched on it.

“Hi, Cady!” Cody greeted.

“Happy birthday, Cody,” Cadance replied as she hugged him.

“Thanks, Cady,” Cody said.

Last to enter was Blueblood, who was also 13 years old and he now had a compass rose for a cutie mark. Cody was too scared to greet him because of the insults he would get for trying.

Cody was given a stack of three chocolate chip pancakes topped with maple syrup and whipped cream, alongside scrambled eggs and a fruit salad.

“Thanks for making my favorite birthday breakfast, mommy,” Cody said.

“You’re welcome, sweetie,” Celestia replied.

Through the years since Cody and Blaze came into Celestia’s life, Cadance helped show some love and support to her little cousin and uncle ever since she was a little pegasus filly, but while growing up, Cody had recent troubles remembering his favorite cousin was now both an alicorn and a princess, she was super smart, caring, kind, and funny. Cody was still glad to have another pony in his family like Cadance to care for his well-being.

Celestia and Blaze felt tears of happiness in their eyes as they saw their son growing up and it made them so proud, and then she felt overjoyed that the past five years were the best she ever had when she met Blaze and Cody as they made her life fully happy. She enjoyed letting her son and husband celebrate the holidays with her, including Hearth’s Warming (Cody’s favorite), Hearts and Hooves Day, Nightmare Night, and the Summer Sun Celebration, which ached her heart to think about the dark loss of Luna, but Blaze and Cody would always be there to cheer her up, and she even remembered his actual birthday, which is when she decided to make it the day he and Blaze arrived from Naboo.

After everyone was finished eating, it was time for Celestia and Blaze to begin their royal duties for the day.

“Now, we must attend to our royal duties, but try to finish them early before I come back for Cody’s birthday party later this afternoon,” Celestia said.

“As always, everypony is invited, so tell that to the rest of the staff, would you please, Captain?” Blaze added.

“Yes, sire,” Captain Valiant replied.

“We’ll see you soon, Cody. Now you be good for Kimono and Cadance, and please enjoy this day, ask for all the ice cream you want, but not too much, so save some for your birthday cake, okay?” Celestia said.

“Captain Valiant and Lieutenant Lancer will be here if there’s any trouble,” Blaze added.

“Yes, Mommy and Daddy. Have fun at work,” Cody said, “You too, Uncle Dagger.”

“See you this afternoon, Cody,” Dagger replied as he hugged him.

Once Celestia and Blaze left, Cody was then greeted by his foalsitter.

“Hi, Kimono!” He said excitedly as his foalsitter held him for a hug. “Hi, Cody! Happy birthday!” she replied.

“Thank you,” Cody said.

“You’re welcome, sweetheart. So, are you ready to spend another incredibly fun birthday with all of us?” Kimono asked.

“Yeah! I’m so happy!” Cody replied excitedly.

“Good to hear,” said Cadance.

Later on, the rest of the day went well as Cody and Padme spent their time playing with Cadance in the royal gardens.

Soon enough, it was late afternoon and it was now time to go to the party. Once there, Cody was greeted by the castle guards and staff, and then his mother and father were there too, as well as his honorary uncle Dagger, and even R5 was present. He then rushed over to her and gave her a crushing hug on the legs, until she lifted him up in her aura and then held against her chest for a real hug, and then nuzzled with her chest and neck fur. He also got hugs from his father and Dagger. Cody received a few presents, including a couple of toys and plushies, new books, new big boxes of crayons and markers of all colors, some new clothes, including some swim shorts, and a brand new playground ball. Celestia and Blaze came over with their gifts for their son and said. “Cody, your father and I have something for you, sweetie.”

Cody opened his gifts, revealing a journal and a copy of the children’s book, ‘Gusty the Great’.

“Thanks, Mommy and Daddy. I love you,” Cody said as he hugged them.

“We love you too, our sweet little prince,” Celestia replied.

All of a sudden, a phoenix with vivid amaranth and luminous vivid gamboge feathers, and light bright yellow eyes flew over and landed on Celestia’s arm.

“Hi, Philomena,” Cody said as he petted her.

She nuzzled with his cheek very sweetly with a soft coo like a dove. Padme also tenderly nuzzled with his other cheek.

“Ready to blow out the candles on your cake?” Blaze asked.

“Yes, Daddy,” Cody replied.

Once the cake was brought out, everyone started singing:

Afterwards, Cody blew his candles and they all had cake after Celestia and Blaze cut it.

A few hours after the party ended, Cody was already asleep after Celestia and Blaze tucked him in earlier and in his pajamas, but before he went to sleep, he saw Padme curled up on the bed looking at him, and said, “Goodnight, Padme.”

Padme chittered in reply, and then as Cody went back to sleep, the aviserpen also went to sleep.

A few hours into the night as Cody was asleep he saw, in his mind, the city of Canterlot, as well as a small town not too far in the distance.

Suddenly, he saw a fleet of massive ships coming into view, then he heard a scary noise. It was revealed to be groups of flying machines bearing down on the mountain and the plains below, he also heard clanking, revealed to be a group of enormous metal beasts.

“What are those things?” he thought while walking slowly and carefully. Cody heard a lot of screaming, explosions, and weapons firing. Canterlot and the small town were being attacked by armies of soldiers wearing white armor, killing on sight, same with the ships, flying machines, and giant metal beasts. He suddenly saw a tall man in black armor, a mask, and a cape, carrying a red blade. Cody heard him breathing ominously.

He then woke up screaming loudly. Cody saw that he was still in his bed he he was hyperventilating hardly and tearing after all the things that he just saw. He then began to cry, until he saw Celestia, Blaze, and Cadance walking over to him.

“Cody, are you alright?” Celestia asked.

Cody shook his head still crying, then Cadance asked, “What’s the matter?”

Cody just hugged his mother and cried into her chest. He raised his head facing his parents and cousin, then said, “I *sniffs* I h-had a nightmare, it felt so real.”

“Can you describe it?” Cadance asked.

“There were what looked to be some kind of large airships, flying machines, and giant metal beasts, along with white armored soldiers attacking Canterlot and some other town in the plains, they were destroying everything they saw, and there was also a tall man in black armor, a mask, and a cape, carrying a red blade leading the attack,” Cody explained.

“Those things you saw were Star Destroyers, TIE fighters, walkers, and stormtroopers. I think the man in the mask is Darth Vader, formerly known as Anakin Skywalker, who was an old friend of mine back in the the Clone War. You just had a terrible vision of the Force, you are strong with the Force,” Blaze replied.

“It’s the energy field that surrounds and penetrates us, and flows within all living things, including us ponies along with everything else living on our planet and it binds our galaxy together. Right, Uncle Blaze?” Cadance said.

“Very good memory, Cadance,” Blaze replied before turning to Cody, “This means you’re destined to become a Jedi. Your training begins next week.”

“Ok, Daddy. Cady, can I sleep with you, please?” Cody said.

“Sure, Cody. You need some extra comfort right now,” Cadance replied as she carried him to her bedroom.

There, she kissed him on his face and said, “Good night, Cody. I love you, little cuz.”

“I love you too, Cady,” Cody replied as he fell asleep in his cousin’s tender embrace.

Chapter 6: Meeting the Sparkle Family

The next morning

“Cody, there’s something we need to discuss with you,” Celestia said.

“What is it, Mommy?” Cody asked.

“Captain Valiant has requested your presence, he wants you to meet his niece and nephew,” Blaze replied.

“His niece is one of my star students. She’s also very eager to meet you, same with her brother. My other student also wants to meet you,” Celestia added.

“Okay, Mommy,” Cody replied.

Soon enough, Captain Valiant came in with his family. His nephew was a teenage unicorn colt with white fur, streaked blue mane and tail, blue eyes, blue hooves, and he had a cutie mark of a dark blue shield with a pink star in the middle and three light blue stars on top. He also wore a black shirt and gray pants. The captain’s niece was a seven-year-old purple unicorn filly with a dark blue mane and tail with purple and pink streaks, purple eyes, and a star with five white points surrounded by five white stars for a cutie mark. She also wore a dark and light blue striped shirt and a purple skirt with her cutie mark on it.

Captain Valiant’s brother was a blue unicorn stallion with a deep blue mane and tail and a two crescent moons for a cutie mark. He also wore a black shirt with green cargo pants. His brother’s wife was gray unicorn mare with a purple and white striped mane and tail, arctic blue eyes, and three stars for a cutie mark. She also wore a dark purple jacket over a blue shirt and a white skirt with her cutie mark on it.

“Prince Cody, this is my nephew, Shining Armor, my brother, Night Light, and his wife, Twilight Velvet,” Captain Valiant said.

“And this here is the captain’s niece, Twilight Sparkle. Twilight, this is our son, Cody Ando,” Celestia added.

Cody’s eyes widened at the sight of this pretty filly. He began blushing at her and he kept breathing in and out his nose as not to show it. Then he went behind his mother.

Celestia was deep in her thoughts, she and Blaze figured that their son could use a friend close to his age. Even though he was friends to many of the guards and other staff, including Captain Valiant, Lieutenant Lancer, and Kimono, they felt pony his close to age was a good idea. So Twilight was a perfect match, though she had another idea in her head. They also thought about their son’s future mare, their daughter-in-law. They thought that Twilight looked cute and could look good for Cody, but whoever he chose, they would be happy for him.

Twilight noticed this and said, “The prince is kinda bashful, isn’t he, mom?”

“Maybe he wouldn’t be if you said ‘hello’,” Velvet replied.

“Hello, Prince Cody,” Twilight said.

Cody just stood there blushing.

“I said, ‘Hello’” Twilight repeated.

“Aren’t you going to answer her?” Celestia asked, “Go on, say ‘hello’.”

“H-Hi, Twilight,” Cody said while still blushing.

“Are you okay?” Blaze asked as he noticed Cody blushing.

“I don’t know, daddy,” he said holding his blushing face.

“I know that look on your face, little cuz,” Cadance said in a smooth tone, “Do you like her?”

“It’s unwise keep your feelings to yourself, Cody. Just don’t let them cloud your judgement,” Blaze added.

“Fine. Yes, I like her,” Cody replied.

“Hi, Cadance,” Shining said.

“Hi, Shining!” Cadance replied.

The two of them hugged each other and kissed, then gently broke away.

“Cady, do you like Shining?” Cody asked.

“Yes, we just started dating a few weeks ago,” Cadance replied.

Cody recognized the name ‘Twilight Velvet’ on some of the children’s books he read, and decided to make conversation with her and Night Light.

“Mrs. Sparkle, are you a writer?” Cody asked.

“Yes, I am. Why do you ask?” Velvet said.

“Because I noticed your name on some of the children’s books I have. Did you write them?” said Cody.

“Yes. I’m glad you like them, Cody,” Velvet replied.

“What is your job, Mr. Sparkle?” Cody asked.

“I am an astronomer, somepony who observes and studies the stars, planets, and such. Five years ago, I happened to see something enter the atmosphere. At first, I thought it was a meteor, but it turned out to be a flying machine,” Night Light explained.

“That was the ship my daddy, Uncle Dagger, R5, and myself came here on from a planet called Naboo, where I was born,” Cody replied.

Just then, Cody heard another voice speak up, “You wanted to see me, Princess Celestia and Prince Blaze?”

She was a yellow unicorn filly with a curled and red and yellow bacon streaked mane and tail, moderate cyan eyes, and a cutie mark of a red and yellow shimmering sun. She also wore an red shirt and a teal skirt with her cutie mark on it.

“Yes, Sunset,” Blaze said to the filly.

“Cody, this is my other star student, Sunset Shimmer,” Celestia said.

“Hi, Sunset,” Cody greeted.

“G-Good to m-meet you too, C-Cody,” Sunset replied whilst blushing.

“Now that introductions are finished, I think the young ones should run along.” Celestia said.

“Yes, mommy,” Cody replied, “Come on, girls.”

While his parents were doing royal duties and Twilight’s parents were elsewhere, Cody, Twilight, and Sunset, went over to hang out at his bedroom.

“Okay. So this is my room, and this is my bed,” Cody said. “Wow, it’s huge and… full of stuff,” Twilight said, until she and Sunset immediately noticed all of Cody’s books. “Wow! Are those books yours?” Sunset asked.

“They are,” Cody replied.

“So… you like to read?” Twilight asked.

“Sometimes, but I usually like to play with Cadance,” Cody said.

“Great! We like to read too! A lot!” Twilight said.

“After all, knowledge is usually everything!” Sunset added.

“Wow! You two are really smart, perhaps the smartest fillies I’ve ever met,” Cody said.

“Well, thanks,” Twilight blushed.

“Is it okay if we ask you some questions?” Sunset asked.

“Sure,” Cody said. “Besides, you’re always looking for knowledge, and I’m liking you two as my new friends already.”

Twilight and Sunset blushed again, considering the fact that they didn’t have many friends apart from each other.

“Thanks. I… I like you too, Cody,” Twilight replied.

“So do I,” Sunset added.

“Twilight? Sunset? Do you want to be my friends?” Cody asked.

“Sure,” Twilight and Sunset replied in unison, and then they did their question session while having a bowl of ice cream, and then they played a board game for fun, and read a few books.

All of a sudden, Padme flew in to the lounge and came over to Cody.

“Aaahhh! A snake with wings!” Twilight screamed.

“Is that an aviserpen?” Sunset asked.

“Yes, her name is Padme and she’s my pet,” Cody replied, “You don’t need to be afraid of her, Twilight.”

After reading in his room, the three friends were playing ‘Starfighter Pilot’ in the garden.

“Royal Squadron, we’ve got droid fighters inbound. Pick your targets,” Cody said.

The three of them, along with R5 were making shooting and flying noises as they kept playing their game.

“We got them,” Twilight said.

“Wait, we got new enemies inbound,” Sunset replied.

“They’re TIE fighters, let’s get ‘em. Come on, R5,” Cody said.

The kids and droid made flying and shooting noises as they pretended to fly and shoot down makeshift enemy fighters.

“Yes! We got ‘em all!” Sunset said.

“Good going, girls. You can fly in my squadron anytime,” Cody replied.

“This was enjoyable. We should play ‘Starfighter Pilot’ again sometime,” Twilight remarked.

“Come on, girls. Let’s go meet up with Kimono,” Cody said as they left the garden.

Chapter 7: Jedi Training / New Arrivals

A week later, it was time for Cody to begin his Jedi training. He and his father, Blaze, along with R5 were in the castle gardens.

“The Force gives the Jedi and the Sith their power. It’s the energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It also binds the galaxy together,” Blaze said.

“Even the ponies of Equestria?” Cody asked.

“Yes, Equestrian magic is merely an extension of a larger connection to the Force.” Blaze replied, “To embrace that connection, you must concentrate and clear your mind. Feel, don’t think, and trust your instincts.”

“What must I do first?” Cody asked.

“Try moving flower pots around as a start,” Blaze replied.

Cody concentrated on one flower pot and managed to lift it a foot off the ground.

“You must also focus on control,” Blaze said.

Cody gently set the pot on the wall, then did the same with the other pots.

“Very good, Cody. You got them all on the first attempt,” Blaze said.

“When you trained with Master Plo, were you successful the first time too?” Cody asked.

“I wasn’t. It took me three hours for me to get better at control and improve my focus when I was your age,” Blaze replied, “Now let’s see you lift something heavier, like R5.”

With enough concentration and focus, Cody gently lifted R5 a foot off the ground, then gently set him down in another part of the gardens.

“When will I learn to use a lightsaber?” Cody asked.

“Very soon, after you practice Force pushing and pulling. You must also learn patience,” Blaze replied.

Cody nodded and tried to concentrate on a rake, but he failed to do so the first time.

“I suggest you try it again, Cody. Stretch out with your feelings,” Blaze instructed.

Cody stood in place and concentrated, pulled the rake towards him, then he grabbed it. He noticed some weeds throughout the garden and decided to use a Force push on them. Once he concentrated on one set of weeds, Cody used a Force push to uproot them, then he did the same with all the other weeds until he cleared the whole garden.

Blaze noticed his success and said, “Very good practice, Cody. I see you also put your practice to good use, now the gardener doesn’t have to worry about pulling weeds for a few months.”

Soon enough, Dagger came to the garden, then set up a target and he also nullified his blaster.

“Now it’s time for you to learn how to fight with a lightsaber,” Blaze said as he gave Cody one of his lightsabers (the original), “I’ve tuned both of them down for your training.”

“It’s heavier than I thought,” Cody replied.

“With lots of practice, you’ll get used to it,” said Blaze.

Soon enough, Cody was practicing how to duel and was learning Forms I-IV. After two hours of practicing with the forms and dueling, it was time for him to practice deflecting blaster fire.

“It feels lighter now,” Cody said.

“That’s because you’re getting in tune with the blade,” Blaze replied.

Cody held the lightsaber at the ready, he focused and said to himself repeatedly, “The Force is with me and I’m one with the Force.”

Dagger fired in his direction, then he acted on instinct and deflected the blast in a random direction, then deflected and blocked every blast that came afterwards.

“You’ve got the blocking down for the most part, but you shouldn’t just randomly deflect the energy any which way,” Blaze said, “You get to hit the target we gave you.”

Soon enough, Cody kept deflecting every last blast at the target until he scored a perfect bull’s eye. All of a sudden, a starship came towards the mountain base.

“Everything alright, Blaze? You’re a little distant,” Dagger asked.

“I’m fine. I just see a ship coming our way, and it doesn’t look Imperial,” Blaze said as he looked through his electrobinoculars.

Later in the day, some guards came up to Blaze and Dagger saying, “Your highness! Commander! We have more visitors from beyond Equestria, coming from the stars!”

“Find them and escort them to the palace immediately. Celestia and I will deal with them later,” Blaze ordered.

Meanwhile, Cody had finished his first day of Jedi training and was now in the kitchen grabbing a snack. Using the Force, he took out the cookie jar and brought it down to his level, then took out four chocolate chip cookies. After he ate them, Cody placed the jar back in it’s place and walked through the hallway hoping to find Cadance, Kimono, or anypony. Suddenly, he bumped into Blueblood.

“I-I-I’m s-s-sorry, B-Blueblood,” Cody said in a frightened tone.

“You will be. Stay out of my way!” Blueblood replied.

Blueblood then hit Cody with the back of his hand, knocking him down, then he punched him in the face four times, causing him to have a black eye and a bloody nose. He also punched Cody in the stomach twice. Just before Blueblood could even knock him out, Cody stretched out his arms and screamed, “No!” He accidentally used a Force push on Blueblood, sending him into a wall.

Cody got back up, with his arms clutching his stomach, then kept walking through the hallway crying until he reached Cadance’s room where she had just finished her homework.

“Hi, Co..” she tried to say as her eyes widened seeing him in pain, “Cody, what’s the matter?”

“B-B-Blueblood hit me,” Cody replied while crying.

Cody then sat on his cousin’s lap and they hugged each other as he cried into her chest. They stayed like this for five minutes until she gently broke their embrace, she grabbed some tissues and wiped the blood off her chest, then gave some to Cody for him to put in his nose.

“Come on, were telling your mother right away,” Cadance said.

Meanwhile, in the castle throne room, the new arrivals were escorted to meet with Celestia and Blaze. The first was a young man roughly 18 years old, with red hair and green eyes. The second was a brown-skinned woman with short, black hair. The third was a creature with four arms known as a Latero. The fourth was a young female Dathomiri Zabrak, and the fifth was a small, two-legged droid.

Blaze immediately recognized two of their visitors as old acquaintances of his during the Clone War. He then said, “Cal? Cere? Is that you? It’s me, Blaze.”

“Good to see you again, Blaze,” Cere replied.

“These are our friends, Greez Dritus, Nightsister Merrin, and my droid, BD-1,” Cal added, then asked, “What planet is this?”

“Welcome to Equestria. It’s good to meet you too, Greez, Merrin, and BD-1,” Blaze said, “This is my wife, Princess Celestia.”

“Good to meet you all. How did you find our planet?” Celestia said.

“We just set course for Wild Space and happened to find this planet, we’re on the Empire’s hit list and seek sanctuary,” Cere replied.

Just then, Cadance came in the throne room with Cody still crying after his nasty encounter with Blueblood.

“What happened, Cody?” Celestia asked in horror.

“Blueblood hit him in the stomach and in the face,” Cadance answered for him.

Princess Celestia and Prince Blaze were very boiled inside at the moment, how and why would Blueblood want to hurt and pick on their son?

“Anyway, this is our niece and son, Princess Cadance and Prince Cody,” Blaze said keeping his anger contained.

“Good to meet you too, kids,” Cere said.

“It’s nice meeting two more Jedi,” Cadance replied.

“When we find Blueblood, he is so grounded for a month,” Celestia said.

“Pardon me for asking, but who are you talking about?” Cal asked.

“Prince Blueblood is our nephew, he hates off-worlders and he’s hated Cody for all five years of our son’s life,” Celestia replied, “Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to have a word with Blueblood right away.”

“How about we tell you kids a story about our adventure in the past year?” Cere said.

“That ought to lift up Cody’s spirits,” Greez added.

“We’d like that, Master Junda,” Cadance replied.

The crew of the Stinger Mantis told Cadance and Cody the story of their adventure to rebuild the Jedi Order. Cody especially liked hearing about the planets of Zeffo, Bogano, Kashyyyk, and Illum, but he was sad to hear Merrin tell them about the extermination of her people at the hands of General Grievous during the Clone War.

Chapter 9: Cadance's Graduation Party

Three years later

One morning, Cody, who was now eight years old, went into one of the bathrooms and switched Blueblood’s hair gel with guacamole. Then he snuck out and then he inflated a whoopie cushion and stuffed it under his shirt. Once Blueblood and everyone else went to their usual seats for breakfast, Cody levitated the whoopie cushion to Blueblood’s chair.

The moment Blueblood sat down, a loud prolonged fart was heard throughout the dining room. Cody was laughing a little hard, Cadance was too, and she said, “Good one, Cody.”

“Cody! When I get my hands on you, you’ll be sorry!” Blueblood snapped as he pulled out the whoopie cushion he sat on.

“Blueblood! If you lay a hand on Cody, you’re grounded for two months,” Celestia spoke up.

“He switched my hair gel with guacamole, that’s super embarassing,” Blueblood remarked.

“Now you know how Cody feels when you pick on him, so you need to stop bullying him,” Blaze replied.

“Bite me,” Blueblood retorted.

“Today is my graduation day, Cody,” Cadance said.

“Congratulations, Cady,” Cody replied as he hugged her.

“My friends, Misty Sky, Diamond Rose, Lemony Gem, Fleur de Lis, and my boyfriend Shining Armor are also graduating,” Cadance said.

“Will I get to see Flash and Twilight today?” Cody asked hopefully and blushed.

“I think so,” Cadance replied.

The hours passed and the graduation ceremony at Canterlot Academy was in session. The head-stallion spoke into the mic, “As your principal, I’ve watched you all start out here at Canterlot Academy and as the years followed you’ve all grown strong and are ready to spread your wings and soar off into the next stage of your lives.” The students and the audience applauded on her words, “And now we shall begin the ceremony. When your name is called, you will come up and receive your diploma. Misty Sky.”

Misty stood up and walked up the stage as she could hear her family applaud and cheer for her, “Way to go, big sis!” Flash cheered.

“Princess Cadance.”

Cadance stood up and heard a large round of applause from her aunt and uncle, her cousin, Commander Dagger, and even R5 gave some cheerful beeps and whistles. She walked on stage and accepted her diploma.

“Shining Armor.”

He stood up and heard a large round of applause from both his parents, his aunt and uncle, his little sister, and a little dragon named Spike as he walked on stage, accepted his diploma.

After the ceremony, the newly graduated students were being congratulated by their families and friends.

“Cody!” Flash exclaimed.

“Hi, Flash!” Cody replied.

The two of them did a chest bump. It wasn’t long before Cody met up with the Sparkle family.

“Hi, Cody!” Twilight said.

“H-Hi, Twilight,” Cody replied whilst blushing, “I wasn’t sure if I’d see you today, given how often you’re reading and studying.”

“It took a bit of convincing for Twilight to get her head out of the books,” Velvet told Cody.

Soon enough, Cody and his family, together with the Sparkle family were celebrating Cadance and Shining Armor’s graduation with a pool party. Cody wore green swim trunks and Twilight wore a magenta one-piece swimsuit. Shining Armor wore swim trunks that were a mix of black and blue, while Cadance wore a light blue bikini. Celestia wore her reddish-pink bikini and Blaze wore his dark red board shorts. Night Light wore gray swim trunks and Velvet wore a crimson red bikini. Even Dagger wore a pair of swim trunks and Raven wore a golden bikini.

Cody and Twilight were splashing each other, while Celestia and Blaze were playing chicken with Velvet and Night Light, and they won, causing Velvet and Night Light to fall underwater. Shining Armor grabbed Cadance from behind and lifted her up, causing her to yelp playfully, then they fell backwards in the water.

“Look at them, just like us when we had our first swim here together,” Celestia said.

“That’s one thing we’ll never forget,” Blaze replied.

Blaze picked up Celestia by her legs and they entered a make-out session, while Night Light did the same thing with his wife. Noticing this, Shining lifted Cadance by her legs and they also engaged in a make-out session. While this happened, Raven was talking with Dagger who was rather nervous, due to him catching her eye and her blushing in his presence.

Later that night, Celestia and Blaze went into their quarters wearing only their robes and undergarments underneath. They sat down on their bed.

“Ready for another night of passion, Tia?” Blaze asked.

“Show me what you’ve got tonight,” Celestia replied.

The two of them began making out, then they undid each other’s robes and undergarments. Celestia cast a soundproofing spell on the room, then they leaned back on the bed and Blaze soon started riding her.

Meanwhile, Shining Armor went into Cadance’s room and she wore a reddish-purple skimpy nightgown sitting on her bed, Cadance signaled him and he sat beside her.

“You said you had something special in mind for me, babe,” Shining asked.

“Yes, Shining. I want to give you something only you can have. My virginity,” Cadance replied as she straddled him.

“It’s about time we consummated, ‘cause if you’re ready for this, I am too,” Shining said.

Cadance cast a soundproofing spell and a temporary anti-pregnancy spell, and also used her magic to undo Shining’s clothes, while he took off her nightgown and panties. The two of them started making out and caressing each other, then Shining flipped Cadance on her back and the room became filled with the sounds of lovemaking.

Fifteen minutes later, Cadance and Shining Armor were panting under the covers with her arm on his chest.

“Shining, thank you for staying the night with me,” Cadance said.

“The pleasure was mine. Can we do this again sometime?” Shining asked.

Cadance nodded and said, “Good night, Shining. I love you.”

“I love you too, Cadance,” Shining replied.

The two shared one last kiss before falling asleep in each other’s embrace.

Two weeks went by and it was summer vacation, Cody was hanging out with Twilight and Sunset. The two fillies met up with their classmates, all of whom were unicorns, a light yellowish gray filly with dark purple eyes and a mane similar to Twilight’s, and wore glasses, along with a red skirt and blue shirt. The others were a white filly with a pink mane and blue eyes, a yellow filly with magenta eyes and a blue mane, a sky blue filly with a white and blue mane and sapphire blue eyes, and finally a golden colt wearing glasses with cyan eyes and an orange mane.

“Cody, we’d like you to meet our classmates, Minuette, Lemon Hearts, Twinkleshine, and Moondancer,” Twilight said.

“This is my younger brother, Sunburst,” Sunset added.

“Good to meet you all,” Cody greeted.

After hours of hanging out with his friends, Cody was called back to the castle by his parents. Twilight went home to her family, while Sunset and Sunburst went to their guest tower. Moondancer and the other three began thinking about Cody.

“Cody is an absolute dream, isn’t he wonderful?” Lemon Hearts said.

“Just about any filly would be lucky to have him as their future boyfriend,” Twinkleshine added.

“It only makes sense that he’s a catch due to him being the prince. Wouldn’t you agree, Moondancer?” Minuette asked.

“Yeah. I wouldn’t mind being his princess one day,” Moondancer replied.

In the castle

“Mommy, what’re you and daddy so excited about?” Cody asked.

“Sweetie, I’m pregnant,” Celestia replied.

“What does that mean?” Cody asked.

“It means, you’re gonna be a big brother,” Blaze replied.

“Cadance, you’re gonna have another cousin,” Celestia told her.

Excited by the news, Cody and Cadance got into a group hug with Celestia and Blaze.

Ten and a half months later

Celestia had just given birth, the foal was a human/Equestrian hybrid colt with a pony’s tail and ears. He also had his mother’s eyes, as well as blue and green hair, a horn and wings.

“Have you thought of a name for our new son?” Celestia asked.

“I say we name him Rex, after the clone captain who served with Anakin Skywalker,” Blaze replied.

“Cody, meet your new brother, Rex,” Celestia said as she gave the foal to Cody.

Chapter 10: Old Friends and New Friends

Eight years later, Cody was now sixteen years old and he was growing strong in the ways of the Force. Since he graduated from Canterlot Grade School three years ago, Cody was focusing mostly on his Jedi training, sometimes with Cal, as well as lessons from his mother on being a good prince. He was also given his father’s original lightsaber and wore a white Jedi robe. For the past two years now, Cody went on training missions to Tatooine, Dagobah, and even Lothal, often having help in his training from Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi and even salvaging missions with his father and honorary uncle on various Clone War battlefields.

Cody was now on Tatooine practicing the Forms V-VII, the seventh form was the most advanced and aggressive in lightsaber combat. Every time he practiced this form, Cody thought about his family, friends and how much he cares about them, those thoughts motivated him not to give in to anger or hate.

“Very good, Cody. You have managed to control your anger and other negative feelings,” Blaze said.

“Thinking about you, everyone else in my family, and my friends, especially Twilight have really helped me to master Form VII. ‘Cause I love you all too much to think about giving in to the Dark Side,” Cody replied.

“Are you sure it is wise to be teaching your son Forms VI and VII? Because using them can bring one close to the Dark Side if they’re not careful,” Obi-Wan said to Blaze.

“I’m sure. ‘Cause it might be useful to know all the forms of lightsaber combat and use them wisely, that way he can survive any fight, whether he wins or loses,” Blaze explained.

“You make a valid point, Blaze,” Obi-Wan replied.

Soon enough, the suns began to set, then Cody and Blaze were on their way back to the inn at Mos Eisley. As they were walking along, Cody accidentally bumped into a Duro wearing a brown jacket, black pants, and a wide-brimmed hat, as well as rocket boots and detachable breathing tubes, and also carried two LL-30 blaster pistols and gauntlets.

“So sorry, sir,” Cody apologized.

“Watch it, kid,” the Duro replied.

Just then, Cody squinted his eyes and looked back, he then realized that he bumped into a bounty hunter.

“Who are you?” Cody asked.

“Name’s Cad Bane,” the bounty hunter replied.

“I figured it was you, my father told me about how you held the Senate hostage and stole a holocron from the Jedi Temple,” Cody said.

“You were told correct, young Jedi,” Bane replied, “I hear the Empire is paying a million credits for the capture of a Jedi, and I’m hoping to collect.”

“You won’t take us without a fight,” Cody retorted.

“If that’s the way it’s gonna be,” Bane said.

Bane fired his blasters, but Cody and Blaze managed to deflect the blasts in other directions. The bounty hunter activated a flamethrower on his gauntlet, but Cody was able to dodge the flames. Bane drew a beskar vibrosword, then he and Cody clashed blades, which was a shock for him.

“What? How’s this possible?!” Cody asked in shock.

“This blade is pure beskar alloy, which is blaster-proof and also resistant to lightsabers. I came prepared for this,” Bane said.

They kept sword-fighting until Cody used a Force push on Bane, sending him crashing into a wall. The bounty hunter activated his rocket boots and shot up, then dropped down.

“It’ll take more than that to bring me down, young Jedi,” Bane taunted.

“You picked the wrong Jedi to mess with, Bane!” Blaze retorted.

Bane fired at him, but he deflected the blasts and one of them hit Bane in the knee. The bounty hunter used his flamethrower, but Blaze dodged it. Bane activated his whipcord and it wrapped around Blaze’s arms, then flew ahead, knocking down Blaze.

The bounty hunter dove at him, but Blaze rolled off to the side, he then got up behind Bane and pinned him down. As they engaged in a fistfight, Bane grabbed Blaze by the arm and activated his stunners, causing Blaze to scream in pain.

“Bane!” Cody spoke up as he drew his lightsaber and rushed at him.

Cody and Bane clashed blades once more, but then he relieved the bounty hunter of his sword, and Bane took out his pistol, then fired it. Cody deflected, the blasts hitting Bane’s arms, then tied up the bounty hunter with some metal cable he found.

Cody went over to his father and helped him up, then went back to the inn. There, they were seated at a table where a pilot was sitting. He was just three years Blaze’s junior, Blaze recognized the pilot as an old comrade-in-arms from the Clone War.

“Gale Thrace?” Blaze asked.

“It’s been a long time, General,” Gale said.

“No need to be formal anymore, Gale. The war is long past,” Blaze replied.

“Where have you been all these years, Blaze?” Gale asked.

“Living a peaceful life on a remote planet called Equestria in Wild Space. I’m also married to the princess there,” Blaze replied.

“Lucky for you, ‘cause my wife was killed by stormtroopers ten years ago on Lothal, my two sons and I fled until we came here,” Gale said.

“I don’t think Tatooine is the best place you want to be, this planet is a wretched hive of scum and villainy,” Blaze replied.

Meanwhile, at another table, Cody was with Gale’s sons, who were fraternal twins, both of them his age.

“I’m Saladin Thrace, you can call me ‘Sal’,” the first boy said.

“And I’m Buchan Thrace, but you can call me ‘Bucky’,” the other boy added.

“Name’s Cody Ando, good to meet you both,” Cody replied.

“Good to meet you too, Cody,” said Sal.

“Where are you from?” Bucky asked.

“I am from the planet Equestria in Wild Space, and I am next in line for the throne, since my mother is the princess. My father is also training me to be a Jedi,” Cody replied.

“So you’re a prince, that’s nice,” Sal replied.

Cody told his two new friends about Equestria, as well as his life story. The two brothers also told him about their life story on Lothal.

“How’d you two and your father like to come home to Equestria with us? It’s the most peaceful place in the galaxy out of the Empire’s reach,” Cody asked.

“On behalf of both me and my brother, along with my father, we’d like that,” Sal replied.

The next morning, Cody, Blaze, R5, and the Thrace family were en route to the spaceport. Cody realized that today was Twilight’s birthday, and he went to the nearest jewelry shop. Cody bought a necklace with ruby and amethyst pendants, and he paid for it with gemstones. They all boarded the modified Stinger Mantis, equipped with the concussion missiles, dorsal and ventral turrets from the old and totaled Corellian freighter, as well as extra cannons, proton torpedoes, a bigger cargo hold and a cloaking device.

“R5, plot a course for Equestria,” Cody said. R5 beeped in response, once the course was set, they jumped into hyperspace.

Once at Equestria, they landed on the mountain and disembarked, then went back to the castle. There, they were greeted by Celestia, Dagger, Cadance, and Rex.

“Hi, Cody! Welcome home,” Celestia said.

“Hi, mom!” Cody replied as he hugged her.

Just then, Twilight came up to Cody, she was now 18 years old, and she wore a cyan shirt and a purple skirt with her cutie mark on it. She also now had E-cup breasts.

“Cody!” Twilight greeted.

“Hi, Twilight. Happy birthday,” Cody replied as he hugged her.

“Thanks, Cody,” Twilight said.

Cody took out the necklace he bought and gave it to Twilight.

“Is that for me?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, I bought it at a jewelry shop on Tatooine,” Cody replied.

“Thank you, Cody. Can you put it on me, please?” Twilight said.

Cody nodded, then put Twilight’s new necklace on her. They soon went off to enjoy her birthday party.

Chapter 11: Friendship is Magic - Part 1

Two months later

It was a beautiful day in Equestria. Cody was meditating, he took a deep breath through his nose so he could focus.

“I’m one with the Force and the Force is with me,” Cody said repeatedly to himself.

It had been almost half an hour since Cody had been like this, his overall goal was to hear the voices from the Jedi of the past. Sunset was keeping track of the time, she wore a leather jacket over a red-violet shirt with a shimmering sun design on it, and an orange skirt. She also now had E-cup breasts same as Twilight.

“Cody! Sunset!” Twilight spoke up.

Cody slowly turned his head to see none other than Twilight, standing next to him.

“Oh, come on, Twi,” Cody groaned. “Didn’t you notice I was meditating?”

“Sorry, Cody and Sunset, but we’ve got something big to work on,” Twilight said urgently.

“… Now?”

“Now.”

As the three of them stroll down the path, they soon found themselves blocked by the only other friends they had in Canterlot: Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Twinkleshine.

“Hi, Cody!” Lemon Hearts and Minuette greeted flirtatiously in unison.

“There you are, Twilight!” Twinkleshine said, “Moondancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come?”

“Is that today?” Cody asked, smiling. “I almost forgot! Don’t worry, we’ll be there for sure.”

“Oh sorry, girls. Sunset and I have got a lot of studying to catch on,” Twilight replied gently, “Plus, I think Cody is busy with Jedi training all day.”

Cody turned to his friend and crush with a glare.

“Twilight, wait!” Cody called out.

The girls just stood there as Cody dashed after Twilight and Sunset, barely catching up. But clearly, the three friends looked indignant as they watched the three of them disappear.

“Does that pony do anything except study?” Twinkleshine remarked, with a sigh. “I think she’s more interested in books than friends.”

“How does Cody even put up with her?” Lemon Heart added.

The two other unicorns just shrug silently.

“He’s so hot,” Minuette said. The three of them giggled.

Far along the courtyard, Twilight and Sunset busily dashed about the grounds at high speed, with Cody following close behind. They just crossed a bridge when Lyra Heartstrings waved to Twilight and Sunset, but the latter zipped by without noticing. Cody stopped to greet Lyra.

“Hey Lyra,” Cody said, quickly. “Sorry, can’t talk. Need to stop Twilight from skipping another party; can you tell the others we’re going to be late? Great, see ya!”

Cody took off at high speed once more, nearly blowing Lyra and the pony beside her away with a huge gust of wind, disappearing into the distance, then Lyra just swooned. It wasn’t long before he finally caught up to Twilight and Sunset, running beside them and not exactly happy.

“I know I’ve heard the Elements of Harmony,” She said aloud.

Cody rolled his eyes, as they continue to run back towards a tall, golden tower representing both her home and her research lab. Sadly, his words fell on deaf ears the moment they arrived at the entrance. Since Twilight was so determined to uncover what she searched for, she didn’t know until too late that Spike, now thirteen by human and pony standards, was making his way out of the tower with a package in his claws. She bashed him out of the way the instant she opened the front door. Spike also wore blue pants with a notch in the back for his tail.

“Ow!” Spike groaned.

Cody had rushed past Twilight and Sunset, then noticed Spike rubbing his head from the pain. Nonetheless, Cody helped him to his feet.

“You alright, little buddy?” Cody asked, concerned.

“Yeah, I’m good,” Spike answered.

“Spike! Spi-ike!” Twilight called. “Spike?”

She climbed up the steps to the research department of her home, not realizing she almost ran over her number one assistant, who only groaned in response.

“Down here! Thanks for asking!” Cody called out, in frustration.

“There you are!” Twilight called out. “Quick, find me that old copy of Predictions and Prophecies.”

It was then Twilight eventually noticed, while Cody and Spike climbed the stairs, that a bashed package was stuck to the end of Spike’s tail.

“What’s that for?” She asked.

“It was a gift for Moondancer, but…”

Spike yelped as the gift was set aside, as Cody looked down.

“Oh, how cute… You bought her a teddy bear.” Cody said.

“Well, giving it away mostly… Considering I’ve grown out of it,” Spike replied.

“Oh boys, you know we don’t have time for that sort of thing,” Twilight frowned.

“When exactly do we ever have time for anything?” Cody asked. “You’ve been cooped up in this library since last week, you work too much. Even I take a break from Jedi training when necessary.”

“Exactly, we’re on a break!” Spike added.

Twilight just ignored the two, as she used her magic, a pale, light grayish orchid aura, summoning a number of books before her, quickly looking them over one by one.

“No, no, no… No, no, no!”

Twilight grunted in frustration, seeing none of these titles showed the information she needed. Cody rolled his eyes, sighing while shaking his head.

“Spike!”

Spike just sighed, as he effortlessly heads toward another tall ladder, scanning another bookshelf before grabbing the book with ease.

Cody and Sunset caught something in their sight, and saw a book under a stool. He lowered himself, reached under the stool, and pulled out the book. Sunset then read the cover out loud, “Perfection: The Impossible Pursuit.”

“Twilight! This book has to go back to the Canterlot library by noon in three days!” Sunset said.

Neither Twilight nor Spike heard them, Cody turned to Sunset and asked, “Sunset, can you please take this book back to the library?”

“Right away, Cody,” Sunset replied as she dashed off to the library.

“It’s over here!” Spike called out, the book in his arms.

Just then, the book and the dragon were pulled towards Twilight. Cody noticed Spike quickly plummeting towards the floor and rushed forward catching Spike with the Force before he hit the floor.

“Ah! Elements, Elements…” Twilight said aloud, searching the pages.

“Do you not even care that poor Spike almost face-planted on the ground?” Cody asked, in disbelief.

Once again, Twilight refused to acknowledge his question. She skimmed over the contents of the book, in deep concentration.

“E… E… E… Aha! Elements of Harmony, see: Mare in the Moon?”

Spike and Cody just sighed. Not only was their day-off ruined, now they were left cleaning up Twilight’s mess… Again. As a matter of fact, this wasn’t the first time she left the two boys on cleaning duty, specifically putting the books back in their proper place. The glares on their faces showed just how annoyed they were about it.

“Mare in the Moon?” Spike pondered.

“Mare… Mare… Aha!” Twilight exclaimed, finding what she was looking for.

“The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal!”

“Spike, Cody! Do you know what this means?” Twilight asked.

Cody’s eyes widened as if he knew who they were talking about, “It means my aunt will return tonight,” he muttered.

Of course, Spike was fighting not to lose balance on Cody’s shoulders as the two tried to balance themselves on a dangerously wobbling ladder. Cody tried to keep the ladder steady, but the number of books and Spike’s own wobbling made the task very difficult.

“No… Whoa! OW!”

Spike tumbled once more, but this time Twilight caught him in her magic with ease. Cody just looked from atop the ladder, relieved that Spike was alright but turned towards Twilight rather glumly.

“We’re not going to Moondancer’s party, are we?” He asked, in a bored tone.

“Take a note please, to the Princess,” Twilight asked Spike.

“Okie-dokie!” Spike said.

He grabbed a quill and some paper and got ready to write. Suffice to say, Spike had gotten good at writing as fast as Twilight could speak. Cody could do the same, but his penmanship was rather… Sub-par.

“My dearest teacher,” Twilight began, pacing about the room. “My continuing studies of pony magic have led me to discover that we are on the precipice of disaster!”

“Hold on,” Spike interrupts.

While Spike was a fast writer, sometimes Twilight had a tendency of using words far too… Complex for his caliber.

“Preci… Preci…”

“Threshold,” Twilight proposed instead.

“Threh…”

“Cody, are you going to help him out?” Twilight asked, annoyed.

“You could say please,” Cody points out.

“Uh brink?” Twilight proposed.

Spike was still struggling until Twilight grunted impatiently.

“Ugh, that something really bad is about to happen!”

That was more than enough for Spike, as he continued writing along.

“For you see, the mythical ‘Mare in the Moon’ is in fact ‘Nightmare Moon’, and she’s about to return to Equestria, and bring with her eternal night! Something must be done to make sure that this terrible prophecy does not come true. I await your quick response. Your faithful student Twilight Sparkle.” she said.

“Twilight Sparkle,” Spike replied slowly. “Got it!”

“Great! Send it!” Twilight replied excitedly.

“Now?”

“Of course!”

Spike was about to send it when he realized something important.

“Uh, I dunno, Twilight,” Spike replied, holding the letter. “Princess Celestia’s a little busy getting ready for the Summer Sun Celebration. And it’s like, the day after tomorrow.”

“That’s just it, Spike,” Twilight pointed out, in his face. “The day after tomorrow is the thousandth year of the Summer Sun Celebration! It’s imperative that the Princess is told right away!”

“Impera… Impera…”

“Important!” Twilight bellowed.

“Whoa!” Spike exclaimed.

The little dragon tumbled backwards toward a bookshelf. Luckily, Cody caught caught him with the Force before the impact. Spike sighed in relief, turning toward Cody.

“Thanks man.”

Cody smiled with a nod, before turning back to Twilight and regained his frown.

“You really need to take it easy, Twilight,” Cody suggests. “Let’s just calm down, think this over for a sec…”

“NOW!”

“Okay, okay!” Spike retorted.

Taking a deep breath, Spike blew a green flame over the letter as it magically disappeared into the sky.

“There, it’s on its way. But I wouldn’t hold your breath…”

“Oh, I’m not worried, Spike,” Twilight replied, confidently. “The Princess trusts me completely. In all my years she’s been my mentor, she’s never once doubted me.”

“Mom trusts me too, so does my father. You know Twi, there’s more to life than studying all the time,” Cody pointed out.

BELCH!

All of a sudden, Spike let out a loud belch and another letter magically appeared before them.

“See?” Twilight replied with a smile. “I knew she would want to take immediate action.”

“My dearest, most faithful student, Twilight Sparkle,” Spike read, mimicking a regal tone. “You know that I value your diligence and that I trust you completely…”

“Mm-hm!” Twilight nodded smugly, as Cody rolled his eyes beside her.

“… but you simply must stop reading those dusty old books!” Spike finished.

Twilight gasped, as Cody chuckled to himself.

“Called it.” He said.

Soon enough, Cody, Twilight, Spike, and R5 were on a flying chariot pulled by two strong royal Pegasus pony guards. Behind them was another chariot carrying Sunset, the Thrace brothers, and Rex. The two guards were assigned to carry them towards their mission above the clouds. Cody clearly enjoyed the ride, while Twilight kept pouting while leaning over the edge of the chariot. Along the way, Spike continued to read the letter Celestia sent.

“My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony’s life than studying, so I’m sending you and Cody to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year’s location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete… Make some friends!”

Twilight sighed to herself, not looking forward to the mission at all. Mainly, the second half. Cody was much more enthusiastic.

“Well, under the circumstances,” Cody spoke to Twilight. “I always said wanted to get out of Canterlot. I could use a nice change of scenery myself, aside from my time on Lothal, Dagobah or Tatooine.”

“True,” Spike added. “Look on the bright side, Twilight. The Princess arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn’t that make you happy?”

“Yes, yes it does,” Twilight said, now smiling. “You know why? Because I’m right! We’ll check on the preparations as fast as we can, then get to the library to find some proof of Nightmare Moon’s return.”

“Then… When will you make friends, like the Princess said?” Spike asked.

“She said to check on the preparations,” Twilight retorted. “I’m her student, and I’ll do my royal duty, but the fate of Equestria does not rest on me, or us, making friends.”

As they talked, the chariot descended into what appears to be an open street right in the middle of the town called ‘Ponyville’.

“This is my royal duty too, since Mom asked you to accompany me in checking on the preparations,” Cody pointed out.

Cody didn’t say another word when he heard the two royal guards give a whinny.

“Thank you, sirs,” Twilight replied.

“Thanks for the smooth ride, fellas,” Cody added, taking out a bag of gems, “Here’s some gems for the road back, buy yourself something nice.”

The two stallions huffed in appreciation, as Cody, Twilight, R5, and Spike scanned about the town. Sunset, Rex and the Thrace brothers followed them. Just then, a particularly pink pony with cotton candy style mane and tail, with balloons for a cutie mark on her shoulders, approached them. The mare also had F-cup breasts and wore a white shirt with short blue sleeves and a pink heart in the center of the shirt, and a dark pink skirt.

“Maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about,” Spike suggested. “Come on, Twilight, just try!”

“Sure, go ahead!” Cody added, “Some pony came to greet us, it be rude if we didn’t say hello.”

Twilight noticed the pink pony standing in front of her, trying her best to smile.

“Um… Hello?” She said, slowly.

“I’m Cody Ando,” Cody introduced himself. “And you are?”

GASP!

The pink pony gasped in utter surprise, before zipping away at top speed. If Twilight and Cody hadn’t ducked, she’d have knocked them over.

“Well, that was interesting all right,” Twilight said, unamused.

“Random too,” Cody added, nodding.

Eventually, the group walked through an entire crop of Apple trees before eventually winding upon a large farm. Spike proceeds to take out the long checklist and began reading it off.

“Summer Sun Celebration official overseer’s checklist,” Spike read aloud. “Number One – Banquet Preparations: Sweet Apple Acres.”

“YEEHAW!”

The group turns noticing an orange pony, with a blonde mane and tail tied into ponytails. She also had a brown Stetson hat on her head and a cutie mark of three apples on her shoulders, along with a white collared shirt with green shading near the collar underneath an unbuttoned red checkered shirt and daisy duke shorts. She also had an F-cup rack. The mare proceeds to knock apples from a tree, using her legs and front-kicking the tree with incredible strength.

Sal was enamored by her looks, as well as her strength and said, “What a woman!”

“Let’s get this over with,” Twilight sighed.

They made their way towards the orange pony, who was admiring her work, all the apples she bucked neatly stacked in barrels.

“Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle—”

Just then, Twilight was caught off-guard as the orange pony began to roughly shake her hand.

“Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight,” The orange pony greets, with a thick country accent. “A pleasure makin’ your acquaintance. I’m Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin’ new friends!”

“Good to meet you, Applejack,” Cody added, trying to introduce himself. “I’m Cody Ando, and this is my little brother, Rex and my droid, R5-G7.”

“Uh...S-Saladin Thrace, you can call me Sal, and this is my brother, Bucky,” Sal said whilst blushing.

“Friends?” Twilight replied. “Actually, I… Er… We…”

“So, what can I do y’all for?” Applejack asked.

Twilight’s hand still shook about, so Cody had to grab it to make her stop. Spike just snickered until Twilight glared at him, before clearing her throat.

“Well, we are in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration,” Twilight explained.

“And, from what we understand, you’re in charge of the food?” Cody finished.

“We sure as sugar are!” Applejack said, proudly. “Would you care to sample some?”

“Well, I am a little hungry,” Cody smiled.

“As long as it doesn’t take too long,” Twilight added.

Cody turned to Twilight, glaring at her. But before either could say anything, they heard a triangle ring.

“Soup’s on, every pony!” Applejack called out.

“Soup?” Cody asked.

Suddenly, they heard a loud thumping as Cody, Twilight, R5, Spike, and the others were whisked away by a huge mass of ponies and brought before a round table with a green checked colored cloth. All three felt rather frazzled, until Applejack sat nearby.

“Now, why don’t I introduce y’all to the Apple Family?” Applejack proposed.

“Thanks, but we really need to hurry—” Twilight began.

“This here is Apple Fritter—” Applejack began

She proceeds to introduce each family member, who each brought an apple treat to the table.

“—Apple Bumpkin, Red Gala, Red Delicous, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp...”

Applejack took a deep breath to regain some air.

“… Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, my parents, Bright Mac and Buttercup, and Granny Smith.”

Big Mac wore a plain white T-shirt, knee-length jean shorts, a brown belt, and a bright red jacket with a brown collar that had two green apple symbols. Bright Mac wore similar attire, only with a green jacket and white collar, while Buttercup wore a yellow flannel shirt and a Jean skirt.

On the last name, the trio turns to an elderly pony sleeping on a rocking chair. She had a light gray mane and a light lime green coat. She wore an orange scarf with white lacing around the edges with red apples for the design, as well as jeans and a yellow shirt. On her shoulders and imprinted on her jeans is a cutie mark resembling a pie. This was Granny Smith, who unbeknownst to Twilight, Cody, and the others is the matriarch of the Apple Family… And more.

“Up and at ‘em, Granny Smith, we got guests!” Applejack called out.

The elderly pony woke from her slumber with a loud snort.

“Wha…? Soup’s on?” She retorted. “I’m up, and here I come, I’m comin’…”

As Granny Smith slowly joins the family, her ankles cracking with each step, Applejack turns over to the family as they surround the three newcomers. It was then Cody noticed a green apple shoved into Twilight’s mouth, making him chuckle a bit.

“Why, I’d say you’re already part of the family,” Applejack declared.

Storm and Spike both smiled widely and happily, even began to speak to several of the Apple Family. Twilight, meanwhile, spat the now chewed apple from her mouth and gave a nervous laugh.

“Okay, well,” She replied slowly. “I can see the food situation has been handled. So, we’ll be on our way…”

Twilight had just turned to leave when a small yellow filly with a red mane and big pink bow, and wearing a light green shirt, and blue jean shorts walk shyly up to them. Cody and Rex remembered her name being Apple Bloom.

“Aren’t you gonna say for brunch?” Apple Bloom asked quietly.

She gave Twilight and Cody the cutest little puppy dog eyes any pony had ever seen.

“Aw… How can we say no to that face?” Cody smirked.

In all honesty, he wasn’t in a big hurry to leave. But Twilight, on the other hand…

“Sorry,” Twilight said, trying to minimize the damage. “But we have an awful lot to do…”

Every pony gave a long, disappointed sigh, until Cody stepped up and took the lead.

“Now hold up, every pony,” Cody spoke up. “Pay no mind to what she said. Why we’d be honored to share brunch with you all, as a gesture of friendship.”

The last word he growled quietly towards Twilight Sparkle, as he shot her a glare. Twilight glared back, as the two ended up in a standoff for the next few seconds. They kept their gaze locked, waiting for one of them to crack, until Twilight finally blinked and looked away with a huff.

“… Fine,” Twilight conceded.

Cody smirked in victory, while the Apple family cheered and invited their guests to the table to eat.

A couple hours passed before Twilight and the others finally left. Suffice to say, Spike and Cody felt very satisfied.

“Food’s all taken care of,” Spike said. “Next is the weather.”

“I say all the food was awesome,” Cody replied.

Twilight Sparkle, needless to say, lagged behind the both of them and moaned. Her stomach bulged greatly.

“Ugh…” Twilight groaned, “I ate too much pie…”

“Told you so,” Cody pointed out, “Sampling means taking ‘small’ amounts of everything. But you just had to devour everything you saw. You’ve got the appetite of a Hutt. No offense.”

“None taken,” Twilight said unamused.

Spike examined a few clouds hanging over the sky.

“Hmm… There’s supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds,” Spike pondered.

“Well, she’s not doing a very good job, is she?” Twilight pointed out.

Suddenly, a blue Pegasus pony with a rainbow mane and tail came crashing down on both Cody and Twilight. She also wore a a white T-shirt with a rainbow colored lightning bolt design on it, a dark blue athletic jacket, and light magenta and white workout shorts. It should also be noted there was a cloud shooting a rainbow-colored lightning bolt cutie mark along her shoulders. The initial impact sent Twilight and Cody flying into a giant patch of mud. They moaned angrily, coated badly in mud. The blue pony just laughed sheepishly.

“Uh… ‘scuse me?” She replied.

As the Pegasus hovered about, Cody and Twilight both gave a death glare while she just laughed.

“Lemme help you,” The blue pony offered.

She grabs a nearby rain cloud and made it downpour with her hooves hopping on the cloud. The rainwater soaked the two of them, while the blue pony, from above the cloud, laughed sheepishly once more.

“Oops, I guess I over did it,” She remarked.

“Oh, you don’t say,” Cody retorted. “Might as well just throw us in a lake.”

“Um, uh, how about this? My very own patented Rain-Bow Dry!”

She created a large wind tunnel around the two of them, drying them both off quickly.

“No, no. Don’t thank me,” The blue pony replied, before facing the two. “You’re quite welcome.”

It was then the Pegasus saw that her trick worked a little too well. While Twilight was dry, her mane and tail were now frizzy and poofy. Cody’s hair resembled a disco style, while Twilight was in no better condition. The sight was too much, and both the pegasus, Spike, and the Thrace brothers burst out laughing, falling onto their backs. Sal rolled over until he was accidentally on top of the mare. Cody and Twilight just stood and glare.

“Let me guess,” Twilight retorted. “You’re Rainbow Dash.”

The Pegasus, hearing her name, stopped laughing and quickly got up, knocking Spike aside.

“The one and only. Why, you’ve heard of me?”

“I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear,” Twilight remarked with a sigh. “I’m Twilight Sparkle and this here is Cody Ando, and the Princess sent us to check on the weather.”

Suffice to say, Rainbow Dash had made herself comfortable on a cloud above them. She didn’t seem the least bit motivated to actually do the job.

“Yeah, yeah, that’ll be a snap,” Rainbow waved off. “I’ll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I’m done practicing.”

“Practicing for what?” Twilight asked.

“The Wonderbolts!” Rainbow Dash said, excitedly.

She motions toward a nearby poster showing what appears to be a bunch of Pegasus ponies dressed in flight suits, which feature a shade of gold and aquamarine along with a ‘winged bolt’ logo.

“They’re gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I’m gonna show ‘em my stuff!”

“The… Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked, with a smirk.

“Yep!”

“The most talented flyers in all of Equestria?”

“That’s them!”

“Pfft! Please! They’d never accept a Pegasus who can’t even keep the sky clear for one measly day.” Twilight said.

“Or crash lands into others!” Cody added.

When the two friends started talking, Rainbow Dash was very cross over their choice of words.

“Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!” Rainbow retorted.

“Prove it!” Twilight and Cody challenged.

The latter pulled out a stopwatch and the moment he pushed the button, Rainbow zoomed high into the sky, bucking off the remaining clouds in a rapid session. Both Cody and Twilight were agape, same with Sal and Bucky, as Rainbow returned with a whoosh.

“Loop-de-loop around, and wham!” Rainbow Dash said, finishing up. “What’d I say? Ten… Seconds… Flat. I’d never leave Ponyville hanging.”

Twilight, Cody, and Spike stared with their jaws dropped.

“You should see the looks on your faces,” Rainbow laughed. “Ha! You’re a laugh, Twilight Sparkle. You too, Cody Ando! I can’t wait to hang out some more.”

By the time Cody shook himself out of shock, Rainbow Dash zoomed away.

“Maybe don’t slam us into the ground next time, and we’re good!” Cody called out.

“Wow, she’s amazing!” Spike said, with a laugh.

“… Yeah, you’re right,” Cody admitted.

“Whoa, now that’s a girl with a need for speed,” Sal said.

It was then Cody turned and noticed Spike playing with Twilight’s still puffy mane. Twilight growled at the fact her mane was still a mess when she felt two eyes watching her. With a roll of her eyes, she turns to Cody.

“What?!”

“You look cute with a frizzy mane,” Cody said.

Twilight sent a heated glare towards her friend, before walking off. Cody, on the other hand, just smiled.

“I meant what I said,” He replied, softly.

Their next leg of the trip lead the quintet, plus R5, into a large building with a round dome. It was apparently supposed to be where the main ceremony would take place later tonight.

“Decorations,” Spike said, in awe. “Beautiful…”

“Yes, the décor is coming along nicely,” Twilight nodded. “This ought’a be quick. I’ll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed.”

“Not the décor,” Spike said, clearly dazed. “Her!”

Cody and Twilight turn ahead and before their eyes was a marshmallow-coated unicorn, with a beautiful curled dark purple mane and tail, as well as a G-cup rack. She wore a pale blue shirt, a dark purple belt, and a purple skirt, along her shoulders and skirt appear to be three blue gemstones on each side. She was apparently deep in thought, shuffling through some ribbons with her magic.

“No, no, no, oh!” She exclaimed. “Goodness no.”

“How are my spines?” Spike asked, worried. “Are they straight?”

“You’re fine, little buddy,” Cody said, patting the dragon’s back.

Twilight just rolled her eyes, before stepping forward.

“Good afternoon—” Twilight tried to address.

However, the other unicorn seemed far too focused to acknowledge the newcomer.

“Just a moment, please!” the unicorn replied, continuing her work. “I’m in the zone, as it were. Oh yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help up-AAAH! Oh, my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!”

Puzzled, Twilight looked up at her mane. Cody’s eyes were already locked onto hers, after Rarity said that. He had studied Prench back in Canterlot Grade School and that was one word he knew.

“Oh, you mean my mane?” Twilight clarified. “Well, it’s a long story. I’m just here to check on the decorations, and then I’ll be out of your hair!”

“Out of my hair?” Rarity exclaimed. “What about your hair?”

Rarity began pushing Twilight out the building from the flank.

“Wait! Where are we going?!” Twilight called out. “Help!”

Cody just casually walked beside her, while Spike was too mesmerized to be of any help.

“I think she’s taking us to that building there,” Cody pointed out. “Is that a boutique?”

“That would be right dear,” Rarity replied. “My humble abode, I own and operate the place myself and it was given to me by my mentor, Snow Pearl. She used to live there.”

“Snow Pearl? She designed my clothes, and modified my father’s Jedi robe and made his swimming trunks,”

It was then Rarity realized something as she pushed Twilight along.

“Oh dear, I’m afraid I didn’t quite catch your name.”

“Name’s Cody Ando, Miss Rarity,” Cody said, “And this is my droid, R5-G7.”

“I’m Saladin Thrace, you can call me Sal, and this is my brother, Bucky,” Sal added.

“Well, it’s lovely to meet you all,” Rarity smiled. “Ah, here we are!”

It wasn’t long before Twilight stood in the center of what was indeed a clothing boutique Cody had visited plenty of boutiques in Canterlot, when the other girls would drag him along for one of their shopping weekends, especially the one owned by Snow Pearl. And of course, being the only guy in the group, guess who carried the bags? But something about this particular boutique carried a certain charm, as Cody looked around. All the while, Rarity shuffled through various outfits for Twilight.

“No, no, uh-uh,” Rarity said to herself. “Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too… Shiny…”

“You call that shiny?” Cody asked.

Just then, Twilight was garbed in some form of cyan-colored dress with a large emerald up front, as Rarity proceeds to tie the back straps, roughly pulling them against Twilight’s chest.

“Now go on, my dears,” She continued. “You were telling me where you’re both from.”

Twilight strained to answer, since the dress was a tad tight from all the tugging, but she did her best.

“I’ve… That is we… Were sent… From Canterlot… To—”

“Huh?” Rarity exclaimed.

Rarity suddenly released the straps, sending Twilight tumbling forward.

“Canterlot!? Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can’t wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I…”

Rarity held Twilight close, though the latter was uncomfortable. Suddenly, Rarity noticed the broach on the dress.

“Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!”

Rarity dashed away, as Twilight used a nearby screen to quickly remove the dress.

“Quick!” Twilight called out. “Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!”

Spike was too dazed, but somehow used his smitten feelings to hover with his tail, as Twilight scooped him up and dashed away. By that point, all six, including R5, were outside the shop and continued their way down the path.

“Wasn’t she wonderful?” Spike asked, out of the blue.

Cody turned to Spike and smirked, he could tell the purple dragon had been lovestruck. He knew that feeling very well.

“Focus, Casanova,” Twilight joked sarcastically, “What’s next on the list?”

“You’re not the only one, Spike. I noticed how Sal looked at Applejack, and possibly Rainbow Dash, too,” Cody remarked, turning to Sal with a smirk.

“What? Applejack is gorgeous, and so hot, Rainbow’s kinda hot too and she’s got a need for speed like I do,” Sal replied.

Spike quickly recomposed himself, before checking the list.

“Oh, uh, music!” He answered. “It’s the last one!”

It was then they heard a multitude of birds singing. Hiding in a bush, they saw all the birds gathered into a large tree and apparently conducted by a yellow pegasus with a soft pink mane and tail, plus a G-cup rack, complete with a butterfly cutie mark on her shoulders. She also wore a white tank top and a light green skirt that had her cutie mark on it. During this mesmerizing rehearsal, something caught her attention.

“Whoa, she’s pretty,” Bucky said enamored by the sight of the pegasus.

“Oh my,” She said, very softly. “Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just a ‘teeny-tiny’ bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one-two-three—”

“Hello!”

Twilight called out at the worst possible time. All the birds were startled and flew away, even the yellow Pegasus gave a frightened yelp before turning around. From the look on her face, Twilight soon realized her mistake.

“Oh my, I’m so sorry,” Twilight apologized. “I didn’t mean to frighten your birds. We’re just here to check up on the music and it’s sounding beautiful.”

“Beautiful like you are,” Bucky muttered.

The yellow pegasus said nothing, but turn away shyly, rubbing her left hand. Cody couldn’t resist a smile; he was always a sucker for shy girls.

“I’m Twilight Sparkle, and this is Cody Ando,” Twilight continued. “What’s your name?”

“Good afternoon,” Cody greeted.

Again, the yellow pegasus said nothing. She seemed to grow more shy with each passing day.

“Um… I’m Fluttershy,” The Pegasus replied.

Of course, her voice was so quiet, even though Cody could barely hear her name. All the same, the name suited her perfectly.

“I’m sorry, what was that?” Twilight asked, unable to hear.

“Um… My name is Fluttershy,” She replied again, more softly.

“Didn’t quite catch that,” Twilight added, feeling awkward.

“I think she said ‘Fluttershy’,” Cody said.

Fluttershy just squeaked as the rest of the birds returned to the tree.

“Well, um, it looks like your birds are back. So, I guess everything’s in order. Keep up the good work.”

Fluttershy only squeaked again. This time, Cody knew it was Twilight who startled her.

“Oookay…” Twilight replied uneasily, turning to Spike, Cody, and R5. “Well, that was easy.”

The moment Spike appeared Fluttershy instantly turned around, wide eyed and smiling.

“A baby dragon!” Fluttershy exclaimed, more audibly.

Her sudden outburst made the birds fly away as she raced towards Spike, bucking Twilight out of the way.

“Oh, I’ve never seen a baby dragon before. He’s sooo cute!”

“Well, well, well…!” Spike smiled.

Twilight glared over being pushed, as Cody went over to help her.

“You alright, Twi?” He asked.

“What do you think?” Twilight grumbled.

“Oh my, he talks!” Fluttershy exclaimed again. “I didn’t know dragons could talk. That’s just so incredibly wonderful, I, I just don’t even know what to say!”

By then, Twilight, Spike, Cody, and the Thrace brothers started walking.

“Well, in that case, we’d better be going,” Twilight said.

The unicorns started walking back to town for the library, when Fluttershy started to follow them.

“Wait, wait! What’s his name?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m Spike,” the dragon replied.

“Hi Spike, I’m Fluttershy.” the yellow pegasus greeted, “Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about?”

“Well, what do you wanna know?” Spike asked.

“Absolutely everything…”

Twilight groaned, as she continued her way towards the library with the rest following close behind.

“Well… I started out as a cute little purple and green egg…” Spike began.

It was sunset, even then Fluttershy and Spike were still in conversation, while Twilight’s mood couldn’t get any more sour. Cody had purposely lagged behind to hear the conversation, even adding his own two bits once in a while. All the while, Fluttershy listened attentively.

“…And that’s the story of my whole entire life!” Spike concluded.

By then, they finally arrived at the front of a grand oak tree that marked the town’s library.

“Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today?” Spike asked.

“Oh, yes, please!” Fluttershy replied happily.

Just then, Spike was startled when Twilight did a fast one eighty.

“I’m so sorry, how did we get here so fast?” Twilight said plainly. “This is where I’m staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep.”

“No, I don’t… WHOA!”

Spike was taken aback again, as Twilight sent him jumping up with her magic and onto the ground with a thud.

“Aww, wook at dat,” Twilight said in baby talk. “He’s so sweepy, he can’t even keep his widdle bawance!”

Cody rolled his eyes, while Spike glared. But somehow, Fluttershy actually believed Twilight.

“Poor thing,” She replied, scooping him up, “You simply must get him to bed…”

Fluttershy opened the door to tuck him in, but Twilight interrupts and shoves Fluttershy out. Cody and the Thrace brothers just watched this entire scenario in complete shock.

“Yes, yes,” Twilight replied quickly, “We’ll get right on that. Well, g-night!”

Twilight then pulls Cody inside, slamming the door behind them.

“Huh, rude much?” Spike pointed out, with a glare.

“I’ll say,” Cody added.

Even in pitch darkness, Cody’s bitter look could be seen in the dark.

“Sorry guys, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we’re running out of time!” Twilight replied.

Once again, Cody groaned and rolled his eyes, “You’re seriously still hung up on all this, Twi? You’ve already sent your letter to the Princess, who I believe wrote back to tell you to, oh I don’t know… Chill out and make some friends!” he said.

“Right,” Twilight added. “I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where’s the light?”

Before Cody could say more, the lights turned on and the quintet found themselves surrounded by numerous ponies. The place itself was heavily decorated. And they all jumped as a honk went off.

“SURPRISE!!!” The ponies shouted, blowing kazoos.

Twilight just groaned, while Spike, Cody, and the Thrace brothers were still in shock.

“SURPRISE!”

Before the trio was the pink pony they just met, before taking off earlier that day.

“Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh-huh-huh?” the pink pony greeted.

“Looks like some pony had her fair share of sugar today,” Cody muttered to himself.

“Very surprised,” Twilight said. “Libraries are supposed to be quiet.”

“Well, that’s silly!” Pinkie Pie answered. “What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y’see, I saw you when you two first got here, remember? You were all “hello” and I was all (GASP), remember? Y’see I’ve never saw you two before and if I’ve never saw you before that meant that you’re both new, ‘cause I know every pony, and I mean every pony in Ponvyille!”

Pinkie also got in the faces of Sal and Bucky as she greeted them, hugging the latter tightly that he blushed from her contact.

“O-kay…” Cody said, uneasily, “Good to meet you, Pinkie. This is my droid, R5-G7.”

Twilight just groaned, as she approached a table with all the cups and sodas for a quick drink.

“And if you’re new,” Pinkie Pie continued. “That meant you haven’t met anyone yet, and if you haven’t met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don’t have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that’s why I went (GASP)! I must throw you a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!”

Cody had a tough time keeping track of what Pinkie Pie said, but soon noticed the five other girls he and Twilight met today. As he went over to converse with them, Twilight seemed to tune them all out and sipped her drink. Suddenly, she lifts her head, turned around, and her cheeks puffed out as her face went deep red.

“Are you all right, sugar cube?” Applejack asked.

Twilight said nothing, as flames erupted from her mane, tail, and her mouth before she rushed off. Once the flames fizzled out, she dashed upstairs without another word.

“Aww, she’s so happy, she’s crying!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

Cody rolled his eyes, as Spike examined the soda bottle Twilight drank from.

“Does that look happy to you?!” Cody said in Pinkie’s face, pointing to Twilight.

“Hot sauce,” Spike read on the label. Cody just sighed with a head shake.

“What is that doing with the soda?” He asked.

Just then Pinkie Pie dumped a large dollop of it atop a cupcake and gobbled it up. Cody and the others made faces.

“Ooh…!” Pinkie Pie remarked, as she ate it. “What?” It’s good!”

“If you say so,” Cody said uneasily, with a face palm.

Losing his appetite, Cody looks up sadly toward the staircase leading to what was apparently Twilight’s bedroom. Rarity noticed his body language and stood beside him.

“You seem worried about Twilight,” Rarity observed. “Why not go check up on her?”

“Eh… I don’t know what good it will do…” Cody said. “Twilight’s not exactly the most social pony.”

“Well, why don’t you tell us more about yourself, sugar cube?” Applejack asked.

“Me? Well, sure! I’m an open book. You can ask me ‘anything’ that pops in your head, while I get to know you girls a bit.”

The girls beckon Cody and the Thrace brothers, along with R5 to join the party as he began to share parts of his life story with them and he also told them about the Clone War, the Force, the Jedi, the Sith, and Equestria’s place in the galaxy. While he had to do his best to make things interesting, seeing the girls intrigued by his story made him feel slightly better. Either way, for the first time in a while, Cody and the Thrace brothers enjoyed themselves.

It was well into the night when he and Spike finally decided to visit Twilight. Twilight groaned from all the noise and loud music downstairs, practically burying her head underneath a large pillow as she sat in her bed. Suddenly, the doors burst open as Cody and Spike came in. The little dragon had a nightshade over his head.

“Hey Twilight!” Spike called out. “Pinkie Pie’s starting ‘Pin the Tail on the Pony’! Wanna play?”

“Yeah, come on down and have some fun,” Cody urged. “I did a singing duet with Rarity, tried some awesome candy from a mare named Bon-Bon, who apparently swooned at me, and just won my first dance contest! And all I had to do was perform the limbo by staying exactly one inch from the ground leaning back. The girls had to pin Rainbow Dash down since she kept demanding a rematch. Yeesh… Not like losing’s the end of the world, you know?”

Twilight, on the other hand, was clearly irritated.

“NO!” Twilight barked. “All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?!”

“It’s the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration,” Spike answered. “Every pony has to stay up, or they’ll miss the Princess raise the sun! You really should lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party!”

“You really should lighten up, Twilight,” Twilight imitated, mockingly. “It is a party!”

Spike just left, while Cody stood on the rails with his arms folded, a disappointed look on his face. Cody finally had enough of her attitude today and decided something had to be said.

“Twilight, in all seriousness, you’re really missing out on all the fun,” Cody states. “Mom did say we were to make friends. I’ve already made five since we’ve been here, and there could be more since every pony here enjoys chatting with me. Spike and I are having a great time, but I really hoped you’d join in. But if you’d rather sit here and pout the whole night, go right ahead. Just don’t ask me to watch.”

Twilight still remained silent, neither saying a word nor turning to him. Cody just sighed, before closing the door, with one last look to her before turning around to join in on the party games. Twilight just stared at the ceiling, hugging her pillow close.

“Ugh, here I thought I’d have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it!” she remarked.

Despite all the frustration, Twilight couldn’t stop remembering the last thing she read.

“Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night.”

“I hope the Princess was right…” Twilight said, worried. “I hope it really is just an old pony tale…”

It wasn’t long before Cody walked back into the room, with Spike on his back.

“C’mon, Twilight!” Spike called out. “It’s time to watch the sunrise!”

Twilight looked toward the moon one last time, the silhouette of Nightmare Moon’s face remained on the surface and several stars shined around it, but nothing seemed to change. She crawled off the bed and found Cody waiting for her. While his face remained stern, he still offered her a hand. Twilight just stares at him before placing her hand on top. Cody smiles approvingly, before escorting her out the library towards the town hall for the ceremony.

The building itself wasn’t particularly large, but somehow it fit every pony who came to see the sunrise, with plenty of room to spare. Twilight was still worried as she stood beside Cody waiting for the ceremony to begin. Just then, Pinkie Pie swooped in from nearby.

“Isn’t this exciting?” She asked, out of the blue. “Are you excited, ‘cause I’m excited, I’ve never been so excited—well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went (GASP) but I mean really, who can top that?”

Twilight just gave Cody a curious, yet annoyed look.

“If you drank five bottles of soda and a bottle of hot sauce, you’d be hyper too,” Cody whispered.

Twilight just rolled her eyes when a cream-colored mare with a whitish mane, tail, a scroll tied in a blue ribbon for a cutie mark, and glasses upon her nose appeared. She also wore a golden blouse under a white suit, and a gray short skirt. This was the Mayor of Ponyville known as Ivory Scroll. Cody had a chance to speak to her during the party, and while she did flirt with him, they did share a friendly chat. As soon as Fluttershy’s birds performed their opening number, she took center stage.

“Fillies and gentlecolts,” She announced proudly. “As Mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration.”

All the ponies cheered proudly, stomping their hooves at the start of the upcoming arty. But while she spoke, Twilight looked up and saw the stars approach the moon and the Mare in the Moon’s silhouette disappeared from the moon’s surface. This made her rather nervous, as the Mayor continued on completely blissfully.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, and the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria…”

“Ready?” Fluttershy asked her birds, who simply nods.

“… Princess Celestia and her husband, Prince Blaze Ando!” Mayor Ivory Scroll announced.

A spotlight appears where the Princess is set to arrive, and Rarity opens the curtains… But she wasn’t there.

“Huh?” Rarity said, shocked.

The rest of the ponies chattered quietly and nervously in the background.

“This can’t be good,” Twilight said.

“Maybe… She’s running a little late?” Spike asked, nervously.

“I don’t know, Spike. I sense the dark side of the Force at work here.” Cody replied.

“Remain calm, every pony,” Ivory Scroll replied, keeping the peace. “There must be a reasonable explanation!”

“Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Is she hiding?”

Rarity searched the area where Celestia and Blaze were supposed to be, but all she could say was, “She’s gone!”

Every pony gasped, the news of Celestia and Blaze’s disappearance hitting them like a boulder to the chest.

“Ooh, she’s good!” Pinkie Pie remarked.

Just then, she gave a great yelp as every pony gasped once more. Only this time, a dark, cloudy mist entered the hall. They all watched fearfully, as the mist slowly took form, morphing into the shape of a tall, dark alicorn in light blue armor, and a bluish-black royal robe with slits on the sides showing off her legs, black arm bracelets and slippers. She also had a G-cup rack.

“Oh no…” Twilight panicked, quietly.

“Nightmare Moon!” Twilight and Cody said, in unison.

Spike was so shocked, he practically fainted. Nightmare Moon laughed menacingly before the ponies surrounding her.

“Oh, my beloved subjects,” She said, boldly. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun-loving faces.”

For the moment, most ponies were afraid to say a word. They did nothing but look at her fearfully. Rainbow Dash, on the other hoof…

“What did you do with our prince and princess?!” She demanded angrily.

Rainbow tried to confront Nightmare Moon herself, only for a certain farm pony to grab her by the tail.

“Whoa there, Nelly…” Applejack said.

Nightmare Moon chuckled at the gesture, but then her expression quickly changed.

“Why, am I not royal enough for you?” She asked angrily. “Don’t you know who I am?”

The dread silence and blank expression on every pony’s faces showed they clearly didn’t. Even Cody himself felt uncomfortable know that no pony else, minus Twilight and himself, knew exactly who she was.

“Ooh, ooh, more guessing games!” Pinkie remarked excitedly. “Um, Hokey Smokes! How about… Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty…”

Pinkie Pie was quickly shushed, as an apple cupcake was shoved down her throat. Suffice to say, Nightmare Moon was furious. She glared angrily, first to Fluttershy, who couldn’t look her in the eye, and eventually turned to Rarity.

“Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?” She demanded. “Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?”

“We did.”

Nightmare Moon turned as Cody stepped forward, followed by Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer.

“And we know who you are,” Twilight said. “You’re the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!”

All the other ponies gasped, knowing that an ancient story they’ve been told as foals and colts was suddenly real, and a once mythical figure now stood before their eyes.

“Well, well, well,” Nightmare Moon said. “Some ponies who remember me. Then you two also know why I’m here.”

“You’re here to… To…” Twilight gulped.

Either she had forgotten, or she was afraid that the next thing she’d say would make it worse for all the town ponies. Either way, she felt a twinge of regret.

“You’re here to snuff out the light forever,” Cody growled. “And bring about eternal darkness…I can tell you’re strong with the Dark Side.”

Nightmare Moon just chuckled, all that was on her mind was that she had successfully made a triumphant return.

“Remember this day, little ponies,” Nightmare Moon declared. “For it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!”

Nightmare Moon laughed manically, as the thunder clashed alongside her. Every pony, especially Twilight and Cody, could only watch in pure horror. Nightmare Moon had returned and the only pony who can stand to her, the princess they all need the most, had vanished. But even after all of that, even after an age old prophecy had been fulfilled, the worst was still to come.

Chapter 12: Friendship is Magic - Part 2

Nightmare Moon cackled amongst the gather of frightened ponies before her. She stood high and mighty, believing she had won over her subjects. The only pony brave enough to speak up was Mayor Ivory Scroll.

“Seize her!” Ivory Scroll shouted. “Only she knows where the princess is!”

A group of Pegasus guards flew toward Nightmare Moon, in an effort to prevent her escape.

“Stand back, you foals!” Nightmare Moon laughed.

Generating gigantic thunderbolts, Nightmare Moon knocks the guards back. Seeing the guards crash upon the grounds, amidst the frightened ponies, made Cody furrow his brow angrily. Without thinking, he charges toward Nightmare Moon.

“Hey! Over here!” Cody shouted.

Cody ran ahead at full speed. He activated his lightsaber, Nightmare Moon shot a beam which Cody was able to block with his lightsaber.

“Ergh…” Applejack groaned.

In the meantime, Applejack had tried to hold Rainbow Dash back. But eventually, the blue pegasus finally broke free, sending Applejack flying backward as Rainbow tried to pursue the newly-returned Mare in the Moon. But the mist proved too fast, disappearing into the night.

“Come back here!” Rainbow panted.

It was then that she allowed Nightmare Moon’s words to sink in, realizing what she meant, “Nighttime? Forever?”

Just then, before Rainbow had more time to think, she spots Twilight Sparkle dashing out the building as fast as her hooves could take her. Cody ran out of the building, “Twilight, wait for me!”

Before Rainbow Dash knew it, she watched them run away at incredible speed as if he had just made a remarkable recovery. This stunned the speedy pegasus, but then remembered her train of thought.

“Where’re they going?” She demanded from above. “Hmph… They know something!”

Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle had just arrived back at the library by the time Cody entered through the doors. She had just put Spike to bed, the baby dragon completely oblivious to the situation as he slept.

“Uh… We gotta stop Nightmare…” Spike said.

But it wasn’t long before the young dragon conked out again, falling fast asleep. Twilight smiled warmly, as she tucked Spike into his basket for the night.

“You’ve been up all night, Spike,” Twilight pointed out, as he slept. “You are a baby dragon after all.”

“You need to get some sleep too, Rex,” Cody said as he put his brother to bed, before turning to his other friend, “Sunset, can you please stay here with Spike and Rex?”

“Of course, Cody,” Sunset replied.

R5 also stayed behind as he was told.

Once she turned off the light, Twilight quickly searched the library, tossing books around. Just then, she heard an ‘OW!’ when she noticed one of the books hit an already stunned Cody in the face. It annoyed him that his so called ‘best friend’ didn’t even ask if he was okay. She just kept going while he rubbed his face, dodging the barrage of books.

Cody used the Force, at the last moment, to stop a book from flying toward him. He drops it on the ground angrily, as he made toward another shelf searching for the book Twilight was desperate to find.

“Elements, elements, elements…” Twilight said frantically. “Ugh! How can we stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony? Cody, can you…?”

Twilight didn’t finish when a certain blue Pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail flew right into Twilight’s face, forcing the unicorn to back away nervously.

“And just what are the Elements of Harmony?” Rainbow demanded. “And how do you and Cody know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you two spies? Whoa!”

Rainbow was pulled back just as Applejack appeared. Cody watched as the farm pony tugged the blue Pegasus away by the tail with her hands, letting her go at a safe distance from the two visitors.

“So much for being friends,” Cody muttered, scratching the back of his neck.

“Simmer down, Sally,” Applejack remarked. “She and Cody are no spies. But they sure knows what’s going on. Don’t you, Twilight? Cody?”

Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity arrived close behind, clearly sharing the same train of thought as their faces showed. Twilight looked at them one by one, hesitant to answer. Cody stood beside her, motioning her to talk.

“I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon,” Twilight explained. “Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don’t know what they are, where to find them; I don’t even know what they do!”

Pinkie Pie merely walked over to a nearby shelf, examining a rather old book.

“’The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide’,” She read aloud.

Hearing the title, Twilight zipped over and pushed her out of the way.

“How did you find that?!” Twilight asked.

“It was under ‘E’,” Pinkie said, in a sing-song voice.

Cody slapped a hand over his face; Twilight felt rather silly as well.

“Of course!” Cody muttered.

“Oh…” Twilight remarked.

Regardless, Twilight Sparkle was quick to recompose herself before reading the contents of the book.

“There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. It is said, the last known location of the five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters.”

It was during this time a mysterious black mist returned, floating as if it were watching the Cody, the Thrace brothers, and the six ponies from outside the window. Having heard enough, the mist zips away unnoticed by the group.

“It is located in what is now—” Twilight read.

“THE EVERFREE FOREST!” Everyone said in unison.

Ominous music is heard, as if the melody rushed into the dark marsh that stood before them. A short time had passed since they read for where to find the castle, where the Elements are said to be secured. But the overall dread remained as the only way to find the castle was to enter the very mysterious, very frightening Everfree Forest.

“So… The only way to find the castle and get the elements is to enter the deepest darkest forest, risk being attacked by monsters, and possibly being hopelessly lost in an endless maze of trees and ravines?” Cody asked, for clarification.

“Yep,” Twilight answered, short and simple.

“… Okay then.”

“Whee!” Pinkie cried eagerly. “Let’s go!”

Pinkie Pie bounced forward to the entrance of the forest when Twilight Sparkle ran in front of her stopping the party pony in her tracks.

“Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but… Cody and I can handle this on our own…”

But Cody shook his head rapidly, mouthing ‘No, we can’t’. But whether Twilight Sparkle saw his lips move or not, at least some ponies wouldn’t be brushed off that easily.

“No can do, sugarcube,” Applejack said firmly. “We sure ain’t lettin’ any friends of ours go into that creepy place alone. We’re stickin’ to you like caramel on a candy apple.”

The rest of the girls agreed with a ‘Hmph’, as they ventured forward. Even Fluttershy, the most nervous of the group, trotted with the group of eager ponies. The only one who didn’t go in with them was Pinkie Pie.

“Especially if there’s candy apples in there,” Pinkie Pie replied.

But her rambling earned some stares from both Twilight Sparkle and Cody.

“What? Those things are good,” Pinkie said.

Twilight Sparkle just sighed heavily, while Cody stifled a chuckle. The young prince had to admit that Pinkie’s wacky sense of humor had grown on him. They wasted no time following the group of ponies close behind, venturing into the deep dark wood in search for the legendary Elements of Harmony.

The trek through the Everfree Forest was quiet… Perhaps too quiet. Apart from a slight breeze brushing against the trees, the forest was as inactive as the starry night sky as the moon cascades over the area. As they walked, Twilight Sparkle turned towards Cody who kept a lookout as if expecting an ambush.

“So… Are you okay?” Twilight asked, breaking the silence.

At first, Cody didn’t answer or didn’t seem to hear her. Course, it was hard to tell from his expression as Twilight tried to observe him. She released a sigh before she pressed on.

“Look… I’m sorry I didn’t ask earlier. It’s just… It’s been overwhelming with all this, you know?” Twilight asked.

“Eh, I’m fine,” Cody shrugged it off. “I’ve had worse.”

Eventually, the two childhood friends managed to catch up with the rest of the group. When things got quiet again, Twilight once more spoke up.

“So, none of you have been in here before?” Twilight asked.

“Ugh, heavens no!” Rarity answered, surveying the marsh. “Just look at it – it’s dreadful!”

“I’m not going to argue with that one,” Cody nodded.

The ponies approached a large cliffside overlooking the entire forest. It was then the dark mist appeared, creeping into the cracks of the ground beneath them.

“And it ain’t natural,” Applejack added. “Folks say it don’t work the same as Equestria.”

“Funny, I’ve been reading about that too,” Cody replied. “Course, I always thought they were just rumors to keep fillies and colts from wandering into the forest.”

As they walked through the dark brush of the wood, he couldn’t help but feel slightly nervous over this whole endeavor. But never once did his belief falter nor his courage waver.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Twilight asked Applejack.

“Nopony knows…” Rainbow said.

The way she lowered her voice, Rainbow Dash made it sound as if she were about to tell a scary ghost story. It was more than enough for Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy to shiver nervously.

“You know why?” Rainbow asked.

“Rainbow, quit it!” Applejack scolded.

The farm pony knew exactly what Rainbow was trying to do, and she did not like it, not one bit.

“’Cause everypony who’s ever come in has never come out!” Rainbow Dash concluded.

The three mares flinched quietly, but Cody grumbled as he stood behind Rainbow.

“Please…” He said confidently. “I’m pretty sure this forest is nothing ‘we’ can’t handle.”

Suddenly, there was a loud crash, as the ground beneath their hooves gave away. Every pony screamed as they slid along the steep slope. Only Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were able to avoid the drop, but saw their friends were in danger.

“Fluttershy! Quick!” Rainbow shouted, swooping down.

“Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!” Fluttershy panicked, before joining Rainbow.

Both Twilight Sparkle and Rarity screamed their lungs out, trying to slow their descent down the slope, which ended at a very large drop off. Cody fought hard, scratching the earth with his feet, but was unable to slow down. Applejack managed to clamp her feet on a root to stop sliding. Rainbow scooped up Pinkie Pie, while Fluttershy grabbed Rarity’s tail slowing her down.

Poor Twilight was losing ground fast and soon dangled over the edge of the cliff. Cody tried to hold on, but part of the cliff he held onto suddenly broke away.

“TWIIIIIIIIII-LIIIIIIIIIIIGGHHHHHHHT!!!” Cody cried, midfall.

“CODY!!!” Twilight cried out, as her grip slipped.

Soon, Cody was falling very quickly, very fast, the ground just inches away. He thought this was the end of him, he said to himself, “I’m never going to see my family again; I should’ve gone to the party with my Canterlot friends, and invited Flash Sentry! All the years growing up with my Jedi training, my loyal companion…”

Just then, Cody’s eyes widened as if he had an epiphany.

“WAIT A MINUTE… I’M SMART!” Cody shouted.

Cody took a deep breath and released a loud, shrill whistle which echoed through the entire forest. Suddenly, a loud screech was heard as a creature was flying rapidly in his direction. This was his loyal pet, Padme the Aviserpen.

“Over here, Padme!” Cody shouted.

Padme screeched again, seeing her owner quickly descending to the ground, flying at a rapid pace. Using her strength, Padme caught Cody in her coils, floating themselves down to safety. Cody released a huge sigh of relief once back on the ground, as Padme landed gracefully on his arm.

“Thanks for the help, girl,” Cody thanked his pet.

Padme gave a soft chittering, rubbing her head against Cody’s cheek. Cody looks back toward the cliff, seeing the others struggling to hold on. But his eyes were on Twilight who was in a precarious situation.

“Hold on!” Applejack called out. “Ah’m a-comin’!”

Applejack let go of the branch, gently making her way towards Twilight. She grabs her arms, preventing the unicorn from falling.

“Applejack! What do I do?” Twilight asked, frightened.

Applejack just held Twilight tightly, before she looked up and saw something. She then turns toward Twilight Sparkle.

“Let go,” Applejack said, plainly.

“Are you crazy?!” Twilight retorted.

“No ah ain’t,” Applejack assured. “Ah promise you’ll be safe.”

But the frightened look on Twilight’s face proved she wasn’t convinced.

“That’s not true!” Twilight protested.

“Now listen here,” Applejack said firmly. “What ah’m sayin’ to yah is the honest truth. Let go, and you’ll be safe.”

Twilight Sparkle hesitated for a moment, before she eventually lets go.

“YAAAAAAAAAH!!!”

Twilight screamed before she felt her fall stop midway. She turns from side to side, realizing both Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy caught her in the air.

“Phew!” Twilight replied, with relief. “WAH!!!”

They dropped suddenly, but soon stabilized their flight again as the two Pegasus ponies tried to bring her down, but they lost their grip. Twilight fell once more until Cody caught her bridal style, she immediately blushed. Rarity and Pinkie Pie were already there.

“Sorry girls,” Fluttershy apologized. “I’m not used to holding anything more than a bunny or two.”

“Thank you, Cody,” Twilight said as she wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled his face.

“She digs me,” Cody said to himself.

Rubbing his front shoulder, Cody follows as the ponies head out. Little did they know, the purple mist swooped about the forest before approaching a creature, its contact made it utter a mighty roar.

“So tell me, Cody,” Rainbow rambled, pointing at Padme. “Is that an aviserpen?”

“Sure is,” Cody answered.

“That is so cool!” Rainbow practically squealed.

“Oh, you must tell me all about her!” Fluttershy spoke excitedly.

“Maybe after this whole adventure is over,” Cody suggested.

It was for the best, as he knew Twilight would keep moving even if there was a chance to talk. As they ventured through the forest, Rainbow couldn’t stop bragging about herself.

“And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, and Cody was caught by Padme,” Rainbow spoke, excitedly. “Whoosh… Me and Fluttershy loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you in the nick of time.”

Twilight looked indignant, or at least ‘tried’ to be. Suffice to same, Cody shared the same thoughts as he grew tired of all the bragging. Even Padme got sick of it, as she chittered in Cody’s ear.

“Get used to it, girl,” Cody said, with a headshake. “She does this… A lot.”

“Yes Rainbow, I was there,” Twilight replied simply, before smiling. “And I’m very grateful, but we gotta—”

Suddenly, to every pony’s surprise, a creature pounced before them. Twilight gasped, as before her eyes stood a hybrid between a lion and a scorpion.

“A MANTICORE!!!” Twilight cried, as it roared. “We’ve gotta get past him!”

The creature tried to attack, with a swipe of his paws. But Rarity gave him a good buck in the face, forcing him to jump back.

“Take that, you ruffian!” Rarity called out confidently.

The manticore responds with a mighty roar, the intense breeze messed up Rarity’s mane, making it poofy and messy.

“My hair!” Rarity cried out, before noticing the Manticore’s glare. “Woop—”

Rarity just barely missed getting swiped, dashing off to the side.

“Wait,” Fluttershy said, softly.

“You say something, Fluttershy?” Cody asked.

Cody managed to dodge the manticore’s attack, then Applejack lands atop the creature.

“YEE-HAW!” Git along, little dogie!” Applejack called out.

Cody watched Applejack ride the beast like a wild bull at a rodeo.

“Wait,” Fluttershy repeated.

But firm as she could, her voice was still too soft no pony could hear her. Cody uses the Force, ready to hurl a massive rock at the monster. But just then, he’s interrupted when he sees Applejack tossed off with a ‘WHOA!’. Sal comically runs around, reaching his hands out trying to catch her.

“Don’t worry A.J., I got you!” Sal shouted.

‘CRASH!’

As the dust settles, Applejack had landed directly on top of Sal, looking like she was straddling him. They immediately blushed at the position they were in and got back up. Her Stetson hat floats softly back onto Applejack’s head as Rainbow Dash flew above them.

“All yours,” Cody said.

“I’m on it!” Rainbow replied, diving towards it.

“Wait!” Fluttershy called out, louder.

Rainbow Dash soared round and round the manticore, trying to distract him. But the monster’s roar blows the Pegasus away, making her scream.

“Rainbow!” Twilight called out.

The beast’s grunt gestures the group toward them, Soon, all the ponies, minus Fluttershy, leapt into battle. Twilight snorts with determination.

The five girls and three boys charge at him at once…

Well ‘four’, since Pinkie bounced toward the manticore…

Anyways, the ponies were just within attacking range until…

“WAIT!!!” Fluttershy called out.

The beast and the ponies stopped charging, though the creature still growled. Fluttershy simply approached the Manticore, who raised its paw to attack. The others flinched nervously, anxiously assuming the worst.

“Shh… It’s okay.” Fluttershy said.

The ponies open their eyes as Fluttershy kindly nuzzled the Manticore’s other front paw. The creature extends it, revealing a very thick thorn in his paw.

“Oh, you poor, poor little baby,” Fluttershy cooed.

“Little?” Rainbow replied, stunned.

“Baby?!” Cody spoke, eyes widen.

The others watch with interest, as the manticore faced the kind yellow Pegasus with a rather sad look.

“Now this might hurt for just a second,” She told him gently.

The Pegasus quickly used her hand to pull the thorn out. The beast roared, scooping Fluttershy towards his mouth quickly.

“Fluttershy!” The others cried out.

But what really made all their jaws drop in shock… The manticore wasn’t going to eat her. Instead, he just licks her, clearly grateful that this pony removed the thorn from his paw, practically purring even. Everyone smiled, as Cody breathed a sigh of relief.

“Aw, you’re just a little ol’ baby kitty, aren’t you?” Fluttershy replied sweetly. “Yes you are, yes you are.”

The manticore continued licking her mane, before setting her down. By then, her pink mane stuck upward like a rock star. Every pony gave her a cheer, as the manticore went on his way. Of all the ponies, Twilight Sparkle was the most impressed.

“How did you know about the thorn?” Twilight asked.

“I didn’t,” Fluttershy replied, as she walked by. “Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.”

Twilight just smiled as Fluttershy moved on, before noticing Cody smiling with his arms folded.

“What’re you smiling about?” Twilight asked.

“Honestly, I’m just amazed she was able to calm him for simply being nice,” Cody replied, “If Fluttershy can calm a manticore, then surely she could calm down a gundark or a rancor.”

Twilight Sparkle shook her head, as the two, plus the Thrace brothers, followed the other ponies deep into the marsh, missing the fact that the thorn shifted back into the mist as it followed them.

The march through the marsh continued for this rag tag group of ponies, plus the three boys. But the forest seemed to go on forever, they felt like they weren’t getting any closer.

“No,” Rarity groan. “My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck!”

All at once, every pony’s vision went black as darkness casted over the forest.

“Well, I didn’t mean that literally.” Rarity said.

“That ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn’t even know it,” Twilight pointed out.

“Don’t you just hate those situations?” Cody remarked.

It was so dark in fact, Rarity bumped right into Twilight Sparkle.

“I didn’t see you there, my apologies,” Rarity remarked.

“Right here… Guh…” Rainbow remarked but bumped into Cody.

“Watch it, will ya?!” Cody snapped.

Rainbow merely growled in annoyance.

“Oh wait,” Applejack paused, raising her hoof. “I think I stepped in somethin’.”

Fluttershy suddenly screamed, but Applejack was indifferent.

“It’s just mud,” Applejack reassured.

Suddenly, there was an ominous growl from one of the trees. Then another, another, and soon, they were all surrounded. On each tree, they seemed to make a scary face at the ponies, plus Cody and the Thrace brothers with large eyes and razor-sharp teeth. They all screamed, while the boys guarded the girls trying to hide their fear toward the growling trees.

“Don’t worry, girls,” Cody said. “We’ll protect—”

Suddenly, they heard Pinkie Pie… Laughing?! Surprised, all the ponies noticed how Pinkie was busily laughing and making goofy faces toward one of the scary trees.

“--you?” Cody finished, confused.

“Pinkie, what are you doing?!” Twilight asked fearfully. “Run!”

“Oh girls, don’t you see?” Pinkie Pie asked.

And all at once, before any pony knew it, Pinkie Pie… Started singing…

Soon, with a little help from her friends, all the scary trees disappeared. The rest of the ponies rolled on their backs, laughing themselves silly. Cody, Sal, and Bucky, especially, were most impressed.

“Where was that all my life?” Cody said. “Sure could have used that lesson when I was younger.”

“Sometimes we learn when we are ready,” Pinkie replied, before zipping away.

Cody looked bugged out for a second, before shaking his head. A giggly grin forms on his face.

“I’ll never understand that pony,” Cody said to himself.

As they continue to laugh and hop merrily on their way, Pinkie Pie came to a sudden stop causing every pony to collide with each other. Before they could say anything, they noticed before their eyes was a wide stream dividing the forest. While it appears rather shallow, the water was actually raging violently.

“How are we gonna cross this?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“Hmm…” Cody muttered, studying the stream. “Too strong to swim across, and no bridge to cross. Guess we can say we’re…”

“Don’t… Even… Say it!” Rainbow warned.

Storm held his tongue and kept silent as the ponies looked on… But only for a few seconds.

“Up a creek without a paddle,” Cody finished.

“YOU!!!” Rainbow shouted.

Before Rainbow could charge at Cody, they suddenly heard crying in the distance. Confused, they turn towards a rather large, yet very lanky sea serpent weeping himself in the middle of the water. His elongated figure wiggling so fast, the rapids were building. They also noted one half of his orange mustaches, which matches his orange hair, looked torn as if it were chopped off.

“What a world,” the serpent sobbed dramatically. “What a world!”

“Excuse me, sir,” Twilight called out, trying to be polite. “Why are you crying?”

“Well, I don’t know,” The serpent replied, facing the seven ponies. “I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid!”

The serpent wailed as he slammed back into the water, creating a massive wave toward the ponies and boys.

“Oh, give me a break,” Rainbow muttered annoyingly.

“That’s what all the fuss is about?” Applejack asked, in disbelief.

Suffice to say, Rarity felt indignant of the situation.

“Why, of course it is!” Rarity replied, stepping forward. “How can you be so insensitive?”

“Rarity actually has a point,” Cody added, in agreement. “Anyone would feel the same if they had to be out in public, only to have a bad or messy mane… Or in this case, a mustache.”

Cody and Rarity walk side by side toward the sorrowful serpent.

“Precisely,” Rarity nodded. “Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales.”

“I know,” Cody nodded. “And that expertly coiffed mane.”

“Oh I know, I know,” The serpent replied, running his fingers through it.

“Your fabulous manicure,” Rarity pressed on.

In the meanwhile, Cody watched her with interest. Course, it was hard to tell if Rarity was genuinely cheering him up or buttering up his vain ego. Either way, he allowed her to keep talking.

“It’s so true!” The serpent answered, looking at his fingers.

“All ruined without your beautiful mustache,” Rarity finished, sympathetically.

“It’s true, I’m hideous!” The serpent cried dramatically.

As over the top as the serpent was acting, Cody too felt sympathetic for him. Something needed to be done to cheer up this poor creature, but ‘how’ to do it was another matter. Luckily, Rarity was already a step ahead of him.

“I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!” She declared.

Before the serpent or Cody could say any further, the determined mare pulled off one of the serpent’s scales, making him yelp.

“What did you do that for?” he asked.

Rarity said nothing and held up her pointer finger as she held the round part of his scale in her hand. The sharp end gleams in the moonlight, as she raised it in the air. The rest of the ponies were stunned, unsure what she was about to do.

“Rarity, what are you—”

SWIPE!!!

Every pony’s eyes shrunk with shock, as the serpent fainted. Fortunately, he neither splashed them with water and neither was he severely hurt. Instead, Rarity’s now long, beautiful tail was cut off, leaving just a short remainder of purple hair. Using her magic, she levitates the cut tail and carefully ties it with the remains of the serpent’s sliced mustache. When he awoke, he saw that his mustaches had been restored… To some degree.

“Oh-hohohoho!” The serpent exclaimed, gleefully. “My mustache. How wonderful.”

“You look smashing,” Rarity said, returning to her friends.

“Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail…” Twilight said sadly.

Rarity looks upon her now short tail sadly yet still smiling.

“Oh. It’s fine, my dear,” Rarity said bravely. “Short tails are in this season. Besides, it’ll grow back.”

“So would the mustache,” Rainbow muttered on the side.

“Good point,” Cody said, hearing Rainbow. “Tell you what: Next time that awesome mane of yours gets a buzz cut, I’ll be sure to remind you, ‘It’ll grow back’. What do you say?”

Rainbow nervously put a hoof on her mane, as the others chuckled to each other.

“Heh, heh… No thanks!” Rainbow replied, chuckling. “I’m good.”

Just then, Twilight Sparkle looks ahead and gasped as the water before them was shallow again.

“We can cross now,” Twilight informed, walking through the water. “Let’s go. Ah!”

Twilight was startled when she found herself upon the hump of the serpent’s elongated body.

“Allow me,” He offered.

And so, the serpent creates a set of hump platforms with his body for all the ponies and boys to cross to the other side.

“Hmm… What a gentleman,” Cody replied, jumping across. “Thank you, good sir.”

One by one, the rest of the ponies jump across and follows Cody and the Thrace brothers as their journey to recover the elements continues.

It wasn’t long, during their travels, when Twilight Sparkle recognized the site which they had been searching for.

“There it is!” Twilight said, excitedly. “The ruins that hold The Elements of Harmony. We made it!”

“Well, what are we waiting for?!” Cody asked, rhetorically.

Twilight and Cody proceed to take off, with the rest of the girls following in hot pursuit.

“Twilight! Boys!” Applejack called out. “Wait for us!”

“We’re almost there!” Twilight called back. “Whoa!”

In her hurry, Twilight Sparkle nearly tumbled down a large gap but managed to hang onto the cliff side preventing herself from falling. Cody took Twilight’s hand and helped her up.

“What’s with you and falling off cliffs today?” Rainbow joked.

“Oh… Shut up!” Cody muttered, annoyed.

“Now what?” Pinkie sighed.

“Duh,” Rainbow remarked, flapping her wings into the air.

“Oh yeah,” Pinkie chuckled.

Taking to the skies, Rainbow searched for the rope holding the boards to the bridge in place. Finding them through the mist, she flies back toward the opposite end intending to tie the bridge together.

“Rainbow…”

A mysterious voice caught the blue Pegasus’ attention, dropping the rope before she could tie it.

“Who’s there?” Rainbow asked.

“Rainbow…”

She stood upon her hoofs and placed her arms in front of herself in case the mysterious figure had malicious intent.

“I ain’t scared of you!” Rainbow said bravely. “Show yourself!”

“We’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria,” The voice spoke, deviously persuasive.

“Who?” Rainbow asked curiously.

“Why, you, of course.”

“Really?! I mean… Oh yeah, me,” Rainbow stuttered. “Hey, uh, you wouldn’t mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? ‘cause I’ve been trying to get into that group for like, ever.”

“No, Rainbow Dash…”

Before Rainbow’s very eyes, three Pegasus ponies, wearing dark blue-and-black flight suits and goggles, appeared before her. While two of the ponies were silent, the leader, a woman, did the talking.

“We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts. We’re the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain.”

The lead pony began to fly around Rainbow Dash, stroking her ego more and more.

“The most magnificent—”

“Yep,” Rainbow agreed.

“Swiftest—”

“Yes.”

“Bravest flyer in all the land.”

“Yes,” Rainbow chuckled. “It’s all true.”

“We need… You,” The leader offered.

“WOOHOO!” Rainbow shouted excitedly. “Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge ‘real’ quick and then we have a deal.”

Rainbow grabbed the rope in her hands, proceeding to tie it to the post. Suddenly, the leader charged next to her, making the blue Pegasus drop the rope.

“No!” She barked. “It’s them or us!”

Rainbow suddenly felt as if she was in a tight spot. On one hoof, Rainbow needed to get the bridge tied so their friends can cross and help find the missing elements. But on the other hand, if she turned down this offer to join a real flight team, word of this will surely get out and Rainbow may never get accepted into ‘any’ flight team. She won’t get another chance if she refused now.

“Rainbow, what’s taking so long?” Twilight called out.

From the other side, the other ponies were waiting for Rainbow Dash to tie the bridge. Cody quickly saw the Shadowbolts and silently pointed them out to Twilight Sparkle.

“Oh no,” Twilight gasped. “Rainbow!”

The Shadowbolt leader’s eyes glowed, creating a thick fog drowning Twilight out.

“Don’t listen to them!” Twilight called out.

“It’s a trick!” Cody added.

But it was all for naught, their cries were muted by the fog. Twilight tried to shout again when Cody raised his hands over his mouth. From the other side, Rainbow was unsure what to do while the mysterious flight team waited for her answer.

“Well?” The leader asked.

Rainbow Dash hesitated for another second, until a decision was finally made.

“You…”

The three Pegasus ponies seemed satisfied with her answer, when she suddenly took the rope to secure the bridge, much to their shock.

“Thank you! For the offer, I mean,” Rainbow clarified. “But I’m afraid I have to say no.”

Rainbow zipped away, as the leader and her two cohorts grit their teeth before flying away. The rest of the ponies cheered as Rainbow Dash flew back to the other side, as they began to cross the bridge.

“See?” Rainbow told Twilight. “I’d never leave my friends hangin’.”

Twilight and the boys just smiled.

It wasn’t long before our heroes found themselves in the ruins of the Castle of the Royal Sisters. As they explored the ancient castle, they pause before a large stone structure, which held several orbs around it. In a way, it reminded the ponies of something out of a planetarium.

“Whoa!” Twilight and Cody gasped, in unison.

“This is all that’s left of my mother’s old castle,” Cody pointed out.

“Come on, Twilight and Cody,” Applejack said. “Isn’t this what you’ve been waitin’ for?”

“The Elements of Harmony,” Twilight said, gapping at the statue.

“The legends are true,” Cody added. “We’ve found them!”

Slowly but surely, Rainbow and Fluttershy brought down the orbs one at a time.

“Careful, careful!” Twilight warned.

But fortunately, all the orbs were set in place before Twilight Sparkle and Cody.

“One, two, three, four… There’s only five!” Pinkie pointed out.

“Where’s the sixth?” Rainbow asked.

“The book said,” Twilight explained. “When the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed.”

“What the hay is that supposed to mean?” Applejack asked curiously.

Twilight and Cody kneel forward and channeled her horn to glow, focusing her magic, while Cody focused with the Force upon the orbs before them.

“Come on now, y’all,” Applejack said, guiding every pony out. “They need to concentrate.”

As Twilight and Cody concentrated, the dark mist soon arrived and encircled the elements, all while they tried to generate a magical spark. Soon, they both open their eyes and witnessed a huge blue cyclone before them. Twilight and Cody gasped, realizing what was happening.

“Aah!” They both shouted.

“Twilight! Cody!” Everyone shouted.

“The Elements!” Twilight shouted.

“We must stop her!” Cody added.

The two friends dove into the funnel of the cyclone, as it magically disappeared along with them. The other five ponies looked around, talking amongst each other.

“Twilight?!” Fluttershy called out. “Cody?”

“What?!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Where did they go?” Rarity asked.

“What happened?” Pinkie asked.

“What’s going on?!” Rainbow Dash finished.

All of them, minus Applejack, dashed about, wondering where their two friends disappeared to.

“Twilight, Cody, where are you?” Applejack asked, worried.

“Look!” Rarity called out.

They turned toward where Rarity was pointing, as a nearby rundown ruin glowed nearby and the Shadowbolts came toward them.

“Come on!” Applejack called.

“Not to worry, girls! Bucky and I will take care of these goons,” Sal said.

Together, all the ponies rushed out as fast as they could to reach their friends.

Meanwhile, the blackish blue mist transported Twilight and Cody toward a new location, the two of them coughed and sputtered from all the dust. Before them was Nightmare Moon herself, laughing evilly over the Elements. Twilight gasped, before she and Cody glared sternly, preparing to charge.

“You’re kidding,” Nightmare mocked. “You’re kidding, right?”

“You wish…” Cody replied.

Twilight just glared, before she and Cody ran toward her and Nightmare Moon came right at them. At the last possible moment, just when her horn were about to make contact, Twilight conjured her magic to instantly vanish and reappear in the middle of the elements. Cody jumped and flipped over Nightmare Moon at high speed, zipping over the Mare in the Moon, before he ran toward the center of the elements besides Twilight.

Slightly woozy, since Twilight wasn’t used to teleportation, she ignited her horn once more trying to generate life back into the elements.

“Just one spark,” She groaned. “Come on, come on!”

“Spark…” Cody grunted. “Spark!”

Nightmare Moon quickly turned back into mist, sending an electric blast propelling them backwards and onto their sides. However, the elements seemingly charged back to life.

“No, no!” Nightmare Moon cried out.

Twilight and Cody smiled triumphantly… Until the charge fizzled out, leaving them agape.

“But… Where’s the sixth element?!” Twilight cried out.

Nightmare Moon laughed sinisterly, lifting herself up, and stomped around the orbs, causing them to shatter into a billion pieces. Twilight and Cody stood in shock, their only weapon against her… Destroyed before their very eyes.

“You little foals!” Nightmare Moon laughed. “Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your precious, or your sun! The nightwill last forever!”

Nightmare Moon cackled evilly, generating a great dark blue storm above her. Twilight and Cody felt that it was all over, their efforts to prevent Nightmare Moon’s take over were in vain. Suddenly, familiar sounds caused them to turn behind, as a group of shadows approached talking over each other.

“Don’t worry, Twilight! We’re here!” Pinkie called out.

“Don’t worry, we’ll be there!” Applejack added.

As they waited for their arrival, something clicked between Twilight and Cody. A special spark suddenly appear in both their eyes. Exchanging looks, they give each other a quick smirk silently realizing what this means. They turned around to face Nightmare Moon, their expressions shifting to fierce confidence.

“You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that?” Twilight challenged, as Cody stood beside her. “Well, you’re wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here.”

As if they rehearsed this moment, all five mares stood around Twilight Sparkle and Cody Ando.

“What?” Nightmare Moon exclaimed.

Before Nightmare Moon’s eyes, several shards suddenly rose from the broken elements, surrounding the mares one by one as Twilight spoke.

“Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of… Honesty! Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of… Kindness! Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of… Laughter! Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of… Generosity! And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart’s desire, represents the spirit of… Loyalty! These five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us.”

“But you still don’t have the sixth element!” Nightmare Moon protested. “The spark didn’t work!”

“But it did!” Twilight corrected, facing the five ponies. “A different kind of spark. I felt it at the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you.”

Twilight smiled, as a single pair of tears escaped her eyes.

“The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all… Were my friends!”

Upon Twilight Sparkle’s epiphany, a light glowed around the unicorn as all eyes watch it descend before her. It did not take long for Twilight Sparkle to realize what it all meant.

“You see, Nightmare Moon,” Twilight continued. “When those Elements are ignited by the… The spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element: The element of… Magic!”

It was then the sixth orb appeared, revealing the sixth element as it descends above Twilight. The shards of the other elements restored themselves, creating special gold necklaces with each element residing in the center. Twilight’s element was more special, a tiara with the element of magic shining triumphantly on her head. Cody smiled proudly, watching the six ponies wielding the elements.

“Cody,” Twilight said. “Ever since I’ve met you, you’ve shown the core values of friendship: Honesty, kindness, laughter, generosity, and loyalty. You’ve shown to me and my friends you understood the magic of friendship long before I ever did.”

“Well said, Twilight. My understanding of the magic of friendship, as well as my connection to the Force, means I represent all six of them!” Cody announced.

A bright light surrounds the ponies, as the six elements converge with Cody in the center of what was raw power.

“Taste the rainbow, Nightmare Moon!!!” Cody shouted.

Using the Force, Cody helps directs the energy, a large and powerful rainbow, toward Nightmare Moon, engulfing her in a multicolored cyclone.

“Nooo!” Nightmare Moon screamed. “Nooo!”

As the rainbow’s power consumed the Mare in the Moon, the elements themselves glowed brighter until Twilight Sparkle opens her eyes, which glowed as well. The brightness consumed them all, filling the entire room with radiance. Eventually, the bright light faded, leaving every pony laying on the ground, clearly spent from the exposure to all that power.

“Ugh, my head,” Rainbow groaned, sitting up.

“Everypony okay?” Applejack asked, as the rest got back on their hooves.

“Oh, thank goodness!” Rarity cried.

All the ponies turned as the fashionista looked behind herself. Apparently, the magic of the elements was so powerful, it restored her beautiful tail to its former glory.

“Why Rarity, it’s so lovely,” Fluttershy pointed out.

“I know!” Rarity said, cuddling her tail. “I’ll never part with it again.”

“No, your necklace,” Fluttershy corrected. “It looks just like your cutie mark.”

Rarity finally noticed her gold necklace, noting how the purple diamond in the center matched her cutie mark swimmingly.

“What? Ohh!” Rarity exclaimed. “So does yours!”

Fluttershy looked upon her own necklace, smiling warmly. All the other ponies acknowledged their new jewelry bestowed upon them by the elements’ power.

“Look at mine! Look at mine!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“Aw yeah!” Rainbow said proudly, admiring her own.

All the ponies ‘oohed’ and ‘awed’ at their elements, as Twilight admired her tiara with a big smile.

“Gee, Twilight!” Applejack spoke. “I thought you two were just spoutin’ a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship.

“Indeed you do…”

A majestic voice draws the group toward the window, as the sun returns, and a warm light enters the castle ruins. As the familiar golden orb of hope and light ignited the dark sky, another made its way before the ponies. And there, standing majestically before them, was Princess Celestia herself, towering before her subjects. All, minus Twilight and Cody, bowed before their mighty ruler. The two friends in question were all too happy to see her again.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight gasped.

“Mom!” Cody added.

The two friends rushed towards her, sharing a warm embrace.

“Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student,” Celestia said proudly, “I knew you could do it. I’m proud of you too, Cody.”

“But… You told me it was all an old pony-tale,” Twilight pointed out.

“I told you and Cody that you needed to make some friends, nothing more,” Celestia corrected.

As the other ponies stood up, minus Fluttershy given her shy nature, Celestia continued as it all became clear for her student, as well as her son.

“I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon’s return, and I knew it was you both who had the magic and power inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart.”

Celestia’s words spoke directly to Twilight Sparkle, given she was the one who not only discovered how her friends represented the elements, but that it was also the will of the Force, that Cody would represent all of them. Twilight turned toward the other ponies, offering a grateful smile.

“Now if only another will as well,” Princess Celestia said.

The ponies and boys turned as Princess Celestia made her way towards what remained of Nightmare Moon, or rather her true form…

“Princess Luna!”

There, sitting upon the remains of now useless pebbles and shards, a lighter blue alicorn, with an even lighter mane and tail, met their gaze. The paleness of her coat and mane a sign she had been drained of her magical power, the alicorn much smaller in size compared to the white-coated Princess Celestia. She gasped upon hearing her name, one she hadn’t heard in so long, as she looked toward Princess Celestia fearfully.

“It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this,” Princess Celestia said. “Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister.”

Every ponies’ jaws dropped upon that startling twist.

“Sister?” Twilight and Rainbow said at once.

“Will you accept my friendship?” Celestia offered, extending a hand.

The other ponies, plus Sal and Bucky, leaned forward with interest, anxiously waiting to see how Luna would answer. Pinkie Pie, however, learned too far forward.

“Whoa!” She called, losing her balance.

After a brief moment, Princess Luna burst into tears and raced to embrace her older sister.

“I’m so sorry!” Luna sobbed. “I missed you so much, big sister!”

Tears formed on the bottom of Celestia’s eyes, holding Luna close.

“I’ve missed you, too,” Princess Celestia said, tearfully,

“Luna, there’s someone I’d like you to meet. Your nephew, Cody Ando,” Celestia finished.

“Good to finally meet you, Aunt Luna,” Cody said, voice breaking.

“Same here, dear nephew,” Luna replied as she hugged him.

That was when Pinkie Pie burst into tears, sobbing… For a few seconds, before blowing her nose.

“Hey, you know what this calls for?” She asked.

“A party!”

It wasn’t long before the six ponies, the three boys, and the two princesses, alongside Prince Blaze returned to Ponyville, as the entire town cheered for the princesses’ and prince’s return, as the celebrations began. Amongst the crowd, Sunset, Spike and Rex appeared giving both Twilight and Cody a warm welcome. Even R5 gave some cheerful whistles and beeps. Princess Luna, unsure about being there, was suddenly approached by two young Pegasus foals presenting her with a beautiful necklace of roses, as she gave Celestia and Blaze a teary smile. All of Ponyville was happy… Except two. Despite their success, Twilight and Cody exchanged sad faces with one another, assuming this is how it all ends.

“Why so glum, my faithful student and my son?” Princess Celestia asked gently. “Are you not happy that your quest is complete, and you can return to your studies in Canterlot, as well as your Jedi training, Cody?”

Exchanging looks once more, Twilight and Cody turned toward their friends, who seemed sad that they were about to leave.

“That’s just it,” Twilight spoke. “Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, we have to leave them.”

“I really don’t want to, Mom,” Cody added. “I’m not sure why, but I somehow feel as if I fit in around here. To be honest I was always wanting to come here and see more of Equestria…” Cody paused before turning toward Twilight Sparkle, looking her straight in the eyes.

“…And also, Twilight and I are a team and we need each other. Wherever Twilight goes, I always want to be by her side no matter what.” Cody finished.

Twilight Sparkle gave Cody a warm hug, as they exchange smiles. Princess Celestia smiled, understandingly.

“Spike take a note please,” She commanded.

On command, a quill and parchment in hand, Spike took notes as Princess Celestia made an announcement before all the ponies in Ponyville; “I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn, Twilight Sparkle and my son, Prince Cody Ando, shall take on a new mission for Equestria. They must continue to study the magic of friendship. They must report to me their findings from their new home in Ponyville.”

“As for Cody, learning the magic of friendship shall be part of his Jedi training,” Blaze finished.

Twilight and Cody smile excitedly, as the rest of the ponies cheered, and their new friends gathered around them for a group hug.

“Oh thank you, Princess Celestia!” Twilight said happily. “We’ll study harder than ever before!”

“Thank you, mom. You too, father,” Cody added.

Cody nodded in agreement, as all of Ponyville cheered once more. As Cody looked around, to all their friends gathered together, he had to admit… What started as a simple research project would evolve into a brand-new adventure. He may not know where their journey will take them, what dangers they may encounter, or how this entire experience will forever affect his life. But come what may, Cody couldn’t wait to get started.

Chapter 13: The Ticket Master

A week after the defeat of Nightmare Moon, it was a beautiful sunny morning at Sweet Apple Acres, as Twilight Sparkle and Cody Ando spent the day helping Applejack and Sal around the farm. They had both been working hard gathering basket after basket of apples gathered from the orchard. Spike was simply enjoying a comfy ride in a pull cart, pulled by Twilight, apparently entertaining himself by separating the fresh apples from the… Not-so-fresh apples.

“No, nope, nope…” Spike muttered, tossing apples from Twilight’s basket.

“Thanks for allowing us to help on the farm today,” Cody thanked.

“Thank you kindly, Twilight and Cody, for helping me and Sal out,” Applejack said. “I bet Big MacIntosh that I could get all these Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. If I win, he’s gonna walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny’s girdles.”

Hearing the silly idea, Cody rolled his eyes as a picture of Big MacIntosh walking around town in one of Granny Smith’s girdles played in his head.

“It’s not funny, AJ. That’ll be super embarrassing for him,” Cody remarked.

“No problem at all, Applejack,” Twilight replied. “I’m glad the goal is lunchtime. All this hard work is making me hungry.”

“I know, right?” Spike asked.

A tossed apple hits Twilight along the head. She turns around with a glare, as Spike smiled apologetically.

“Puh-lease, Spike,” She groaned. “You’ve been lounging in that cart all morning while we worked!”

“Exactly!” Spike said, missing her point. “You four were taking so long, I missed snack-time.”

Twilight was about to retort when her stomach grumbled loudly. She just laughed nervously.

“Eh, I guess we better get some food,” Twilight replied.

In the meantime, Spike kept digging into her basket searching for a good apple.

“Nope,” He mumbled. “Worm… A-ha!”

Spike pulled out a large sparkling, shiny red apple. Twilight could feel her mouth water at the very sight of the fruit in Spike’s claws.

“Oh Spike, that looks delicious,” Twilight said, eager for a bite.

Suddenly, Spike devoured the whole fruit into his mouth much to Twilight’s shock.

“Spike!” She called out, annoyed and disappointed.

“What?” Spike asked, innocently.

“That’s alright. I’ve got another one for you, Twilight,” Cody said as he gave her a bigger red apple.

“Thank you, Cody,” Twilight replied before eating the apple.

Just then, Spike gave out a large belch. Twilight ducked as a green flame left his mouth and a rolled-up scroll appears before the two girls.

“It’s a letter from Princess Celestia,” Twilight gasped.

Spike cleared his throat shortly before opening it.

“Hear ye, hear ye,” He read aloud. “Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria, is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle, plus one guest.”

Applejack and Twilight just smile and gasp excitedly.

“The Grand Galloping Gala! The Grand Galloping Gala!” They cheered.

“Whoo-hoo!” Applejack added.

“Yeah!” Twilight exclaimed.

While the two ponies were hopping about, Spike just looked indignant. He stuck a finger in his mouth until he burped again, as another scroll appears.

“Look, two tickets,” Spike said.

“Wow, great! I’ve never been to the gala. Have you, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“No, and I plan to keep it that way,” Spike said. “I don’t want any of that girly frilly frou-frou nonsense.”

“Anypony can attend the gala, Spike, female or male, so long as they have a ticket like Twilight does.” Cody replied, “But I’m royalty and it’s mandatory for me to be there.”

The next part Cody spoke softly, “Plus, it’s a great opportunity to ask some pony for a date…”

Cody smiled to himself as Twilight Sparkle spoke up.

“Aw, come on Spike,” Twilight said. “A dance would be nice.”

“I’d dance with you, Twilight,” Cody said, up front.

“I’d be happy to share a dance with you while the night is young. You’re my friend after all.” Twilight replied, looking at him.

“Nice?” Applejack said. “It’s a heap good more than just nice. I’ve love to go. Land sakes, if I had an apple stand set up, ponies would be chowin’ our tasty vittles ‘til the cows came home. Do you have any idea how much business I could drum up for Sweet Apple Acres?”

“Hmm?” Cody thought, scratching his chin.

Sure enough, as Applejack spoke, a dream sequence displayed a long line of Canterlot ponies as far as the eye could see. They all came together with bags of bits, more than enough to purchase all the apples and various apple goods the cow pony could sell.

“You could make bank, as the old term goes,” Cody answered.

“Exactly,” Applejack said. “Why, with all that money, we could do a heap of fixin’ up ‘round here. We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big MacIntosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip.”

Visions of run-down items instantly became brand new, a roof that made the whole farmhouse in solid shape and a plow as shiny and clean as a whistle. Then, there was Granny Smith, walking with a stretcher, until ‘POOF!’ her mane is fixed up, her expression is energetic, and with a swish of her newly repaired hip, she starts dancing like a young school filly again.

Cody nodded his head, lost in his thoughts as Applejack continued.

“Why, I’d give my left leg to go to that gala,” Applejack finished.

Twilight and Cody exchanged quick smiles to each other, before nodding with approval.

“Oh, well in that case,” Twilight began. “Would you like to—”

“Huh?” Cody turned before dodging. “Whoa!!!”

Just when Twilight was about to ask Applejack to go with them, a certain blue Pegasus, from out of the blue, crashed upon all three of them. The impact knocked all the apples Sal, Applejack, and Twilight had in their baskets onto the ground..

“Rainbow Dash, do you have anything better to do than dive bombing us?” Sal asked.

“Ugh,” Rainbow groaned.

It didn’t take long for the Pegasus to quickly hop back into the air, while the others were still crouched onto the ground.

“Are we talking about the Grand Galloping Gala?” Rainbow asked.

“Rainbow Dash!” Applejack snapped, rising to her hooves. “You told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples. What were you busy doing? Spyin’?”

“No, I was busy napping,” Rainbow Dash replied.

It was then Cody noticed a pillow and blanket conveniently on a nearby tree branch. How that was there and how they never noticed was beyond him.

“Hmm… Sure you were,” Cody said, rolling his eyes.

“And I just happened to hear that you have an extra ticket?” Rainbow finished.

“Yeah, but—”

“YES!!!” Rainbow cut off Twilight. “This is so awesome. The Wonderbolts perform at the Grand Galloping Gala every year. I can see it now…

“Three… Two… One…” Cody replied.

A picture in her mind showed Rainbow Dash in her moment of glory. A Wonderbolts display was just underway when the audience gasped. Before their very eyes, Rainbow Dash appears from the sky.

“Everyone would be watching the sky,” Rainbow explained, between scenes. “Their eyes riveted on the Wonderbolts, but then in would fly Rainbow Dash!”

Over the cheering crowd, Rainbow Dash performs one of her signature maneuvers before the eyes of the ponies.

“I would draw their attention with my Super Speed Strut,” Rainbow continued. “Then I would mesmerize ‘em with my Fantastic Filly Flash. And for my grand finale, the Buccaneer Blaze! The ponies would go wild!”

In her fantasy, Rainbow Dash performed all those maneuvers perfectly, although the Buccaneer Blaze is not seen. Still, the ponies cheered for her wildly and even the three Wonderbolts’ jaws dropped.

“The Wonderbolts would insist that my signature moves be incorporated into their routine, and then welcome me as their newest member.”

By the end of her fantasy, Rainbow Dash shakes hooves with all three Wonderbolts. Before long, she soon donned her very own Wonderbolt uniform, flying and racing with them into the clear blue sky.

By which time, the thought across Cody’s mind made his eyes roll. True, he supported her dream as much as anyone. Add to the fact that he’d want nothing more than to see her make the team someday. But deep down, he knew she needed some serious work on perfecting those ‘maneuvers’ of hers. Less dive-bombs upon him and Twilight, and she especially needed to quit bragging…or else that was going to get her in trouble.

“Don’t you see, guys?” Rainbow asked excitedly. “This could be my one chance to show ‘em my stuff. You gotta take me!”

Rainbow was suddenly interrupted by a tug against her tail, which brought her down to the ground.

“Hold on just one pony pickin’ minute here,” Applejack said. “I asked for that ticket first!”

“So?” Rainbow shot back. “That doesn’t mean you own it.”

“Oh, yeah? Well I challenge you to an arm-wrestle. Winner gets the ticket,” Applejack said.

The two ponies find a nearby stump and began to groan loudly trying to out-stretch each other. This didn’t go on for long when Twilight shoved them apart.

“Girls, these are my tickets. I’ll decide who gets it, thank you very much.” Twilight said firmly, “Whoever has the best reason to go should get the ticket, don’t you think?”

“Sounds reasonable to me,” Cody nodded, with a smile. “All right girls. What’s your proposal?”

“Drummin’ up business for the farm?” Applejack proposed.

“A chance to audition for the Wonderbolts?” Rainbow proposed.

“Money t’ fix Granny’s hip,” Applejack added.

“Living the dream,” Rainbow added.

Hearing all those reasons at once, Twilight and Cody just exchanged nervous looks.

“Oh my, those were all pretty good reasons, aren’t they?” She concluded, turning to Cody.

“Yeah… More than I thought,” Cody replied slowly.

Just then, both their stomachs start to rumble. The two chuckle toward each other.

“Listen to that, I am starving,” Twilight said, as Spike and Cody walked alongside her, “I don’t know about you, but I can’t make important decisions on an empty stomach.”

“A full belly leads to a clear mind, especially since one apple probably isn’t enough,” Cody replied, turning to the girls. “So we’ll, uh, think about it over lunch, and get back to you two, okay?”

“Plus I really need to speak to Twilight about the Gala…alone…” he whispered to Sal.

Sal nodded and said, “I’ll stay here with AJ and Rainbow to keep them occupied.”

“Okay,” Applejack and Rainbow said sadly.

Once Cody and Twilight left the farm, the Earth Pony and Pegasus glared at each other. Not wasting a second, they began to arm wrestle once more, determined to prove who’s the best.

Meanwhile, Twilight, Cody, and Spike had made it back to town contemplating on the matter at hand. They were just nearing a building known in Ponyville as ‘Sugarcube Corner’.

“So, who are you gonna give the ticket to, Twilight?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know Spike,” Twilight admitted. “But I really can’t think straight when I’m hungry, so where should we eat?”

“Well,” Cody pondered. “I was talking to the Mayor just the other day, and she referred to this sweet little café just down the…”

CRASH!!!

“OOMPH!”

Suddenly, something only Cody would describe as ‘the pink blur’ barreled into them at high speed, luckily, Cody got out of the way. The quick impact made the tickets float from Spike’s hands and landed right on Pinkie’s nose.

“GAH!” Pinkie shouted, dashing about. “Bats! Bats on my face! Help!”

In the midst of her excitement, Pinkie Pie came to a stop when she noticed the front of the tickets, looking very closely.

“Wait, these aren’t… tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?!” the pink pony asked.

“Oh no…” Cody muttered, rolling his eyes. “Here we go again!”

This time, they were all drawn into Pinkie’s mind, as she imagined the Grand Gala as one big party, with all the wonderful things she could imagine.

“It’s the most amazing incredible tremendous super-fun wonderful terrifically humongous party in all of Equestria! I’ve always, always, always wanted to go!”

As if that wasn’t enough, Pinkie began singing.

Pinkie Pie (Sings):
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!
Hip hip
Hooray!
It’s the best place for me,
For Pinkie…

And the party pony kept ranting between lyrics, just as she normally would:

“With the decorations like streamers and fairy-lights and pinwheels and pinatas and pin-cushions. With goodies like sugar cubes and sugar canes and sundaes and sunbeams and sarsaparilla. And I get to play my favorite-est of favorite fantabulous games like Pin the Tail on the Pony!”

Pinkie Pie (Sings):
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!
Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!
‘Cause it’s the most galarrific superbly-terrific gala ever
In the whole galaxy!
Wheee!!

Cody just stared blankly towards Pinkie Pie during that whole number, which he felt coming from a mile away. Meanwhile, Spike picked up the tickets.

“I’m going to tell her,” Cody stated bluntly.

“Don’t you dare!” Twilight scolds.

“Oh thank you, Twilight,” Pinkie said happily. “It’s the most wonderful-est gift ever.”

“Um, actually—” Twilight tried to explain.

“GASP!”

A pony startled Spike from behind. He turns to see it was just Rarity the fashionista from the Carousel Boutique.

“Are these what I think they are?” Rarity asked.

“Yes, yes, yes!” Pinkie answered. “Twilight’s taking me to the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot.”

“The gala?!” Rarity exclaimed. “I design ensembles for the gala every year, but I’ve never had the opportunity to attend. Oh, the society, the culture, the glamour! It’s where I truly belong, and where I’m destined to meet him.”

“Him!” Pinkie copied her dreamy tone, appearing puzzled. “Who?”

“Him…” Rarity began.

Rarity soon imagined herself at the Gala, all eyes from every pony were upon Rarity, in a beautiful golden yellow dress. She slowly marches down the aisle, approaching the regal Princess Celestia in all her glory.

“I would stroll through the gala, and everyone would wonder, ‘Who is that mysterious mare?’. They would never guess that I was just a simple pony from little old Ponyville.”

Before the Princess, Rarity bows before her and she seems quite pleased with the display.

“Why, I would cause such a sensation that I would be invited for an audience with Princess Celestia herself,” Rarity continued. “And the Princess would be so taken by the style and elegance that she would introduce me to ‘him’, her nephew: The most handsome eligible unicorn stallion in Canterlot.”

As Celestia stepped aside, there beside her was the ‘eligible unicorn stallion’. With alluring light brilliant arctic blue eyes, his perfectly combed light amber mane feathered and lethal, with the front of a tux with a white flower and matching blue bow tie along the light grayish coat, with a compass rose for a Cutie Mark. Indeed, the way he posed and the way he smiled, he looked like a fairy tale prince come to life.

The two unicorns soon dance regally together amidst the sea of the high-class ponies in attendance. This goes on until he bends on one knee, offering her the most beautiful diamond ever crafted for a mare of such flare.

“Our eyes would meet, our hearts would melt,” Rarity said dreamily. “Our courtship would be ‘magnificent’! He would ask for my hand in marriage, and of course I would say, ‘Yes!’”

The last scene shows Rarity and the stallion upon the altar, all the ponies in Equestria gathering to bear witness to holy matrimony. The perfect wedding for the perfect bride and her perfect groom.

“We would have a royal wedding, befitting a princess, which is…” Rarity giggled. “… What I would become upon marrying ‘him’, the stallion of my dreams.”

“Oh please, Blueblood’s not that great,” Cody said.

“You know who she’s talking about?” Twilight asked, overhearing him.

“Prince Blueblood. My bantha fodder of a cousin, remember him?” Cody replied.

“Barely, Sunset and I only seen him once,” Twilight said.

“What did he do that was so bad?” Spike asked, curiously.

“Blueblood’s hated me since I was a baby. He insulted me, called me names, and he hit me when I was five. After that, I resorted to pranking him for payback,” Cody explained.

“Twilight, I simply cannot believe you would invite Pinkie Pie so she can... party, and prevent me from meeting my true love. How could you? Hmph,” Rarity said turning her head with a huff.

“You don’t know Blueblood like I do, Rarity. None of you. Trust me, you’re better off marrying someone a lot better than that sleemo,” Cody replied.

Spike noticed a white bunny come up and snatch the tickets from his claws.

“Hey!” Spike called out.

But the bunny had already dashed away, straight towards… Fluttershy. He climbs into her arms, presenting the tickets to her which made her ‘GASP’.

“Angel, these are perfect,” Fluttershy replied softly.

Meanwhile, Rarity and Pinkie shot dirty glares at each other. Well, mostly Rarity, as Pinkie Pie bounced about like a beach ball.

“Uh, listen you guys,” Twilight said. “I haven’t decided who to give the extra ticket to.”

“You haven’t?” Rarity and Pinkie retorted together.

“Um, excuse me, Twilight,” Fluttershy said, gently. “I would just like to ask, I mean, if it would be alright, if you haven’t given it to someone else…”

“You?” Rarity exclaimed, knowing what the Pegasus was asking. “You want to go to the gala?”

“Oh, no,” Fluttershy replied.

That answer received a swift jab from Angel Bunny insisting on the yellow pegasus to go on.

“I mean, yes, or, actually, kind of. You see…”

“Make up your mind, Flutters,” Bucky said.

A sigh escapes Cody’s lips, as he points his hoof to the side signaling for a scene change.

A vision of Fluttershy in a beautiful garden takes the scene. An abundance of colorful flowers not often seen by the ponies beyond the castle. Not to mention the assortment of wondrous critters that appeared and gathered all around the shy yellow pegasus.

“… It’s not so much the Grand Galloping Gala, as it is the wondrous private gated garden that surrounds the dance,” Fluttershy explained. “The flowers are said to be the most beautiful and fragrant in all of Equestria. For the night of the gala, and that night alone, would they all be in bloom…. And that’s just the flora! Don’t get me started on the fauna. There’s loons and toucans and bitterns, oh my! Hummingbirds that can really hum, and buzzards that can really buzz. White-blue jays, and red jays, and green jays, pink jays, and pink flamingos!”

The scene shifts back as Fluttershy hovered happily before Cody and Twilight, as she cuddled Angel in her arms.

“Gee, Fluttershy, it sounds… beautiful…?” Twilight asked, unsure of herself.

“Actually, the gardens are beautiful,” Cody replied. “I’d go there a few times when I needed a break from Jedi training.”

“I agree. I’ve seen the gardens too,” Bucky spoke up.

“Oh! Do you know if everything I said is there?” Fluttershy asked excitedly.

“The flora, yes. But all the fauna… Well…”

“Wait, just a minute!”

A familiar raspy voice made Twilight and Cody look up, as Rainbow Dash stared down at them from the roof top of a nearby house.

“Aw, karabast,” Cody remarked in frustrated tone.

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight retorted angrily, as the blue Pegasus flew toward them.

“Have you been following us all day?” Cody asked, in the same tone.

“No. I mean, yes. I mean, maybe…” Rainbow stumbled. “Look, it doesn’t matter. I couldn’t risk a couple of goody-two-shoes like you two giving that ticket away to just anybody.”

“Excuse me?” Cody retorted, offended.

“Wait just another minute,” Applejack called out, approaching Twilight.

“Applejack,” Twilight replied sternly. “Were you and Sal following us too?”

“Are you following us too?” Cody asked, heated.

“No,” She replied quickly.

“Thank goodness…”

“We was followin’ this one,” Applejack motioned to Rainbow Dash. “To make sure she didn’t try any funny business. Still trying to take mah ticket.”

“Your ticket?” Rainbow retorted.

“But Twilight’s taking me!” Pinkie shot back.

Before Cody or Twilight could protest, all the other ponies started arguing over each other. Their voices grew louder and louder, nearly smothering them before Twilight and Cody finally had enough.

“QUIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!” They both screamed.

“And then I said, “Oatmeal, are you craz—”

“AHEM!” Cody cleared his throat.

Pinkie Pie suddenly stopped once she realizing that the arguing had stopped.

“Oh…” Pinkie said sheepishly.

“Girls, there’s no use in arguing,” Twilight pointed out.

“But Twilight…” Rarity tried to protest.

“Zip it!” Cody hissed, holding a hand to her mouth.

“This is my decision. I’m gonna make it on my own, and we certainly can’t think straight with all this noise…” Twilight said.

Just then, both Twilight and Cody’s stomachs grumbled loudly.

“Not to mention hunger,” Twilight grumbled. “Now go on, shoo!”

“And no more fighting with each other,” Cody added.

The five mares either walked or flew away, grumbling to themselves.

“And don’t worry, we’ll figure this out…” Twilight added.

But the mares had already disappeared, leaving Twilight alone with Spike somewhere to the side, out of sight, and Cody, who merely sighed.

“… Somehow…” Cody added quietly.

He turns toward Twilight, who looked rather upset. Cody gives her a side hug.

“Come on,” Cody ushered. “Let’s grab some lunch, my treat.”

Twilight just gave a small smile as he guided her… And Spike, who had caught up and was about to walk alongside Twilight as they headed towards the café Cody recommended.

Upon arrival, neither Twilight nor Cody could relax, not with the most important decision on their minds. Twilight was slouching on her seat, while Cody sat next to her with his elbows on the table.

“Oh Spike, what are we gonna do?” Twilight asked worried. “All five of our best friends have really good reasons to go to the gala.”

“Best friends?” Cody asked, sitting up. “We’ve really gotten that close that quickly?”

“Of course we’ve gotten that close!” Twilight answered.

Twilight put her train of thought on her other friends. Using her magic, she pulls the petals off one of the table flowers.

“But who do I choose? Applejack, or Rainbow Dash? Pinkie Pie or Fluttershy, Rarity… Oh, who should go with me?”

Twilight’s stomach grumbled again, as she used her tongue to eat up the petals. Cody just watched her as their waiter, Savior Fare, approached the table.

“Have you made your decision?” He asked, with an accent similar to the Twi’leks.

“I CAN’T DECIDE!” She bellowed.

Every pony turned and stared at the unicorn sitting straight up, her hands in the air. Cody face-palmed himself, hiding from the embarrassment.

“Twilight, he just wants to take your order,” Spike points out, toward the menu.

Twilight blinked a few times before recomposing herself.

“Oh,” She replied, calmly. “I would love a daffodil and daisy sandwich.”

“I’ll take a toasted oat burger please,” Cody requested.

“Do you have any rubies?” Spike asked.

The only response from the Professional waiter was an indignant glare.

“No? Okay…” Spike sighed, tossing the menu behind him. “… I’ll have the hay fries, extra crispy.”

Savior Fare was already walking away before Spike finished placing his order. As Savior Fare went back inside, the group had a brief moment to talk.

“What do you think, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“I think we have to try another restaurant,” Spike answered. “I mean, I like grass just fine, but would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones?”

“Spike, only you can eat gemstones,” Cody answered. “Ponies and humans can’t, it would break their teeth. They prefer them for currency… And in Rarity’s case… fine couture…”

“I mean about the gala and the ticket and who I should take!” Twilight snapped.

“You’re still on that?” Spike asked.

“To answer your question, Twilight. I think we should just write to my mom and ask her for some more tickets, that way you won’t have any trouble choosing,” Cody suggested.

“Why didn’t I think of that? Cody, you’re a genius!” Twilight replied.

Just then, Savior Fare reappeared with their order.

“Ah, your food,” He replied, setting the plates on the table.

Spike was already munching away, while Twilight and Cody smiled at their food.

“Merci,” Cody said.

“Oh thank you,” Twilight sighed. “This looks so good. I’m sure everything will be much clearer once we eat.”

“Down the hatch!” Cody nodded in agreement.

Twilight and Cody were about to start eating their sandwiches when the other ponies ran passed them and into the indoor section of the café. The two friends drop their sandwiches back on their plates, turning in confusion.

“Em, madam, monsieur?” Savior Fare replied, concerned. “Are you going to eat your food in ze rain?”

Cody looked up and saw the rain clouds, “Twilight, Spike, we should eat inside.”

The three of them went inside as it started raining.

“Uh hey, Twi,” Cody spoke up. “There’s one more thing I wanted to ask you while we were here.”

“What is it Cody?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Well you see, I want to know if…” Cody replied, “Never mind. I’ll ask you later.”

Just after the three of them finished eating, Cody took out some gems and paid the bill. It wasn’t long before they stepped out as Rarity arrived carrying a large purple umbrella.

“Twilight! Cody! It’s raining,” She said plainly.

“No, really?” Twilight retorted sarcastically.

“Come with me before you catch a cold,” Rarity said.

“Could you please walk us home?” Cody asked.

“Yes, of course,” Rarity replied.

Twilight, Spike, and Cody stepped under Rarity’s umbrella as the four of them walked back to the Golden Oaks Library. As soon as they were both inside, Twilight and Cody, along with Spike noticed the rest of their friends were there.

“Have you made a decision yet?” Rainbow asked with a grin.

“Actually, we have. We’re gonna write to my mom and ask her to send us some additional tickets for all of you,” Cody replied.

“Spike, take down a note,” Twilight said.

“On it,” Spike replied.

He then grabbed a sheet of paper and a quill. Twilight proceeds to speak aloud, as she picked up the three tickets with her magic.

Dear Princess Celestia,
Cody and I have learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there’s not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. We’re also writing to respectfully request some more tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala.

“Spike, you can send the letter now,” Twilight said.

Spike released a green flame that ate up the letter, sending it on its way.

The other mares shared a group hug together, chuckling with each other. Applejack gives Cody a one-on-one hug, leaning against his ear.

“It’s nice that y’all are thinking about us, Cody,” Applejack said, then whispered in Cody’s ear, “I know you’re eager to take Twilight to the Gala as your date.”

Hearing her say this, Cody’s eyes went wide as a mad blush formed on his cheeks.

“Um—uh---wha---uh—” Cody stammered nervously. “What are you talking about?”

“Aw come on, sugarcube,” Applejack giggled. “Ah’ve seen the way ya look at Twilight. I knew it was only a matter of time before ya asked her.”

“And I’ve seen the way you look at me, Sal,” Applejack said turning to Sal.

“Now’s your chance to tell her how you feel,” Cody whispered in Sal’s ear.

“That’s what I wanted to talk to you about. Applejack, you are the most hard working, honest, and gorgeous girl I’ve met, and I love that about you,” Sal confessed.

“I love you too, Sal. Yer the most helpful and determined boy I’ve met,” Applejack replied as she hugged him. The two of them shared a kiss, then broke it and Applejack turned back to Cody.

“Yeah… But it’s just been so crazy today, trying to decide who to take with us, I’ve never got the chance to ask her,” Cody said.

Applejack gave him a reassuring pat on the back with her hands.

“Don’t you worry ‘bout a thing, Cody. It’ll happen, one way or the other.” Applejack replied.

“Hhg… hgh… urk… urk…”

Applejack turns as Spike began making faces as if he were grossed out. At least, that’s how Applejack interpreted his grunts.

“Well wallop my withers, Spike,” Applejack said, approaching the dragon. “Isn’t that just like a boy? Can’t handle the least bit of sentiment.”

“Hey, leave me, Sal, and Bucky out of this,” Cody retorted indignantly. “I’ll have you know we like hugs, expressing our feelings, and we’re not afraid to cry… DUCK!!!”

BURP!!!

“Whoa, nelly!” Applejack exclaimed.

She barely missed getting singed by the green flame Spike spat out between her golden mane and Stenson hat. The flame turns into another letter.

“A letter from the princess?” Twilight said surprised. “That was fast.”

“Guess Mom must have had time to sort her mail today,” Cody replied.

Spike opened the letter and read the contents aloud.

“My faithful student, Twilight, your request has been granted.”

And low and behold, a familiar site met their eyes… But ten times greater.

“Seven more tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!” Spike announced.

All the ponies in the room gasped, excitedly.

“Now we can all go,” Twilight declared happily.

Amazed, Cody turns back toward Applejack, who gestures with her hand to do what he needs to do. Taking a deep breath and nodding his head, he approached Twilight from behind.

“Uh, hey… Twi?” Cody said, tapping her shoulder.

“Yes, Cody?” Twilight asked, turning around.

Cody closed his eyes, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. He took a deep breath and asked, “Twilight, would you like to be my date to the Grand Galloping Gala?”

“I’ve love to!” Twilight replied.

Just then, his and Twilight’s stomachs growled. Twilight and Cody laughed nervously.

“Allow us to treat you both to dinner,” Rarity offered.

“What a great way to apologize,” Rainbow declared.

Each of them collected their tickets as they left the house.

“And to celebrate!” Pinkie Pie added, while exiting. “Come on everyone, the cupcakes are on me!”

Spike giggled happily as he held his ticket and left the library, Sal and Bucky were also happy that they got tickets to the gala. Just then, he spots Applejack, standing casually with a sly smirk on her face. Spike froze for a second, before making a face.

“I mean, gross, I have to go too?” He remarked.

Eventually, Spike dashed away giggling again. Applejack merely chuckled, as she went to catch up with the rest of their friends. Who knows what made Spike change his mind? But in the end, with the Grand Galloping Gala only months away…

That night would be something they could all look forward to.

Chapter 14: New Feelings

It was another calm and hot summer day in Ponyville, the town had since recovered from the parasprite incident a week earlier. Cody, Twilight, and their friends were now at the lake relaxing, even Sunset Shimmer was present, since she came down to visit. Cody wore brown swimming trunks, whereas Sal and Bucky wore black ones, and Spike wore green ones. Twilight wore a magenta bikini, Applejack wore a red bikini, Rainbow Dash wore a navy blue bikini, Rarity wore a purple bikini, Fluttershy wore a green bikini, Pinkie wore a white bikini, and Sunset wore a black bikini.

Cody blushed seeing Twilight in her bikini, whereas she, Sunset, and Rarity blushed upon seeing him shirtless in his trunks. Just then, Twilight spoke up, “Cody, can you please help me put some sunblock on?”

“S-Sure, Twilight,” Cody said, “Maybe you can also help me put some on too?”

“Of course. Thank you, Cody,” Twilight replied.

Twilight laid on her abdomen as Cody rubbed the sunblock on her back, she moaned and said, “That feels great.”

Cody also rubbed it on her front and legs, once he was finished, she rubbed the sunblock on his back, as well as his chest. He moaned in delight.

“Thanks, Twilight,” Cody said.

Sal was also rubbing sunblock on Applejack’s back, then he rubbed it on her stomach and legs, once he was finished, Rainbow Dash came up to him and asked, “Sal, can you please rub some sunblock on me too?”

She battered her eyes at him, then he said, “Sure, you and AJ can rub some on me also.”

Rainbow got on her stomach, then he began rubbing the sunblock on her back, even on the bases of her wings, causing them to spring up in reflex, he then got to work on her exercise-toned stomach and legs. She moaned saying, “That feels awesome.”

Once he was finished, Rainbow signaled to Applejack, then both of them rubbed sunblock on Sal’s back, abdomen, and chest. Bucky was also helping Fluttershy and Pinkie with their sunblock, and Spike was helping Rarity with hers, much to his delight. The dragon blushed at seeing her in a bikini.

Sunset then came up to Cody and asked, “Can you please put some sunblock on me too, Cody?”

“Sure. Right away, Sunset,” Cody replied.

Cody got to work in rubbing the sunblock on Sunset’s back, she moaned in delight, then he also got to work on her stomach and legs. Once he was finished, Cody, the girls, plus Spike, Sal, and Bucky jumped into the lake. The girls were swimming around and splashing each other and even the boys. Cody swam with Twilight and Sunset.

“Applejack, you look gorgeous in your bikini,” Sal said.

“Thank ya, sugarcube,” Applejack replied as she and him engaged in a make-out session. Soon enough, Rainbow came up to Sal and said, “Sal, there’s something I want to get off my chest.”

“What is it, Rainbow?” Sal asked.

“I know you’re dating Applejack, but ever since we got to know each other, I’ve fallen in love with you. I didn’t realize it until the apple harvest time,” Rainbow replied.

“I’m flattered you think that way about me, but I’m not sure how to handle being in a love triangle,” Sal said.

“Here on Equestria, males of our species are allowed to have more than one mate, up to five or six. Male dragons, griffons, and hippogriffs can have more,” Applejack explained, “So, I’m okay with you having a second girlfriend, Sal, as long as it’s somepony I approve of.”

“Thanks, AJ,” Sal and Rainbow replied in unison.

“Besides, I like a girl with a need for speed and I always did think you were hot,” Sal said, “You look gorgeous in your bikini also, Rainbow.”

“Thanks, Sal,” Rainbow replied as they shared a steamy kiss.

Afterwards, Sal swam with both his girlfriends. Spike then came up to Rarity and asked, “Do you mind if I swim with you, Rarity?”

“Not at all, Spike,” Rarity said as they began swimming.

Soon enough, Twilight and Cody were playing chicken with Applejack and Sal. Cody blushed at having Twilight sit on his shoulders, he led on to her legs making sure she was secure. Despite their best efforts, Twilight and Cody lost to Applejack’s strength.

The next to challenge Applejack and Sal in playing chicken were Bucky and Pinkie. Even though Applejack gave her best effort, she and Sal lost. Bucky and Pinkie jumped up in victory so much that they fell in with a splash, the two of them rose up and splashed each other, then she tackled him.

“Oh, it’s on, Pinkie,” Bucky said.

Giving into his teenage hormones, he then lifted Pinkie by her legs and spun her around. She blushed at this.

Bucky then went over to Fluttershy and decided to tell her how he felt about her.

“Fluttershy? There’s something I want to get off my chest,” Bucky said.

“What is it, Bucky?” Fluttershy asked.

“I love you, Fluttershy. I always have since I first met you, you’re sweet, kind, cute, and beautiful,” Bucky replied.

“Bucky, you’re very handsome, helpful, and sweet. Not many outside my family have called me beautiful before. I love you too,” Fluttershy said.

Just then, she wrapped her arms around Bucky’s neck and the two engaged in a passionate kiss. After they gently broke away, he picked her up by the legs and spun her around, making her yelp in surprise. Afterwards, the two of them took a swim together.

Meanwhile, at the castle in Canterlot, Celestia, Blaze, and Rex were swimming in the pool, along with Luna and Dagger. Luna wore a light turquoise bikini.

“Luna, I have something I want to get off my chest,” Dagger said.

“What do thou wish to tell us?” Luna asked.

“Ever since I met you and got to know you, I’ve fallen in love with you. You’re beautiful, gorgeous, and have a loving heart and mind,” Dagger replied, then waited for an answer.

Instead of words, Luna came up to him and kissed him on the lips. Dagger returned the kiss and lifted Luna by her legs, then lovingly looked in each other’s eyes, sealing their new relationship.

“We love thou too, Dagger,” Luna said.

Celestia, Blaze, and Rex looked on with soft smiles on their faces.

“It’s about time, Dagger,” Blaze spoke up.

“Way to go, Luna,” Celestia said.

“Congratulations, Aunt Luna. You too, Uncle Dagger,” Rex added as he hugged them.

Rex swam over to his parents and asked, “Mom, can I please go to school in Ponyville?”

“Sure you can, Rex. We’ll get you registered in two weeks,” Celestia replied.

“Thanks, Mom,” Rex said, hugging her.

That evening, after Luna and Dagger went on a romantic stroll in the park, it was evening, and Luna began the night. Dagger had moved his belongings to her quarters, where she sat on the bed wearing a black nightgown that reached the top of her thighs.

“Ready for some extra special pleasure, Dagger?” Luna asked.

“We’ve only just had our first date,” Dagger said, “Are you sure about this?”

“We’ve waited a thousand years trapped in the moon for an experience like this,” Luna replied, “Far too long to be a virgin.”

“If you’re ready for this, I’m happy to oblige. Besides, I think I’ve waited long enough too,” Dagger said.

He and Luna began engaging in a heated makeout session, his hands were on her waist, while hers were wrapped around the back of his neck. With her magic, she took his sleep pants down, along with his undergarments. Dagger then took off her nightgown, revealing her black lace bra and panties. He kissed her neck and fondled her breasts, making her moan and mew, then he took off her bra and panties. Luna caressed Dagger’s chest while he moved his hands up and down her legs. She then cast a soundproofing spell and a temporary anti-pregnancy spell, then they collapsed on the bed and the room was filled with heavy moans and breathing.

Fifteen minutes later, they were naked under the covers with messy hair and panting.

“Wow, I didn’t know you could go four rounds,” Luna said, “You were amazing.”

“Good night, Luna,” Dagger replied.

“Good night, Dagger. I love you,” Luna said.

“I love you too,” Dagger replied.

The two new lovers shared one last kiss and fell asleep in each other’s embrace, then Luna activated a spell which allowed her to appear in the dream world in order to help others have good dreams.

Chapter 15: Call of the Cutie

Along the edges of Ponyville, there stood a building that marked the halfway point between the main town area and Sweet Apple Acres: The schoolhouse. A place where young ponies come and be educated in the skills they needed to find their future careers as well as how to put their cutie mark talents to good use. The school bell rang at the top tower, as the students inside chat about various topics and subjects, waiting for their classes to begin. Several of the young ponies already had cutie marks on their shoulders. Miss Cheerilee, whose cutie mark was three happy flowers, stood before the chattering students. She also wore a white and brown shirt and a green skirt with her cutie mark on it, and had an F-cup rack.

“Let’s quiet down please,” Cheerilee said. “We have a very important lessons to get to.”

It wasn’t long before all the students settle down, giving her their full attention.

“Thank you,” She replied. “Today we are going to be talking about cutie marks.”

“Bo-ring!” A filly sighed.

This was Diamond Tiara, recognized by her soft pink fur, a lavender mane with white highlights, a diamond tiara on her head, as well as a yellow minidress.

“You can all see my cutie mark, can’t you?” Miss Cheerilee asked, continuing her lesson. “Like all ponies, I wasn’t born with a cutie mark. I was a blank.”

She showed a picture of herself as a little baby. A young filly named Twist found the photo adorable. She was a cream-colored pony with a red mane and tail that could rival Pinkie’s in terms of cotton candy poofy-ness. She also had a pair of blue thick-rimmed glasses that added to how cute she was… but not as cute as Cheerilee’s baby picture.

“Aww…! She’s so precious,” She replied, with a strong lisp.

“Then one day, when I was about your age,” Miss Cheerilee continued. “I woke up to find that a cutie mark had appeared.”

Miss Cheerilee then showed a picture of herself with her cutie mark and an attire that clearly screamed her days as a teenage rebel, some of the little ponies just laughed.

“Look at her hair!” A young pony pointed out.

“Yes I know,” Miss Cheerilee said, with a discreet eye roll. “But honestly, that’s how every pony was wearing their mane back then. I had decided to become a teacher, and the flowers symbolized my hope that I could help my future students bloom if I nurtured them with knowledge. The smiles represented the cheer I hope to bring to my little ponies while they are learning…”

Some ponies were listening attentively with smiles on their faces, others looked bored and were just staring at their arms. Some, like a certain tiara wearing pony, were annoying other ponies since they flat out didn’t care about what Miss Cheerilee was saying.

“Now can anyone tell me when a pony gets his or her cutie mark?”

“Oh! Oh! Oh!” Twist raised her hand. “When they discover that certain something that makes them special!”

“That’s right, Twist,” Cheerilee said. “A cutie mark appears on a pony when he or she finds that certain something that makes them different from every other pony…”

By now Apple Bloom and Rex had each grabbed a pencil in their hands, just taking notes as Cheerilee continued her lecture.

“… Discovering what makes you unique isn’t something…”

“Pssst!”

“… that happens overnight, and no amount of hoping, wishing…”

“Pssst!”

“… or begging, would make a cutie mark appear before its time.”

“Pssst!”

By this point, Apple Bloom was getting frankly annoyed at all the noise-making.

“What?!” Apple Bloom and Rex snapped.

Diamond Tiara held a note in her hand, gesturing to Silver Spoon, a grey pony with a whitish grey mane in a braid, a pearl necklace, and some red horizontal oval-shaped glasses on her face, was motioning for the note. Apple Bloom thought nothing less and just grabbed the note. Silver Spoon also wore a purple shirt and a pink skirt.

“Apple Bloom! Rex!” Miss Cheerilee called out, sternly.

All three fillies pulled apart, but poor Rex still had the note in his hand. Diamond Tiara pout on an innocent smile on her face.

“Are you two passing a note?”

“Uh, I… Um…”

Poor Apple Bloom and Rex couldn’t explain themselves, while Diamond watched with a vicious smile on her face as the note hit the floor.

“What could be so important that it couldn’t wait until after class?” Miss Cheerilee asked.

It was then she noticed that the note had… nothing on it.

“It’s blank.”

“Remind you of any pony?” Diamond chuckled, out of the blue.

Apparently, Apple Bloom and Rex hadn’t earned their cutie marks just yet. The other students began to chuckle, whispering to each other as the yellow filly and half-colt prince sunk into her seat, very embarrassed.

Soon the school bell rang, signaling the end of the first school day, every pony made their way out of the building. Apple Bloom was feeling rather glum, still embarrassed at being put on the spot earlier that day despite Cheerilee dealing with Diamond Tiara for teasing them. Rex was just frustrated as he was not intimidated by the two rich fillies like he was by Blueblood. Their friend Twist was in high spirits, mimicking Pinkie’s bounce.

“Want some sweets?” Twist offered, “I’ve got some peppermint sticks. I made them myself.”

“Mm-mm,” Apple Bloom answered, but clearly not listening.

“They’ll make you smi-i-le,” Twist offered again.

“No…” Apple Bloom replied, depressed.

Rex sighed with frustration, for he hated when the two rich fillies got into his friend’s head. It was then a certain tiara-wearing pony, along with her best friend, decided to make themselves known as they walked in front of the three friends.

“I don’t know why we had o sit through a lecture about getting a cutie mark,” Diamond Tiara complained to Silver Spoon. “I mean, waiting for your cutie mark is sooo last week. You got yours, I just got mine. We all have them already.”

She gasped, only it was clearly not a sincere one, as she looked at Twist, Apple Bloom, and Rex.

“I mean, almost all of us have them already,” Diamond Tiara continued.

Twist looked indignant, while Apple Bloom and Rex just kept a curious look on their faces.

“Don’t worry, you three, you’re still totally invited to my cute-ceanera this weekend.” Diamond Tiara said, then turned to Rex giggling, “Especially you, Rex. You handsome prince.”

“It’s going to be amazing,” Silver Spoon added.

“It’s a party celebrating me and my fantastic cutie mark,” Diamond Tiara bragged.

Rubbing it in their face, she displayed her cutie mark, which was a five pronged tiara, as if she weren’t conceited enough wearing one on her head.

“How could it not be?”

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon soon began their small dance together.

“Bump! Bump! Sugar lump, rump!” Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon sang.

They finished their dance by smashing their back ends into each other, showing off their cutie marks with a laugh.

“Gimme a break,” Apple Bloom muttered, with a long face.

“They didn’t have to rub it in our faces,” Rex added quietly.

“See you this weekend…” Silver Spoon said.

“Blank Flanks!” The two wealthy ponies said together.

The two fillies laughed, as they walked away… until they ran right into Cody, who looked very upset. He gave the two a blank stare. Silver Spoon took a step back, while Diamond bravely glared back at him.

“What are you doing here?” Diamond asked snootily. “Shouldn’t you be making your deliveries to my father or geeking it up at the Library?”

Since the day Cody met Diamond Tiara, he had taken a polar disliking to her. Diamond Tiara seemed to snob him every time he came by. Naturally, Cody tried to be kind, but eventually he stopped trying to make conversation with her… unless he knew she was up to no good.

“On the contrary, I’ve already made my delivery,” Cody answered plainly. “And I’ll have you know there’s more to life than just studying.”

“Tell that to Miss Cheerilee,” Silver Spoon replied, rolling her eyes.

This actually made Cody chuckle since he found Silver Spoon ‘tolerable’. While she didn’t have issues trying to be friendly with him, Cody could see the bad influence Diamond Tiara had the way Silver Spoon treated others. Frankly, he couldn’t understand why she’d resort to being mean to save face, or reputation, or whatever’s on her mind.

“Trust me Silver, it will be worth it in the future,” Cody said.

“You won’t cause any trouble at the party this weekend, right Diamond?” Rex asked sternly.

“And why would I cause trouble?” Diamond Tiara asked angrily.

“I happen to be a mutual friend of Pinkie Pie, who’s planning and hosting your little cute-ceanera,” Rex replied. “Apple Bloom also just happens to be my best friend if you catch my drift.”

This was his ‘big’ hint that he heard what they said. While Silver Spoon turned away, Diamond kept glaring before she rolled her eyes at him.

“Whatever,” She muttered.

Diamond Tiara stomped away with her nose in the air, while Silver Spoon followed and kept her eyes away from Cody. The stallion watched them disappear before approaching Apple Bloom and Twist.

“Why were y’all talkin’ to them?” Apple Bloom asked curiously.

“I saw what they were doing,” Rex replied, glaring back at them. “I know what it’s like being bullied. But at least Diamond and Silver don’t scare me. Just so you know, if they ever give you too much trouble, you can always let me know. I got your back, Apple Bloom… same for you Twist.”

Twist just smiled, but Apple Bloom was still too glum to fully appreciate the extra moral support.

Later that day, Cody was kind enough to escort Twist home before bringing Apple Bloom back to Sweet Apple Acres, with Rex in tow. While Applejack was hard at work in the orchard, Apple Bloom was still fuming.

“It’s not fair!” Apple Bloom complained, pacing about. “It’s just not fair!”

“You’re telling me, Apple Bloom,” Rex replied while also pacing.

“Don’t get your manes in a tangle,” Applejack said. “You’ll get your cutie mark. Every pony gets one eventually.”

“But I don’t want one eventually!” Apple Bloom retorted. “I want one right now! I can’t go to Diamond Tiara’s cute-ceanera without one, I just can’t!”

“Course you can,” Applejack said.

“Are you sure about that?” Rex asked. “Take it from some pony who’s been at the receiving end of being picked on by his pompous prince of a cousin back home in Canterlot.”

“Ponies like that exist everywhere, sugar cube,” Applejack replied. “You just gotta learn not to take their words to heart and spoil yer day or yer fun at a party.”

“Easier said than done, Applejack,” Rex replied.

“But very true nevertheless,” Cody added.

“Y’know,” Applejack spoke. “I was the last pony in my class to get my cutie mark, and I couldn’t be prouder of it. I knew my future was to run Sweet Apple Acres, and these bright shiny apples sealed the deal…”

As Applejack continued to talk, Apple Bloom and Rex continued to pout and pace about nearby.

“Come to think of it, Granny Smith was the last one in her class,” Applejack gasped. “Huh, same as Big MacIntosh.”

Eventually Apple Bloom and Rex sat down and leaned their arms onto a bucket of apples.

“I really don’t see how that’s supposed to make me feel better,” Apple Bloom sighed. “It probably means being the last one in your class to get a cutie mark runs in the family. Runs in the family. Runs in the family! Runs in the family!”

Apple Bloom excited rushed over to Applejack, peeking out from behind her.

“You’ve got apples for your cutie mark,” Apple Bloom pointed to Applejack. “Granny Smith has an apple pie. Big MacIntosh has an apple half, my unique talent has som’n to do with apples! Apples, apples, apples!”

Apple Bloom began to hop and jump about excitedly until…

*CRASH!*

She landed in a bucket of apples, knocking all its contents all over the grounds.

“Oops… hehe, apples,” Apple Bloom smiled sheepishly.

Applejack sighed to herself. Just then, Rex helped his friend up.

It wasn’t much longer till Applejack had Cody, Sal, and Rex transport some apples, this way she, Rex, and Apple Bloom could sell them to the customers in the town’s marketplace. Apple Bloom was eager to start selling, with Rex’s help, as she had a white apron on along with her sister. Cody and Sal just watched the two sisters and Rex do their work, with their part of the work done this meant the two boys could ‘supervise’ for the time being.

“Get your delicious, nutritious apples here!” Applejack called, to ponies nearby.

“Delicious and nutritious, and so many uses!” Apple Bloom added.

She balanced an apple on her head before tossing it into her mouth, gobbling it up.

“You can eat ‘em…”

She then swallowed the apple.

“… Play with them…”

She tossed an apple in the air, grabbed a nearby racket and swung the apple away with a ‘SMACK!’. The apple splattered onto the racket and the rest towards a random passerby.

“Hey, watch it!”

“Create fine art for your home with ‘em,” Apple Bloom continued. “You have to be crazy not to get a bushel of your very own!”

She bucked an apple onto some pony’s art canvas, the pony using the canvas just glared. Applejack looked rather embarrassed.

“Heh… she’s so creative, heh,” Applejack replied sheepishly.

Just then Apple Bloom approached a nearby stallion, whose name was Time Turner.

“You, sir, care t’ buy some apples?” Apple Bloom offered.

“No thanks,” The pony answered.

“Why not?” Apple Bloom asked, taking a step forward.

“I have plenty at home,” Time Turner replied, taking a step back.

“Are you sure?” Apple Bloom asked directly.

Without question, this was making the stallion very uncomfortable.

“Yes, I’m pretty sure I…” Time Turner tried to answer.

“You’re pretty sure, but you’re not absolutely, positively, completely super-duper sure, are you?” Apple Bloom questioned.

“Are you absolutely, positively, completely super-duper sure?” Rex added.

The poor stallion found himself backed into a corner, so to speak.

“Y… ah… if I buy some apples, will you two please leave me alone?” He asked feebly.

Apple Bloom’s stern look flipped instantly.

“All right!” She replied cheerfully as she and Rex fist-bumped.

Time Turner only grabbed one apple, tossed a few coins into Applejack’s front apron pocket, and took off. Needless to say, Cody and Sal looked worried.

“Well… that’s one way to force a sale,” Cody remarked.

He and Sal knew Rex and Apple Bloom’s sale tactics were stirring some trouble.

“You forgot your change!” Applejack called out.

But it was too late. Time Turner had already gone, and there was no way he’d be back anytime.

“Woo-hoo!” Apple Bloom cheered, pleased with herself. “That’s how you sell s’m apples and get a cutie mark!”

Apple Bloom began walking around in circles, like a dog chasing its own tail.

“So, what do our cutie marks look like? A shoppin’ back full of apples? A satisfied customer eating an apple?”

Apple Bloom and Rex noticed that their hips… were still blank.

“Hmm… maybe I gotta increase my sales figures first.”

She soon noticed some pony checking out the apples on the stand.

“You judge it, you buy it!” Apple Bloom said sternly.

Her words unintentionally sent the pony reeling back and rushing off. Apple Bloom soon noticed some other pony looking about.

“We take cash or credit.”

“Or gems.” Rex added.

The second pony just looked indignant, as Applejack pulled Apple Bloom out of the pony’s face. Cody slapped a hand over his face, shaking his head.

“Ooh karabast…”

“I’m sorry, ma’am,” Applejack apologized, before facing her sister. “Aww… now Apple Bloom, you can’t just…”

But once again, Applejack was too late. Apple Bloom dropped some apples into Bon Bon’s saddlebag.

“That’ll be four bits,” Apple Bloom said plainly.

“I didn’t put those in my bag!” Bon Bon answered.

“Likely story,” Apple Bloom replied sternly, “Four bits, lady!”

Applejack grabbed Apple Bloom by her shoulders, drawing her away.

“Apple Bloom!” Applejack scolded, before addressing Bon Bon. “I am really sorry about that. She’s new. Here, take these. No charge.”

Bon Bon just looked, as Applejack gave her a few more apples… and the former just glared.

“And these,” Applejack offered.

But even with more apples in the second pocket of her bag, Bon Bon just kept glaring. Applejack sighed.

“And these,” Applejack replied.

She gave Bon Bon another bucket loaded with even more apples into her arms. Bon Bon groaned as she gave Applejack a strained smile, carrying all the apples away. Seeing the entire apple stand now nearly empty, Cody and Sal sighed.

“There goes today’s profits… and on the first day,” Cody told himself. “Some pony is definitely getting fired.”

“Y’all come back now, y’hear?” Applejack called out.

She then then gave Apple Bloom a glare, finally having enough.

“What?” Apple Bloom asked cluelessly.

“Sorry, little sis, but your apple-sellin’ days are over,” Applejack said firmly.

She quickly pulled off her little sister’s apron.

“What?” Apple Bloom exclaimed in disbelief, “But how else am I gonna get my cutie mark?”

“Home. Now,” Applejack spoke sternly.

But unlike before, Apple Bloom didn’t leave. She grabbed her apron back and pouted while holding the apron. Seeing this sad sight, Applejack decided to try a different approach.

“Rex! What the heck were you doing?!” Cody said, “I’ve seen better sales than this, even the salespeople on Tatooine didn’t do what you just did!”

“I’m sorry, Cody. I just wanted to help Apple Bloom get her cutie mark, and maybe get mine too,” Rex replied.

“Ugh. Listen, sugarcubes,” Applejack spoke gently. “I know it’s hard to wait for your own cutie marks, but you can’t just force it. Besides, y’all are not that grown up just yet. Ain’t there other fillies in your class without one?”

Apple Bloom pondered, as she sat hunched to the ground.

“Well… Twist doesn’t have hers yet,” Apple Bloom said.

“Do you think you’d feel better if you and Rex went to the party with Twist?” Cody inquired. “You three seem like pretty good friends.”

“Mmm-hmm…” Apple Bloom nodded.

“Well there you go,” Applejack smiled. “Bet you, Rex, and Twist would have a great time together. Now run along and find your friend.”

Apple Bloom nodded, turned to leave, but stopped as if she just remembered something.

“You’re sure you don’t want me to stick around ‘til the end of th’ market?”

While Applejack knew her sister’s intentions were genuine, she knew keeping her sister around would do more harm than good. Especially when a pony named Ace Point arrived, with a messy racket.

“Hey! Who’s been using my racket?” Ace Point demanded.

“Yeah, I’m sure,” Applejack answered wearily.

“Sorry about that, dude. My girlfriend’s sister was enthusiastic about her first time selling apples,” Sal apologized.

Apple Bloom and Rex quietly knocked on the door… the top half opened revealing Twist’s face.

“Oh, what’s up, Apple Bloom and Rex?” Twist asked curiously.

“So we was thinkin’…” Apple Bloom said slowly, “Maybe we could go to Diamond Tiara’s cute-ceanera together. Rex and I don’t have a cutie mark; you don’t have a cutie mark.

“Well, um…” Twist replied slowly.

The filly opened the bottom half of the door. Apple Bloom gasped when she noticed that upon Twist’s flank was a pair of candy canes, shaped into a heart.

“Isn’t my cutie mark swell?” Twist asked excitedly. “I’ve always loved making my own favorite sweets, but it took me some time to discover that it was my super-special talent. Pretty sweet, huh?”

“Yeah, pretty… sweet,” Apple Bloom replied.

Unfortunately, there was no hiding the sadness in her voice. Apple Bloom sat down, looking a bit stunned… if not glum.

“Hey… this doesn’t mean we can’t go to the cute-ceanera together,” Twist reassured, “You’re still gonna come to the party, are you?”

As if the situation couldn’t get any worse for the yellow filly and half-colt, two particular wealthy fillies walked by. They had seen and heard ‘everything’.

“Of course they will,” Diamond Tiara said smugly.

“It’s not like being the only ponies there without a cutie mark would be, like, the most embarrassing thing ever! No matter how handsome one of them is,” Silver Spoon added spitefully.

As the two rich fillies laughed, poor Apple Bloom and Rex bit their lips and their eyes grew big, looking like they’d burst into tears at any moment.

The day of the party arrived, and the depressed filly and half-colt just sat quietly by themselves near one of the town’s water fountains. It wasn’t too long before a certain blue Pegasus appeared from above them.

“Whoa, looks like some pony’s got a dark cloud hanging over their heads,” Rainbow remarked. “Let me do something about that.”

The day of the party arrived, and the depressed filly just sat quietly by herself near one of the town’s water fountains. It wasn’t too long before a certain blue Pegasus appeared from above her.

“Whoa, looks like some pony’s got a dark cloud hanging over her head,” Rainbow remarked. “Let me do something about that.”

Rainbow literally moved a huge black cloud above Apple Bloom’s head. She then made her landing just beside the discouraged little filly.

“What’s the matter, kid?” Rainbow asked.

Apple Bloom looked at her sadly before inhaling deeply.

“There’s a cute-ceanera this afternoon and every pony in my class will be there and they’ll all have their cutie marks and I wanna get my cutie mark but I’m not good at sellin’ apples but I really wanna go to the party but how can I go to the party if I don’t have my cutie mark which my big sister says I’m gonna get eventually but… I WANT IT NOW!”

Apple Bloom said all that in one breath, with a loud whine at the end. Surprisingly, Rainbow just soaked everything in.

“Cutie mark?” Rainbow replied. “I can get you a cutie mark like that!”

She flicked her tail to make the sound of a finger *SNAP!* as she finished her sentence.

“Applejack said these things take time,” Apple Bloom said, “I just have to wait for it to happen.”

“Why wait for something to happen when you can make it happen?” Rainbow suggested.

“But Applejack says th…” Apple Bloom began.

“Hey, who are you gonna listen to, Applejack?” Rainbow interrupted, mocking the orange pony’s face and pose. “Or the pony who was first in her class to get a cutie mark? I always liked flying an’ all, but I was going nowhere in a hurry. It wasn’t until my very first race that I discovered a serious need for speed, and KAZAM, this sweet baby appeared as fast as lightning.”

Apple Bloom smiled, clearly impressed, and determined to follow in Rainbow’s example.

“It’s different for everypony, Rainbow. Although you and Applejack both make good points, as it’s good to know what your talents are by trying out new things,” Rex said.

“Good point. Come on, Rex,” Apple Bloom replied.

Soon after trying out various sports, Apple Bloom and Rex reclined under a tree near Rarity’s boutique. Rainbow Dash went through her clipboard containing a long of list of things they tried to do to find Apple Bloom and Rex’s cutie marks. By Rainbow’s count, it wasn’t looking good for the two foals.

“Tried that one… tried that one… tried that one…” Rainbow read aloud to herself.

It was then Apple Bloom and Rex heard two familiar voices nearby. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, just coming out of Rarity’s boutique. Diamond Tiara had a large package in her arms.

“You’re new outfit is, like, perfect for the party,” Silver Spoon said, as they walked by.

“I know,” Diamond Tiara replied. “It totally shows off my cutie mark.”

“I love being special,” Silver Spoon sighed to herself.

“Can you imagine how embarrassing it must be to be… not special?” Diamond asked, out of the blue.

“I don’t even want to, like, think about it,” Silver Spoon retorted.

While the two fillies walked out of sight, Rainbow was so busy with her list she didn’t even hear the two fillies go by.

“Tried that one… tried that one…” Rainbow continued.

Poor Apple Bloom was feeling miserable, as if they knew she and Rex were in the bushes the entire time.

“I’m doomed. Doomed!” Apple Bloom cried out to the world, “We’ll never find sumth’n we’re good at!”

“Think positive, Apple Bloom. These things take time, as everyone keeps telling us,” Rex replied, “Even my mom told me that cutie marks can’t be rushed, not even with magic or use of the Force.”

“We really appreciate all your help, Rainbow Dash,” Apple Bloom said. “You’re a really great coach and I really learned a lot from you and I’m sure I can learn a lot more but… See you at the cute-ceanera!”

Apple Bloom and Rex zoomed away, leaving a stunned, indignant Rainbow behind.

“We should just head to the party, I reckon no pony will make fun of us except for Diamond and Silver. Besides, I can keep them away from you,” Rex said.

“I wish I had your confidence, but there’s no way I’m going to that… party…”

Apple Bloom and Rex gulped when they realized that by walking out of the kitchen, and into the main room of the shop, they walked smacked dab into the middle of Diamond Tiara’s cute-ceanera party. Cody could see their distress all the way from the kitchen. He went to save her, only for Twilight to stop him.

“Cody, please stay put,” Twilight advised.

“Twilight, you don’t know how those two fillies are,” Cody rebutted sternly. “They are like gundarks ready to devour their next meal… and Apple Bloom and Rex are their prey!”

“Cody, I know you want to help Apple Bloom and Rex, but they need to learn to stand up to bullies on their own,” Twilight explained.

“I just don’t want anything bad to happen to them,” Cody sighed sadly, “I was hoping that Rex would make more friends here in Ponyville, since he has none back home in Canterlot. I just hope he has some luck at all.”

“I know you mean well for them,” Twilight smiled, sympathetically. “But I assure you Apple Bloom and Rex won’t be alone. Applejack is aware of how those fillies are; she’s taken many measures to ensure they will have a good time at this party. Trust them, okay?”

Cody gave Twilight a reluctant nod, hoping that his best friend is right.

Back outside the kitchen, several ponies continued to chatter amongst each other as Apple Bloom and Rex realized where they were. They saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, dressed in their outfits and talking to every pony arriving for the party. Ponies from her class, as well as older ponies (Possibly parents, siblings, and family friends), were there as well. Some of the younger ponies brought gifts too. One pony had taken a bite out of one of the cupcakes, only to spit it out. Apparently, Pinkie Pie put out the cupcakes Apple Bloom made and decorated them for the party.

“How could we have forgotten the time?” She asked herself, panicking. “How could we have forgotten Pinkie Pie was hosting the party? How could we have forgotten it was at Sugar Cube Corner?”

“Maybe we were lost in our ranting a while back,” Rex replied.

Apple Bloom and Rex quickly noticed a chocolate statue and hid behind it when Pinkie put a party hat on their heads.

“Don’t forget your party hats, Forgetty Forgettersons!” Pinkie said cheerfully.

Once the pink pony bounced away, Apple Bloom zipped back behind her hiding place and quickly dashed toward a tall cake.

“We have to get out of here before any pony sees us!” Apple Bloom said.

“If you say so,” Rex replied, with a sigh.

Just then they saw Snails approaching, the lanky unicorn took a huge bite out of the tall cake. Apple Bloom and Rex saw themselves in plain sight and dashed for another hiding spot.

“Hey! It’s my cute-ceanera, I’m supposed to get the first bite of cake!” Diamond complained.

But Snails just smiled, clueless to her rants. Apple Bloom and Rex relocated behind a bunch of balloons… till a random unicorn appeared and mindlessly popped all the balloons as they danced. The two foals ducked under the punch table, peeking out from underneath the tablecloth and noticed the exit to Sugar Cube Corner. Apple Bloom and Rex quietly tried to tip-toe toward the exit from beneath the table, stopping only when a pony went for a quick drink… straight from the punch bowl. Apple Bloom and Rex just reached the exit, seemingly home free, until…

The farm pony walked right inside just as the two of them were about to leave.

“After I heard about Twist, I was afraid you wouldn’t show up. I sure am glad you came to your senses about this whole cutie mark thing. These things happen when these things are supposed to happen. Trying to rush ‘em just drives you crazy. I’ll let you be, looks like your friends want to talk to you.”

The friends she was referring to happened to be Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, who saw Apple Bloom and Rex desperately trying to leave. Applejack pushed Apple Bloom further from the door. Both rich ponies had malicious smiles on their faces as they approached the yellow filly. Applejack and Sal headed towards the kitchen when Cody was about to walk out.

“Applejack, Sal, you can’t possibly be that clueless to…”

Applejack and Sal cut off Cody with a smile and a look that said, ‘Hush and trust me’. Cody conceded, but kept a discreet eye on the three girls watching as Apple Bloom began to panic and managed to successfully pull the pink tablecloth from under the punch bowl without spilling or dropping it. She then arranged the cloth, making it resemble a makeshift cloak.

“Well, well, well, look who’s here,” Diamond Tiara spoke too sweetly, before turning to Rex, “Hi, handsome.”

“Nice outfit,” Silver Spoon added, with the same tone.

“Just sumt’n I, uh, pulled together last minute,” Apple Bloom replied.

“It really shows off your cutie mark,” Diamond Tiara said, “Oh wait, that’s right, you don’t have one.”

“So what if neither of us have one yet. It’s not something one should be embarrassed by or boast about,” Rex replied, “Unlike my sleemo of a cousin, Blueblood, you two don’t scare me.”

That truly struck a nerve for Diamond Tiara, as she suddenly lost her composed demeanor for a moment.

“Okay, well, I’m gonna go mingle,” Apple Bloom replied. “Enjoy your party.”

Apple Bloom breathed a sigh of relief… till one of her hooves snagged a part of the cloth, tearing it off of her, and sent her rolling forward into the record player with a…

*CRASH!*

The player made a loud scratch and the other ponies gasped. Apple Bloom and Rex’s worst fear was becoming a reality: Every pony staring at her and, as Cody said before, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon right up front like gundarks ready to kill their prey.

“Oh no,” Apple Bloom groaned.

“Karabast,” Rex moaned, feeling bad for his friend.

“Think you can try and hide from us with that tablecloth for a cloak?” Silver Spoon said.

“Nice try…” Diamond Tiara added.

“Blank!” They said in unison.

All the other ponies began to mumble and talk to one another, young and adult alike. This was not helping Cody’s increasing anxiety.

“Stop pestering us, you sleemos!” Rex retorted.

Unable to take it anymore, Cody was about to take move forward to save Apple Bloom and Rex until…

“You’ve got a problem with blanks!”

Cody stopped upon hearing the voice of a raspy voice, reminding him of Rainbow. He turned as the younger ponies gasped in unison. A young, orange pegasus filly, with a magenta mane and tail, emerged from underneath a table. With her was a white unicorn filly with a curly lavender and soft pink mane and tail. The unicorn filly’s attire was a pink striped shirt and yellow skirt and the pegasus filly was dressed in a black hoodie and green shorts.

“I said, you got a problem with blanks?” The filly pegasus asked again.

“The problem is, I mean, she’s like, totally not special,” Silver Spoon retorted.

Apple Bloom looked sad, till the two fillies stood between her.

“No, it means they’re full of potential,” The filly unicorn said.

“It means she could be great at anything,” The filly pegasus added, “The possibilities are, like, endless.”

That last part purposely mocked Silver Spoon’s attitude.

“She could be a great scientist, or an amazing artist, or a famous writer,” The filly unicorn added, “She could be mayor of Ponyville someday.”

With each and every suggestion, Apple Bloom and Rex’s smile grew.

“And she’s not stuck being stuck-up like you two,” The filly Pegasus added.

The other ponies laughed at that remark.

“Hey, this is my party!” Diamond Tiara protested, “Why are you two on her side?”

“Because…”

The filly Pegasus and the filly unicorn showed off their shoulders, which were just as blank as Apple Bloom’s. The yellow filly gasped with shock.

“You don’t have your cutie marks either?” Apple Bloom asked, surprised. “I thought Rex and I were the only ones.”

“We thought we were the only two,” The filly Pegasus replied.

Twilight Sparkle allowed Cody to come out of the kitchen with her, the latter smiling with satisfaction.

“I for one think you are four very lucky foals,” Twilight added.

“Very lucky indeed,” Cody nodded, facing the two fillies, “Nice to meet you two!”

“Lucky?” Diamond Tiara barked angrily. “How can they be lucky?”

Now it was Twilight’s turn to glare indignantly.

“They still get to experience the thrill of discovering who they are,” Twilight answered, “And what they’re meant to be.”

“And they got all the time in the world to figure it out,” Applejack added. “Not just an afternoon.”

She gave her little sister a wink, as if proving her point.

The other young ponies were most impressed.

“Wow Apple Bloom!” A young colt named Tornado Bolt said, “I wish I could be a scientist!”

“Do you really think you could be mayor?” A filly named Pina Colada asked.

“Maybe I got my cutie mark too soon,” A pony named Coronet replied.

Diamond Tiara suddenly noticed that all the ponies began chatting with the four of them and completely ignored her.

“Hey, what’s every pony doing?” Diamond Tiara demanded. “This is my party, every pony is supposed to be paying attention to me.”

“That’s funny considering you wanted to make Apple Bloom the center of attention,” Cody remarked. “Looks like your plan worked, Diamond Tiara… just not the way you expected.”

Cody walked away, as Diamond Tiara formed a very sour look on her face. Silver Spoon tried to save some pride for her best friend.

“Whatever,” Silver Spoon spoke up, “We still think you’re losers, especially one handsome loser. Right, Diamond Tiara? Bump, bump, sugar… lump…”

Silver Spoon soon realized her efforts to cheer up her best friend were futile, as Diamond Tiara kept pouting.

“Not now, Silver Spoon,” Diamond Tiara replied bluntly.

Back with the four foals, the filly Pegasus and filly unicorn introduced themselves to Apple Bloom and Rex.

“Name’s Scootaloo,” the Pegasus said.

“And I’m Sweetie Belle,” The unicorn said.

“Apple Bloom,” The yellow filly answered.

“I’m Rex Ando,” The half-colt prince added.

“Like Prince Blaze Ando?” Scootaloo wondered.

“He’s my dad, and Cody is my big brother,” Rex replied.

“Does that mean you’re a prince, too?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“It’s true,” Rex replied.

It wasn’t long before every pony was back to enjoying the party… except Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Diamond just sat near the top of the staircase, glaring bitterly at every pony as they enjoyed themselves. Silver Spoon watched as well, only more concerned about how to make her friend feel better more than anything else. Part of her wished she could go down and join the fun, but at the same time she didn’t want to leave Diamond Tiara alone. It was quite a predicament for the rich filly.

“This song is so super!” Twist said.

The little pony tossed herself high into the air, while the rest of the young ponies continued to dance. Applejack, Twilight, and Cody shared a toast of some punch together. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Rex sat together at a nearby table, chatting amongst themselves. Rex told them about his father’s accomplishments and about Equestria’s place in the galaxy, as well as about the Force, the Jedi, and the Sith.

“So I was thinking,” Apple Bloom pondered, “Now that we’re friends… I mean, we are friends, right?”

“How could we not be?” Scootaloo replied. “We’re totally alike. We don’t have cutie marks. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon drive us crazy—”

“Totally crazy,” Sweetie Belle agreed.

“Well, now that we’re friends,” Apple Bloom repeated, “What if the four of us work together to find out who we are and what we’re supposed to be?”

“Ooh! Ooh!” Sweetie Belle bounced excitedly, “We could form our own secret society.”

“I’m liking this idea,” Scootaloo agreed.

“A secret society,” Apple Bloom pondered, “Yeah. We need a name for it though.”

“The Cutie Mark Four?” Scootaloo proposed.

“The Cutastically Fantastics?” Sweetie Belle offered.

“How about… The Cutie Mark Crusaders?” Apple Bloom offered.

“It’s perfect!” Scootlaoo smiled.

“This is gonna be so great!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

“We’re gonna be unstoppable!” Apple Bloom added.

“What do you say we celebrate with some of these delicious cupcakes?” Scootaloo suggested.

The Pegasus went for a bite, only for Apple Bloom to make her drop it on the table.

“Not the cupcakes,” Apple Bloom protested, “Trust me.”

“They’re burned,” Rex added.

“Let’s see if there are any cookies,” Sweetie Belle suggested.

“Yeah! Come on!” Apple Bloom gestured.

The three fillies got up to look but didn’t need to search long.

“Some pony call for cookies!” Cody called out.

He proposed a plate of rather large, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies before them. Soon the four foals started grabbing a cookie.

“Oh wow!” Scootaloo smiled. “Thanks Prince Cody!”

“Rex, I need to tell ya somethin’,” Apple Bloom spoke up.

“What is it, Apple Bloom?” Rex asked.

“Since you first came to Ponyville, I’ve had a crush on you,” Apple Bloom replied.

“I figured, since Cody saw how you look at me. Besides you’re cute, pretty, and sweet, and that’s what I like about you also, Apple Bloom,” Rex said blushing.

Apple Bloom pressed her lips onto his. Rex was surprised at her bold move, and returned her kiss. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle got on both sides of Rex linking their arms with his, then Sweetie Belle spoke up, “Rex, I think you’re handsome.”

“Yeah, you’re cute,” Scootaloo said.

“Thanks, girls. I think you two are cute too, and pretty,” Rex replied.

The two fillies kissed him on his cheeks, Rex blushed at the attention he was getting from his three friends.

“Do you two also have a crush on me?” he asked.

“Yes!” Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle blurted out.

“I might want to give you two a chance also, but I want to get to know you two and Apple Bloom some more before we go on any dates,” Rex said.

“Good idea, ‘cause Sweetie Belle and I just met you and we don’t want to rush things,” Scootaloo replied.

Sweetie Belle just giggled with a light blush on her cheeks. Neither of them noticed a certain high-class filly with glasses shooting daggers at the two, especially when Sweetie Belle offered Rex a dance. Twilight smiled from afar, pleased to see every pony enjoying the party. Especially when the three fillies danced together with Rex, even Twist and Cody. As the party came to an end, Twilight Sparkle began writing her letter to Princess Celestia.

Dearest Princess Celestia,
I’m happiest to report that one of your youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes the thing you think will cause you to lose friends and feel left out…

… can actually be the thing that helps you make your closest friends and realize how special you are.

Princess Celestia read the letter aloud. By the time she finished, she gazed toward her own cutie mark with a sigh. All that was needed to know about it was this: When a pony finally gets their cutie mark…

The wait is always worth it…

Chapter 16: The Best Night Ever

It was the night of the Grand Galloping Gala as everyone was dressed and ready to go. Cody was dressed up in a nice black suit, with a white dress shirt. Sal and Bucky were dressed in their guard-style uniforms.

Several well dressed ponies were seen just outside the walls to the castle and some of them were making their way inside. Just a short distance away, several other carriages were arriving to drop off ponies going to the Gala. It was then the apple carriage was brought to a stop. Spike hopped off his seat and opened the main door, taking a bow as each pony made their way out. Spike then opened one eye and was amazed as all six girls stood before him, fully dressed in their gala attire. Twilight stood in the back with Rarity and Rainbow at her right while Applejack and Pinkie stood at her left. Fluttershy was front and center.

“Whoa! You all look...amazing!” said Spike in awe.

“Don’t forget me,” Cody spoke up as he came out in his dress robe and did a little dance before them all. Spike looked unimpressed.

“I can’t believe we’re finally here,” said Twilight excitedly as she and the other just looked at the castle with smiles as they either stood, or hovered, around her, “With all that we’ve imagined, the reality of this night is sure to make this...The Best Night Ever!” Everyone just looks at the grand Canterlot castle, from the main gate to the east and west towers. Fireworks light up the sky and some music begins to play.

Twilight Sparkle (sings):
At the Gala

Choir (sings):
At the Gala

Fluttershy (sings):
At the Gala
In the garden
I’m going to see them all
All the creatures
I’ll befriend them at the Gala

Fluttershy visions herself flying into the garden, then holding a squirrel by the hand as several other creatures gather around her.

Choir (sings)
At the Gala

Fluttershy (sings):
All the birdies
And the critters
They will love me big and small
Right here at the Gala!

Applejack (sings):
All our dreams will come true
Right here at the Gala
At the Gala

Applejack visions a long line of ponies waiting to buy various apple treats from her little stand. All the ponies are smiling as they examine and make their purchases. She is then seen standing on top of a tall mountain of bits.

At the Gala (It’s amazing)
I will sell them (Better hurry)
All my appletastic treats (Yummy yummy)
Hungry ponies (They’ll be snacking)
Carmel apple, apple sweets (Gimme some)
And I’ll earn a lot of money
for the Apple family!

Choir (sings):
All our dreams and our hope from now until hereafter
All that we’ve been wishing for will happen at the Gala
At the Gala

Rarity (sings):
At the Gala
All the royals
They will meet fair Rarity
They will see I’m just as regal at the Gala

Rarity visions herself entering the main hall of the castle. She walks down a red carpet as some other ponies take notice of her and smile. They watch her approach Prince Blueblood. He smiles at her with hearts surrounding his face. The two meet and tap horns as the upper view of the main hall can be seen.

I will find him
My Prince Charming
And how gallant he will be
He will treat me like a lady
Tonight at the Gala!

Choir (sings):
This is what we’ve waited for to have the best night ever
Each of us will live our dreams
Tonight at the Gala
At the Gala

Rainbow visions herself flying with the Wonderbolts and their audience being blown away by their performance.

[Rainbow Dash (sings):
Been dreamin’
I’ve been waitin’
To fly with those great ponies
The Wonderbolts, their daring tricks
Spinning ‘round and having kicks
Perform for crowds of thousands
They’ll shower us with diamonds
The Wonderbolts will see me right here at the Gala!

Choir (sings):
All we’ve longed for
All we’ve dreamed
Our happy ever after
Finally will all come true
Right here at the Grand Gala
At the Gala

Pinkie visions herself bouncing through the heart of the party area. Confetti is raining down from above as everyone is smiling as she bounces past. Soon they are playing “pin the tail pony” and joins some ponies doing the can-can.

Pinkie Pie (sings):
I am here at the Grand Gala
For it is the best party
But the one things it was missing was a pony named Pinkie
For I am the best parties, all the ponies will agree
Ponies playing
Ponies dancing
With me at the Grand Gala!

Choir (sings):
Happiness and laughter at the Gala
At the Gala

Princess Celestia flies above, leaving a collection of sparkles in the arch between two clouds as Twilight watches her fly by. Twilight then visions herself meeting the princess face to face. Then they enjoy chatting and spending time with each other.

Twilight Sparkle (sings):
At the Gala (At the Gala)
With the Princess (With the Princess)
Is where I’m going to be (She will be)
We will talk all about magic and what I’ve learned and see (She will see)
As she take time just for me (This will be the best night ever!)

[Choir (sings):
This will be the best night ever
At the gala

Cody visions he and Twilight in the rose garden. They just smile and laugh at they enjoy their time together. Cody then picks a red rose and gives it to her. Twilight except the rose shyly and tucks it behind her ear. Then they kiss before two large fireworks fly high into the sky, exploding into the shape of two hearts.

Cody (sings):
At the gala, (At the gala),
The moment’s finally come
The ultimate time to find romance
To confess to my one true love
It’s the grandest night, when love shines bright
our love will bloom, my dream come true
Right here at the gala!

Choir (sings):
Into the Gala we must go
We’re ready now, we’re all aglow
Into the Gala, let’s go in and have the best night ever
Into the Gala, now’s the time
We’re ready and we look divine!

Choir and Fluttershy:
Into the gala

Fluttershy:
Meet new friends

Choir and Applejack:
Into the gala

Applejack:
Sell some apples

Choir and Rarity:
Into the Gala

Rarity:
Find my Prince

Choir and Cody:
Into the Gala

Cody:
Tell her my love

Choir and Rainbow Dash:
Prove I’m great

[Rainbow Dash]
As a Wonderbolt is

“To meet!” said Fluttershy.

“To sell!” said Applejack

“To find!” said Rarity

“To prove!” said Rainbow

To whoop!” said Pinkie

“To talk!” said Twilight.

“To tell!” said Cody.

The Mane Six, Cody, Sal, Bucky, and Spike all walk inside the castle side by side as two fireworks swirl upwards and explode multiple times in the night sky.

Choir:
Into the Gala
Into the Gala
And we’ll have the best night ever!
At the Gala!

The Mane Seven are now just standing just inside the entrance with excited faces as Spike then slides in front of them all.

“Yeah! This is gonna be the best night ever,” said Spike, “You know why? ‘Cause we’re all gonna spend time to...”

ZOOOOOOM!

Everypony took off, causing Spike to spin around and left rather dizzy.

“...gether,” Spike finished as he found himself alone, “or not.”

“Don’t worry, Spike. You can hang with us,” Sal said, as he, Sal, and Spike went off.

Twilight and Cody didn’t run for long before he got in front of her to slow her down.

“Okay, so our date has officially begun,” Cody told her excitedly, “And may I say you look absolutely beautiful this evening.” Twilight blushed shyly and looked away, thought Cody could see the smile on her face.

“So...what do you wanna do first?” Cody asked his date. Twilight just gave him a cute smile. It didn’t take a genius to figure out her answer. They just sang about it.

“You wanna go see Mom and Father?” Cody asked, with very little enthusiasm. Twilight gave him a squeaky smile and large sparkly eyes.

“Okay, follow me,” said Cody as he extended a hand to her. He was hoping Twilight would hold it so he could escort her, but after a few seconds of her just looking a little stunned he lowered it.

“Heh...o...kay, sorry,” said Cody sheepishly, “Just being a gentleman. Come on.” Cody then lead the way with Twilight slightly behind. Cody felt rather embarrassed but quickly shook it off as they headed toward a room with a large staircase that split into two different directions as they ascended upward. There at the splitting point was Princess Celestia and Prince Blaze themselves. Some ponies were going up to see greet her while a few others were chatting on the ground floor. Twilight all but ran ahead of a pair of ponies making their way towards the Princess and Prince.

“Twilight, wait up!” Cody called out as he chased after her. He caught up to her just as they reached the top of the middle stair case where Princess Celestia was waiting.

“Princess Celestia!” said Twilight excitedly as Cody stood beside her.

“Twilight! Cody!” said Princess Celestia, “It is so lovely to see my star student, and Cody, we haven’t seen you since your birthday earlier this week.”

“Hi, Mom,” Cody greeted, “Twilight’s my date for the evening.”

Twilight have a brave smile. Princess Celestia giggled as Twilight recomposed herself.

“Oh, I’m so excited to be here!” said Twilight, “We have so much to catch up on.”

“Well, I want you right by my side the entire evening, so we’ll have plenty of time together,” said Princess Celestia before raising a hand and chuckling, “Well maybe not the entire evening, I’m sure my son wants some time with you as well.” Cody gave an excited smile as Twilight just gave her a sheepish one before zipping around back to stand beside her.

“That’s just what I was hoping you’d say,” said Twilight, but she meant that more with being with the Princess rather than with Cody, who just stood next to her. He considered trying to hold her hand, but after what happen when he offered her an escort he decided against it. He’d have to settle with just standing next to Twilight for now.

“I’ve missed you, Cody,” Blaze said.

“Good to see you too, Father,” Cody replied.

Meanwhile, Rarity was making her way into the same room. Rather than heading toward Princess Celestia, she found that Prince Blueblood was busy chatting with someone before making his way outside. But before he made his exit outside, he smiled in Rarity’s direction. The marshmallow pony gasped before squealing excitedly and went after him.

“Hurry Rarity...oh, but not too fast,” she told herself as she adjusted her running/walking speed several times, “But don’t want to lose him...wait, have to play it cool. On, but don’t be cold! I can’t lose him, I can’t! He’s everything I imagined! Even better than I imagined.” Rarity finally made her way out into the rose garden area where Prince Blueblood had just picked a rose. Rarity could see sparkles around his face as he looked at her. She just smiled excitedly before heading over to introduce herself.

As Rarity ventured forward, a little birdie flew just above her head. Not too far behind was a familiar yellow Pegasus pursuing it.

“Oh my! A meadowlark!” said Fluttershy as she landed and heard the bird whistling.

“I think she’s calling to me,” said Fluttershy, “It’s exactly what I wished for!” Fluttershy then hummed a sweet tune. In the distance, the bird whistled the tune back and Fluttershy followed the tune in hopes of getting to meet the bird face to face.

Just on the other side of the bushes. Applejack and Sal pushed a green box with wheels in the middle of the crowd in a grassy area. With a single buck of her leg, the box opened up into a portable selling booth loaded with various kinds of apple treats. They were just about to get ready with promoting and advertising their goods when Soarin, one of the Wonderbolts, came walking by.

“Howdy, partner!” said Applejack, “You hungry?”

“As a horse!” Soarin replied.

“Well, what’cha hankering for?” Applejack asked, “Caramel apple? Apple pie? Apple fritter? Apple fries?”

“I’ll take that big apple pie!” said Soarin, eyeballing it excitedly.

“Well, thank you kindly, sir!” Applejack replied as Soarin dropped off the bits and took the pie by the mouth and walked away, “Yee-haw! In the first minute, I made my first sale. Just like I expected.”

Soarin had made his way toward another room that was marked off exclusively for VIPs, like the Wonderbolts. While Cody planned to take Twilight over there later in the evening, he had seen Rainbow hovering by and had given her a clearance badge so she could go meet the Wonderbolts without having to sneak into the VIP area. Soarin had just reached the outside gate with his pie. Spitfire was there waiting for him.

“Always hungry after a show. Eh, Soarin?” Spitfire teased.

“Heh. Yeah!” Soarin answered, but the pie he was holding fell out of his hands as he accidentally lost his grip.

“My pie!” Soarin gasped in horror. It was just then Rainbow sees her opportunity to save the day and flew in. She just barely managed to catch the falling pie in time.

“You saved it,” Soarin exclaimed happily, “Thanks.”

“Hey, no prob,” Rainbow answered, trying to play it cool.

“Hey! I know you,” said Spitfire, “You’re the pony that saved us in Cloudsdale and won the Best Flyer Competition. Also a close friend of my old friend, Cody?”

“Hay yeah!” said the blue pony, “Name’s Rainbow Dash.”

“Well, Rainbow Dash,” Spitfire replied, “Looks like your skills saved us again. Oh, well, at least they saved Soarin’s apple pie.

“Yeah...” Soarin sighed happily as he gobbled up the pie noisily from the floor.

“Wanna come hang with us?” Spitfire asked Rainbow.

“Sure. Why not?” said Rainbow as the VIP tape was opened and Spitfire and Soarin head through. Guess Rainbow won’t be needing that clearance badge after all as she came to stop just outside the rope.

“I’m...hanging...with the...Wonderbolts!” said Rainbow as she gave a girly squeal and giggle before catching up to them.

Somewhere else in the castle, Pinkie was happily bouncing around when she came to the main ballroom of the gala.

“The shiny dance floor...The pretty party ponies...Ooh, the fancy band...” Pinkie gushed as her excitement went into overdrive. As she mentioned the stuff in the room, one could see a rather shiny and sparkly dance floor, a group of well-dressed party ponies near a giant statue, and a band of ponies playing a piano, violin, tuba, and a harp.

“Pretty! Shiny! Fancy!” said Pinkie anxiously as she can’t contain her excitement another second as she sees all the things mentioned above, “Gotta dance!”

Pinkie Pie (sings):
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala,
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala,
I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala,
It’s all I ever dreamed

She began to bounce around the area, perform the can-can, even jumped up to the base of the statue, nearly scaring a few ponies who thought she might knock the statue over or damage it. She also popped about the band, startling them, and even hugged a few random ponies rather tightly and uncomfortably.

It’s all I ever dreamed. woo hoo!
It’s all I ever dreamed, yippee!
I’m at the Grand Galloping GalaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAA!”

Pinkie then looked and saw that most of the party ponies were giving her glares and dirty looks.

It’s all I’ve ever...dreamed?

Pinkie finished her song with a very quiet and embarassed tone. It didn’t help that the other ponies snootily walked away from her and left her sitting in the middle of the floor alone.

Back in the rose garden, Rarity was just casually sniffing a rose when a certain prince arrived.

“Well, hello,” he said regally, “I am Prince Blueblood.”

“I am...Rarity,” the marshmallow pony replied, “Oh my, what a lovely rose.”

“You mean...this rose?” Prince Blueblood asked as he used his magic to pick a red rose from the bush. Rarity smiled excitedly, thinking he was going to give it to her. But then he pulled it away and claimed it for himself.

“Thank you, it goes with my eyes,” he told her. Rarity just gave an awkward moan for a reply.

Deeper into the garden, Fluttershy was still humming to try and follow the singing of the meadowlark in the distance. She then gasped when she realized the bird’s singing is getting louder.

“My little meadowlark is right around this bend!” said Fluttershy excitedly as she rushed towards it. She took a turn and was surprised to see just a local groundskeeper pony whistling like a bird.

“Was that you?” said Fluttershy, surprised that it was another pony with faded brown fur, dark grey mane, beard, and tail and was also wearing a tall, but sagged green hat.

“Yep!” said the pony whose name was Mr. Greenhooves, “I love whistlin’ while I work.” He continued to whistle as he did his work. Fluttershy walked away, feeling a little disappointed before she heard some animal noises. There was a collection of trees and grounds filled with various kinds of creatures.

“Oh! I see a toco toucan!” said Fluttershy, “and a spider monkey! And oh, is that a wallaroo?” Fluttershy quickly entered the area, but before she could settle down and land, all the animals and birds ran away from her to hide.

“Oh Fluttershy,” she scolded to herself, “You’re such a loudmouth.”

“Easy, Fluttershy. Just stay calm and I’m sure the animals will come out,” Bucky said.

Meanwhile, the Wonderbolts were continuing to chat with other ponies. While Rainbow was invited to hang out with Spitfire and Soarin, she was struggling to get any attention from them. It didn’t help that she seemed to get caught in crowds of fan ponies wherever they went. At the moment, she was hoping up and down to try and get noticed. Then she finally ducks under the dress ends of two other ponies, who were startled seeing Rainbow crawl out from under them.

“Hey Spitfire!” said Rainbow, “You ever done a rain cloud double backflip?” But Spitfire couldn’t hear, the other ponies were talking too loudly. Rainbow when headed towards Soarin.

“You ever soared past lightning?” Rainbow asked Soarin loudly, “It’s awesome!” But the result was the same. He couldn’t hear her over the loud conversations either. Rainbow just glared. She hated feeling like she was being ignored.

Back at the staircase in the main hall, Cody was feeling just as agitated. He had tried several times over to try and have just a simple conversation with Twilight, but she continued to ignore him at every opportunity. Twilight was just too focused on trying to spend time with Princess Celestia, despite the fact that she was continuing to shake hands with other ponies and was struggling to speak with the Princess.

“Welcome to the Grand Galloping Gala,” said Princess Celestia to another pony.

“Princess!” said Twilight excitedly, “I’ve been so excited to spend time with you and...”

“Yes. me too, Twi...” Princess Celestia was cut off as another pony approached, “Oh, good evening, Welcome to the Gala.” She then returned to her conversation with Twilight.

“Which was why I...” Princess Celestia was cut off again. This had been going on for a while now.

“Ladies! Lovely to see you again,” Princess Celestia told them. Twilight just sighed to herself as she noticed that the line of ponies seemed to be getting bigger, not smaller as time went by. Even Cody was sure some of these ponies had already come up.

“Looks like getting a chance to talk to the Princess is gonna be a magic trick in of itself,” said Twilight quietly.

“Then why do we let Mom be and go have some fun?” Cody suggested, “Just standing here isn’t going to do us any good. Come on. Let’s go check out the gardens, or get something to eat. You said you wanted to share a dance...”

“Cody, you said you wanted to make sure I was happy,” said Twilight sternly, “right now, being with Celestia is what I want right now!” Cody was taken aback by her stern tone but then just sighed.

“You don’t look very happy,” said Cody, “I’m only trying to help...”

“Uh-huh,” Twilight answered. Cody just sighed as he sat down. Whenever Twilight would say that, it was her way of saying she had stopped listening.

Things weren’t fairing any better with Applejack and Sal as they waited patiently by her Apple stand.

“First minute, first sale,” said Applejack as several ponies walked by, “Second...fourth...sixth...sixtieth...” As time went by, most of the ponies only seemed to snub and ignore her. No of them taking interest in any of her apple goods. Applejack sighed as she leaned forward a bit.

“This ain’t what I expected at all,” Applejack said sadly.

Pinkie was feeling the same way.

“I’m at the Grand Galloping Gala...” Pinkie tried to sing but lost heart since she had been left alone, shunted and snubbed by the other party ponies, “and it’s not what I dreamed.”

As for Rarity, Prince Blueblood went to prepare a cushion so they could sit on the grass, only for the unicorn stallion to take the entire pillow for himself.

“This isn’t at all what I imagined,” said Rarity sadly.

Princess Celestia continued to greet ponies.

“Good evening!” she told them, “So nice to meet you. Welcome!” The ponies smiled, but now Twilight was feeling ignored, but didn’t see that she was ignoring Cody as well.

“This isn’t what I hoped,” said Twilight sadly.

“This isn’t what I had in mind for a date,” Cody added in the same tone.

“Uh-huh,” said Twilight in her “not listening” tone, making Cody feel even more depressed.

Rainbow had also been left in the crowd of fan ponies as Spitfire and Soarin were too busy to pay attention to her and she had been left alone.

“This isn’t hanging out,” said Rainbow as she tried to find them.

Fluttershy was trying as best as she could to greet and spend time with the creatures, birds, and animals, but they kept running, hiding, and flying away from her.

“This isn’t what I wished for,” said Fluttershy quietly. All seven of them were feeling glum...until Twilight realized something.

“No!” Twilight exclaimed.

“I’ve waited all my life...” Rarity began.

“...for this moment!” Fluttershy finished.

“And I’m not going to...” said Pinkie.

“...let it slip by!” Applejack finished.

“If it’s the last thing I do...” said Rainbow.

“...no matter what it takes...” Cody added.

“...I’m gonna make this...” said Twilight.

“...the best night ever!” they said at once, more than ready to turn things around. Cody was the first.

“Twilight Sparkle,” said Cody sternly as he stood beside her, “I know I promised I would make you happy, but Mom is busy right now. We should go find something to do to pass the time. Let’s go to the rose garden. I want to tell you something...”

“Would you mind if I help you greet?” Twilight proposed to Princess Celestia, “It would help you get the lines moving twice as fast!”

“Why that would be a great idea,” said Princess Celestia, not seeing the devastation on Cody’s face, “Thank you for helping me out Twilight.” Cody’s jaw dropped and then he grunted angrily.

“Twilight Sparkle, were you even listening to me?” he asked sternly.

“Uh-huh,” said Twilight.

“Don’t you “uh-huh” me,” Cody snorted, “I said I had something to tell you in the garden.”

“Uh-huh,” said Twilight. Cody just gritted his teeth when he felt his stomach growl.

“I’m going to get something to eat,” said Cody as he started to walk away, “Want anything?”

“Uh-huh”

“Maybe I’ll get some of that swamp slime to drink!” Cody added.

“Uh-huh”

“Or ask the unicorn guards to do target practice at me while I dance on my head!” Cody snapped.

“Uh-huh”

Cody could feel his temper reach its limit, kettle whistling, before he just whimpered loudly and lowered his head in defeat.

“Whatever...I’m going for a walk...” Cody said sadly as he headed down the stairs. This time, Twilight didn’t answer at all or even noticed that he had left.

Back with the Wonderbolts, they were still chattering about with some other ponies as Rainbow was still trying to figure out how to get their attention when Cody arrived.

“Hey,” said Cody with no energy in his voice, “is...Spitfire busy?”

“Pretty much,” said Rainbow irritably.

“Aw, sorry about that Dash,” Cody replied, “I had hoped I could speak to her to kill some time.”

“What happened with Twilight?” Rainbow asked.

“She’s not listening to anything I tried to say!” Cody replied.

“Ouch, sorry about that, buddy. I wish I could help, but right now I’m just trying to get some attention,” Rainbow said.

“Just don’t do anything too rash,” Cody replied, “I’d hate to see you get banished from the castle... or humiliate yourself in front of your idols.” Cody then walked away as Rainbow began to ponder to herself.

“Come on, Rainbow!” she told herself as she tapped her head to think, “If they don’t notice you, you gotta make them notice you.” Rainbow then gets an idea as she walks over to a pony named Count Caesar, who was just drinking some punch and chatting with some other ponies. She whistled to catch him off guard before bucking him into the air. Count Caesar yelped in surprised as he went into the air. Others gasped as Rainbow flies to the rescue and catches him on her back. She turns to see if Spitfire or Soarin noticed, but they were too busy chatting as usual. Rainbow felt indignant as she bucked the guy off her back and stomped away. As she does so, Rarity and Prince Blueblood arrive. Rarity is still feeling rather skeptical about being with him.

“Just give him a chance, Rarity,” she told herself, “His princely side is sure to come out if you’re just patient.”

“Miss Rarity! Stop!” said Prince Blueblood as he held up an arm to make her stop walking. Rarity notices that she nearly walked into a puddle of spilt punch.

“Oh Prince Blueblood!” Rarity replied, “How chivalrous.”

“One would hate to slip,” said Prince Blueblood.

“Yes, one certainly would,” Rarity agreed.

“One’s cloak should take care of the problem,” Prince Blueblood suggested.

“Oh, of course it will,” said Rarity. She waited for the Prince to drop a cloak, but then saw that he was expecting her to drop hers. In the end, the Prince had his way as Rarity dropped her cloak and he walked across feeling very pleased with himself. Rarity just glared as she scoops up her now soiled cloak and slaps it onto the top of her shoulder. Cody had seen everything from a distance and shook his head.

“And he thinks, compared to me, that he is far superior. Well, I’m more prince than you are, sleemo,” Cody added, using a snobbish voice to two of the words and continued on his way. It wasn’t long before he found himself in the main ballroom and a certain pink pony arrived.

“Hey Cody,” said Pinkie, “where’s Twilight?”

“Don’t ask,” Cody replied bluntly.

“Ah I see,” said Pinkie cheerfully, “Twilight didn’t work out? That’s okay. You can be my date for the rest of the night!”

“I’ll just go put Rex to bed!” Cody said as he sped away.

Pinkie perked up when she got an idea. She quickly whispered to all the musicians before grabbing a mike and tapping it.

“C’mon, everypony!” said Pinkie as everyone looked at her, “I know what will make you shake those groove-thangs!”

Pinkie sang the first part, Twilight was shown helping Princess Celestia shake hands with the others. But then one pony shook Twilight’s hand and the rest of her body, frazzling her and leaving the purple pony with a swollen hand. Twilight saw the still long line of ponies and smiled wearily as they come to greet her.

You reach your right hand in
You reach your right hand out
You reach your right hand in
And you shake it all about
You do the Pony Pokey meeting lots of folks with clout
That’s what I’m talking about

In the next part, Applejack pushed some apples across the grass, causing a pony passing by to trip and fall. Applejack offered them a hoof and helped them up, but all they can do is glare and grit their teeth at her. She offered them one of her treats, but he declined and walked away with his nose in the air, leaving Applejack upset.

You spring your left hand in
You pull it right back out
You spring your left hand in
But you better help him out
You do the Pony Pokey but should find a different route
That’s what it’s all about

As Soarin and Spitfire are chatting with each other, Rainbow bucked the table to send a glass of punch into the air. She caught it easily with her left hand, which impressed both Wonderbolts. But then two ponies pull them away so they could take some photographs with them, leaving Rainbow glaring since she was left alone again.

You kick your left hoof in
You pull your left hoof out
You reach your left hoof in
Just be brave and have no doubt
You do the Pony Pokey feeling like you’re gonna pout
That’s what I’m singing about

Rarity and Prince Blueblood reached a door. With in tune to the music, Prince Blueblood tilted his head for Rarity to open it. She smiled and titled twice for him to open the door. He tilted his head three times sternly for her to open it. Rarity glared as she tilted her head several times for him to do it, only for him to pout and snub her. Rarity was taken aback as she gritted her teeth and opened the door. Prince Blueblood entered first with a smile on his face as entered Rarity right behind him. To add more insult to injury, the door smacked Rarity’s back end, causing her to fall down.

You tilt your head in
You tilt your head out
You tilt your head in
Then you shake it all about
You do the Pony Pokey even though your date’s a lout
You’re better off without

You stomp your whole self in
You stomp your whole self out
You stomp your whole self in
And you stomp yourself about
You do the Pony Pokey and you give a little shout

Pinkie starts ramming into the other musicians as she concludes her song.

That’s what I’m talking about

You do the Pony Pokey
You do the Pony Pokey
You do the Pony Pokey
And that’s what it’s all about

Yeah!

Pinkie then finished her song by dancing, then did the splits, before raising with her arms in the air. The other ponies were most indignant.

“Young lady, this is not that kind of party,” said Lyrica Lilac snootily. Pinkie just stared blankly for a second.

“Ohhhhhh...” said Pinkie, “They don’t wanna a party. These ponies want a paaartay!” Pinkie gave a fist-pump in the air as she hopped off the stage.

Outside, Applejack and Sal were just standing by her little stand looking rather bored. Then they saw a familiar face and smiled excitedly.

“Two apple fritters please,” said Rarity.

“Two apple fritters comin’ right up,” Applejack replied as she presented the treats to them both, “That’ll be four bits.”

“Ahem,” said Rarity to Prince Blueblood.

“Ahem,” Prince Blueblood retorted back.

“Ahem!” said Rarity, getting irritated with his lack of chivalry, and was inwardly adding stingy to his last of bad character qualities in her head.

“Ahem!” the Prince shot back, getting irritated himself.

“I’m going to have to pay, aren’t I?” said Rarity with a sigh.

“It’s okay, Rarity,” said Applejack, “I’ve got you covered.”

“Thank you Applejack,” said Rarity before giving the Prince a glare, “At least somepony here has good manners.” The prince took one bit of the apple fritter, before he spat it out in disgust.

“Oh! Fritters! Dumplings! Caramel Apples!” he exclaimed, “My royal lips have touched common carnival faire! I’m going to the buffet for some hors d’oeuvres!” He walked snootily away as Rarity followed him in disgust. Applejack was most indignant.

“Well, no wonder nopony wants my food,” Applejack said to herself, “They’re filling up on those fancy schmancy vittles! Well, my down-home apples are plenty good enough for this crowd. I’ll just dress ‘em up a bit and prove it to ‘em.” Applejack then pushed her cart away.

“Let’s just sell our treats at the buffet. We might have better luck there,” Sal replied.

A short distance away, Prince Blueblood was still fuming.

“I can’t believe you made me eat such common food,” he complained as Rarity, who just bit her tongue to avoid saying anything undignified when the Prince collided with someone.

“Watch where you’re going you...” Prince Blueblood stopped talking when he saw who it was. It was Cody, who had been looking at the roses when the Prince bumped into him.

“Well, well, well,” he said pompously, “The rump-head returns.” Cody was indignant.

“Good to see you too, sleemo! Not!” Cody replied, using a snooty tone. Rarity covered a hand not to giggle.

“I don’t see what my aunt sees in you,” Prince Blueblood said indignantly before glaring into Cody’s face, “You weren’t even born to her, she just took you in out of pity.” Rarity gasped silently and felt her blood boil. She was also regretting dismissing Cody when he had told her Prince Blueblood looked down at him.

“You may have been able to intimidate me when I was little, but you don’t scare me now! Because you had such a nerve to pick on me and Rex, you’re no prince, you’re bantha fodder!”

Blueblood was taken aback while Rarity smirked at Cody for having the courage to stand up to his cousin’s behavior and attitude.

Blueblood said nothing and just left. Cody just glared as Rarity followed behind, but she did look back at Cody before they headed inside. Cody just rolled his eyes.

“I hope Applejack is...oh great...” Cody was hoping to get an apple treat since he was still hungry, and wasn’t in the mood for any of the fancier items on the menu, only to find the orange pony had already left, “Sigh...so much for filling up my empty stomach. She and Sal are probably at the buffet.”

Back inside the castle, Pinkie was still trying to convince the other ponies to have fun her way as she brought a DJ turntable into the main ballroom.

“Come on, everypony!” said Pinkie, “You wanted a par-tay? Now it’s a paaartaaay!” Pinkie then started to mingle with the other ponies.

“Yeah! Uh! Now that’s a beat, yeah! Uh!” said Pinkie as she tried push and shove the other ponies about to make them dance with her, “C’mon, dance! Yeah, woohoo!” All Pinkie received were annoyed looks and glared as she made her way back to the stage. It was then Applejack entered the room, wheeling in a rather tall apple cake.

“Okay, all you high-class ponies, here’s a highfalutin apple cake for your hoity-toity taste buds,” Applejack announced. But then there was trouble.

“Stage dive!” said Pinkie as she jumped into the air...and landed on the edge of the cart with the cake, sending it flying...right at Rarity and Prince Blueblood as they entered the room. They both screamed as the cake came at them. Prince Blueblood then grabbed Rarity to use her as a shield as the cake went SPLAT all over her. That put Rarity temper to its limit as her face turned red and she growled angrily at him.

“You, sir, are the most uncharming prince I have ever met,” Rarity yelled, “In fact, the only royal thing about you is that you are a royal pain! And as for my friend, Cody, he is ten times the prince you’ll ever be!”

“Ewww...! Uh, stay back!” said Prince Blueblood as he leaned against the door to keep his distance from her, “I just had myself groomed!” Now Rarity truly despised the Prince. Not only was he everything she had seen tonight, but he didn’t listen to anything she said and he was quivering away from her like a big coward. So much for being a brave and strong prince.

“Afraid to get dirty?!” Rarity challenged as she began to babble and wiggled about, splattering cake all over him. Prince Blueblood tried to get away but ended up backing into the statue, which caused it to wobble dangerously.

“This is my chance!” said Rainbow as she flew as fast as she could, passed Soarin and Spitfire, and landed just under the statue as it fell into her arms with a CLANG.

“Yes,” Rainbow said triumphantly, until she realized just how heavy the statue was and began to teeter about, “Whoa!” Rainbow tries as best as she could to regain her balance, but then she ended up bumping a nearby roman style column, which toppled into another, then another, and another. In total, six pillars were sent crashing to the ground around her and the statue on her back broke into two pieces beside her. It was then Princess Celestia and Twilight, having finally finished with the greetings, entered the room and gasped silently at the mess. Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie, and Rainbow all looked at the two ponies with worried and guilty faces. Princess Celestia was agape and Twilight said the worst thing you could say in a situation like this.

It was a second later when Fluttershy and Bucky came inside, more satisfied than the others with lots of animals behind them.

“Well..it can’t get any worse.”

“At least Fluttershy and Bucky was better off than the rest of us! Way to go, you two!!!” Pinkie shouted.

Pinkie’s loud voice caused the animals to stampede, then Cody came flying into the ballrooms backward and launched high into the air.

“WOOOOOOOOOOOO-HOO-HOO-HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! UGH!” Cody screamed as he landed hard on his stomach before passing out not too far away from Twilight and Princess Celestia, who flinched when he landed.

Princess Celestia and Twilight cringed at the sight. Cody was badly beaten up, his hair was messy, his suit torn and tattered. All the other guests ran away in panic from the stampede.

Um, um, uh...Eugh...” was all Twilight could say before Princess Celestia leaned into her ear.

“Take Cody, and run,” she said simply. Twilight didn’t need another second before she lifted Cody in her magic and gave a loud whistle. Her five friends just looked at her before getting the message to make a break for it. As they made their way down the stairs, one of Rarity’s glass slippers fell off.

“Ooh! Rarity, your glass slipper!” Pinkie pointed out, “Now your prince is sure to find you.”

“No! Ugh!” Rarity shrieked as she rushed up the stairs and smashed the glass slipper. Pinkie just looked at the remained with confusion.

“Let’s go!” said Rarity as she pulled Pinkie away.

After all this ruckus, many must be wondering what happened to a certain little dragon. Well, after being left alone, he had ditched his tux and was now sitting at the counter of his favorite donut shop. He was apparently eating donuts and drinking cocoa to deal with his loneliness.

“Hey, Pony Joe,” said Spike sadly, “Another donut.” Spike requested as he slammed his cocoa cup on the counter.

“Don’t you think you’ve had enough?” Joe asked with concern.

“Another donut!” Spike snapped, slamming his cup and spilling some of his cocoa on it, “Extra Sprinkles!” Spike just leaned his elbow on the counter when the ringing of the shop door was heard behind them.

“Twilight Sparkle, ha, ha, ha. Long time no see,” Joe said.

Spike turned around to see the Mane 6, Cody, Sal, and Bucky behind him. Well, six of them were standing before him, their outfits were all tattered from the chaos, including their manes, and some of them had either a missing shoe or wearing a damaged one.

“Hey, how was the Gala?” Spike asked eagerly, “How was your best night ever?” He then noticed Cody out cold and flinched back.

“Whoa...what happened to Cody?” Spike asked curiously, “Geez, Twilight did ya beat him up or something?” A loud whimper could be heard as Pinkie was on the verge of tears and looked away. An obvious clue she was to blame for Cody’s condition. Twilight just gazed on her direction before looking at Spike.

“It’s a long story,” she said plain and simple.

It wasn’t much longer before Spike, Sal, and Bucky had been told everything that had happened at the Gala as they sat around a table with some donuts in the middle. Cody had also recovered and was now sitting next to Twilight looking rather drained as he quietly ate a donut to fill his empty stomach. Ironically, Cody didn’t bother to say anything about his date with Twilight as they brought Spike up to speed. Fortunately, the look on his face and Twilight’s sheepish giggles was a clue that didn’t go well either.

“That sounds like the worst night ever!” Spike replied after everyone was finished.

“It was!” said Everyone, then everyone minus Cody began to laugh.

“I just hope Princess Celestia isn’t upset with us ruining the Gala,” said Twilight worried with Rainbow giving a sheepishly smile nearby.

“That was the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!” said Princess Celestia as she entered the donut shop.

“Princess Celestia!” said everyone in surprise as she took a seat behind Cody.

“Pardon me, Princess,” said Twilight, “But tonight was just awful.”

“The absolute worst,” Cody added quietly.

“Oh, Twilight, Cody,” said Princess Celestia, “The Grand Galloping Gala is always awful!”

“It is?” said Twilight and Cody together in shock.

“That is why I was thrilled you and your friends were all attending,” Princess Celestia answered, “I was hoping you could liven things up a bit. And while the evening may not have gone as you planned, I’m sure you’ll agree that in the end it didn’t turn out so bad for this group of friends.” Everyone chuckled in agreement, though Cody’s chuckle was a little hallow.

“You’re right, Princess,” said Twilight, “Friends have a way of making even the worst of times into something pretty great.”

“Yeah! Hanging out with friends!” said Rainbow.

“Talking!” added Fluttershy.

“Laughing” Pinkie said with a smile.

“I guess so,” Cody replied quietly.

“You mean doing exactly what I wanted to so the whole time?” Spike said as a matter of fact.

“Yes, Spike,” said Twilight, “You were right.”

“As horrible as our night was...,” said Applejack.

“...being together here has made it all better,” Pinkie finished.

“In fact, it’s made it...” said Pinkie.

“...The best night ever!” said the six friends and they all laughed happily together...until they noticed that Cody wasn’t joining in.

“What’s got you so down, my son?” Princess Celestia asked him, “Aren’t you glad you have such great and wonderful friends?” Cody sighed.

“Of course, Mom,” said Cody, “These girls are amazing. Spike as well. It’s just...” Twilight could feel the guilt growing inside her stomach and just looked away insecurely.

“I’m guess your date with Twilight didn’t go well,” Applejack asked. Cody just looked at Twilight, who was still trying not to look at anypony.

“You can say that again,” said Rainbow for Cody, “He came to me by himself saying she ignored him all night. He was pretty down about it too.” Princess Celestia blinked in surprise.

“Cody, you saw how busy I was,” she said to him, “Why didn’t you offer to take Twilight somewhere to pass the time until I was finished?”

“I did,” said Cody, “But you know how hard it is to get the attention of someone whose star struck? You are the Princess of all Equestria after all.” Twilight blushed.

“I’m sorry Cody,” said Twilight, “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. I just really wanted some one on one time with the Princess. I didn’t mean to ignore you.” Cody just looked at her quietly a Celestia leaned into his ear.

“Don’t you have something you want to tell her?” she whispered. Cody looked a little nervous as he looked and everyone else gave him smiles. They wanted him to tell Twilight the truth. Cody just took a deep breath and sighed.

“Twilight, there is something I wanted to tell you,” said Cody, “I had hoped it would have been after we had some fun together instead of...after a night like this.”

“I...uhh...see...heh...what is it you want to tell me?” Twilight asked, feeling rather nervous as she smiled. Cody bravely reached out for one of her arms and held it, making her cheeks turn a soft pink.

“Remember when I gave you this necklace for your birthday last year?” Cody asked, gently holding the pendant in his hand.

“Yes, it was the best birthday present I ever got,” Twilight replied, “Why?”

“I wanted to give you something that was as pretty and beautiful like you are, and from the moment we met, I’ve always wanted to say...” Cody began to say. He then pulled out a beautifully cut red rose that he managed to keep in good condition despite what he had been through, “...I love you, Twilight Sparkle.”

The other’s smiled as Cody presented Twilight the rose. Twilight just looked at the rose and then at Cody. Twilight suddenly felt like she couldn’t breathe and she could feel tears starting to prick the corners of her eyes. She thought back on all the good times she had with Cody while just staring at her necklace, then returned to face Cody.

“I love you too, Cody Ando,” Twilight replied, pulling him into a kiss.

Cody’s eyes widened, then he accepted and returned it. Their friends looked on with smiles on their faces.

Once Cody and Twilight gently broke away, he asked, “I take it you’re ready to be more than friends?”

“Of course, Cody. When we get home, let’s do some reading in our bed,” Twilight replied.

“Sounds good to me,” Cody said, “Sorry our first date didn’t turn out so good. Maybe I can make it up to you tomorrow afternoon at Sugarcube Corner?”

“I’d love that,” Twilight replied as they and their friends left the donut shop.

Chapter 17: The Battle for Zeffo

A week after the gala, Cody was walking around Canterlot with Twilight and their friends.

“Thanks for taking us to see more of Canterlot, Cody and Twilight,” Rarity said.

“Don’t mention it. We felt you needed it after our blunder at the gala last week,” Cody replied.

“We’re gonna go see our dad and introduce Applejack, Rainbow, and Fluttershy to him. Catch you later, Cody,” Sal said, as he and Bucky went off.

Once they reached the castle, Sal and Bucky met up with their father.

“Hi, Dad,” Sal and Bucky said in unison.

“Hi, boys. What have you been up to since you moved to Ponyville?” Gale asked.

“That’s just it, dad. We got someone for you to meet,” Sal replied. “These are my girlfriends, Applejack and Rainbow Dash.”

“And this is my girlfriend, Fluttershy,” Bucky added.

“Good to meet you all. I’m Gale Thrace,” Gale greeted.

“Howdy, Gale,” Applejack replied.

“Since we’re on the subject of romance, did you manage to find a gorgeous mare for yourself, dad?” Bucky asked.

“Unfortunately, no,” Gale replied.

Meanwhile, in another part of the castle, Cody and the others were in the lounge catching up with Cal, Merrin, and Greez.

“How’ve you been, Cal?” Cody asked.

“Merrin and I are doing great, and so are our triplets, Jaro, Trilla, and Cere,” Cal replied.

“Cal and Merrin named them Jaro, in honor of his late master, Jaro Tapal, then Trilla and Cere in honor of Cere’s fallen apprentice, and Cere Junda herself. Cal's apprentice, Kata Akuna is also doing well in her Jedi training,” Greez added.

“So where are they right now?” Cody asked.

“They are in the castle gardens hanging out with Rex,” Merrin replied.

After catching up with the Mantis crew, Cody and Twilight went to talk to his father.

“Hi, father. What do you wish to discuss with us?” Cody asked.

“It’s not what I want to discuss with you, but rather to show you,” Blaze replied.

“What do you wish to show us?” Twilight asked.

It wasn’t long before Blaze took Cody and Twilight to the base of the mountain where there were fifty thousand starfighters.

“Behold, Equestria’s defense fleet,” Blaze said.

“How did you come up with a fleet so quickly? Twilight asked.

“We saved some old Separatist warships from being scrapped,” Blaze replied.

“It’s about time the fleet was completed, father,” Cody said.

“As for our Phoenix starfighters, they’re equipped with four cannons, proton torpedoes, and concussion missiles, they are made from the remains of old Republic starfighters, which Dagger, the Mantis crew, and myself salvaged,” Blaze added.

“What gave you the idea to build planetary defenses like this?” Twilight asked.

“I ordered a massive buildup of these ships as well as other defense systems once Dagger and I started salvaging materials from Clone War battlefields. I got the idea because of Cody’s terrible force vision of the Empire invading Equestria when he was five,” Blaze explained.

“The fleet has yet to be tested in battle once more, and what better way to test it then by liberating Zeffo from the Empire,” Cody suggested.

“What gives you that idea besides just testing the fleet in battle?” Blaze asked.

“I heard about the plight of Zeffo from Cal and the Mantis crew and I think something should be done about it. Besides, I have a plan,” Cody replied.

“A working plan also needs good intel,” Blaze said.

“Maybe Hondo can provide us with such intel once he arrives with our weapons shipment,” Cody replied.

Soon enough, a red and yellow Sentinel-class shuttle landed on the mountainside. The hatch opened revealing a familiar Weequay pirate and his Ugnaught partner. They carried a crate full of blasters to the castle, where Blaze, Cody, and Twilight returned from the staging area.

“Hello, my friends! We have the blasters you needed as promised,” Hondo said.

“Good to see you, Hondo. You too, Melch,” Blaze replied.

“Nice to see you, Cody. Look at you, a Jedi,” Hondo greeted.

“Good to see you too, Hondo. I soon will be a Jedi Knight once my training and friendship studies are complete,” Cody replied, then spoke into his comlink, “Sal, Bucky, Hondo is here with the weapons shipment. I need you and the girls here right away.”

“We’ll be right there,” Sal said over the comlink.

It wasn’t long before Sal, Bucky, and the girls met up with Cody.

“Girls, this is Hondo Ohnaka, my father’s business partner, and his first mate, Melch,” Cody introduced, “Hondo and Melch, this is my girlfriend, Twilight Sparkle and our friends, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, Spike, and you remember Sal and Bucky.”

“Good to meet you, Hondo and Melch,” Twilight greeted.

“Good to meet you all,” Hondo replied.

“Since you’re here, could you please give us some intel about the Imperial presence on Zeffo?” Cody asked.

“They initially had five ships, three star destroyers and two light cruisers, but as a result of my activity there, they now have three more ships. They also have about five hundred more stormtroopers stationed there with walkers, probe droids, and security droids,” Hondo explained.

“That means we might need to send ten of our own warships,” Cody said.

“So what’s the plan?” Twilight asked.

“To liberate Zeffo, we need to secure the landing platform, destroy the Imperial headquarters, and wipe out their forces. We’ll have more details when we get there,” Cody replied.

Some of the blasters in the crate were a RSKF-44 heavy blaster pistol, a pair of A-180 blaster pistols, and a rare sonic blaster rifle. Sal and Bucky gave them to Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie. It wasn’t long before the Thrace brothers took the three girls to Sweet Apple Acres to get some target practice.

In the field outside the barn, three targets were set up for Applejack, Rainbow, and Pinkie. The three girls were unsure at first as they’ve never had experience with these kind of weapons before.

“Just aim at the target, focus on it, and pull the trigger,” Sal said to both his girlfriends.

Applejack and Rainbow fired shots and it hit close to the center, then fired again until they each hit a bullseye.

“Just think of this like a handheld version of your party cannon. All you need do is aim and fire,” Bucky said to Pinkie.

Pinkie fired a sonic blast and it shattered the target into quarters.

“I got it on the first try!” Pinkie squeed, jumping up and down.

She then jumped into Bucky’s arms, making him blush.

It wasn’t long before Applejack, Rainbow and Pinkie practiced firing at moving targets, which were training droids painted white to resemble stormtroopers. These droids were also programmed to mimic the movements of stormtroopers too.

“When it comes to moving targets, you need to aim in front of it because you’ll have the best chance to hit it as opposed to aiming at the target,” Sal said.

“If you aim at the target, you are highly likely to miss it,” Bucky added.

With two hours of practice, the girls managed to score some hits. They were also taught how to use thermal detonators by practicing with rocks first. After a few more hours of grenade and target practice, Applejack, Rainbow, Pinkie and the Thrace brothers met up with Cody, Twilight, Rarity, Spike, and Sunset back at the palace. Cody, Cal, and Greez were briefing the guards, navy sailors, and the Wonderbolts about their plan to liberate Zeffo, based on Hondo’s intel.

“Now that you understand the plan, are you all with me?!” Cody asked.

“Yes, Prince Cody, sir!” The troops said in unison.

“Good! ‘Cause this is a moment you’ve all been training for! And may the Force be with us!” Cody replied.

Soon enough, ten of the warships in the defense fleet were loaded up and ready for action. Cody, Sal, Bucky, Spike, R5, and the girls boarded the Stinger Mantis where Cal, Greez, and BD were waiting for them.

“Are you sure that we are enough for this mission, Cody?” Twilight asked.

“We’re gonna need some help from someone with more experience fighting the Empire,” Cody replied.

“Who do you think could help us?” Sunset asked.

“Phoenix Squadron. They’re a battle group of the recently founded Rebel Alliance, which is headquartered at the Great Massassi Temple on Yavin 4 as far as I was told,” Cody explained.

“Greez, set course for Zeffo,” Cal said.

“Right away, Cal,” Greez replied.

“All ships, set course for Zeffo,” Cody ordered over the comm.

Just then, all ten ships, plus the Mantis went into hyperspace. It was then Cody decided to contact Phoenix Squadron, the comm was on a secure frequency.

“Phoenix Squadron, this is Prince Cody Ando of the planet Equestria calling Captain Hera Syndulla of the Ghost. Do you read me?” Cody called over the comm.

“We read you, Prince Cody,” Hera said over the hologram.

“I’m calling ‘cause my friends and I need you and your squadron’s help in liberating Zeffo from the Empire. We even made a plan, based on intel from Hondo,” Cody replied.

“Let’s hear it,” Hera said over the hologram as the rest of the crew came into view.

Cody and his friends explained their plan to the Ghost crew and they thought it was a good, almost foolproof plan.

It wasn’t long before the Equestrian ships came out of hyperspace over Zeffo.

“Engage cloaking device before the Empire detects us,” Cody ordered.

“Right away, Cody,” Greez replied.

“Jam their communications and all ships, open fire and launch all fighters. Target their shield generators,” Cody said over the comms.

Just then, Phoenix Squadron came out of hyperspace. They were compromised of the Ghost, four A-wings and seven X-wings. It was then the Equestrian warships also launched their Phoenix starfighters.

Onboard a Star Destroyer, a commander came up to the admiral.

“Admiral Tenant, we’ve got Phoenix Squadron inbound, along with ten unidentified warships,” the commander said.

“Launch all fighters to intercept,” Admiral Tenant ordered.

The Imperial fighter squadrons consisted of standard TIE fighters, as well as TIE bombers and TIE interceptors. Cody noticed the TIEs coming towards them, then said over the comm, “Wonderbolts, we’ve got incoming TIE fighters. Keep them away from the cruisers and help Phoenix Squadron.”

“We’re on it, Prince Cody,” Spitfire replied over the comm.

It wasn’t long before the Wonderbolts, with help from Phoenix Squadron, managed to wipe out most of the TIE fighters, Phoenix Squadron lost only three A-wings. The Equestrian battlecruisers also managed to eliminate most of the star destroyers and all the light cruisers. The lead battlecruiser fired on the lead destroyer’s shield generators. Onboard, several officers noticed they had no more shields.

“Admiral, our shields are gone!” an officer said.

“Intensify forward firepower!” Admiral Tenant ordered.

The Stinger Mantis de-cloaked bore down on the lead star destroyer and fired on the bridge, killing everyone within the vicinity, including Admiral Tenant. With the Star destroyers eliminated, the Wonderbolts and Phoenix Squadron managed to lure the remaining TIEs towards the surface, while the Mantis led a convoy of troop carriers down to the derelict hangar.

Once Cody and his friends exited the Mantis, they took out any stormtroopers in their path and managed to secure the hangar. Cody and his friends then met up with the Ghost crew.

“Good to see you again personally, Hera. You too, Kanan and Ezra,” Cody greeted.

“Good to see you too, Cody,” Hera replied.

“Nice to see you again, Cal,” Kanan greeted.

“This is my girlfriend, Twilight Sparkle, and our friends, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, Spike, Sal, Bucky, and my droid, R5-G7,” Cody said, “Girls, Sal, Bucky, and Spike, this is Hera Syndulla, Kanan Jarrus, Ezra Bridger, Sabine Wren, Zeb Orrelios, and C1-10P aka Chopper.”

“Nice meetin’ ya, Zeb,” Applejack greeted.

“Good to meet you,” Rainbow added.

“Good to meet you too, Applejack and Rainbow Dash,” Zeb replied.

“Hello, Sabine,” Rarity greeted.

“Good to meet you, Rarity,” Sabine replied.

“Your armor is such a good work of art,” Rarity said.

“Thanks,” Sabine replied.

“Good to meet you all,” Ezra greeted.

“Now that we’re all acquainted, we need to get to the dig site and destroy it, then secure Imperial headquarters,” Cody said.

“I know a place where we can find some explosives, on the wreck of an old Republic Venator-class Star destroyer. Let’s head there first,” Cal suggested.

“Good thinking, Cal,” Sabine said.

“Hera and I shall stay behind and defend the platform,” Kanan replied.

“Pinkie and Greez, I need you to stay with Kanan, Hera, and the guards and help them keep the platform secure,” Cody ordered.

“We’re on it!” Pinkie replied.

Cody, Twilight, and their friends, along with Ezra, Sabine, Zeb, and Chopper climbed down from the platform and went on to the shipwreck. Once they got close to the wreck, Cody and the others noticed some probe droids up ahead.

“Stop. We’ve got Imperial probe droids inbound,” Cody said, then asked his girlfriend, “Twilight, do you or Sunset know an invisibility spell?”

“We do,” Twilight replied.

“Good. Let’s use it so we can get past those probe droids,” Cody said.

It wasn’t long before Twilight and Sunset cast the invisibility spell on themselves, Cody, and the others, save for Ezra and Sabine, who then eliminated the probe droids. Once inside the wreck, they went into the armory for some explosives, then went into the medical bay for some supplies. Among them was a whole surgical pod, which Twilight was able to teleport back to the Mantis, along with the other medical supplies.

Having acquired the explosives, Cody, Twilight, and their friends went on to the dig site using Cal’s holo-map. There, they noticed what appeared to be a zip-line, then Cal and BD zipped across it. R5 and Chopper activated their rocket boosters, with Cody holding onto R5 and they reached the other side.

“Come on, everyone,” Cody said.

Twilight, Sunset, and Rarity each teleported across with Spike, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Sabine, who had a jet pack, flew across, then Applejack, Ezra, Zeb, Sal, and Bucky climbed up and crossed the line by hand and then they got to a part of the dig site where daylight was showing.

“Rainbow, think you can fly up to the top and contact the fleet for an orbital bombardment?” Cody suggested.

“Sure. Good thinking, Cody,” Rainbow replied as she flew up top.

Upon reaching the skylight, Rainbow turned on her com-link and said, “Celestial Pride, do you read me? Cody requests an orbital bombardment on the dig site.”

“We read you, Rainbow Dash. We’ll be there shortly,” A ship captain replied over the comm.

Rainbow then flew back towards Cody and the others and said, “The fleet will be firing down on this place soon.”

“Come on, everyone. We gotta get out of here now,” Cody ordered.

“According to the holo-map, there’s a turbo-lift that goes to Imperial headquarters,” Cal replied.

Cody, Twilight, and the others followed the holo-map towards the turbo-lift, they blasted or cut down any stormtroopers in their path, until they finally reached the turbo-lift.

Once inside Imperial headquarters, Cody, Twilight, and the others pulled up the holo-map and followed it to the reactor. There, they put the explosives into place, set the time to one minute, then exited the room. It wasn’t long before they were spotted by a company of stormtroopers.

“Intruders! Open fire!” a commander shouted.

Three of the stormtroopers opened fire, but Cody, Cal, and Ezra deflected every blast back at them. Applejack, Rainbow, Sal, Bucky, and Sabine blasted at a few others, Twilight, Rarity, and Sunset incapacitated some with their magic, while Zeb took out the commander with a melee attack. Just then, an explosion was heard and the power was lost.

The command deck

“Lord Claw, we lost all power,” an officer said.

“There are probably intruders here. I sense three Jedi,” Darth Claw replied, then ordered, “Inquisitors, Purge troopers, come with me!”

Elsewhere, Cody, Twilight, and the others managed to escape Imperial headquarters and were now in the abandoned village. Cody stopped for a little bit, as a feeling was coming over him.

“What is it, Cody?” Twilight asked.

“We’ve got a TIE Defender and a TIE Reaper coming our way, and I sense an evil presence aboard them,” Cody replied, “Get back to the hangar, we’ll cover you!”

Twilight and Sunset teleported back to the hangar, Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Sabine flew there, while Applejack, Sal, Bucky, and Zeb immediately ran to the hangar entrance. Just then, the TIEs landed with Darth Claw emerging from the Defender, while the two Inquisitors and Purge troopers emerged from the TIE Reaper. Cody, Cal, and Ezra activated their lightsabers, then Claw and the Inquisitors activated theirs. The first Inquisitor was a middle-aged human male, while the second one was a young Pantoran male a few years older than the girls.

“Well, well, well. If it isn’t Cal Kestis, Ezra Bridger, and a padawan I have yet to meet,” Claw said, “I sense a fourth Jedi. Twelfth Brother, Purge troopers, search the area!”

“I’ve heard of you, you’re Darth Claw,” Cody replied.

“Taron Malicos? Merrin and I defeated you on Dathomir!” Cal said recognizing the first Inquisitor.

“The Empire freed me from my stone imprisonment and recruited me to become an Inquisitor, and I will have my revenge on you!” Malicos replied.

Cody dueled with Claw, while Malicos dueled Cal. The Twelfth Brother and the Purge troopers searched the area until they reached the hangar. Ezra realized that the Inquisitor and Purge troopers were looking for Kanan, so he followed them.

At the hangar platform

Hera, Kanan, Pinkie, Greez, and the guards were still holding off waves of stormtroopers, security droids, and AT-STs. Sal, Bucky, Sabine, Zeb, Spike, Twilight, and the other five mares immediately came to their friends’ aid upon returning to the platform. Just then, the Twelfth Brother and the Purge troopers came towards Kanan.

“Oh, karabast. Another Inquisitor,” Zeb said.

“What kind of stormtroopers are those?” Sabine asked.

“According to Cal, they’re Purge troopers, elite troops trained to fight Jedi,” Greez replied.

Kanan began dueling with the Twelfth Brother, while Ezra was engaging the Purge troopers with much difficulty, since neither he or Kanan ever had run-ins with these type of troopers before. Luckily, Sal, Bucky, and the most of the girls took out most of the Purge troopers, leaving Ezra having to deal with only one. It took four slashes to take out the remaining trooper. It wasn’t long before Ezra went to help Kanan.

“We’ll take him together,” Ezra said.

Back in the abandoned village, Cody and Cal were still dueling Claw and Malicos. It wasn’t long before Cal managed to catch Malicos off guard and then strike him down.

“For the Nightbrothers,” Cal said, then confiscated Malicos’ lightsabers.

As Cody and Claw kept dueling, the latter started using Force lightning and Cody managed to block it. Claw fought aggressively, but Cody was able to hold his own.

“For a Padawan, you sure put up a fight,” Claw said.

“I’m full of surprises, Claw,” Cody replied.

Soon enough, Cody managed to put Claw on the defensive and knocked him into a wall. They kept dueling until Cody pushed Claw’s blade into the ground, then cut off his right forearm and slashed his face, causing him to fall.

“You are beaten. Surrender or die,” Cody said.

“You may have won this round, but I’ll get you next time, Padawan!” Claw replied, fleeing to his ship.

Claw then flew off in his TIE Defender, then Cody and Cal returned to the hangar and rejoined the others. In the distance, they could see the X-wings of Phoenix Squadron as well as the the Phoenix starfighters of the Wonderbolts flying overhead, returning to the fleet after a series of successful strafing raids.

Cody noticed the Pantoran Inquisitor was still standing and went over to Kanan and Ezra.

“Why does the Twelfth Brother live?” Cody asked.

“He surrendered to us, because he wanted to defect,” Kanan replied.

“Correct, I’ve had enough of the dark side and wish to rejoin the light side. I’ll explain later,” the Twelfth Brother added.

“I’m Cody Ando. We’ll be glad to have you, Twelfth Brother,” Cody said.

“Thank you, Cody Ando. My real name is Nash Volan,” the Twelfth Brother replied.

“Mission accomplished, Cody. We’ll done,” Cal said.

“Thanks, Cal,” Cody replied.

Cody and Cal noticed Greez was mortally wounded and went to see him.

“We did it, Greez,” Cal said.

“Of course we did, Cal. Cody, the Mantis is yours now, take care of it,” Greez replied with his dying breath.

“I will,” Cody said.

“Farewell, my friends. I’ll finally get to see my family and Cere again,” Greez said.

“Goodbye, Greez,” Cal replied, as he watched his friend pass.

“You know, Cody, the Rebel Alliance could use skilled fighters like you and your friends,” Hera suggested.

“You’ll have to talk with my mother and father about having us and the rest of Equestria join the rebellion,” Cody said.

“Fair enough. We’ll patch in Senator Mothma through Chopper, I’m sure she would like to hear what your parents have to say,” Hera replied.

Unknown to Cody, Twilight, and the others, Blueblood, who stowed away earlier, snuck over to the abandoned village and claimed Malicos’ TIE Reaper as his own then went into hyperspace, headed for Equestria.

Soon enough, the Equestrian fleet along with Phoenix Squadron jumped to hyperspace and returned to Equestria. There, the cruisers rejoined the bulk of the defense fleet and Phoenix Squadron landed their ships on the mountainside. Once Cody, Twilight, and their friends, along with Phoenix Squadron entered the castle, they were joined by Princesses Celestia and Luna, along with Prince Blaze and Commander Dagger.

“Welcome home, Cody,” Celestia greeted.

“Hi, mom. This is Captain Hera Syndulla of Phoenix Squadron, and her crew members, Kanan Jarrus, Ezra Bridger, Sabine Wren, Zeb Orrelios, and C1-10P aka Chopper,” Cody replied, introducing Phoenix Squadron.

“Good to meet you all,” Celestia replied.

“We came because we have an offer for all of you,” Hera said.

“What exactly are you proposing?” Celestia asked.

“We were wondering if you and your people would like to join the Rebel Alliance,” Hera replied.

“I’m not sure about this, ‘cause even though we have a defense fleet, I don’t know if we should risk war with the Empire,” Blaze said.

“With all due respect, Father, this might be the best chance of defending Equestria from the Empire and our victory at Zeffo proves that we are ready,” Cody explained.

“Cody doth make a good point, sister,” Luna pointed out.

“We accept your offer, Phoenix Squadron,” Celestia declared.

It wasn’t long before Chopper and another astromech patched Senators Mothma and Organa’s transmissions through to Phoenix Squadron.

“Senators Mothma and Organa, we’ve completed a successful mission on Zeffo,” Hera said.

“Good to hear, Captain Syndulla,” Senator Mothma replied over the hologram.

“Good to see you again, Master Ando,” Senator Organa added.

“Good to hear from you too, senators. This is my wife, Princess Celestia and sister-in-law, Princess Luna,” Blaze said.

“A pleasure to meet you, princesses,” Senator Organa greeted.

“We received an offer from Phoenix Squadron to join your Rebel Alliance and we accept it, senators,” Celestia said.

“Welcome to the Rebellion,” Senator Organa replied.

“We look forward to meeting you personally, soon,” Senator Mothma said.

“My friends and I also have responsibilities here, but otherwise we’ll be around whenever you need us,” Cody replied, making a salute.

With the transmission ended, Equestria had officially joined the Rebel Alliance and everyone present applauded.

Author's Note

Cast:
Zac Efron
Tara Strong
Tabitha St. Germain
Ashleigh Ball
Andrea Libman
Rebecca Shoichet
Max Charles
Ben Affleck
Temura Morrison
Nicole Oliver
Josh Hutcherson
Josh Peck
Vincent Tong
Britt McKillip
Andrew Francis
Michelle Yeoh
George Clooney
Bruce Greenwood
Vanessa Marshall
Freddie Prinze Jr.
Taylor Gray
Steve Blum
Tiya Sircar
Jemaine Clement
Cameron Monaghan
Debra Wilson
Daniel Roebuck
Tina Ivlev
Hayden Rolence
Michelle Creber
Claire Corlett
Madeleine Peters
Chantal Strand
Shannon Chan-Kent
Liam McIntyre
and Stephen Stanton as Obi-Wan Kenobi

Chapter 1: Arrival at the Mysterious Planet

In the space above Naboo, a YT-2400 freighter was being pursued by five prototype TIE fighters. Onboard, the Jedi Knight Blaze Ando was at the helm with his astromech, R5-G7 beside him. He was 30 years old and wore a dark gray Jedi robe with lighter gray pants and brown boots, he also carried two lightsabers, one given to him by a late friend of his who was killed by General Grievous two years ago. In the seat beside him was his trusted clone trooper, CC-1983 aka Commander Dagger, who had his inhibitor chip removed prior to Order 66. Dagger had black markings on his armor and carried a DC-15A blaster rifle.

“How’s the ship holding up, Dagger?” Blaze asked.

“The shields are holding for now, Blaze. But not for much longer,” Dagger replied.

“Turn the cannons in rear position,” Blaze ordered.

“Right away,” Dagger replied.

The freighter opened fire on the TIE fighters and destroyed all six of them, but they had Star Destroyers coming right at them, one of them being a prototype Imperial I-class, and the rest being Venator-class.

“Be ready to prep the hyperdrive! We’re going under those Star Destroyers,” Blaze said.

“I advise caution, sir. Need I remind you we’re carrying your newborn son who’s currently being tended to by the medical droid,” said Dagger.

“Which is why we need to find a safe planet, away from the Empire,” Blaze replied.

“Which one do you have in mind?” Dagger asked.

“I was thinking somewhere in Wild Space. I’ve heard rumors of a remote planet with a strong connection to the Force. Now, let’s go find this planet,” Blaze replied.

Once the navicomputer was set, they went into hyperspace. Shortly after, the medical droid, 2-1B15 came into the cockpit with the baby.

“How is he?” Blaze asked.

“The infant is healthy for now, but he will need to be fed soon,” the medical droid replied.

“We’ll do that once we reach the mysterious planet,” Blaze said.

“Have you thought of a name for him, Blaze?” Dagger asked.

“I’ll name him ‘Cody’, after the clone commander who served Obi-Wan Kenobi,” Blaze replied, “What do you think, R5?”

R5 beeped in agreement.

Soon enough, they reached their destination.

“I’m detecting massive lifeform readings on this planet and strangely, I’m also detecting one life sign on the planet’s moon, but that’s preposterous, since there’s no air on the moon,” Blaze said.

“I just hope whoever lives on this planet is friendly and generous enough to give us sanctuary,” Dagger said.

R5 beeped in agreement and also whistled with anxiety.

“Whoever lives on this planet, we’ll tell them that we come in peace and I’m sure they’ll welcome us,” Blaze said.

“I hope you’re right,” Dagger replied.

After they entered the atmosphere, Blaze saw a small town and then a mountain with a city on it.

“Let’s land on that mountain over there,” Blaze said.

Shortly after landing, Blaze and company entered the city, they were amazed by its wonders as it reminded Blaze of Theed on Naboo, and then they saw a castle up ahead. Staring at them were equine-looking creatures with hoofed feet, along with manes and fur coats of various colors and they gave each other strange looks.

Just then, a group of guards came up to them with spears and other weapons at the ready and one of them said, “State your business, outsiders.”

“My name is Blaze Ando, this is my son, Cody, and my friends Commander Dagger and R5-G7, my droid. We come in peace and seek sanctuary,” Blaze said.

“Our princess will be the judge of that,” the lead guard said.

Blaze began using a Jedi mind trick and said “You will take us to your princess now.”

“We will take you our princess now,” the guard repeated.

“You do not want to restrain us,” Blaze said.

“We do not want to restrain you,” the guard repeated.

The guards escorted them to the palace, Blaze decided to make small talk and said, “Pardon me. If I may ask, what’s your name?”

“I’m Captain Valiant Knight and beside me is my second-in-command, Lieutenant Lancer,” the guard replied.

“Good to meet you, captain. You too, lieutenant,” Dagger greeted.

“Likewise, commander,” Lancer replied in an uneasy tone.

Once at inside the castle, they were escorted to the throne room and saw a white pony with a horn and wings. Blaze and Dagger immediately assumed this was the princess, she was roughly half a foot taller than Blaze and had G-cup breasts. She also wore a gold crown and chest-piece, along with a white royal robe with slits on the sides showing off her legs, gold arm bracelets and slippers.

Blaze easily took notice of her curvy and voluptuous figure, but kept his cool, then he and Dagger bowed down before her as she got up from the throne to meet them.

“You may rise, travelers,” the princess said, “Guards, leave us.”

“My name is Blaze Ando, and this is Commander Dagger, my droid R5-G7, and my son, Cody. We come in peace and seek sanctuary,” Blaze said as he rose.

“A pleasure to meet you, Blaze. My name is Princess Celestia,” The princess replied.

“It’s great to meet you, Princess Celestia,” said Blaze as he kissed her hand, “By the way, what planet are we on?”

“This is Equestria, you are in the capital city of Canterlot,” Celestia replied, “May I see your son, please?”

Blaze gave Cody to Celestia and she said, “He’s so precious and such a sweet little one. What happened to his mother?”

“She died giving birth to him earlier today. Do you think you can feed him please?” Blaze said.

“My deepest sympathies. I’ll get right on that,” Celestia replied as she performed a stimulation spell on herself allowing her to lactate.

With that, Cody immediately began feeding from her. She smiled at this as she took in instant liking to him. Once Cody was finished, Celestia placed him on her shoulder and gently patted his back until he let out a soft burp, and then she hugged him softly towards her chest.

“Can you and Dagger tell me more about yourselves?” Celestia asked.

“I am a Jedi Knight and I was born on the planet of Naboo,” Blaze replied.

“I’m a clone trooper, born on the ocean planet of Kamino,” Dagger added.

“The Jedi were peacekeepers dedicated to protecting the galaxy and everyone in it, we were in cooperation with the Galactic Republic for all the one thousand years it stood. More recently there was conflict in the galaxy; the Clone War, which lasted for roughly three years and billions died on both sides, Republic and Separatists alike. The Confederacy of Independent Systems, also called the Separatist Alliance, comprised of various star systems that seceded from the Republic, and was publicly led by a Sith Lord named Count Dooku. We Jedi were generals in the Grand Army of the Republic and had masses of clone troopers at our service until the end of the war, shortly after the deaths of Count Dooku and supreme commander of the droid army, General Grievous, Chancellor Palpatine revealed his true identity as the Sith Lord Darth Sidious and declared Order 66, which was given to all the clone troopers and led most of the Jedi to be killed off, including my old master, Plo Koon. Very few Jedi survived, including Obi-Wan Kenobi, Master Yoda, the wisest of us, and myself. it was also when we all lost a great friend, the Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker, who was then consumed by the dark side and became the Sith Lord Darth Vader. Now, the Republic has become the Galactic Empire, and the Empire seeks total control of the galaxy and everyone in it,” Blaze explained.

“All of us clone troopers had inhibitor chips planted in our heads so we could take any order without question, that’s why they followed Order 66, but I was lucky not to receive the order since I had my inhibitor chip removed beforehand. The Republic won the Clone War but not in the way we had hoped. Blaze and I were on the moon of Pantora when Order 66 happened. We had wiped out the invading Separatist forces led by Count Dooku’s Sith apprentice, a Trandoshan called Darth Claw. Blaze defeated him in a duel and, then Claw fled. Afterwards, when the order was given, the very clone troopers in our unit betrayed us, we tried going to Admiral Tarkin for help, but he betrayed us too and ordered the fleet to destroy us. We managed to escape to Naboo where we met Cody’s birth mother and took refuge in a Gungan village and stayed there for a year, until today when we bought a YT-2400 freighter, the ship we came here on,” Dagger added.

“I’m very sorry that happened to you both. You are welcome to stay here with me in the castle, I’ll have the maids prepare your new rooms right away,” Celestia replied.

“Thank you, Princess Celestia,” Blaze said.

Hours passed, Blaze and Dagger headed off to their new chambers, while Cody was given a crib inside Celestia’s chambers to sleep in. After lowering the sun and raising the moon, Celestia kissed Cody on his face and gently placed him in the crib, then quietly said to him, “Good night, Cody.”

Chapter 8: First Day of School / A Sleepover with Cadance

Five months later

It was the beginning of the fall season, Cody had finished eating breakfast with his family.

“Are you ready for your first day of school, Cody?” Celestia asked.

“I don’t know, mommy. What if the other foals hate me like Blueblood does?” Cody replied.

“I’m pretty sure most of them will be nice to you like Sunset and Twilight are,” Celestia said.

Cody blushed at the very mention of Twilight, then asked, “Will I be going to school with her and Sunset?”

“I’m afraid not at the moment, you’ve only scratched the surface of your Force abilities. For the time being, you’re going to Canterlot Grade School,” Blaze replied.

Once Cody put his shoulder bag on, Cadance walked him to school.

“I’ll be here to pick you up at 3 pm. Have a nice day, little cuz,” Cadance said as she hugged Cody.

“Bye, Cady,” Cody replied.

Soon enough, Cody went into the classroom and met up with his teacher. He was a bright green earth pony stallion with a black and red streaked mane and tail, lavender eyes, and a pine tree with two crossed pencils for a cutie mark. He also wore a gray shirt and red pants with his cutie mark on them.

“Morning, my new class. I’m your kindergarten teacher, Mr. Pencil Pine,” the teacher said.

“Hi, Mr. Pencil Pine,” the whole class including Cody greeted.

Once the class started, Pencil Pine went on telling the students what they were going to learn throughout the year as Cody listened.

Later on, it was time for recess. He then met a seven-year-old yellowish orange pegasus colt with a blue mane and tail, blue eyes, and a shield with a lightning bolt for a cutie mark. He also wore a black long-sleeve shirt over a white short-sleeve and blue-green pants.

“Hi, Prince Cody. I’m Flash Sentry,” the colt said, “My mom told me about you, she’s a maid at the castle.”

“Good to meet you, Flash,” Cody replied before asking, “Is Kimono your mom?”

“Yes. Do you know her?” Flash asked.

“She’s my foalsitter,” Cody replied.

“Nice. Have you met my big sister, Misty Sky?” Flash asked.

“Yes. She’s friends with my cousin, Cadance,” Cody replied, “Do you want to be my friend?”

“Sure. I’ll be your friend,” said Flash.

As recess went on Cody and Flash played together, then he also explained to Flash about the Equestria’s place in the galaxy, as well as the Force, the Jedi and the Sith, and the Empire.

“Over the past few months since the week after my fifth birthday, I’ve been training to be a Jedi,” Cody said, “I also had a very bad Force vision on the night of my fifth birthday.”

“That’s great. It’s a shame you saw something so terrible,” Flash replied.

“My father takes it seriously. He and my uncle Dagger have been going on salvaging missions to acquire building material and weapons for building effective defenses against the Empire, in case they find our planet. He ordered a huge construction project of starfighters and such,” Cody explained.

Later in the day, the bell rang signaling all the foals that the first day of school was over.

“See you soon, Flash,” Cody said.

“You too, Cody,” Flash replied.

Just then, Cadance came to the entrance and hugged Cody.

“Hi, Cady!” Cody said.

“Hi, Cody! Everything ok on your first day at school?” Cadance asked.

“Yes. I made a new friend, his name’s Flash Sentry and he’s your friend Misty’s brother,” Cody replied.

“Nice. Any new friends in your kindergarten class?” Cadance asked.

“No, the other foals in my class don’t seem to pay any attention to me,” Cody replied.

After Cody’s Jedi training ended for the day, he was having dinner with his family. As always, he, Blaze, and Dagger had fish with their meals. Blueblood, as always sat away from the others.

Once dinner was finished, Cody went grabbed his father’s shaving cream, then went into the lounge where Blueblood was laying on the couch. Using the Force, he sprayed it into Blueblood’s dangling left hand, then got a feather duster and ran it down Blueblood’s face. This triggered a reflex action leading his hand to splat the shaving cream on his face.

Cody then left the lounge laughing very hard, then he put the shaving cream back in the bathroom and heard Blueblood shout in anger, “CODY!!! When I find you, you’ll be sorry and I’m gonna beat you until you pass out!”

Cody ran as quickly as he could hoping to find his parents, Dagger, or Cadance. All of a sudden, Blueblood spotted him and shouted, “There you are, you little flat-faced freak!” Cody screamed, then ran until he reached Cadance’s room. He knocked on her door repeatedly shouting, “Cady! Help me! Cady, let me in! Cady, please let me in!”

Cadance opened her door and noticed Cody whimpering and hugging her tightly with red eyes.

“Cody, what’s wrong?” Cadance asked.

“Blueblood’s after me and he’s gonna hit me again!” Cody replied with fear.

“Shhh..Calm down, Cody. I’ll handle him,” Cadance said.

“Girls, can you keep an eye on Cody while I have a talk with Blueblood?” Cadance asked.

Her friends nodded in response, then said, “Hi, Cody.”

“Hi, girls,” Cody replied, “What’s going on here?”

“Cadance invited us here for a sleepover,” Diamond Rose said.

“What’s new with you, Lemony Gem?” Cody asked.

“I’m dating a really nice colt named Hoity Toity,” Lemony Gem replied.

“I’ve heard he’s looking into joining the fashion business one day,” Cody said.

Meanwhile, in the hallway outside, Blueblood tried to enter the room hearing Cody talking, but Cadance blocked him.

“Cadance, get out of my way!” Blueblood said.

“No! I will not let you hit Cody again! Why are you chasing him?” Cadance asked.

“He pranked me, through reflex making me splat shaving cream in my face!” Blueblood replied.

“He wouldn’t have done it if you hadn’t hit him or picked on him in the first place,” Cadance said. “Don’t try to challenge me, for my magical power and connection to the Force exceeds your own and I’d win a fight against you.”

“Fine! I’m outta here, and I’m telling Aunt Celestia what he did to me,” Blueblood replied.

“No, I’ll tell her you were chasing Cody and that you tried to hit him again, you deserved that prank,” Cadance said.

Blueblood left grumbling to himself, then Cadance went back in her room to rejoin her friends and Cody.

“Cady, since I’m here, can I stay with you and the girls tonight?” Cody asked.

“Sure, little cuz. I just need to tell Aunt Celestia and Uncle Blaze you’re with me tonight,” Cadance said.

Soon enough, Cody, Cadance, and the other girls were playing ‘Truth or Dare’.

“Cadance, truth or dare?” Fleur asked.

“Dare,” Cadance replied.

“I dare you to hold Cody upside-down,” Fleur said.

Cadance gently flipped Cody upside-down with her magic.

“Whoa!” Cody yelped.

He put his hands on Cadance’s legs just to keep himself steady. Afterwards, Cadance flipped him back to a right-side up position and back on her lap.

“Girls, I think Cody should have a turn,” Cadance said.

“Fleur, truth, or dare?” Cody asked.

“Truth,” Fleur replied.

“Do you have a crush on anypony?” Cody asked.

Fleur blushed upon hearing that, she hesitated until she answered, “Yes. A colt named Fancy Pants. We bumped into each other just five months ago.”

After everyone finished Truth or Dare and a round of 20 Questions, Misty Sky decided to tell a ghost story. Before the others could say a word, all at once Misty’s tone changed into something spooky, something… sinister as she said, “This story is called The Legend of the Headless Pony…”

The thunder clashed, putting Cody on edge. Cadance and the others tries to put on calm faces since they’ve listened to and told these kinds of stories before.

“It was a dark and stormy night, just like this one,” Misty began, “And ponies were having a slumber party, just like this one…”

Another lightning flash appeared, displaying the howling rain and the outside of the castle. By then, Cody and the others trembled from each side. He hugged Cadance tightly, not wanting her to let go of him as he was scared. Misty was just near the end of her ghost story.

“… And just when the last pony thought she was safe…” Misty continued in a low voice. “There, standing right behind her, just inches away was – The Headless Horse!”

A gasp escaped from Cody and the others’ lips in complete unison before another thunder clash sent them screaming and Misty reappeared with a blanket over her head making her look headless. Cody screamed as he kept hugging Cadance tightly. Once the story was over, Cadance patted Cody lovingly as she loosened her arms.

“It’s alright, Cody. The story is over,” Cadance said.

“Good. ‘Cause that story was nearly as scary as my first Force vision,” Cody replied.

Cody, Cadance, and the others turned on the portable holocaster and watched a speeder bike race on the HoloNet. Cody and Cadance enjoyed watching races on the HoloNet, every night, they always watched it with Celestia, Blaze, Dagger, and even R5 and Padme. Now they were sharing this experience with friends, as they got their first taste of such advanced tech.

Soon enough, it was time for everyone to go to sleep. Fleur, Diamond Rose, Lemony Gem, and Misty Sky were laying in their sleeping bags. Cody was sleeping with Cadance in her bed, he soon fell asleep in his cousin’s embrace.