The Pony Guard (Season 5)

by MXCDarkHorse2020

Chapters

Episode 2: The Cutie Map Part Two
Episode 3: Let Sleeping Crocs Lie
Episode 4: Castle Sweet Castle
Episode 5: Tanks for the Memories
Episode 7: Swept Away
Episode 8: Make New Friends But Keep Discord
Episode 9: Rafiki's New Neighbors
Episode 10: The Lost Treasure of Griffonstone
Episode 11: Rescue in the Outlands
Episode 12: The Ukumbusho Tradition
Episode 13: Slice of Life (MLP's 100th episode and TPG's 150th episode)
Episode 14: Princess Bunga
Episode 15: Party Pooped
Episode 16: The Bite of Kenge
Episode 17: Amending Fences Part One
Episode 18: Amending Fences Part Two
Episode 19: Do Princess Dream of Magic Sheep?
Episode 20: Queen of Thieves Part One
Episode 21: Queen of Thieves Part Two
Episode 22: Queen of Thieves Part Three
Episode 23: Queen of Thieves Part Four
Episode 24: Canterlot Boutique
Episode 25: Scare Master
Episode 27: The Un-Bunga-veilable Investigation
Episode 28: Made In Manehattan
Episode 29: Brotherhooves Social
Episode 30: The Golden Zebra
Episode 31: Crusaders of the Lost Mark
Episode 32: The One Where Pinkie and Ono Knows
Episode 33: A Hearth's Warming and Christmas Tale
Episode 34: The Little Guy
Episode 36: The Hooffields and McColts
Episode 37: The Mane Attraction
Episode 39: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part One
Episode 40: The Cutie Remark and The Scorpion's Sting Part Two
Episode 41: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part Three
Episode 42: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part Four
Episode 1: The Cutie Map Part One
Episode 6: Appleoosa's Most Wanted
Episode 26: The Morning Report
Episode 35: What About Discord?
Episode 38: Divide and Conquer

Episode 2: The Cutie Map Part Two

Episode 2:

The Cutie Map Part Two:

After being defeated and having their cutie marks, powers and abilities taken away, the whole team was placed inside a contained, sealed up cottage with speakers, where Starlight's voice continued to speak, driving many of the ponies insane. She was trying to coax them into accepting her philosophy, but they would not allow it, not ever.

Kion could only look on in dismay with what had unfolded in front of him. First his best friend is harshly outed for her past sins and forced to fly away in shame. Then, Kyoga was given the same treatment like she is an evil witch. And despite being prepared for the fight and trap Starlight had set up for them, they wind up falling victim to the equalizing process of her philosophy. Now he can’t speak again having lost his voice in the process too.

“How is this possible?!” He thought to himself if he could speak.

At the same time, Rainbow Dash continued trying to kick down the door, but her strength along with her athleticism was completely drained to the point it was rendered futile at this point.

"Give it up, Rainbow Dash." Applejack said, "You've been trying this for hours. It's not gonna open and not even a...um…" She tried to find the right words to say but her equal sign cutie mark glowed and prevented her from doing so. “…open it. Shoot, I can’t seem to speak countryisms anymore.” The blue Pegasus lowered her ears and wings in dismay.

Pinkie Pie was spending the time looking at several books, which only had pictures of equal signs. "Hey, this is pretty good!"

“Is it really?” Ono asked dully, seeing no significance in any of it. To him it’s looking at plain symbol of imprisonment which currently reflects on what’s happening to everypony here in Starlight’s village. “For pony’s sake…” He grumbled before flying into the ongoing speaker and braving the strong sonic waves to bite his teeth onto the inner mechanisms. “…Come on…” He felt something pull and out came the microphone part of the device and wound up falling backwards. “…Got it!” But to his dismay the ongoing voice still went on. “Oh…fudge…this…!” He irritable flew black up and just chomped on the wires, even enduring a brief electrocution for the sake of shutting that darn device off.

“You okay?” Fluttershy worryingly asked as she scooped him up in her arms.

“Affirmative.” He weakly croaked before passing out.

Rarity was left crying of their predicament, "You're not alone, darling! Oh, this is horrible!"

Fluttershy tried to reassure her friend, "There, there, Rarity... It's not so bad…"

"Yes, it is! Look at those drapes!" she pointed to said drapes on the window, which were worn, colorless, and old, "I have no idea if they're tacky or not!"

"Well, I think they're nice."

The equal cutie mark on Rarity's flank glowed grey, which only made the poor unicorn cry louder. "So do I!"

Fluttershy spotted a bird on the window sill, "Oh, thank goodness! Can you help us, little birdie?" She asked hopefully. The bird tweeted in response, but then Fluttershy's new cutie mark glowed grey too thus she could no longer understand what the bird was saying. "Go on, now! Fly away and get us help!" She pleaded of him. But the bird flew away not understanding a word she said. "Oh, even tweets don't make sense anymore!"

Both Rainbow and Applejack both kept trying to break the door with no success.

“Here. Let me try…” Beshte offered before moving to charge at the door himself. But he did little but bump into it in contrast to what he intended. He gave it a few more attempts before giving up. “Come on…” He panted feeling worn down. “…sorry. I thought I had enough strength there. Guess I’m still too out of shape for heavy pushing.”

"I don't know!" Pinkie said, trying to lift everyone’s spirits. "Maybe it'll be super fun to be all the same!" Then her cutie mark glowed grey too and her voice then became bored and serious instead. "Sort of. More pleasant than fun, I guess…"

Bunga was left confused. “…No, no, no. Definitely fun! Definitely…” His gray mark glowed likewise. “…what am I talking about? What’s the point?” He clasped his paws over his mouth. “No! That did not come out of my mouth!”

“Sadly, it did.” Fuli dully remarked before walking over to Kion who is still sullen over what happened with a piece of paper and a pencil for him to write on. “It’ll be okay, Kion. They didn’t get Twilight and Kyoga. They’re probably still around to check up on us.”

Kion frowned in response yet unable to say a word due to his condition before writing it down on the paper before handing it back to her.

“Do you know for sure?! Last I saw they both ran and flew out and deserted us out of sight!”

“Well…” Fuli spoke taken aback by his irritated response. “…whether it takes all day, I’m definitely sure they didn’t forget about us and would never abandon us, not even if their lives depended on it.”

Then Kion had written down. “Then where are there?! Huh?!”

“I don’t know.” Fuli honestly replied. “Nor do I know about the staff that was used to strip us of our special abilities in the first place.

“That’s true.” Ono chimed in on their conversation. “There was something odd about that staff. I remember studying about Eastern unicorns not too long ago with Twilight, and I’m pretty sure Meadowbrook only had eight magical items, not nine. And I don't remember any of them being a staff."

Fuli seemed to agree after taking the egret’s word on the matter. “Hmm, sounds like a pretty big red flag if you seem know that well, wouldn’t you say?” She turned to Kion who written down another note and then handed it to her. “I thought so.”

“What did he say?”

“Then that’s something we need to investigate on.” Fuli read Kion’s notes word for word. “But first thing’s first is we need to figure out how.”

“Um, I’d hate to break to you, Kion. But this door's not opening. We tried everything. Even Beshte at his weakest can’t knock it down."

“Sorry.” He panted while his legs just collapsed.

"And I'm afraid the windows are much too small for escape." Rarity added trying really hard not to look at the window’s hideous drapes.

“So what’s our third option, then?” Applejack asked just when a surge of magic was felt inside the cottage.

"Us." Twilight said with a smile as she and Kyoga appeared right inside much to their delight and relief.

Just when Bunga and Pinkie gasped happily their rescuers quickly covered their mouths to keep them from alerting anypony outside.

“Shh!” Twilight quickly shushed the two. “In order for it to work, you can’t shout. Got it.” Both nodded in agreement before the alicorn motioned the others to huddle together. “Quickly!”

Once huddled together, the group was instantly teleported out of the room and inside a cottage just nearby the train station. Not too far from the mountains leading down to the village but close by enough to see what’s going on without being spotted.

Now that it was safe to talk, everyone all cheered to the best of their ability before hugging her.

Applejack was the first to express her gratitude. “Oh, thank goodness you came back! We thought you were long gone.”

“Who me?” She asked as if it was a joke. “Come on, this is me you’re talking too, I would never leave anyone behind.”

“Well we’re glad you did! In fact we’re more happy then…um…” Her grey cutie mark glowed again. “…sorry, countryisms for me has been taken away from me when Starlight used her staff against us and Kion lost his voice there.”

“Again?”

“Eeyup.”

“And let me guess what else, Rainbow lost her speed?”

“Eeyup.”

Twilight turned to Fuli. “You lost yours?”

“Eeyup.”

“And Beshte.”

“Eeyup.”

“Pinkie and Bunga lost their bubbly happy self’s?”

“Eeyup.” They likewise replied dully.

“Ono lose his keen sight?”

“Affirmative.” He replied while barely able to look on at what’s in front of him afar.

“And Fluttershy can’t speak to any critters?”

“I’m afraid so, Twilight.”

“Well, no need to worry, everypony, everyone.” She quickly assured not deterred in the slightest. “Like I said before, I have a plan to sort everything out.”

"Of course!" Pinkie Pie jumped taking a wild guess of what that could be. "Eventually the wind and the weather will wear down the walls until they start to crumble! Then all we have to do is wait for a big enough hole to form and we can just walk out! It's the perfect plan!" Her cutie mark glowed once more, causing her enthusiasm to drop, "I guess."

“Anyways…” She continued. “…now that you’re all out of here. Now we can focus on getting your cutie marks back. So that being said, they’ll just let you all out when they think you've accepted their philosophy!"

"But they're never gonna believe we switched over in just one night." Ono stated.

"There's two of you they might believe."

All eyes fell on a specific pony with yellow coat and long pink hair and the only hippo in the Guard with knowing smiles.

Fluttershy’s eyes widened in realization. "Oh! Me?!"

“Really?” Beshte asked unsure whether she was serious or not.

"Of course! You've been saying how great this place is since we got here!" Kyoga explained.

"But that's because everypony's so nice and their village is so pretty, and, and…" Fluttershy's shoulders dropped and she realized how it makes sense of why she would be chosen for the job. "Oh, you're right. They probably would believe me. I hate to lie to them. They've been so welcoming and friendly... aside from taking away our powers, locking us in here and trying to brainwash us into abandoning the things we believe in and that make us special… Okay. I'll do it."

Pinkie Pie leaped for joy along with Bunga."Woo-hoo!" Their marks glowed again and were both rendered emotionless. "I mean, cool."

“Whatever.”

Now it was Beshte’s turn to wonder why he’s selected to carry out this task. “And what about me? Why me too?”

“Because if you do, then Starlight will see than residents from the Pride Lands will want to join her cause, and what better way of earning her trust more than having the Lion Guard’s Strongest and Kindest companion alongside Fluttershy?”

“Well…” He thought about it. “…I mean didn’t really think badly about them at first and Fluttershy did have a point about how we should probably treat them even after everything that had happened. And from the looks of it, they truly did seem friendly.”

“Exactly my point.” Twilight smiled.

“Pretty good idea…” Ono approved but had this to say. “…expect for one big heavy liner being how are we going to pull this off if we’re all the way out here right now and not in there?!” He yelled and pointed out towards the cottage they’re supposed to be in.

Twilight still was calm in response to this outburst. “Easy.” She said as she worked her horn into creating some magic that had the others smiling and on board with her plan.

By the time morning came around, Starlight eventually opened the door to briefly let the Lion and Pony Guard out. "Oh, good morning! I trust you had a pleasant night? This way, please. There are some friends who'd like to see you." as she walked out the door, the rest of the group smiled hopefully at their two friends.

Once outside, Starlight addressed to the 'happy' citizens. "Gather round, friends, gather round! We've come to ask if any of you are ready to join us! There are so many friends to be made once you realize you don't need your cutie marks or even the talents and powers you once had as well."

"We have a welcome ceremony for new friends!" Double Diamond cheerfully added. "The whole village joins together to build you your own cottage—"

"Not interested!" Rainbow exclaimed in stubborn refusal. "You may have them now, but we're going to get our cutie marks back!"

Ono flew right beside Rainbow as he spoke to the crowd. “Don't you understand? You can't force anyone to be friends! It doesn't work like that!" Kion nodded in approval with his best choice words in the matter.

"Please, join us!"

"We love new friends!"

They pleaded.

"It's all right, everypony." said Starlight, "This is a perfectly normal part of the equalization process for those who haven't... quite seen the light yet. We'll try again tomorrow once you've had a bit more time to consider our philosophy!"

The friends all made their way back inside, but only Beshte remained outside. He used his side to gently nudge Fluttershy, who then said to the crowd almost immediately, "I'd like to join!"

She quickly covered her mouth, and Beshte stepped forward as well. "So would I."

The ponies all began to happily chatter, knowing they will not have only one, but two new friends today with one of them being fellow Pride Lander a human no less. Starlight Glimmer smiled being very pleased to hear it from them.

“Beshte?!” Bunga exclaimed acting betrayed. “How could you?!"

“Sorry Little B, but they’re offering me a chance to actually let me feel like I belong here.” He said with an apologetic yet firm tone.

“But, but…” Bunga could not stop himself from crying. “…I can’t live without you! Don’t go!”

Ono also kept up the act too. “After all we have been through together, this is the life you choose!”

“If giving up my cutie mark means I get to stay in this lovely village with these lovely ponies, then I'll do it." She firmly said, though smiled awkwardly. The rest of the team smiled to themselves once the door was shut closed.

"We have new friends, everypony!" Starlight said to the happy crowd. The plan was working perfectly. However, Beshte and Fluttershy were not quite free just yet. "Now, there's one more order of business." Starlight said to the town, "It seems some in our midst might be... dissatisfied with the village life!"

The ponies all gasped in confused shock and muttered while Party Favor, Night Glider and Sugar Belle looked at one another with worry knowing exactly what she is talking about. "Unfortunately, it's all too true, my friends!" Starlight then turned to Fluttershy, "Will one of you kindly tell us the names of those friends who so desperately miss their cutie marks that they would sneak around in the shadows talking to strangers about it? Just so we can be sure your intentions are indeed pure."

Inside, Fluttershy gulped nervously while Beshte looked unsure of what to say in response before setting with. "You know to tell you the truth, I’m not quite sure. I couldn’t quite catch their names, I mean you’re Starfire?”

“Starlight Glimmer.” She corrected with a smile but still wasn’t convinced. “And I know for a fact that someone did tell you if the cutie mark vault has been brought up someway somehow.”

Fluttershy began to sweat as she tried to back him up. "But you know he’s not wrong. I mean, sometimes I can't even remember the names of my critter friends back home."

Starlight still was too smart for that. "Nonsense! Obviously these ponies must have asked you directly. Kindly point them out!"

Beshte spotted the three ponies who she and the others had spoken to the day before. Their terrified looks made her feel sympathy for them knowing they’re cornered. He couldn't find it in his heart to tell and see to it that they’ll get in trouble and Fluttershy couldn't either. Luckily for them, one of them decided to take the heat for them.

"It was me!"

The crowd dispersed to reveal Party Favor, who had confessed he was the one who wanted his cutie mark back, especially Sugar Belle and Night Glider since it means he is taking the blame like that. He walked up to their leader and knelled down before her.

"It was only me! But I only wanted it back for a little while!"

Starlight lifted up his chin, making sweat as he is forced to look at her in the eyes. "And you're quite certain it was only you?"

"I just wanted to remember what it was like."

"And no thought to the pain you'd cause your friends. Such selfishness." She said disappointingly before ordering for him to be locked inside the cottage with the others.

"I'm sorry, everypony! I never wanted to leave the village! I love all of—" He was cut off mid-sentence as the door slammed in his face and Sugar Belle and Night Glider looked on with regret and shock.

Sure they understood why he did and how noble and selfless his sacrifice was, but still they didn’t feel any less guilty since it led to Twilight getting kicked out of town and friendly visitors they could see as friends are all locked up inside.

Party Favor rammed his horn into the door in despair. "What was I thinking?! I can't believe I even considered asking for my cutie mark back." He then felt a gentle paw on his shoulder courtesy of Kion smiling at him to assure him that everything will be all right. Even though he can’t speak his expressions alone are enough for him to get the idea.

"Don't worry." Rainbow Dash said what Kion could have said on behalf of the team. "Fluttershy and Beshte will have us out of here in no time!"

Though Party Favor wasn’t still convinced. “ "Didn't you see what just happened out there?! Your friends have accepted our way! You will all accept our way! It's only a matter of time!" he whimpered before laying down sadly at the corner of the room while Kion continued to keep his spirits up. With his voice gone, all she could do was be there for him.

“This guy sure is a barrel of laughs." Ono said sarcastically.

"Laughs don't come in barrels." Pinkie said flatly in response. "They come from inside you as your body's response to delight."

“Right…” Ono slinked away from the dull mare as far as he can. “…I get it.”

Before anything else, exact duplicates of them appeared right inside the cottage and the real ponies and Pride Landers were all transported back outside to the safe house.

“What the…?” Party Favor was now really confused. “…what’s going on?”

“Shh…” Twilight calmly got him to be quiet. “…It’s all part of the plan.”

“But what about my friends?” He pointed out the obvious. “They’ll know the second they check up on you inside the cottage.”

“Not if they ‘think’ they’re still in there.” Twilight showed him the duplicates inside enduring being locked inside along with Starlight’s voice with the fixed megaphone though Twilight plugged the plug on that immediately.

“So like copies of yourselves.” Party Favor asked after getting the idea. “But what exactly is going to happen next?”

“Yeah?” Applejack had to agree with him on that. “What are we gonna do while Fluttershy and Beshte are out there lookin' for our cutie marks?"

"We have to stay as positive as we can." Twilight answered. "If Party Favor sees how much we really do like each other, even though we're all different, maybe we can use him to spread our message to the rest of the village."

"Let's hope they don't convert any of us first." Rarity said still hoping that their friends know what they are doing.

Continuing her assurances to the pony that locked them she smiled at him. “Don’t worry. You’re in safer hooves now.”

Party Favor smiled at the compassion she and Kion were showing seeing that they are truly friends they can trust going forward.

Back in town…

"Welcome!"

The ponies greeted Fluttershy and Beshte as they were walking by as Starlight led the way.

"Gosh, you really are the nicest ponies I've ever met." Fluttershy said to the smiling ponies.

“No kidding.” Beshte said to agree with her even though that’s not really true as Starlight spoke to them.

"Come. All new friends stay with me until their cottage is completed. I do hope the door’s big enough for you to get through, Beshte."

“I’ll think I’ll be okay.” He said as he is the first to try to get inside. “Come on. No, no, come on, keep pushing.” It took several seconds of squeezing and struggling but he was able to push himself inside with a forced grunt.

“Oh, sorry. Had I been aware that you were going to be here I would have accommodated for wide loads sooner.” She snickered to herself even though it was loud enough for him to hear it and causing him to poke his head back outside so he can frown upon her for saying that.

“Starlight!” Fluttershy having heard that didn’t like it. “That’s very rude of you!”

"Huh?” Starlight turned to see Fluttershy frowning in her direction. “Oops, did I say that out loud. I’m sorry. Where are my manners?"

“Apparently forgotten.” She bluntly remarked back to which surprised the mare seeing that this is the first that somepony actually has the nerve to talk back to her. But none of the less, she still guided them to her home at the center of the village.

"Anyways, let's get you both settled, and then you can enjoy all that our little village has to offer."

The two spotted both Night Glider and Sugar Belle, smiling and waving at them. Only their smiles were those of concern and worry than happy inside of forced for the sake of Starlight’s demands. They both walked into the house, while Starlight gave one final glance outside, making sure there it stays that way.

Once inside, Beshte looked around the place. So far it was definitely roomy enough for his large size, but nothing useful from first glance. Starlight led the two to their room upstairs, where Beshte spotted a chimney in the ordinary bedroom they are briefly staying in. "Here you are. If you need anything, just ask." She said before closing the door, and without another word.

“Okay Twilight…” Fluttershy said through her hidden earpiece. Said ear-device was big enough to fit her ear but her long pink mane served as the perfect mask to hide it. “…we’re in. So now what?

“Now….” The alicorn’s voice spoke through her communication device. “…I need you to get out without being spotted and keep an eye on Starlight.”

“For how long?”

“Long enough to find and exploit any secrets Starlight is keeping and by that I mean where she’s keeping your cutie marks and what else she’s hiding.”

“Like what?”

“Ever noticed how colorful her coat and mane are?” Fluttershy was now confused. “Like us or not before Starlight took your cutie marks away? Look at her more closely because deep down looks from certain ponies and lions can be deceiving.”

She wasn’t quite sure of how to do it, but she’ll still carry it out regardless. “Okay.”

“Great. And Beshte…”

“Yes, Twilight?”

“Stay and watch the door and make sure Starlight doesn’t come inside in case she comes back.”

“You got it, Twilight.”

“If anything goes wrong, contact me right away. I’ll be there in a flash.”

After saying what needed to be said, Twilight smiled to herself as she looked on and saw that everything was going along accordingly.

Once it was nighttime, Beshte made sure Starlight wasn’t around while Fluttershy got the chance to sneak up the chimney and make her way out without being spotted. After adjusting the mattress to make it look like Fluttershy is sleeping in bed, Beshte moved to rest his legs on the floor so he can make it look like he too is sleeping.

After getting herself out of the chimney, she coughed and shook the sooth off of her coat. "Okay, Fluttershy. Move around and keep an eye on Starlight. That's all you've gotta do. Just sneak through the dark and find any hidden secrets she up her hooves." She flew her way down trying to keep a sharp ear for her voice without getting caught even though she wished she had Ono with her to guide her through her hidden fears. "Okay, you're doing great. Now I just need to find her and stay out of sight. But where is she?"

"Excellent work, Double Diamond."

She suddenly sprinted up towards the roof to see the unicorn levitating a box of jars as she and her unwitting accomplice walked back inside.

"Of course, but I don't understand why you wanted me to bring them here. Fluttershy and Beshte are one of us now. Surely they can be trusted."

Starlight levitated the jars, which were revealed to contain the Mane Five's cutie marks, and The Lion Guard’s (sans Kyoga’s) marks, "One of these belongs to an alicorn prince. This could be very important to our cause."

"But if Kion becomes our friend, then why do we care about this old cutie mark? And what about Twilight? What if she comes back once she finds out what you have done to them?"

Unbeknownst to them, Beshte managed to slowly tip-toe his way out so he can listen from above.

"I just want to keep them close until everything is... settled. And as for Twilight, let’s just say this provides me reason for her to see things my way. You may go, Double Diamond."

Fluttershy quickly ducked out of sight once he left the house. "Now I know where the cutie marks are."

Beshte suddenly heard Starlight approaching and tried to rush back inside to his room before she could see her. Unfortunately, he’s not light on his feet enough to quickly move fast enough without getting caught. With no other options, he moved to take a small leap of faith back inside the room and just managed to evade being spotted by the unicorn walking by. The force of the leap ended up shaking up Starlight’s ground as she ended up stumbling as a result.

Thankfully, Starlight herself was able to hold onto the jars to keep them from breaking but ended crashing and having water spilled onto her.

"Ow!"

Fluttershy having heard it from outside flew over to Starlight's room, peeking in through the window and managed to spot her undetected as she placed the jars on the table and dried herself off.

"Ugh! Starlight, you clumsy foal!" She berated herself just as Fluttershy managed to catch a glimpse at a startling discovery…

Starlight Glimmer's cutie mark was a fake!

Instead of an equal sign, it was the image of a star with aquamarine swirled around it. She neatly placed makeup over it, hiding it from view and then made another equal symbol over it.

"Oh, no…"

“Fluttershy…” Twilight’s voice spoke to her from her earphone. “…what did you learn?”

“Something very shocking!”

“Perfect!” Fluttershy was surprised like she is figuring out that she expected her to come across this discovery, but none of the less, didn’t question it for the sake of the plan.

The next morning, Starlight along with the rest of the town ponies all looked on as the real Lion and Pony Guard emerged from the cottage. Thanks to Twilight, they all had sufficient sleep, but they are still bitter from being stripped of their powers and talents.

"I've got a good feeling about today!" She said as Fluttershy and Beshte stood beside her. "So, do any of you have anything you'd like to say?" The ponies and teens remained silent. "Aw, pity. I mean I kinda expected no response from you Kion…” The lion himself scowled in response. “…but still too bad. Well, let's try this again tomorrow, shall we? No new friends today, I'm afraid!"

From atop of the nearby roof where Twilight and Kyoga hid from view, the former nodded at the two to press forward.

"Wait!" Flutteshy spoke up. "I'd like to lock them in."

"Marvelous, Fluttershy! That's the spirit! Party Favor, will you join us, please?"

While Fluttershy led her friends back inside, Party Favor galloped out and hugged Starlight's legs practicing begging for mercy. "I'm sorry, Starlight! I'm sorry, everypony! I've seen the error of my ways! I never want to look at my cutie mark again!" From behind, Kion smiled seeing this.

"It seems there's cause for celebration after all!" Starlight said to the crowd, who cheered happily as Party Favor continued to draw her attention by further ‘apologizing.’

"They tried to break me! They wouldn't stop talking about how different they are, and that somehow makes their friendship stronger!"

"Such backwards thinking." Starlight shook her head in disappointment yet satisfied none of the less.

"But I didn't listen! I knew what they were up to, and I didn't listen!"

"Well done, Party Favor! We welcome you back with open hooves!"

All eyes turned to Fluttershy, who spoke up, "Um, Starlight? I think we might have two more friends joining us today."

The crowd gasped when the both the lion and cheetah stepped forward leading to Starlight smile in satisfaction upon seeing this.

"Is this true?" She asked with a wary approach.

“Of course.” Fuli spoke, since Kion couldn’t. “But I just want to be sure. If we agree to leave our special marks and powers in the vault, we'll really be happier?"

"Just look around! Equality has given us more happiness than you've ever known!"

"And you wouldn't let me just live here in the village with my old mark?"

"Out of the question. A pony with a different cutie mark in our midst would destroy our entire philosophy. We are all equal here!"

"Then how do you explain this?!" Fluttershy shouted as she tossed a bucket of water and right at Starlight, who just managed to jump right out of the way before getting wet.

"I knew you couldn't be trusted!" she exclaimed angrily while shooting a furious glare at the pony.

However, Party Favor noticed that a single drop of water did manage to land on her flank, revealing something else underneath her equal sign. He took off his cloak and cleaned the makeup right off.

"No! Get away!" She protested in a now futile effort to avoid being exposed. But by then the damage had already been done. Her real cutie mark was now exposed for all eyes to see. She tried to cover it up with her tail but she was already exposed and her ruse is busted. "Wha… What are you looking at?! They're the problem, not me!"

The Lion and Pony Guard smiled in triumph, the plan had worked perfectly, thanks to Fluttershy telling them the night before what she had uncovered.

"So it is true!" Party Favor said after dropping his now wet cloak sharing the same equal shock as everyone else even when he was in on the plan.

"You said cutie marks were evil!" Double Diamond said feeling very betrayed. "You said special talents led to pain and heartache!"

"They do! Don't you see?! Look at them!" She exclaimed in a vain effort to take the heat off of herself.

"Then why?" Sugar Belle asked. "Why did you take ours and not give up your own?"

"I…" Starlight's eyes shifted around as she sweated and struggled to explain herself before settling with the truth. "I had to, you fools! How could I collect your cutie marks without my magic?!"

"But the staff has all the magic we need!" Night Glider counter replied.

"The staff is a piece of wood I found in the desert! It's my magic that makes all this possible!"

“Oh, really?” Ono spoke up speaking on behalf of the crowd. “And that justifies the means?” He raises his right wing up as he flies. “Talk to the wing, you hypocrite.”
"You lied to us!" Diamond exclaimed as everyone looks on at her angrily.

"So what? E-Everything else I said is true! The only way to be happy is if we're all equal!"

"Except for you."

Starlight's horn crackled with angry energy, ready for a fight.

“It’s over, Starlight Glimmer.” Fuli spoke what Kion would have said if he could talk. “Now if I were you, I wouldn’t make this worse for yourself.” She said as she got herself in a pouncing position. “Surrender our marks peacefully or else, you’ll have to deal with me!”

Joining her side and no longer feeling fear in the face of her, Sugar Belle stepped forward to stand up to her. “You can't have a cutie mark, Starlight! Either we're all equal, or none of us are!"

Now out of options with the truth completely exposed and has lost everything, she did the only thing she could do when cornered. She quickly worked up her magic and teleported her away out of it before running off.

Double Diamond took the lead, galloping his hooves in the direction of the caves, "Come on! Let's get our cutie marks back!" The town ponies all cheered in agreement and ran off after him to pursue their marks. But while they went off, Fluttershy led the others in the opposite direction towards Starlight's house.

"Come on! Our cutie marks are in there!"

“All right, Kyoga, go help them!” Twilight instructed of her who immediately leaped to regroup with them.

She immediately obeyed. “On it.” But then she briefly stopped to ask. “But what about you?”

“I’m going to buy the Lion and Pony Guard some time and throw Starlight a farewell party.” She answered while moving to catch sight of Starlight’s escape route before teleporting off in her direction.

The ponies already at the caves tried to break the container, holding their cutie marks to no avail. Without the strength their cutie marks provided them they didn’t have the strength to break the glass.

"Stand back, everypony!" Double Diamond commanded of everypony as he came charging forward with the fake Staff of Equality in his mouth. He gave it one good throw at the glass and was successfully able to break it. The vault glowed in a bright light causing all of the cutie marks to glow and fly freely back to the flanks from the ponies that were ripped off of them. Once everypony got their cutie marks back everyone was greatly relieving their former glory having their previous bright colors restored.

Double Diamond felt his cutie mark return, a pair of three snowflakes, and his body glowed. His mane was now baggy and stylish, giving him a more sporty, athletic and handsome.

Sugar Belle's coat became bright pink, her mane’s curly and bright with green beads when her cupcake cutie mark was restored.

Night Glider's coat became shinier much like the other ponies, her mane was swept back giving her a more energy-filled appearance when her cutie mark consisting of a crescent moon with feathers returned.

When Party Favor regained his cutie mark consisting of a balloon animal with streamers, his mane and tail were now curly and bright blue to match his now bright coat.

No pony could ever tell anyone of how great it is to regain what they once lost which spread out of the cave when they all emerged happily along with the following cutie marks sparkling and swirling across the sky on their way back to their rightful owners.

"Even without my cutie mark, I can tell this is beautiful!" Rarity said, marveling at the stunning sight.

“Me too!” Ono agreed before refocusing with what they need to.

From her room, Starlight snarled as more ponies regained their cutie marks. Everything, her ideal lifestyle, utopia, philosophy, all came to ruins once the Lion and Pony Guard came into town and crossed paths with her.

"They think they can come to my village and disrupt my life?" She said to herself as she levitated the jars with the Mane Six's cutie marks and the Lion Guard’s talents and levitated her bed away before making her escape through a secret passageway and then made her way down the stairs. "Let's see how they like spending the rest of their lives without their precious cutie marks and powers!"

Applejack and Rarity grunted as struggled to try to break down the door, due to their lack of cutie marks draining their physical strength. Even Beshte couldn't do much without his super strength. A whistle was heard and Night Glider flew upwards, aiming at the door right when Kyoga came charging too.

"Stand back, everypony!" Kyoga working her magic managed to charge a powerful blast right at the door right when Night Glider speed her way down. The two working together managed to destroy the door with ease.

"Wow! That was awesome!" The Pegasus said.

"I think it's wonderful too!" Sugar Belle agreed before everyone searched the house for their former leader.

“No!” Beshte exclaimed upon seeing the empty table. “They’re gone!”

"They were right over there!" Fluttershy added as the realization kicked when the honey badger came to the same conclusion.

"Look!" Bunga pointed to the not so secret passageway as everyone ran inside.

They reached the other end of the tunnel where they managed to spot Starlight galloping away with a wagon on her back, with the jars of the Lion and Pony’s Guards marks in tow, down the path that lead to the snowy mountains up ahead.

Party Favor took out a balloon, using his skills to make them into a pair of binoculars and spotted Starlight making her escape. "She's headed for the pass! If she makes it into those mountains, we'll never find her!"

Pinkie Pie took the balloon binoculars so she can take a look herself. "These are amazing!"

"There's a whole network of caves up there!" Sugar Belle told the crew. "Your cutie marks will be gone forever!"

Applejack galloped, "Then let's get moving, y'all!"

Party Favor, Double Diamond, Sugar Belle and Night Glider all went ahead, while the Lion and Pony Guard were lagging behind due to their lack of cutie marks. Even Rainbow Dash couldn’t go faster than the slow pace as her friends.

"Oh, come on!" She exclaimed in frustration with this restriction of a handicap.

Starlight made her way around the mountain until she spotted Night Glider catch up to her in flight. "Are you all so willing to give up everything because of these strangers?!"

She shot a magic beam from her horn, causing the snow from a ledge to fall and land on Night Glider. Much to her dismay she quickly blew the snow away and quickly caught up with her along with the rest of her friends.

"We gave up everything for you!" Sugar Belle retorted in their defense. "Because we thought you were our friend!"

"I am your friend!" Starlight lividly fired back.

"Real friends don't force others to be what they want them to be!" Sugar Belle counter-responded. "Twilight was right about you all along!"

Starlight growled back even more furious at the very mention of her. "Err! Even so I still run that despicable pony long gone from here. She is not coming to help them!"

Suddenly, said pony appeared right in front of her, appearing right in front of her next escape cave with her wings spread out. “Wanna bet of that?”

“WHAT?!” She shrieked as she suddenly finds herself cornered by the four ponies.

At the same time, the rest of the team were slow behind but were still able to climb up the mountain.

"I can't believe we have to count on these other ponies to save our powers!" Rainbow Dash complained.

"But if we hadn't come here to help them, they'd still be living under her rules!" Kyoga gently pointed out. "Think of this as an opportunity to help us!"

"And I know they can do it!" Fluttershy said with confidence.

“Me too!” Beshte agreed whole-heartedly.

In an attempt, to get herself out of the corner, she attempted the same trick again, only this time she made sure to give Twilight a good magical blind-fold to disorient her and created a small wave of magic to force everyone back.

Starlight managed to get some breathing room once more as Twilight struggled to remove the magical bind blinding her eyes, but it didn’t last for long when Sugar Belle used her magic to create a pie out of the snow and hurled it at the unicorn.

"My newest recipe – snow pie!"

The impact hit the wagon, causing it’s handles to break and the wagon itself to flip over, the jars to fly off, and Starlight to trip. The jars were nearly crashed until Starlight swiftly levitated back up in time. Once she reached the other side of the bridge she just crossed, she zapped her magic at it, causing it to collapse.

To counter this disadvantage, Party Favor blew on his balloons and quickly managed to create a long and sturdy balloon bridge, for which Night Glider bended down to the other side and allowed them all to safely cross the ravine. By then, Twilight finally removed the bind and managed to sprint away from her current floating spot in flight.

Once they reached the other side, Double Diamond screeched to a halt when he suddenly recognized something that belongs to him. "Whoa! These are my old skis!" He brought the long abandoned items close to heart, along with his old scarf and helmet, "This is where I first met Starlight!"

"Maybe you can reminisce another time!" Night Glider strongly advised when Twilight managed to catch up to them. "She's almost to the caves!"

Double Diamond smiled when got an idea popping up. "Feel like an air drop?"

Twilight smiled when she got the idea he is thinking of. “Ready when you are!”

So far, Starlight was nearing the finish line. Just a little further and she will have made her escape with her constellation prizes.

“Almost there. You’re marks are mine forever!”

“Guess again, Starlight!” Came Twilight’s voice from behind.

Starlight caught attention to this and not only that she also saw Night Glider carrying Double Diamond, who was now wearing his skis, helmet, goggles and scarf.

Night Glider dropped Double Diamond and she slid down the slope, causing the snow to land all over Starlight right before she was able to reach the caves. And for added measure, Twilight flew down to flip over and land a strong kick from her back hooves to slam her back first on the ground.

The impact was enough for her to finally lose her control over the jars, and they all shattered once they hit the ground. The cutie marks and powers freely flew off to find their rightful owners now that they are no longer under Starlight’s control.

Kion was the first to spot the shimmering marks up ahead and coming right in his direction. The two marks that he previously lost one of the roaring lion and the fiery one landed on his cheek and shoulders. When that happened he felt his previous strength and powers return. After feeling the surge of magic flow through his body, he flew up happily along hearing the sound of his voice again.

“1, 2, 3, is it true. Yes it is, I can talk again!”

The rest of the cutie marks reached the ponies, feeling both their magic, talents and special abilities return.

Fuli felt energized once more as she performed multiple circles around the gang along with sporting a new cutie mark herself from the surge of magic she felt on her body. A yellow and black colored lightning bolt accompanied with a cheetah in a racing position at the starting line.

“Ladies and gentlemen, Cruz Ramirez is in the building!”

“But you’re not in the building, you’re on a mountain!” Bunga corrected as he flexed his muscles showing off his blue Mark of the Guard and new cutie mark consisting of a honey badger diving straight towards a high dive towards the body of water from a high cliff. “And that’s not all!”

“Yes, Bunga, you’re brave in the face of danger.” Fuli said pretty impressed and amused this time around.

As Applejack got her cutie mark back she bucked her back legs happily. "Yee-haw! Finally, I can buck like a five-bit snake herder in an Appleloosa ranch house again!"

"And you got your countryisms back, too!" Ono commented as he admired his new cutie mark on his right wing. A sharp and narrowed orange and black colored eye looking on for any signs of danger close by and afar. “And I can spot trouble a mile away.”

“Up ahead or are you just saying that for the sake of the moment?” Beshte asked confused even with his previous strength properly returned along with sporting a new cutie mark himself. A couple bars of metal iron usually found at a construction site with Beshte’s image himself standing under them.

“Up ahead, look!” Ono alerted everyone as he spotted troubled ahead.

"Then we better get on over there. Let's go!" Kion shouted while leading the team on over them and happy to hear his voice again.

Just after succeeding, the four ponies are now faced with Starlight Glimmer emerging from the snow now increasingly furious than before. The ponies backed away in fear just as she prepared to destroy them. Her horn with sky blue magic glowed brighter and hotter than ever before, and her eyes looked on with murderous rage as she aimed a very strong beam right at them.

Before the beam could hit them, a large powerful magenta force field appeared, protecting the ponies from Starlight's wrath courtesy of Twilight Sparkle using her magic to stop her.

"Wh– I studied that spell for years! How can you—"

"I studied magic for years too!" Twilight began, "But what I didn't know then was that studying could only take me so far." she smiled as the rest of her friends arrived, "Each of my friends has taught me something different about myself! It was their unique gifts and passions and personalities that helped bring out the magic inside of me! I never would have learned that I represent the element of magic without any of them!"

Kion having arrived on the scene had some words to share too. "And I never would have learned that I was the Lion destined to help keep the peace and unity amongst the Pride Lands and the team if it wasn’t for the power of magic." Starlight scoffed in response. "Starlight, I get what you were trying to do. You wanted to create a place where nopony would feel different and inferior to each other. You were right about that said differences can create rifts amongst each other, but that's without looking at the things thoroughly. They can also help you grow and become a better friend. Scar himself tried to change the world with lies and deception, but it's only with the truth from the eye of the beholder that we can make the world better."

Starlight still wasn’t having any of it. "Spare me your sentimental nonsense! I may have lied like him but I still gave these ponies real friendships they never could've had otherwise!"

"How do you know that?!" Double Diamond retorted in response as he removed his helmet and tossed it aside. "You never even gave us a chance!"

“Well…” Starlight said ominously. “…if I ever see him then I make sure to give him your regards.” With a blinding flash of magic, she disappeared into the caves.

"She's getting away!" Ono exclaimed as she disappeared inside the cave’s darkness,

"We'll never find her in there!" Diamond added.

“No, she’s not because I’m not finished yet!” Twilight stated in an icy tone as she spread her wings and sprinted after her much to the surprise of her friends.

Inside the dark caves, Starlight heard a surge of magic fly right by her. Before she knew it the cave was illuminated with a bright magenta light and she is now cut off and finding herself face to face with Twilight a dark purple burning mane and tail in flames.

“This time, I have a message for you!” She stated calmly yet coldly as she looks on with glowing white eyes directed at her frighten foe as she tries to muster her magic to counter whatever she aimed right at her. The attack sent her opponent tumbling backwards and grunting in pain as she landed on her back.

Starlight attempted to shoot another beam at her right at away, but Twilight was quick to catch and redirect back right at her. The impact created an explosion that pushed her even further back.

After that followed an even more painful experience as Twilight used her telekinesis spell to en-wrap the unicorn under her grasp before slamming her all across the cave walls. First, she was slammed back down onto the ground, and then she was thrown back across the caves.

As this was playing out, Kion was able to use his horn as a flashlight so everyone can see what exactly is playing out inside including the part where the alicorn is continuing to toss Starlight around like a rag doll from being slammed up into the ceiling, back down to the ground. Her final attack consisting of a fiery lion appearing and roaring and pouncing right at her which created a large explosion to which Kion had to create a force field to protect everyone from the debris that flew outside.

When the dust settled and the smoke cleared up, Starlight was left groaning in defeat in the middle of the scorched area of the cave when Twilight landed on top of her. When she did she placed her horn over her horn which created a bright glow that can be seen from outside.

Upon recovering and getting up to her hooves she found herself face to face with the alicorn who surrounded her magic around her body with one last thing to say to ensure that she doesn’t even think about crossing paths with her and challenging her again.

“Never come back!” She softly yet growled in her face.

Starlight trembled and responded with a submissive nod before running away with Twilight watching on and letting her go this time after being freed.

When Twilight walked out and emerged into the light from the entrance where the others were waiting, she shook off the flames all over her body before being questioned by Kion while shaking his stunned astonishment over her battle with the former village leader.

"Where's Starlight? What happened?"

"She escaped.”

“You let her go!”

“Yes. But she got my message and will think twice from showing her face around us again."

“You sure showed her.” Bunga excitedly chimed in with her thoughts while rushing over to high-five her. “That was Un-Bunga-veilable!”

"It sure was.” Sugar Belle smiled as she agreed but then asked. “But what will we do now?"

"We just have to hope that when she's had a chance to think it over, she realizes that you all have taught her something."

Party Favor approached the prince and princess, with sincere gratitude, "It's you who have taught us something. We all came to this village because we were searching for something missing from our lives." He walked backed over to his new friends, "We thought Starlight had given it to us, but now... now it seems it was in front of us all along. It's us!" The four ponies embraced in a warm and real hug now having a better understanding of friendship more than before.

"So does that mean you'll stay in the village?" Kion asked with a smile.

"It's our home." Night Glider said as she placed her hooves on her hips, "I'm not going anywhere."

"This is a chance for all of us to get to know each other again for the very first time!" Double Diamond happily added.

"And I finally have a chance to bake something besides terrible muffins!" Sugar Belle equally happily also added.

With Starlight gone, it meant a new beginning for every pony that has just regained their true talents and cutie marks to fully enjoy themselves and live up to their true potential. Though Twilight’s smile faded as she prepared to fly away for good seeing this to be the only time she’ll ever be around. Seeing this had her know that there is more to be said in order to fully patch things up with her. “That being said…” She then said sounding very apologetic now towards Twilight who stopped just before she could fly off. “…we owe you an apology on behalf of everypony at the village for what happened earlier.”

“For what?” She looked confused as she turned back to face her.

“For driving you and Kyoga out of town after learning of your past actions and not seeing you as a redeemed pony at heart.” She explained.

Twilight found it in her heart to put past grievances aside. “You don’t need to apologize for what I did. If anything I should be apologizing to you that you all had to hear and learn of what I did in the past. From hiding skeletons in the closet along with working with someone who nearly destroyed both worlds.” She said with a tone of regret and shame. “I wouldn’t blame you for not wanting me around after learning the truth.”

“True.” Double Diamond reluctantly agreed before speaking with an upbeat smile. “But you still came back to help us regain our cutie marks and you even defeated Scar and reclaimed the Pride Lands.”

“Huh? I didn’t tell you that.” She turned to the others trying to understand where that came from.

“We did.” Fuli spoke on behalf of the team. “Back when we were resting up with Party Favor back outside of town.”

“You did?”

“Of course.” She nodded. “We figured that if you were going to be the Princess of Friendship then it should be expanded more with all of these ponies we helped out today.”

Twilight turned back to the three feeling very touched. “You really mean it? Friends?”

“Of course.”

“Friends.”

“No matter what.”

“Through and through.”

The four brought her in for a group hug with the rest of the crew joining in.

“That being said...” Party Favor spoke up while placing both of his front hooves on Twilight’s right hoof. “…it would mean a lot if you joined us for the party we are now going to have.”

Twilight looked unsure until Night Glider flew over with a smile to tempt her into giving in. “Come on Twilight, have you ever learned what it’s like to have fun at a party? You know you want to!”

She looked on still trying to decide whether or not to stay…

Back in the village, a celebration was held at the village, where it was filled with brighter and more colorful buildings and decorations. With both Kion and Twilight’s help in conjuring their magic was used to restore beauty to the homes of the ponies.

Sugar Belle made delicious and beautifully decorated treats for her friends while Double Diamond was playing ball with some of the other ponies.

"Now those are real smiles." said Pinkie Pie, feeling truly happy for the villagers.

“They sure are.” Bunga agreed just when he felt something on both of his arms. “Huh?” His cutie mark and Mark of the Guard were both glowing, and so were from the others.

“Poa!”

“Interesting!”

Both Beshte and Fuli commented finding it fascinating.

“I’ll never get used to that."

“Me neither.”

Applejack and Ono both would come to find it really odd.

"I think it's divine.” Rarity said as she admired the sight of her glowing cutie mark.

"Does that mean that the map is calling us somewhere else?" Fluttershy asked once the shimmering ended.

Twilight smiled in response knowing what this means. "I have a feeling it means our work here is done."

"Looks like you were right, Twilight." Kion said. "The map did have a reason for sending us here. We brought real friendship to these ponies. Guess that's why you're the Princesses of Friendship." He said with a wink.

Twilight while still smiled still had this to say in response. “But the map didn't send me and you, even being the Prince of Friendship. It sent us. You're a part of me, all of you. And there's no doubt you're a part of our mission to spread friendship too." The Lion and Pony Guard gathered together and embraced in yet another heartwarming hug.

"This feels like an ending!" Pinkie Pie noted once they broke apart from their hug. "It doesn't have to be an ending yet, right? 'Cause that Sugar Belle can bake!"

"I think we can stay a little while longer." Twilight agreed before finding herself faced with Bunga encouraging her to say more than that. “I mean of course we can! Come on!"

The friends all headed out to enjoy their festivities with their new friends. But just before Twilight could indulge in what the celebration has to offer. Kion placed a hoof on her for a quick word.

“Twilight.”

“Yes, Kion? Everything okay?”

“Yes, it’s just…” He wasn’t sure of how to approach this before settling with. “…I couldn’t help but feel that deep down you knew all of this would happen.”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean considering of how when you can back to save us, you could have ended the whole thing by going straight to the cave and retrieved them when you had the chance.”

Twilight sighed knowing that he is figured everything out. “Because I wanted to expose Starlight Glimmer as the fraud she really was. When I saw her coat was much like ours and not like the other ponies in this village I knew that she truly didn’t give up her cutie mark and magic.”

“Then why didn’t you tell us earlier?”

“I wanted too, but I couldn’t since everypony under Starlight’s orders were watching our every move. If I did then we all might not be here right now. Starlight would have gotten away and we never would have regained our cutie marks like the other ponies.”

“I suppose I do see your point…” Kion came to understand why she did what she did but still had this to say. “…but do you think the next time you’ve got a complicated plan to play you could at least tell us? So that way we can be sure things can go on the way you intended. I’m just saying things could have gone down a whole lot differently.”

“It could have, and I’ll try.” She replied acknowledging his point in return but remained still stood by her initial stance since things still did play out the way she intended it go.

“Thanks.”

“Come on!” Twilight ran off ahead ready to join in on the fun. “Let’s celeberate!”

“Wait for me!” Kion raced after her as the two laughed happily and prepared to have some fun together.

While this was happening, Starlight had just emerged from the caves from the opposite side of the mountains still fuming and frightened out of her mind over what had just happened. She ended up outplayed by Twilight, she was outed as a fraud, she lost control over the village and the cutie marks, and she had lost every ounce of respect she once had from everyone of those ponies. She moved to brush and tidy her mane just when she heard a deep voiced figure drawing in her direction.

“Well done, Starlight Glimmer…” Scar’s voice spoke to her as he approached her with Zira, Chrysalis, and the remaining outsiders and changelings appearing behind him. “…just like we always planned.”

“You!” She furiously glared at him before marching over to him. “You said that if I captured the Lion and Pony Guard then I would have the perfect village. Now look at what really happened. My life is a disaster now thanks to you!”

“Yes…” Scar acknowledged. “…too bad Twilight was able to outsmart you there.”

Starlight failed to see where he is getting at. “Too bad! Too bad! I lose everything I had because of her and you mean to tell me that everything is going to be all right?! After you told me to run her out of town when I could have captured her along with the others instead and told that insufferable pony to shut up the second she started going off about “friendship” and “rainbows”?!” She angrily ranted while mockingly saying those two words with the utmost disgusted tone she could muster.

“Of course.” He calmly replied as he casually moved the flaring unicorn’s horn out of his face so he can further explain himself while pulling out visuals of what played out in the past. “By getting you to do all of that instead of capturing her, served purpose for my new plan against her in addition, you helped us all escape from Tartarus so we can prepare ourselves to fight for another day.”

“But won’t Twilight find out that you’ve escaped sooner or later? I’m definitely sure they’ll be on full alert and enacting a full-on lion hunt for you when the truth comes out.”

“She will sooner or later.” He acknowledged but remained confidence things will play out the way he intended to. “But thanks to her, it’ll be much time before they find out what has really happened back there. I’m sure of it.” He smirked to himself as he recalls the exact duplicates he left behind in his allies place back in Tartarus.

“So what now, Scar?” Ushari asked. “Do we head back to the Pride Lands now that we’re out of jail?”

“You will.” He answered. “But I’m not.”

“Huh? Why not?”

“Because even with the combined powers of the prisoners in Tartarus, I’m still not back up to full power. It took everything I had just to get us out of there.” He calmly explained to avoid discouraging one of his most faithful followers. “In order for us to actually have a winning chance like before, we’re going to need outside help and I have an idea of where to go to in order to get the help we need.” He said as he looked on to the horizon towards where the Equestrian borders lie before turning back to give instructions for his followers before departing Equestria for now. “In order to ensure for everyone in Equestria and the Pride Lands is unaware until it’s too late of my eventual return, we’re going need to keep up this ongoing war I’ve started. So Ushari you will take the skinks back to the Pride Lands and lay low for the time being. Recruit new followers to our cause keep waging attacks and seek out opportunities to take down the Lion and Pony Guard, all of the above as long as we keep the element of surprise on our side.”

“Of course.” Ushari accepted this task with a bow.

“As for you Starlight…” He turned to the unicorn still looking on unsure considering of how she was played too in his plot to escape from prison. “…the fate of Equestria and Pride Lands lies in your hooves. Our followers will look to you now.”

“What?” Starlight was very surprised hear of what she is being bestowed. “You don’t mean…?”

“Yes, Starlight.” He confirmed with a nod. “The Army of Scar is under your command. You’re in charge and will continue my crusade of conquering both the Pride Lands and Equestria during my absence.”

“And why do you think I’m the pony for the job?”

“Because you and I both share one common enemy together, one I’m sure you agree with me one since said pony defeated us and removed us from power we were once rightly bestowed. Together we share one common goal in life. Revenge.” He explained while walking circles around the curious pony who is now intrigued and listening more intently the more she listens to him. “The one thing in life that drives our ambition to succeed, the drive to get back in power, the drive to actually emerge out on top with the pleasure of taking down those who had once wronged you before.” Sensing that she is seemingly agreeing to his words he added. “The drive to prove yourself as the pony you are meant to be.”

After some much needed consideration she made her answer and commitment. “All right!” She agreed much to Scar’s satisfaction. “I’ll do! For taking down Twilight Sparkle!”

Scar placed a paw on her shoulder in response so he can complement her for making the right choice. “Excellent choice, Starlight! I know I can count on you!” He then handed her a ball of black, purple, and green dark magic for her to carry with her. “Here! This is for when you need to contact me in private, in addition it’ll allow me to contact the other Outsiders in the Outlands. Somewhere where no one would ever dare to think to look.”

“Where?”

Scar smirked as a fiery spiritual image of himself appeared looked down upon Starlight and Ushari down below from the very center pit inside the Outlands Volcano.

“Oh I see.”

“Yes…” He sinisterly said as he voice echoed across inside the caldera. “I am Scar.” He deviously smirked once more along with both Starlight and Ushari knowing that this is a new beginning for them. Another opportunity of revenge.

Author's Note

After being trapped inside a cramped room for sleepless nights and constant speaking from Starlight's recorded voice, both Twilight and Kyoga came to their rescue. And thanks to Twilight, they had a plan to deal with their friendship problem. Courtesy of both the Kindest of the Bunch pretending to accept their ways and lifestyle, they were successfully able to expose Starlight as a fraud who is actually using her own magic to strip away other's cutie marks.

After a lengthy chase and some one on one action between both the alicorn and unicorn, they succeeded in regaining their cutie marks with Starlight having fear struck in her heart and solved their friendship problem together, furthermore the rest of the Guard gaining an added surprise on their right shoulders. All while the ponies living in the village regain their freedom, true talents and happiness.

While a happy ending has been earned to start off the season for the heroes, they however don't realize that the way things played out also worked to Scar's benefit in being able to escape his prison. But since he is not up to par from where he was back before being de-powered he will be laying low for the time being. Therefore, he will some of his followers back home to keep tabs on trying to keep things at unease while he prepares to fight for another day.

And of course a humiliated Starlight is more than happy to join his cause and with help from some dark magic he was able to create a spell that bridges the way for him to be around without anyone knowing about it so that being said neither pony nor lion are out of the game yet.

Next up we get to see the Pride Lands once again in the first TLG episode since the Rise of Scar at the end of Season 3 with more unrest going on as far as the crocodiles are involved so keep your heads up and watch your backs because this season has yet to be established thus far so stay tuned.

Episode 3: Let Sleeping Crocs Lie

Episode 3:

Let Sleeping Crocs Lie

It wasn’t too long ago, when the Pride Landers have moved back to their homes after being forced out when Scar took over. All but one group, the crocodiles who all are now currently residing in the big lake in Ponyville.

Ever since having to relocate from Diamond Valley, they took up residence in the local lake since it was the largest source of water with Makku leading occasional trips to the rivers in the Everfree Forest in order to for the float to spread out more for breathing room in terms of swimming around for excerise and finding their fill in fish.

Naturally, back in the Pride Lands since it’s still the dry season there it would more fitting if they were all hibernating there just when it was all beginning. But of course because Scar chose that very day to take over the Pride Lands, they all had the burden of being disturbed from their seasonal slumber by the royal sisters to avoid getting burned to death.

Even though Makuu was more understanding and reasonable than he was since he first took control of the float, he still was not a happy croc in the matter. But was none of the less still willing to compromise for the sake of the kindness and generosity both princesses have provided for him and his float to ensure that they were all well accommodated.

Although not all crocs were happy about the situation with some even voicing that they want to go back to the Pride Lands with one of those crocs in particular being Kiburi. A croc with very dark shadows under his eyes and a small beard under the chin of his neck, that looked like a little fuzz underneath.

Throughout his time living under Makku’s leadership, he grew accustomed to his old ways in life, taking what they pleased when it suits them at the expense of others, in addition, looking out for themselves whenever things go wrong.

If any day, the crocs sure picked a good day to complain when they managed to get themselves into trouble as far as the Ponyville residents are concerned because today was the day they’ve racked up complaints from them big time. The matter itself was serious to the point Mayor Mare had to personally summon the Lion and Pony Guard over to quell the matter.

“Okay, okay, everypony calm down!” Twilight urged the angry mob in front of her.

“Everyone please!” Kion repeated seeing that everyone is talking over each other. “One at a time!”

But it still wasn’t getting them to calm down and listen.

Frustrated and left with no choice, Twilight flew up and shouted in her Royal Canterlot Voice. “EVERYPONY QUIET!”

It worked thankfully.

“About time.”

“You said it.”

Both Bunga and Fuli remarked after getting annoyed by all of their non-stop talking mouths.

“Okay…” Kion then said calmly trying to understand why everyone is all getting upset like this. “…now, what in the Pride Lands is going on? What happened?”

“Your crocodile friends happened?” Lyra angrily remarked before directing their attention to the wrecked trees in the Everfree Forest. “They caused a rampage and destroyed the roof of my home, my bed, and my special cake for my best friend!” For further proof she pulled up the broken remains of her pillow and cake.

“Not only that, they ate my entire fish supply and my wheelbarrow.” A pony displayed his empty and said chewed up wheelbarrow.

“They ate my student’s homework!” Cheerlie cried while the Cutie Mark Crusaders winked at them and hooves up to her in response.

“They ate my muffins! And they didn’t even apologize for it!” Derpy complained while displaying the croc’s teeth marks on the broken plates.

Next up is Cranky Doodle with bandages covering his flank with the love of his life by his side. “Do I need to say it?” He grumpily asked while gesturing to the injuries he’s just obtained.

“Don’t ask Bunga…” Fuli whispered to the honey badger ready to open his mouth. “…don’t ask.”

Bunga literally zipped his lips and tossed aside the zipper in response.

Sweetie Drops then exclaimed in angered concern. “How are we going to protect ourselves?!”

“I got it!” Snips shouted as he presented everyone a cart of steaming hot burgers that his partner is standing beside. “Let’s all buy a hay burger!”

“Five bits each.” Snails added.

No one was even amused or enlightened as everyone in the crowd all booed and threw condiment bottles right at them forcing them to retreat.

“I told you we should have started at two bits each!”

“Hey! Getting meat nowadays is expensive!”

The two argued as they ran away.

With that little distraction aside, the crowd all turned to both leaders of the Guard along with their mayor with expected resolutions to the rising issue on hoof.

“Anyways…” Kion said while rolling his eyes at their antics moving refocusing. “…we understand that you’re upset and we’re sorry that this all happened. We had no idea that they were going to do this.”

“Sure speaks volume…” Cranky uttered out loud while glaring at the pony with the scar on her face. “…too bad you couldn’t piece together of what your friend was going to do after she was crowned a princess and she’s still a princess.

“Cranky!” Matilda chastised. “Now is not the time for blame games!”

“Well what else can we do unless she by miracle has a perfect resolution to the matter other than pulling a knife to our backs when we least expect it?!”

“We could at least listen to her considering she’s the reason we’re all standing here today with freedom.” Filthy Rich argued in her defense. “Without her we wouldn’t even be having this conversation right now.”

“Try telling that to her had she decided not to go through with it all.” Cranky still muttered under her breath to which did not go unheard by everyone

Meanwhile Twilight just looks on with an annoyed frown while the others standing by her side look worried wondering how she is really feeling about all of this being said right in front of her. After letting them air their grievances once more, she moved to speak up.

“If everyone is done voicing complainants, I might have an idea of how to resolve this.” She calmly proposed, and once she saw that everyone was listening she continued. “Me and Kion will go to Makku and get an explanation for what happened. If anything else we’ll go to King Simba and Princess Celestia about this. If all goes well then none of you will have to worry about them causing trouble…” She then specifically locked eyes at Cranky. “…anymore.” He looked aside with a heartless snort some regret for being too hard on her. She then turned back to everyone. “No matter what happens I can promise that this will be dealt with, as peacefully as possible.”

“Of course, Princess Twilight.” Mayor Mare nodded in response having faith in her then turned to her best friend. “You too, Prince Kion.”

Without another word, Twilight flew over the crowd and made her way towards the lake where the crocs are currently residing with Kion and the rest of the Guard following after her.

While flying over there while still looking on serious as always while on a mission, she nearly felt the urge to cry from Cranky’s hurtful remarks. Sure they were true, but still hurt considering of how much she’s put into in ensuring no one suffered a fate they didn’t deserve.

On the way on land, some of the members got a chance to express their thoughts about what happened from the emergency meeting at City Hall.

“So…” Bunga awkwardly started. “…is she okay?”

“She will be.” Kion said as he flew close by personal choice since he is still getting used to flying.

“Are you sure? She didn’t seem completely there when that grumpy donkey said all of those mean things about her.”

“He said that she will be.” Rarity asserted the prince’s certainty on the matter as she ran beside him. “Clearly, it’s going to take time for everyone to cool down and let bygones be bygones in the matter.”

Pinkie then chimed in. “And I’m sure Cranky was just being cranky when he said all of that. I mean being trapped inside a crowded stadium with many ponies and Pride Landers is a sure way to work up some nerves of other ponies and most Pride Landers in this case.”

“And an honest pony can tell that it’s going to take some time for everyone to get settled on the matter.” Applejack added. “And not everyone here is the kindest kindred spirit around and with every Pride Lander even more so after what happened at the Crystal Empire.”

“I know but…you would think she’s suffered enough since she beat the meanest lion in the Pride Lands and reclaimed it in Simba’s name?”

“Truthfully yes, but since Twilight has hardly shown the courage to them that she’s repentant for what she did to them it’s very hard for the least kindest of the bunch for them to see that…” Fluttershy added in with her input on the matter. “…especially when some parts of her fearful self still remain inside of her.”

“I guess…” Bunga reluctantly accepted knowing that it’s the truth. But even still he didn’t completely agree with how little respect they were giving her but didn’t have further time to pursue the matter when they heard the Pony Guard leader’s voice call out to them.

“Girls, guys!” She called out to them to make sure they were keeping before moving to speak with Makku.

“Coming!” Kion called out on behalf of the team before whispering to his other best friend. “We’ll talk more later.”

Just when the rest of the Guard was catching up to where Twilight is standing, she was already meeting up face to face with Makku ready to talk to him.

“Makku.”

“Twilight.”

They both casually greeted like its professional business between them.

“We need to talk.”

“And let me guess…” Makuu said dryly like he expected this while rolling his eyes in annoyance. “…does this have anything to do with my float again?”

“Yes it does.” She politely greeted. “It’s just that we just received a few complaints from everyone in Ponyville again. All of them were saying that some crocs from your float have created destruction during their rampage across town.”

“Crocodiles…” He muttered to himself while turning towards the direction to his left behind him.

“Would you happen to know who if it wasn’t you?” Kion asked trying not to put him on the spot.

“I do.” He calmly answered before moving to shout out towards someone. “Kiburi!”

Said croc appeared by his side. “What?”

“Did you go behind my back and tell my float to go all around and trash Ponyville?!” He demanded.

“Yeah. So what?” Kiburi did not understand why his leader is clearly angered for he just admitted to.

“The problem is that you are encouraging them to cause trouble and by far peeving off the entire town!”

Fluttershy gasped in response. “Makku! Language!”

“Fluttershy…” Rainbow said to her in a “not now.” tone.

Despite being told how serious his offense was, Kiburi still didn’t care. “Big deal.”

“Kiburi…” Makku was now starting to lose his patience with him. “…I get that you’re used to how it was back when I first took over but things are different now. And since it’s still the dry season in the Pride Lands we have to take up residence here and you’re threatening to ruin it for everyone by trying to get us kicked out a place that’s providing us plenty of water. Normally we’d sleep through it, but we can’t this time around.”

“You’re right about that.” Kiburi agreed though with disdain directed at the alicorn princess. “We were sleeping.” He then approached her face to face. “We were sleeping. But now, thanks to the Lion and Pony Guard, we're all wide awake! So whaddaya gonna do about it, huh?”

Fuli was quick to leap in between them and get face to face with him for his approach. “Take it easy, Kiburi.”

Bunga could not believe that he is still going on about it. “Sheesh! Somebody still got up on the wrong side of the cave.”

“You can't blame him for bein' upset.” Beshte sympathized.

“After all, the princesses did wake 'em up.” Applejack added in agreement.

“And crocodiles usually spend the whole dry season in deep sleep. But once they're awake, they can't go back to their deep sleep!” Ono further added.

Pinkie tried to think otherwise. “Oh come on! No way that's not true!” She giggled.

“But it is.” Makku stated with a hardened frown in the pony’s direction who flinched upon seeing it. “We crocodiles need a whole lot of water to survive. Since there isn't enough to go around in the dry season, we sleep through it.”

“Never mind.” She said while moving to wisely stop talking on the matter.

“And since Twilight is the reason we’re awake…” Kiburi then stated while moving to bare his teeth in her direction. “…I say we deal with her the crocodile way!”

“Really?” Twilight asked feeling unimpressed while stepping aside from Fuli so he can see her in full view. “You want to go that way?” She returned a serious glare in his direction along with having her horn flare and wings spread out ready for the fight should he proceed to go through with it.

“Oh no.”

“Hapana.”

Both Fluttershy and Ono whimpered seeing this is starting to escalate when Twilight started to move menacingly towards Kiburi.

Kion was quick to run up beside along with Fuli who both moved to hold her back before it could get really bad.

“Oh, no, you don't!” Kion boldly stated in his friend’s defense.

Makuu was also quick to order his stubborn follower to back off. “Kiburi! Control yourself! I'll handle this.”

“Yes, Makuu.” He reluctantly obliged with a bow at the same time Twilight folded her wings and canceled the glowing aura on her horn.

Turning his attention back to both Kion and Twilight who took a deep breath to calm herself down, Makuu then tried to figure a way for both sides to satisfied. “That being said, I think it might be in our best interest to find water in the Pride Lands if we want to be able to at least spend time back there.”

“Are you sure, Makuu?” Kion didn’t feel so sure about that idea. “Even though it means enduring the dry season awake there half the time?”

Crocodiles usually sleep during the dry season and they already have a cozy arrangement with living in the Ponyville, but at the same time they too would like to be able to have a way they can return home even if it means listening to their body’s needs. “I’m sure.”

“Okay…” Kion accepted his choice. “…then we’ll go to my dad along with the other princesses.”

“Your dad? And the princesses?” Kiburi scoffed once more.

“Kiburi...” Makuu threateningly scolded for his blatant disrespect towards them.

“Yeah. My dad.”

“And the princesses.”

Both Kion and Twilight asserted.

“He makes sure everyone has enough water in the dry season. And I’m sure with good behavior both Princess Celestia and Luna will ensure that your stay in the Pride Lands will be just as comfortable as everyone and everypony in Ponyville.”

Her words were met with small skepticism from the crocodile leader. “Everyone?”

“I know they'll take care of you and your float, Makuu.” She assured.

“They'd better.” Makuu is trusting and holding his breath on their word here. With that decision made he turned to everyone in his float for instructions during his temporary absence. “I'm going to speak to King Simba, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna. Stay here until I come back.”

Even still Kiburi can’t keep his protesting mouth shut. “Stay here? But...” Makuu once more shot a threatening glare and growl in his direction to force him to stay in line. “…Yeah, okay, Makuu. Whatever you say. You're the leader.”

“And don't you forget it.” He warned once more before leaving alongside the Guard so he can meet up with them.

As they both were leaving Twilight and Kiburi scowled at each other once more before going their separate ways and turning their backs from each other.

Deep down she knows what’s going to happen after they leave and it could not be truer as her perks an ear up with her magic so she hear the croc’s true intention once everyone else was out of earshot.

“Okay, they're gone. Now, this is how it's going down. We're leaving this rule-restricted lake and finding us some water in the Pride Lands!”

One crocodile, Tamaka, was confused. “But you just said...”

“Never mind what I said!” He asserted still preferring Makuu’s old methods better. “Listen to what I'm saying! We're crocodiles! We don't wait around for other animals to tell us what to do! We take what we want! Just like Makuu before he turned into Mr. Nice Guy!”

He got support from others who actually did like Makuu the way he was before he turned a new leaf.

“Yeah! He's right!”

“Yeah, we do!”

Kiburi confidentially smirked seeing this support. “So I say we don't stay here! I say we spread out and get ourselves some water! Are you with me?”

“Yeah!”

“Then let's go!”

As everyone sets out away from the lake, the skinks both Shupavu and Njano are currently watching unnoticed from the nearest trees.

“Hmm-mmm.” The red skink noted. “Crocs on the rampage. Both Princess Twilight and Kiburi are both at their breaking points.” She turned to her partner. “Ushari will want to hear about this. And so will Scar along with Starlight!”

The two spies moved to scurry their way on over to the Volcano in the Outlands where they both relied of what had just transpired to the unicorn and cobra along with the lion / alicorn hybird’s spirit waiting for them.

“Interesting.” Starlight slyly smiled after taking in this new news.

“Very interesting.” Scar agreed before turning his attention to the cobra who recommended his new eyes for both worlds. “Your spies have done well, Ushari. This is very good news indeed.” The fiery spirit complimented with this in light. “Crocodiles detest the dry season. And they won't easily forgive both Celestia and Luna for waking them especially as far as where Twilight is concerned. It could give us an opportunity.”

“Yes.” Ushari sinisterly agreed. “That's what I thought, too.”

“A very great opportunity, indeed.” Starlight chimed in sharing the cobra’s eager excitement to pounce upon it.

“Have your skinks keep an eye on the situation especially on Twilight. Tell me immediately if anything changes.” He then instructed.

“You heard that?” Ushari asked of the two after turning his head towards them.

“Yes, sir.”

Both Shupavu and Njano set out to carry out this task leaving Ushari and Starlight alone with Scar.

“The Princesses mistake could prove most fortuitous for us. Perhaps it will even lead to the end of Simba, Celestia, and Luna's reign.” He then said with optimism with what he knows so far.

“Don’t forget Twilight.” Starlight reminded.

“And that we reptiles will rule the Pride Lands!” Scar looks on unimpressed while raising his left brow sternly in response. “Uh…” He quickly realized his mistake. “… under your leadership, of course. Right, Scar?”

“Of course, Ushari.” He gently assured. “Of course.” He repeated though somewhat insincerely. He then turned to Starlight. “And as for Twilight, I haven’t forgotten about her, not after what she just did to take away my powers. Even with every prisoner in Tartarus giving me their magic, I still have yet fully charge my strength and get back to what I had before our last battle.” He then frowned with slight resentment of how lucky she got just when he had her on the ropes before evilly smiling again. “With practice and a new grand plan, I’ll return stronger than before and I will get back what is rightfully mine. And soon, Twilight’s life will once again come crashing down harder than before.” He then laughed manically before his spirit disappeared while his physical body can resume his personal training so he can build back up to what he once had two months ago.

Meanwhile at Pride Rock, Makuu is currently meeting up with Simba, Celestia, and Luna so he can personally negotiate a way for his float to be able at least spend half of their time in the Pride Lands.

“It really is a matter of our survival and ensuring peace between the two worlds, Your Majesties.” He said to them while the Lion and Pony Guard watch from the sidelines with their leaders close by the princesses and lion king conversing with Makuu leader to leader.

“They sure have been talking awhile.” Beshte quietly commented to the others.

“No kidding.” Applejack commented back in agreement.

“What do you think they’re talking about?” Fluttershy wondered.

“I'm pretty sure they're talking about how and where the crocs are gonna live for the rest of the dry season.” Fuli replied.

“Of course but what if something happens to them?” The yellow Pegasus fearfully wondered. “They could get sunburn, or dehydrated, or even starve to death with not enough fish to last the whole dry season!”

“Easy, Fluttershy.” Beshte eased the trembling pony. “None of that's gonna happen. Like they said it’ll be a half and half sort of thing.”

“ Yeah, you heard Kion and Twilight.” Rainbow chimed in. “You got nothin' to worry about! They’ll be fine!”

“Ono! Come over here.”

“Rainbow! You too!”

Both their leaders called upon them.

“But then again, I could be wrong.” Rainbow then said feeling slightly worried herself along with Ono.

“Oh, no...”

“Perhaps, you don't understand how much water crocodiles need, sire.” Makuu said to the three.

“We do, Makuu.”

“And I'll see that you have it.”

Both Simba and Celestia reassured.

“Dad?” Kion spoke up with an idea. “What if Ono and Rainbow look out over the Pride Lands to see which watering hole is least crowded? Then maybe that one can go to the crocodiles.”

His father approved of it. “Excellent idea, Kion. Ono? Rainbow Dash?”

“Yes, Your Majesty!”

“It'd be our pleasure!”

The two bowed before flying off together.

“I'm sure we can find a place for your float, Makuu.” Simba said with a smile knowing that this can be dealt without any disputes.

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Makuu returned with gratitude. “I want to settle this peacefully for both the Pride Lands and all of Equestria.”

“Hopefully with this you all will at least be able to take turns up until the end of the dry season.” The white alicorn further assured.

Upon flying the skies the two fliers came across something alarming.

“What the…?”

“Hapana!”

Just then both flyers came right back to Pride Rock.

“Kion! Twilight! Your Majesties! The crocodiles are everywhere!”

“They've moved in to watering holes all over the Pride Lands!”

They urgently reported.

Makuu was highly surprised to hear of this since he didn’t give them the order. “Crocodiles?”

“What is the meaning of this, Makuu?” Luna sternly asked of him quick to demand an explanation. “I thought you said you wanted to settle this peacefully.”

The crocodile leader was quick to assert his innocence. “I do! I do! Whoever is doing this, they're defying a direct order! We'll have to finish this later. I need to deal with my float.” He moved to leave before being intercepted the eldest alicorn princess.

“Makuu, wait. We are very close to a solution.” She gently implored of him. “Let the Lion and Pony Guard handle this.”

“Mmm.” While initially reluctant on something he can do himself, he relented. “Very well.”

“We need to split up to gather them all.” Twilight instructed everyone while taking the lead. “Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

At the watering hole where the Impalas are currently residing in is where Kiburi is making them leave by force by making a surprise appearance in tail slapping one of them away when it least expected it.

“That was a warning.” Kiburi threateningly said to the frightened herd. “This is our watering hole now! We say when you can drink! And if you don't listen...” He approaches one just inches away from one’s face. “Lemme show you what'll happen.”

“Stop right there, Kiburi!” Kion shouted from above with both Twilight and Rainbow flying over from above his head. “This watering hole is not your place!“

“Leave the impalas alone!” Rainbow added while pounced her fists together.

“Or else you WILL pay dearly!” Twilight also added heavily and darkly with her horn lit up.

“It's our place now Kion. And I'm gonna teach 'em who's boss and there is nothing you can do to stop me Twilight!”

Kiburi continued to carry out his assault on the impala, leaving the others no choice but to pursue and stop him from doing so.

Kion moved to tackle and jumped onto his snout forcing him to back off. In response Kiburi shook him off on dry land and attempted to pin him down with his bare teeth.

“Okay, fine. I'll teach you instead.” He said when the lion cub pushed him off and back into the water.

In retaliation, he attempted to chomp his jaws onto him only to be greeted with a super-fast punch and kick from Rainbow Dash flying in with her super speed.

“Oof! Aah! What the…?”

POW!

The rebel croc was knocked hard backwards by another punch by Rainbow Dash.

Now feeling pushed to his limit, he charged back and tail whacked the Pegasus hard in the face and moved to do the same to Kion when he moved to attack shocking Twilight greatly upon seeing the deep cuts they endured to the faces.

With the two both lying down on the ground and water, Kiburi moved to approach them ready to finish them off when the alicorn vocally made herself clear to him…

“Don’t even think about it!” She warned while planting herself in between them with her horn flaring up.

Kiburi smugly smiled scoffed at her is just is barely keeping her rage in check before moving to taunt her. “Or what, Scarface? You’ll beat me up?! What’s the matter? Afraid of a little blood?”

At this point, Twilight snapped and snarled right back at him with her eyes glowing green with black and purple smoke coming out them while charging at him. With murderous intent black tendrils appeared from her eyes as she ensnares the now frighten croc with them.

“What? What? What is going on? No! No! Stop, you win, I surrender!”

But it has all fallen on deaf ears, as he finds out too late of how much of a bad idea it is to provoke the former Princess of Darkness. Next thing he knows he finds himself getting slammed around into the ground and into the nearby trees. During this vicious beat down, Twilight viciously smiled in his direction while speaking in a rather demonic tone of voice.

“What’s the matter? Afraid of a little beating?”

“I surrender! NOOOOOOOOO!” He screamed as he finds himself forced head deep underwater and slowly suffocating as a result.

While Rainbow Dash was loving every second of this scene, Kion however was horrified from seeing this along with the Impalas that are all wisely standing huddled together from a safe distance.

Just then Celestia along with Simba and Makuu had arrived on the scene.

“Twilight! STOP!” Celestia called out to her before he murders the crocodile she’s now torturing.

Instantly, Twilight snapped out of it. Her eyes returned to normal as she gasped sharply before canceling her use of dark magic allowing Kiburi to emerge and regain his breath.

As soon as Kiburi recovered, Makuu wasted no time in chewing him out for his insubordination. “Kiburi! What are you doing?”

“What you should have told us to do!” He retorted as he still takes in deep breaths while acting like whatever trauma he took in never happened. “I'm takin' the water we need!”

“Against my orders! You knew I was talking to King Simba along with Princess Celestia to get help.”

“Yes. And together we have found a watering hole that you can have for your own.” Simba further added with a stern tone to which was met with another disgruntled scoff from the croc.

“Hmph!”

“Kion, will you and the Lion and Pony Guard escort Makuu and the crocodiles to their dry season home?” The lion king asked of his son.

“Sure, Dad.”

Kion moved ahead to do so with Makuu personally leading Kiburi on over there to ensure that he doesn’t try anything else and cause more harm than it’s worth.

Speaking of that, Twilight who was about to fly off after them, found herself stopping on the king’s command.

“Hold on, Twilight!”

“Huh?”

“I need you to hang back on this one because we need to talk.” While calm and understanding of the situation he had to be firm with her here. “Twilight…its fair that you have reason to strongly dislike Kiburi and his most recent behavior and want to take him down personally. Believe me from my past experience with Scar after learning the truth about my father. But I have to advise you to show a little more restrain with your enemies. Just look at who’s afraid of you now.” He gestured to the startled herd of Impala still looking on like deer in headlights at the sight of what they just saw.

“But Simba…” Twilight tried to say in her defense. “…he was hurting my friends and was willing to hurt the impala over it.” She briefly looked aside with regret over further frightening them accidentally. “I was just trying to protect everyone.” Was all she could say with all said and done.

“I know you were and I’m not saying that’s a bad thing.” He again assured still trying to be firm but fair here. “I’m just saying you need to keep your emotions and powers under control going forward because others aren’t going see it that way. I mean you’ve heard of how some others are still giving you a hard time?”

“Yes.” She answered knowing exactly what he’s talking about with her ears and eyes lowered down with shame for losing control over herself.

“Twilight…” Celestia chimed in so she can console her as she floated over to them. “…it's okay. And if this is about those who are still giving you a hard time, then don't let it get to you. They're just having a really hard time cooling down from the stress they’ve endured during their captivity.” Twilight failed to remain convinced until she added in a motherly tone with a smile to match while using her wing to get her to look at her. “Just give them some more time and I’m sure whatever missions you and the rest of your friends will face will turn that all around.” She moved to bring her in for a hug.

Twilight felt better with her warm motherly words already but had this to ask of her friend’s father of his parental guidance. “So…as long as I behave myself, we’re all good?”

“Yes, Twilight...” The lion king nodded before gently warning. “…But if I hear word of you causing terror again, then you can expect mandatory and much needed time off from your duties as leader of the Pony Guard coming your way.”

“Okay.” Twilight moved to break apart from her mentor’s hug before moving on towards to where Makuu, Kiburi and the others crocs had gone all while every scene of what had happened been seen and monitored by the skinks.

By the time she caught up with them, the crocs have all settled in their new dry season residence.

“See, Fluttershy?” Beshte said to the previously worried Pegasus. “Now the crocs have their own watering hole. Everything's gonna be fine. Just like Kion said.”

“Oh…” Fluttershy calmed down after seeing and being reminded of this. “Maybe this isn’t such a disaster after all.”

“This is a disaster!” Kiburi once more complained thus reigniting Fluttershy’s previous concerns.

“Oh...”

Beshte was quick to try to nicely assure him otherwise. “I know it's crowded, Kiburi. But it really is a good spot.”

“My dad says there's enough water and fish to last you the whole dry season.” Kion added.

“Oh, really? "Your dad" says so?”

“Hey! "His dad" is your King.” Fuli quickly reminded in response to his disrespectful attitude.

“And let’s not forget that applies to both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.” Rarity added in the same disgusted and scolding tone as the cheetah. “Since they were kind and generous enough to provide you all a way for you to still live in Ponyville should you run out.”

“Yeah. And besides, there's tons of water!” Bunga added before moving to leap into the water to prove it. “I'll show ya! Zuka zama!” He winds up landed on one of the crocidle’s back instead. “Ha! That's some hard water.”

“At least you get to be close to all your friends.” Beshte said still trying to get them to look at the bright side of things.

“And you’re not completely committed to suffering through the dreadful heat.” Rarity added.

“Yeah. Really close!” Bunga repeated. “See? I didn't even get my feet wet!”

Yet Kiburi still can’t take the hint to back off giving attitude. “The honey badger can't even get his feet wet! What kind of watering hole is this?”

Once more, Makuu asserted his pragmatic reasons for accepting this. “I know it's not perfect. But it's the best way to get our float through the dry season along with being able to live in Ponyville when needed. It's a compromise.”

“Compromise? Since when is that the crocodile way?”

“Kiburi…” Makuu said trying really hard to keep his cool in the face of the words coming out of his mouth. “…the dry season is dry. There's not much water anywhere in the Pride Lands. This is our share.”

“Share? We're crocodiles, Makuu!” Kiburi moved to turn his back from Makuu. “We deserve better!”

“This is the best we can get.” Makuu firmly stated. “If you don't like it, you can try your luck in the Outlands!”

But Kiburi preferred to take the third option. “Or I can call for a Mashindano!”

All of the crocodiles gasped in shock in response as the Lion and Pony Guard looked on equally shocked too.

“A Mashindano?” Kion questioned in shock at his bold challenge while Fluttershy fainted.

“Oh my…”

She fell backwards only to be quickly caught by both Rarity and Pinkie who also could not believe what they are hearing.

“A Mashindano!”

“The horribly dreaded and brutal crocodile duel!”

“So now you want to fight me for leadership of the crocodiles, huh?” Makuu questioned seeing what his attitude is coming too as they get face to face with each other.

“It's the crocodile way.” Kiburi asserted with his decision before eyeing Twilight once more. “And not only that, the same applies to the alicorn princess.”

“What?!”

“Seriously?!”

Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash questioned like he has lost his mind now just when the alicorn raised her hoof to assert she handle this as she flies down to the ground.

“Really?” Twilight asked to make sure she is serious about this. “Even after terrifying you just minutes ago?”

“That’s right and without magic!” He asserted. “Think you can handle that?”

“If that’s want you want, then I accept.” She calmly replied.

“Me too.” Makuu nodded in agreement. “Lake Matope at sunset.”

“I know the tradition, Makuu.” Kiburi said as he smugly smirked. “Let's see if you still know how to fight and be able to defend your pretty pony friend too.” He then turned back to Twilight. “And let’s hope you can still fend for yourself without your powers, because you’re going to need it.”

“Don’t get your hopes up.” Twilight retorted unconvinced as both pony and croc went their separate ways to prep up for that upcoming fight.

“Twilight, wait!” Kion cried after her as he chased after her trying to talk her out of it with little luck from the soon to be attempt.

While this was going on, the skinks who just watch Kiburi walk by closely, both smiled before reporting their recent findings back to Scar, Ushari, and Starlight back at the volcano.

Upon hearing the news himself Scar cackled in delight. “A Mashindano?”

“At sunset. Tonight.” Shupavu confirmed.

“ You have brought me valuable information. Well done, Skinks.” Scar complimented to the two who bowed before leaving. “Tell me, Ushari. Does the Mashindano still attract large crowds of Pride Landers?”

“Yes. Yes, it does.”

“Some things never change.” Scar commented feeling very pleased to hear this. “And even the royal family attends the Mashindano. Correct?”

“Yes!”

“So, it's the perfect time to get rid of King Simba along with Princess Celestia.”

Ushari had question marks raised with that proposal. “How are we going to do that?”

“Especially when I have remained hidden until the time is right?” Starlight added finding it quite problematic.

“We needn't do much at all.” He calmly explained. “Kiburi and his crocs will do the dirty work for us. You'd be surprised what can be done while everyone else is distracted by the Mashindano.”

“Really?” Starlight was intrigued. “Like what?”

“Something that I’ll explain another time.” He assured before focusing on the more important matter. “In the meantime, Starlight, Ushari, I need you two to trick Kiburi into thinking he can rule the Pride Lands and Equestria.”

Ushari was still confused. “He'll rule the Pride Lands and Equestria?”

“Of course not!” Starlight corrected. “He couldn’t even beat Twilight without her magic. But that’s what we want him to think so he’ll do what we want.”

“Well said, Starlight.” Scar agreed with the notion he couldn’t have said it better himself.

It was there Ushari now understood of how this works to their advantage. “Yes! Of course!”

Scar smiled in response before giving the duo their instructions. “Now...Here's the plan I want you two to plant in Kiburi's tiny little brain.”

“We’re listening…” Starlight said with both ears open and ready.

Meanwhile back in Ponyville, Kion has arrived at the town’s fitness center where he has found the Princess of Friendship currently at work, vigorously punching and kicking punching bags.

“Twilight…” Kion called out to her.

“Yes, Kion.” She returned while blowing the stuffing out of the last bag before moving to square off with Applejack’s big brother Big Macintosh in the ring. “Ready?” She called out to him.

“Yep!” He replied nonchalantly as usual.

The two proceeded to wrestle it out on the octagon where the two ponies took turns trying to out-muscle each other.

“Why are you doing this?”

“Doing what?” She asked while grunting and pushing through the exercise.

“Giving into Kiburi’s challenge, in front of every Pride Lander?”

“To send a clear message that challenging an alicorn prince / princess is never a good idea.” She answered just when the muscular red pony moved to try to push and pin her down to the mat.

“Is that what you’re really trying to do, or are you trying to make everyone more afraid of you then before?”

“I’m pretty sure the former.” She replied back just when she managed to push Big Mac off of her and moved to charge and tackle him.

“But what about what happened back with the Impalas?” He reminded. “You really scared them back there. And me too.”

“Huh?” She then expressed surprise for a second before reminding herself that she is currently in an ongoing fight and can’t afford to drop her guard before ensuring that Big Mac’s attempted rolling her over to reverse the spin is irreversible.

Upon firmly pinning the large stallion down to the ground, he tapped her arm to signal that he has given up. After doing so, Twilight let him go and moved to help him up before turning to give Kion his full attention while grabbing a towel to wipe the sweat from her forehead along with a bottle of water so she can re-hydrate.

“Did I?” She asked while recalling the brief glimpse of the memory as the cub nodded in response. It was like her breaking speech moment at Diamond Valley that left him breaking down in tears along with placing him in a position where she would have killed him if it weren’t for his honest and sincere apology. “Oh…” She realized before truly pondering her friend’s concerns. “…right. I haven't forgotten about that. Nor did I forget your father’s concerns towards me. That being said I can honestly say that I am not doing it out for the sake of revenge towards someone who pushed me into blowing a fuse but more to put Kiburi in his place. I mean you saw what happened back there even after provoking me the guy still has the nerve to challenge me but only without magic.”

“But how I can be sure…?” Kion still unsure whether to believe her or not.

“You can start by having faith in me.” She simply and calmly said as she took a sip from her water bottle hoisted up by her magic. “Like you did back when it seemed hope was lost not too long ago.” She gestured to his wings as a reminder of that.

Kion gave it some thought and after hearing that reminder he decided to give in. “All right.” He replied with a smile leading to the two to hug it out although the uncertainty of what’s come still remains. “Just try to be careful.”

“Of course.” She smiled. “Anything else?”

“Um, actually, yes…” Kion hesitantly said drawing the mare’s curiosity of where he is going with this. “…are you also worried that Makku is still mad at you for waking him up?”

Twilight’s smile faded before replying. “No…but I wouldn’t be surprise if that was the case.”

“Right…” Kion said understanding of why while trying to mentally think of how to approach this. “…because of why he and his float are awake.”

“Uh-huh.”

“But you were able to talk to him no problem. Nothing else happened?”

“Nope. It was just business leader to leader as usual.” She replied trying to act like it’s no big deal.

Kion could tell that his friend is truthfully not feeling satisfied with it even if things seem all good between them to the point they can cooperate with each other just fine. “For what it’s worth, if Makuu isn’t showing any hostility towards you then I’m sure he has forgiven you and knows the true circumstances behind what happened back then.” He then said with his best words of encouragement and wisdom. “And if it really bothers you, you can always talk to him yourself and ensure there are no hard feelings. Again, your choice, and nobody and nopony would look at you any differently.”

Twilight pondered his advice before turning back to her next training exercise which involves sparing off against a robot dummy of Kiburi courtesy of the town’s pony inventor. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

She then moved away from her conversation before beginning her sparring session with the robot as a final preparation of how to fight the challenger without using her magic while Kion watches on unsure of what she’ll do next as she increases the intensity of her quick and strong attacks on the robot.

At Lake Matophe where the sun is currently setting everyone from the Pride Lands with some known ponies from Ponyville have gathered together all awaiting for the big mashindano between the two crocs with Kiburi even challenging the youngest alicorn princess to fight with without her magic. Hearing this had both alicorn sisters along with Princess Cadance and Shining Armor present to ensure that she will be okay.

“Oh, boy…” Shining Armor muttered as Celestia resisted the urge to nervously pace around in public. “…please tell me you know what you’re getting yourself into this time, Twily…”

“Now, now…” His future wife assured. “…I’m sure she does.” Though she silently prayed to herself knowing that what her future sister-in-law is doing is risky as far as her life and what the fate of the two worlds is concerned.

“My guess is that our dear friend Twilight has mastered hoof-to-hoof combat well enough that she doesn’t need her magic in order to firmly put that egotistical crocodile for good.” Luna figured as she voiced her thoughts to the nervous couple though her look of feeling cautious and ready for anything that might happen did not fade.

Elsewhere amongst the crowd where the Lion and Pony Guard are standing all but one notable pony...

“You think Kiburi can win?” Fuli whisper asked Beshte.

“I hope not.” He honestly shared not wanting to make a losing bet.

“Of course not.” Rainbow scoffed the very idea. “This is Twilight we’re talking about here. If she can terrorize that arrogant croc down then she can do it with anti-magic metal on her horn.”

“If you say so.” Applejack said while urging her friend not to be too sure. “Just try not to over-sell, okay because I don’t ever recall Twilight ever having fought without her magic before.”

“Guess we’ll have to find out ourselves.” Rarity commented as she awaits for her friend’s appearance. “Hopefully she’s picked up enough insight of my karate skills to actually know how to deliver the hurt on that brute.”

“Yes.” Fluttershy weakly said while being comforted by an equally nervous Spike at the thought of her parent-like figure participating in a dangerous fight. “Hopefully she’ll be okay.”

“Couldn’t have said it better, Fluttershy. But knowing her and how she’s been fighting alongside Scar and against recently, I think she’ll have the wing power needed to take him on. And so will Makuu since he’s greatly matured since the last Mashindano.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed. “Makuu's become a good leader and so has Twilight.”

“But where is she?” Fluttershy asked.

“Probably waiting until it’s actually starting so she can make an entrance.” Bunga guessed earning him unsure looks from the others. “What? It’s possible.” He defensively stated.

Meanwhile from the nearby bushes out of sight from the crowd both Starlight and Ushari are secretly conserving with the croc who has now been given the motivation to carry out Scar’s plan.

“And you've discussed the plan with your crocs?” Ushari asked of him.

“Yeah, yeah. They know what to do. You're a smart snake, Ushari. And you Starlight, you’re pretty smart yourself. I like how you both think.”

“Thanks. Means a lot to here from a smart croc himself.”

“And not mention how much I just want to be on the winning side.”

The two returned as they made their leave.

“And you will be!”

“Kiburi!” Tamka, one his followers called. “It's time for the Mashindano!”

“Great.” Kiburi said as he turned to his loyal accomplices. “You three know what to do while I'm fighting, right?”

“Oh, yeah! They'll never see us coming.”

Satisfied, he turns towards the crowd where the two opponents. “Good. Once I defeat Makuu and Twilight, not only will I rule the float, but we crocs will rule the whole Pride Lands and all of Equestria!” He laughed to himself while the other crocs joined in feeling victorious before anything has even been settled.

Like before many Pride Landers were all chanting just when the duelers have met face to face at the very center.

“Mah-shin-dah-no! Mah-shin-dah-no!”

“Here they come.”

“It's starting!”

“This is it.”

Ono, Fuli, and Kyoga all commented upon seeing Makuu and Kiburi approach each other just when Rarity regrouped with her friends. By then Twilight had arrived approaching her arrogant opponent wearing a purple leotard, pink sweatbands on her forehead and legs along with dark purple sleeveless gloves on her fore hoofs.

“All right, Kiburi. You wanted this Mashindano…” Makuu began.

“…Let's see what you got.” Twilight finished while motioning her hoof in her and Makuu’s direction to get their opponent to come and try to make the first move to which he gladly attempted to do.

Kiburi moved to bite her jaws right at her along with trying to trip him by swinging his tail right at her. Twilight was able to swiftly dodge these attacks before returning a powerful kick to the face nearly punching the teeth out of him from the attack.

When Kiburi tried to retaliate, Makuu leaped up forcing the other croc into a deadlock tussle leading to the many spectators to wince at the sight as Kiburi managed to shove Makuu away and tried to slam him hard into the ground.

“Ooh!”

While wincing at the sight, the others still watched on with caution even with their friend getting off to a great start.

At the same time Tamka decided now was the perfect time to carry out the plan. “Okay. Split up and meet at the targets. Then we'll take them down!” He instructed the others before they all slinked away from the crowd.

Makuu was able to free himself before resuming their tussle with Kiburi knocking him aside when he tried to tackle him once more.

“You think that's enough to beat me, Kiburi?”

He then charged and brutally slammed and pinned Kiburi to the ground with Twilight zooming in to deliver a powerful punch and elbow to the ribs to her opponent sending him crashing back first into a tree which broke and fell backwards upon impact.

Once more everyone watching winced at the sight. “Ooh!”

Although it was more than what both Fluttershy and Ono can tolerate.

“Ugh! Crocodile violence! I don't want to watch this.”

“Me neither.”

Both flyers moved to the skies so they can take a breather.

“Good thing Twilight allowed us to be able to do this, right Ono…Ono?”

Ono was however distracted when his keen sight picked up Tamaka sneaking away. “Huh. That's strange.”

“A crocodile leaving the Mashindano?” Fluttershy commented upon noticing.

“Wait a tick... What are you guys up to?” Ono muttered as he picked two other crocs doing the same.

“We better tell Kion!” Fluttershy stated in alarm.

“Affirmative. I’ll be right back.” Ono said to her before flying back down towards the others. “Kion, I just saw three crocodiles leaving the Mashindano.”

“Three crocodiles?” Kion asked to make sure he heard him right.

“Yes. And nothing's more important to the crocodiles than the Mashindano. It doesn't make sense.”

“It doesn't make sense.” Kion agreed. “Keep an eye on 'em along with Fluttershy.”

“Affirmative.”

With that he alerted the rest of his team. “Fuli, Rainbow, Beshte, Applejack, Bunga, Pinkie, Rarity, Kyoga.”

“What’s up?”

“What's the kerbubble, Kion?”

Both the Strongest members of the Guard asked.

“Something's up with the crocs…” He explained. “…but I'm not sure what. We'll need to be careful. There's a lot of animals here. We don't want to scare them and start a stampede. Come on!”

While Kion led the others quietly away, Ono managed to catch up to Fluttershy and quickly came to the same conclusion just as his keen sight saw the three crocodiles sneaking up behind the Royal Family.

“Oh, no!”

“Hapana!” Ono quickly flew down to report this. “Kion! I've figured it out! The crocs! They're sneaking up on your dad!"

“My dad?”

“Not only that, Princess Celestia! And I think they're going to attack them!” Fluttershy added.

“Hevi kabisa!”

“Of course.” Fuli realized. “They're using the Mashindano as a distraction!”

“The nerve of those ungrateful scoundrels!” Rarity remarked in angered disgust.

“Go around the crowd! They're moving to ambush him from behind.” Ono instructed before everyone followed after them and Fluttershy so they can stop this from even happening.

“Let's go!” Kion stated while taking the lead from the ground.

By then, they were ready to execute the plan.

“It's just like Kiburi said.” Tamaka chuckled upon seeing how easy it was to get around unnoticed. “Now, let's do this.”

Right when the three moved to lunge and them, suddenly both a speeding Rainbow Dash slammed into them followed by Beshte slamming into them to keep them a safe distance from the Royal Family.

“If you're smart, you'll stop right now.” Kion warned.

“Well, we're not smart! So get out of our way.” Tamaka retorted before he and the others lunged at those who dared to intervene.

Predictably, this goes down in just mere seconds. Kion and Kyoga managed to tackle the first one with the latter moving to pin his back legs down so Kion can get a firm grasp on top of his head.

Kion growled to which Simba and Celestia had both heard from nearby.

“Wait here…” Celestia whispered to her sister who nodded as she continued watching Twilight in action.

“Kion? Kion!” Simba called out to his son.

“What is going on here?” Celestia seriously asked.

“Nothing now, Dad, Celestia.” Kion assured with a smile as they both saw the restrained crocs.

“They were trying to ambush us.” Celestia deduced.

“And use the Mashindano for cover.” Kion added. “But Ono and Fluttershy saw it coming.”

“Hmmm.” Simba moved to examine Tamaka and the others. “I know these crocodiles. They wouldn't have come up with this themselves.”

“So that means…” Celestia added just when their attention was drawn back to the mashindano where both Makuu and Twilight have placed Kiburi into an unbreakable hold with him grunting in pain and unable to break free this time around.

“What's the matter, Kiburi?”

“Can't move?”

He grunted as he looked ahead to see that Simba is nowhere in sight. "Simba's gone." He said to himself feeling the plan was successful. "Fine." He relented and tap both opponents on the shoulder to tap out.

"Makuu! Makuu! Makuu!" The crocs chanted while the ponies all cheered for the alicorn princess. During which Shining Armor sighed in relief upon seeing his little sister made it out without a scratch.

Just then Kiburi smugly smiled as he made an announcement to everyone. “Ha! This Mashindano means nothing. While you were all watching us fight, my loyal crocodiles took down King Simba and Princess Celestia! Yeah. Yeah, you heard me! And with the Lion King gone and Alicorn Queen, all of you answer to us crocodiles!”

“Really?”

“Is that how it works?”

The two stated with clearly furious and stern expressions as he turned his head towards them and realized that the attempted ambush failed.

“What?” Kiburi was shocked to see this. “But how...”

“The Lion Guard…!” Kion began.

“…And the Pony Guard! That's how!” Twilight finished.

Upon hearing this Makuu quickly moved to assert his innocence. “Your Majesty. I assure you, I had no knowledge of this scheme.”

“I know. This was came from Kiburi.” The lion king acknowledged. “But since you are the crocodile leader, I will defer his punishment to you.”

“Kiburi lost the Mashindano.” He firmly reminded. “He and his followers are no longer welcome in my float. Now, do with him what you both see fit.”

“Very well...” Simba proceeded to approach those who had just committed treason. “Kiburi. You and your followers are banished from the Pride Lands.” Kiburi’s jaws opened in shock by that declaration.

“And not only that…” Celestia added with her wings spread out with a very icy cold tone. “…the same applies to you four in Equestria. Leave now, and never come back.”

“But...” His attempt to protest was firmly with a fierce glare from both Simba and Celestia.

“I said, now.” The former coldly stated as they got face to face.

That combined with Twilight sporting him a vicious growl while briefly sporting her dark magic fueled eyes of anger forced the defiant croc to back down from protesting any further. “Fine.” He barked his jaws in the king’s face before turning away. “But you haven't heard the last of me!”

Kiburi then lead himself and his followers all out of the Pride Lands in disgrace while the Royal Family and the Lion and Pony Guard all shot disgusted and angry looks in their direction for the attempted treason. Twilight herself who was the most furious had to resist the urge to forcibly throw them out of the Pride Lands because of the lion king’s and eldest alicorn princess’s earlier warning.

Upon arriving in the Outlands, Kiburi spotted both Starlight and Ushari waiting for them out of sight from the Pride Lands kingdom. “ You!” Kiburi exclaimed thus waking the cobra up just in time for him to get face to face with them. “You said if we attacked Simba, I could rule the whole Pride Lands! Now what have I got? Nothin'!”

“Yes. It's too bad you lost the Mashindano.”

“A real shame too. Even when one of your opponents was holding back.”

The two said in response.

“"Too bad?" Is that all you got to say about it?” Kiburi angrily questioned still feeling this to be one major life-changing loss.

“One battle doesn't lose a war, my reptile friend.”

“Especially when this is only the beginning.”

The two calmly assured.

“Now you're callin' me a reptile?” Kiburi asked feeling offended by the former’s response. “Gimme one reason I shouldn't eat you two right now.”

“We can give you all the reasons in the Pride Lands.” Ushari answered once more. “But first let us show you something very...Very...Special.” He said with great emphasis on special.

“What kinda special?” He curiously yet suspiciously asked.

“You'll have to see it to believe it.” Starlight replied before she and Ushari led them away. “This way...”

By the time Starlight and Ushari have led Kiburi and his float on over to inside the caldera of the Outlands Volcano it was already nighttime.

“So what's this great thing I'm supposed to see?” He asked upon arriving towards the center of the lava pit. “A volcano?”

Just then Scar’s fiery spirit appeared when the lava boiled with fire appearing right before his very eyes. “I am much more than a volcano!“

To say Kiburi was completely shocked would be an understatement. “Wha... What?

“Welcome to the Outlands, Kiburi.” He greeted just when Janja and his pack made their appearances well-known.

“Yeah. Welcome!” Janja greeted with a sinister cackle.

“What's going on here?”

“Don't worry, Kiburi, we're all friends here.” Scar reassured.

But Kiburi still had mind-boggling questions to ask about all of this. “But I don’t understand! How are you here? I thought you were in jail and stripped of your magic.”

Scar smirked in response. “Let’s just say some friends I made in Tartarus provided me means to make my escape. And while I’m still regaining my strength with every passing day, I’m still not out of the picture yet. I have plans for you and your crocodiles. Big plans indeed! Especially with what’s soon to come…” He evilly laughed just when Janja joins by Kiburi, Ushari, and Starlight’s side as they all watch as Scar ceases his laugh showing them with his magic of what’s to come to which had Kiburi smiling and on board with the fiery demon’s new master plan…

The next day, the Lion and Pony Guard along with the lion king and alicorn sisters have came to check up on Makuu and his float where they are currently staying during the day just when Twilight arrives.

“Twilight…” Kion knows why she is here even with the stoic look on her face when she flew over. “…you sure you feel comfortable with doing this? You know you don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

“Yeah.” Beshte agreed. “Everyone knows what happened back then.”

“I’m sure.” She calmly replied with her back turned before making her way over to the crocodile leader just finishing having a conversation with the three royals. After taking a deep breath just like her former foalsitter had taught her, she spoke up to get his attention by clearing her throat. “Makuu?”

He turned around with an expression that looks threatening yet spoke in a calm tone. “Yes?”

Twilight kept her steely composure as she continued. “Listen, I’m sure you know that it’s my fault that you and your crocs are all awake during the dry season due to my decision to work with Scar.”

“It is, isn't it?” His expression and tone didn’t change thus worrying Fluttershy and Ono.

“Hapana…” Ono gulped while sweating nervously.

“Oh, no…” She whimpered under Rarity and Spike’s comfort who look on equally worried for their friend owning up to her mistake.

Twilight still remained expressionless in the face of “Yes, yes it is. And I just wanted to say I'm sorry."

“I see.” Makuu moved closer towards her as she calmly accepts whatever punishment he has in store for her all without flinching or moving a muscle. “Then, as leader of the crocodiles, I need to make an example of you.”

“You do?”

“Yes.”

Both Ono and Fluttershy covered their eyes as Twilight closed her eyes as Makuu gets up to her face as he prepares to pass on judgement to her.

After a moment he then says with a friendly smile. “I forgive you.”

Twilight opened her eyes in astonishment to hear this as she truthfully was not expecting that. “Really? You do?”

“Yep. You heard me.” Makuu simply replied as he moved to get in his new watering hole since today it is his turn along with the other half of the crocs to reside in the Pride Lands.

As Twilight looked on still wide-eyed at this heartfelt gesture Kion walked up to her friend to explain why. “I told Makuu how your keen foresight in sending Ono and Fluttershy to the sky ended up foiling Kiburi's plan. Not only that he told me he was impressed with how handled Kiburi during the mashindano.”

In addition Princess Celestia had some encouraging words to offer to her. “We all make mistakes, Twilight.” She then leaned in for a “Just Between You and Me moment with her wing briefly draped around her back to say this. “Even I’m not immune to doing them myself.”

“But you also proved yourself invaluable today.” Luna further commended as she approached Twilight with a hoof on her shoulder. “And you proved to them that you have you redeemed yourself in their eyes.”

Simba joined in so he could hug the mare. “You’re learning well.”

“Wow…” She then said now touched by what had just happened as she looks around to her surroundings filled with proud and friendly smiles from everyone around her. “Thank you all.”

“So, Makuu…” Simba called out to him who turned his head towards him in response. “…is this the new "crocodile way?"

“Perhaps it is, Simba. Perhaps it is.” He replied with a small smile before resuming his swimming and relaxing.

“If you ask me, it's a crocodile way I could get used to!” Applejack commented whole-heartedly.

Both Fluttershy and Ono couldn’t agree more than anyone else.

“Me too.”

“A-ffirmative.”

Author's Note

As you all probably could tell, rewriting this up to the part of the first meeting with the crocs wasn't exactly easy, but of course while things are all good between the Princess of Friendship, the ponies, and the Pride Landers, there of course are still a very few select who still can't let be bygone be bygones.

Then there's Kiburi who's being a define Jerkass about the situation along with deliberately being disrespectful towards the alicorn to the point he wound up getting a well-deserved beatdown for it even if it was a little too extreme. And if that wasn't bad enough he actually tries to challenge her again without her powers alongside Makuu in a mashindano.

That being said, that shows what kind of villian Kiburi is, a guy who tried to take eat two birds with one set of teeth and failed.

But of course, he comes to find he really bit off more than he can chew and should have just learned to cut his losses when it's clear it's a lose-lose situation and winds up getting banished from both the Pride Lands and Equestria for his troubles.

At the same time that was also orchestrated by Scar once more, who saw potential in Kiburi and his followers before recruiting them to help out with his agenda here in the Pride Lands with revenge as the main-driving goal on everyone's mind.

And in case for those wondering, I wanted to be able to establish in these first three episodes that while Twilight has returned to being a kind-hearted mare she was for the first two seasons, she still has her dark side popping up every now and then which unfortunately has causes some problems here and there. And since this is just the beginning, it may pop up later on in this story with probably a few more bones being picked at involved.

Anyways, with the new season established, next up will be "Castle Sweet Castle." where Twilight tries to get accommodated with her new home so look out for that sometime around Valentine's Day so stay tuned...

Episode 4: Castle Sweet Castle

Episode 4:

Castle Sweet Castle

Twilight was hard at work today and by that she is doing it by a cute little ferret clean. She decided to give her friends Fluttershy and Ono help in cleaning her dirty animal friends even if it meant them getting covered in mud as a result. Along with the egret having a few animals to pursue along the way since some of them decided to mess with him along with refusing to get cleaned.

“Get back here you filthy pigs! You need to get cleaned!” He shouted after the teasing and stubborn animals running away from him.

Sometime later just after cleaning the last one, Ono wiped away the sweat from his forehead, sighing in relief that they finally got the job done.

"Phew! That’s the last one! And thank goodness!” He declared before passing out onto the grass.

Fluttershy shook her head in amusement before turning to the alicorn princess. “Thanks for helping me get them so fresh and clean, Twilight."

"No problem, happy to do it!" She happily replied.

"You probably can't wait to get back to your castle and take your own bath, huh?"

Twilight however, widened her eyes in response before masking it with a smile. “Aren't there more animals that need cleaning?"

Fluttershy briefly looked on in surprise before replying. "I think you, Ono, and I are the only ones left, and I can't wait to get the mud out of my mane." Fluttershy said by trying to at least remove some of the mud with her already muddy hoof.

Twilight however not wanting to leave just yet anxiously looked around for an excuse. She smiled as she found a way to buy herself sometime when she noticed Angel Bunny behind her and quickly kicked him into the nearby mud puddle "Oh, no! Angel got dirty!" She said with faux surprise. "I'd better stay longer to help give him a bath too!" She quickly moved to start scrubbing the bunny behind the ears in the bucket of soapy water much to his dismay.

Ono having noticed this turned to Fluttershy with a curious and concerned look wondering what was that about. Fluttershy just shrugged allowing Twilight’s company for the time being. “Fluttershy?”

“It’ll only take just a little bit to do a little clean up job. Can’t be that bad, right?” Fluttershy replied even if she did find something odd about it herself.

Question is what?

Later on when it was now time for the sun to set, Ono, Fluttershy, and Twilight were all now inside the cottage. Both the Pegasus and egret managed to clean themselves up while Twilight was still covered in mud, being too preoccupied with drying off the newly clean Angel Bunny.

"Thank you ever so much for staying to give Angel a bath too, but, um... I think he's dry."

“Huh? Ooh!” She pretended to realize before ceasing to do so. When she removed the towel off of the annoyed bunny…his fur became as puffy and poofy as Pinkie’s mane. “Oops.” She passed it off as an accident with a sheepish grin.

Seeing this had Fluttershy wanting to find a way to get Twilight to go home. As much as she liked having her around, at this point the princess had now overstayed her welcome.

"Goodness! It's gotten late! You really didn't have to stay all day. Not that we don't appreciate it. Isn't that right, Angel?" He grunted in agreement.

“I know.” She admitted. “But I mean it’s the least I could do.” She then eyed something. "Oh, are those cobwebs? I better take care of them before I go.” She then levitated a feather duster and started cleaning the bird houses inside the cottage.

Fluttershy realized she needed to try a different approach. "I for one am exhausted." she yawned. "Plus, I really need to rest up for that big pancake breakfast tomorrow. And I'm sure you have to get the castle ready.”

Twilight heavily sighed seeing that Fluttershy would like for her to leave right now. “Okay. Probably for the best.” She put down the feather duster before smiling at a new idea that just came up in her mind as her ears perked up. “Maybe I'd better see if Pinkie Pie needs help with the pancakes!"

She then immediately flew out of the cottage, leaving Fluttershy to sigh in relief thinking that she would never leave.

Though Ono, however eyed after her suspiciously feeling there was something off with her behavior, but couldn’t quite put his beak on it.

The next morning, the Lion and Pony Guard all gathered inside Twilight's castle to have their pancake breakfast. In addition, Kiara was there to join them after accepting Pinkie’s invitation. After all, she’s never been able to enjoy a casual get together with her friends a whole lot nowadays.

In the dining hall, everyone was all enjoying the sweet breakfast treats displayed in front of them with the ponies eating them rather nosily. They were decorated with strawberries, whipped cream, blueberries, chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles.

While the ponies ate with their mouths along with both Beshte and Bunga, Rarity ate hers with a fork, along with the rest of the Lion Guard, but they couldn’t resist savoring the remarkable sugary sweetness of the pancakes. They were the really best pancakes they had ever had.

Beshte was the first to speak his compliments to the chef. “Poa, Pinkie, these are amazing!”

“No kidding! They’re Un-Bunga-licous!” Bunga agreed while talking with his mouth full and happily munching on them.

“Bunga! Manners please!” Rarity firmly insisted while clamping a hoof on her jaw to get him to stop since he was starting to spew chunks from his mouth.

“Sorr…” He loudly burped in the unicorn’s face. “…I mean…” He burped again. “…I mean…” He burped super loudly. He then nervously laughed upon seeing that he accidentally messed up her mane. “Excuse me.”

“No worries…” Rarity returned with slight discomfort as she quickly grabbed a brush and combed her mane back into place. “…it’s just hair.” She then shuddered before spraying herself with a fragrant perfume bottle before smiling and resumed eating her pancake breakfast.

"I agree!" Applejack said next to both conversations. “Great job, Pinkie Pie!”

Pinkie Pie was face first into the pancakes, and once she looked up, her face was covered in frosting and chocolate chips. She smiled and slurped the frosting and chips from her face with her long tongue. "Thanks! Twilight spent all night helping me pick the flavor!" she said as she stacked more pancakes on top of the ones she already had.,

“Did she really?” Kiara asked sounding impressed yet curious. “How did she single out what would be the best flavor? A stat check?”

“Yes, but no.” Pinkie giggled knowing that’s true to the alicorn’s character before replying. “I kept thinking we'd found the right one, but she insisted I make even more to try. And more. And more and more and more and more! It was like she never wanted to—"

"Leave?" Fluttershy finished with her ears lowering.

"Exactly!" Pinkie chomped on the tall stack, which didn't even tumble or fall over, "Eventually we ran out of time so we just went with every-berry-any-chip-surprise!" She scooted over to Ono and spoke in a loud hush tone, "The surprise is I lost a measuring spoon in the batter. Somebody's gonna get a very special pancake!"

Once she was gone, Ono used his keen sight to make sure that he doesn’t have that very special pancake himself.

"Up all night, huh?" Fuli curiously asked before tilting her head. "Is that why she's so, uh...out of it?"

All eyes turned to the princess, who was snoring in her chair with her head back. Her body was covered in mud, leaves and her mane was just outright messy. To Kiara, it’s like being reminded of the whole incident that led to them being covered in mud before overseeing the Royal Buffalo Wallow, only messier.

"Um, I don't mean to sound unappreciative," Fluttershy spoke up as she shared her thoughts. “, but has anybody else noticed that Twilight has been a little too helpful lately?"

“You’re not the only one, Fluttershy, because I too was there when she was at the cottage all day yesterday helping clean the animals, and Angel, twice.” Ono shared feeling the same way.

Applejack shared her thoughts next. "Now that you mention it, she was lendin' a hoof at Sweet Apple Acres the other day and stuck around 'til near midnight. Dug up fifty tree-plantin' holes when all I needed was ten."

Beshte shared his thoughts next. “After I got back home the other day, Twilight was there to ensure that me and my dad’s pod were all well-hydrated and clean. Much appreciated, but a little odd of her to go through all of that for us.”

Rarity was next to share her input on the matter. "She spent an entire afternoon rearranging a single gem drawer at the boutique. An entire afternoon!"

Kyoga spoke up next, “She was more than willing to show up Diamond Valley to help grow a ton of new plants and grass there, even when it’ll take months for the grass to grow.”

“Well at least there will be more grass and plants to grow back on the ground.” Bunga shared while shoveling his pancakes. He then sees Rarity frowning upon her again. “Oops, I mean.” He gulped and then looked away while downing a cup of water. “Excuse me.” He moved to get himself more water from the kitchen before he could another etiquette lesson from the fashionista.

“Now that you mention it…” Kion spoke up as he recalled his past thoughts about Twilight. “…I’ve seen her sleeping right outside the cave at Pride Rock, apparently she was sleeping there all night, every other night, ever since the Pride Lands is back under my dad’s control. Weird considering that she usually sleeps in a bed like all of the other ponies back home.” Kiara could only nod in agreement.

"You think that's weird?" Rainbow Dash spoke up with her thoughts on the manner. "She raced me and Fuli, like, a hundred times the other day. In the skies, on the ground, you name it! And traded wins and losses every time!

“She just kept goin'!” Fuli spoke up in agreement. “Best out of ten, best out of twenty, best out of a hundred! I mean, I know hanging out with me is awesome, but it was like she'd rather keep winning and losing than—"

"Leave?" Ono finished figuring that would be the case in this pattern.

"Yeah. Who does that?" Rainbow asked everyone as they drew their attention to the alicorn resuming her snoring now resting her head into her pancake stack like she was nuzzling a bed pillow.

“Apparently, Twilight does.” Bunga replied while walking back to the table with a full glass of water in tow. “Question is why? Why does she feel more committed into wanting to spend time with us along with wanting to do extreme sports every time we have free time. I mean I’m all down for that, but it’s just before this whole war and fighting, she never wanted to do any of this stuff with us.”

“That’s true…” Fuli spoke up feeling amazingly surprised at him saying something really smart for once. “…she has. Don’t suppose she has an ulterior motive for doing all of this, Kion?”

“I don’t know.” Was all Kion could say about it.

"I think she might be avoidin' somethin'." Applejack theorized, while Pinkie Pie tapped her plate so she can flip it and release the pancakes into the air before eating them all in one gulp. "Soon as she wakes up, we're gonna find out what."

Pinkie began to cough and the measuring spoon came shooting out of her mouth, landing on Ono's stack, much to his disgust.

"I win!"

“Congratulations.” Ono dully replied with a tone of disgust while carefully pulling the spoon out of his stack with his own spoon.

At the sound of Pinkie's cheer, Twilight finally woke up, with a pancake poking through her horn. "Huh?! I'm pancake! I mean, awake…" She smiled in embarrassment as her friends all looked at her with concern.

Ono spoke up first, “Uh, Twilight? Is there something you want to tell us?"

Fuli moved to gently remove the pancake from Twilight's horn before speaking kindly to her. "Look Twilight, here’s the thing. You know how much we appreciate everything you do for us, right?" She flinched looking disturbed when Pinkie Pie jumped up and gobbled the pancake down in one mouth before turning back to Twilight. "And we love having you around…but…is there, by any chance, that you could, possibly, be avoiding something? Like something in here or there or anywhere."

Twilight lowered her ears seeing that all eyes of concern are on her. "Oh, has it been that obvious?"

"Kinda." Rainbow replied.

"A little." Fluttershy added.

“Affirmative.” Ono added bluntly.

“Fraid so.” Beshte gently added.

“Can’t say otherwise.” Kyoga firmly said.

“Sorry, Twilight.” Kion honestly said unable to say otherwise.

“Yeah.” Fuli sympathetically and honestly answered.

Twilight knew that she had to tell the truth here, otherwise they keep digging in until she confesses. "Okay. The truth is... I know it's silly, but I... I've been avoiding... this place." She gestured to her surroundings thus telling them it is this very castle that she has been avoiding all this time.

Rarity gasped in shock at this revelation. "Why in Equestria would you want to avoid such a gorgeous castle?"

"Yeah, this place has everything!" Bunga said as he stood up before leaping across the table with his voice echoing across the room. "Big tall ceilings that make you feel tiny!"

Pinkie Pie looked at her reflection on the floor as she laid on it and shivered, "Shiny new floors that are cold to the touch! Brrr!"

Bunga and Pinkie then both stepped outside as the former gestured to the rest of the palace, "And it even has loooong empty hallways!" Sadly though the ghostly sounding echo only further emphasized Twilight’s point of why she doesn’t feel very home here.

"Okay, I get it." Pinkie then said in defeat.

“My bad.” Bunga added while apologetically looking on in her direction after seeing of how downcast the alicorn is right now.

"The castle is amazing…But it just…” She heavily sighs. “…it doesn’t feel like home.” She then sadly rested her head on the table with the comforting paws of both Kiara and Fuli by her side. "It doesn’t even feel fit for a happy pony. It just doesn’t feel like home fit for me.”

It didn’t take a more subtle hint to clue to them that right now she deep down is not a happy pony.

Rarity however chuckled in response thinking this is an easy fix. "Oh, is that all? Why, you simply need to decorate, darling. Make this space your own!"

“Surely there’s something we can do to make it look more comforting and fitting for a great friend.” Beshte offered.

"It's just so daunting!" Twilight counter-replied. "I-I don't even know where to start!"

"You can start by letting us do it for you." Rarity firmly offered. "We will make this the castle of your dreams!"

“Also, while they’re at it…” Kiara spoke up while placing a gentle claw through the alicorn’s mane. “…maybe we can treat you to a trip to the Ponyville Spa…” She then removed her claw and shook away the dirt and twigs that got in her nails. “…you sure could use it.”

“I agree dariling.” Rarity supported that suggestion whole-heartedly as she levitated a mirror for Twilight to take a look at herself. "I'm saying this with love, but... have you looked in a mirror lately? I've never seen you look this... mmmm…"

"Frazzled?" Fluttershy finished.

"Yes! That is absolutely the word I was going to use."

Twilight looked at herself and realized that her friend was right. "Ooh, I guess I do need a little help. And so does my castle.” She then turned to Kiara hopeful for company. “Would you like join me, Kiara?"

Kiara smiled in return much to her surprise. “I would love to, Twilight.”

“Really?”

“Of course. It was very relaxing when I was there the last time, and really enjoyed doing it with you back then and I would be more than happy to join as a friend like before.”

Twilight smiled at her friends seeing the support she was getting as always. "Well, I just know you'll all do a great job, because nobody knows me better than you."

"We'll make this place feel cozier than hot cider on a rainy day." Applejack vowed.

Rainbow Dash and Bunga both gasped with delight when they heard this. "There's gonna be cider?!" They exclaimed with excitably with an eager taste for the drink.

“She was using that as an expression.” Kyoga dryly clarified causing the two to pout in disappointment.

“Aww!”

They both quickly corrected themselves when Fuli glanced at them disapprovingly causing them to hastily correct themselves for thinking about themselves.

“Uh, I mean, let's decorate!"

“Lets!”

"Oh, no! Did I miss the pancakes?!" Came from Spike’s voice when he came walking inside carrying a blanket and a Rarity blush toy while rubbing his eyes. Once he fully woke up he ran up to the table and prepared to eat the closet stack of pancakes in front of him. "I sleep like a baby under that cold, cavernous ceiling."

"Spike, I'm so glad you're here!" Rarity kindly greeted as he munched on the pancakes.

"Really?"

"Yes! You and Kiara are taking Twilight to the spa!"

"Great! I've been meaning to get my claws done!"

Spike continued stuffing his face with pancakes, only to receive looks from the others. "Oh, you mean now." He realized with his mouth full. He stuffed a few more into his mouth and took two more to go. The little guy hadn't eaten yet after all. After Twilight, Kiara, and Spike all walked out the door, the others were ready to get right to work.

“Everyone, let’s get to work!” Kion said confidently to the others while noticing that Ono was eyeing something peculiar. Mainly the Rarity doll, Spike had left behind in the dining room.

“What in…” Was all Ono could say before Spike quickly retrieved it.

“Don’t ask!”

All Ono could do was stare speechlessly while turning to the giggling unicorn behind him whether he should find it creepy or flattering of the little dragon’s crush on Rarity. But with more important matters to tend to he turned his attention back to the castle ready to give it a makeover that’ll help a

"Come on, y'all!" said Applejack, "We've got work to do!"

To kick start the process the Lion and Pony Guard got together for a group musical number in pursuit of getting a good smile on their friend’s face the next time she walks inside this very castle.

First Rainbow Dash.

“Let's all work together

To make this castle shine.”

Rarity polished the crystals with a blanket to give it a shimmer before singing next.

“Once we add some sparkle

It'll feel, it'll feel, it'll feel...”

Then everyone sings all together.

“It'll feel divine.”

Applejack headed home and filled a wagon full of apples, hay and various farm items as she sang next with Beshte accompanying her in gathering tools and supplies needed to make the necessary readjustments.

“Crates of apples an' bales o' hay

Just makes ya feel at home.”

While she was singing, Fluttershy gathered together some animals from her cottage.

“Furry friends and some popinjays

So she won't be alone.”

Everyone then sang all together.

“And we'll make, and we'll make, and we'll make

This castle a home.”

Pinkie Pie slid down the staircase, grabbing various balloons as she did while singing with Bunga on her tail literally.

“There's nothing like balloons and confetti

To greet you every time you walk through the door.”

Rainbow flew around her room, picking posters of the Wonderbolts and awards while taking another turn at singing again.

“She'll need this and those

Posters us, as heroes

How could anypony awesome ever ask for more?”

Ono went off to get a wagon of books that are to Twilight’s liking with Kion doing the same alongside him.

Both Fuli and Kyoga took a look around the castle to find anything that needs improving by both scouting the entire castle and getting a look at every single room it has.

Ono moved to sing while flying ahead with Kion doing the heavy-lifting for him.

“Pages filled of myth and truth

To ignite her creative mind.”

Next Fuli sang.

“A shimmering light to see what she finds.”

Then seeing that the former is giving her the encouraging look, Kyoga moved to sing next,

“Reminders of our glory days, to help her shine!”

After everyone got everything they needed, they all regrouped back inside the castle so they can all get to work.

Everyone sings all together.

“And we'll make, and we'll make, and we'll make

A home she'll adore.”

Fuli then sang again.

“Bright curtains of flowing silk and lace.”

Then Rainbow Dash sang.

“This picture of me winning a race.”

Bunga then sang.

“Party cannons to give her a surprise.”

Applejack then sang.

“Hoes and rakes and some more garden supplies.”

Fluttershy then sang.

“Getting hugs from this nice, big, friendly bear.”

Rarity then sang.

“Decorate with some gemstones bright and rare.”

Bunga then sang.

“More of this and that.”

Pinkie then sang.

“Don't forget the party hats.”

Rainbow then sang.

“How could anypony awesome ask for more than that?”

Then Kion sings.

“Let's all work together.”

Beshte then sang.

“To show that we have shown

Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

Then they all sang together one more time.

“How we make, how we make, how we make

This castle a home

How we make, how we make

This castle a home

How we make, how we make

This castle a home!”

A balloon pops after they finished singing.

After the song ended, everybody (minus Kion, Fuli, and Kyoga) took a few steps back to see their work at progress. But when they did they all cringed with their smiles dropping upon seeing the finishing job. Apparently, they were all so caught up in the decorating that, they didn’t seem to realize up until now what they have actually done instead.

The animals were dragging dirt around with their paws, playing around in the hay Applejack had brought, eating the apples from the barrels. Red, orange, and yellow quilts were placed around the floor beside the hay. Marble pillars stood around the room, with vases of flowers, standing on top. Curtains with diamonds were displayed on the windows while several more diamonds hung off the walls, alongside Rainbow Dash's Wonder Bolts posters and trophies on the shelves.

Rarity had vases with flowers almost in every corner as well as a portrait of all of the Lion and Pony Guard as the "center" piece. Fluttershy had placed a few bird houses here and there, along with a white picket fence for the petting zoo.

Everywhere they turned they saw balloons, candies, pink curtains, lace, flowers, posters, animals, anything but the kitchen sink. In fact, if they searched hard enough they could very possibly find it. It was one big mess of items mismatched together, clashing horribly. The entire castle looked like a hoarder's home instead of that of a princess.

“Whoa!” Bunga stated with pure shock with what they just did together.

Applejack cleared her throat, trying to sound convincing, "Wow, guys and girls! We did a... great job... together…" she laughed nervously while rubbing the back of her neck and sweating rather embarrassed by their rather shoddy attempt.

"We sure did... something." Rainbow added with uncertainty.

“Like creating a great big mess.” Ono bluntly remarked.

A few birds flew onto Bunga’s head with a few critters rubbing their heads against his legs. "Fluttershy, I love that you brought so many animals." He commented unconvincingly.

Fluttershy noticed Rainbow’s Wonderbolt trophies. "Are these your trophies?"

"I prefer to think of them as everypony's trophies but with my name permanently etched onto them.” Raimbow smugly replied just when both Fuli and Kyoga walked in.

“Is it really?” Fuli asked unconvinced yet shocked of what they just walked into.

“Because it looks somebody tried to blend and mesh together a stinky soup together.” Kyoga added. “And by that I mean bad enough that the biggest and reddest dog in the world wouldn't want to eat for dinner.”

Rarity trying to save face chuckled nervously as she tried to find a way to compliment Applejack's additions. "My my, Applejack, bringing the outdoors inside, it's... earthy... What a lovely touch!" She levitated one of the quilts and sniffed it, before gagging briefly. "Are these quilts vintage?"

"Nope, just old!" Applejack replied as she shielded her eyes from the shimmering diamond decorated curtains Rarity had created. "Unlike your sparkly window doohickeys which are... why, they're just swell!"

Pinkie Pie along with Bunga, were the only ones who remained happy about the whole thing, jumped up with glee. "No one said anything about my hidden confetti cannons! Oh, right! They're hidden!"

“Well of course not, Pinkie. That’s what makes it a surprise.” Kyoga sarcastically remarked.

Fuli however just groaned in response to their friend’s terrible efforts into making light of all of this. “Seriously? This looks terrible! What were you all thinking?!”

All eyes turned to the main doors, where Kion had just walked in. "Hey guys, how’s the decorating going…What in the name Simba?!" The little lion cub was unquestionably shocked by what he was seeing.

"Oh, Kion! Are you, Kiara, and Twilight done already?" Rarity asked.

"Don't worry, I just checked in with Spike and he ordered her the super-deluxe mane blow-out! She'll be a while." He answered as he walked inside the room, while still cringing and understanding how this calamity of a mess happened. “But more importantly, what happened here? This place looks terrible!"

“That’s what I said, too!” Fuli remarked in agreement with a smug “I told you so!” glance towards the others.

"It's pretty bad, right?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"This place looks like a mishmash of knickknacks." Applejack commented.

Rarity tapped her chin as she too admitted. "Hmm, I suppose it is a little cluttered."

"What are you guys talking about?" Pinkie Pie joyfully said otherwise. "I think it looks super fun!" Right on cue, one of her hidden cannons went off, releasing confetti everywhere. The noise startled Fluttershy's animals causing them to all run around the castle in a panicked frenzy, tumbling everything they bump into. Pinkie Pie joined in the mayhem, running with the animals while wearing a party hat. "Whee!" She cheered much to Fuli’s further dismay.

Fluttershy tried to calm the animals down, but it was all in vain due to the very little space inside the room. "Oh! Oh, no! Please don't do that! If you all just take a deep breath and calm down—" She ended up taking a step back when one of the pillars fell and broke before her eyes.

Two chipmunks climbed up on Rarity's curtains, much to her horror, "No! That bunting is embroidered by hoof! Don't you move one more paw!" She crossly warned. But even though they obeyed they still wound up sliding down and ripped the curtains. Rarity's now at her breaking point mustering her strength and adrenaline into shouting a loud and powerful voice across the room to put an end to this.

"Everybody stop!"

At her command, every animal stopped on their tracks, with even Pinkie Pie freezing in place. Once the dust had settled, everyone took a look at their surroundings upon seeing the serious damage the animals have caused during the chaos. Posters fell from the walls, the flowers were scattered all over the floor, all of the balloons were popped, hay, confetti and squashed apples were everywhere, vases were shattered, curtains were torn and the pillars had fallen and broken into pieces upon hitting the floor.

"Okay, now it's a mess." Pinkie said while still smiling, right before another confetti cannon exploded.

“About time you realized it.” Fuli replied rather annoyed at this point while dusting the confetti off of her fur.

"What're we gonna do?!" Rainbow asked on the verge of panicking himself.

“Well I can tell you one thing we’re not going to do…” Kion firmly stated. “We’re not going panic!”

“Does that include…” Pinkie tried to ask.

“Yes it does!” Fuli firmly interrupted mid-sentence.

"Anyways…” Kion continued. “…we need to do something else because Twilight's blow-out won't take that long. If she was avoiding the castle before, she'll never want to set hoof in here now!"

"Come on, guys, we've gotta do something!" Bunga stated as he hopped onto Beshte’s back. "Twilight's counting on us!"

Rarity then turned back to the leader of the Lion Guard. "Kion, you've got to get back to that spa and stall her! Whatever you do, don't let her come home!"

"For how long?"

"Well, uh, maybe you could manage it 'til... sunset-ish?" She asked of him with a hopeful smile and batted eyes, which only had Kion looking on at her finding it weird with a matching expression and an arched eyebrow.

"All right. I’ll see what I can do, just try not to make a habit of doing it to me. I’m not Spike."

“Oh, of course, darling. My bad.”

“I’ll be back!” Kion turned and ran out of the castle on towards the spa.

After he had left, Fuli stepped forward to take charge of the situation. "Okay, we all agree the castle is too cluttered, right? So why doesn't everybody take one or two of their own decorations out and we'll see how it looks?"

Everyone all nodded in agreement and got to work, while hopeful that Kion could buy them enough time for them to fix everything.

Meanwhile, Kion arrived at the spa, where he is greeted by Spike admiring his claws. "Hey Kion! How do my claws look."

"Looks great, Spike.” He quickly complimented, wanting to get quick to what he wants to say. “Where’s Kiara?”

“With Twilight having quite a discussion together.” He answered. “Like best buds hitting off together, girl to girl.”

“Oh, really?” He laughed while rolling his eyes unable to help but feel a little jealous with their special connection.

“Come on Kion, you know that Twilight values you and Kiara as best friends equally.” Spike reminded.

“Yeah, yeah.” He said with an accepting sigh. “Anyways, before anything else, I need to tell you, we can’t let Twilight go back to the castle just yet.”

“Why not?”

“It’s still a mess.” He answered before trying to explain it in a way that Spike will understand. “Like Pinkie trying to combine actual cotton with candy.”

“Eww. Good thing you there to taste test it others you wouldn’t have been the only one coughing hairballs.”

“Don’t remind me, anyways, we need keep Twilight away from the castle until sunset. Any ideas?”

Spike thought for a moment before coming up with an idea. “I think we can arrange something to keep her here longer.” He answered before they walked into the room where Kiara is watching Twilight having her hair down by a hair blower machine.

“Kion!” His sister happily greeted.

“Hi, Kiara!” He kindly greeted.

“Kion! You’re back!” Twilight happily greeted just when the lid was removed from her head to show her newly restyled mane. A spiky and rock-style look with the rest of her long sparkly mane tied in a bun. “How do I look?”

"Great!" They both said very quickly and nervously replied.

"And more importantly, how does the castle look?" Twilight then asked, removing strands of her new hairdo from her eyes.

The two shared an unsure glance at each other before answering really nervously. “Great?" Kiara looked on suspiciously by their response.

"I can't wait to go home and see it!" Twilight got up and prepared to leave only to for Kion to quickly intercept.

“Twilight! Hold up, since we’re here, why don’t we have a massage together? I don’t think I have ever had one ever!”

“Yeah!” Spike immediately agreed before pulling out a brochures. “I was really hoping to get, uh... this thingy!"

Twilight read the specific massage Spike is seeking to get while looking on very confused. "The 'Extra-strength-hot-stone-deep-tissue massage'?"

Kion looked visibly uncomfortable with the idea as Spike gulped nervously, "Yep!"

“Yeah…” Twilight shook her head against the idea of him getting that kind of massage. “…No. I think the traditional massage, but you go for it."

One of the spa ponies walked up to the group through the door. "Did somepony order massages?"

Just then the wall crashed through when Bulk Biceps appeared, shouting his famous phrase, "Yeah! Let's do this, little dragon!" He then took Spike, using his pecks, and smashed into the wall again.

The dismayed lady rolled her eyes in response. "Oh, I hate it when he does that. Come with me, Princess."

“Sure…but first.” She politely excused herself briefly so she can stop Bulk Biceps from inflicting pain on her son. “Bulk Biceps! Let him go! He’s not getting that extra strength massage!”

Before Kion could follow after the others he was stopped in his tracks when Kiara cleared her throat and gave her brother a very serious and stern look. “Kion? What’s going on?”

“Nothing...” Kion innocently replied.

“But….?” She sternly expected the truth.

“…but the castle still needs a lot of work. We didn’t want to further discourage her from returning.” Kiara looks on unconvinced. “Really. Please just don’t say anything for now.”

“Fine.” She reluctantly agreed for his sake. “But you’re telling her after all this is over. Last thing we need is you giving her reason to not want to trust us anymore.”

“I understand.” Kion accepted that response yet unaware that Twilight herself was secretly listening on their conversation.

Elsewhere back at the castle…

"Come on, Rarity. Everybody has taken somethin' out except you." Applejack said to her who is still unable to decide of what to remove.

"Ooh, I know! I simply can't decide."

Rainbow pointed to a portrait with the entire Lion and Pony Guard team in a jewel encrusted frame. "How about this?"

"No! Not that! Anything but that!"

"How about these?" Ono pointed towards the flowers which were placed up on the wall.

"Oh, but those brighten up the whole room! They're my favorite accent!"

"Then let's lose the curtains." Rainbow suggested. "The room wouldn't need brightening if they weren't making it so dark!"

"Not them! They're my favorite too!"

Rainbow growled in annoyance while Ono rolled his eyes before speaking his mind about her indecisiveness. "They can't all be your favorite!" He then made the decision for her. "Okay, Rainbow, take down the portrait. We all know what we look like." Rainbow immediately did so without question as she flew out of the room with the image in tow.

Rarity huffed in anger. "Well, the room still looks a little bit cluttered, doesn't it? Perhaps I'll take down a poster or two. Only to be helpful, of course!" She proceeded to levitate away some of Rainbow's posters off of the walls, greatly angering the Pegasus when she returned.

"Okay, everypony calm down." Applejack urged of them to stop before this could spiral out of control. "I'm sure we can find a way to remove the clutter together."

"You're absolutely right, dear." Rarity agreed…right before removing A.J's quilts out of the room, with Rainbow assisting by kicking them out with her back legs.

"Hey, those are my warmin' quilts!"

Rainbow Dash and Rarity shared a hoof pump together, "Together!"

Pinkie Pie noticed that Fluttershy's birds were popping her balloons. "Fluttershy! Tell your birds to stop pecking at my balloons!"

Fluttershy narrowed her eyes at her in response. "I guess they must not like being scared out of their wits by exploding confetti cannons or something."

"But we can't get rid of the cannons! I don't remember where I hid them."

Another confetti cannon exploded and another argument ensued between them over what to add or take away.

“Allow me to help you!” Bunga offered in a rather mean tone while moving to remove some of the additions that Ono had placed in the room.

“Hey! Bunga! She’ll need those books!”

“No she won’t!”

“Uh guys.” Beshte tried to speak up to them to stop to no avail. “Come everyone, if we could just…”

Both Fuli and Kyoga just groaned and buried their faces in their paws knowing that at this rate the job is never going to get done in time before Twilight gets back.

So after having enough, Fuli shouted to everyone. “QUIET!”

Everyone stopped in their tracks, before focusing on the cheetah annoyed out of her wits by their arguing. “Seriously? What is wrong with you all?! And since we’re getting nowhere with these additions then we’re just going to have to take everything out of here and start over again!”

“But…” Bunga futilely tried to protest.

“I said now!” She firmly stated thus scaring everyone into complying with her orders with no more questions asked.

After the massages, to which Twilight was thankfully able to save Spike from the unnecessary message that would left the poor dragon from being able to walk, the four all walked across town. Everyone was all looking very relaxed from the experience with whatever tension they previously had smoothed over from the massages they were given.

"Great suggestion, Spike. Kion. I feel totally relaxed."

“Me too.” Kiara said in agreement.

“Couldn’t have said it better.” Kion also agreed.

“Me neither.” Spike also chimed in as he stretched his back to loosen up that last knot on his back. “Oh yeah, that’s better.”

"You want to hop on?" Twilight offered. "Maybe I can get us to the castle faster."

Spike’s eyes widened along with Kion who visibly cringed again before the latter spoke up against the idea. “Uh…actually…Twilight… I was hoping we could take the scenic way back."

Twilight looked unsure of the idea. "I don't know."

"I think it's a great idea!” Spike agreed with Kion. “Walking is good for post-massage circulation."

Twilight arched an eyebrow since it is becoming perfectly clear to her that they both are hiding something from her in regards to the castle. "Really? I've never heard that theory."

“Me neither.” Kiara agreed but went along with it for Twilight’s sake. “But I suppose there’s no harm in it. It’s not like it’s going anywhere.”

“True.” She admitted since she truthfully doesn’t want to go back to the castle just yet before giving into the boy’s request to walk across town, enjoying the warm comforts from the shining sun.

At first, it was all peaceful and tranquil, at least until they spotted something that dampened the mood in Twilight's heart.

The Golden Oak Library…or at least, what was left of it. After her and Kion’s battle with Tirek, the place was blown to bits. Everything that she once had there was gone for good. Seeing this had Twilight sighed once she looked upon the tree.

I really miss this place. We had so many wonderful memories here."

Spike couldn’t help but tear up at the scene too. "We did, didn't we…?"

"Oh, Spike, I'm so sorry.” Twilight realized as she brought the little dragon into a warm embrace. “Of course losing the Golden Oak Library was hard for you too.” Both the lion siblings wished they could relate to their situation, but they didn't as many memories of them. Nor did they know what’s it’s like to lose a home since Pride Rock has stayed intact even when Scar briefly took over.

“It sure was.” Kion could only say before giving his sincere condolences. “Sorry that happened to you Twilight. I may not have had a special attachment to it like you but I know how much it meant to you.”

“Me too.” Kiara added as she spotted a little flower from one of the branches still intact from the explosion before moving to climb up and get before climbing back down.

Kion immediately picking up on what she is doing draws a paw into the dirt and manages to dig up an acorn along a small plant that has started to grow in the ground right where the library originally once stood.

“Twilight…” Kion said to her as he and Kiara showed her what they uncovered. “…found something you might want to see.” Twilight turned and saw the acorn and small baby plant in the ground Kion had a claw pointed in its direction. “Maybe a little something to help you remember the good times you have of the place and maybe knowing there’s a good chance that a new tree will grow in its place.”

As the two siblings handed her the flower and acorn, Twilight was left very touched inside as she remembered the very wisdom their father passed onto her when they were out walking through the fire ravaged parts of the Pride Lands. “Thank you both.” She moved to plant the acorn in the very heart of the burnt remains of the library before embracing the two siblings together.

“As for this little plant, I think this deserves a new home.” Twilight spread out her wings ready to take flight. Kion however acted quickly before flying off to intercept her. Unfortunately when he did he ended up accidentally crashing into her when she was just about to take off.

"Ow! What are you doing?"

“Sorry I…didn’t mean to bump into like that. I just had another thought occur.”

“And that is?”

“That is, why don’t we get something for Spike to make him feel more comfortable at the castle?"

“Okay?” Twilight arched an eyebrow as she eyed him expecting more details as Spike nervously stammered for something that’ll stall them long enough to keep them away till sunset.

"It's a... well, I want a... it's... I kind of need a... a bed!"

"I thought you said you sleep like a baby in the castle."

Spike scoffed in response. "Everypony knows babies are terrible sleepers. Let's go!"

As Spike ran off ahead, the others followed after him with Twilight shooting Kion a suspicious glance in his direction to make it perfectly clear she knows that they are hiding something from her.

With nothing he can say in his defense, Kion just nervously smiled and chuckled a little before emitting a small gulp in the face of her stern look before looking away knowing that not even his big sister Kiara can do or say anything in his defense this time.

Back inside the castle, the Lion and Pony Guard had just finally managed to clean up the place, having removed every addition they placed in the castle. And by that, that meant every last item.

"There! Now nothing is cluttering the castle!" Rarity stated as she removed the last item out of the room.

"You're right." Rainbow Dash agreed. "There is literally nothing cluttering this castle."

"What do we do now?" Fluttershy worryingly asked upon seeing they are now back to square one with very little time left.

“I don’t know and I’d hate to be the bearer of bad news...” Ono equally worried replied as he looked on to the nearby window where he spotted Celestia’s sun setting on the horizon. “…but we better think of a quick fix because it is almost sunset."

Rarity gasped upon seeing it. "Oh dear! If we don't figure this out soon, it's going to look like we didn't lift a hoof or paw to help her!"

Rainbow Dash groaned in frustration with zero work in progress. "Why is this so hard?! We're Twilight's best friends! This should be easy for us!"

"She said it herself – if anybody and anypony should be able to make her feel comfortable in her new home, it's us.” Applejack said confidently before removing her head in worry. “If we can't do it...”

"Then Twilight will be stuck living in a castle that makes her feel... sad!" Fluttershy finished with the last word she said echoing through the halls.

"Wow, Fluttershy! I didn't know you could be loud enough to echo!" Pinkie said impressed.

“I know!” Bunga agreed looking on happily in her direction.

“Pinkie, Bunga…” Kyoga sternly looked upon them while shaking her head against what they are thinking of doing now. “…now’s not the time.”

Fuli moved to speak up to keep everyone from despairing. “Okay, enough! Now let’s try to figure out of what to do.”

“How?!” Bunga exclaimed frantically. “How are we going to figure it out in time?! If Twilight comes home now, she'll be like "What did you guys do?" And we'll have to be like "Nothing!" And then she'll be like "I was counting on you! Some friends you are!" And we'll be like…Nooooooooooooo!"

“Bunga!” Fuli sharply snapped. “That’s not going to happen!”

“But it could!” Bunga firmly protested. “Whether it’s you or anyone else, or heck even Kion could say it if he was pushed far enough in that direction!”

“It won’t!” Fuli repeated assertively. “We just need to figure out what we did wrong so we can make it right.”

"Well, I didn't do anything wrong!" Rarity insisted, with a hoof pressed on her chest. "I did exactly what I would do if this were my home!"

"But it's not your home." Rainbow pointed out. "It's Twilight's home!"

"Where she keeps all her Rainbow Dash trophies?" Rarity snappily retorted.

"Touché." Rainbow calmly replied knowing she’s got her there.

“Oh, dung beetles.” Bunga realized. “I’m guilty of that too!” He presented the cake filled with dung beetles and grubs. “I should have known that I was only making a bugged cake for me.” He gulped it down much to the others disgust.

“I’d hate to admit it, but Bunga’s right.” Ono admitted much to the other’s surprise. “I mean think about…” Before he continued he quickly said to Bunga. “…and don’t let this go to your head!” He nodded in response. “…it seems to me that we were all thinking about ourselves here, mainly trying to make ourselves feel more at home here more than Twilight.”

"Like we were looking at things and going about it the wrong way.” Beshte added seeing what he is putting down here.

“Exactly!”

“Oh my.” Fluttershy hung head in shame upon hearing this realization.

“It’s okay.” Beshte quickly assured his ashamed friend. “It was just an honest mistake. Now we just need to figure out what Twilight loved about her previous home so we can her feel more at home here.”

“I agree.” Applejack supported that statement. “Come on, y'all. We just need to think about Twilight. What was it she'd loved about livin' in the Golden Oak Library?"

"Oh, everything!" Fluttershy smiled as she reminisced back to when the library was still standing. "The books, the smell of books, the joy she felt from organizing books."

“Oh, I was there for that!” Ono stated with a raised wing.

Rainbow Dash then laughed as she recalled another memory. "Remember that time I nearly crashed into all those books attempting my sonic rainboom after you guys just cleaned up? That was good times."

Ono’s smile turned into a frown. “Yes, I remember that too. To think of the time and energy we would have spent if Fuli wasn’t there to stop you in time.”

“Good thing too.” Fuli muttered in agreement with the irritated egret.

Applejack also frowned and rolled her eyes in response to the speedy Pegasus’s memory. "Yeah, for you, maybe."

"Oh, and Applejack, remember when we were stuck having a sleepover there?" Rarity recalled with a chuckle, "That turned out to be so much fun!"

“It was.” Fuli acknowledged. “In fact definitely fun for you two the most since you become enemies to friends to lovebirds through the time we have formed the Guard together.”

“We’re not lovebirds!” Both Applejack and Rarity exclaimed in flustered unison.

“Uh-huh!” Fuli smirked as the two both blushed madly with burning red cheeks upon seeing all of their friends witnessed this together.

“Oh, my.” Rarity uttered extremely embarrassed.

"Remember the time it got blown up to smithereens?!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly while spreading her hooves out and wide to emphasize on big the explosion was. She lowered down upon noticing everyone's solemn expression with Fuli, Kyoga, and Ono all looking on at her to let her know that’s not funny. "Wait, no. That was the worst." She then said after realizing her mistake.

"We had a lot of good memories there, though." Applejack fondly said of the place. "That's what made the Golden Oak Library home."

"Yeah…" Everybody agreed sadly.

At that moment Applejack gasped with excitement when she got an idea.

"That's it!"

Meanwhile at the mattress store, Twilight was now getting annoyed right now. And the reason for that is because Spike had spent hours trying to find the perfect and ideal bed, but no matter what they looked at, he would always seem to find something to complain about. It was pretty clear to her that he is purposely delaying her from leaving with his ongoing indecisiveness.

"How's that one? Too soft? Too hard? Too lumpy?"

"Um…" as Spike laid on the bed, he looked out the window, finding it was already sundown. "Just right! I'll take it!"

Twilight was greatly relieved and so was Kiara along with Kion with the latter especially feeling it seeing that he no longer has to keep playing this game anymore."Oh, thank goodness. I thought you'd never find one you liked! Let's find a salespony and get out of here."

"Sounds good to meee—" Spike cringed when he and Kion spotted the others through the window, walking in the opposite direction, carrying shovels. Ono and Rainbow both saw the two gesturing them that they need a little more time.

Just then a small crash is heard from the opposite side of the store. “My leg!”

Most of the staff all directed their attention to the poor injured pony’s attention leaving no room for anyone to handle the front register. Twilight groaned severely annoyed while Kiara was able to catch a glimpse of her brother who had a single wing spread out. The wing that had created a strong and small gust of wind that caused that little accident while nobody was looking.

She shook her head in disappointment with that rash decision even while knowing it was mean t to buy their friends time to make the final readjustments they need to make Twilight feel more at home, especially with Twilight’s patience running completely thin at this point. Kion while having his eyes directed away from the group briefly acknowledged while internally hating himself for committing that rash decision.

Elsewhere, the Lion and Pony Guard minus their leaders all made their way towards the destroyed Golden Oak Library. The sight itself was equally heartbreaking upon knowing of how special the place was to their alicorn friend. It was like seeing a place of great importance is now a faded memory.

Applejack sighed sadly upon seeing its current and final state. "Maybe my plan won't work after all."

Just when it seemed like they reached a dead end, Rarity smiled after getting an idea herself. "Of course it will, darling. I can see it! You, Fluttershy, Fuli, Bunga, and Beshte stay here. Rainbow Dash, Kyoga and Pinkie Pie, you come with me. We're going shopping! We'll meet back at the castle."

The four headed out while the others along with Fluttershy’s animal friends, worked together to dig. Bunga, Fuli, and Beshte worked together using her front legs to dig into the dirt alongside the critters all while once more singing to a tune.

Beshte first sang.

“It's not the things that you gather around.”

Next Fuli sang.

“It's not how much you own.”

Rarity, Pinkie, Rainbow and Kyoga walked out of a nearby store with an assortment of bags to take back to the castle.

Then Kyoga sang next.

“The things that hold the meaning in your life

Are the memories you've own.”

Back inside the castle, the team worked together once more hoping this time that they have created the formula to bringing a smile to Twilight’s face when she returns. Rarity sewed together the diamonds, Applejack and Bunga polished the large root, Fuli and Rarity supervised while the others pulled on the ropes, placing their object into the center of the room perfectly.

Then everyone sang all together.

“So we make, so we make, so we make

This castle a home

So we make, so we make

This castle a home

So we make, so we make

This castle a home!”

After the song had ended their work was finally done. Now all that was left is to see if Twilight will like it as well when she returns.

The doors opened as Twilight, Kion, Kiara, and Spike all entered the castle. "Hello? We're home!"

"Welcome home!" Twilight was greeted by her friends, who all appeared extremely happy, bright and excited.

Bunga bowed and wrapped his arm around the alicorn’s before moving her down the hallway. "Right this way, your highness."

As they walked, Twilight began to feel disappointed. Nothing had changed since she left. She is hoping that whatever distractions and stalling her closest friends have done was worth keeping away from the castle this long, because nothing is really sparking her inner joy.

"Oh, I, uh... love what you've done with the place." She said, with a forced positive tone. "You did such a good job of... preserving the integrity of the original design."

"Aw, come on!" Spike exclaimed in annoyance. "It looks exactly the same! Do you know how hard it was for me and Kion to keep her from coming back here?! I never want to see another dust ruffle as long as I live!"

“Very hard, I’ll bet.” Twilight replied while giving the boys the look to make it perfectly clear if she hasn’t already done so that “Yes.” She knows.

Rarity laughed nervously seeing the cat is out of the bag now. "It took a teensy bit longer than we thought."

“And by that we mean a lot longer than we expected.” Bunga added with an equally nervous smile.

“Meaning in trying to help you feel more at home here, we did the exact opposite instead.” Fuli then further explained as she approached her friend. “But along the way we need come to learn that what really makes a place feel like home isn't what it looks like."

Applejack took off her hat and placed it over her heart as she spoke next. "And by that, it’s really the memories you make when you're there."

Rarity smiled as she spoke next. "So we've made something that celebrates the memories we've made with you since you moved to Ponyville."

"And when you first came to the Pride Lands." Kion added as he moved towards the front doors leading to the throne room. After the others nodded at them to let him know that they are ready before opening the doors.

Upon first sighting, Twilight’s jaw dropped in awe when she looked up in awe at the dazzling new addition to her throne room. A chandelier made from the tree-trunk from the roots of the Golden Oaks Library, decorated with various gems on strings similar to each and every member of the Guard.

Fluttershy flew near the ornaments to explain their significance as Rainbow flew up beside her. "The ornaments on the chandelier are reminders of all the fun we've had together."

Pinkie moved to show Twilight one of the past memories through one yellow gem. “That one shows your party at the Golden Oak Library welcoming you to Ponyville!" Pinkie explained as said memory appears inside.

Fluttershy displayed a blue gem. "The time we shared donuts after the Grand Galloping Gala!"

Ono moved to show another memory through the orange gem. “Along with the time we went on our first patrol together.”

"We were hoping that being able to look at your beautiful old memories would inspire you to make new ones." Rarity told Twilight hopeful for it’ll help her big time going forward, all the while Twilight still has her eyes locked on the amazing addition before her eyes.

"And the best part of it is, it's made from the roots of the Golden Oak Library," Applejack added as the alicorn moved to get a close look at it. "So you'll never forget where you came from."

“That is of course if you’re okay with it and like it, of course.” Beshte said gently hopeful that she truly likes it.

Everyone watched on as they await for the princess's answer. Intially she was completely silent for a good ten seconds, with her eyes still locked on the chandelier. Seeing this had the others feared this wouldn't be enough...at least until Twilight turned around to face them with happy tears in her eyes and a heartfelt smile on her face.

"It's exactly what the castle needed." Everyone all smiled upon hearing her words as Twilight rushed on over to hug them all. “And I am ready to make my own memories.” To prove her point she moved to place acorn inside a pot of dirt before placing it right in the heart of the throne room in the very center.

"Then let's start right now with a new memory cake!" Pinkie Pie zipped away and back to retrieve a tall multi-colored cake on her back, "Seven layer what's-that-flavor mystery surprise! These might be chocolate chips or they might be super-spicy black beans!"

"Let's go to the dining room." Twilight offered as she led them towards said room. "It's a little sparse, but at least there's a table and chairs." Her eyed suddenly widened the minute she opened the door and looked at what was inside. "Whoa! What happened in here?"

Kion was also surprised, "Yeah, I don’t remember this being part of the makeover plan." The entire hall itself was decorated with bright gems, a glass sculpture, flowers around the pillars along with elegant table cloth. “Rarity?” He turned to the only pony capable of transforming this room so eloquently in her taste.

"I couldn't help myself!" Rarity confessed. "It was just begging for the personal touch!"

"Truth be told...” Applejack began before moving to confess. “…I couldn't either! Your kitchen might have some rustic farm decor, Twilight."

"And there may or may not be some Daring Do posters up in your library." Rainbow Dash added.

Ono shifted his eyes around nervously. “Along with the entire written history of the Pride Lands Past."

Fluttershy further confessed in a whisper, "And some stuffed animals in your bedroom."

"And a little glass tank filled with bugs in there too." Bunga added with his claws behind his back.

"And a speedy emergency slide in case you need to escape the castle if there’s a fire.” Fuli added with her eyes looking backwards as she sheepishly confessed too.

“With strong support rocks and beams that I helped put into place when helping Fuli build it.” Beshte added being the only one willing to look at Twilight in the eyes when confessing.

Just then the entire group flinched when another confetti cannon exploded. "What was that?!" Kion asked in surprise.

Ono sighed. "Another one of Pinkie Pie's confetti cannons."

"What? It's not my fault I hid them so well!"

The entire group laughed as they all moved to make themselves home with a little dinner party in the recently decorated castle dining room filled with new memories to make going forward. And Twilight can thank her most loyal and closet friends for making it all happen by sticking with her through and through.

Author's Note

As you have probably read by now, for the first Breather Episode since Testing 1, 2, 3, this episode has well of course the alicorn princess trying to adjust to her new home which is evidently an emotional work in progress. Thankfully her friends were all there to help her even though it took some squabbling and diversions in order to keep their friend away up until sunset.

Anyways, there really isn't much to explain other than Kiara gets to spend more quality time with Twilight, along with Fuli and Kyoga playing Only Sane Girls amongst the argument that ensued in the mess that followed in their first disastrous attempt before they were able to resolve the matter, and only then some of their ideas were incorporated into the castle.

Moving along from the Twilight-centric episodes, next up is that time for Rainbow Dash's pet Tank as she tackles a tough lesson when winter is right around the corner, so keep your eyes peeled (as in look out for it) next week, so stay tuned and Happy Valentine's Day...

Episode 5: Tanks for the Memories

Episode 5:

Tanks for the Memories

In Equestria, cooler weather has started to kick into gear during the middle of this year’s warm fall season. And a good thing too, since the Pride Landers were on the verge of cracking under the stress from the ongoing heat that is still going strong with the dry season still a ways to go even when sent away to the magical and cooler climates in the pony world.

Thanks to the magic from the Equestrian world the breeze and the cooler temps flowing into the other world via the portals allowed things to ease down enough that Pride Landers can live comfortably as they patiently await the wet season that still a ways away. And they can spend the following days basking in the cooler temperatures thanks to an early snowstorm blowing through Ponyville courtesy of the Peagsus ponies from Cloudsdale.

At that moment, Rainbow Dash was flying at top speed with her pet tortoise, Tank. He wore a helicopter propeller on his shell so he could keep up with her, and wore flight goggles over his eyes. He spun around when Rainbow approached him. She smiled as she held her pet close and pointed towards the white snow clouds forming around Cloudsdale close approaching their hometown.

"Look at that, Tank! Cloudsdale's here! That means Ponyville is next up for winter!"

She released Tank once she noticed a group of ponies galloping their way across the forest, causing the autumn leaves to fall. Like always it was that time of the year, the annual running of the leaves.

Rainbow flew over them and shouted over to them from above. "You're doing awesome, everypony! Keep it up! We need those leaves off those trees!" But then a thought occurred when she noticed someone in particular wasn’t there. “Wait…where’s…”

Suddenly a big whoosh blew right past her and Tank and then a second later over passes by the entire competition and knocked all of the leaves off of the trees.

“Huwezi!”

That answered her question to what the defending champion is doing right now.

“Great job Fuli!”

“Thanks!”

Rainbow then flew up and landed on a nearby cloud, where Tank awaited for her. What she didn’t notice was that Tank was getting sleepy.

"Once we get autumn cleared away, it'll be hello, winter! Man, it came a lot quicker this time, hu? Guess that's what happens when you're now connected to a world with a different season changing system. I mean, it's like I've got this new instinct telling me when winter is suppose to come. I've never had that before. Normally I just get word from the other ponies. Not that I'm complaining, I'm totally looking forward to it!"

Then, Tank let out a yawn, to which Rainbow did notice and wasn’t pleased to hear and see it. "Was that a yawn I just saw?" she asked suspiciously, only to have Tank yawn again. "How can you be tired when the most exciting time of the year is right around the corner? And don't forget the best part – our first winter together!"

He tried to happy for Rainbow’s excitement of the upcoming winter, but just can’t quite find it in himself to share the same energy as her. He was too exhausted to be able to keep close on Rainbow’s tail today.

"Come on, wake up!" She tried hard in showing Tank the group of Pegasi who were pulling fluffs of clouds. "Once those ponies bring in the big, fat clouds full of snowflakes, we'll have a ton of snow for our extreme sledding!" She moved to direct Tank’s attention to the nearby lake. "And over there, we can play horse hockey, with no shoulder or arm pads!"

Tank smiled, but it wasn’t enough to stop himself from being too tired. This really worried Rainbow Dash.

At that moment Ono came flying by.

"Hey, Rainbow Dash!"

"Hey, Ono."

“Just got done scoping Ponyville and boy, there sure is quite some weather coming our way.”

“Sure is.”

“I mean an early winter snowstorm is just like really hard to believe. I mean that shouldn’t be possible for cool wet season weather in the Pride Lands at this time of the year.”

“I mean hey…” Rainbow shrugged. “…at least the Pride Landers living there now have a little breather to look forward to. Otherwise who knows how many more tempers could have flared without it.”

“Quite a few…” Twilight spoke up to them as she flew towards them. “…and a good thing we’re having this early winter storm. Everything here's looking great, don't you think?"

"Almost everything.” Rainbow admitted while directing her and Ono’s attention towards her pet tortoise. “Does Tank look alright to you?"

Twilight rubbed her chin as she examined the hovering, sleeping tortoise with Ono squinting to get a better feel for what Tank needs. "Well, he does seem to be moving slowly."

"I know, right?"

"And he looks kind of sleepy…" Ono pointed out.

"Totally!"

"…just like he always does." Twilight shrugged, feeling that there really was nothing unusual with Rainbow's pet leaving Rainbow to feel the same way.

"Yeah, ha ha, I'm sure you're right."

Seeing that Rainbow was still feeling a little unsure she turned to the white egret still studiously looking at Tank. “Ono, why don’t you stick around and make sure there is nothing out of the ordinary with Tank. I’ll fill you in when I’m done scouting Ponyville.”

“Will do, Twilight!” Ono turned and saluted to her request before she moved to fly away on towards to Cloudsdale.

As soon as Twilight left Ono turned back to the still yawning tortoise and could tell from a close look that something isn’t quite right here.

“What do you think, Ono?!” Rainbow asked sounding a little worried.

“I think I know what Tank needs.” He answered before flying ahead. “Come with me.”

He led Rainbow and Tank on over to Fluttershy’s cottage where the butter colored Pegasus examined the latter herself.

She used a stethoscope to listen to Tank’s heartbeat while Rainbow anxiously paced around awaiting for a clear answer. "Well?!"

"I suppose his heartbeat could be a teensy-weensy-eensy bit slower than usual…"

"Okay, so give him a vitamin or something!" Rainbow urgently suggested as Tank began to snore.

"I don't think he needs that." Fluttershy calmly replied.

"Maybe we're just staying up too late. Uh, too many Daring Do stories." Rainbow petted Tank's head, making him smile as he woke up briefly before falling back asleep.

"Oh, that's not it either."

"Well, what's wrong with him then?!"

"Nothing! He's perfectly fine." Rainbow released a sigh of relief in response, until Fluttershy added… "He's just going to hibernate."

Rainbow's eyes widened in shock before looking at her Pegasus friend incredulously. "You do realize he's not a bear, right?"

“Of course not.” Ono said before moving to explain it to her while Fluttershy fetched a book from her shelf and opened it. “It’s like this. When the weather grows cold and less food is available, many animals hibernate to conserve energy." Fluttershy flipped through the pages, to show Rainbow pictures of animals, sleeping during the wintertime. "It's like taking a really long nap during winter, and then they wake up in spring. And see? Even tortoises do it! When the time comes, Tank will leave and dig into the ground."

Rainbow looked at the image of the tortoise sleeping in a hole, before turning to Tank when he yawned again. The reality that she was going to have to spend her entire winter without her pet was sinking in and she truthfully wasn’t feeling good about the idea itself.

"But don't worry." Fluttershy moved to assure her that it won’t be the last time she’ll ever see Tank. "He'll reappear when the spring sun warms the ground back up."

Rainbow Dash scoffed and rolled her eyes in response, refusing to believe this. "Come on! Tortoises don't hibernate! Somepony put that picture in there as a joke." She angrily slammed the book, no longer wanting to see the image anymore.

"It's not a joke." Fluttershy gently insisted otherwise.

“Yeah!” Ono agreed. “If it wasn’t I would be able to say otherwise but that’s clearly not the case here.”

"Well, then your book and your knowledge must be wrong!" Rainbow snapped before strapping Tank's propeller back onto his shell as she prepared to leave. Fluttershy understood what Rainbow is going through, yet she is heavily in denial that she refused to accept the truth even when she is aware of it herself. So she once more tried to reason with her. “Rainbow Dash, Tank needs to hibernate. It's healthy for him, just like sleeping is healthy for us. Besides, I know that you know it's the truth."

Rainbow Dash still refused to listen. "Whatever. Okay, thanks. Come on, Tank." She spun the propeller, to make the sleepy Tank fly. But since he was still deep in sleep, Rainbow and fly back in so she can get him to accompany her.

"Where are you going?" Ono asked.

"To get a second opinion from a real reptile expert."

Ono shook his head and grumbled in annoyance at his friend’s stubborn attitude while Fluttershy looks on in worry.

Sometime later, Rainbow went to Spike, hopeful that he can say otherwise that Tank doesn’t need to hibernate the whole winter.

"I told you, Rainbow Dash, I'm a dragon!" Spike crossed his arms in annoyance while Tank slept beside him. The young dragon now had a room all to his own in the large castle.

"Come on! You're practically twins!" Rainbow insisted of him.

Spike briefly looked at Tank before looking back towards Rainbow with no helping words to share. "I'm purple."

"But if you don't have to hibernate, why should Tank?!"

"Because he's a tortoise and I'm a dragon!"

"Same family though, right?"

"No!"

"I'll take that as a yes."

Spike groaned in annoyance and jumped off of the table so he can set the record straight. "Ugh! Look, if Fluttershy says tortoises hibernate and if Ono can confirm it, then I guarantee tortoises hiber—"

Rainbow cut him off mid-sentence not wanting to here the word hibernate again. "Well, what would you know?! You're a dragon!" She left the room while slamming the door behind her leaving Spike stunned with how hard she is taking this.

Once outside the castle, Rainbow continued to assure herself that Tank will stay awake throughout the upcoming winter season no matter how inevitable it will be otherwise.

"Nopony knows you like I do, Tank. All you need is some hard work to get the old blood pumping." She furrowed her brows as Tank repeatedly snored and collided with the door forcing Rainbow to pull his pet friend again through the door. "Come on!"

Sometime later the Lion and Pony Guard sans Rainbow were all gathering while the Pegasus herself is busy helping the other Pegasus ponies move the clouds around all in preparation for winter.

"Well, they're pretty heavy. Chock full of snowflakes! Tank and I are gonna have such a killer time in the snow." Rainbow once more said to her pet. However she saw that Tank was no longer by her side. "Tank? Tank!" She groaned upon seeing that Tank is making a hole in the ground to sleep in.

Pinkie Pie came on by and upon seeing Tank aweing at the sight. "Aww, look at the cute wittle Tankie, all snuggly-wuggly, getting ready to hibern—"

"Don't say that word!" Rainbow angrily shouted as she quickly picked Tank up and held him close.

"Which one?” She asked confused. "Snuggly"? "Wuggly"? "Tankie"? "Hibernate"?"

"That one!" Rainbow covered her friend's mouth, keeping her from saying anything else.

"I was just saying how cute he—" She innocently said before being cut off mid-sentence by the furious pony.

"If you think hiber... – you know, that napping thing – is so cute, why don't you go do it?! Somewhere far away from here?!"

"Rainbow?" Kion spoke to get her attention wondering what’s gotten into her.

The pony turned her head to see the rest of her friends, looking at her with surprised and very concerned expressions. Fluttershy and Rarity were helping the animals prepare for their winter nap, while the others helped in raking the fallen leafs.

"What are you looking at?! Pinkie Pie and I are just having a conversation!"

Kion wasn’t convinced. “Are you sure? Because what I heard was you screaming at Pinkie over the well-being of Tank.”

“He is fine! I am fine!” Rainbow shouted in response right in the lion’s face. “Do you got a problem with it!”

“I do, so back off!” Twilight stated literally getting in between them in Kion’s defense. “He did nothing wrong and neither did Pinkie!” She then calmed down so can try to gently emphasize with her pet dilemma. “Look, Rainbow Dash, we all know how upset you are about Tank hiber—"

"Shhhh!” Pinkie shook her head against it while clinging onto her for protection. “Don't say that word! That's what started this all!"

Twilight rolled her eyes before continuing going along with Pinkie’s word of advice. "We all know how upset you are about Tank. But you shouldn't take your anger out on your friends."

Rainbow’s anger increased to the point she brazenly got right up in her face with a face that could terrify anypony. "Who said anything about anger?! I didn't say anything about anger! I'm not upset! And I am not angry! Do I look angry?!"

“Yes you do!” Twilight calmly asserted while returning a glare of her own to force Rainbow to back off.

“Come on Rainbow Dash, I get this hard for you to accept, but it’s nature. You’ll see Tanka again when spring comes around.” Beshte tried to assure to her.

“But what if I never do? What happens then huh?” Rainbow retorted before turning to fly away. “Come on, Tank! Let's get out of here!" She flew away from the others whole leaving them with mixed feelings, from conflicted, worried, or terrified.

“Okay…” Bunga said still stunned with shock upon seeing Rainbow’s outburst.

“…Should one of us go after her and try to reason with her?” Kion asked turning to Twilight.

“Not right now.” Twilight shook her head much to his surprise. “Not while she’s still processing the early stages of grief.”

“When do you think she’ll be ready to listen?”

“I’ll let you know when she is ready.” Twilight advised before moving to fly after her. “And judging from the way she is acting it’s going to be a while until she’s finally ready to accept what is going to happen next.”

“In the meantime what is next for her before then?” Kion curiously asked out of concern of where this is headed.

"Bargaining...meaning things are going get to hot." She sarcastically added before flying away. “This should be fun.”

Just after Twilight flew away, Kion turned to Ono who sighed knowing what he is going to say and ask of him. “Will do, Kion.” He then proceeded to fly after the alicorn while calling out to her. “Twilight! Wait for me!”

Back at her home, Rainbow is trying her hardest to get Tank to stay awake. "I need you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, not sleepy-eyed and scaly-tailed! Which... is exactly what you are. But get up anyway!” Tank yawned once more as he dropped his legs to the ground. "You can't hiber…” She stopped herself mid-sentence. “… you know. What about all the primo things we're gonna do together this winter? Building snow ponies, starting snowball fights, sipping hot cider by the fire." Tank snored in response. "Don't you wanna do those things with me?!"

Rainbow’s desperate voice was enough to wake Tank up. He smiled at his owner and nuzzled her leg before resuming his sleep. It was pretty clear the truth is right in front of her and that this was natural. But she still refuses to accept it and was now desperate wanting to stop the inevitable.

"Think, Rainbow Dash, think! Tank's only hibernating because it's cold, right? Well, I'd rather have him awake in the heat than asleep in the cold... and the weather only changes here, not in the Pride Lands, so…" she gasped as an idea came to her mind. An awful idea. The devious pony rubbed her hooves together, smiling evilly when she got a wonderful, awful, idea in her head. "I just have to stop winter!"

Unbeknownst to her, her private scene was secretly witnessed by two of her flying friends from just outside her front window.

“Hapana…” Ono quietly uttered before being whisked away from the window by Twilight when Rainbow set out to try to carry out the impossible.

At the same time, Starlight who was observing the scene from the back windows smirked deviously before teleporting away so she can personally report this to Scar in the Outlands Volcano.

While Scar himself was currently working out and working in regaining his magical strength outside of Equestria and the Pride Lands, he splits his energy whenever he needs to get in contact with his followers there. By meditating and focusing his magic, he is able to concentrate his magic left in the lava pit inside the volcano so he can appear as a fiery spirit.

That being said he was currently overseeing Zira, Chrysalis along with their followers training in action while working his claws and magic on a multiple set of punching bags when he got Starlight’s call.

“Scar!”

Knowing that she has valuable information that could serve as an opportunity for their cause he moved to meditate so he can have his fiery spirit meet with Starlight face to face.

“Yes, Starlight?”

“I got something that might be of interest.”

“And that is?” Scar hoped that it was something worth hearing.

“Rainbow Dash, the Pony Guard’s Fastest is trying to stop winter from happening.”

That indeed got the lion / alicorn’s interest as he smirked evilly in response. “This is indeed worth reporting to me, Starlight. There is nothing like a pony trying to do the impossible to create more chaos in their wake. Something that maybe could lead to something unfortunate to happen to Rainbow through her futile efforts to trying to do so.”

“Oh, I hear what you’re putting down.” Starlight sported a wicked smile herself. “And I’ll gladly see to it that it happens the way you want it.”

Before Starlight set out to carry out her task, Scar spoke up with one final and very crucial instruction for her to follow. “And Starlight…” She turned back to face him. “…do not get caught no matter what. I don’t want them catching on to us…yet.”

“Understood.” Starlight nodded before she was allowed to leave and Scar’s spirit disappeared from the volcano.

Back in Ponyville, the Pegasus ponies were hard at work moving clouds in the sky. Sunshower, a female Pegasus with a blue mane and tail and yellow coat flew by, placed the clouds in a specific location in the sky. During which she spotted a male Pegasus with a purple swept up mane and tail and a dark teal coat. "So where do these clouds go?" She asked.

"Over by Clear Skies." He replied.

"But there's clear skies everywhere."

At that moment a pink pony with a purple similarly styled mane, styled similarly to the male pony appeared with a smile. "Yo, Clear Skies right here!"

"But there's clear skies over there, too!" The yellow pony said pointing to the right.

"That's Open Skies!" The pink pony pointed out.

"There's open skies everywhere!" The yellow pony pointed out.

"I'm not everywhere. I'm right here!" The male pony said thinking they meant him.

Sunshower sighed, understanding what’s going on. "Wait. So you're Open Skies, and you're Clear Skies. Then what's all that?"

"Open, clear skies!" The two ponies answered together much to the third pony’s annoyance.

"Hey, where'd our fluffy clouds go?" Open Skies asked, upon seeing that the clouds there were close to them were whisked away while their backs were turned.

"Fluffy Clouds? He's over there!" Clear Skies pointed to a tall and skinny male Pegasus, with a blue coat and an orange bow tie and fittingly fluffy hair style.

Rainbow Dash smiled deviously as she shoved the clouds into a hole inside a hollow tree. "Hah! Stopping winter is gonna be a breeze!" This was just the start. From there she plans to graduates to even bigger and more desperate measures and she won’t stop until she succeeds.

After what happened during Scar’s campaign in his quest to takeover, she was not about to see to it that she loses someone close to her, even with the plan itself being futile due to the fact that winter will still come one way or another.

While she sang as she was blissfully aware that both Twilight and Ono were both closely tailing her to stop her from doing something she’ll regret.

“When life gives you lemons

You can make lemonade

But life gave me Tank here

And my choice has long been made.”

She jumped on the already frozen ponds, breaking them as she skipped. Along the way Twilight used her magic refreeze them after she had left.

“No winter will come to Ponyville

I'll do it on my own

I will keep you by my side

So I will not be alone.”

Using a fake duckbill, Rainbow directed a flock of geese in the opposite direction. North instead of south.

Seeing this had Ono quickly fly after them once Rainbow had left in order to guide them in the proper direction.

“And I'll fly, and I'll fly

Until the end of the sky

So I'll be the one who doesn't

Have to say goodbye

I'll clear the skies forever

So we won't be apart

I'll keep the weather warm for you

And the winter will never start.”

After clearing the clouds, Rainbow Dash created a small beach-like area, placing Tank on a beach chair and placing sunscreen on his shell which did little in waking him up fully. She then looked up and noticed the Pegasus ponies kicking the clouds, to make snowflakes fall. Rainbow smirked as a plan came to her to counter that.

“Weather-makers Pegasi

You make the seasons in the sky

I don't want to sabotage you

But you see, I've got to try.”

Rainbow smiled deviously as she watched the ponies move the snowflakes back onto the clouds, thanks to her tricking them into sending them in that direction.

She them used a giant magnifying glass to warm up Tank, using the rays of the sun. Initially it worked upon getting him to wake up. But it was short lived when the ponies covered the sun with clouds with Tank falling asleep again, much to Rainbow's annoyance.

“No winter can come here now

I'll keep the warmth and the sun somehow

I'm sorry, ponies, this has to be

For I need my friend and he needs me.”

But Rainbow still wasn’t about to give up. She placed the leaves back onto the trees and spun around, creating summer-like areas where the snow was supposed to be, thus confusing many ponies.

She kept making the clouds disappear so the sun can reappear all while holding Tank closely.

“I know it's wrong, but what does it matter?

'Cause nothing's gonna stop me now

I'll change it all, it's only the weather

And nopony's gonna bring me down

I'll keep the sunlight shining free

And I'll bust the clouds apart so you can stay with me

And I'll fly, and I'll fly

Until the end of the sky

So I'll be the one who doesn't

Have to say goodbye

I'll clear the skies forever

So we won't be apart

I'll keep the weather warm for you

And the winter will never start!”

But predictably, nothing made an impact still the winter weather is still coming and Tank is still falling asleep.

"Here comes the next shipment!" Sunshower said to the weather team, "Move those clouds over!"

All around, snow was continuing to fall, more leaves were being raked up, and worse, even the Pride Landers were helping out. Most of the flock decided to pitch in by using their wingpower in assisting the weather team in their efforts to prepare for winter. Down below, Rainbow saw Hadithi guiding ponies in the right direction.

“All right everyone, keeping it coming…” He spotted some birds struggling. “…watch your form! Watch your form!” They were able to quickly correct it. “Good!”

“Hadithi?!”

“Ah, why if it isn’t the Fastest and Bravest Rainbow Dash!”

“What are you doing here?!”

“Just doing my part in proving myself as a true hero to everyone here in Equestria. I’m here helping out in preparing Ponyville for the upcoming winter season.”

“And King Simba approves of this?!”

“Why of course. After all this ongoing dry season is sure having everyone feeling uncomfortable and dehydrated and who am I to say no to a chance in helping bring cooler temperatures so nobody should have to suffer over there.”

“No one.” She admitted glumly which clued the bird of what’s truly bugging her.

“Ah, cheer up old friend. I get that it is cold and that they are friends you don’t want to say goodbye to for the following months but it’s natural for that to happen. Before you know it three months goes by like a breeze.” Just then a literal breeze came blowing right at him. “Aah.” He winds up flying into a nearby pile of snow. Briefly when his beak and eyes appeared, he looked like a snowman there. “No, no, no, no, no…” He turned back to the ponies and birds spreading the breeze. “…all around everywhere, not all on one bird.”

“Sorry, Frosty.” One the birds spoke on behalf of the flock.

Clear Skies taking notice of this moved to greet him excitedly. "“Frosty.” “Frosty?" As in Frosty the Snowman?! Hey everyone…!”

Before anyone could sing the lyrics, Hadithi quickly spoke up to get them to stop. “No, no, no!” He shook the snow off of his head. “Please just get back to work.”

“Of course.”

During the distraction as every bird refocuses their attention in working with the weather team, Rainbow had took Tank towards another cloud feeling increasingly in despair and distraught that none of her efforts are working.

"Ugh! For every hoof step back, they go three hoof steps forward! And now the whole flock's making things move faster! What are we gonna do?"

To add insult to injury, the clouds the ponies were pulling began to release snowflakes. It is pretty clear now that winter is only a few days away now and that there really is nothing she can do to stop it. Just when it seemed all was lost, Rainbow got another idea when she watched the ponies work and where then looked upon the area where they were coming from.

"Cloudsdale. That's it, Tank! If I can't stop winter in Ponyville, maybe I can stop it at the source!"

With Tank on a leach, Rainbow snuck her way into Cloudsdale towards the weather factory with Twilight and Ono proceeding to continue tailing her. In addition, Starlight also keeping tabs on all three members of the Guard proceeded to tail them too.

Rainbow flew in and out of the clouds to avoid being seen, pulling Tank in and out quickly to avoiding being seen too. Her secretive spies followed the same pattern too just when the whistle blew off signaling for the pony workers to leave since it was now lunch time.

"Lunch hour! Perfect!"

Once everypony had left, Rainbow made her way in. She snuck into the air-vents and entered the locker rooms. She quickly ducked inside the nearby locker when a couple of ponies walked by before emerging with the worker’s uniform on along with one for Tank to wear too. Once the coast was clear, she made her way towards the doors leading to the factory itself.

Seconds later, Twilight and Ono were appearing right on the opposite side of the room.

Before Ono could even speak his thoughts of the extreme methods that Rainbow was about to employ in there, Twilight quietly stated a command for him to listen to. “Go! Warn the Lion and Pony Guard! I’ll take care of Rainbow Dash!”

“Twilight?!” Ono was left very confused and worried of what she was going to do.

“I need you prepare everyone for the upcoming wave of snow that she’ll create should my attempts of talking her down fails.”

“Oh…” Ono realized and felt relieved. “…I see. Affirmative.”

In an instant Ono was teleported away from Cloudsdale and back in Ponyville where he carry out her orders without further question.

Back inside the factory room, Rainbow was now marveling of how big it was and how much damage she could do in here while tying her pet tortoise to a nearby lamp to ensure he’ll stay put. “The winter lab. We're in, Tank! Now we just gotta figure out a way to shut it down.”

“Or find a way out of here while you still can, Rainbow Dash.” Twilight’s voice spoke to her as she closed the doors behind her. Like Rainbow even while irrational, she too is following safety protocol by wearing a coat and hard hat.

“WHAT?! Twilight?!” Rainbow exclaimed in shock upon seeing her. “How the hay did you get in here?!”

“How is not important. What’s really important is stopping you from making the biggest mistake of your life.”

“More like biggest save of my life. If I don’t stop winter then Tank’s going to leave me!” She attempted to fly away only for Twilight to seize her tail with her magic to stop her in her tracks.

“Rainbow, I understand that you’re upset and know that you don’t want to see to it that Tank hibernates for the winter, but I must advise against this.” She calmly yet firmly insisted.

“Like your one to talk miss Midnight Sparkle, the pony of vengeance, maker of widows, following Scar’s paw prints to get what you want.” Rainbow moved to yank her tail out of her grip before flying off…

…But only for a few seconds before being seized by Twilight again in a magic bubble. “Maybe I haven’t made myself perfectly clear when I said that…when I said advise I meant firmly say you are not doing this. Of all of the most reckless and dangerous stunts you have ever done this is the most foolish and dangerous of them all. What if you’re caught?!”

“Oh, please. Everypony and everybody will understand why I did what I had to do if that meant keeping everyone from losing someone they love.”

“You’re giving them too much credit! Not everyone here along with the Pride Landers are the understanding type.”

“Maybe that’s because they have yet to understand why I need to do this. Not just for me, but Tank!”

While they were busy arguing Starlight peeked her head through the door and quickly sent a quiet burst of magic to undo the knot holding Tank to the ground.

“At the expense of everyone around you, trying to ruin winter is really worth it?!” Twilight pressed of the stubborn and brash pony.

“Yes it is! And with winter never to come, then Tank and I will be together forever! Right Tank?” She moved to turn to him but found he wasn’t where she left him. “Tank. Tank. Tank! Where are you?" She managed to spot Tank, sleep flying on over to an open fan due to still being tangled up with a magnifying glass. It got tangled on a lever which lifted up and released yellow sparks of electricity when the open fan activated.

Acting quick, Rainbow rushed on over to save him in the nick of time before he could get sucked, but the magnifying glass got caught and tangled up inside the fan. Rainbow accidentally slammed into a barrel of snowflakes, which then fell on her, covering her with snow and two pieces of coal landed on her eyes.

"Uh, I can't see!"

Twilight moved to remove the coal remove her eyes just when Tank landed on the floor, hitting another door. When the door opened, a powerful gust of wind blasted the snow off of Rainbow Dash and Tank into another room, which was filled with jars, containing lightning inside. One of them began to tumble and moved to hit the floor. Luckily for her, her friend was there to catch it.

“Phew!”

Just then another tap of magic knocked into another jar to which Twilight couldn’t move fast enough to catch it in time.

“Uh-oh.”

“Brace yourselves!”

Twilight managed to create a force field that protected themselves from the lightning explosion that ensued and sent the two ponies and pet turtle flying out of the room unharmed. The lightning then hit a booth, which began to send shock waves all throughout the lab, and created multiple clouds at rapid speed. Clouds and lightning filled the room, with one of the strikes hitting one of the water pipes, causing the water to spill and flood the place.

"Let's get out of here!"

Without another word, the alicorn princess worked her magic in teleporting themselves out of here before any of them could get sucked inside an air shoot, and caught up in the chaotic explosion that was accidentally created.

From outside, the Pegasus ponies could see the factory overloading, as evident by the massive lightning spewing all around, much to their horror. From down below, the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard could see what was happening.

"What in the name of Celestia's goin' on up there?" Applejack asked.

Just then Ono had arrived on the scene to alert them. “Prepare yourselves, everybody! Winter is coming!"

Inside the factory, the worker ponies tried their hardest to keep the factory under control, but the power of the winds was far too strong for them to handle. Nothing they did could get the machines to stop going out of whack. It wasn’t long until a gigantic snowball shot itself from the factory from Cloudsdale and was hurling down onto everyone nearby down below.

“Everybody, look out!" Kion shouted to everyone as he focused his eyes with the storm clouds forming so he can use the Roar on it. When the snowball was just seconds away from landing, he unleashed it’s power on it. The Roar managed to stop the giant snowball in it’s place but not without gently and evenly spreading it’s snow all over Ponyville.

Unfortunately, for Twilight and Rainbow just when they arrived by their friend’s side, Kion’s breath gave thus leaving the still big snowball hurling down and crashing down upon them, creating a gigantic bomb-like explosion that left everything around with a big white blanket of snow all across Ponyville.

Thankfully, nopony was hurt. The impact left no damage, after all it was all just harmless snow that had covered their entire town. Ponies and Pride Landers popped out of the snow, shaking the flakes off of their heads, completely unharmed.

The Lion and Pony Guard all popped their heads up as well, and while they weren't injured, the impact left them feeling pretty dazed, thanks to the snow itself being soft. Both Kion and Twilight popped their heads first, groaning with the others following suit, starting with Bunga and Pinkie Pie.

“Oh, ouch! I hit my head on something.”

“Me too!”

Just then two more heads appeared which happened to be both the cheetah and lioness’s.

“Yeah my head!”

“And mine too!”

Pinkie giggled while Bunga chuckled.

“My bad.”

“Sorry.”

Rainbow emerged from the snow, shaking the snow off of her body before turning her attention to her pet after doing a little digging around. She managed to find him and is thankfully unharmed since he managed to duck his head and legs under his shell.

"You okay, Tank?"

Tank yawned once again, which only served as a painful statement from reality. Winter is here, Tank is going to have to hibernate and there is nothing she can do.

"Rainbow Dash!" Kion and the others rushed over to her just when the blue Pegasus starting feeling ill inside with her vision blurring out from the hard impact of snow she took to the head. "Are you alright?"

“No.” She replied rather devastated and defeated before passing out from her injuries.

Sometime later, thanks to her friends, she was able to recuperate in her home in Cloudsdale. She is now wearing her sleeping robes, where all she could do was snuggle with Tank in her bed. The tortoise was getting sleepier and sleepier by the minute. Winter had arrived in Ponyville and winter was already happening, and there was no stopping it, no matter how hard Rainbow tried, she knew that now. She tried to fight off her natural instincts, but it was to no avail.

The door opened and her friends walked in with the sole exception of Pinkie Pie who literally walked through the wall with Bunga deciding to follow in after her.

"Knock, knock!"

“Enter, enter!”

“Oops!”

“We’re already in!”

“Anyways…” Fuli said before moving to stand beside the depressed pony in bed. “…How are you feeling, Rainbow Dash?"

"Whatever…" She responded still with her back turned.

In an attempt to cheer her up, Fuli continued speaking. “In case you’re worried, they were able to fix whatever damage was done back there.”

“Yeah! They cut you some slack! No harm, no foul!” Bunga cheerfully added. Sadly it didn’t even get much of a reaction from the despondent pony. "Really! Nobody’s got a feather to pick with you.” Still didn’t get an upbeat reaction from the blue pony.

"The poor thing looks so sad!" Rarity commented as she turned to Beshte. “Just what are we going to do?”

“I don’t think there’s anything we can do.” Beshte could only say in response before giving it a try himself. “But I’m sure that you can find it in yourself to cheer up. It’ll be okay. Really.”

Applejack agreed before moving. “Yeah, buck up, Sugarcube. You just ain't yourself these days.”

But even with the strongest support still got the same despondent response in return. “Whatever...”

“Uh, how can I say this tactfully...?” Rarity said before sticking with… “You've lost your sparkle, Rainbow Dash.”

Pinkie chimed in with regretful choice words herself. “I hate to say this, but, well... you've become...!” She then said in a hushed and pained tone. “A party pooper!”

At that point Rainbow finally turned and responded rather angrily. “Didn't you hear me? I said 'whatever'. I don't know if you're here to cheer me up or what, but I'm fine.”

Twilight felt herself sigh inside before turning to Fluttershy, who knew what had to be said and one.

"Rainbow Dash, your winter is going to be...pet-less." Fluttershy said firmly and very bluntly to her friend.

Rainbow moved to sit up and looked at everyone in the room…then she ended up sobbing uncontrollably while holding pet close catching everyone by surprise. She wheezed, wailed, and cried all together, something that none of her friends ever seen before. Fluttershy, Kyoga and Twilight all remained perfectly unfazed as they watched Rainbow let out her bottled up emotions she had spent the entire day buried within.

“Gee Fluttershy, was that necessary?” Beshte asked feeling very surprised of her for doing so like that.

"Yes it was because she'll never get past this until she lets it all out." Fluttershy firmly replied.

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Kyoga agreed haven been there before as they watch their distraught friend sob and cry loudly. Seeing that she needs some gentle consoling Kyoga used her magic to move Applejack on over in her direction.

"Uh… it's okay." She started off trying to be tact with her choice words. "Tank'll come back in a few months."

"Months?!" Rainbow cried even louder as she held Tank closer, "I don't want him to go! I don’t want her to go!" she cried out loudly like a child, sobbing and crying even louder than before.

It was at that moment, Twilight realized there was a deeper meaning by what she meant by that, though Applejack was confused.

“By her as in who?”

“You know who!”

“Who?”

“Me…” Twilight said softly as she walked on over to sit beside Rainbow. “…this isn’t about just Tank. You’re also talking about me too aren’t you? The moment I crossed over to the dark side to the day I ran away and left all of you. That’s where it really hurts, isn’t it?”

Rainbow sobbed even harder thus proving that her deduction was correct, the silent look of regret from the alicorn’s face says it all with how much she hurt her friends from when she turned on them back then.

Ono looked on irritated when he glanced at both Twilight and Fluttershy. “Way to go you two! Now how do we get her to stop?"

"She's got to be about done by now." Fluttershy assured. "Can't be too much left in there." And while Rainbow Dash kept on crying, her sobbing was starting to tone down a little. "Feeling better?" She asked while sitting beside her just when Fuli moved to get off the bed so she can do so.

Rainbow sniffed. "Uh-huh." She stopped briefly before resuming her crying.

Twilight moved to embrace her friend by opening her arms. “Come here.” She offered her friend. Rainbow without hesitation buried her head into her chest while bawling her eyes out while Twilight rested her head on hers and rubbed her back with solemn closed eyes.

Fluttershy began to feel her own tears swelling up and forming her eyes too, due to having been reminded of the heartbreak from having to say goodbye to those who had to hibernate throughout the winter and various critter friends she lost along the way for her friend. "Oh, you poor, poor thing…" She ended up crying loudly much like her childhood friend.

Bunga’s eyes started to tear up too. "Ooh, I can't stand to see Fluttershy cry!" He said before joining in on the embrace.

Rarity began to tear up as well with her lips quivering, "Me neither!"

Pinkie was tearing up too. "It's just heart-wrenching!"

Even Ono couldn’t help teared up, "Aw, dang it! Now you got me doing it too!" He cried out before joining in on the group hug.

Everybody else was sobbing loudly minus Twilight, who was secretly shedding a fed small tears of her own, having already been there before.

Kion and Beshte looked on sadly while Applejack lowered her hat to her chest, and both Fuli and Kyoga looked on at the sight solemnly.

“What about you guys?” Kion asked while looking on sympathetically.

“We’re good, Kion.” Fuli said with no tears forming in her eyes.

"Same here." Kyoga shared feeling the same way.

"Nope." Applejack shook her head also in agreement with the two girls.

Kion moved to speaking to the crying cast. "Look, everybody, I know how hard it is to say goodbye—"

"I'm mostly sad because you're not sad!" Pinkie Pie sadly returned.

"Me?! What about them?"

"Applejack, Kyoga, and Fuli all cry on the inside, Kion!"

The country pony crossed her front right foreleg over her left, while both Fuli and Kyoga all kept straight faces.

“It’s true.”

“No question about that.”

“Same here.”

Rainbow Dash started to calm down now. "It's alright, Fluttershy. It's alright."

Everyone who was crying released Rainbow, giving her space, and smiling once they knew she was getting better while wiping away their tears too.

Applejack, on the other hand, was still a bit concerned. "You think she's done or just getting a third wind?" She asked Fuli.

“Judging from the way she looks, I’d think it’s safe to say she’s just about done.” She replied before turning to her speedy friend. “Are you, Rainbow Dash?”

Twilight was the only one who remained beside her even after breaking apart from the group hug. "I think so. I feel better. Really, I do." She looked towards the friend still by her side. "I'm sorry I didn’t listen to you, or Fluttershy, and Ono."

“It’s okay.” Twilight accepted it before returning it in kind. “If anything I should be the one saying I’m sorry. I should have known."

“No, what happened wasn't your fault. I knew that given what Scar put you through that you would need time to sort out your emotions, it was just I wasn’t so sure of if and when you’d ever come back. And when I came to see that Tank would be leaving, even for a few months, it just all was too much for me and I just overreacted and did what any desperate bad guy would do there.”

Twilight placed a hoof on her back. “Believe me when I tell you from personal experience, that’s understandable and I probably would have done the same thing if I was in your hooves.”

“Really?”

“No. At least not when comes to trying pulling things that are definitely impossible.”

“Well you know what they say…” Rainbow nervously chuckled. “…that there are times that the impossible is possible.”

Twilight nodded accepting that response. “True. True.”

Rainbow then managed to get out of bed. "Thanks, everybody and everypony. I don't know what I'd do without you." She turned to her pet who was now smiling at her. "Or him…" Rainbow and her beloved pet shared one final nose kiss as she finally accepted of what was to come no matter how heartbreaking it is for herself. "Oh, Tank... I'm sure gonna miss you."

With the first day of winter in Ponyville already here, many ponies were already enjoying what the new season has to offer. From snowboarding, ice skating, playing hockey, and having snowball fights, everyone was having a good time having fun together.

As for the Lion and Pony Guard (minus Rainbow Dash), they were all also in on the fun as Fuli, Kyoga, and Bunga all joined Spike in on ice-skating while Kion and Beshte were all having a snowball fight with Applejack and Pinkie Pie, while Ono watches from above.

Applejack tossed a snowball at Pinkie Pie, "Yee-haw!"

Pinkie landed on the ground and started making snow angels. "You think we could mess up winter every year? It's way less work!"

"Uh, I don't think Rainbow Dash could handle it." Twilight shook her head while turning to said pony arriving.

"Riding that entire season from Cloudsdale to Ponyville was pretty awesome." Rainbow Dash admitted while carrying Tank in her saddle bag. "I thought you guys might like to say goodbye to Tank. He's ready to hibernate."

Pinkie Pie gasped in delight. "Ooh, you're using the word! Oh, she's using the word!"

Twilight briefly turned to Ono. “Now she is ready.”

“Ready for what?”

“Ready to accept what is to come.”

“Oh.” Ono blinked upon realizing he just walked right into that. “Right. Coming to terms with the nature of tortoises for the winter season.”

Pinkie Pie smiled at Tank as she took this chance to say her goodbye. "And when Tank finishes hibernating, I'm gonna throw him the biggest welcome home party ever! Or wait. Should it be a 'welcome above ground' party? Or a 'happy wake-up' party? Maybe an 'it's about time!' party!"

"And I'll design him a very special suit just for the occasion, whichever one it ends up being." Rarity added.

“I’m sure he’ll like it.”

“I’m glad you’re feeling better.” Kyoga expressed with a warm smile.

“Me too.”

Rainbow moved to find a nice tree for Tank to hibernate, and once she found the perfect tree she dug a hole for her pet to sleep in. Everybody watched as Tank slowly approached the hole and made himself comfortable inside it.

"So, you really wanna do this hibernating thing, huh?" Rainbow asked. Tank who nodded in yes response. Even though it was tough, Rainbow too knew this was for the best. Everyone’s health comes first. As Tank got ready to sleep, all of his friends wished him well.

First Rarity. "Goodbye, Tank."

Next up Bunga. “See ya in the spring and don’t let the snow bugs bite.” Ono shook is head in response even when it was just a joke.

Then Fluttershy. "Happy winter."

Then Fuli. “Sleep tight, Tank, and be strong.”

Then Applejack. "See you later, little feller."

Then Ono. “Sleep well.”

Then Beshte. “Have a good winter’s sleep.”

Then Pinkie Pie. "Have a good sleep, Tank!"

Then Kyoga. "Look forward to seeing when you wake up, champ."

And then Kion. “Goodbye, Tank.”

And finally Twilight, "We'll miss you!"

The turtle smiled one last time before moving the dirt and hiding underneath it with the snow covered it up. His long winter sleep had just begun.

Twilight and Kion reassured Rainbow Dash as she cried some more that it’s not for the rest of her life. Rainbow by then had finally come to terms with it and she has learned to be happy for her pet no matter how hard it was for her to let him.

Once Tank had gone to sleep, everyone continued having fun in the snow together. But Twilight noticed that Rainbow was not accompanying them.

"Well? Ready for some winter fun?"

"Uh, I'm gonna hang here and read to him a bit. That little guy can never get to sleep without a bedtime story." Rainbow politely declined as she sat beside Tank's hole and took out a book. "I'll be right there."

Twilight smiled proudly as she left with her friends, Kion smiled in agreement. "It won’t be long until spring comes around.”

“It sure won’t.” Twilight nodded before thinking of something that came to mind.

“What is it, Twilight?” Kion asked curiously wondering when she stopped smiling.

“I don’t know, Kion. It’s just something didn’t quite seem like an accident back there.”

“At the factory?”

“Yes.” She thought back and recalled to how Tank wound up causing the explosion back there and remembered sparks of magic responsible for that.

“You sure it wasn’t just one of the lightning jars getting loose on its own?”

“I’m sure.” She remembered said jar that had a blue lightning bolt matched one to an aura of magic she had seen once before. “We should probably keep an extra eye while on patrol.”

“Good idea, Twilight.” Kion agreed without hesitation taking her word for it, having the same gut feeling that his alicorn friend is having. “Rainbow and Ono would be more than happy to especially since Starlight is lurking around.”

“And is out for our blood.” Twilight added while trying to understand her motives from stripping cutie marks and talents off of others to be willing to commit murder.

Surely, there has to be more to it because if Starlight wanted her dead then she would have already done it by now and there would be no way she just suddenly decided to sink to malicious new lows.

But for her it is to be discovered in time before she and the others moved to join their friends playing in the snow along with making a snowman.

Unbeknownst to her the answer to that question is true given with the unicorn herself is currently meeting with Scar in the fiery flesh himself.

“Twilight just managed to escape along with Rainbow Dash. My apologies Scar.” Starlight said with a humble and somewhat fearful bow with Ushari and the skinks standing by her side awaiting their master’s response.

Scar however was willing to let it slide given she was told not to personally engage back there. “Don’t worry Starlight, there will be more chances later on, but for now we can our eyes open and prey upon the next opportunity that comes to us. Keep reporting alongside the skinks and there is bound to be another chance to pounce on our enemies soon enough.” Starlight respectfully bowed before taking her leave with Ushari and the skinks sticking behind so they can speak with Scar themselves.

“So Scar, what may I ask what’s coming next?” Ushari curiously asked.

“Something that’ll ruin Princess Twilight’s life both here in Equestria and the Pride Lands. Something unfortunate. Something big. Something that is…plainly unforgivable.”

Ushari still remained dubious about the unicorn himself. “And you really think she’ll go through with it? I mean it’s not like her to be a willing accomplice for murder.”

“Yeah.” Njano spoke up in agreement. “I mean don’t get me wrong but, we’re talking about scorched earth here, literally. We’d be hurting her really bad. And by the end of it nobody would ever see her nor want to associate with ever again.”

“And not to mention that one simple order is the only thing standing between her and being on her deathbed.” Shupavu added. “Think maybe it’s better that one of us goes over and do it ourselves?”

“I’m sure.…” Scar assertively stated his stance on the matter. “…because if we were to do it now, then everyone would rallying against us after assuming one of their beloved heroes death is our doing. Thus setting us up for war that we are unprepared for.”

“Right, of course.” Ushari now understood the pragmatic reasons behind it. “Without our close followers, you would be powerless to take action.”

“Correct, Ushari.” Scar nodded once more. “And by hitting her where it really hurts, she won’t be able to want to rule Equestria or be allowed to show face around here ever again without drawing everyone’s attention towards us.”

“So you want to destroy Twilight’s reputation before we decide to go after her?” Shupavu asked after figuring where he is heading with this.

“Along with helping keep an eye on the situation at all times?” Njano added.

“Yes. And since I already planted the seeds in Kion’s mind, this is only the beginning.”

“Including our murderous ally?” Ushari asked referring to Starlight.

Scar remained certain in his faith towards her. “Of course, Ushari. Of course. With all things considered, I’m pretty sure that I can convince Starlight into helping us. And knowing her I pretty sure she’ll want to ensure that one of their valuable allies is a disgraced figure to be obscured, permanently!”

As Scar smirked ready to continue putting this plan in action the others also smirked ready to follow him every step of the way.

Author's Note

With winter right around the corner, it's that time for certain animals that hibernate throughout the season, Tank, Rainbow Dash's pet turtle, included. But unfortunately, she is not ready to accept that let alone the term... (...whispers so only one can hear (hibernate))
... to the point that she is willing to sabotage it in an attempt to keep Tank throughout the whole season.

Of course, it goes as one would expect where the whole futile attempt had Rainbow finally coming to terms and parting with her pet for the next three months. It was hard, heartbreaking, and painful but it was a necessity to allow herself to heal.

On the villains side of the story, we know see that Scar is planning something in his words "plainly unforgivable." to the point he along with Starlight are planning what amounts to scorched earth as they plot to ruin Twilight Sparkle all while aiming to take her out too. As for what they are planning, that's something to come later on in the year. Sometime soon.

Anyways next week the Lion and Pony Guard will step aside this episode while the little adventurers embark on a quest to find Appleoosa's Most Wanted Criminal who seems to be a little misunderstood inside so stay tuned to see how the kids mingle with this guy while the nearby rodeo's going on.

Episode 7: Swept Away

Episode 7:

Swept Away

With the winter season having come early in Ponyville, that meant the dry season is only a little way’s away. Cooler temperatures for the Pride Lands residents to bask in so they can patiently wait until things can really cool down to the point there is more food and water to go around.

Unfortunately though there are certain parts of the Pride Lands south near the border where the cool breeze from the portal couldn’t touch. And one of those areas is where the zebras had the misfortune of coming across the hard way when they somehow got themselves stuck in the ground in a dry river that’s normally filled with water during the wet season.

“Well everyone. I'm afraid we have no other choice. Panic and...” Thurston spoke to everyone before being cut off mid-sentence by the Lion Guard’s Keenest of Sight.

“Stop! You can't run!”

Thurston sighed as he the other zebras struggled and strained in trying to break themselves free. “We can still panic.”

Kion was quick to calmly insist otherwise. “You don't need to panic. We just have to figure out how to get you unstuck.”

“I simply don't understand.” Thurston still felt the need to ask. “There used to be a river here. But now everything is so dry.”

“That's because it's the dry season.” Fuli pointed out while walking up to him.

“Ah the dry season. I see. But where'd all the water go?” He then cluelessly asked yet again much to her annoyance along with Twilight’s.

“Maybe it panicked and ran.” Fuli sarcastically remarked.

“All the way on out of here.” Twilight added equally deadpan sharing the cheetah’s annoyance with him.

Bunga moved to propose an idea. “You know what we could really use? Some rain.”

Thurston was quick to approve the idea. “Oh yes. Capital idea.”

“Well obviously.” Fuli replied while rolling her eyes with her tone still bordering on sarcasm. “Is no one listening to me?”

“Apparently not.” Twilight replied with the same tone.

With time at the essence, Beshte moved to urge the Guard’s Fiercest to act fast. “We need to hurry Kion. This mud's gettin' drier by the second. If it dries up completely, we'll never get all these zebras out!”

Fortunately Kion already has one. “Actually all we need is one dark cloud.”

“You mean like that one?” Ono asked eyeing the one close by.

“What are you thinking Kion?” Fuli curiously asked.

“I'm thinking Bunga's right.” Kion answered much to her and Applejack’s disbelief at that the thought of Bunga being right for once. “We need it to rain.”

“Okay...So where are we gonna get rain from?” Rarity asked.

“The Roar.” He answered which earned him small gasps from both Fuli and Rarity. “It's made it rain before.”

Hearing this sparked both Bunga and Pinkie’s interest.

“Really? Ooh! This I gotta see!”

“Me too! Do it Kion! Do it! Do it! Do it! Do it! Do it! Do it! Do it!”

At that point, Kyoga gently placed her paws on both Pinkie and Bunga before they could get overly excited. “Done?”

“Yes.”

“Yep.”

With his decision approved Kion moved out of the dry river and looked up at the dark cloud above him. “Okay. Everyone prepare to get wet.”

By focusing and concentrated his powerful breath in the cloud’s direction and was able to cause it to rain on everyone around them within the cloud’s radius.

“Wow! That was super-duper fun-exciting!”

“The Roar can make it rain! Un-Bunga-lievable!”

Both Pinkie and Bunga excitably stated upon watching this discovery.

Though Rarity and Fuli however, felt the opposite due to having soaked up fur again from the rain with the former’s curly mane flattening out again.

“Ugh. That's fine all right.”

“Something worth celebrating, that’s for sure.”

They bitterly remarked just when Ono and Fluttershy found themselves nearly dodging lightning when it flashed from above.

“Hapana!”

“Yikes!”

Said rain, allowed the zebras to finally break free from the previously dry dirt keeping them stuck.

“Oh! Huzzah!” Thurston happily expressed.

“Nice job on the rain Kion.” Beshte complimented.

“Now the zebras are no longer stuck there.” Applejack proudly added.

“Thanks Beshte, Applejack!” Kion kindly returned.

Even with their success, Fuli wished the rain would end. “Now if only there was a Roar to make it stop.”

“Before we get completely drenched.” Rarity added while trying her hardest not to cry. “I really wish I brought my raincoat today.”

Both Pinkie and Bunga remained optimistic that it won’t last long.

“Not to worry, like the Cakes always say, all good things must come to an end.”

“Yeah, it'll stop any second.”

Lightning continued to flash thus further scaring Fluttershy into hiding behind her friends for cover. “Eep!”

“Eventually…” Pinkie nervously added even with the increased downpour and in the face of the fully annoyed cheetah and fully devastated unicorn.

“See?” Bunga added with an equally nervous chuclkle.

“Poa! This is great!” Beshte remarked upon feeling the ground. “The ground is really thirsty.

“The ground might be thirsty Beshte. But it's so dry it can't absorb all this water. And there's nowhere for it to go.” Ono noted.

Fuli spotted something that her speak rather alarmed up ahead. “Oh it's going somewhere all right. Look!”

Up ahead, a massive flow of water is appearing and coming right at them.

“With all due respect, I think now is a good to say, LET’S GET THE HAY OUT OF HERE!” Rarity yelled before leaping out of the water with Fluttershy quick to fly after her.

“Hapana!” Oni fearfully whimpered with Kion urgently giving out instructions for his team to follow.

“Lion and Pony Guard! We gotta get these zebra to safety! Fuli and Rainbow! Round up the zebras!

“Beshte and Applejack! See if you can block the water!” Twilight urgently added.

“Can do, Twilight!”

“You got it Kion!”

“This way! Huwezi!”

“Come on, come on! Let’s go!”

“I don't understand. You said it was the dry season.” Thurston once more complained.

“No time in acting like a stubborn mule! Move!” Rainbow urgently pressed of them as the rest of the team moved to help guide the zebras to safety.

Unfortunately, two of the zebras were still stuck with the torrent of water about to wash them away. So both Beshte and Applejack had to double down on their efforts while Twilight and Rarity moved to help them.

“Come on, Rarity!” Twilight barked before working her magic on the stream along with moving to help free the zebras still stiff and stuck to the ground along with Rarity.

Both the Guard’s Strongest could feel their hooves and feet slipping due to the large water coming their way, but neither one of them were just about ready to give up. Not while they are still holding their own and two of the friends struggling to free the remaining two zebras.

“Come on, just a little longer.”

“Twende...Ki... Bo...Ko!”

The two managed to hold out just long enough to allow both Twilight and Rarity to free and get the remaining zebras out of harms away. Unfortunately for the two friends, they wound up getting swept away before the storm wave pulling them away.

“Whoa….!”

“…Nelly!”

Applejack had to climb on to Beshte to safety while guiding his floating away from the sharp rocks they nearly hit before they eventually managed to reach dry land.

“Phew! Now that was quite a ride!”

“Poa. No kidding, that was the craziest water slide ever! Right guys? Guys?” Beshte realized there are not in the Pride Lands anymore upon seeing the steaming Outlands Volcano in the distance. “Wait...we’re in the Outlands.”

“Yeah, we better get back to the Pride Lands and make sure everyone else is okay.” Applejack agreed before they proceeded to go back the way they came from upriver.

Meanwhile back in the Pride Lands, the rain had finally stopped much to Rarity and Fuli’s pleasure and both Twilight and Kion moved over to the zebras to ensure everyone is all safe, present and accounted for.

“Anybody hurt?” Kion asked.

“Nope. We're okay.” One zebra expressed on behalf of the herd.

“Yes.” Thurston added in agreement.

“See?” Ono pointed out of how effective it is to kelp calm in times like these. “You didn't have to panic and run.”

Thurston seemed to consider it. “Hmm. You're right. Zebras remember that for next time. Panicking was enough.” He then added much to Ono and Twilight’s dismay.

“Of course it will be.” Twilight said while shaking her head while the egret wearily sighed in agreement.

“That was un-Bunga-lievable Kion! The Roar made it rain!” Bunga said once more still mildly impressed.

“Yeah.” Kion briefly smiled. “But it was a lot more rain than I was expecting. Good job blocking that wave Beshte, Applejack.” Then he sees that their two strong friends aren’t with them.

“Beshte?”

“Applejack?”

Their leaders turned their heads looking around where they went off to.

“Hey Big B? Where you hiding? Big B? Big B!”

“Yoohoo! A.J. Come on, wherever you are.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie called out to no avail as the team turned back to the now once more dried up river.

“How'd we manage to lose a whole hippo?” Fuli asked sounding rather baffled herself.

“All that water. It must've swept them away!” Twilight deduced before calling out. “Beshte? Applejack?”

“Washed away?” Fluttershy gasped.

Bunga quickly dismissed that’s the case. “Nah... He's Big B and she’s A.J.! You know... Big and Strong.”

“Then again that was an awful lot of water.” Ono pointed out. “And it was moving awfully fast.”

“Hevi Kabisa.” Kion was left ashamed of himself upon seeing and realizing this. “I should have thought of that before I used the Roar.”

“But you saved the zebras.” Bunga pointed out to help cheer his best friend up.

“And if it weren’t for them it would have collected the two poor helpless zebras that almost didn’t make it out of the river.” Fluttershy added in agreement.

“Let's just hope Beshte and Applejack are okay.” Kion hopefully expressed.

“'Course he's okay. He's Big B. And she’s A.J., they gotta be okay!” His confidence is met with sheer silent from his teammates. “Uh they are gonna be okay right?”

“We’ll see…” Twilight said before turning to both Rainbow and Ono. “Rainbow, Ono, take a look and see if you can spot them.”

“Can do!”

“Affirmative!”

They saluted before taking off following the river they both went down.

“Come on Beshte, Applejack. Where are you both?” Ono muttered to himself while trying to spot them. Hopefully, they can find him before anything else can happen because it is only a matter of time before they succumb to their dangerous heat.

Elsewhere, both Guard members are backing they back, but found themselves changing course upon the heat already starting to have it’s effect on them.

“Phew. It's really hot out here!” Applejack expressed while fanning herself with her hat.

“I know.” Beshte could already start feeling drained from the heat. “The sun's gonna burn me if I'm not careful. We better find some shade.”

“Good idea partner. “ Applejack agreed without hesitation. “The riverbed might be the fastest way home...”

“…But at least this way we'll be able to find some shade and see more of the Outlands!” Beshte finished while trying to feel upbeat about their situation by singing a song to pass the time.

Look on the Bright Side

By singing an upbeat tone, the two were able to make some progress and stay cool, heck it was so catchy that Applejack joined in on the singing herself. Unbeknownst, to them the skinks happened to be around scouting the Outlands and saw a perfect opportunity that Scar will want to seize upon when he hears about it before secretly following after them with murderous intentions.

Meanwhile, the Lion and Pony Guard are all racing their way downriver trying to find theirs with zero luck so far. Judging from how they’re not in sight, they must have gotten swept up and taken deep down the river.

“Who knows how far the rushing water took him.” Fuli commented as they ran.

“At least we know what direction he went.” Kion shared.

“Yeah that's good I guess.” Fuli agreed though the yellow Pegasus had a feeling of dread up her spine when they stopped on the Pride Land borders.

“Unless that direction was the Outlands.” She fearfully expressed just when the white egret and blue Pegasus regrouped with them.

“No sign of Beshte and Applejack. And the water's already drying up.” Ono reported. “Hippos don't do so well in the sun without any water or mud to cover their skin.”

“And neither does Applejack .” Rainbow added.

“Then we've gotta find him fast.” Twilight seriously stated before she and Kion led the way on over there. “Come on!”

“Wait for me!” Ono shouted when Rainbow used her super speed to play quick catch up.

Meanwhile, both Beshte and Applejack have found another cool shady space to rest up for a little bit.

“Phew. That's better.”

“You’ve said it.”

Both Applejack and Beshte said upon arriving.

“What are you doing in the Outlands hippo and pony?” Shupavu’s voice spoke to them before she, Njano, and the green skink made themselves known to the traveling duo.

“Huh?”

“Who said that?”

They said before seeing the skinks.

“Oh. Hey there little lizard.” Beshte kindly greeted. “We’re just looking for shade on our way back to the Pride Lands.”

“We could use you for shade!” Njano said.

Beshte chuckled in agreement though her cowgirl friend got a strange vibe from the three little strangers. “Yeah. I bet you could!”

“We can help you both find more shade if you like.” The green skink offered.

“You can?” Beshte eagerly asked.

“Of course we can.” Shupavu assured.

And that was enough to get Beshte to accept their help. “Poa! Like my dad says "You can make friends wherever you go."

Shupavu chuckled while appeared on the top of his head. “How sweet. Now follow me.”

Applejack however didn’t quite seem to trust them, especially when they were sporting devious smiles. But since they were guiding them through shady areas and couldn’t leave Beshte behind decided it was best to stick with him.

Meanwhile both Rainbow and Ono were scanning the skies looking for their friends.

“Come on A.J, Big B, show yourselves.” Rainbow pleaded.

“They got to be around here somewhere.” Ono groaned upon finding no sign of them. “Better tell Kion and Twilight.” Both flyers moved to regroup with the rest of the team. “We looked all over the Outlands and there's no sign of them. I feel terrible.”

“Don't beat yourself up Ono. “ Kion insisted otherwise. “This is my fault not yours.” He once more sighed with regret with what he did. “He's out there all alone.” Then he suddenly gets an idea. “Wait. Beshte's probably the only hippo in the Outlands.

"And Applejack is the only pony in the Outlands." Twilight added getting the same idea too.

"So even if we can't find them, we should find signs of them.” He turned to the two flyers again. “Ono, Rainbow, can you both look for hippo and pony prints? If we find those they should lead to Beshte and Applejack.”

Ono smiled while Rainbow face-hoofed herself upon realizing they are all approaching this all wrong.

“Of course!”

“I wasn't even looking for footprints. You got it Kion!”

“And maybe you and I can track him by scent.” Fuli proposed before she got sniffing right away.

“And me and Rarity can scan them with our magic.” Twilight also proposed before she and Rarity got to work right away by lighting their horns right away.

“Good thinking Fuli, Twilight.” Kion complimented before joining in on the sniffing.

At that moment both Pinkie and Bunga got in on the action with the former wearing her silly gag face.

“You smell him? “ Bunga asked while sniffing around. “I don't smell him.” He inhaled deeply just when a gusty breeze blew by.

“Whoa! What is that smell?” Pinkie gagged much to Fuli’s annoyance.

“That's you Bunga.” Fuli sighed while Rarity gagged too while pinching her nose shut.

“The one and only honey badger that can smell like that.” Rarity remarked rather disgusted.

“Oh yeah.” Bunga realized before sniffing deeply at his own scent. “Pure Bunga.”

Not only are Pinkie and Rarity disgusted, but Twilight, Fuli, and Kion are all following suit.

“Okay, not something I needed to see.” Kyoga commented while Rarity turned to vomit near a small boulder in the distance.

“Bunga why don't you stay downwind of us so we can track Beshte without any...Interference.” Kion politely suggested while visibly disturbed by his friend’s antics.

“Hmm.” Bunga thought before proposing of something else he can do. “Got it. I know! I can shout for them so he knows we're looking for him!” He the shouts loudly to the point his voice echoed across the Outlands. “Beshte! Beshte! Beshte!”

“Oh! Oh!” Pinkie happily bounced up and down. “And I call for Applejack while we’re at it.” She then shouts loudly with her voice echoing across the Outlands too. “Applejack! Applejack! Applejack!”

“Oh yeah. That's much less annoying.” Fuli sarcastically remarked while Rarity felt her ears were going to shoot right off.

“But at least it’s less repulsive.” She said before resuming to use her magic to scan their friends down alongside Twilight. “Not to mention when not using the loudest megaphone in the world.”

“True, true.” Fuli accepted that before resuming her sniffing to track Beshte’s scent.

“Beshte! Beshte!”

“Applejack! Applejack!”

Elsewhere, for once the Outlands Volcano, there aren’t any dark clouds surrounding it outside. Inside, is where Janja and his two loyal companions, Ushari, and Starlight are all inside awaiting for either Shupuavu and Njano to arrive with the latest scouting report of the Outlands. Since Scar has yet to finish up training with his followers outside of the Equestrian borders he needed the skinks to serve as his eyes in ears whenever he doesn’t have the time to do it himself.

During which, Janja pulled both Cheezi and Chungu for a secret word out of the others ear shot. “It don't matter what he says. You two always gotta listen to me.” He said rather disgruntled.

“You got it boss.” Cheezi nodded in response.

“What'd he say?” Chungu cluelessly asked as always.

“He said listen to me.” His friend clarified.

But the large hyena still didn’t get it. “Uh Cheezi? I was listening to you.”

“Not me-me. Him-me.” Cheezi again repeated while gesturing to Janja.

“Who me?” He asked once more much to both Starlight and Ushari’s annoyance.

“So sad.”

“No kidding. Especially when I can hear you three!” She shouted the last three words directed at the trio for giving her a headache which got them to shut up immediately.

It was then that Njano had arrived while standing right behind the cobra. “Psst. Ushari! Starlight” He shouted right in their eras much to their irritation as the latter placed a hoof in her ear to make sure she isn't deaf because of it.

“I'm right here.”

“So am I. Now that you got our attention, I hope you’ve got something worth sharing.”

Njano remained confident this is worth their time. “I sure do because I got a secret you might wanna know.”

“Secret?“ Janja asked rather confused but curious at the same time.

“That hippo and orange earth pony from the Lion and Pony Guard are stuck in the Outlands. Alone.” He reported while getting face to face with the two.

“Really?”

“Is he now?”

The two eagerly asked finding this worth investing into.

“Shupavu's keeping an eye on them right now.”

Janja however was quick to dismiss this to the sky. “Who cares about a hippo and a pony?”

Right on cue, much to the hyena’s sudden fear, the fiery lion himself appeared before them. “I care.” He seriously stated thus getting Janja to backpedal what he just said.

“Oh yeah! Yeah! I care tons!”

“Me too!” Cheezi stated in agreement, fearfully.

Chungu once more felt the need to ask still not understanding why. “Uh... why do we care?”

“Because if the Lion and Pony Guard's strongest is alone in the Outlands it's the perfect opportunity to eliminate them!”

“Yes. It will weaken the Lion and Pony Guard.” Ushari happily deduced.

“Correct Ushari. And then you hyenas will get to eat whatever you like in the Pride Lands.”

That got Cheezi and Chungu’s interest and drooling lips taken up a notch.

“Whatever we want?

“Yum!”

“First we gotta take out Beshte and Applejack.” Their leader reminded of them.

“But they’re the strongest. How are we supposed to do that boss?” Chungu asked without realizing of what he was saying in Scar’s presence.

“Don't call me "boss" in front of the boss.” Janja scolded in a hush.

“Very convincing, Janja.” Starlight remarked sarcastically. “Right in our ear shot.” She then moved to explain it rather annoyed at them. “And in case you fools haven't noticed it's the dry season. Too much sun makes hippos weak and too much sun causes ponies to dehydrate.

“Correct Starlight.” Scar nodded approvingly. “Since Beshte seems to trust you skinks we can use that to our advantage. And as for the honest yet suspicious Applejack, I have a plan.”

From there his followers were all ears for what the lion has to say.

“Listen to him boys he has a plan.” Janja told his companions while smirking deviously.

“Him you? Or Him-him?” Chungu once more asked much to the unicorn’s growing and groaning exasperation.

“Just listen. And. Stop. Talking.” Starlight quickly stated to them to get them while rubbing the temples on her forehead.

“Scar always has a plan!” Ushari stated with emphasis on his reverence towards their master. “Big plans!”

“Correct. Big plans indeed.” He stated with emphasis before sinisterly laying out the details and instructions that go with it. "Now here's what I want you to do.”

Meanwhile the other two skinks have lured Beshte and Applejack to another shady set of rocks.

“Thanks again for finding me shade. The Pride Lands are all the way on the other side of Rocky Plateau. But I don't think I can make it across without getting burned.”

Just then Njano came back from his meeting with Scar to offer some false advice. “I got ya covered! Literally! I know a shortcut. Through the caves under Rocky Plateau.”

“You do?” Beshte asked which further raised Applejack’s suspicions.

“And you're sure that's the right way to go?” Shupavu asked.

“Sure I'm sure.” Njano confidently replied. “It'll keep Beshte outta the sun so he won't burn. Trust me.”

“That'd be Poa. Let's go.”

“The cave's this way. Follow me.”

“Who knew folks were so helpful in the Outlands?” Beshte happily expressed. “Lucky I found you guys. I mean lucky you found me. Whew! Let's go.”

“Yes. Totally lucky.” Shupavu said somewhat sinisterly before leading the way.

“This way.” Njano said while guiding the oblivious hippo into a trap while the very suspicious farm pony is keeping his blonde tail crossed ready to defend themselves.

Unbeknownst to them, Janja and his clan were hiding behind the nearby set of rocks.

“He's falling for it!” Janha laughed upon seeing the hippo’s gullibility. “This plan's gonna work out great.”

Cheezu had said doubts however, “I dunno Janja. Your plans don't usually work out so good.”

“This ain't my plan fur-brain remember? It's Scar's.” Janja irritably returned.

“Oh yeah right.”

“Then maybe it will work.” Chungu hopefully expressed.

Janja felt the need to state it will work. “Exactly! Hey!” He then sighed seeing where this is headed. “Never mind. Come on fur-brains. Let's get over to Rocky Plateau. We got work to do.” He then cackles ready to their body which did not go unheard by Applejack.

Upon hearing them, the orange earth pony frowned with narrowed eyes after being given the confirmation he needed to know that the skinks are indeed luring them into a trap.

Meanwhile in another part of the Outlands, Fuli and Kion are trying their hardest in sniffing out their friends, but seem to having a little trouble with that.

“I thought I had him but...” Fuli started.

“Yeah I'm not having much luck tracking him either.” Kion finished.

“It's hard to smell somebody's scent when it's been washed away by so much water.”

Kion sighed seeing this is quite a difficult task for them. “I hope Ono, Rainbow, Twilight, and Rarity are having better luck.”

In the skies, Rainbow and Ono were keeping their eyes peeled (open) for foot and hoof prints that show them where their two friends have gone off too.

“Come on Applejack…Beshte…where did you go?” Rainbow said to herself while Ono scanned from the skies with his keen sight.

“Where did you go?” He muttered before spotting something familiar. “Those look like...Hippo prints! Of course! Applejack and Beshte went into the cave to get out of the sun! Kion! I know where Applejack and Beshte went!”

“You found him?”

“Not exactly. Just follow me. His tracks lead in here.”

And that’s when Twilight spoke up when she returned with good news herself. “I’m picking up strong magical detection in this direction towards Rocky Plateau. Both Applejack and Beshte have definitely gone this way.”

“Nice work Ono, Twilight.” Kion complimented.

And that’s where Bunga picked something outstanding himself. “Whoa! Look at that!”

“What is it?”

“Something big about those foot and hoof prints?”

Both Fuli and Fluttershy asked.

“Big B...He has really big feet!”

“Oh.” Fluttershy softly spoke disappointed.

“Because he's a hippo Bunga.” Fuli pointed out something that should be obvious to him.

“Oh yeah.”

Twilight however had the strange feeling that something was wrong here when she realized something after saying what she found. “Wait!” She spoke up to get everyone’s attention. “Something’s not right here.”

“Twilight?”

“What’s not right?”

Both Kion and Ono asked.

“Avoiding the sun through shady areas, away from the Pride Lands, to Rocky Plateu…” Her eyes widen in horror before flying off ahead. “…we got to over there right away!”

“Why? What’s going on?” Kion asked still confused.

“Both Applejack and Beshte’s lives are in danger! Come on!” The others followed after her with both Kion and Rainbow quick to keep pace with her.

At the same time, the skinks have just managed to lure both Beshte and Applejack into their trap. So far they are nearing the dead end where Janja and his crew are waiting to do their part.

“So are we getting close to the end of the caves?” Beshte asked.

“Oh we're getting close to the end all right.” Njano falsely assured while unable to help but snicker for what’s to come next.

“You got a plan right?” Shupavu asked knowing that Scar gave him their instructions on their trap for them.

“Oh yeah.” The yellow skink nodded before leading him through a tight opening with the earth pony following suit. “Hurry up.”

“Okay.” It took a tight squeeze but Beshte was able to fit through the opening. “Phew! That was a tight squeeze.” There he realized something was wrong with their guidance. “Uh-oh. Hey little skinks? I think we made a wrong turn somewhere. This is a dead end.”

“You got that right!” Janja’s voice shouted in their direction with an evil cackle.

“Janja!”

“And us!”

“Hello!”

Both Cheezi and Chungu also greeted.

“I knew it!” Applejack furrowed her eyes at the skinks. “You weren’t leading us back to the Pride Lands you were leading us into a trap. Well let’s see how you like when I get my…”

“Now!” Janja commanded of his crew to send a huge boulder in their direction.

They were quick to do so on cue, forcing the two to barely avoid it when it crashed into the opening thus blocking them inside. Unbeknownst to Beshte the skinks have managed to use the distraction to escape through the cracks and small opening in the crater.

“Uh-oh.” Beshte said upon realizing how big their predicament has gotten.

“That's right! You're trapped! And we got lots more rocks up here!” Janja taunted. “But not for long!”

“We’ll see about that!” Applejack said ready to tackle on whatever rock they throw at them, literally.

“You sure you want to do that, tough pony? I wouldn’t want to crush you on purpose?” Janja grinned rather amused at the pony’s bold stance.

“Try me.” Applejack dared thus getting Beshte rather nervous given with how large the boulders are and the one he just sent in their direction nearly crushed them.

“If you insist.” Janja’s buddies moved another rock straight at her.

Applejack had turned around ready to buck it and had managed to crack it with her back hooves alone. She was prepared to use her super strength to defend herself and Beshte…

…but she wasn’t prepared for when Janja and his crew quickly sent another rock at her legs. It was a big one, and had the pony yelping in pain when she heard her leg bones suffer a hard impact with an audible crack.

“Applejack!” Beshte gasped as he moved the rock aside so he can scoop her up and carry her on his back. “Don’t worry, Big B’s got you.” He then turned up in the hyena leader’s direction with an angry glare. “And that wasn’t very nice, Janja!”

Janja laughed at the farm pony now in pain with broken bones. “Guess you should thought to try to avoid that rock instead of facing it head on!”

“But she faced it back on with her legs, Janja.”

“So it was back on, wouldn’t you say?”

His partners felt the need to say.

Janja quickly glared at them to shut up. “Just keep pushing rocks there’s no time for stupid questions.”

“Aye, aye, Janja.”

“On it, boss.”

At least Janja was pleased that they now get the memo to get serious when the situation calls for it. “Thank you.”

“Oh boy!” Beshte was impressed yet still worried for her friend. “I don't think I want to be around when that rock hits!” He then sees what he can do with little time they have. “I just gotta unblock the entrance.” He backs up with the room he has to prepare to crack the rocks blocking them inside. “Twende Kibokoooo!”

At that moment, the sound of his catch phrase was well heard by the rest of his teammates on the ground.

“Beshte!”

"Applejack!"

They moved towards the blocked off opening where they heard his voice.

“Beshte!”

“Applejack!”

Both Bunga and Pinkie both called once more much to both Fuli and Rarity’s complete annoyance.

“Bunga! Pinkie Pie!”

“Not helping!

“Bunga?”

“Pinkie Pie?”

Both Beshte and Applejack called back after having heard them.

“It's not huh?” Bunga returned rather smugly.

“Cause that sure sounded like our friends to me.” Pinkie giggled.

“Beshte, Applejack, glad to hear you're both okay.” Fluttershy happily called out to them.

“Thanks Fluttershy…” Beshte thanked his dear friend before moving to urgently explain to them of their predicament. “But uh...we've kind of got a "hyenas and falling rock" situation here. They're pushing down rocks from an opening to Rocky Plateau. And I'm pretty sure they're trying to hit me!” He then remembered. “Oh, and in case you’re wondering, they managed to break Applejack’s legs already.”

Fluttershy gasped in shock before adopting a really peeved off face. “That. Big. Dumb. MEANIE!” She proceeded to fly up as fast as she could up into the sky so she can confront Janja for what he did.

“Don’t worry darlings, we’ll get you both out of here.” Rarity vowed before she worked her magic in removing the rocks with Pinkie proceeding to help big time by donning her hard hat before drilling a massive hole into the pile of rubble while Kyoga moved to clear the rocks away with her magic and claws. “Or of course, Pinkie will.” She muttered rather annoyed while Pinkie innocently grinned back. “Showoff.”

At the same time, Janja was just preparing to send the last and final rock in the helpless Guard members in their direction with murderous intent. “Don’t worry, fellas. If you just stay still for a moment, this won’t hurt a bit.”

“Wanna bet?!” Twilight angrily asked while sending a magical blast right at his chest thus knocking him aside and hard into the ground.

Rainbow having managed to keep up with her friend followed it up by going for a double knock out with both of her front hooves. She then flipped over and then kicked both Cheezi and Chungu backwards into Janja’s direction.

Unfortunately for them, the rock had just managed to fall into the pit for a head on collision in Applejack and Beshte’s direction much to everyone's jaw dropping horror.

Rarity acting quick was able to use her magic to form a shield to keep the rock from fatally crushing them. But that was it since all of that mental straining was enough to knock herself out while Pinkie also got knocked silly from the impact.

“Pinkie! Rarity!”

Both Applejack and Beshte cried out in horror.

“Hot wings!” Pinkie dizzily said before passing out while the alicorn princess looking down from above could only look aside feeling embarrassed and mortified with herself that happened.

Janja and his pack managed to get themselves up on their paws just when Kion flies up to join the rest of the Guard who managed to make their way up to the top of Rocky Plateau.

“Thought you could hurt one of the Lion and Pony Guard did you?!” Kion sternly asked with narrowed eyes directed at Janja with Fluttershy getting close in their faces by giving them the Stare.

“Oh? Is the hippo and pony down there one of the Lion Guard and Pony Guard? I had no idea.” He said with false innocence and a forced laugh yet unable to keep his composure to the Pegasus's imposing glare. “We were just havin' some fun. So I got nowhere to run eh cub and pony?”

“You got that right!” Twilight stated before charging at him with Rainbow quick to follow after her.

The former managed to pounce and tussle with the hyena leader while Rainbow yanked Cheezi and Chungu and managed to slam the two of them hard into the ground like rag dolls.

While she was making effortless work against Janja she gave this command to both Kion and Fluttershy both wanting in on the fight against him. “Get everyone out of the pit!”

Both Kion and Fluttershy were quick to obey with the latter's adrenaline fueled energy focused on flying down on over to their injured friends to get them to safety. When they both flew down, everyone had managed to come too.

“All right Fluttershy, stay behind me.” He ordered before focusing his attention on the blocked off exit before using the Roar against the rocks. And quite effectively, the Roar cleared an opening for them to escape through.

While Beshte continued to carry Applejack, Kion moved to carry Pinkie Pie while Fluttershy moved to carry Rarity before they both flied out of the hole all while Kyoga clears aside all of the fallen debris and kept her guard to keep anymore rocks from falling in their direction.

Upon seeing that they have all managed to get out of there, Twilight decided it was time to put an end to this fight. But not without allowing the others to get in on the action. “Bunga, Ono, Fuli…” She gestured to the struggling hyenas who just managed to get up again with a smile. “…would you all like to do the honors?”

“Absolutely!” Fuli said with an equally pleased smile. “Huwezi!” She charged right at the hyenas while bowling them all over in one sprint. By doing so she ended charging off a cliff to which Rainbow was quick to fly after and catch her mid-air.

Chungu having just managed to get up again managed to grab Ono’s tail feathers to allow Cheezi to chomp down on him with one more pull.

Luckily for Ono, Bunga was quick to pounce on the latter to allow his egret friend to relentlessly peck at the former until he was forced to retreat.

“Hey! Stop with the pecking!”

“Sure thing.” Ono smiled at the same time Janja managed to get back up upon seeing that everyone else is done taking their best shots at them…

…at least until Kion returned with the rest of the Guard now out of harm’s way causing them to briefly widen their eyes knowing what’s to come next.

With one focused look, Kion once more used his Roar to send the hyenas flying away and screaming.

“I never get tired of that.” Bunga smiled with joy. “No rain this time though. Oh well. Least we got rid of the hyenas and saved Big B, A.J., Pinkie, and Rarity all in one day.”

“Couldn’t have said it any better, Bunga.” Rainbow said equally satisfied before starting to feel a little dehydrated herself from all of the energy she spent smacking around the hyenas. “Phew. Say Twilight, you think we can teleport on out of here before we start to parched…” She then noticed her coat is starting to sport some pink spots. “…and get sunburned.”

“Of course.” Twilight said with a smile before gesturing everyone to get together for a group huddle before they all teleported away in one flash.

At the same time, the hyenas have just crash landed a small distance from the volcano. Aside from the beatings they took in from their most recent battle, they were all left unharmed from the Roar’s impact.

“So much for that plan.” Janja grumbled.

“I guess Scar's plan worked out as good as one of yours. Huh Janja?” Cheezi obliviously chuckled.

“Think he's gonna be mad?” Chungu asked knowing of the lion/alicorn’s little tolerance towards failure. Especially considering they had almost half of the Guard dead to rights there, literally in the hole.

Realizing this Janja prepared to lead the others away in the opposite direction. “You know maybe we don't gotta go right back to the volcano.”

“Janja!”

“Hyenas!”

Both Ushari and Starlight called out to the trio just when they arrived and spotted them trying to turn and walk away.

“Scar wants to see you. Now.”

“And he's not happy.”

To back it up, the volcano produced a small eruption that Scar himself had created to make it clear to them that they are in serious trouble for their failure to off some of the members of the Lion and Pony Guard.

All Janja could do was nervously gulp while Cheezi and Chungu both cowered behind their leader knowing what he is going to say to them when they arrive. “Oh boy.”

With no other choice, the hyenas all made their way on over to the volcano while all terrified for their lives. During which Starlight took some pleasure at their plight when she smirked in their direction. “Dead men coming through!”

Now that Beshte and Applejack have been rescued, the Lion and Pony Guard as a whole can feel relieved that the danger has passed.

They were all now recovering in Sweet Apple Acres, where Applejack is having her legs treated by her big brother Big Macintosh and Twilight who is moving to work her healing magic on her injuries. Pinkie Pie and Rarity are both resting on lounge chairs with ice on their foreheads still weary from the hit they took back in the Outlands.

While Beshte, Pinkie, and Rarity will all be find with some bed rest and taking off from duty for the next few days, Applejack herself took in the worst wounds of the bunch due to the fractures on her back legs. Even with Twilight managing to reduce the severity of her injuries down to small fractures with her magic, the orange earth pony is facing some sit and rest time for a while in order for her legs to recover and repair themselves along with wearing a cast at all times.

Everyone is now currently helping themselves to well-earned apple cider with Rainbow Dash, Bunga, and Twilight all handing them each a bottle so they can help themselves to a drink alongside them.

“Beshte, Applejack, I'm so sorry I got you both swept into the Outlands.” Kion apologized.

“And I’m sorry for accidentally causing you both to get knocked out back there, Pinkie, Rarity.” Twilight also apologized.

“That's okay Kion. It's not like you did it on purpose. You were helping the zebras.”

“And considering the ground there was drying up really fast, it wasn’t exactly like you had any other choice.”

“So of course, all is forgiven, silly lion cub and filly.”

“I think the boys have said it best, darlings. Especially considering you were stopping Janja and his brutes from murdering both Beshte and Applejack, Twilight.”

“Yeah and it all worked out great.” Bunga added in agreement while doing a front flip. “Plus we got to see all the hyenas go flying!”

“I know right!” Pinkie cheerfully chimed in while talking her mouth off randomly appearing in and out every flash second. “First they we all grinning like smugly mad, then they were all “Uh-oh.”, and before they knew it they were all “Whoa!” when they were all sent flying!” Kion chuckled knowing of how true it was.

“No kidding! That was so awesome as always!” Rainbow said feeling very excited herself going through that thrill once again now that the Pride Lands are back under their control.

“Yeah and that never would've happened if you guys hadn't come to look for me.” Beshte added.

“And for that, we thank for you all for saving our lives.” Applejack added while briefly taking her hat off while placing it to her chest to show how grateful they are to them.

“You can always count on us Beshte.” Twilight said with an assuring smile.

“You know it Big B.” Bunga added while slapping his paw onto his side.

“Yeah, way to tough out that heat, A.J.” Rainbow also complimented while jabbing her in the arm with a friendly punch.

But because the two had endured quite a sunburn while out there they both felt a sting from when their friends touched them like that.

“Ow.” They both winced with Applejack feeling it more given that Rainbow packed a harder punch on her skin.

“Oops, sorry.” Rainbow apologized upon seeing the pain she accidentally inflicted on her.

“Ooh. You really did get burned out there.” Bunga commented apologetically. “My bad.”

“It’s okay, partner.” Applejack accepted their apology.

“Yeah. It's good to be home.” Beshte agreed. “Where there's lots of shade.” He then sees his favorite and long-awaited relief. “And mud! Oh yeah! Gotta love it!”

He was the first to charge towards and leap into the pit, thus splattering his team with mud much to both Rarity and Fuli’s dismay and Applejack’s relief since mud does actually give her something to ease her burns away too.

“Do we?” Fuli asked with an irritated sigh while Rarity was left stuttering and flustered feeling like a train wreck with her precious mane all messy again.

Luckily for them, Twilight was kind enough to remove the mud from their fur and combed the unicorn’s mane back into its eloquent well-groomed state. They both smiled at the alicorn princess in return while the rest of the Guard laughs happily in amusement at their lovable friend’s passion for mud true to his nature.

Author's Note

Here and I'm sure you guessed it both Beshte and Applejack have gotten themselves into a little adventure during their accidental trip to the Outlands, one that the Outsiders were quick to take advantage of after Kion's Roar in helping rescue the zebras (again :ajbemused: ) accidentally washed them there.

Said encounter with the hyenas, lead to some broken legs, head trauma, and near-fatality's that would have happened had the Lion and Pony Guard not gotten there in time. And they were sure to make good and teaching a lesson against trying to take out their friends and comrades, a lesson that they're of course going never learn until they admit defeat which of course Scar wouldn't have.

That said the hyenas are going to be in hot water for botching said attempt on their lives along with a flawlessly set up plan for that.

Next week, and a good thing for the Lion and Pony Guard is that the next episode will feature the Grand Galloping Gala, an event that hasn't been seen since the end of Season 1 as Discord gets an invite to his first attending of the event, all while chaotically sorting out his emotions along the way (which of course we all know how that will turn out) so stay tuned until then...

Episode 8: Make New Friends But Keep Discord

Episode 8:

Make New Friends But Keep Discord

Ever since the three have become best friends, Fluttershy, Beshte, and Discord have gotten together on Tuesdays. Usually it’s for tea and snacks, sometimes it’s usually something they can play together before they enjoy their snacks. And recently, Bunga has gotten into their weekly get together’s and found himself having a blast with them.

One week they tried bowling together. Although it’s a game Beshte does well at, Discord having chaotic magic at his disposal keeps scoring perfect 300’s on every game he played to the point he openly bragged about it to everyone around him, so essentially Discord earned himself a one game limit at the bowling alley with his antics. Not that it mattered since Fluttershy is never really good at bowling giving she doesn’t quite have a muscle to push a ten pound ball down with enough speed to hit the pins, let alone knock them down and avoid rolling into the gutter lanes much to her embarrassment.

Luckily, the three were able to find other sports to try out for and they have all worked quite well to their liking. They managed to play tennis together, along with volleyball, and baseball, and they were all able to have fun together with volleyball being their more go-to sport moreso than the others they have tried out. Even with his large size Beshte was able to use his weight to adapt to his more agile friends very well.

After their latest game in volleyball, the friends went to Fluttershy’s cottage to drink some tea and have some snacks. They sat in the living room where they are all listening to another of Discord's stories.

"Ohoho, but that's not all! When I went to look for them again, they were on the ceiling!"

The Pegasus, honey badger, and hippo all laughed at the story. Just listening to him tell these stories is so hilarious to hear.

"Oh, Discord, I've never known anybody as funny as you!" Fluttershy giggled her heart out.

“I know right!” Bunga laughed in agreement while his best friend took a taste of tea like any polite guest would drink it. “Especially that story about the time you tried to train your right paw…to fetch your left leg!"

Suddenly, Beshte had snorted tea from his snout from all of the laughing he did. “Whoa!” He gasped before sheepishly smiling while coughing in between words. “Guess I had a little too much tea too soon.”

“Yeah…” Bunga said sounding quite surprised and stunned yet very amused by what he just saw. “…at least it didn’t go down any further.”

“Why is that?” Discord asked before realizing. “Oh, because it would go down towards the basement and not the attic!” He then laughed hysterically. “Oh, that’s good!”

“Discord!” Fluttershy scolded and frowned at him. “Mind your manners!”

“Oops, did I say that out loud.” Discord realized again he said his inner thoughts out loud. “Sorry.”

Fluttershy being too kind to laugh about it pulled some tissues out so she can wipe the snot off his snout. “I really enjoy our Tuesday teas." Fluttershy said before taking another sip. "And it was wonderful to share them with the rest of our friends."

“And it’s wonderful to be able to join you…” Bunga said while taking a bite of his cookie. “…who would have known that I’d have the time of my life with the spirit of chaos?”

“Like my dad always said, don’t knock tell you try it. Anything can happen when it comes to friendship, Little B.”

Fluttershy's smiled as she had this to say. "Oh, and I can't wait for you all to meet my friend Tree Hugger. She's going to love you too."

The minute she said her name, Discord suddenly felt a bit surprised and visbily…uneasy. "Tree Hugger?"

"I met her on a trip to see the Breezies. She's a member of the Equestrian Society for the Preservation of Rare Creatures." Fluttershy explained.

“How nice for you." He said somewhat bitterly, before actually chewing on his teacup.

“Well that sounds nice to hear.” Bunga complimented. “Can’t want to actually meet her.”

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll love her Bunga.” Beshte smiled. “She is very interesting and has quite the green love.”

Bunga chuckled. “Enviromentally friendly, I get it.”

"We're all gonna have so much fun together at the Grand Galloping Gala!" Fluttershy said with delight.

Once again it was that time of the year, and this time everyone was invited. From the smallest hydrax to the biggest elephant, everyone’s been given tickets to attend this year’s Gala, though Discord felt displeased when he tossed his tea away, like he wasn’t invited.

But none of the less he still put forward a smile as he smiled at his best pony friend. “Oh, I was wondering when you were going to ask me. I'd love to."

Unfortunately for him he found his friend’s smile fading before confessing as she looked down rather awkwardly. "Oh. Oh, no. Um, I'm afraid I've already asked Tree Hugger."

Predictably, he wasn't too happy about that. "Okay…it’s just one friend, no big deal. I’m sure I can make arrangements with someone else…” He said as he eagerly smiled at Bunga and Beshte hoping that had extra tickets either one of them could spare.

But judging from the equally awkward looks they were responding with, it didn’t seem to be the case in this regard.

“Gosh…I’m sorry Discord, but I already invited Mtoto to come with me to the Gala as my plus one.”

“And I’ve already did the same with both Shauku and Gumba…” Discord looks on confused. "...since Kion already decided to give me his plus-one ticket.” He could not believe what he is hearing. “What? He’s my best friend and he’s already invited since he’s a prince.”

“But…oh…since when is that even possible?” Discord was now baffled. “Kion’s already royalty and now he gets an automatic invite.”

“Sorry.” Bunga shrugged. “Much like Twilight that’s the way it works with royalty.”

Discord then moved to get up and put on his coat before preparing to make his leave.

"I'm sorry, Discord." Flutteshy apologized to assure it’s nothing personal. "We assumed you'd have your own ticket since you, King Simba, and Princess Celestia are friends now. Were you not invited?"

"Who, me? It probably got lost in the mail or maybe the king had some reservations. No biggie, as the foals say. Well, gotta go!"

"But we haven't had any of our Tuesday teacakes." She lifted the plate up and Discord immediately stashed them all into his coat.

"Well, I guess we're just going to have to exclude them from our party this time. Oh, did I say that out loud? I mean, ta-ta."

In a flash of light, he disappeared, leaving the others to finish the rest of the tea and treats on the table.

“Okay…” Bunga said before picking up one of the teacakes on the plate that Discord didn’t take. “…talk about caking it well.”

“Yeah…really good one, Little B.” Beshte awkwardly replied while Fluttershy responded with a silent nod unsure of what to say at the moment.

While the joke was admittedly funny, they were all too stunned and concerned for Discord to even openly laugh at the moment.

Later on in the week it is now the eve of the Gala. Kyoga was currently asleep in the Pride Rock caves. She was groaning a little as she stretched her back before opening her eyes a little to make sure she isn’t pulling any muscles. She found herself startled and fully awake when she found herself face to face with the spirit of chaos right in front of her.

“Hey!” She quickly back-handed him and caused him to slam into the back of the cave caused a big crack in the walls inside.

After recovering from the impact, he retained his steely and menacing stare. “Where’s Kion and Twilight?”

"In Canterlot, helping the alicorns along with the king and queen with the Gala! Anymore questions or are you seeking to find out what happens when you decide rudely interrupt someone when they’re trying to sleep in today?!" Discord then disappeared without another word, leaving the grumpy lioness to slump back down onto the ground so she can go back to sleep. “Ugh. The first night I get to sleep in after a long week and this is what I get as thanks.”

At Canterlot Boutique, Rarity was currently putting the finishing touches on the kid’s outfits along with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo's gowns and as always she was very excited to seize upon the opportunity to create new dresses for each and one of her friends along with her sister.

“Oh, your first Grand Galloping Gala! The excitement, the anticipation! I wouldn't miss this for all the jewels in Equestria!" She happily expressed while putting on a light green bow on her little sister’s gown.

Said gown was light blue with a matching flower on her head and had a green gem stone on the chest to match the ribbon wrapped around her body. Scootaloo wore a purple gown with a dragon-fly like decoration on her hair.

Once they were properly fitted they leaped around like happy school girls while doing a sing song dance. "We're going to the Gala! We're going to the Gala! We're going to the Gala!" All while on the side of the room, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Ono, and Fuli were playing cards nearby, sitting on the floor.

Upon hearing and seeing them get all giddy had the country pony speak up to quell it down. "Alright, y'all, keep it down." said the country pony, "It ain't like it's a life-changin' experience or nothiiiiing…" However she found herself at a loss for words when her little sister walked out of the dressing room, wearing a peach colored dress with a flower hair clip, still wearing her big pink bow. The country pony started to tear up at the sight. "My little sister's all grown up!" she then blew her nose into Ono’s wing, much to his disgust.

"Hey!" He yanked it away from her before grabbing rushing over to Rarity’s shower so he can sanitize himself.

Fuli simply suppressed her laugh before moving to get a good look at the little zebra and ostrich trying on their gowns for the Gala since she is planning on taking the former as her plus one while Ono takes the latter as his. And both are looking quite the beauties alongside each other.

The zebra had on stunning bright blue dress with a light orange ribbon and bowtie while the ostrich had an equally beautiful yellow gown with a bright blue ribbon wrapped around it and a matching bow on her head.

“So…”

“…How do we look?”

“You look beautiful, the both of you.” Fuli sweetly complimented to the shy girls blushing at the feeling of wearing dresses. To them, wearing clothes and fancy styled ones are new to them and to hear such a rare compliment from someone who’s not exactly a complete fan for girly girl stuff. “Really, you both look really great in those gowns.”

“Oh, well…”

“…thanks.”

Fuli simply leaned in so she can gently assure them it’s okay. “I get that’s not quite your style, but you’ll get used to it, I promise.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders giggled with glee and both their own continuing excitement and being unable to indulge in a little teasing their friends a little, "This is gonna be the best night ever!" Just then they looked too of the nearby windows were looking yellow that looks like something’s alive, along with the red dot in the center of the two windows. The girls screamed in terror before running away.

Said eyes belonged to none other than Discord who manifested himself in front of everyone.

“Discord!” The two girls both exclaimed in fear before hiding behind the cheetah for safety.

“It’s okay, girls…” Fuli gently assured “…Discord is on our side now…Mostly.” She muttered to herself on the last word given how he shows his ‘friendly’ nature.

“Indeed I am…” Discord said before eyeing Apple Bloom hiding behind her big sister for protection who likewise frowned at him. “…and I don't suppose that, uh, these adorable little cutie pies have their own tickets to the Gross Gruesome Gala, do they?" He tickled Apple Bloom's chin, but she slapped his paw away and blew a raspberry to which Applejack smiled proudly at her little sister for standing up to him.

Rarity cleared her throat before speaking while Sweetie Belle hides behind her. "Ahem! To answer your rather rude question, they're going as our dates, our plus-ones." She smiled as she hugged her little sister, who began to singsong again.

"We're plus-ones!" The rest of the Crusaders joined in again. "We're plus ones! We're plus-ones!"

Discord removed his horns and plucked them into his ears to cancel out the sound. "Yes, yes, yes, I believe I got that!" He disappeared then reappeared alongside Fuli. “Unless of course…”

Fuli quickly cut him off. “Nope. Sorry. Position’s already filled, both mine and Ono’s, so don’t bother wasting your breath on him, I can already smell it.”

The kids all giggled in response leaving the humiliated spirit of Chaos to scowl before teleporting away all while blowing a raspberry at them in response.

Just after Discord had left for good, Ono had finally emerged from the showers feeling clean as a whistle. “Phew! A few seconds carrying those germs I sure would have been looking green on the beak…” He said to himself before eyeing everyone in the room. “…what did I miss?” He curiously asked.

“Not much.” Fuli replied casually like nothing happened. “And probably for the best you weren’t around for Discord being here for the sake of having a heart attack.”

“Don’t you mean headache?”

“Nope.” She firmly stood by what she meant much to his confusion. “Trust me ‘I’ don’t think you would have wanted to see him while you were looking green on the beak.”

The kids all giggled once more much to Ono’s irritation upon getting the joke she just made at his expense.

“Ha, ha, ha, very funny.” He remarked sarcastically before moving to fly over and focus on what outfit Rarity has designed for him.

Meanwhile at Sugarcube Corner…

"Have a wonderful, special, fantastic day!" Pinkie Pie had just finished another order before moving to walk by a gray-colored box. "Oh, hi, Discord. Want some cake?" He got out, highly surprised that she knew he was there without even spotting him. "I can give you a list of all the flavors we have in order of most delicious to incredibly, unbelievably delicious!" She moved to leap on over to him much to his discomfort as he finds himself backed up against the wall.

Not in the mood for treats right now he moved to get to the point of why he’s really here. "Actually, Pinkie Pie, who are you taking to... I mean, do you…" He couldn't get himself to say the words to her as he scratched the wall a bit with his claws before settling with, "…ugh, oh, you know what? I am famished. I'll take all the cakes."

Pinkie Pie's eyes widened in shock. "All of them?!" She looked directly into the camera and began shaking it…

“Yes Pinkie…” The camera is firmly placed down onto the ground thus surprising the pink pony at whom she believes is the narrator / story teller.

"He wants all of the cakes!" She quickly got to work in the kitchen so she can put together his order.

"Well, I'll need all my energy when I'm dancing at the Gala, if I decide to go that is.” He said while casually leaning against the counter. He then managed pop in the question. “Oh, by the way, are you bringing anypony?"

"Oh, of course!" Discord’s hopeful smile vanished into a resentful frown as she watched Pinkie Pie chatting her mouth off as she packed the cakes into the boxes. "I was gonna ask my mom, because she's, you know, my mom, but it turned out she didn't want to go, so I started asking around and around and around..."

As she kept on talking, Discord spotted Fluttershy walking into town with another pony. A green colored earth mare with long and wavy, somewhat unkempt orange-red hair with a very relaxed expression, along with a flower imprinted light orange bandana on her head.

He looked on very jealously with his anger at being passed over to going to the gala eating into him.

"…and I couldn't think of anypony, and I was about to just go by myself, and I realized, of course! Who loves fancy exciting affairs more than anypony else? My sister Maud!"

"You know what? Cancel my order." He disappeared in a flash of light, leaving Pinkie Pie alone with a large assortment of boxes around the shop now very shocked, confused, and disappointed she did all of that work for nothing.

"You want none of the cakes now?!"

“Afraid so, Pinkie…” The voice spoke to her as she looked around trying to find out where it is coming from.

Outside Fluttershy and her plus-one walked together with the former laughing. "Oh, my, you are funny!"

"I guess every being in Equestria is funny today." Discord sarcastically remarked as he appeared in between the two and stood before them with his back to them.

"Oh, how rude of me. Tree Hugger, this is Discord. Discord, Tree Hugger."

The new pony greeted the spirit, speaking a very mellow and somewhat hippie-like tone. "Radical to meet you. Really digging your vibe."

Discord turned to face her still not feeling pleasant inside with his eyes glowing red to visibly illustrate that, "My vibe?"

"It's a compliment." Fluttershy said upon sensing his unhappiness.

"Oh, well, I'm sure it is. Well, I must be off." He snapped his fingers and disappeared and then reappeared with his back turned on them and his arms crossed. "It has nothing to do with seeing you or not seeing you. You can rest assured of that." He said as he turned around while wiggling his finger before disappearing and reappearing again. "Have fun at the Gala!" And this time, he disappeared away from them for good but not without turning away and face-palming in exasperation.

"Righteous!" Tree Hugger said with a smile already taking a liking to him.

Yet Fluttershy knew deep down that something about the Gala is clearly bugging him, but can’t figure out what exactly.

Afterwards, Discord went to his home for the rest of the day. The place itself naturally is quite fitting since he is the lord of chaos. Everything was floating in a large empty vacuum of dark blue waves, with strange and abnormal creatures floating around, along with several random objects, trees, and other various things that made no sense of them being there. Even his house was chaotically out of order. The stairs were upside down, the doors were on the ceiling, everything was completely mismatched and misplaced. Once he was inside he wasted no time in mimicking Fluttershy's voice to voice himself of his displeasure of her decision to bring Tree Hugger as her plus one to the Gala.

"Oh, Tree Hugger. You're such a great friend. So much funnier than unfunny old Discord!" He slammed the door and accidentally caused a vase to fall and break. He quickly zapped on some cleaning attire and began 'cleaning' the place along with the accidental mess he had. More specifically, by that to him it’s making it filthier. He added more dust bunnies under the couch, placed soap and water onto the windows instead of cleaning them off and 'washed' the clean dishes, making the dirty and placing them into the pile, all the while mimicking his friend's voice.

"No, no, here. Take my plus-one. I insist. Before somepony else thinks he's my friend and expects to be asked instead. What's that? You're worried Discord might be upset?" Not a problem! I can make more new friends anytime I want." After finishing up his daily chores he moved to angrily sit on the couch. "It's not as if any of this actually mattered! I don't even want to go to the Gala anyway!"

He then heard yelling forming from outside and went outside to find what and where it’s coming from. The answer to his question happened to be a parcel pony floating uncontrollably and screaming in terror. Discord moved to catch him. "Are you perhaps looking for me?"

The pony took out a letter from his pocket before replying. "Are you "Discord or current resident"? I can't find any street numbers in this place."

Discord took the letter and used his magic to open it, revealing a golden ticket. He smiled with glee knowing what this means for him. "My ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala! I was invited after all!" He hugged the pony so tightly he could hardly breathe. But then he suddenly had another mood swing when he glared at him in anger, making him quake in fear when he was forced to look at his burning red eyes. "Why is this so late?" he asked in a scarily dark tone.

"Well, I got a little lost after I escaped the flying badgers... Can you point me in the direction of the bottomless pit? I think I can make my way back from there."

"Oh, over there. Somewhere. Just go over there." Discord released the poor pony so he can wander his way out of the chaotic dimension. "Looks like I'll see you all at the Gala after all. But I can't show up alone. Who could I bring on such short notice?" He pondered for a moment before he giggled mischievously when he figured out the answer to himself. And judging from whatever he has in mind, it’s definitely not going to end well for anybody there…

After all of that waiting building up to this day, The Grand Galloping Gala had finally arrived. Ponies, Pride Landers, and all various animals attended, and there was even a jazz band providing the music, giving it a more upbeat fell. Like last time, Princess Celestia, King Simba, Princess Twilight, Prince Kion, all stood on the top of the stairs joined by Princess Luna, Princess Kiara, and Queen Nala to greet the guests.

This year everyone all had new dresses for tonight’s special event.

For the Pride Lander leaders, Simba had on a red jacket with a black bowtie in contrast to the outfit he had on last time. Nala had on a brighter sky blue dress with plenty of diamond sequins on it courtesy of Rarity with white pearl earrings. Kiara had on a peach and orange colored dress.

For the Equestrian leaders, Celestia had on a pink and peach gown much like Kiara’s while Luna had on a black dress with a dark blue necklace made out of gems that Rarity had provided her.

Twilight wore a light blue gown, with a simple and regular blue ribbon tied to the side of her waist and her hair was styled into a loose bun, and her bangs wrapped up with the remaining strands curled up.

Kion much like his mother’s dress had on a cooler shade blue tuxedo with a matching blue bowtie. He also had a white pearl watch on his left wrist to further match his mother’s pearls on her ears to which Rarity insisted he wear for a splash of fancy taste much like his mother’s formal attire.

Never the less, all of their friends and family were there. The only ones uninvited are of course is the current Pride Land enemies with Ushari included in light of his treasonous actions from his attempted attack on the alicorn sisters during the second Battle of Pride Rock. Not that it mattered to him since the last time the Gala was held resulted in a massive disaster created courtesy of Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and of course the one he especially hates the most, Bunga.

"I must say, it's been very nice having you take over some of the planning responsibilities for this year's Gala." Celestia thanked the two young leaders standing by her side.

"Anything we can do to make it easier on you." Twilight said thinking nothing of it.

“Thank you both. "Thank you, girls. I am quite looking forward to just enjoying the Gala for once."

“Me too.” Luna added since she is here and dressed up for once.

“Along with some nice quality time with my husband.” Nala added to which both husband and wife chuckled knowing what that’s mean much to their son’s discomfort.

“Mom…Dad…?!”

“It’s just a dance, Kion. Nothing else.” His mother assured while Twilight looked aside to suppress her laughter much to her friend’s further embarrassment and his sister’s amusement.

“I can tell you two are having fun already.” Kion remarked at the young girls who simply shrug in response both already having and liking the older sister vibe together. And at least they are being friendly about it and not being overly mean about it.

Just then fanfare sounded off and the announcer pony began calling the guests' names when they arrived.

"Announcing, Sir Bunga of the Pride Lands, Bravest of the Lion Guard, and his guest, Shauku."

The honey badger himself wearing a white tuxedo and a silver bowtie alongside his plus one companion wasted no time in soaking in all of the attention given to him. “Thank you! Thank you everyone! Thank you!”

“Oh, Bunga…” Kion shook his head rather amused alongside Twilight. “…you didn’t have to make that big of an entrance.”

“But what fun is that?” He asked back before eyeing the nearby snack table. “Oh, come on buddy, dinner is served.”

“Wait for me!” He yelled after him before they both engorged on a ton of fun there.

Well that got the night furthermore interesting since there were some Pride Landers encouraging them to eat as much as they can along with some others who cared to join them.

So far, things were really looking up in the right direction this year. That is until they witnessed one more guest arrive…

"Announcing the spirit of chaos, Discord, and his guest, the, uh…" The former whispered into his ear. "The Smooze!"

The entire ballroom gasped in horror at the sight of the creature! It was a big pile of green blob that was oozing disgusting slime wherever it went! It had no eyes but a mouth and it wore a red tie and blue top hat.

Muhimu, the mother zebra wound up gasping and fainting upon seeing it, while Swala still looks on stunned while catching the former. Twiga looked on before moving to the nearby window and throwing up while Vuruga Vuruga had to shield her on eyes to avoid gaining the urge herself. But Discord himself was as charming as always, wearing his flashy orange tuxedo and matching top hat.

"Good evening, everybody! What a glorious affair!"

The Smooze's mouth somehow stretched out and took one of the announcer’s horn.

"He does have a yen for shiny things, the rascal." Discord patted the Smooze's head, only to have his paw covered in goop, which he wiped off on the announcer's jacket.

Both Kion and Twilight were left shocked and disgusted in what they were seeing.

“What in the Pride Lands?” The former gasped before smiling alongside his best friend to the others standing beside them.

Thurston however looked like he was about to “Panic and Run.” again. Just when he was gasping Kyoga, who was currently wearing a light purple ballgown quickly placed a paw on his mouth to keep him from doing so. “Now, calm down everyone, I’m sure there’s a very good explanation for this.”

“We'll take care of this." Twilight stated before she and Kion rushed and casually dragged Discord back to the entrance. "What are you doing here with... that?!" She asked while pointing to the creature, for which various guests were avoiding.

“Discord…” Kion said rather sternly. “…when we said that all guests can bring a plus one to the Gala we didn’t mean something that’ll disrupt other ponies and Pride Landers. Plus boogers and snot is not funny!"

Discord wagged his finger at them in response. "Now, now, now. The Smooze may be an "it", but it's an it with a heart of, well, blob."

Twilight however could see through it all. “Are you doing this just to get back at us for not inviting you to the gala?”

“No of course.” He played it off like it was a joke. “I’m just giving creatures like Smooze a chance to relish in the royalty beautiful surroundings of Canterlot. There isn’t a problem with it is it?”

Kion seeing through his reason too, moved to look at Discord in the eyes to make his point across. “Look, this night is extremely important to us, the alicorns, and my family." He and Twilight send them a wave and a reassuring smile.

Twilight added as she spoke through gritted teeth, "So keep it under control!"

Discord managed to gently move both the prince and princess away with his staff. "Yes, yes, yes, of course. Tell me, have you seen Fluttershy anywhere?" He walked away looking for his other friend, leaving the prince and princesses to look on very wary of him. Knowing him, whatever he is doing can’t be good.

Elsewhere, Applejack and Rarity both wearing newer and fancier green and purple dresses to the Gala both follower and smiled at the Crusader's enthusiasm to being at the biggest social event of the year. The former had on a top hat with a shiny red apple on top, with a red rose on her chest, while the latter had both blue and purple gem accessories on headdress and necklace.

"We're here! We're here! We made it to the Gala!"

Discord took out a large diamond and fed it to the Smooze. Once he ate it, it grew a few inches. Discord spotted Fluttershy near a table, happily chatting with Tree Huger and even Beshte who is with his plus one Mtoto.

Fluttershy wore a beautiful greenish-blue peacock inspired gown eight a feather in her hair. Mtoto wore a silver tuxedo with a light blue bowtie. Beshte also wore a silver tuxedo and a blue bowtie with both the tuxedo and bowtie being a darker shade of color than his younger companion. Tree Hugger wore a simple light purple dress with white flowers in her head. All three of her friends were laughing and giggling as Tree Huger told them her story.

"The aura coming off the waterfall was so alive! So, like, magic manifestation."

"Wow."

“Poa!”

“Cool!”

The three friends were so entertained with the story that they didn't notice Discord 'accidentally' bumping into Fluttershy.

"Oh, Fluttershy, Behste. I didn't see you there." But much to his shock, they both ignored him.

"How did you even know to look for an aura on a waterfall?" Fluttershy asked.

Discord then tried clearing his throat, irritably hacking and coughing to get their attention, which he finally did.

“Aah!” Mtoto gasped upon seeing him still scared of him.

"Discord!"

“You made it! For a minute there we thought you weren’t coming!”

"No. I actually never said that. But funny how you remembered it that way. Anyway, good to see you. Tree Friend, is it? Your name is slipping my mind right now. How strange."

But the green pony remained perfectly mellow and friendly in response. "Nice to meet you. I'm Tree Hugger. Blessings."

"You have met me before, actually!" Discord replied irritably before snorting, like an angry bull.

"Cool! Like, in another life, maybe?"

"You've gotta be kidding. You don't remember me?" He removed his hat to show off his mismatched horns, hoping to jog her memory from before the Gala.

Tree Huger only laughed in response. "I meet a lot of different creatures, each one of them perfect and unique."

Discord still was rubbed off the wrong way but was not about to that ruin tonight. "Yes, well, as I was saying, it's just great to be here with my oldest, bestest friend." He said as he wrapped his arms around Fluttershy and Beshte.

"Are we really your oldest, bestest friends?" Fluttershy asked with a heartfelt smile.

Discord laughed like it was a joke. "You? Of course not! You think I don't have other friends? I'm centuries old! I was talking about the Smooze!" He introduced his guest to the others. "Smoozeface, the Smoozinator – well, I mean that's what we called him back in college." He then placed the gigantic blood on the table, startling everyone at the table. "Smooze! I would like you to meet Fluttershy, P'Li and, um, hmm... Tree... how'd you say it... Tree Embrace?"

“Discord…” Beshte spoke a little concerned. “…are you okay?”

“Of course, why wouldn’t I?”

“You seem to not quite understand True Hugger’s name even after we just told you quite a few times.”

Regardless Tree Hugger took it in stride. “It’s okay Beshte.” She said as she takes the time to meet Smooze. "Oh, I like that! It's so in rhythm with my life force! Maybe I'll change it!"

The Smooze started reaching for Tree Huger's shinny yellow necklace, but Discord slapped him before he could.

Beshte seeing that this is not quite a comfortable family-friendly atmosphere but not wanting to upset the guests moved to greet Discord’s plus-one invite. "Nice to meet you…Smooze." The creature smiled back thus making him start to think he’ll won’t be too much of a problem tonight.

Fluttershy giggled, being amused by the creature herself. "I can't believe I've never heard you speak of the Smooze before. Sounds like you two are so close."

Discord crossed his arms in a pouty manner in response. "Well, I'm glad you got that, because that's what is true. We are." he disappeared and then reappeared, hugging the Smooze, who had just left the table. "Very close."

"That's wonderful! The five of us should go out to dinner sometime!"

Discord reacted by accidentally squeezing the Smooze toot tightly, causing it to fall apart only to reconnect itself again and slither away.

"We should all go out to dinner sometime?! Have you no heart?" He heard a couple of elderly ponies screaming in terror, "Oh, oh! It looks like somepony wants to mingle. We'll be back in a bit."

"Oh, okay. Beshte, Treezie and I would love to talk to you more later!"

Discord only became more incensed. "Treezie? Really? Sort of a juvenile nickname, don't you think?" The sound of smashing glass and ponies screaming caught his attention. "Smoozie! Wait up!"

He followed after her leaving both Fluttershy and Beshte not quite understanding what the hay was going on with Discord and why he was acting like he was left out.

“Mtoto, he’s gone, you can come out.” The hippo told his little friend who looked on relieved that Discord is no longer around, yet amazed that he and Fluttershy are best buds not even afraid of him.

“Thanks.” But then he asked. “How you are both not even scared of him.”

“Simple. By taking the time to actually get to know him and befriend him we learned he can be quite friendly deep down.”

“Yes, turns out all he really needed was someone to show him a little kindness when it really mattered.”

“Really?”

“Yes, maybe if you give it a chance, it’s magic might work wonders on you and Discord.”

“I guess.” Even with their kindness, Mtoto was still a little hesitant in wanting to befriend him. “Whenever he is done acting weird.”

Even still Beshte and Fluttershy both remained confident that it can happen.

“I’m sure we arrange that, no problem.” Beshte confidently replied before looking on where he last saw Discord headed. “Hopefully sometime tonight.”

Discord led the Smooze to the doors that led to the garden outside. "Now, listen, Smooze. I need to make this a party of one for a little while. Just stay out here until I come for you." He pushed the poor creature out into the garden and locked the door. He heard laughing and saw Apple Bloom, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Tree Hugger, Beshte, Bunga, Ono, Fuli, Kambuni, and Kwato all laughing.

Discord appeared and began laughing loudly, making the situation awkward.

"What's so funny?" Tree Hugger asked.

"Exactly!"

Feeling awkward, Rainbow, Scootaloo and the two Apple sisters backed way slowly, "Uhh… I think we're gonna go hit the dance floor." Rainbow Dash said on behalf of herself and her plus-one.

Fuli was also quick to come up with an excuse. “Come on girls, let’s go to the garden and admire the flowers.”

“Good idea.”

“Let’s.”

Ono was quick to join them. “Wait for me!”

Discord wrapped his arm around the yellow pony, "Fluttershy, tell the Hugs here about the time that we went to the store and came back with two cakes instead of one, because that's how crazy we are when we're together."

"Um, we went to the store and bought two cakes." Fluttershy said, feeling slightly awkward and having no idea why he wanted her to tell it.

"Oh. Then, what about when me and Beshte went sliding down the Hakuna Matata falls, remember that?"

The hippo too felt awkward. “Yeah I remember that. We sure had quite some fun together.”

Discord arched an eyebrow, "Well, you kind of left out all the fun and frivolity there. But I'm sure you got it, Tree Hugger."

"I got that you really like cake and board games." She said with a smile, which only further angered him.

"We like each other. That was the point! I'm actually pretty lukewarm about cake."

"AAAAAAHHHHHHHH"

All of the guests were startled at the sound of a very loud female scream. One that belongs to Rarity herself. She had gone out to the garden for some air and she was now banging hard on the doors.

"Let me in!" she shouted.

Fuli who just happened to be headed towards that door quickly rushed over in and instant and unlocked it, letting the poor unicorn enter. She crawled on the floor, with her beautiful gown now covered in green ooze, spiting the repulsive substance from her mouth, gasping for air.

"That creature took my jewels!"

From outside, the Smooze was eating the headpiece of one of the party guests, frightening her before she ran off screaming. Twilight and Kion turned to the spirit of chaos, narrowing their eyes very crossly at him. The creature appeared to grow even more with every shiny thing he eats.

"Discord! I thought we told you to keep your friend under control!" Twilight scolded angrily.

"Oh, please. I have better things to do than to watch that thing all night." he quickly caught what he had just said when he noticed the looks from Fluttershy, Beshte, and Tree Hugger. He laughed nervously, "What I mean to say is, that thing is a dear, dear friend, and I'll make sure that the ooze, uh, that he can't help but secrete doesn't get on anybody else."

He appeared before Rarity and used a vacuum cleaner to suck up all the ooze out of her…including her dress. The unicorn felt so embarrassed to be seen without her dress and tried to cover herself, feeling violated.

Bunga taking notice of this commented to the mongoose while munching on the refreshments relentlessly. “Boy talk about embarrassing.”

“I know considering we usually don’t wear clothes.”

“I know right!”

Feeling sympathy, with a bright glow of her horn, Twilight made her friend’s gown reappear on her, all clean and unharmed, much to her relief. "Thank you, darling."

Kion then addressed to the party guests, "It's alright, everybody, everypony. Let's just get back to enjoying this magical evening!"

After receiving his only warning from both the youngest prince and princess, Discord pulled the Smooze with a leach since the giant blob was making things more complicated than he had hoped. " You are making me look like a fool in front of everyone." He led the creature to a closet and shoved him inside before closing the door, "I'll be back when the Gala is over."

The poor guy was now feeling really sad to be locked away in a closet, especially since he was actually having fun tonight. However, he quickly changed his attitude once he got a load of all the treasures inside the closet, all with a huge appetite.

Meanwhile while both Pinkie and Gumba were both having a blast at laughing together while the former’s stoic sister looks on without any hint of emotion, Fuli is with the two girls who are still absorbing their surroundings at the Gala.

“So what do you think? Everything okay so far?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Sure.”

It didn’t take much for Fuli to sense that there is something that’s not allowing them to feel completely comfortable tonight. “Expect…”

“I never expected that there would be so many animals and ponies here tonight.” Kambuni shyly squeaked.

“Me neither.” Kwato agreed while hiding and clinging behind her sparkling yellow and black stripe dress.

“It’s okay.” Fuli continued treating them like she is their mother. “Understandable. It is your first Gala, so naturally it takes time warming up to what this event has to offer.” She then spots Fluttershy nearby along with Beshte. “Tell you what, how about we go over and see what Fluttershy and Beshte are doing, I see Mtoto is there too and they are all enjoying company from a new friend too.”

“Sure!” Both girls gleamed up at the idea eager to see the friends they are most comfortable being around.

At the same time, Discord then appeared on the chandelier, looking down at the ballroom. He heard laughing and spotted Fluttershy, Beshte, and Mtoto with Tree Hugger.

"Oh, Tree Hugger, I've never known anypony as funny as you!"

At that point, Discord was really letting his anger and jealousy get the better of him. So he decided to try his hand at comedy in order to resolve this.

Suddenly the lights went dim and a spotlight appeared on a stage Discord had just made. He tapped on the microphone before speaking into it.

"Check, check, check. Is this thing on? Good evening, fillies and germs! I just flew into Canterlot, and wow, are my interspecies parts tired!"

Only the sound of crickets was heard accompanied with dead silence. Nobody found it funny and only looked at Discord clearly unimpressed. He then decided to try a different approach.

"I've only got these tiny mismatched wings, and even I can fly better than Twilight Sparkle! Am I right? Pchoo!"

"Hey!" Twilight exclaimed clearly annoyed by that pot shot at her, but Kion, Kiara, and Celestia giggled a bit at her expense.

Kion stopped when he noticed that Twilight was glaring at him. He’s still learning to fly too, but he personally thought that he too can have some fun poking his friend alongside Kiara as much as they tease him at his expense.

“Aw come on Twilight. I can poke fun at you too right?”

Discord laughed nervously, seeing that didn’t get a laugh. "Uh, well, perhaps you're into more observational humor."

He zapped himself away and only his head appeared, making it look like he was sticking his head out through the brick wall background before walking out with a new outfit, a blue dress jacket with a white shirt and red tie.

"Did you ever notice how you always materialize out of thin air? Why not thick air? What's the deal there?"

Even still that’s not even close to getting the crowd to laugh. Nothing but glares, arched eyebrows and coughs. Discord pulled on his collar, his eyes bulging in a comical manner. "Tough crowd." he said in a Rodney Dangerfield impression.

"What is he doing?!" Kion asked, feeling sympathetic yet confused.

"I think they're... jokes?" Rainbow Dash replied unsure herself.

“Well he’s not doing a pretty good job is he?” Ono commented.

“Nope.” Kyoga shook her head in agreement.

Pinkie Pie however smiled with delight. "Maud! Jokes!"

"My favorite." She said stoically.

“Mine too!” Bunga stated happily while bouncing on over with the others alongside the mongoose who like Bunga are both rolling around with balloon bellies.

“Just try not to get overinflated with your enthusiasm as much as your gut because you both hadn't missed anything so far.” Fuli quipped while glancing at the nearly destroyed tables nearly empty of food and drinks before returning the look towards the two who just look on satisfied.

“This Gala sure knows how to get great grubs.”

“No kidding.”

Ono shook his head in dismay before moving his attention back to Discord trying to tell another joke to get the crowd laughing.

"You might be a Ponyville pony when an ordinary night on the town ends in a lesson about friendship!"

“Ha, ha, ha, ha.” Ono laughed in a deadpan manner. “Like you’re one to talk about friendship, buster.”

Bunga cracked up pulled out a shotgun (unloaded of course) and then made sounds like he was shooting from it. “Burn!” The crowd all laughed in response to the two leaving the spirit of chaos feeling heated already yet again.

While Discord continued with his attempted show, Ono then turned and noticed something from behind the door where the Smooze was being kept in. The inside began to glow and leaving the white egret looking very concerned and alarmed.

“Kion, Twilight…” He whispered to them and pulled them aside for a quick word to direct their attention to what’s going on in the closet.

Back Discord was now wearing a red and white striped shirt with a French dark blue braid and vest, putting a watermelon on a stool.

"Knock knock!" But still go no amused reactions from the crowd. No giggle or even a light chuckle, nothing. And that left the spirit of chaos himself baffled that even hasn’t gotten a laugh out of it. "You're supposed to say "Who's there?"! This is the most basic of jokes!" Discord took out a wooden mallet and smashed the fruit, causing the seeds, bits and juice from the melon to splatter all over the place.

"You're the most basic of jokes." Maud said in response to his attempts at humor.

Pinkie laughed finding it hilarious, "Good one, Maud!"

Most of the party guests laughed yet, much to Discord's further embarrassment and anger. In fact he was angry to the point he glared at the honey badger making shotgun noises again just before he repeat “Burn!” again.

But at that moment, the very bright white glow caught everyone’s attention. The door busted open with a large overflow of green goop swooping down and across the room. Simba upon seeing it widened his eyes in horror.

"What is that?!"

“Hapana! Big trouble!” Ono screamed before taking flight from the ground along with Twilight who just barely avoided the glob touching her hooves.

Upon seeing the green ooze flooding the place, everyone all ran all over the place, all while screaming in terror. Instantly many of the guests found themselves stuck to the floor, unable to break free from the goo.

Rainbow Dash tried to fly but to no avail, and was left stuck to floor with her wings now covered in slime. Both Bunga and Shauku tried to hop away but weren’t quick enough to avoid getting caught in up in the goo and wound bouncing in place by it.

“Aw man!”

“Guess we really bitten off more than we can chew!”

“Hang on!” Fuli shouted to both of the little and terrified girls before carrying them out of the room as fast as she could. She winced and looked aside before charging head on into the glass.

“Fuli!” Kion screamed in horror after managing to fly off of the ground in time after witnessing that.

“We’re okay!” Fuli and the girls all called out from outside.

Kion now angered by what he was seeing moving to work his magic against the Smooze but to his frustrated surprise he finds that his attacks have no effect on it. Not even Twilight’s magic did anything to do any damage. “Hevi Kabisa! Our magic isn’t doing a thing on this ooze!”

Twilight who is floating alongside his friend turned to both Celestia and Luna who are both unfortunately covered in green slime. "Can you stop it?"

Celestia tried to activate her magic, but the tip of her horn was covered in the ooze. Luna tried to do the same along with Kyoga and her siblings but the speed the green ooze had flowed towards in their direct was too fast for them to muster a counter-attack.

"I'm afraid not!"

"Discord, how could you bring him here?!" Kion angrily yelled at the draconiquis, who appeared to be enjoying this with blatant disregard towards the other’s suffering.

"Oh, he's not that bad!"

Rarity rose up her hooves in dramatic dismay. "Oh, my shoes will be ruined forever!"

Applejack rolled her eyes in annoyance. "That's what you're worried about? Really?"

“We’ve got bigger problems than your sense of fashion. Like the feeling like we’re in the pits of the hippo’s mud springs!” Ono yelled out to her before quickly sprinting away when green ooze was about to make contact with him.

Pinkie Pie rode on Maud like a boat as she rowed across the ooze like she was floating across a great big river and having fun with it. Other’s like Makuu, Simba, Nala, Ma Tembo were all disgusted with all of the sticky stuff stuck to their paws. Bupu, Big Baboon, and Kifaru were all just looking on in unfazed dismay.

“Ugh, great!” Makuu grumbled.

“You’ve said it!” Bupu agreed.

Fluttershy, Beshte, Mtoto and Tree Hugger found themselves splattered on the wall, stuck there because of the ooze. Tree Hugger was upside down.

"This is kind of a bummer." She said without much emotion.

Discord appeared before them, "Isn't it, though? And to think, it would never have happened had I come to the Gala as somebody else's plus-one." He eyed both Fluttershy and Beshte, but it was clear that the former was still not getting the message.

Beshte however was able to piece it together. “Do you mean to tell us that you’re doing all of this just because we didn’t bring you to the Gala as our plus-one’s?”

"Seems like something might have harshed his flow, you know? Like, his senses are agitated." The hippie pony simply said unfazed even when feeling the blood flow to her head.

"You don't know anything about rare creatures. I've known Smoozeface for ages. He's not agitated. He's partying down! Whoo!"

Bupu tried to free himself to no avail since he like most others is stuck to the floor. “This coming from the guy who nearly unleashed an eternity of chaos upon us.”

“So very reassuring.” Makuu quipped in agreement.

"All he needs is some, like, calming auditory therapy." Tree Hugger said as she focused her energy on her inner peace. "I know I always feel really at peace when I'm being bathed in positive vibes. Maybe he'll calm down with some sonic bliss."

Discord scoffed in response. "Do you even know what you just said?"

Tree Hugger proceeded to meditate while making calming noises with her mouth. "Ommmm. Ee-ee-ee-ee-ee! Ommmm. Ee-ee-ee-ee-ee!"

Much to everyone’s surprise, the Smooze stopped moving around upon hearing the hippie pony’s meditating noises. He smiled as he began to rise up, soaking all of the ooze that held Fluttershy, Beshte, Mtoto, and Tree Hugger against the wall.

"Let go, Smooze! Bliss out! Ommmm. Ee-ee-ee-ee-ee!"

All of the green snow that was one everyone started to come right off, being soaked up by the Smooze, cleaning them all from top to bottom. Their cloths were as good as new again. Soon the Smooze became whole again, and was now gigantic, but smiling happily thanks to Tree Hugger's great thinking and 'positive vibes'.

“Poa!” Beshte was the first to speak up very impressed with what she just did when nothing else worked and everyone instantly cheered happily now that the Smooze was under control.

"Way to go, Tree Hugger!" Rainbow happily congratulated while flapping her wings.

Both Makuu and Bupu had an instant turnaround as even they couldn’t help but feel impressed.

“Well, I stand corrected.”

“Me too!”

Fluttershy was so proud of her friend she gave her one of her biggest hugs. "That was the most magical thing I've ever seen done with animals!" Discord seeing this was now at his breaking point with her as he began grinding his teeth in anger.

"Oh, thanks, everypony. It makes perfect karmic sense why magic or bending doesn't work on him. He only responds to vibrations that peace out his energy fields."

"Stop it! Stop it!" Discord angrily snapped. "That's it! I'm done with you, Tree Hugger!"

"Oh, man. You're really bumming me out. Can you just, like, lower your voice a slosh?"

"A skosh? A skosh?!" With a snap from his claw, he literally tore open a portal into thin air and levitated Tree Hugger upwards. The earth pony's eyes widened in horror at the sight before her for the first time tonight.

"Whoa, dude! What is that?!"

"Relax. I'm not going to hurt you. I'm simply going to send you to another dimension. I can't have you interfering in my relationship with my friends anymore!"

Fluttershy flew up to face the draconiquis seeing he is now crossing a line. "Discord, stop!"

"I will, just as soon as she's gone! Then we can have a good laugh about this whole affair over our regular Tuesday tea." He zapped a floating table in between them and sipped in the tea.

Kion deciding enough is enough flew over to get face to face with him. “That’s enough Discord! Leave her alone!” The Smooze moved to try to eat his sparkling bow tie but the young lion bared his teeth and growled at him in response ready to use the Roar against him. “Smooze! Back off! Now!”

Intimidated, Smooze whimpered before backing off knowing better than to mess with a lion with a supernatural roar.

Discord then wrapped his arm around her and Fluttershy attempting to get her to understand his reasons for doing so. "I'm doing you all a favor! It's a lovely dimension! White sand beaches, attentive wait staff... I mean, okay, the humidity isn't great, but where isn't that the case these days?"

"I don't understand why you're doing this! We were all getting along so well!"

It is there Discord finally made his ulterior motives perfectly clear to her. "As well as we could, considering you've already stomped all over our friendship by inviting her to the biggest night of the year! And none of you guys even thought about inviting me either, as if I didn't matter at all!"

"Did you really think I'd abandon you just because I have a new friend?!" Fluttershy sternly questioned.

"Yes, because that's what you did! That's what you all did!"

Beshte with his earlier suspicions confirmed then decided to speak his mind to him. “Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa. We never did anything like that. And if that’s what was you were thinking why didn’t just say so?”

"I think the better question is why didn't you figure it out?"

"If that’s so why didn’t you tell us when we tried to ask you before you created this big mess!"

"Because I was embraced! I thought you didn't want me around since you each brought your own pals to the gala! Abandoning me!"

“That’s not true Discord! We never abandoned you, not even for a second! Here we were hoping to have a great time together at the Gala as friends. Not for you to go bonkers all because your invitation arrived later than you expected.”

“But…but…” Discord was left at a loss for words. “…you didn’t invite me and neither did Fluttershy.”

“…and you truly think that we liked you any less then before?” Beshte further pressed upon Discord who couldn’t come up with a good answer.

"And what if you had a friend that you could discuss chaos-based magic with?" Fluttershy further asked. "Would that mean we weren't friends anymore?"

"Uh…No, I suppose not. It would just mean that I'd have different friends for different things…" It was there he finally came to see what he was really doing. "Oh, oh, dear, it looks like I've perhaps overreacted just a skosh."

"More like a lot of skoshes!" Fluttershy exclaimed before addressing to threaten friend. "Tree Hugger, could you give us a minute?"

The pony nodded her head in yes in response. She was perfectly fine with these friends having a moment. The two landed on the ground, next to Beshte, all still looking at Discord very disappointed with his behavior tonight.

"I'm just so new at this whole friendship thing. It's so much more complicated than it looks."

"Do you think maybe you owe somepony an apology?" Fluttershy suggested. Discord made two flowers appear on his paw and handed them to the two. But Fluttershy swatted them away. "Not us!"

"Oh! Oh. Yes, right." He snapped his fingers and the portal disappeared. Tree Hugger landed safely onto the floor on a pillow. Upon seeing that she is all right Fluttershy hugged her in relief.

Twilight cleared her throat. “Ahem!" she pointed her hoof to the Smooze, who was still trying to eat anything shiny. Discord appeared next to him, stuck his hand in and removed all of the royal jewels he had eaten, causing the Smooze to shrink back to him normal size. Once the jewels were back in the closet safely, Discord approached the green pony with a much-needed apology.

"Er, Tree Hugger, I'm sorry that you got caught in the middle of my... er, you know... wrath."

"Oh, it's all groovy." She smiled to assure all is good. Feeling relieved and satisfied, Discord embraced her in a loving hug. But to his surprise the pony gently removed herself from the attempted embrace. "Um, I need like a few minutes to clear out my chakras before I can hug you from a place of authenticity."

Discord laughed while accepting her needs. "Oh, your chakras. Fair enough."

“And keep in mind Discord…” Beshte said with a gentle smile. “…feel free to tell us if something we’re doing is really bugging you the next time it happens. It won’t affect our friendship either way.”

“I’ll definitely keep that in mind.” Discord vowed. “Boy it sure seems a quite a ways to go in learning friendship.”

“It’s not easy at times, but it always works out in the end.”

“Could have said it better myself.”

With all of the chaos from all of the drama that had just went down smoothed over, the party was now going on smoothly yet again. The friends all relaxed on the stage, while Discord was apologizing to his plus-one.

"I owe you an apology, Smooze. I spent the whole evening thinking about my own feelings and never thinking about yours."

To his relief, the Smooze was very forgiving as he kissed Discord's cheek.

"Well, friends! I think I may actually grow to like this being honest with your feelings and multiple-friend thing."

"I like it too." Maud said, still as stoic as ever.

"Hey, it's not a party until somepony spreads magic-resistant ooze uncontrollably over the ballroom!" Pinkie moved to hug the green glop, "Come on, Smoozinator! Let's dance!"

“Yeah come on! Let’s” Kambuni smiled at Kwato to join her to which she was more than happy to along with Fuli.

“Wait for me!”

“Right behind you girls!”

Seems like this chaotic night was all the kids needed to feel more comfortable with being at the Gala after all.

The band played upbeat jazz music that got everybody to dance. The alicorns, lions, and Twilight all looked on at the scene with Twilight looking on feeling upset with herself.

"I'm sorry, everybody. I know how much you were all looking forward to tonight, but everything just went completely crazy."

“What are you talking about?!” Simba smiled at her like she was talking nonsense. "You’ve got nothing to be sorry about."

Celestia agreed while sporting a beaming smile. "This has been the most fun Gala in years!"

"I know, it was a—What?!" Twilight was now completely shocked at what she was hearing.

Kion himself couldn’t help but feel stunned himself too. “Really, Dad, Celestia? But there was ooze all over the place! And one of the guests threatened to send somepony to another dimension!"

Celestia still felt positive about it all. "I know! Can you imagine how dull it would have been if we hadn't invited Discord?"

“But…the kids…they were all nearly harmed and eaten up by the Smooze. They should have been traumatized by what just happened tonight!”

“And they all had fun together. Plus…” Celestia gestured to the kids all dancing together with their plus-ones feeling much more happier and out-going than they were before as well as showing no fear to Discord when he joined them on the dance floor. “…it helped some of the kids to develop a more sociable liking to the Gala.”

“Plus…” Simba positively added. “Everyone is all safe and everyone is still having fun together. So no harm no foul. And to think I almost didn’t consider the idea at first.”

“Well said, Simba.” Nala said with a smile before gently nudging him to head on over to the dance floor. “And now, shall we…”

Simba smiled back. “Let’s.”

“Come on!” Celestia shouted with high enthusiasm as she nudged the still stunned alicorn onto the dance floor. “The night is still young!”

“Wait for us!” At the same time Luna moved to do the same with Kion who is also sharing his friend’s stunned shock that it all actually worked out in the end.

“Well…” Celestia offered her hoof to Twilight as the next set of music started to play.

“Shall we…” Luna did the same with Kion who both briefly looked at each other before looking back at the eagerly smiling alicorn sisters.

Both the prince and princess shrugged, accepting that a little bit of chaos wasn't so bad after all.

“Let’s.” Both stated together both accepting their hoofs just when the song began with Kion personally having this comment before the dance began.

“Now I feel like I’m dreaming.”

Discord having heard this had this to say in response before getting them to start dance.

“Kion, I don't think you quite realize what you got here!

So, why don't you just ruminate,

While I illuminate the possibilities!”

He literally illuminated while everyone danced to the tune.

“Well Ali Baba had them forty thieves

Scheherezade had a thousand tales

But masters you in luck 'cause up your sleeves

You each got a brand of magic never fails.”

Discord sang while having said thieves appear and surround everyone only for many clones to fight them all off, all with banana cream pies and confetti bombs. Next thing everyone knows is that they are all in a clown rodeo ring as opposed to the dance floor.

“You got some power in your corners now

Some heavy ammunition in your camps.”

He sang before literally starting up fireworks around them inside which moved to fly outside before making a golden oil lamp appear in Kion’s paws and had him and Twilight rub it.

"You got some punch, pizzazz, yahoo and how

See all you gotta do is rub that lamp

And I'll say…”

He appears through the little hole in a puff of yellow chaotic smoke and crossing his arms.

“Mister Kion, Miss Twilight, sir and ma’am,

What will your pleasures be?”

The two find themselves sitting in front of a table at a fancy restaurant with Discord now dressing as their waiter.

“Let me take your orders

Jot it down

You ain't never had a friend like me

Ha ha ha.”

In an instant he has food served on a silver platter. Knowing Discord, and still entertained by what he was serving that, both leaders of the Guard played along with the act as he caters to them like they are his king and queen.

“Life is your restaurant

And I'm your maitre d'

C'mon whisper what it is you want

You ain't never had a friend like me

Yes sir, we pride ourselves on service

You're the boss

The king, The queen, the shah

Say what you wish

It's yours! True dish

How about a little more Baklava?”

On top of them they find themselves literally standing on rising columns, one with an a exclusive platter of food before leaping down on one supported by a large tower of fruit to which both Pinkie and Gumba took pleasure in eating up along with all of the food Discord has catered for the Royal Family.

“Have some of column "A"

Try all of column "B"”

The two find themselves leaping on a large comfy pillow down below courtesy of Discord snapping his fingers.

“I'm in the mood to help you dudes!

You ain't never had a friend like me.”

Discord then danced now wearing a white tuxedo with a red bow tie while Pinkie, Gumba, Shauku, and Bunga all danced alongside him before performing more magical tricks.

“Can your friends do this?

Can your friends do that?

Can your friends pull this out their little hat?

Can your friends go, Poof!”

And before anyone from the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard realized it they were all facing potential suitors, both female and male dancers all dancing beside their counterparts. All past love interests and some that others have yet to meet.

“Well, looky here

Can your friends go, Abracadabra, let 'er rip

And then make the sucker disappear?

So doncha sit there slack jawed, buggy eyed

I'm here to answer all your midday prayers

You got me bona fide, certified

You got a spirit for your chare d'affaires

I got a powerful urge to help you out

So what-cha wish? I really wanna know

You got a list that's three miles long, no doubt

Well, all you gotta do is rub like so - and oh

Mister Kion, Miss Twilight, sir, ma’am, have a wish or two or three

I'm on the job, you big nabob

You ain't never had a friend, never had a friend

You ain't never had a friend like me

You ain't never had a friend like me!”

When the song ended, everyone in attendance all applauded finding he has put together an amazing musical number himself…

…well, all but one pony. A very particular and familiar light pink pony with a dark purple mane with blue streaks, wearing a formal black dress with purple gems on it and mane styled together like a beehive standing tall, along with black shades to avoid being recognized making her way through the castle undetected while everyone was distracted with a heavy saddlebag in tow.

Once she was outside she sighed in relief knowing that she just managed to obtain what she needed for the next part of her and Scar’s plan in their plot against Twilight Sparkle before teleporting away from the scene. A very crucial and shiny item that’ll play a major role in their big plan…

Author's Note

Here without saying much it is a very entertaining night as the Grand Galloping Gala returns in this episode, and pretty much this time everything went fine, well at least by Celestia and Discord's standards despite the latter running a little chaotic with his emotions due to his bitterness over not being invited to the Gala.

From a slimy mucus creature, to a little dress ripping, along with a flood with some broken windows along the way, it was quite an eventful night for the whole guest list thanks to the Lord of Chaos.

But on the positive side, Discord learned another valuable lesson, and Celestia got the night she wanted out of inviting him with the former getting to close out the night with a jazzy tune that certainly fits his style though given his way of being a "friend" might vary.

Any who, that's all I got for this week, and next up we have an episode focused on Rafiki as he deals with some new neighbors who aren't quite tolerable to his standards while teaching his apprentice (who very much happens to take a liking to their kind of fun), so look out for when I publish next time around so stay tuned...

Episode 9: Rafiki's New Neighbors

Episode 9:

Rafiki’s New Neighbors

If there is one thing that is always new for the Lion and Pony Guard to adapt to, it’s knowing to be ready for whenever nearby fires pop whenever lightning, more specifically dry lightning strikes. It has been happening quite a lot recently and it has sure been keeping the Guard up on their toes in quelling it. And that’s exactly what they have been doing with one going on right now a small distance from Pride Rock.

Kion was quick to lead the guard to stop it by quickly digging a trench into the ground to keep the flames from spreading. “Lion and Pony Guard, keep digging! Faster!”

Once again Thurston and his herd just happen to be in the crossfires, literally. “Panic and run! Panic and run!”

“Oh no, not again!” Rainbow groaned before moving to report this. “Twilight! Kion! The Zebras are stampeding! Again…” She looked aside looking very annoyed herself since that dim-witted zebra can’t go one day without prancing around in a frenzy.

“Not to worry, we’ll get to them.” Twilight reassured her flying friend. “Right now we gotta stop this fire before it spreads through the Pride Lands.” No sooner than she said it the fire had another spark that keep it growing stronger and started spreading again. “Kion…” She quickly warned her partner.

The young determined leader seeing and knowing the immediate danger was quick to set a strategy to counter this. “Reposition! Surround the flames, but stay back!”

“Fluttershy, you’re with me in calming the herd!” Twilight stated before flying after the herd with the animal-loving Pegasus quick to follow after her.

“Applejack, Beshte, we'll need a new trench.”

“You got it, Kion.”

“Can do, partner!”

The two immediately got to work on the new trench though Applejack had to limp through the process due to his injuries.

Unfortunately for the two of them, Mother Nature had plans for these two to which Ono was quick to spot out. “Kion! The fire's at the trench!”

Seeing this had Kion quick to shout after them in order to warn them. “Beshte, Applejack, get outta there!”

Upon seeing the fire is heading their way, both the Guard’s Strongest were quick to do so with Beshte being the first to pull himself up. Unfortunately, Applejack was having a more difficult effort in doing so due to his broken back legs.

“Applejack!” Rarity cried out upon seeing that she is in danger.

Rainbow upon seeing this, quickly rushed on over to her friend’s aid, just managing to whisk her away just before the fire could even touch her. For good measure she used her wings and tail to create a wind to blow it back thus helping the trench do its work in stopping the fire.

“I don’t think so!” She declared upon facing off against Mother Nature victoriously before proudly smiling at her most recent achievement.

Beshte gasped and then sighed in relief. “Phew! That was close and great save Rainbow.”

“Thanks.”

“It sure was and I tip my hat to you for that, Rainbow Dash!” Applejack did exactly that as most of the Guard regrouped with them looking relieved that the cowgirl didn’t get consumed by the flames.

“Good work, everyone.” Kion complimented before turning to the two best flyers nearby. “Ono? Rainbow? How bad's the damage?”

“We’ll see what i can see.” Ono stated before they both took off and did a quick scan together. “Not bad, Kion. Looks like the zebras still have plenty of grass left to eat.”

“The zebras!” Kion realized in alarm upon the very mention of it. “Ono! Rainbow!”

“Hapana!” Ono came to realize the same thing before managing to spot them out being slowed down by both Twilight and Fluttershy. “They're still stampeding! This way!”

Rainbow once again wasted no time in quickly catching up to them with her super speed. “Don’t worry Kion! I got this!”

Still wanting a team effort to be made, Kion led the rest of the team after them with Beshte having Applejack ride on his back so she can stick with the team.

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Meanwhile at Rafiki’s tree, the old master himself is currently training his newest Royal Mjuzi so she can someday be ready to step up to her future royal duties to give her servitude to the Royal Family.

“Now, Makini... One of the Royal Mjuzi's duties is to paint...”

Like before Makini’s enthusiasm and energy is at a Pinkie Pie level high. “The history of the Pride Lands! I know! And I really want to do a good job! But I've never painted anything before. I'm not sure how...”

Rafiki raised a finger to get her stop talking. “If you knew how, you would not need to learn. Observe!”

“Right, yes, okay. But what do I...”

“Shh.” During this moment of silence, the elder mandrill listened to what the Great Lions of the Past have to say. “Yes.”

“Ooh! You're listening to the Lions of the Past, aren't you? What are they saying Rafiki? Huh? What are they...” It took a simple glance for her to get the idea of what she’s supposed to be doing right now. “Oh... Shwari. Be calm.”

“Yes. The Lions of the Past tell me what the painting needs to be! And now I know.” He picked up an empty shell containing orange paint and then placed the finishing touches on a young lion’s tail that resembled Kiara’s.

“How did you do that?” Makini excitably asked after being amazed at what she just saw. “You make it look so easy!

Rafiki laughed in response as he handed her the paint. “It is easy! After it is hard.”

Though Makini still has yet to grasp the main idea, but never the less moves to listen to the Lions of the Past so she knows of what she needs to do in order to properly paint. “Okay...Hmm.” Just then her moment of calm and quiet atmosphere was suddenly interrupted when somebody crashed into the tree causing her to accidentally drop the whole shell of paint onto the branch. “Whoa!”

“We made it!”

“It's perfect!”

Two voices from down below excitably shouted.

“I'm not exactly sure that's what the painting needed to be.” Makini expressed her confusion to the older mandrill.

“Most likely it is not. It seems we have visitors. Hmm.”

Rafiki turned his attention outside to see there are three Pride Landers who have wandered their way on over here. One of them is an elephant who’s tusks are growing in, another is a white-furred monkey with a gray-colored head and streaks in his head hair, and the other is an antelope. From the looks of it, they were all old and big enough to act like teenagers and were all very energetic and curious fellows.

“Three wild guys like us can really be at home here!” The monkey stated on behalf of the group.

“Indeed.” The antelope agreed as he slammed his slowly growing horns into the tree again. “My horns love this tree!”

The elephant happily expressed to his monkey friend while tapping him behind his back. “Who is living the good life now, huh? I am. I am!”

The monkey realizing what he was doing laughed. “Oh, yes. That is funny because you are tapping me and yet when I turn around no one is there!”

At that moment Rafiki leaped down from his tree to greet them. “Who are you three? So young and full of life.”

The elephant moved to speak up on behalf on the trio. First himself then the antelope and then the monkey. “Name's Chama, this is Mzaha and Furaha.”

Then they did a group chant and dance together. “Chama cha Mzaha na Furaha! Umph!” The elephant butt-bumped his friends which sent them flying backwards for a small distance but never the less they were all unharmed and happily laughing together.

Then the monkey explained why there are here. “And good news for you, my friend. We fun guys are living here now!”

Makini smiled at the idea, but Rafiki did not share the young girl’s enthusiasm in the manner. To him he finds their antics very disruptive with what he needs in order to properly train his successor.

“Living the dream, I'd say.” The antelope happily laughed in agreement alongside the others as Chama snorted dirt from his trunk around them.

With everything he has seen so far, Rafiki had already made up his mind to the trio. “Live here? Ha! You cannot live here. I need quiet to train my apprentice.”

“They won't bother me. They seem nice.” Makini insisted otherwise as she leaped down from the tree to stand by Rafiki’s side.

“Makini?”

“Hey, yeah! We are nice! Nice and fun! Just like you Rafiki!” Chama said while playfully ruffling the elder baboon’s hair.

“We see you around the Pride Lands talking with King Simba...” Furaha added before imitating Rafiki. “Ha ha! I am wise, and yet I have good time!”

“Indeed!” Mzaha agreed while getting in his face albeit a little too closely. “And that's why we want to be your neighbors!”

Makini was quick to give them a chance. “Come on, Rafiki.” She eagerly implored of him. “It might be fun. Please. Please. Please?”

Truthfully he knew deep in his heart that it’ll be very disruptive to Makini’s training, but given with how she really likes their company, he decided it probably wouldn’t hurt to give leeway for compromise in this regard. Maybe it won’t be as bad as he thinks. “Eh... Very well.”

“Yay!” All of the kids with Makini included all cheered together.

Rafiki was quick to tell the trio of the catch. “As long as you are quiet!” They all stopped cheering. “Makini must focus on her training. She is painting for the Royal Family tonight.”

Makini spoke highly surprised of being bestowed of this great honor so soon. “I am?”

“You must be ready.”

“Ha!” Chama laughed thinking it’ll be easy. “You won't even know we're here.

“Good.” Rafiki is pleased that they now have an understanding before guiding his apprentice back up the tree. “Come, Makini.”

It only took turning their backs when Chama suddenly burped loudly to draw their attention back at them. “Sorry, won't happen again.” The kids all laughed together with the mandrills never the less climbing back up the tree.

Question is, can they really behave themselves to earn their right to live alongside their new neighbors?

Meanwhile, the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard have both managed to catch up to the zebra herd, just after both Fluttershy and Twilight have just managed to get them to stop panicking and running away. It took quite some magic on Twilight’s part along with a lot of gentle calming on Fluttershy’s part to get them to stop, but they did it and they were all calmed down for the time being.

“Zebras, the fire's out!”

“You can stop running!”

They gently insisted before they could get all spooked yet again.

Upon arriving Kion was quick to find out the source that spooked them. “Can you tell me what you saw when the fire started?”

“Well, I saw the grass...” Thurston began.

“Because you were grazing?” Fuli finished and asked with a “figures.” look on her face.

“Why, yes.” Thurston smiled widely. “Then I saw a big flash of bright light!”

“Wait.” Ono realized. “I actually know what he's talking about. Lightning must have started the fire!”

“Lightning?” Beshte spoke rather confused. “But there was no rain.”

“Yeah!” Pinkie agreed. “It hasn’t rained here in months! How can there be a fire if lightning strikes and there’s no rain?”

“That's because it's dry lightning.” Twilight replied to the ongoing pink pony’s confusion. “It happens whenever to doesn’t bring rain.”

“Quite common in the dry season, really.” Ono added.

Now Pinkie realized. “Ooh! Dry lightning! I thought we were talking about Rainbow’s lightning from Nightmare Night.”

Now it was Bunga’s turn to laugh and remember. “Remember when Princess Luna zapped Rainbow with her own lightning.”

“How could I forget! That was hilarious!”

“Ha, ha, ha, very funny!” Rainbow sarcastically remarked with crossed arms as she floated over their heads with the temptation to actually use some of the clouds above her to give them a good scare right above him only to refrain to avoid causing a panic with a false alarm.

None of the less all that mattered to Kion was that the danger had passed and that they are all safe once again. “Well there's nothing to worry about now. You can all go back to grazing.”

“Fabulous.” He started to head off until Kion called out to them again.

“Uh, your grazing grounds are this way.”

“Oh. Right.” As always Thurston looked clueless of where exactly are their grazing grounds.

Seeing they are going to need assistance, Twilight turned to the two flyers that knew their way around the Pride Lands. “Ono? Rainbow? Better show them home.” She noticed that Rainbow wasn’t fully paying attention. “Rainbow!”

“Huh?”

“Can you see to it along with Ono that the zebras know the way home?”

“Sure thing.”

“Ono?” Kion asked.

“Affirmative.” He flies ahead alongside Rainbow. “After us, zebras!”

Thurston was quick to follow their lead. “You heard the bird and Pegasus. After them.”

“Zebras.” Fuli muttered to herself exasperated at their leader’s stupidity.

“They’re always having a knack to getting themselves in trouble.” Kyoga remarked sharing the cheetah’s annoyance.

“As always.”

Just then they heard a familiar voice coming right beside them.

“Ah, yes. Much better!” Rafiki said to himself as he meditated on the nearby tree right above them thus surprising everyone with his presence.

“Rafiki.” Kion spoke happy to see him yet still highly surprised. “I thought you were training Makini for the painting ceremony tonight.”

“Makini is training. I am taking a break from the noise.” He replied all with opening his eyes.

“What noise?” Rarity curiously asked.

“The noise that is a young elephant, monkey and antelope.” Rafiki replied while opening his eyes with a hint of irritation in his tone. “They are now living next to my tree!“

“Next to your tree?” Applejack spoke sounding surprised herself. “Wow, talk about straying from the herd."

“Quite an observation, darling.” Rarity agreed before pressing the question. “Why aren't they with their herds?”

“Excellent question, young unicorn. And one I could not ask. They do not stop talking. Except for when Makini talks!”

Pinkie eagerly hopped up and down upon hearing this. “Ooh! Ooh! Like me!”

“Yes, Pinkie.” Rarity moved to gently urge her to calm down before she can blast everyone’s ears off again. “We get it. Oh and uh, please don’t.”

“Okay.” She happily complied.

“Anyways…” Kion said moving ahead to focus on Rafiki’s problem. “…We'd better find out why they're not with their herds.”

Rafiki was quick to support that decision as he leaped down and grabbed his staff so he can lead them back to his tree. “Yes! And perhaps you and the Lion and Pony Guard can take them somewhere else.“

Back at Rafki’s tree, everyone arrived to see the kids all chanting and cheering.

“Bug! Bug! Bug!”

The Guard just arrived in time to witness Furaha stuffing his face full of colorful bugs and grubs from under the rock.

“Ugh.” Rarity gagged once more at what she was seeing again.

Once Furaha stuffed as many bugs he can hold in his mouth, he swallowed them.

“And Furaha beats his bug eating record!” Chama declared as they all cheered yet again in celebration of their friend’s personal achievement.

Hearing and seeing this sparked Bunga’s interest. “Bug eating record? Wait till you see how many I can eat.” He quickly ran over to prove it to them.

And that was enough for both Kion and Twilight to see why Rafiki is having issue with this.

“I think I understand your problem.” The Leader of the Lion Guard said.

“Yeah.” Fuli remarked upon getting the idea too. “You have three Bungas.” She briefly turns and sees Bunga chowing down on the bugs and grubs. “Well, four now.”

At that moment Pinkie appeared with a cake as big as the one the Cakes made for the cake contest in Canterlot. “If you think that’s something, check this out, kiddies!”

Much like before, she managed to stuff the whole thing in one bite thus appearing as large as a giant because of it.

“Wow!” The kids all said in awe before all cheering in amazement.

“Make that five.” Twilight said to Fuli who nodded in agreement.

Rafiki upon seeing that Makini isn’t doing what she is supposed to be doing moved to question her. “Makini? Is this practicing?”

“I was just taking a little break. For inspiration! But now that that's over I can really, really focus on painting!” Makini sheepishly replied before climbing back up the tree so she can do so.

Knowing these three teens, Beshte moved to greet and ask them. “Hey Chama. Mzaha. Furaha. Why aren't you guys with your herds?”

Chama was a little hesitant but replied the best to his ability. “Uh... Short story, Beshte. They kicked us out. You know how it goes.”

After Pinkie had returned to normal size, she shockingly spoke up herself. “Kicked out? By your own herds? Why?”

“Beats...” Chama burps mid-sentence. “…Me.”

Next Furaha was quick to join in on the burp talk. “Do not know.”

“Nope.” Mzaha burped in agreement.

“Oh! Oh!” Bunga eagerly chimed in. “I can burp too!” He proceeded to release a weak one.

Pinkie upon seeing it feeling she can do better than all of them combined. “You call that a burp?! Watch this!” She proceeded to release a huge one that created a giant shockwave that was felt all the way to Canterlot and Ponyville.

Princess Celestia who was currently meeting with assistant and the delegates nearly stumbled with her crown briefly falling out of place. She was quick to readjust it before turning her attention to the direction of where it came from.

“Something the matter your highness?” Her assistant asked.

“Nope.” She shook her head in response. “Just something the Lion and Pony Guard can handle.” She turned back to the delegates gesturing them to the conference room. “Shall we?”

Back in the Pride Lands, everyone found themselves surrounded by a big scorched part of Earth from where Pinkie unleashed her huge burp and the pink pony herself smiled with squeeing glee and awe-inspired kids.

Fuli was quick to express her disgust with what she had just seen. “Ugh. Seriously?”

“I know right.” Rarity fanned her nose from the smell they left from their most recent burping contest. She then turned to both Twilight and Kion while pinching her nose. “And I think I have a pretty good idea why they were kicked out.”

Fluttershy however insisted otherwise. “I'm sure it's some kinda misunderstanding.“

“Yeah.” Beshte agreed. “Our herds are probably worried about you.”

“We can take you back to your families. If that's what you want.” Twilight kindly offered.

Rafiki was quick to want them to take them up on their offer. “Yes, yes. Back to their families. Being with your herd is part of your role in the Circle of Life!” He also gently advised with words of wisdom.

“Circle of Life?” Chama realized upon taking his wisdom. “Whoa! In that case, we better go back!”

“You said it.”

“Indeed.”

“But, uh…” Chama also realized and started to feel sad. “…guess that means we three gotta say good-bye, huh?

“But without you two fun guys I will just be one fun guy...” The monkey equally shared the somber feeling of this breakup.

At that moment both Ono and Rainbow Dash have arrived after having completed their task.

“Kion, Twilight, the zebras are all home safe!” Ono reported.

“It wasn’t easy listening to that zebra talk the whole way, but it was all doable!” Rainbow added while masking the fact of having to cover her ears to drum out the zebra’s babbling.

“Great work, Ono, Rainbow Dash.” Kion complimented before Twilight moved to tell them of what they are going to do now. “Now I need you, Pinkie, Applejack, and Beshte to take Furaha back to his troop.”

“Affirmative.”

“You got it, Kion.”

Rainbow started to follow after before being stopped by the sound of Twilight’s voice. “Not you Rainbow Dash. You’re with us while we and Bunga take Chama back to Ma Tembo's herd.”

“Okay!”

Then Kion turned to the others. “Fuli, you Rarity, Fluttershy, and Kyoga got Mzaha. He then spoke to all three teens. “Okay, you three. Come on. Let's take you back home.”

Knowing that this is the end, the kids all shared their signature greeting one last time. “Chama cha Mzaha na Furaha... Umph.” They all laughed weakly and put up some smiles albeit forced and weak before going their separate ways.

“Okay, then. See ya around, pals.” Chama called out before leaving with Kion, Twilight, Rainbow, and Bunga.

For the team heading towards the monkey troops…

“I bet your troop is gonna be happy to see you, Furaha.” Beshte happily expressed.

“Happier than when they saw me leave?” Furaha hopefully asked.

“Of course, silly!” Pinkie happily stated while bouncing beside him. “Why, I can picture them all looking super-worried and wondering where you have been since you left. And once they see you they’ll all be super-excited and want to throw a big super-duper fun welcome home party!” She instantly had her party cannon set off to emphasize the potential excitement coming their way. She smiled grandly and squeed in response.

“I’m pretty sure, things will work out.” Applejack assured while limping his way across though still felt some stings of pain from his fractured legs. “They always do.”

Just then Ono spotted what they are looking for ahead. “Hey, Furaha! I see your troop in those trees!”

It was Furaha’s home, where the nearby trees were filled with his herd straight ahead and the returning monkey was already whooping with excitement.

“Ready or not, here comes fun!” While he was running he spotted a familiar senior monkey who serves as the herd leader. “Tumbili! Tumbili!”

The elderly monkey was eating his fruit in peace groaned upon hearing his voice. “Furaha.”

Just then Furaha joined him up on his tree wrapping his arms around him to greet him like they best buds. “You were thinking, "When is that fun guy coming back?" Well, here I am!” Tumbili rolled his eyes in response before the energetic monkey moved to greet everyone else. “Cousins! Who here missed Furaha?”

Before he could ask, he sees part of the Guard approaching him.

“Hey, Tumbili.” The Lion Guard’s Strongest greeted. “Can you believe Furaha was living at Rafiki's Tree? He thought he had been kicked out of the troop!”

Tumbili while all polite and smiles, had to say otherwise and that there really is a good reason why he isn’t a part of their herd. “Well, uh... You see, Beshte. It is the Monkey way to, uh...”

Applejack figuring out what he is trying to say finished with. “...to cut someone out when he or she causes trouble in the herd?”

Seeing that the honest farm pony is spot on, Tumbili had no choice but to relent and admit. “Exactly…” He replied before moving to explain it to the confused hippo. “…because in case if you haven’t noticed and if he hadn’t fully told you why, that’s because he has been kicked out, for a good reason.”

“But why?” Pinkie asked feeling shocked herself alongside Beshte. “What possible reason could you have to feel kicking him is okay?”

Tumbili turned to Ono and Applejack with the former only having this to say. “Don’t ask. Trust us.”

“Anyways…” Applejack spoke up to get Pinkie and Beshte understand what Tumbili is trying to say. “…I’d think what he is trying to say is that Furaha’s antics aren’t exactly appreciated to be deemed acceptable around here.”

“Yes, thank you honest Applejack.” Tumbili now felt relieved he can now speak his mind about Furaha now. “Surely if you had a pony like her…” He gestured to Pinkie. “…around all of the time playing around with her silliness, surely you would understand why I had to send Furaha away.”

“I understand.” Beshte accepted that reason now fully grasping of what he is trying to say given of what it was like when Pinkie clones were causing an endless rampage across Ponyville. “But can you at least try to give him a chance? I’m sure he won’t cause you anymore trouble.”

Initially Tumbili wanted to say no but after seeing that the Guard is through and through friends with the real well-being Pinkie Pie, he relented with a sigh. “Yes. Thank you for bringing Furaha home.”

Beshte smiled in response. “I knew you'd welcome him back!”

Before turning to leave Applejack piped up to her pink friend with this before she could get started. “Pinkie…please don’t.” Pinkie’s mane deflated slightly. “Let’s do the polite and neighborly thing in giving them so space so they can properly reacquainted with each other.”

“Okay!” Pinkie thankfully accepted that. “Enjoy your family.” Pinkie cheerfully called after the monkey before bouncing away.

“Bye, Furaha!” Ono called after them before flying alongside the rest of the team.

No sooner than they left, Furaha was already having a chaotic time of his life.

“Who is having fun now?” He happily asked while yanking on a couple monkey’s tails oblivious to the fact he is causing them pain.

“Stop it, Furaha!” One of them shouted while trying to avoid having his tail literally yanked off to no avail.

Meanwhile at the antelope grazing grounds…

“I don't care what the Lion and Pony Guard wants us to do. We aren't taking Mzaha back.” Bupi assertively stated.

“But he's one of your kind.” Fuli insisted in the same tone.

“And he was sent away for good reason.” Bupu stood by his stance while turning his back on the girls. “And don’t even think about trying to pull those baby blue eyes on me, Rarity. You too Fluttershy.”

Rarity frowned behind his back while Fluttershy looked on disappointed in response.

“Okay, look, darling.” Rarity moved to try to gently reason with him. “I understand Mzaha might be a little...” She turns and sees said antelope laughing while banging his short antlers against the tree. “...different. But shouldn't he be with his family?”

Bupu looked on unconvinced still asserting by his decision.

Fuli sighed irritably before making another push to get Bupu to change his mind. “Take him back, Bupu!”

Bupu still had his head turned away. “Don't feel like it.”

Remembering what Fluttershy told her along with knowing that Fluttershy is silently imploring her to do so, she moved for a more polite approach. The one that got the two to have an understanding. “Please?”

And like before that was enough for him to reconsider at least once more. “Ah, yes. Very well. It never hurts to be polite!” He turned to said antelope laughing and playing around. “Mzaha, you are back with the herd!”

“Oh, goodie, I'm back! I'm back!” He happily expressed while prancing around.

“Great! Thanks, Bupu!” Instantly Fuli took off with her task at hand complete.

“It really means a lot to us.” Rarity complimented before leaving.

“Thanks.” Kyoga added before following suit.

“Good luck.” Fluttershy said before following after the others.

Much like the monkey back home, Mzaha wasted no time in driving everyone crazy with his antics. “Who wants to play tag? You? Or you?” He proceeds to stab every antelope in the rear with his horns. “I know you do!”

Bupu watching this sighed, just knowing that he’s going to have to re-live the headache he caused everyone all over again.

And at the elephant herd…

“I know how important family is to you elephants, Ma Tembo.” Kion said trying to be as understanding as possible about all of this.

“That's true, Kion. But Chama was a disruption to the herd.” The elephant leader replied likewise with her point quickly made when said elephant blew sand through his trunk again and right by Bunga much to his delight and the elephant leader’s eye-rolling annoyance.

“That was Un-bunga-lieveable! Let's do it again!”

“Bunga!” Both Kion and Twilight called after him with the latter looking more sternly at him with a glare to tell him that what he is encouraging is not helping them at all.

“Yeah, quit it, Bunga.” Chama chuckled while trying to play innocent.

But Twilight wasn’t buying it. “Chama, that includes you too!” Chama quickly wiped off the smirk he had on his face. “Anyways, Ma Tembo, while we understand your reasons of not wanting to put up with him. Think maybe you can at least give Chama one more chance?”

Ma Tembo sighed before relenting. “Only because it's you two who are asking it.” She then turns to the young elephant to let him know of it. “Chama, you are welcome to return if you promise to behave as part of the herd. But this is your last chance.”

“Ma Tembo, you have my word.” He promised in a rather nasally sounding voice and drawing a few eyebrows from the alicorn princess herself, being no stranger of knowing when someone is lying.

With that Kion was pleased. “Great. See ya, Chama.”

And so was Bunga. “Yep! See ya, wouldn't wanna be...” He winds up burping mid-sentence while Rainbow moved to tickle the young elephant with a white feather. “…ya.”

Chama laughed in response before accidentally snorting dirt that was in his trunk right onto Ma Tembo and Twilight’s face. Unfortunately Twilight was unable to have her magic work quick enough to stop it. Rainbow upon seeing this was barely resisting the urge to laugh.

The two looked on unimpressed and completely annoyed with the alicorn giving the half lion-alicorn a glare of her own that makes it clear that Chama is already making her regret even asking to give him a chance.

“Uh, maybe one more chance?” Kion asked once more to which he thankfully gets when the older elephant nodded in response before wisely leaving along with Bunga who had to resist laughing at Twilight’s expense from past experience.

Unfortunately Rainbow couldn’t resist laughing herself with tears coming out of her eyes. “See ya later, dirt face!” Suddenly while in the midst of her laughing she is yanked by the tail courtesy of Twilight’s magic and is now dangling upside down as she is floating away. “Yeouch!” Upon seeing the glare Twilight was giving her she immediately and wisely shut up until they regrouped back in front of Pride Rock knowing that she deserved it.

Upon regrouping, they all reported of their success together knowing that they are home now.

First Fuli. “Well, Mzaha is back with the antelopes.”

Then Beshte. “And Furaha's home with his troops.”

And then Kion. “Good. Ma Tembo took Chama back too.”

“I bet they're all happy to be with their families again.” Beshte happily expressed.

Bunga agreed but couldn’t help but think about them already. “Yeah. I'll miss 'em though. Not everyone in the Pride Lands can burp their name. It's a talent.”

“It sure is.” Pinkie agreed as she briefly lamented on it too.

“I know…” Rarity not one to support their unusually odd talents sympathized with her friends of having to say goodbye to them for the time being. “…but it is for the best, darlings.”

Just then Kion spotted something close by Pride Rock and looked very alarmed upon seeing it. “Hevi Kabisa... Is that what I think it is?”

Both Ono and Rainbow flew up to get a better look.

“Dry lightning!”

“And it's heading this way!”

Upon seeing the imminent danger Kion was quick to lead the team into taking action. “Lion and Pony Guard, we've gotta make sure nobody's near where that lightning's gonna hit.”

“Or else we’re going to have more casualties to worry about.” Twilight seriously added.

“We should check the watering hole first. It's not safe to be near water in a lightning storm!” Ono advised.

“Great idea, Ono.” Twilight quickly agreed with the suggestion before she and Kion lead the team on over there.

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Meanwhile back where the monkeys live together…

“Where is the monkey? Where did he go?” Furaha laughed while annoying the heck out of two monkeys who trying to help groom each other.

“Quit it, Furaha.”

“Yeah.”

Just then he came face to face with the troop’s leader who is already annoyed with his antics. “We don't wanna play your games.”

Furaha sighed in disappointment. “You are not fun guys.” But then he smiled as he reminded himself of something before leaving. “But I know two who are! I must be with my own kind. Bye!”

“His own kind?” Tumbili asked the others pretty confused himself.

"Well at least he's out of our hair once again." One of the two other monkeys commented in relief upon seeing him leave.

"You said it!" His partner commented in agreement.

At the antelope grazing grounds Mzaha was already following suit by getting on the other antelopes nerves with his playful antics.

“I'm gonna tag you!” He stated while forcing some of the herd to move to get away from him.

Upon hearing and seeing this Bupu was quick to intercept to stop him. “Mzaha! Enough! You're disturbing everyone's grazing!” He sternly scolded.

“But, Bupu, I'm just...”

While understanding his desire to have fun still had to be firm with him in the matter. “Mzaha... Please. Antelopes are not...silly creatures!”

Regardless Mzaha did feel truly bothered before moving to leave. “No matter. I know some silly creatures! Just like me!”

Bupu scoffed in response to what he described their kind. “Silly creature.” But then upon seeing that he is leaving them be he took the time to say to himself before walking off. "Oh well, not our problem anymore."

In no time at all, Furaha and Mzaha have managed to find and regroup with each other, having already missed each other already.

“I guess we fun guys are not meant to live with our herds!” Furaha expressed to his friend still feeling put out and sticking out like sore thumbs.

“I don't understand their problem.” Mzaha expressed still confused himself. “I really like us!”

And much to their luck, they managed to find their third friend eating leaves from a nearby tree all by myself.

“Chama!” Furaha excitably greeted.

“Furaha! Mzaha!”

“You left too, Chama?”

“Yeah. My herd cannot take a joke, and boy have I tried. I mean, sheesh!”

“We three fun guys need to stick together from now on.” Furaha stated on what is a must going forward.

Mzaha couldn’t have said it any better. ”Indeed!”

Three of a Kind

While singing together and expressing how fun it is to be together like their own family they took pleasure in pulling pranks on the other Pride Landers and some of the visiting ponies including Timon, Pumbaa, Thurston, Laini, Twiga, and Makuu.

“So! Who says we go back to our tree?” Mzaha proposed.

The others were quick to agree with that idea.

“Yeah!”

“Let's go!”

And so the three jokesters all made their way back to Rafiki’s tree unaware of the dry lightning storm that is nearby.

Meanwhile, Makini with the peace and quiet her mentor wanted around is now able to concentrate and prepare for the upcoming ritual tonight.

“Uh-huh. Uh-huh!” By following his advice in listening to the Lions of the Pride Lands Past she was able to paint with ease…

“Home sweet home!”

…at least until a familiar voice shouted and disrupted them both with Chama suddenly crashed into Rafiki’s tree again.

“No, no. I say we sleep here, and groom over there.”

“Yeah, it has a nice flow to it.” Furaha agreed just when then exasperated mandrill came to spot them from above again.

“You three! Why are you not with your herds?”

“We just don't belong there.” Mzaha explained just when Rafiki leaped down to them. “It's not us, it's them.”

Makini took pity on them. “Oh, that's so sad.”

But Rafiki on the contrary still remained firm against the idea of them living near his tree. “Sad it may be. But you three cannot stay here. Makini must learn to paint. It is part of her role in the Circle of Life!”

“Oh. I guess it is.” Makini realized herself. “I never really thought about it that way before. I mean, I've thought about it, but I haven't thought about it.”

With that said Rafiki moved to usher them away from here. “Now, go. There are many good trees in the Pride Lands! Make your own home. Just not here.”

“Well, uh, if you say so Rafiki.” Chama reluctantly agreed and accepted his reasons even though nobody really liked it in the slightest.

“Maybe he is not such a fun guy after all.” Furaha whispered to Chama before moving to leave with his friends.

“Bye, Rafiki, Makini. See you around the Pride Lands.” Mzaha said while at the tail end of the group.

Feeling pleased that they at least respect his wishes, Rafiki moved to climb back up the tree, with his sympathetic apprentice looking on still feeling that a compromise could have worked out.

To her she understands why Rafiki finds their behavior disruptive but deep down they are quite a fun pack to have hang around. “If only there was a way that we can all be happy together…” She thought before climbing back up the tree.

Elsewhere, dry lightning has struck nearby the Pride Lands watering hole thus spooking the elephants and hippos who were all having a drink together there.

“What was that?” Zito gasped in alarm upon hearing it.

Next thing everyone there knew they heard Fuli shouting out to them in an alarmed tone of voice. “Everyone! Get away from the water! There's a lightning storm!”

Though everyone still failed to completely grasp why.

“Lightning storm? No...” Zito said in disbelief.

“There isn't any rain!” One of the hippos pointed out.

Ono and Rainbow the next to arrive were quick to clarify.

“That's because it's dry lightning! There isn't any rain!”

“In other words you all need to get out of here now!”

“Follow me!” Kion commanded of them before leading the way.

But just before any of them could even move an inch from the water, lightning struck right in front of them, causing fire to surround them inside the watering hole area.

“Fire!”

“Oh, no!”

The hippos gasped.

“We need a way out.” Twilight shouted before turning to both Rainbow and Ono who quickly spotted another opening to the side.

“Over here.” Rainbow shouted.

“Go!” Fuli moved to lead everyone on over there. But unfortunately another lightning strike was quick to cut them off again while very nearly making contact with Rainbow Dash.

“Yikes! Too late!” Rainbow yelped before sprinted back towards the pack in fright from going through a near-death experience right on the spot. “We're trapped!”

“Zito, can you spray us a path out?” Kion asked of the gasping elephant who was quick to give it a try. But unfortunately for them, with the water they have wasn’t enough to clear an opening. “There's not enough water.”

“Oh, my…” Fluttershy whimpered at their predicament.

At the same time, the thunder it produced could be heard all the way towards Rafiki’s tree. By then, Makini had just finished her latest painting along with a single spark occurring nearby just outside of the tree.

“So, what do you think?”

Rafiki was liking what he was seeing. “Ah! I think...” But suddenly his train of thought got interrupted when he smelled something off. “Hmm.”

“Oh. Uh…” Makini was now confused thinking this is part of her mentor’s thought process. “…do we need to smell the painting too?“

Upon spotting the source his eyes widen in alarm. “Not the painting, Makini. Smoke!” He corrected while leading his apprentice on over to where it is coming from.

“Smoke?”

When they looked down they saw it is indeed smoke, and that’s not the only thing in front of them.

“Fire!” Rafiki exclaimed upon seeing that it is surrounding them.

“Oh, no!” Makini gasped. “Rafiki, we're trapped! What do we do?”

Back at the watering hole, both Ono and Rainbow have managed to spot it from afar.

“Hapana! Rafiki's tree!”

“It's on fire!”

“Heyvi Kabisa!” Kion exclaimed in horror. “Are Rafiki and Makini okay?”

The Guard’s Keenest of Sight tried but is finding it very difficult to spot them. ”I can't see! There's too much smoke!”

Knowing that time is at the essence, Twilight decided to make a quick decision in ensuring they at least have some help on their way. “Rainbow Dash! Take Pinkie Pie! Fly on over there!”

Rainbow was unsure about that call. “But Twilight, what about the rest of you?!”

Twilight firmly insisted by her decision. “We’ll be fine! Just go now!”

Still confused, but none of the less, Rainbow obeyed her command while hoisting Pinkie away from the watering hole.

“Twilight…?” Kion was now confused on what she is thinking to get them all out of this and save everyone until she directed her attention to the nearest and biggest rock while motioning her head towards her own and Rarity’s horns. “Got it!” Turning to the Lion Guard’s Strongest. “We need that rock, Beshte! We've gotta get everyone outta here and go help Rafiki!”

“Rarity!” Twilight called out to her. “Time for the fire and water dance!”

“Got it!” Rarity immediately took action and started making water appear with her magic at the same time Twilight started drawing up the fire that is surrounding them.

Upon connecting with each other, the two traded off control with fire and water while slowly dissipating the flames and tapping horns together. By the way they were dancing, they were essentially in sync in performing the tango together they were effectively putting out the fire together.

At the same time, both Makini and Rafiki were both trapped and left completely helpless unable to do anything about the fire surrounding the tree including a means of escape.

“Help! Help!”

“This is not good!”

Just then she spotted someone up ahead. “Someone's coming!” She happily expressed upon seeing Pinkie and Rainbow Dash coming their way.

“Is it the Lion and Pony Guard?” Rafiki asked.

“No!”

While it’s true both Rainbow and Pinkie are coming, they aren’t the only ones as they both found three figures coming their direction at the exact same time.

“Hang on, you two!” Chama bravely assured while running alongside his companions.

“We're coming to save you.”

“And that is no joke.”

With Chama using his trunk to snort up all of the nearby dirt to clear an opening and Mzaha digging a trench with his small horns, they were all able to make progress together.

“This would be fun if there was not a fire.” Furaha expressed while he Chamba followed after Mzaha while managing to get to both Rafiki and Makini.

“Want a ride?” Chama offered to which the two were more than happy to take up.

Rafiki leaped onto the elephant while Makini leaped onto the antelope so they can escort them to safety.

But when Makini was riding away from the fire, she accidentally dropped her bakora staff. “No! My bakora!” She wanted to go back for it but by then it was already too late.

“You will find another staff.” Rafiki assured her of what’s really important now. “But another you? That cannot be found!” He then turned to his saviors with great gratitude towards them. “Chama. Mzaha. Furaha. Thank you.”

“Yes, thank you so much.” Makini expressed equally grateful for what they just did. “How did you know we were in trouble?”

“I got big ears. They hear things.” Chama answered while moving them for a bit.

“Come on, Chama!” Mzaha urgently said to his friend. “We have to save Rafiki's tree!”

“You got it, pals! It is his home after all!”

Looking on, Rafiki couldn’t help but feel impressed and proud of the kids for what they are doing. And he is not the only one feeling the same way…

From above both ponies who have arrived on the scene were both left very impressed before they both got to work in helping put out the flames surrounding Rafiki’s tree.

“Hang on!”

“We’re coming!”

They both shouted before quickly flying in.

Once Pinkie had swallowed up a gallon of blue cold-looking candies she had in store, Rainbow was ready to use her super speed to put it good use. By flying around the tree as fast as she can while Pinkie breathed her ice cold breath onto the fire, they were able to quickly put out the flames with ease alongside the kids continuing to create a trench and brush dirt in the fire’s direction.

Meanwhile back at the now dry watering hole both Twilight and Rarity have performed the tango long enough to allow Beshte to move the large rock up against the hill to allow everyone to escape.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Now over here, quick!” Kion instructed everyone while leading them away from the fire.

“This way! Move along! Let's go! Let's go! Let's go!” Bunga ushered while running alongside them with everyone else following suit.

Once everyone was safe, Kion moved to position himself right in front of the watering hole. “Lion and Pony Guard! Get everyone behind me!”

“Get back!” Fuli commanded of everyone as Kion prepares to unleash the Roar to finish the fire off.

Upon seeing what he is about to do, Twilight quickly produced a magical shield to protect herself and Rarity as Kion unleashed the Roar of the Elders to put out the fire while the two twirled like a spinning top together. Once Kion was done roaring, the magic surrounding both ponies cleared up as the two twirled together before making one final pose together after having finished their dance. Rarity hoisting the remains of the dry lightning fire in the shape of a red rose in her magical grasp along with an actual red rose in her mouth while biting the green stem, while being hoisted up in the air by Twilight with a single front fore hoof.

Everyone all cheered for their tango with the two ponies taking a bow together, Kion’s Roar, along with the team’s successful efforts in saving them.

“Thank you all. You saved us.” Zito gratefully expressed.

“And great tango, girls.” The female hippo complimented leaving both girls to blush humbly in response.

Even with the danger passed for now, Kion still had to insist the urge for them to keep playing things safe for the time-being. “Until we know the lightning's over, stay away from water.” Now that they are safe, now they can focus on the other ongoing danger. “Lion and Pony Guard. We have to check to make sure Makini, Rafiki and his tree are safe!”

By the time they arrived, they have witnessed that everything is now under control.

“Rafiki, Makini! Are you okay?” Kion asked to make sure they didn’t suffer any major burns.

“Fine. We are fine.” Rafiki positively replied.

“Not only did Rainbow and Pinkie Pie help put out the fires, Chama, Furaha and Mzaha saved us!” Makini happily added.

“Really?” Kyoga was surprised to hear this.

“The three Bungas / Pinkie’s?” Fuli equally expressed her surprise upon hearing this too.

“Yep!” Rainbow confirmed as she flew on over to them while dropping Pinkie to the ground. “They sure did.”

Ono took a look and saw that it isn’t an exaggeration upon seeing them put out the last of the fires. “Look. She's right!”

Upon extinguishing the last of the flames, the kids all cheered victoriously together.

“Great job, everyone!” Kion complimented them all before turning to the alicorn who winked at him. Kion smiled back knowing that she truly did make a good call in having Rainbow and Pinkie go after Rafiki’s tree to save it.

“My tree. It is saved!” Rafiki happily laughed. “Thank you, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie.” He then turned once more to his saviors. “And you three. There are no words.”

The trio all felt nothing of it like true humble heroes.

“Hey, no problem, Rafiki.”

“We're just glad you and your tree are safe.”

Upon briefly looking at Makini, he came to offer a compromise to show his gratitude towards them. “Yes. My tree. You three. If my tree feels like home to you, then you should stay. But perhaps you could be a little quieter?”

Chama was very grateful at the offer given to them. “Hey, what an offer, Rafiki. And thank you.”

“We do think you're a fun guy.” Furaha complimented. “That's why we originally wanted to live near your tree.”

“But then we found a nice tree over by Big Springs.” Chama then added. “We can be as loud as we want. It feels like home.”

“Yep. It's perfect for our family.” Mzaha also added.

“Your family?” Beshte curiously asked.

“Maybe the reason why we don't fit in with our own herds is 'cause we already have a family.” Chama replied before they all turned to so they can see eye to eye together.

“Each other!” Once more the trio performed their signature greeting to which Twilight giggled at since it reminds her of the signature greeting she shares with Cadance. “Chama cha Mzaha na Furaha! Umph!”

“Makes sense to me.” Kion smiled very understanding of their decision.

“Couldn’t have said it better!” Applejack said with great pride.

“It's beautiful.” Beshte sweetly complimented.

“Aww!” Pinkie then had ocular gushers spew from her big bright blue eyes unable to keep it all inside her to which Rarity was quick to produce an umbrella to shield herself from her friend’s unstoppable crying. Feeling sympathetic for her she handed her friend a box of tissues to which she was quick to accept.

Still wanting to prove his gratitude towards the heroic trio, he moved to give them a special invite. “Well, then at least be my guest at tonight's ceremony for the Royal Family.

The kids were all gracious enough to accept that invitation.

“Yeah!”

“We would love to!”

“Thanks!”

“The ceremony!” Makini realized now feeling suddenly anxious upon being reminded of it. “I hope I'm ready!”

Rafiki calmly remained confident in his apprentice’s ability while placing an assuring hand on her back. “As do I, young one.”

Later that evening, everyone in the Pride Lands and most of the Ponyville residence have all gathered together to witness this memorable occasion.

“As you all know, it is the duty of every Royal Mjuzi to keep the history of the Pride Lands alive.” King Simba announced to the crowd. “Today Makini will take yet another step in that role.” After finishing his opening speech he turned to hand the reigns to his Royal Mjuzi. “Rafiki?”

“Ready?” He asked while handing her the paint she needs to complete her special task.

“I think so.” While deep down still a little nervous, upon spotting Twilight in the crowd gesturing her to performing a deep-breathing exercise while doing it herself, she moved to do the same. And just in an instant she regained her confidence and cool.

She then focused her mind as she briefly listen the Lions of the Past before suddenly smiling upon knowing of what to do next. ”Shwari!” She stated before dipping her fingers in the yellow paint, and then the orange paint, along the other various colors on her palette. When she was done, she had presented her creation to the very curious crowd. The Royal Family of the Pride Lands, featuring the four lions, and in addition the Royal Family of Equestria featuring the four alicorns, along with the white unicorn, Shining Armor. “I did it, Rafiki!”

“Whoa!” The crowd all said in awe upon seeing her stunning painting.

And Rafiki himself was very proud as he moved to congratulate his apprentice for completing that next and important step. “Yes, you did, Makini. Yes, you did.”

Author's Note

Here in this episode, we have well...the titular characters who briefly lived nearby Rafiki's tree who are all struggling to find a place where they can call home, which makes it difficult when their shared common ground isn't fully appreciated by their herd leaders...for obvious reasons. I mean it's pretty hard to feel bad for them when they have manners and behavior that only Bunga and Pinkie would relish in.

While Makini enjoys spending time with them, Rafiki however isn't feeling the same way, mainly because given that his apprentice is supposed to be preparing for an upcoming ceremony where she gets to paint an important picture for the Royal Family. I mean to be fair, even the wisest and most patient of characters have their limits, and I'm sure with all things considered Rafiki does have reason to frown upon their antics.

But regardless, the kids do prove themselves invaluable when they saved both his and Makini's lives when dry lightning caused a hazardous fire that nearly killed them and helped both Rainbow and Pinkie put out the fire. Furthermore, they have come to fully respect Rafiki along with his need for quiet when needed to the point they managed to find a new place to reside where they can be themselves along without disrupting anyone else there, and got to see Makini paint a beautiful portrait while they were at it.

Next up, the Cutie Map will be calling ponies for their first friendship mission for the first time since the beginning of the season where Bunga and Kyoga will be accompanying Pinkie and Rainbow Dash on their trip to Griffonstone where they will of course mean a familiar griffon who has a big thorn up her beak in regards to them since the last time she saw them. So be on the lookout for that by the end of the month so stay tuned...

Episode 10: The Lost Treasure of Griffonstone

Episode 10:

The Lost Treasure of Griffonstone

"La, la-la, la-la! La, la-la, la-la, la la-la la-la!" Pinkie happily said to herself as she as always during her spare time at Sugarcube Corner is making new treats for the shop. Even while batter was splattering around her and Gummy, all because of her quick stirring.

"This is gonna be so great, Gummy! We have absolutely nothing to do today except bake! I've been waiting for just the right time to finally try Granny Pie's super-special triple-chocolate, fifteen-layer marjolaine recipe! It's gonna be amazing!"

Gummy simply licked the batter off of his face, his expression still blank as always, while Pinkie went over the ingredients in separate bowls on the counter.

"Let's see. Nutty meringue, chocolate ganache, praline and nuts, cocoa-flavored buttercream…" But while Pinkie prepared the ingredients, she was completely oblivious to her cutie mark glowing.

"An hour per layer – that's fifteen hours of pure baking bliss!" She opened the oven and took out a tray of the first layer and placed it on the table. "Okay, Gummy, I think we're ready to start prepping the second layer!"

The door then knocked and a certain honey badger walked in with supplies, all while smiling like a happy fun and easy-going friend as always. “Hey, Pinkie. I got all those goodies you need for our super-duper-triple-chocolate cake!”

“Great!” Pinkie smiled widely knowing that their taste buds are going to be in for the ride of their lives. “Just set them on the table and help get baking!”

Already Bunga was getting to work in helping put together the best cake they have ever made. “Mmm-mmm. This is going to be Un-Bunga-veilably great!”

Just then they noticed something blinking that stopped them in their tracks.

“Huh?”

“What?”

They then looked down and saw that their cutie marks and Marks of the Guard are both glowing. Just like back when they first discovered the Cutie Map.

“Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!”

“Oh, my gosh! My cutie mark! You know what this means?!"

“Me too! Someone needs our help!”

They quickly removed their chef outfits and rushed on over to the door, but Pinkie them remembered as she addressed to her pet. "Uh, Gummy? Could you take over for a bit? Hopefully this'll be quick." She dusted the measuring cup beside him, "I'll just measure the baking powder for you...and when the first layer cools, you can drizzle some of the ganache over it." using her bang, she gave him the egg beater, " And don't forget to beat the egg whites for the meringue!"

“Come on, Pinkie! Let’s go! Time’s a wasting!” Bunga’s voice called from outside.

“Coming!” Pinkie called after him before turning to place the egg beater into Gummy's mouth. "I know you can do this, Gummy! You're the best alligator baker I've ever met!" She kissed his nose before skipping out the door, all while leaving Gummy alone…blinking.

This should work out wonders, or more accurately it's like nothing had ever happened while they're gone….

Inside the large Crystal Castle, in the main throne room where the Cutie Map lies, the map on the table shimmered with Pinkie Pie, Bunga, Rainbow Dash, and Kyoga's cutie marks spinning around a specific area. Twilight's eyes sparkled with glee upon seeing where they hovered over.

"This is so exciting. The map is summoning you to Griffonstone, the very heart of the griffon kingdom!"

Inside the palace, Pinkie Pie, Bunga and Rainbow Dash were there. Ono flew inside with a book in tow and placed it on the table. He like Twilight was looking fascinated with they have put on the table.

"I don't know if any of you have read "Bygone Griffons of Greatness", but griffons were known to be—"

"Rude, insensitive bullies?" Rainbow finished while sitting back on her throne, looking on very disinterested and disdainful at the idea of visiting the place.

"You mean Gilda?" Twilight asked, remembering her former flying friend’s last visit here in Ponyville.

“Yeah I mean Gilda!” Rainbow irritably replied. “When she came to Ponyville, she was a total jerk to all my friends, especially Pinkie Pie!"

"She was a bit of a party popper." Pinkie remarked in agreement, while laying on her throne upside down.

“And she did roar at me and sent me flying into someone’s dessert.” Ono recalled unable to deny it actually happened.

Rainbow Dash nodded her head in agreement. "Mm-hmm."

Twilight moved to try to get her to be more upbeat and positive about it. "Okay so, Gilda was kinda rude."

"Kinda?!" She incredulously asked back like she is kidding around.

Twilight decided to backpedal a little. "Okay, rude reincarnated.” She then smiled once more for them. “You still get to go to Griffonstone, and according to this book, it has a rich, fascinating history!" Using her magic, she opened the book and read out loud as the others looked on at the stunning images it produced.

"In ancient times, griffons were known to be as greedy as dragons, always hoarding their bits and other treasures. But all that changed when King Grover found the mysterious golden Idol of Boreas. Legend says the Idol of Boreas was made from the dust of golden sunsets, blown across the mountains by the north winds. Possessing the Idol of Boreas filled the griffons' hearts with pride. It's said that that one great treasure is responsible for turning Griffonstone into the most majestic kingdom of all the land."

Rainbow Dash rudely slammed the book in response. "And why do you care so much about griffons anyway?"

"It was actually Gilda's visit that made me curious." Twilight answered. "So I picked up "Bygone Griffons of Greatness", and I've been hooked ever since!"

Ono flew over while looking on at the images. “Me too, even with all things considered.” Rainbow simply raised a single eyebrow in his direction in response. “What? It’s true, even dealing with one bad egg doesn’t mean something or somebody is not worth pursuing. In this case, one mean griffon compared to a whole population doesn’t mean it might not be fun.”

Twilight sighed dreamily as she looked on at the floating cutie marks around the city. "And now... Now you four get to see Griffonstone with your very own eyes." Her previous smile faded into sadden disappointment.

“So just me, Rainbow Dash, Bunga, and who else?” Pinkie asked as she took a second look at the fourth cutie mark accompanying them.

“Me.” The lioness herself answered as she arrived inside the throne room. “Hey…” She greeted after taking some light breathes. “…sorry I’m late but I had to make sure everything was all good in Diamond Valley before leaving for the day."

“It’s all right.” Twilight smiled to assure her it’s no big deal. “You arrived just in time to know all that there is too it. A simple friendship mission all the way out to Griffonstone.”

“Nice.” Kyoga nodded as she looked at the sight of the map as he spotted her, Pinkie, Bunga, and Rainbow Dash’s cutie marks circling around their destination. “And I see I get to bring some friends along the way.”

“That’s right!” Bunga cheered already excited on par with Pinkie’s enthusiasm.

“Wee!” Pinkie squeed as she hugged both Bunga and Kyoga. “We are so going to have so much fun together!”

Upon seeing that both Twilight and Ono were looking a little downcast, Rainbow moved to offer. "Hey, either of you can totally take my place if you want." Rainbow said before yawning and moving to go back to sleep, "I still have half a nap to finish."

"Why don't you just come with us?" Pinkie asked the two smart ones of the bunch.

“We wish we could. But, we got stay and keep watch of the Pride Lands in case somebody decides to threat the balance of the Circle of Life. Again.” Ono rolled his eyes on the last part while Twilight looked aside still downcast. “Not to mention one of us being around in case Applejack hurts herself. Again.”

Deep down Twilight really wanted to come see the kingdom and take them up on their offer and so did Ono. But if there’s a reason that the map’s only calling a certain specific group it has to be that way.

"Yeah. Besides, if the map wanted me and Ono to go to the coolest kingdom in all of Equestria and tour the palace and see the actual idol that unites an entire species, which would be super amazing, I'm sure it would've said so." She never the less moved to be mature about it. “Plus I’m sure you four can handle whatever the issue is just fine by yourselves. If anyone can solve a friendship problem together, it’s you four whether it’s together or alone."

“That’s true. We do.” Kyoga nodded once more before giving a soft look to both Twilight and Ono to assure them that the map will call them in due time.

Pinkie Pie could barely reign in her excitement anymore. "Well then, come on Bunga, Kyoga, Dashie! We're going to Griffonstone!"

Rainbow Dash sighed bitterly as she relented, "Fine…"

"That's the spirit!" Pinkie blew on a party horn thus irritating the Pegasus even more before dragging her away and outside with the others following after them.

“Good luck.”

“Have fun.”

Both Twilight and Ono called after them as they left.

“Thanks.” Kyoga returned as she is the last to follow after the group.

Once they left Kion had just arrived after witnessing the four leave. “I take it they got the message?”

“Yep.” Both Twilight and Ono replied in unison similar to Big Mac.

From a simple look, Kion could tell from their stoic reply that they really wanted to go with them but because the map called the departing friends instead, they couldn’t. “Okay well anyways…” He none of the less smiled with the hopes of cheering them with some adventure in the Pride Lands they might encounter. “You two ready for our morning patrol?”

“Yep.” They both replied in the same tone and in unison again before being quick to fly out of the castle ready to regroup with the others all waiting outside.

Deep down, Kion would have loved to go on another journey himself, but of course who would be watching over the Pride Lands and Ponyville in his absence and without his leadership alongside Twilight’s. But regardless, he still moved to regroup with the others outside before they all headed out towards the portal to the Pride Lands ready for another day in ensuring and keeping peace in both kingdoms.

Meanwhile, the four friends heading to Griffonstone took a train ride to the kingdom. Kyoga sat beside the window, reading a guidebook the princess and the Guard’s Keenest of Sight had given her, Bunga, and the other two ponies.

"Once in Griffonstone proper, we go immediately to the palace and introduce ourselves to the king. "Bygone Griffons of Greatness" was written a long time ago, and it ends with the coronation of the fourteenth king of the griffons, King Guto. There's no mention on who's in charge now." She then noticed that Rainbow Dash was resting her body on the seat opposite from her. “You’re getting this, Rainbow Dash?”

“Yeah, yeah.” She replied rather uninterested.

"Keep in mind it’s not what Twilight wants from us but something we need to consider if we want to solve whatever is expected of us." She sternly reminded.

"Whatcha reading, Kyoga?" Pinkie asked once the cater pony came in, pushing a cart of snacks for her to purchase while Bunga licked his lips ready to sink his teeth into those tasty treats.

Rainbow sighed in response. "Twilight literally wrote a book on what we need to do in Griffonstone."

"You mean like a guide on how to figure out what problem we're supposed to fix?" Pinkie Pie asked while she started taking every treat the catering cart has to offer.

"And then some. It's like Twilight herself in book form." Rainbow took the book itself from Kyoga and began imitating the alicorn princess. ""Always carry plenty of bits. The griffons are sure to help you as long as you share the wealth"."

Rainbow and Kyoga's eyes then widened when they saw Pinkie Pie give the cater pony a large bag-full of yellow bits before leaving. Pinkie chewed on what she was eating before swallowing it and chuckled nervously once she realized something while Bunga helps himself to half of the desserts she bought. "Uh, can I borrow some bits?"

Kyoga snatched the book away from Rainbow while face-palming herself at what Pinkie just did. “Only if you make a Pinkie Promise that you’ll use it for transport and emergency use only.” She then turned back to Rainbow. “And as for you, I understand that you’re not excited about the idea of seeing Gilda again. And yes, Twilight and Kion told me all about her when she first came to Ponyville. But I really think this trip is worth pursuing. And who knows maybe we might learn something more about them while we’re at it.”

Rainbow still refused to lighten up. “Whatever. Just as along as we don’t see you know who, I don’t care what this is about.”

“You don’t have to see or have anything to do with her if you don’t want to but at least think about the bigger picture in regards to friends that need help.”

Rainbow simply turned her back on her in response. “I’ll keep that in mind. Wake me up when our train arrives.”

Kyoga frowned in her direction, clearly put off by the Pegasus’s rudeness before moving to read the book. “Oh, I’ll make sure of that.” She promised under her breath before hearing someone munching near her ear.

“Want some?” Bunga asked while offering her a cookie to which she reluctantly took just to appease him.

“Sure.” She replied before munching on it as she continued to focus on her reading.

Sometime later, the train had reached their destination. Their stop at a small and old shack that looks like no one has bothered to properly maintain and clean in years. Rainbow adjusted her saddle bag and large luggage while Kyoga took out the book and read the words out loud,

"Upon arriving in Griffon Gorge, be sure to pause and cast your eyes northerly, up the Hyperborean Mountains, taking in the breathtaking beauty of Griffonstone."

She looked up and locked her eyes the tall hill where the majestic griffon kingdom is currently located.

“All right, everyone. Let’s move." She said as she moved to start their upward journey there.

The four walked up the mountain, or in Pinkie Pie's case, hopping up and down along the way. During the journal they were all now wearing rounded hats with a pointed golden top and fur lining around them. The friends scaled up the rocks and cliffs, going higher and higher uphill towards the city. It took a while but they were finally able to reach the arch entrance to the kingdom. The arch was made out of pure gold with red feathers decorating the corners. Upon arriving Kyoga took out the book once more, to read out the instructions from this point forward.

"Okay, now that we’re here, we head straight on over to the king or whoever is in charge now, and let him know we were sent by the Princes and Princes of Friendship, and if none of them can’t help, then we try and find their library." Her eyes perked up when she read another bit. "Oh, and while we’re here, we should try out some of those griffon scones. They're said to be the best."

“Oh…” Bunga said as he read some parts of the book. “…don’t forget the photo op with the statue of King Grover. “Fun bonus fact.” He smiled with glee.

Of course, Rainbow Dash is still uninterested in the slightest.

"Aw, Twilight and Ono should've come along!" Pinkie Pie said, feeling sorry for their friends.

“Along with Kion!” Bunga added in agreement. “Then they could see first-hoof that Griffonstone is…"

Their eyes widened at the sight in front of them, something that they never had expected to see. The proclaimed magical, glorious, amazing and powerful kingdom is actually…

"…a total dump!"

This land was not what they had expected given from the pictures back in Ponyville. Griffonstone had various trees all around, the ground surrounded with hay, making look the kingdom is just one big bird's nest. The golden hay rooftops were torn off, broken, and destroyed beyond repair. There was garbage and debris scattered all around the place. It looked as if a storm had hit the place really hard while destroying everything around them. Furthermore, the griffons didn't seem to mind at all. They just went about their business, not speaking to one another and not caring at all that they are not living in ideal living conditions.

The quartet walked into the kingdom all looking on very dismayed at seeing the kingdom’s current state, furthermore there were griffons having homes on tall unstable trees, moreso than what a normal tree can withstand. In addition, there were griffons that were gambling on the streets, something that both Rainbow and Bunga cringed upon seeing.

“Dang! Looks like a twister hit this place.”

"Ugh. Maybe the map should've called Rarity instead of us."

Pinkie spotted a grown male griffon and tried to speak with him, "Excuse me, sir?" but he simply ignored her. She walked up to him blocking him from his path, "This is Griffonstone, right?"

The griffon simply took Pinkie's face with his claw and shoved her aside before continuing his merry way all without changing his expression.

"Well, that wasn't very nice."

"See? These griffons are exactly like I'd thought they'd be." Rainbow Dash said feeling her point has been made there with that alone.

Kyoga couldn’t say otherwise about that one griffon. From what she’s heard and seen, Gilda sure was nasty to some of her friends, but did that really mean that’s all there is to it.

“Come on…” She gestured the others to continue following her. “Let’s just go find the king and find out why this place is under less than ideal living conditions.”

"We don't have a king, losers."

The quad turned around to see a female griffon standing before them. A very familiar griffon they’ve seen before. Gilda. Rainbow Dash immediately narrowed her eyes at her upon seeing her again.

"Hello, Gilda."

"Dash."

"Pinkie!" The pink pony chimed in cheerfully.

“Bunga!” And so did the honey badger since he couldn’t resist not joining in on the fun.

“And I see you brought an extra friend.” Gilda remarked while pointing her claw at the three-legged lioness. "One that seems to have left one of her legs back home.”

Both Kyoga and Rainbow frowned at the griffon for that rude remark before the latter introduced them.

“Yeah, thanks. And by the way, in case you haven’t seen her before that’s Kyoga. Kyoga, this is Gilda.”

“Hey!”

They both greeted with rather grumpy and agitated with each other already.

With the small pleasantries out of the way, the hostilities continued between the two former friends.

"What are you doing here?" Rainbow demanded of her.

"Uh, I'm a griffon? What's your excuse, dweebs?"

Pinkie Pie stepped in between them taking offense to that remark. "Hey! These 'dweebs' are here to help Griffonstone!"

"Help it what?"

"Well… we're not really sure! But it involves a map and our cutie marks and a problem, and—"

"Bored now!"

Gild walked right by the pony, hoping they were just visiting briefly but unfortunately for her that’s not the case.

"Well if you don't have a king, could you at least tell us where the Idol of Boreas is?" Kyoga asked.

Gilda turned around, laughing at her. "Ha-ha! Don't tell me you really believe in that thing."

"You'd better believe in it!" An elderly and raspy sounding voice was heard, followed by coughing and wheezing. An old griffon on the window of a beaten down home emerged from his house nearby by falling down from his upper front window. He then moved to open the door on the lower level of his house completely unharmed from the fall. Said griffon wore a red fez and was blind on his left eye, which was a scar on it, and his head had no feathers, in contrast to the rest of his body. "The Idol was the best thing to ever happen to us griffons!"

Gilda rolled her eyes in annoyance. "Oh, great. Now you got Grampa Gruff started!"

Grampa Gruff walked up to the quad of visitors, still wheezing and coughing. "I'll tell you the whole tragic tale...for a couple of bits." he extended his yellow claw to the ponies. Knowing exactly what he is asking for by that gesture, Kyoga dug into her saddlebag and pulled out a few bits, placing them into his palm.

He inspected the bits to make sure they were real before putting them under his hat and leading them away. “Follow me, wiper snappers."

The friends, and Gilda, all followed after him as he led them to the old abandoned palace, which was so destroyed it looked more like a place of ancient history.

"The first griffon king, King Grover, united our kind like we've never been united before or since! And he did it all with that incredible Idol of Boreas." As he explained, Gilda mimicked his actions, but stopped once she saw him looking. Both Pinkie and Bunga giggled upon seeing this and in return got a glare from Kyoga that found themselves having to shut up.

"That idol brought pride to the heart of every griffon that saw it! From one king to the next, Griffonstone had our golden idol. We were the envy of all other species. It held us together – it gave us an identity – right up until the reign of King Guto. That's when Arimaspi came to steal our griffon treasure! King Guto tried to fight him off, but Arimaspi managed to get away with the idol! The guards tried to stop him, but a lightning storm intervened, destroying the stone bridge, making the horrible one-eyed monster fall down, along with our greatest treasure! They say when it fell into the Abysmal Abyss, our pride went with it. King Guto was the last king of Griffonstone, and we all lived miserably ever after. The end!"

By the end both Bunga and Pinkie Pie had started tearing up.

"That was the saddest story ever!"

“So sad!”

The elderly griffon moved in close. "Aw, well...” Then suddenly shouted with no sympathy for the two. “…Tough tailfeathers! No refunds!"

"No wonder Twilight's book ended with the coronation of King Guto." Kyoga commented. "Who would want to record a history that sad?"

"It's not sad!" Gilda retorted. "Do we look sad to you?"

Behind her, Grandpa Gruff struggled to fly and had to result to crawling out the window. Kyoga noticing this was left unsure whether if she should lend a helping paw before replying.

“Well, for starters you all don’t look very happy.”

“So?”

Rainbow Dash walked up to the moldy old stump where the Idol once stood while tapping her chin with the tip of her hoof as she pondered on this. It didn't take her long to realize what it was they needed to do.

"Guys, I think I know why the map sent us here. We need to find the Idol of Boreas and bring glory and pride back to Griffonstone!"

Gilda simply laughed at the idea. "Ha-ha. Here we go – typical pony hero complex. None of us care about that dumb old idol. Don't you get it? We don't care about anything, and that's the way we like it!"

"I think Rainbow Dash is right!" Pinkie suddenly appeared on Gilda's back, who was already airborne and agreeing with her. "The map sent us here to fix some sort of problem!"

"The only problem Griffonstone has is you!"

The female griffon angrily bucked the pink pony off of her back before flying out the window. Kyoga moved to catch Pinkie from falling but both still looked on at Gilda as she flew away. As much as she wanted to berate Gilda for her behavior, at the same time felt sympathy for her given that she too has been there before when she first met the Lion and Pony Guard.

Rainbow Dash crossed her front hooves not about to let all of that deter her. "Well, I don't care what she says. We're gonna find that treasure, make Griffonstone cool again, and get back to Ponyville! Come on!" She was just about to fly off when Pinkie stopped her.

"Wait, Rainbow Dash. What about Twilight's advice?"

"What, taking a bunch of pictures?"

"She mentioned finding answers at the library."

Rainbow scoffed in response. "Like what? Answers on how use friendship to solve this problem or how to properly organize a library?”

“Not exactly…” Bunga said in the pink pony’s defense.

Kyoga however begged to differ on that. “Actually yes…” She then quickly added in the impatient Pegasus’s direction. “…on the first part. Seriously!” She stated to assert she means it. “Because truthfully I don’t think grandfather griffon was being completely honest with us and that the griffons actually stole anything from each other.”

“Then what game plan do you suggest, Team Captain?!” She asked in a rather demanding tone of voice.

“I’m suggesting and insisting that we still check out the library because it might tell us what really happened to the idol and how we can extract whatever useful information we can get out of it.” Rainbow pouted and crossed her arms until she added. “Of course you can always check out Abysmal Abyss and see what happened to the missing idol so you can help get the job done faster.”

Rainbow smiled feeling very pleased to hear this. “Got it!” And in an instant she quickly zipped away to do her fun part.

Bunga turned to Kyoga smiling eagerly and hopefully with a big and wide smile to mentally ask her if he can join Rainbow on this exciting and thrill seeking adventure of a task.

“Go on.” She gestured with her paw. “And make sure Rainbow doesn’t get hurt.”

“Yes ma’am!”

“Ma’am?!” Kyoga looked upon him like he just insulted her.

“What?” Bunga asked failing to understand why she didn’t feel flattered instead. “It’s just because you’re a lady and you older than me.”

“By one year.”

“Exactly!” Bunga smiled before taking off while waving his hand. “See ya!”

In very little time as always, Rainbow managed to find a store that sold climbing gear and went inside. "I'm here on behalf of the Lion and Pony Guard to find your missing idol and save Griffonstone!!"

Of course, the store itself is in horrible shape and the female griffon wearing a blue cap running the shop looks on with a bored blank expression.

"Uh, I'll need some rope, a grappling hook, and a guide to take me down to the Abysmal Abyss."

"And I'll need some bits." She said while extending her claw expecting the requested payment. Rainbow looked on ahead looking pretty annoyed with her attitude before complying. The look on the blue Pegasus’s face could tell that she is not in for what should be an easy mission.

Meanwhile, Kyoga and Pinkie traveled through the town, trying to ask anybody for directions to the library but have not succeeded in finding it. Upon seeing Gilda again, Pinkie immediately hopped on over hoping she can help them.

“Pinkie, what are doing?” Kyoga asked while looking on like she is being absent-minded in the head.

“Asking for help, silly!”

Kyoga groaned in response before reluctantly followed after her to ensure nothing bad happens between them.

"Hey, Gilda! Word on the street is that Griffonstone has an amazing library chock-full of answers!"

"Word on what street?" She irritably replied.

"Okay, maybe not this street, but on other streets, your library is the talk of the town."

Gilda really doesn’t want to deal with her anymore, but reluctantly gave in with the hope she’ll leave her be for good before pointing her in the right direction. "The library's right there, so why don't you go inside and leave me alone?!"

Kyoga frowned after the griffon walking away and pulling her cart. That alone was enough for her to understand why Rainbow ended her friendship with her.

Never the less, they both headed to the direction Gilda had pointed them towards, and their eyes widened in shock at what they saw next. The library itself wasn’t even a building, but more of a place where there everything, every shelf, every book, every statue is all scattered around like another old abandoned house.

“Wow! This is a library.” Kyoga could only say about the place.

Pinkie Pie also gasped when she spotted the ruined books in front of her. "Maybe it's good that Twilight didn't come…"

"No kidding. Just talking to her about it will get her all frantic in wanting to fix it.”

Still they both moved to search what was left of the place with Pinkie taking the high ground when she moved to obtain a book placed on the very top of the statue of King Grover, while Kyoga took the low ground.

"It's sad what happened to your town, King, but Rainbow can't be right. This can't all be because of a missing hunk of gold." She started playing with the loose mouth of the statue and began playing with it, so she can imitate him. "You are right, Pinkie! And you've got amazing hair! " She changed back to her normal voice, "Aw, King Grover, you old charmer!"

"Pinkie, it’s not nice to mimic a king even when he’s dead.” Kyoga chastised while moving to use some glue to fix the jaw that Pinkie accidentally broke off before continuing her search in looking through the books. But unfortunately not even the books were of much help since none of them held what they were looking for. “So much for help from your local library.” She muttered to herself with a sigh. Like Twilight, one would think that even Griffonstone would at least something useful but it was really just wishful thinking on her own part.

She along with Pinkie noticed two griffons walk on by, bump into each other’s heads while they were too busy looking down at their bits. They walked by each other, not even at least saying 'Sorry' or 'Excuse' me.

“Geez, what the hay really back then to cause every griffon here to act like us?” Kyoga asked herself just when Pinkie walked over to Gilda who happened to be close by.

She gasped in realization when she got an idea. "I know what Griffonstone needs!"

"Fewer ponies?" Gilda rhetorically asked as she placed a few bland looking, stone hard pastries on display on her cart.

"A song! I've got a super song about smiling that sure to make even the most grumpy griffon grin!" She inhaled a huge portion of air, but Gilda covered her mouth before she could even get out a lyric.

"Can't sing here!" She pointed her claw towards a picture of a griffon singing, and a red circle with a slash on it, to indicate proof that it’s an official law.

"But how do you break into uplifting musical numbers with no singing?"

"Yeah, that's Griffonstone's biggest problem – lack of uplifting musical numbers." Gilda sarcastically replied as she continued arranging the pastries.

"Well if I can't sing, how about a party? If there's one thing these griffons need, it's a good cheer! Where's your party store?"

Gilda only glared at her, without saying a word.

"No party store? Uh, how about cake? Nothing cheers folks up like cake! Where's a bakery?"

"Ugh."

Pinkie Pie could not believe what she was hearing from the grumpy griffon. "No singing, no party store, no bakery?! What is this place?!"

"You're welcome to leave at any time!" Gilda's scream was enough to literally blow Pinkie Pie away and hit a wall, leaving a Pinkie shaped hole and she slid down to the ground.

“Excuse me!” Kyoga moved to confront her now feeling her patience running thin now. “That is my friend you’re talking to and that was uncalled for.”

Gilda didn’t back down even when sensing she has magic at her disposal. “Well maybe that wouldn’t have happened if she along with you had left when you both had the chance.”

"At least compared to the other annoying buggers Pinkie is trying to help you. While she is being nothing but smiles and cheers even after what happened back from your last visit you on the other hoof are being too grumpy and rude to accept any help at all!”

“And this coming from someone who’s actually exactly like me? If that’s so then tell me what gives you any right to tell me off?”

“Because I’ve been there before.” Gilda remained unconvinced until she added. “I lost my family when I was young and my leg to evil lions who destroyed everything I once had. Yeah, evil lions tore the place up and even killed my parents right in front of me, and I’ve been living and wandering the world ever since up until I met the Lion and Pony Guard who took me in and became a part of their team that helps protect the Pride Lands and all of Equestria. So don’t try anything else on me because I’ve had it much worse that you did!”

The griffon, for the first time, was left stunned in shocked silence due to someone actually talking back at her like that. Up until now, she never decided to pay attention and realize that there was more tragic nature to Kyoga’s backstory that meets the eye and at the same time now feeling regretful with some of her earlier remarks against her.

Kyoga suddenly realized her mistake before talking a deep sigh to calm herself down. “Sorry, that came out harshly than I intended.”

Gilda huffed in response before focusing on prepping up her pastry display to which caught the lioness’s attention. “Are those griffon scones.

“Yes. That's my specialty."

Pinkie Pie quickly rushed on over. "I'll buy one!"

Gilda took a scone from her cart, which looked as hard as a rock with sticks coming out of it. Pinkie prepared her teeth to chomp on it but ended up biting into nothung but air when Gilda pulled it away and extended her free claw.

"Bits first!"

Pinkie pulled on her mane so a bit can fall out of it and hand to Gilda. Once she received payment for the treat she shoved the scone into her mouth. She tried to chew on it, but the scone was far too hard and flavorless for her to really enjoy it because it was mainly composed of dirt, rocks and twigs. She really tried but it was very painful for her jaws.

"Well?" Gilda asked for her opinion on the treat. "What, you like it? That's my Grampa Gruff's secret recipe."

Kyoga winced she heard and saw what happened when Pinkie felt something break in her jaw.

"Ow! I think I broke a tooth!"

"Well, whatever. No refunds. I don't even care anyway. I just want to sell enough of these so that I can leave this lousy town."

Pinkie spit out the remains of the scone, and a few of her teeth to which Kyoga was quick to use her magic to place in a plastic bag. "I can help you with that!" She smiled and offered even after having her teeth broken. "Kyoga, wanna help me help Gilda make the best tasting scones Griffinstone's ever tasted?"

“Sure.” She shrugged while still being willing to help out. “What have I got to lose?”

Elsewhere, Bunga had managed to catch up with Rainbow Dash and they both have managed to don the proper climbing gear for the safe climb down the abyss down below alongside the store pony. When they all got it they found the abyss is incredibly windy so that means they both have to be extremely careful and refrain from making the wrong move during their little trip down there.

“Brrr!” Bunga felt a small chill run up his spine from the gusty winds. “Think maybe that winter weather is starting to come up this way too?”

“Probably.” Rainbow replied before turning her head to the accompanying griffon. "Uh, you think you could tighten the strap on my helmet?" She asked of her.

"Can you give me more bits?" the griffon asked, while giving her the demanding tone and gesture.

Bunga who’s being nothing but friendly and complying with their wishes is alongside starting to get rubbed the wrong way by their high demand for bits, especially considering of how much she’s taken from them from being rented all for all of their gear.

Rainbow sighed in annoyance and instead tighten the strap herself. "Never mind, I got it." She looked down at the bottomless pit bellow, and felt an uncomfortable feeling inside of her. "So how deep is this abyss?"

"How deep are your pockets?" The griffon asked, further irritating the Pegasus.

"Don't you griffons ever talk about anything but bits?"

"Gimme some bits and I'll answer."

“Geez, is there anything that’ll you do with zero bits involved?” Bunga asked now starting to share her friend’s annoyance.

“Same price, same answer.”

"No wonder Gilda's such a delight." Rainbow said under her breath before moving to head down the abyss. "Okay Bunga, I going to need your help in having my back, so hold to this rope and make sure I don’t fall.”

Bunga saluted like a faithful and loyal solider. “Righto, Rainbow!”

Back near the destroyed library, it didn’t take much for Kyoga to decline tasting the scone herself while Pinkie was brave enough to take another bite so she can properly deduce of how to improve on it’s taste and flavor.

"Grampa Gruff's recipe is good, but it's missing one important ingredient."

"Don't tell me. "Friendship"?" Gilda said sarcastically while waving her claws in a sarcastic manner.

Pinkie looked on confused for a second before answering. “Uh, no. Baking powder. Lucky for you, I never leave home without it!" Pinkie pulled out the baking powder used it to on the freshest batch of scones. “Now just pop those in the oven, and you'll have griffon scones worth their weight in gold!"

The sweet scent it produced caused a nearby female griffon wearing a greyish-blue scarf with a lunar broach on it to stop in her tracks to take a good whiff. Another griffon flew by and knocked her down for being in his path causing her to fall down hard into the ground right in front of Gilda, Pinkie and Kyoga.

"Greta!" Gilda quickly rushed over and helped her stand up, but Greta coldly threw her arm off of her and walked away wordlessly without even a thanks.

“So Gilda.” Kyoga asked with a smirk. “Who’s your friend.”

“What friend?”

“You know. The one you just helped up on her paws.”

"Aha!" Pinkie exclaimed with a smirk too. "You may act like a gruff, grumbling griffon, but inside you're gracious and great!"

"What, her? Greta's just some griffon I know. We don't have friends here!" Gilda sighed, her expression turning into one of sadness and regret. "I did have a friend once, but you saw how that turned out."

“Rainbow Dash?”

“Yes.”

At that moment Pinkie’s eyes widen in deep shock as she realized something she needs to do.

"Oh my gosh, we gotta go find Rainbow Dash and Bunga!" She exclaimed. But before running off to check up on them she told Kyoga before she could even think of following after her. “Stay here with Gilda and help her finish the scones, I’ll get them.”

“Good call.” She said after her as she rushed off much to the griffon’s dismay.

Back at the abyss, the winds have gotten stronger to the point both Rainbow’s mane and Bunga’s hair were blowing, while the griffon beside them looked on indifferently.

"You sure we can't just fly down?" Rainbow said while yelling because of the wind canceling out her voice. She flapped her wings and attempted to fly down the abyss, only to be pushed right back up where she started. "Whoa! Never mind, totally got my answer there."

The griffon held the rope as Rainbow scaled down the cliff with Bunga standing by at the top of the cliff. "Just gotta find that golden idol and get out of this place." but when she moved to go deeper, the rope was suddenly cut off by a sharp rock, causing Rainbow to fall. She flapped her wings to try to stop her from falling but the strong wind currents blew her and caused her to smack hard onto a ledge when she lost altitude. From the looks of it, her left rear leg took a hard impact upon landing.

"Ow, ooh! My hoof! Help! Throw me another rope!"

"You got bits?" The griffon asked to which Rainbow Dash sadly shook her head in response since she had already spent every coin she had brought here. The greedy griffon callously shrugged and left the injured pony alone in the abyss, taking the rope with her.

Before she could leave, an angered honey badger tossed an orange at the back of her head. “Hey!”

“Ow!”

“Really?! You’re just going to leave her down there just for not having bits with her after you took every last coin we had?!”

“Yep!” She simply shrugged again before moving to walk off.

“Okay, that’s it!” Bunga at his breaking point with her greedy attitude to the point he moved to leap onto and attacked her with brute force. “Take that you…” Their brawl created a dust cloud which obscured the actual fight as they tumbled away from the cliff.

"Wait! Heeeeeelp...!" She screamed loudly and in vain since nobody’s close by to come to her aid in a very dire time of need.

Rainbow had managed to use her time trapped on the ledge to wrap her injured leg in bandages, but the winds were just too strong for her to be able to fly her way out. If only she had the entire Guard by her side she would be out of here no problem She screamed at the top of her lungs in a desperate cry for help. Thankfully, someone was around to hear it.

"There you are!" Pinkie’s voice called from above. "Forget about finding the idol! I figured out how to solve Griffonstone's real problem – scones!"

"Pinkie Pie, you get back here!"

"Yeah?"

"Can you throw down a rope or something?"

"Lemme look!" Pinkie shouted from above. "One rope coming up!” Rainbow opened her hooves ready to grab onto it and found herself able to climb upwards when Pinkie managed to tie it up to a nearby rock.

Unfortunately for them, the super gusty winds is making it very difficult for Pinkie to be able to pull Rainbow out safely to the point it snapped the rope in half.

“Oh, no!”

“Hang on, I’m coming Rainbow Dash!”

Luckily, Bunga had reappeared and managed to leaped down to grab the rope before it could fall into the abyss while managing to dig his claws into the steep cliff to prevent him and Rainbow from falling down.

“Bunga?!”

“Don’t worry, I got you!” Bunga struggled to maintain his grip on the cliff. He was barely hanging on for their lives. “Pinkie! We need more help!”

“Don't go anywhere! I’ll be back!" Pinkie quickly galloped away to seek assistance.

Rainbow Dash sighed in annoyance. "Where does she think I'm gonna go?" Bunga’s claws nearly gave way when he slid downwards a few inches, causing her to yelp in panic and back up against the wall. "I hope I don't go anywhere!"

Elsewhere, Kyoga had just taken the now finished scones out of the oven and tried one. She smiled seeing that Pinkie’s recipe is a success. The griffon seeing her reaction also moved to try one. Like Kyoga, she too smiled feeling pleased that it got better results.

“You have to admit, for a pink pony that drives you crazy with her antics, she sure makes some mean scones.”

“No kidding.”

Now that they have a batch of edible treats, Kyoga moved to help Gilda place the scones on display and removed her oven mittens. After doing so she turned to the griffon with something on her mind. “So Gilda, if I may, how did you and Rainbow become friends?”

“Why does it matter to you?” She said with her backed turned on the lioness.

“No reason. I just wanted to get to you know better and I’m just curious is all. I mean did tell why I’m the lion I am today.”

“True, and I could tell you, but I doubt that it’ll matter either way. She used to be my friend. Not anymore. Not after when I last visited Ponyville.” She said not wanting to look back at the memory.

"Can't you remember when she was?"

Gilda didn't look back as she recalled a more fond memory replaying in her mind. "Yeah. Of course.”

That memory she is now thinking back towards is her first day at Junior Speedsters Flight camp. Back then, she was rather shy and unsure of herself. It was pretty clear that the poor griffon didn’t have any friends. As soon as she arrived three bullies that Rainbow had encountered in the past and present were quick to pick out her.

“Doesn't that griffon know she's supposed to fly at the Junior Speedsters Flight Camp?” Young Hoops remarked before suddnely being blasted in the face with a huge cloud of dust courtesy of a Young Rainbow Dash.

“Maybe she just doesn't want to make you look bad!”

With the bullies being put in their place, she turned back to the griffon she had just defended. "Hey there, I'm Rainbow Dash! And you are…?"

"Uh… G-G-G-G-Gilda."

"Stick with me, Gilda, and those guys won't give you any more guff."

Instantly upon flying the cloud course, the two had perfect flying chemistry together, like two speedsters neck and neck.

"Whoa! You're awesome!"

"You too, Rainbow Dash!"

"Well, Gilda, let's show these guys how it's done!" |

Ever since, the two were best friends and the best of the best of flight camp.

"Junior Speedsters are our lives,"

"Skybound soars and daring dives,"

"Junior Speedsters, it's our quest to someday be the very best!"

Gilda couldn't help but smile and tear up upon remembering that, but was quick to wipe it away to avoid showing it to Kyoga. "At least until the last time I came to Ponyville."

“Right the whole being mean to her friends so you can keep Rainbow all to yourself. Yeah, I’ve heard. And yes I know you prefer your own company when it comes to your own inner circle, but there’s nothing wrong with expanding it and being more open with others. And yes, Pinkie sure can be quite a literal cuckoo in the head at times but she means well and only wanted to spend time with you and Rainbow. She never intended to take Rainbow away from you, she just wanted to join in and be part of the fun.”

The more Gilda listens, the more she begins to really see her words getting her to open up her eyes to why Rainbow really broke off their friendship. If only she hadn’t been so selfish and short-sighted, she could have retained her friendship with her along with making friends with the Lion and Pony Guard as a whole. And now her behavior back then is now becoming her biggest regret.

"I know it’s tough, but they only mean well, and would have been more than happy to be your friends if you just let go of being rough around the edges and let them help you, like I did, when I first met the Lion and Pony Guard.”

Gilda was just left speechless unable to counter-respond to her words. Deep down, she truly wonders if they’d be willing to become her friends after the way she acted back then. But when she finally turned to face her…

"Kyoga! Gilda!"

The two heard Pinkie's voice call out to her as she quickly rushed over to them, briefly panting when she caught up to them. "Rainbow Dash and Bunga are stuck on a ledge in the Abysmal Abyss, and I need your help to save them!"

Gilda gasped before quickly hurrying on over to the abyss, even if one of them was a friend she hardly recognized as a friend when she first met him. “Fine. I'll help her. But that doesn't make me her friend." She stated to the pink pony, who simply smiled.

"Duly noted." After Gilda was out of earshot she smiled at Kyoga who also smiles knowing the truth deep down that gruff exterior. "Except it does!"

Bunga held onto the wall as long as he could, he even tried making his way up the cliff. He had managed to find a nearby branch to grasp onto, but even holding on it was enough for the roots to nearly pull out. While this was happening , Rainbow’s life was flashing before her eyes, very unsure if they’ll be able to make it out alive.

“Can’t! Hold! On! Much! Longer!”

And it seemed like Bunga's hold would definitely give away when...

"Hang on, losers! I'm coming!"

Both Rainbow and Bunga smiled with glee when they saw the female griffon scale downwards to get them. The rope was tied around her waist while Kyoga and Pinkie held onto it, tying it on the strongest rock there was.

"What took you so long, doofus?!" Rainbow shouted up, jokingly, while deep down really happy to see her come to their rescue while Bunga moves to reach up to Gilda with his free claw.

The winds still proved to be too strong even for Gilda as she was forced to hang onto the ledge with her strong talons just before she could reach the honey badger. Instantly, the branch gave away and left both Rainbow and Bunga both screaming and falling downwards.

"Rainbow Dash! Bunga! I'm coming for you!" Pinkie Pie leaped forward in an effort to save them.

“Pinkie! Wait!” Kyoga yelled out to her in vain since she had already leaped down into the abyss. “Oh, sweet merciful Nala.”

If that wasn’t bad enough, Gilda’s grip slipped and she too fell downwards into the abyss. Thinking quickly, she hurled the rope like a lasso, grabbing Pinkie Pie's waist who in return managed to catch up the honey badger and Pegasus.

"Gotcha!"

Gilda caught onto a ledge, having the two ponies and honey badger dangling down. "Hold on, you three!" Gilda grunted as she tried to climb up. She gasped at what she saw above her. A giant skeleton head of a one eyed, two horned monster, the head of the now deceased Arimaspi. In addition on another ledge happened to be something gold and shimmery on top of another griffon skeleton’s head.

"The Idol of Boreas!" She could not believe she has actually managed to find the ancient treasure lost to time before moving to try to reach out to it.

She was just inches away from securing but unfortunately she found herself unable to do that and keep the Lion and Pony Guard members dangling for their lives safe at the same time. The winds were getting stronger and Pinkie’s grip started to loosen.

"I'm slipping!" Rainbow exclaimed.

“Me too!” Bunga also yelled with fear in the tone of his voice all while looking down at the very dark abyss.

The Idol then slipped and was now dangling onto the ledge leaving Gilda facing a difficult choice. Saving the long lost treasure or her friends?

Just before the trio could fall to their doom, they felt the rope supporting them pull them upwards. Gilda managed to get onto her ledge and pull them all to safety. But after doing so, the golden treasure slipped off and fell down into the dark abyss, to never been seen again forever this time.

Both Rainbow and Bunga were devastated seeing they were actually this close to obtaining it after going through all of that life-threatening chaos.

"The idol!"

“They were depending on it and now it’s gone!”

"You're more important to me than some dumb chunk of gold." Gilda quickly assured them to assert of what’s really important.

Rainbow now feeling touched that Gilda moved to save her even after everything moved to give her the biggest hug she’s ever given her in years with Pinkie and Bunga joining in. Unfortunately the moment got cut short due the stone they were standing on unable to continue holding their weight.

"Hugging later, climbing now!" Pinkie tied the rope around Rainbow Dash and the three quickly climbed out of the abyss.

Upon spotting them from above, Kyoga moved to use her magic to levitate them a stronger rope before slowly reeling them back up to safety.

“Wow!” Words could not even express the relief on Kyoga’s face. “Am I glad to see you all!”

“I know!” Bunga couldn’t agree more. “I really thought I turned in my badge and life warranty that time.”

“Yeah, until Gilda here showed up.” Rainbow happily added.

The griffon tried to pass it off with little effort on the icy tone. “I just slipped and fell in that’s all.”

Everyone all chuckled and laughed, clearly not buying her attempted excuse.

“Yeah!”

“Sure right!”

“You can’t fool us!” Pinkie moved to hug her again. “You know you love us and we love you!”

“Yep! Like how Queen Nala loved her husband!” Bunga added.

The griffon then smiled unable to deny it because deep down she knows it’s true, she truly does love them as friends.

“Yeah! Yeah. Well now that we’re safe, let’s head on back before any of us slips and falls back down there, okay?”

Both Rainbow and Bunga were quick to agree with that suggestion.

“Good idea!”

“Let’s go!”

After getting away from the dangerous abyss, the five friends all made it back safely to Griffonstone, without further incident.

Once they were back, Gilda moved to show remorse for what happened since they last saw each other in Ponyville.

"I'm really sorry about how I treated you all."

The others were quick to forgive her.

“Apology accepted.”

“Hakuna Matata!”

“I forgive you.”

Rainbow, who was flying by her side as a necessity because of her injured hoof smiled before reassuring her. "Thanks Gilda, and to be fair, I’m sorry too for not putting the effort in trying to continue being friends with you. I never thought that day would ever come to pass until now."

"So…friends again?"

Rainbow smiled and rose her hoof up. "Junior Speedsters are our lives,"

Gilda smiled as well and flew up. "Skybound soars and daring dives,"

They finished the last part together. "Junior Speedsters, it's our quest to someday be the very best!"

Both Kyoga and Pinkie Pie smiled proudly at the beautiful reunion and rekindling of their friendship with it now restored.

"And I'm just sorry we didn't get your idol back." Bunga said equally apologetic. "Now we'll never be able to solve Griffonstone's problem."

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that Bunga.” Kyoga assured.

“What do you mean?”

Pinkie chimed in agreement. "The map didn't send us here to find the lost Idol of Boreas. It sent us here to replace it with something better!"

"Nothing's better than gold to a griffon." Gilda said.

"That's because you don't have friendship! If you can learn to care about each other again, Griffonstone could be a mightier kingdom than it ever was before! And you don't need some golden idol to do that. You just need each other."

Rainbow Dash smiled while Bunga stifled a chuckle, "Whoa, Pinkie. That was... really sappy." she said with a frown.

"Eh, what can I say? That's how I roll."

They then spotted Greta, walk on by. Kyoga nudged her head in her direction while looking at Gilda. "Go on, Gilda. Go make a friend."

It took a much needed push in the right direction along with Rainbow placing the tray of scones onto her claws from Pinkie Pie for her to work up the courage to do so.

"I don't know, Pinkie." Rainbow said unsure herself. "You really think these griffons are up for this? We aren't exactly in Ponyville, you know."

Kyoga simply smiled in return. “Just watch on learn, my friend. Watch and learn.”

They all did so as Gilda tried to make friends with Greta. At first, she refused until Gilda offered her a scone. Rainbow was still a tad worried, but the others remained sure and confident and sure enough there was a happy female griffon rejoining them.

"Okay, so she was really weirded out until I gave her the scone. Then she tried it and said it tasted good! That's the first nice thing any griffon's ever said to me!"

Just then the quad’s cutie marks along with the Marks of the Guard started glowing and ringing.

“And would you look at that!” Bunga said while admiring the glow on his arm marks.

"Whoa! I guess that really was the problem we needed to solve." Rainbow Dash said now impressed.

Pinkie Pie then suddenly appeared in an old film reel quality with the baking powder next to her. "Baking powder makes baked goods and friendships fluffy and delicious!" *squee*

"Well, we'd better be heading home." Rainbow said with their job here complete

Gilda’s wings spread out in shock. "What? Y-Y-You want me to spread friendship here by myself?! How am I supposed to do that?! I haven't even made one single friend yet!"

"No, you haven't." Bunga said…

…with Kyoga adding with a smile. "You've made four."

Pinkie started to tear up with joy. "Hugging! Hugging now!" The ponies, griffon, lioness, and honey badger all joined together for a warm friendly embrace. For the first time in a while, Gilda was truly happy to the point she didn’t even protest when Pinkie still held onto her.

"But you'll come back and visit, right?"

"Just try and stop us!" Rainbow said proudly.

Pinkie finally released Gilda who then waved her farewell to them for now before they all went their separate ways but not without having this to say to the lioness who got through to her.

“Thank you, for everything!”

“My pleasure. I really hope to see you again.”

“Me too.” She said before moving to bond with her friend over scones together.

“How about that, huh?” Bunga smirked at the lioness. “From student to teacher all in a year.”

“Well, what can I say? I do what I do best.”

Pinkie Pie looked back at the old statue of the first griffon king that both Gilda and Greta were sitting nearby. "See ya later, you old charmer."

"Uh, Pinkie? Who are you talking to?" Rainbow asked feeling a little weirded out by that.

"Nobody! Come on, let's go home and see how Gummy did with Granny Pie's marjolaine recipe!"

“My guess, probably little to none.” Kyoga remarked as they approached the large arch up ahead.

Back at Sugar Cube Corner, Gummy was still on the counter surrounded by all of the baking ingredients when a knock at the door was heard and Ono flew in looking like he is in a rush to greet them before looking on in surprise with what he flew into instead.

“What the…Gummy?” The little green alligator simply blinked. “Okay…never mind.” He simply flew out just deciding to pretend that moment never happened. Thus leaving Gummy alone and still blinking.

Author's Note

Here we have the first Friendship Mission in this season, and I'm sure I said it's Bunga and Kyoga accompanying both Pinkie and Rainbow Dash to Griffonstone where they meet Gilda for the first time since Season 1 (actually first time in Kyoga's case) where Rainbow is not happy upon seeing her again. A literal bitter reunion given with how things turned out the last time they met.

Now I'm sure you're wondering why I choose both Bunga and Kyoga to accompany both Rainbow and Pinkie Pie. Why they are the most fitting companions?

Bunga much like Pinkie shares her optimism in trying to help Griffonstone however they can with their positive energy and trying to find the bright side of things while taking a joy in the excitement of adventure when he joins Rainbow Dash at the windy abyss. That said he does have his limits when the griffons started to tax them until their pockets were dry. And he made good on ensuring that the griffon who left them high and dry paid the price for leaving them in the dust before showing his trademark bravery in saving Rainbow Dash.

Kyoga on the other hand, shows the wisdom and patience needed to fully understand and emphasize with Gilda as she is looking at herself back in Season 1 when she didn't want to welcome friendship into her heart at first. Despite taking in some low blows, she still gave her a listening ear and sympathized with her before imparting advice from the lesson she learned back then.

Together, they managed to restore Gilda's friendship and put Griffonstone on the right track to taking the first steps to rebuilding.

Anyways, that's it for this month, when the new month comes we get to see Jasiri the nice hyena again as she is in need of help when Janja and his pack gang up on her on Scar's orders so look out for that before Easter so stay tuned...

Episode 11: Rescue in the Outlands

Author's Note

Okay, after a handle of frustrations with technology I've finally managed to get a temporary device that'll allow me to try to continue publishing this story through the season's halfway point so let's hope this works for now so keep in mind don't get disappointed for any delays going forward until I can get a new computer.

Anyways, before I get into the story, I'd like to explain a few things before I get in hot water with the fandom.

For starters, for Thurston fans, I'm sorry for the fact that he is not a featured character in this version of the episode but he is unquestionably one of the most annoying characters in the show and a unnecessary slow-down to a plot where others are in need of rescue so try to be understanding of that.

Second and most importantly, this episode took a whole day of thinking of new scenes needed to fit in with this version of the episode but I feel certain I have managed to tie in and answer questions many of you have been wondering about one of the fan favorite show characters, Jasiri.

So if any of you feel I'm missing something, feel free to throw a suggestion in the comments below and I'll make whatever adjustments are needed to make this even better.

Moving forward, with further ado here is the episode itself with the next episode "The Ukumbusho Tradition." up next on the calendar so if things go smoothly you can expect that later this month so stay tuned until then...

Episode 11: Rescue in the Outlands

Episode 11:

Rescue in the Outlands

"Jasiri..." Another female hyena greeted her friend.

"Madoa..." Jasiri happily greeted in return as they both shared a friendly hug together as they both happen to be sisters. "...it's so good to see you!"

"You too!" She then turns her eyes turns her stomach. "And I don't need to say anything else of what's about to happen?"

"You mean..." She eagerly and excitably asked.

"Oh yes. I am going to be having the babies this week!"

"Oh I can't wait!" Jasiri could barely reign in her glee and excitement over the news.

Suddenly, the happy moment got cut off abruptly when they heard rumbling from nearby coming from the Outlands Volcano.

They ran up the nearby pathway so they can get higher and get a good look at what was happening before spotting Scar himself using the lava from the massive eruption to lay waste to the Pride Lands.

"What?!"

"No way?!"

They both exclaimed in shock only at seeing Scar still alive in the flesh himself but also with magical powers at his disposal.

Their shock and alarm further increased upon seeing the Lion and Pony Guard all fleeing the Outlands away from the Pride Lands along with not seeing Twilight and Kion with them.

"Where's Twilight? Why isn't she with them?" Madoa asked her sister.

"I don't know." She replied while unable to spot her out due to the volcano blocking the view of Twilight floating alongside Scar watching on seeing the royal family flee from the Pride Lands. "She must have been captured."

"No! What do we do?!"

"I'm afraid there's only one thing we can do." She said with deep regret before answering. "We have to flee the Outlands for now."

"Jasiri?"

"I mean it. He's too dangerous for our clan alone and you're expecting the twins any day. We have to find a safe place to raise them while trying to find help. It's the only way."

"Oh...all right. Let's go." Madoa truthfully doesn't like it but knows full well that this is their best course of action for survival before they moved on away from the volcano before gathering the clan so they can evacuate the Outlands.

Unbeknownst, to them Twilight who was looking around to see if there was anyone hit by the lava inside the Outlands happened to spot them from behind and from afar. To her relief, Jasiri and her clan weren't hit by the lava but at the same time for a brief moment she can't find it in her heart to pursue and face them as she correctly suspects they don't know of her involvement in this so she let them be.

"Twilight! What did you see?" Scar asked as he appeared behind her curious of whatever discovery she just made.

"A hyena clan who's not apart of Janja's is fleeing the Outlands in the opposite direction from the Lion and Pony Guard along with the Royal Family." She honestly replied. "Should I pursue and capture them?"

"No." He shook his head. "Leave them be. They're no threat to us. And if they were they would think twice about going up against us." He turned his head on towards Pride Rock before flying off. "Come, Twilight. We have plans to make for the new era in which pony and lion come together here in the Pride Lands. And soon all of Equestria."

Twilight gave one last look back in the direction Jasiri and her clan fled in and after seeing they have disappeared beyond the horizon where the sun touches the Pride Lands kingdom she obeyed and followed after Scar on over to Pride Rock where it's mostly lush terrain and Savannah is theirs for the taking to do whatever they wish with it with who knows if or when Jasiri may return...

One year later...

While Pinkie, Bunga, Rainbow, and Kyoga were all out in Griffonstone, the Lion and Pony Guard had an interesting day themselves…

“Buffalo! Slow down!” Kion shouted after them as they are finding themselves overwhelmed by the extremely bothersome black flies hovering over their heads relentlessly.

“It's the tsetse flies!” Ono stated why. “This is the most I've ever seen!”

“And rather rude if I do say so myself!” Rarity also shouted wearing her fancy sunhat and spraying bug spray on herself while keeping pace with everyone.

“They won't stop until they get some relief.” Twilight also said while running beside the buffaloes up front opposite from Kion.

Knowing that they need a quick solve and that Rainbow is around to perform one of her famous twister to send them away from the Pride Lands, Ono spoke his mind of what he knows. “Well, tsetse flies aren't very fond of water.”

“Of course!” Kion realized of a way that can come through. “Ono, find some water! We'll need enough to hold the herd!”

“And fast!” Twilight stated for emphasis.

Ono getting the message quickly flew up and managed to find a nearby body of water. “There's a river not far from here!”

“Perfect! Lead the way!”

“This way, everybody!”

With both leaders of the Lion Guard up front to guide them, the buffalo herd made their way on towards the nearby river up ahead, along with coming across the zebra herd once more…

“What is that?” Their clueless leader asked upon hearing the ruckus.

“Zebras! Out of the way!” Kion shouted in their direction.

But the message did not get properly received to the oblivious zebra. “Kion, can't you lead those buffalo somewhere else? We're eating here!”

“I said move!” Twilight shouted before flying ahead and whisking the entire herd out of harm’s way forcibly just before any of them could get trampled.

“Well, you don't have to be rude about it.” Thurston scoffed under his breath.

“I heard that!”

Thurston’s eyes widen in response before uttering a small yelp in fright before moving to another grassy patch nearby the river while the buffalo herd could all take a breather in the river.

“Phew…” Rarity’s expressed relief even while she’s drying her sunhat. “…of all times to get wet, at least I can say this is one of those times I can accept it.”

“Me too.” Fuli agreed. “I never thought I'd be so happy to get soaked.”

“Guess the flies like the water even less than you, Fuli, Rarity.” Kion commented in delight. “They're gone!”

Just then they heard another desperate cry for help.

“Help! So many flies!” Mbeyea shouted from nearby.

“That sounds like Mbeya.” Beshte said upon recognizing his voice.

“Now we know where the little varmints went.” Applejack commented before both Twilight lead the team on towards his direction.

“Let's go!” Both leaders stated in unison with the rest of the team following after them.

Meanwhile in the Outlands, the hyenas have been doing some searching around in the Outlands and two out of three are doing quite some interesting searching. Particularly, Cheezi and Chungu both looking under rocks. Small rocks.

“Huh. No jackals under here.”

“What are we gonna do with the jackals when we find 'em, anyway?

“Can we eat 'em?”

Their leader was adamantly against their stupid proposal. “No, fur brain. Scar wants us to talk to 'em and see how their recent spying on the Pride Landers has been going along. See if there’s anything new on the Lion and Pony Guard that’s worth investing in.”

“Then can we eat 'em?” Chungu stupidly asked once more.

“Janja!” A familiar female voice called out to him.

“Jasiri?” Janja said back surprised to see the hyena herself right in front of him as if she was not expected to be here in the first place.

“What are you doing on my turf?”

“Your turf? Since when?”

“Since...Now.” She chuckled as she literally made her mark on the rocks she was standing on. “Oh. Did you forget to mark your turf for the dry season? Too bad. Now you're in my territory.” Janja just looks on exasperated at her while mentally berating himself for not reminding himself to re-mark his turf and thought Jasiri was dealt with when Scar took over. “But you're welcome to pass through if you'd like.”

“Pass through?” Janja looked on as if she was making it easy on him on purpose. “Is that a challenge or an insult?”

“Take it any way you’d like.” She smugly replied.

Now Janja felt tempted to want to do this the hard way. “Think I'd rather take it back!”

“Have it your way!”

Janja furiously lunged at her, only for the quicker hyena to leap up and pin him down to the ground effortlessly. Both Cheezi and Chungu both moved to charge right at her, only to be both kicked aside in two seconds flat.

Using this brief moment of distraction, Janja was able to reverse the pin Jasiri had her in.

“Got ya now, Jasiri.”

“You think?”

Jasiri managed to easily push the male hyena off of her and then head-butted him away.

“Ow! Hey! Cut it out!”

“Sure. Just stop fighting me and go back the way you came.”

“Oh, I didn’t come all this way just to lose to you, Jasiri.” Janja snarled still not giving up. He’s not about to disappoint his master again nor tip her off on something that the Lion and Pony Guard don’t know yet. “I got other’s who are waiting to meet with me. So if you’ll excuse me…” He charged right at her with a leaping attack. Jasiri prepared herself for the attack only to be caught off guard when he immediately ducked low and slammed her into her chest to slam her hard into the nearby rocks, thus knocking her out cold. “…me and my boys got get on by. Oh and by the way…” He then whispered in her unconscious head as he scratched the nearby dirt with four claw marks as opposed to the two Jasiri just used a minute ago. “…it’s my turf now.”

Elsewhere in the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard had managed to find their rhino friend, with his horn stuck in the ground while upside down in the dry stream bed.

“This is so embarrassing.” He said while the tsetse flies all hover around them.

“Don't worry, Mbeya. We'll get you out of there.” Kion assured before he turned to both the Guard’s Strongest. “Beshte, Applejack...”

They move to do so with the hippo using his head while the farm pony used her front legs to do the job.

“Here we go rhino!”

“Twende Kiboko!”

With an instant push and roll, Mbeya was now free again. “Thank you so much!”

“Sure thing, Mbeya.”

“Anything for a friend in need, partner.”

The two kindly returned with Applejack tipped her hat to him.

“Oh my…” Fluttershy spoke feeling pity for him. “How did you get stuck in there?”

“It's these flies! I tried rolling in the dirt to get them off, but I rolled into the stream bed instead.”

“Don’t worry, Mbeya.” Twilight assured. “You’re not the only one who’s been experiencing this problem. This pretty much has been the case all day today.”

“Come on…” Kion began leading Mbeya away from the dried out area. “…We'll take you to a watering hole. It'll help keep the flies away.”

“Ugh.” Rarity moaned while trying her hardest to spray more bug spray on herself to avoid getting bitten by these nasty and vicious bugs. “At least Pinkie and Bunga aren’t around to join in on this not that they even has the appetite to stomach all of this…” She said to herself as if not having the entire around to help them out isn’t bad enough during a tough final stretch left in the dry season.

Sometime later, in the Outlands Volcano where both Starlight and Ushari are both awaiting the hyenas return for their report.

“So…” Starlight gestured with her left front hoof towards them to start talking. “…what did the jackals have to say?”

“Assuming that your findings are truly useful.” Ushari added expecting nothing out of this knowing Janja himself.

“For the record they are useful, okay!” Janja quickly and irritably returned in the cobra’s direction. “…For starts, at least the Lion and Pony Guard do not suspect anything that’s worth pursuing an investigation on over here. As for the Lion and Pony Guard themselves, Reirei informed me that Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, and Kyoga are all out solving a friendship problem in Griffonstone and are gone for today.”

“Are they?” Starlight asked to which Janja nodded in response. “And Applejack?”

“Still limping around because of her earlier injuries, still got a ways to go in terms of recovery if that’s what you’re thinking.”

“Interesting.” Starlight along with Ushari felt pleased with his findings.

“Anything else you’d like to add while you’re at it?” Ushari inquired to ensure that everything is all covered.

Janja shook his head in response. “Nope. That’s just about it.”

“But boss...” Cheezi spoke up to say otherwise. “…we also found Jasiri too we were out there.”

“And she's the one who nearly sent us back here!” Chungu added much to their leader’s annoyance at their inability to keep their mouths shut.

“Wow, why am I not surprised?” Starlight commented rather dryly.

“I'm sorry, did you say one hyena nearly defeated all three of you?” Ushari then asked in disbelief with their growing incompetence.

“Hey, Jasiri's no ordinary hyena.” Janja quickly said in self-defense. “She's fearless or something.”

Upon hearing this, Scar in his fiery glory decided to appear before them to chime in on the conversation. “A fearless hyena?” He smiles upon seeing potential in her. “Perhaps, she should be part of our collective.”

Janja was quick to shoot that idea down. “What? No. No way. Jasiri's bad news. She's even friends with the Lion and Pony Guard!”

“Friends with the Lion and Pony Guard?”

To Scar, this was new news to him as Twilight never told him about that.

“Oh, yeah. She even respects the circle of life like they do. Trust me, Scar, Jasiri's the worst!”

He along with his two lackeys all moved to sing about Jasiri all while demeaning her positive qualities and traits as the opposite of good.

Worst Hyena We Know

After hearing everything he needs to hear, Scar then frowned at the potential threat this has for what he is planning. Especially since he had just managed to chase her off out of the Outlands once before. “We cannot have an ally of the Lion and Pony Guard, here in the Outlands. Get rid of her. Immediately.”

Janja widen his eyes in surprise at the order itself but still moved to obey out of respect for his boss even if he seemed uncomfortable at pressing forward with attempted murder. “Oh? Uh, yeah. Sure thing.”

“But take your entire clan.” He firmly added not wanting Janja to take any chances with her next time around. “She's obviously and nearly more than a match for the three of you!”

“Yeah, yeah! The whole clan. You got it, Scar!” Janja and his buddies moved to leave the caldera so they can carry out his orders.

“And, Janja...” Scar called out to him to stop him in dead in his tracks, all with fear in his lowered ears. “Don't disappoint me again.” He coldly added to make what will happen should another failure come to light again.

Janja nervously gulped in response as he stammered in his next words. “No. I mean, uh, yeah. I mean... Let's go, boys!” He quickly scurried his way on out before anything else could happen.

After the hyenas had left, Scar turned to Starlight deciding that he needs to take more precautionary measures in order to ensure that all goes accordingly. “Go after them, they’re going need your help if they’re going to able to carry out this task.”

“Will do, Scar.” She nodded and obeyed without questioning it. “At least I’ll finally be able to get to do something for the first time in a while hiding in the shadows here.”

“And remember Starlight…” Scar spoke up to stop her before she too could leave. “…do it without being seen by the Lion and Pony Guard. I don’t want anyone in the Pride Lands to know that I’m still around and pose a threat to them...at least not yet.”

“Of course.” She nodded again, earning herself an approving smile from the evil lion before leaving the caldera too.

Meanwhile back in the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard are all escorting Mbeya on over to the nearby river so he can relief from the tsetse flies that are all still hovering around them much to the poor rhino’s discomfort.

“Can't the Lion and Pony Guard do something to get rid of these flies?” He desperately asked of them.

“I wish.” Fuli scoffed while getting annoyed and uncomfortable with their presence.

Rarity trying her hardest to be helpful tried putting bug spray on their friend, with the only success coming out of it was the flies were no longer invading their personal space, but that was it. “If only they had created a stronger repellent then this wish would be granted sooner than Discord can snap his fingers.”

“I know what you mean Rarity…” Applejack said with sympathy. “It'd be great if we could just shout, "Flies, go away!" And...” Suddenly the flies all moved the heck out of dodge. “What in tarnation?!”

“Poa!” Beshte spoke feeling very impressed himself. “AJ, how'd you do that?”

“To be honest, I don’t know how.” She replied still stunned that actually worked as it seems.

“Excuse me.” Thurston spoke up sounding rather demanding. “Where are we zebras supposed to drink? Someone filled the river with buffalo.”

“Of course!” Ono realized. “The flies didn't leave because Beshte told them to, they've left because the zebras showed up! That's why they left down by the river, too!”

“You mean the flies don't like zebras?” Fuli asked.

“They don't like the zebra's stripes.” Ono clarified. “Common knowledge, really, though, nobody knows why.”

“Well as long as they are all gone for now that’s good enough for me.” Rarity said as she this as a good opportunity to put lotion all over her white coat so she can get some much needed relief from having to deal with those flies.

“So, if we stick with the zebras, we won't have to deal with the flies?” Twilight asked toe which Ono nodded in response. Hearing this had Twilight turning to the zebra who stick has a bone to pick with her after her reformation in a humble manner. “So in answer to your question, we'll take you to the nearest watering hole. Mbeya, too. Come on!”

Thurston felt very pleased to hear and see this. “A Lion and Pony Guard escort? Well, I suppose it's only fitting.”

“Don’t get too accustomed to it.” The princess lightly warned with a glance in his direction.

In the Outlands, on Jasiri’s newly reclaimed turf since Scar's defeat, the heroic hyena herself is currently hiding behind some rocks while spotting two hyena cubs laughing and playing with one another. In an instant she emerged from her hiding spot.

“Ha!”

They both paused in surprise for a moment before resuming their laughing since this is just a friendly game of hide and seek. A game that really helps keeps Jasiri cheerful during her spare time.

“You found us!” The hyena that resembles Jasiri’s color design the most happily said.

“I did. And now we can all look for Madoa. You ready? Is she here?” She leads the two cubs on over to the nearby tall rocks. “Let's see...”

They moved to all leap over them together.

“Ha!”

But only found an area filled with boiling geysers in front of them.

“Oh, well. Guess we gotta keep looking.”

“We're gonna find you, Madoa!” The other little hyena spoke while unaware that he and the others have all passed by her true hiding place from a nearby opening of rocks that allowed her to watch them and remain out of sight.

While they were searching around the geysers, Janja and his clan are all watching from up high upon arriving.

“Aw, ain't that cute. Jasiri's playin' with cubs.” His smile turned into a determined frown. “Let's get 'em all.” Cheezi and Chungu moved to take cover for the nearby rocks while Janja remains to draw out her attention towards him. “Jasiri!”

“Back so soon, Janja?” Jasiri asked while she and the cubs are unaware that the other two hyenas are sneaking up from behind. “I already told you, this is my turf now.” It’s normal to her for Janja to want to fight to take back his turf, but now he wants more than that? "What has gotten into him now?" She thought to herself as he finds the sheer numbers Janja has brought with him for this particular encounter.

“Oh this ain't about turf, Jasiri.” Janja said while most of his clan appears from behind. “I told ya this wasn't over. Get her.”

Jasiri growled in response before being drawn to the kids cries for help.

“Jasiri!” They both screamed while being pursed by both Cheezi and Chungu.

“Slow down, kids!”

“No! Leave them alone!” She shouted after them before finding herself surrounded by the clan not pursing them. “They're only cubs!”

One of them tried to pounce upon her but she was able to effortlessly kick him off before kicking aside the others cornering her. She quickly pursed both Cheezi and Chungu and was able to knock them aside before they could even lay a paw on them.

“No!” She screamed upon saving them.

Unfortunately for her, that was just the opening Janja was looking for before he leaped in knocked her aside right into the nearby steam vent thus trapping them inside.

“No!” Madoa who was watching this horrifying scene unfold gasped while Janja cackled in triumph.

“I'll get you for this, Janja!” Jasiri angrily vowed to the now cocky hyena.

“You ain't gonna get nobody, Jasiri. You're stuck down there.” He stated just when he and the others circled around the vent. “Gather 'round, boys! What do you say we stick around and see what happens next? Should be very entertaining.”

“There's too many of them. Our clan can't fight them without Jasiri. I need the Lion and Pony Guard along with whoever their new leaders are. Oh, I really hope they can help us.”

Before Madoa could move to seek out their help she finds herself hoisted up in the air by an unseen source of magic.

“I’m afraid the Lion and Pony Guard won’t be around to help you this time.” Starlight’s voice spoke to the startled hyena before tossing her into the steam vent alongside the others. “And neither will you.”

While everyone trapped in the vent was left wondering of who that strange voice was, Janja and his clan already know, not that they plan on telling her anyways.

As luck would have it, a curious and worried pair of eyes was seen watching from afar before scurrying away from the scene.

Back in the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard are currently standing by the zebra herd where they are listening to the zebra going on non-stop with tall tales that are quite obvious due to his personality and claims.

“And in my fifth dry season, I fought off a leopard. That's how I earned the stripes on my backside.” He moved his rear end to show everyone. “See?”

Beshte and Fluttershy looked on impressed while Applejack and Twilight were both just agreeing and going along with it, not because they truly believed him.

“Poa.”

“Wow.”

“Sounds interesting.”

“Yeah, quite the stretch there.”

Thurston then turned his rear end towards the others. “Did you get a good look?”

Kion looked away with disgust while Fuli and Rarity looked aside equally disturbed with the unicorn practically imploring of him that he’d stop.

“Yeah, we can see it fine from here.”

“And could please turn that around? I don’t need the see this moon of your’s anymore.”

Ono practically groaned clearly annoyed by his outlandish tales at this point. “Zebras don't earn their stripes. They're born with them.”

“Are you a zebra?” Thurston inquired back while scoffing in the face of logic.

“No, obviously.”

“Then how could you possibly know?”

Ono was left exasperated by how he was acting. “Wait, what? But...” He groans before deciding to drop it and fly away.

“Where are you going, Ono?” Kion asked.

“Back to the flies. They're less annoying.” Sure that had him surrounded by them along with squawking, coughing, and spitting them out, but it beats putting up a zebra who barks more than he bites.

Just then, the Lion and Pony Guard heard an audible voice calling in their direction. “Psst.”

Twilight widen her eyes upon hearing that before moving on over to towards the tree to where the voice can from.

“The hyena has spots on it's back.” A female voice whispered into her ear as the rest of the gathered in on Twilight who seems to understand what she is being told.

“But because the tiger has stripes, spots it lack's.”

“What?”

“Huh?”

Both Kion and Fluttershy expressed in confusion.

“It’s okay, you can show yourself.” Twilight assured the voice before she appeared in her reptile flesh.

“Okay you got me.”

Upon seeing this chameleon had every amazed with her neat appearance trick.

“Poa.”

“Amazing.”

“Well I’ll be darn tootin.”

“A chameleon.”

Beshte, Fuli, Applejack, Rarity all expressed with delighted surprise all while Fluttershy wastes no time gushing all over her.

“So cute!” She said with nearly nose to nose with her all while making the poor girl uncomfortable.

“Easy, Fluttershy.” Twilight said while gently getting her to back up before moving to introduce her to the team…

…just before Thurston spotted her and however reacted differently. “Panic and Run! Panic and…”

“No!” Kion quickly stopped him before it could spiral out of control again. “This chameleon is Twilight’s friend. Just stay calm, stay here, and keep the flies away.”

“Oh. Well... Very well. But it's not the zebra way.”

With that out of the way, Twilight moved to formally introduce and gesture the chameleon to her friends one by one. “Everyone, this Kinyonga. Kinyonga, meet the Lion and Pony Guard. Honest Applejack, Strong Beshte, Brave Bunga, Fast Fuli, Leader of the Lion Guard Kion, Keen-sighted Ono, Fashion aficionado Rarity, and of course animal-lover Fluttershy.”

“Hi.”

“Hello, partner.”

“Hey!”

“Nice to meet you.”

“Fascinating to meet new friend as always, darling.”

Beshte, Applejack, Kion, Fuli, Rarity all greeted with Kion being busy restraining Fluttershy knowing of the latter’s overly-eager desire to observe her.

“And as much as I like to get to really know you, what brings you here, and why are you coming to Twilight in secret.”

“Because I didn’t want to be seen by anyone and I’m here to relay to her an emergency going on in the Outlands.” Kinyonga nervously explained before turning to the friend she came to. “That mean hyena Janja has both Jasiri and Madoa trapped in a steam vent. And Wema and Tunu are in there with them.”

"Jasiri?" Both Kion and Twilight asked very surprised to hear that she is around and back.

"Madoa?"

“And the two little cubs?”

Kinyonga nodded in response to both Beshte and Fluttershy's question.

“Are they okay?”

Fuli asked in concern.

“I think so, but they're stuck and surrounded by Janja and his clan.”

“Thank you for telling us.” Twilight kindly said to her as she leaned down to her who warmly smiled back equally thankful.

Kion was quick to lead the Guard into action towards the Outlands. “We'll save them, Kinyonga. Just lead the way.”

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Unfortunately, they all found themselves not managing to get far due to the massive tsetse fly infestation hovering all over them causing them to stop in their tracks and relentlessly cough.

“How can we run with all these flies in our faces?” Fuli expressed while coughing.

“You tell me, if we had Rainbow Dash around she’d send those flies far and long gone from here.” Applejack expressed while coughing herself.

Just then thanks to Thurston appearing beside them the teste flies instantly scattered. “Oh, hello, Lion Guard. I was wondering where you went.”

Upon seeing this, Kion started thinking of an idea concerning their annoying ally.

“Something on your mind partner?” Applejack then asked just when Rarity put the pieces together.

“You mean…Oh no.”

“I know what you're thinking, Kion.” Fuli added after getting the same idea.

“Oh, no. You can't be serious.” Ono firmly shook his head against the idea too.

“You guys have a better idea?” Kion asked the others who all had nothing to say in response…

…all but their pondering alicorn princess friend. “Actually yes…” She said while having some black and white paint cans appear in her magic. “…I’ve got a better idea.”

Before anyone could ask they suddenly see her instantly pouring the entire can of white paint on her whole body.

“Twilight, darling!” Rarity gasped in shock. “What on earth are you doing to yourself?!”

“Watch and learn.” She replied while painting on black stripes before walking on ahead.

“But what is painting yourself going to accomplish? Twilight?!” Ono exclaimed in exasperation.

She walked on to see if this will work and amazingly despite how zany the idea is itself, not one singly fly came to hover on over to her once she was out of the zebra’s range.

“Well I’ll be darn tootin!”

“Not a single fly is bothering her!"

Both Applejack and Fuli were the first to express their astonishment over the success of this crazy idea.

“And in case you’re wondering, the answer is simple as this, blending in.” Twilight said to the others before handing them multiple cans of paint. "A white and black stripe paint coating should do the trick.” The others still looked on at her like she is as crazy as Pinkie Pie just when Twilight was quick to firmly state with a sense of urgency. “Come on! Jasiri needs us! Paint yourselves!”

“Okay, okay!” Both Fuli and Rarity were quick to follow suit while both Kion and Applejack both worked together to paint Beshte from head and toe before being doused with the paint themselves courtesy of their alicorn friend.

“You can thank or hate me later.” She replied before turning back to the disguised chameleon and allowed her to ride on her head. “Now lead the way Kinyonga.”

“You got it, Twilight.”

Sometime later, they were all on their way over to the Outlands and have just arrived inside their territory and even there they wasted no time in searching for where their friends in distress are located.

“This way.” Kinyonga instructed while gently tugging on the alicorn’s mane to direct her in the way she is pointing.

Back in the vent they are trapped inside of, Jasiri and Madoa had to quickly shield the kids away when the vent blew dangerously hot steam out. If they weren’t standing safely on the ledge they sure would have gotten burned there.

“What was that?” Tunu worryingly asked.

“A little steam, that's all.” Jasiri gently assured. “Nothing to worry about.”

“At least for now.” Madoa brought up when she saw the rising lava.

Even though it is said with uncertainty, Wema still held onto to the elder hyena’s support. “I'm not worried, as long as we're with you.”

“You see that?” Janja taunted from above as he and his clan all look down upon her. “The steam down there means the vent's gonna blow. Then, bye-bye, Jasiri.” They all proceed to all cackle and laugh at their predicament as the lava starts to rise towards them.

Elsewhere, Ono has flown ahead to use his keen sight to try to spot Janja and his clan.

“How are we doing, Ono?” Kion asked as he ran on the ground.

“We're getting close. The vent's just past that ravine.”

“Great. Lead the way.”

Meanwhile back near the steam vents, the lava is nearly it’s boiling point as it is getting dangerously close to Jasiri and her cubs who are all now increasingly worried they are all not coming out of here alive, and Janja from above sure seems to know it.

“How ya feelin' down there, Jasiri? Hot enough for ya?” He mockingly remarked before turning to his clan. “Well, fur brains, guess one of my plans is finally gonna work.”

“Guess again, Janja.” Kion’s voice shouted to him as he and the Guard finally arrived on the scene.

Janja upon seeing this was exasperated thinking that the Guard would have nothing better to do other than explore for trouble in the Outlands. “Oh, come on. Not you guys.”

Jasiri upon hearing the commotion from above smiled knowing that their prayers for a miracle have been answered.

“Who's up there, Jasiri?” Wema asked.

“Kion. Twilight. And the Lion and Pony Guard.” She happily replied upon hearing their voices and especially Twilight's.

Regardless and determined to ensure his success, Janja and his clan moved to advance on the Lion and Pony Guard present. “You know what, Kion? It don't matter. I got all my guys with me today. Even the smart ones while you are without your speedy flying friend, crazy cuckoo pink friend, and your special magical lioness friend.”

“He means us, right?” Chungu mindlessly asked.

“Uh-huh.” Cheezi confidentially replied.

“There's no way you're savin' Jasiri and the cubs.”

“Oh, yeah?” Twilight asked as if it was a challenge. “Watch us.”

The Lion and Pony Guard all leaped into action with Kion taking on Janja paw to paw while Beshte plowed his way through with Applejack staying close to him for protection. Even though Applejack could walk and run to an extent, she had to use evasive maneuvers against the hyenas since she can’t buck anything with her back legs.

“I'm coming, Jasiri.” Kion called out to the hyena in trouble while pinning Janja down.

But Janja was quick to reverse the pin on him. “Oh, no, you ain't.”

Suddenly, he was knocked off and aside by Twilight with a hoof punch to the face sending him tumbling backwards in front of the nearby steam vents.

Some of the other hyenas scattered before finding themselves face to face with Fuli and Rarity who confidently smirked in their direction.

“You really want to take me on?”

“Along with me?”

“Huwezi.” Fuli quickly ran circles around them while a series of punches were heard inside the cloud of dust. After a few seconds, Fuli stopped and leaped on top of the hyena’s head before skidding to the stop leaving the hyena completely dazed. With one more punch to the face courtesy of the unicorn right in front of him, he dropped to the ground, completely knocked out cold.

“Ha!”

“I may be a lady but I am also an expert of kung-fu!”

“Touche.”

Two more scattered hyena is now pursing both Ono and Fluttershy with the latter trying to avoid the panicking herself.

“Just keep flying, Fluttershy, just for a few more seconds.” Ono encouraged as he spots Bunga from above ready to leap into action.

Once they were lured right over his head, Bunga made his move. “Zuka Zama!” He chuckled as the first hyena dropped down to the ground in pain. “That was fun.”

“Bunga, look out!” Fluttershy shouted upon seeing the second hyena about to attack from behind. Acting quick she flew down as fast as she could and used her tail as a club to knock the hyena out just before he could harm Bunga.

Bunga looked to Fluttershy very amazed with what she just did while she meekly blushed in return.

Janja continued to deck it out with both of the Leaders of the Guard. From wrestling Kion along with dodging every blast of magic Twilight throws at him, he was able to hold his own against them quite well culminating with Kion kicking the hyena leader off of him.

“All right, Kion, Twilight. Now you're both getting me really steamed.” Right on cue steam emerged from the vent he was standing in front of him causing his tail to get singed from the heat it produced and he himself to scream and skid across the ground in pain.

With Janja taken care for now, both Kion and Twilight moved on over to the steam vent where Jasiri, Madoa, and the cubs are trapped inside.

“Jasiri? Are you okay?” Kion asked.

“Oh, we're fine. Would love a little help, though.”

“And fast please.” Madoa added while eyeing the rising lava above them.

“You've got it.” Kion assured before turning to the rest of the team gathering alongside them. “We have to do something. The lava's rising fast.”

Bunga was quick to come with one. “Easy. Roar into the vent and blow the lava away.”

“And blow Jasiri and the cubs away, too?” Fuli inquired with a look like he is being crazy to even suggest that idea.

“Ooh.” He realized the major flaw in his attempted suggestion. “Okay. Maybe something else then.”

Before anyone could Ono quickly spotted something from above. “Hapana. Kion, look out.”

One of the hyenas appeared on the ledge behind him and was about strike him when Twilight pushed her friend aside and sent a powerful blast to send his would be attacker flying halfway across the Outlands.

After blowing the smoke from her horn she spoke of an even better idea. “Easy, we have two ponies that can fly and two can use magic.”

“But…but what if I make a mistake before the lava gets to them.” Fluttershy worryingly spoke with her eyes focused on the rising lava. “And Rarity too.”

“Then we’ll need some an extra layer of protection.” Kion suggested as he spotted an idea to combine with Twilight when he spotted a nearby rock slab. “Beshte, I have an idea.”

Just then Janja and his clan minus one appeared ready to resume their fight. “We ain't done with you yet, Lion and Pony Guard.”

“You'll wish you were, Janja.” Kion retorted while he, Fuli, Bunga, Applejack, and Ono all got ready to resume the action. Before doing so, the Lion Guard leader turned to the Guard’s Strongest. “Beshte, you know what to do.” He nodded in response alongside Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity. “Now!”

Those continuing the fight all let out a yell as they all leaped in action while the others moved to rescue Jasiri and the cubs.

“Okay, everyone…” Twilight called out to the four trapped inside. “…we’re coming to get you.” With sheer bravery she flew inside the vent. “Climb aboard, kids.”

Initially reluctant and nervously hesitation, they both moved to hop on the alicorn’s back before she moved to quickly fly up out of the vent and up to safety while Rarity worked her magic in levitating Madoa out of the vent herself.

She tried her hardest to lift her upwards but she is having a difficult time doing so due to not having excelling magic on par with Twilight's.

After seeing the cubs are safely out of harm’s way. Beshte moved to carry out his turn to save Jasiri. “Incoming rock. Look out for the splash.”

“Uh, okay.”

“Twende Kiboko.” With a careful but firm push, Beshte was able to push the rock into the vent and on top of the lava thus allowing Jasiri a means to escape certain death.

“Brilliant.”

And at the same time, with one strong push from each member of the Lion and Pony Guard fighting Janja and his clan, they were each able to force each and every remaining hyena a small distance away. Upon seeing they are outmatched, all but Janja retreated.

“You're all alone, Janja. You lose.” Kion told the sole hyena still not backing down.

“Huh?” He turns and sees his clan are running for the hills before turning back with an undeterred smile. “So? I don't see Jasiri nowhere. And that means I win.“

“Look again, Janja.” Jasiri announced as her ride emerged at the top of the vent before she, Madoa, Wema, Tunu, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Beshte moved to join the others alongside them ready to overpower the hyena leader if necessary. “You really want to fight all of us by yourself?”

Janja grumbled in response. He could not believe he truly lost even with every single hyena on Jasiri’s side trapped inside the vent with no way of warning the Lion and Pony Guard from nearby.

“Fine. But this ain't over, Jasiri.”

He moved to retreat to never be seen again for the rest of the day with the only question on his mind is being how? How did the Lion and Pony Guard get tipped off that Jasiri was in danger? It didn’t matter now, he lost and is now going to have to explain to Scar how he ended losing a task he had in the bag and is sure going to be a dead hyena walking going forward even more so than last time.

After the danger had passed, Jasiri smiled at her saviors. “Asante, Lion and Pony Guard. Thanks.”

“Happy to help.”

“We’re just glad we got here in time.”

The two leaders humbly returned.

"Better late than never." Jasiri said before turning to Twilight looking on greatly relieved to see her alive and well. "And to think all this time I thought that you were in danger, Twilight."

"In danger from what?" She asked looking confused.

"From Scar." She answered much to everyone's confused concern wondering what she is talking about before she moved to recall the time they have spent away from the Outlands and the Pride Lands. "After he took over the Pride Lands and sent all of your friends fleeing, we too had escaped the Outlands seeking shelter and safety from Scar so we could raise the cubs properly. We spent days traveling around nearby savanna's for shelter and assistance but because we're hyenas, their residents weren't willing to give us a chance to fit in or hear us out. Before any of us knew it the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months. Then one day we decided to return to the Outlands with the hopes of finding and rescuing you. But we couldn't find you. We even looked every part of the Outlands and took one good look at the Pride Lands when it was all losing life and hope. We thought Scar had already killed you and that there was nothing left to fight for."

She recalled doing just that with with her clan as they look on in sadness and horror at the devastation Scar's rule had brought upon to the Pride Lands again before turning away from the Outlands ready to leave for good before being stopped in their tracks when a big bright light. Seeing that had them investigating the source of it, so they went back into the Outlands to find out what. By the time they were able to get high enough to see where it came from they only saw a defeated Scar flying away from the scene just after being drained of his powers. Along with a distant look at the Lion and Pony Guard minus their leaders getting together at Pride Rock feeling victorious yet sad as at the same time it was when it seemed Kion had died at that moment.

"Oh, you saw." Kion realized in the present what she is referring to.

"Yes. And even about hearing that we could return to the Outlands I still could not feel completely at peace knowing that I couldn't do enough to help protect you both."

"Oh, Jasiri. I'm so sorry." Twilight apologized. "I had no idea you felt that way all this time."

"It's okay, Twilight." Jasiri reassured all is good now. "I mean it's not like you had anything to do with it, right?"

"Um..." Twilight shifted her eyes around in a mixture of guilt and unease to which everyone else could tell why she is reacting like this. "...actually, I did. Both as a hero and a villain."

The kids gasped in shock upon hearing that.

"Easy..." Madoa was quick to calm them down. "...Twilight is still our friend not an enemy."

"She's right, kids." Jasiri agreed before turning back to the princess. "But still, why?"

"Long story short, I reacted badly to some friendship issues I had in the days leading up to Scar's takeover along with having a dark influence into making those decisions. Took a while for me to come around and pull through when it mattered the most."

"Is that why you have that scar over your face?"

"Yep."

"And is he the reason why Kion is..."

"A half alicorn, yep. I know it's hard to believe but it really happened." Kion replied now used to his wings as he spread them out much to the kid's fascination.

"Ooh."

"Aah."

"Wow." For the four hyenas it was a lot to take in, especially for Jasiri. "Well I'm glad you came around and defeated Scar when someone really needed a hero like you around."

"I feel the same way." Twilight smiled in agreement with that statement.

“But still..." She spoke up still stirred up by the chaos that went down today. "...It's weird. I know Janja was trying to win back his turf, but this was more than that. He was really out to get me.”

“I know.” Madoa agreed. “What’s even more weird was when I was about to find help, I was suddenly whisked inside the vent alongside you. Like I was being controlled by unseen magic from nearby.”

“Really?” Twilight was highly surprised to hear that. “You didn’t get a glimpse of who did it?”

“No.”

“That’s really weird.” Kion said before theorizing Janja’s behavior. "And as for Janja, It's the dry season. It makes animals do crazy things sometimes.”

“I don’t know…” Twilight said otherwise as she looked ahead where Janja and his clan were last spotted. “…if you ask me, I might be sometime more than just a one-time crazy thing.”

“Like what?”

“Like someone else was behind this.” Twilight replied while trying to put the pieces together of who else would want her dead.

“Like Scar?” Bunga curiously asked.

“But he’s in prison and without his magic.” Beshte pointed out. “How could he get in contact with Janja if he has no magic to work with?”

“I don’t know…” As much as it sounds about right, she can’t put her hoof on how he did if that’s true before turning to Jasiri. “…but I going to strongly advise to you that you steer clear of Janja’s turf, just to be safe.”

“Okay, Twilight…” Jasiri agreed it is for the best before smiling and leading the kids away. “…probably for the best I should take these cubs back to the clan and distance the clan from Janja’s turf. See you next time, Lion and Pony Guard.”

“Bye, Lion and Pony Guard. Thank you.” The cubs happily returned before following after Jasiri.

“Goodbye.” They all called after them as they parted ways.

With their services here complete, Kion moved to lead the Lion and Pony Guard back to the Pride Lands. “Okay, everybody, let's go home.”

Upon arriving back in the Pride Lands, they have approached the zebras current grazing grounds just when they were suddenly greeted by three familiar faces.

“Guys, girls!” Pinkie cheerfully greeted before rushing over and tackled everyone for a group hug. “We’re back!”

“I can tell!” Kion smiled as she hugged them tightly.

“And I take it your trip went well?” Twilight asked just when Rainbow was the next to show up before them.

“It sure did.” The rainbow-maned Pegasus happily replied as she took notice of the black and white paint on everyone’s bodies. “And I can see you all had an equally awesome time in the Pride Lands.”

“Yeah…” Pinkie examined the paint herself. “…spending the day having fun with the zebras?”

“Close…” Fuli answered while shaking her head. “It was more like trying out a little camouflage in trying to save some friends in the Outlands.”

“Jasiri!” Rainbow groaned upon hearing that she missed out on a rescue mission for one of her friends in the Outlands. “Aw man!”

“It’ll be okay, partner.” Applejack reassured. “There will always be more chances to see her in the future.”

“And look at it this way…” Kyoga said with a grin. “…it’s not like we're going to be hanging out with the zebras.” Instantly the flies swarmed around her Pinkie, and Rainbow. “Of course I wind up speaking too soon.”

“Not to worry, I got just the solution.” Pinkie chimed in before pulling out some more black and white paint from behind her mane before dumping it all over herself, Rainbow, and Kyoga. Once she painted themselves to look just like the zebras, the flies all dispersed once more. “Good thing I always carry that around because boy those flies are nasty little buggers.” She giggled to herself.

“And suddenly where this whole paint job came from all makes sense.” Ono commented as he turned his eyes to both Twilight and Pinkie before settling in on the former.

“I mean…” Twilight innocently defended with a shrug. “…you got to admit, her crazy ideas do actually work once every while.”

“You mean actually used my idea?!” Pinkie squeed with excitement before hugging her friend tightly once more. “Oh I just knew you would someday!”

Twilight giggled in response as she didn’t try to break herself free from the embrace no matter how tight it was for her. “What can I say? You have inspired me in a way.”

Everyone else all chuckled and laughed in response just knowing how true it is, for all of her craziness, Pinkie sure is the embodiment of cheer and laughs amongst the team.

Episode 12: The Ukumbusho Tradition

Episode 12:

The Ukumbusho Tradition

At Mizimu Grove, the elephants in the Pride Lands are all hard at work. From pulling loose leaves, pushing away old logs, sweeping up unwanted dust, and pulling aside loose branches, they really wanted to make sure this place is all tidied up for what they are preparing here.

“Careful with that branch!” Ma Tembo instructed the young elephant who plucked a few leaves off if it. “Remember, it represents peace!” She then spots a fully grown elephant bringing up more fruit to the pile they have put together. “Put the mango for the Peace Paint with the rest of the fruit.” She then feels a lot of dust of the rocks she is standing on. “And will someone please make sure that the rocks are clear of dirt?”

It was there the Lion and Pony Guard had arrived to check up on them with Rarity having equipment for a movie shooting in her saddlebag ready to help make it into a recorded film for all eyes to see.

“Quite an operation.” Ono commented.

“Totally!” Fuli agreed.

“Sure is heck of a rodeo here.” Applejack added.

“What do the elephants call this ceremony again?” Bunga asked.

Rainbow tried to pipe in with… “Kuba... Kubamusho?”

“Ukumbusho.” Kion answered. “It's a performance that celebrates the friendship between the elephants and the lions of the Pride Lands.”

“Ooh! Fascinating!” Pinkie gleefully remarked before turning to the Princess of Friendship. “You know Twilight, you should probably consider putting together a Friendship Festival of some kind together sometime soon. That way we could celebrate of how friendship has changed and combined both worlds into one big happy family!” She ended her happy ramble with another tight hug for the alicorn.

After breaking apart from the hug, Twilight replied. “I’ll give it some thought.” She said wanting to focus more on what celebration they are dealing with today though she did think to herself. “Come to think of it, it’s actually a great idea! I really should consider it.”

At that point Makini had arrived. “Scuse me, Lion and Pony Guard. Comin' through. Sorry I'm late, Ma Tembo.”

“Makini, you're here.” She kindly greeted.

“Rafiki just told me I'll be painting the elephants for the Ukumbusho. It's so exciting!”

“Yes, and we've gathered plenty of fruit for you to make the Peace Paint.”

“Really?” Applejack spoke up quite surprised herself earning herself a disapproving glance from Rarity.

“Of course, Applejack.” Ma Tembo kindly replied. “It’s part of our tradition to use the color of the fruit to use to paint ourselves for the ceremony.”

Before Applejack could speak up, Rarity quickly spoke up while placing a firm hoof over the earth pony’s chest. “And it is quite a lovely one, I never could have imagined such a divine and fruitful idea of color.”

“Thank you, Rarity.” While the elephant’s back was turned, Rarity frowned in the orange earth pony’s direction to get the silent message for her to refrain from throwing further questions about it for the time being. Though Applejack stubbornly yet reluctantly obliged she did not hesitate to frown back at her. Clearly she doesn’t understand why questioning tradition is such a big deal with all things considered since the two worlds moved to become one but it was perfectly clear that now isn’t the time or place to do so.

“Oh, thank you, Ma Tembo!” Makini happily expressed her gratitude towards Ma Tembo. “I'll get to work making the paint right now!”

While Rafiki’s apprentice moved to get to work, both Kion and Twilight moved to approach Ma Tembo to compliment her for the smooth process in taking charge to get everything all set up nicely so far.

“Looking good, Ma Tembo.”

“Everyone’s going to love it!”

Though the matriarch of the herd felt uncertain and stressed deep down. “I hope so. When I was little, we had the Ukumbusho every year. So many wonderful memories. And now that we have a new Lion Guard to play the original Lion Guard, the tradition can continue. Are you all ready for your parts?”

“Absolutely. Right, guys?”

While Kion was 100% positive about it, the rest of the Lion Guard however, wasn’t sharing the same enthusiasm. In fact, it took a few extra seconds for them to respond.

“Totally.

“Affirmative.

“Okay.”

“Excellent. You can practice over there.”

Just then Mtoto came running over to the group. “Beshte! Applejack! Guess what! Me and my mom are gonna be in the Ukumbuso performance tonight, too. She gets to be the bravest elephant and I get to be the strongest.”

“Poa!”

“Well I’ll be darn tootin! Congratulations, Mtoto!”

“And I'm sure you'll be great.”

While Twilight, Kyoga, and Rarity moved to help the Lion Guard rehearse for their parts, Applejack and Rainbow Dash moved to help with the speedy clean-up, while Pinkie and Fluttershy moved to check up Makini putting together the paint from the fruit she was provided with.

“Oh, they're all so beautiful...” Makini commented as she looked on at her choices.

Just then Zito one of the grumpier elephants came over to her in an urgent manner. “Makini, we need to get painted. Soon! The show starts at moonrise.”

“Easy, Zito. You’ll get painted soon enough. You just need to be patient while Makini gets everything all put together.”

“Yeah!” Pinkie chimed trying to put effort into getting the elephant to smile. “Give her a little more time before stepping in line.”

“Okay, okay…sorry.” Zito relented before backing off for the time being.

“Fear not, elephant!” Pinkie assured. “Pretty soon you’ll be as yellow and braver than Fluttershy!”

“Hey!”

“Oh lighten up silly filly!” Pinkie returned by patting her on the head. “We all know you’re a big girl!”

“Even though I’m a year older than you.” Fluttershy returned still feeling very annoyed on par with when she did the same thing during Gilda's party a while ago. She then smiled and dropped the subject for now before moving to talk to the young mandrill still deciding on what colors to use. “So…what you are thinking, Makini? Is everything okay?”

“Yes.”

“Except?”

“Except…” The stress over the situation was starting to sink a little. “I don’t know what color to make first. Orange? Green? Yellow?”

“Well if it helps, I don’t think it matters which color you start with.”

“Yeah!” Pinkie chimed in as she appeared suddenly by the mandrill’s side. “Just do what you do best, just go by feel, you know, go with the flow.” She added while making literal motions like she is riding a tidal wave and arms wiggling as she moved them.

Instantly, it eased her nerves as she got the idea. “Oh…” She moved to use both Twilight and Cadance’s deep breathing technique before continuing. “…Shwari. If there's no right place to start, then there's no wrong place to start.”

Twilight having watched this, smiled in approval before turning back to the Lion Guard still in their rehearsal space.

“Can't elephants and lions live together in peace?” Kion said his line in a deep voice only to turn back after a long pause. “I said... "Can't elephants and lions live together in peace?" And you say...”

“Fuli…” Rarity hushed, now wearing a director hat and sitting in a fashionable chair with a megaphone in her hooves.

“I know. I know.” Fuli moved to speak her line next though really fast on par with Pinkie Pie when she’s really super excited and talkative. “Of course, we can. We are both noble animals who believe in peace.”

“Cut!” Rarity shouted while waving her arm in the air like she is talking to someone else on set.

“Rarity, there’s no one else working here.” Kyoga pointed out while holding a video camera the former brought here.

“True, but that’s what you say when you’re not rolling a scene otherwise they’ll getting into character at the wrong time and place.” She insisted before turning back to Fuli. “And as for you darling, I think you need to be more about getting the feeling of your character.”

“Should I do it faster?”

“No, of course not.” Twilight shook her head as she moved to give her some advice she can use. “I mean just do it like you’re talking like it is you being you and not like Pinkie Pie.”

“What’s not to like about me?” Said pink pony appeared very curious of what was said behind her back.

“Nothing! You’re an excellent friend no pony could ask for.”

“I know right!” Pinkie tightly hugged Twilight once more before rushing back over with both Fluttershy and Makini.

Just then Ma Tembo approached to check up on them. “Not exactly how I remember the Ukumbusho of my youth.” She commented on what she saw so far.

“I know it seems kinda rough now...” Kion tried to explain in a positive manner…

“Which is why we're here.” A certain meerkat said upon arriving while riding on Pumbaa’s back.

“Oh, we came as soon as we heard the Ukumbusho was back on!”

“Theatrics are our specialty!”

“Nobody does drama like Timon!”

“Honestly, Ma Tembo, I don't know why you didn't ask us to help in the first place.”

“I think I know why...” She sees Rarity suddenly shaking her head against the idea just knowing exactly what these two wanted to do. “But right now, I'll take all the help I can get.” The unicorn director grunted and face-hoofed herself in response.

Feeling pleased that he is on board with the production, Timon moved to have his say towards ‘his’ actors. “All right, Lion Guard, listen up. You may be good at stopping rock slides and vicious predators. But this is serious. Do ya hear me?”

Suddenly a thought occurred to Ma Tembo. “Oh, no. I can't believe I didn't think of this.“

“Think of what, Ma Tembo?” Twilight asked.

“It's just been so long since we've had an Ukumbusho. Naturally we can't celebrate peace with the lions without the Lion Guard.”

“Lucky for you, the Lion Guard's here.” Bunga quickly assured while flexing his muscles. “And even luckier, we're an un-Bunga-lievable Lion Guard!”

But that wasn’t the point Ma Tembo was trying to make here. “Yes, well... Traditionally, the Lion Guard in the Ukumbusho has always been... Lions. Traditionally.”

With that said, the Lion Guard crew was left blank there.

“Nothing we can do about that.”

“Yeah, tradition or not. You can't make us lions.” Fuli added in agreement. “And don’t try to get Twilight to turn us into lions.” She quickly added to which the princess herself appreciated having just been spared the trouble of even thinking about how to try that kind of spell.

Just then Makini rushed over with a quick resolve. “I know. I can paint you to look like lions. It will look amazing.” She moved to place a finger in paint from yellow fruit. “Just a little paint here...”

Kion instinctively moved out of the way while kindly reminding her. “I already look like a lion.”

Makini giggled as she realized her mistake. “Oh, right. Because you are a lion.”

“Of course he is silly!” Pinkie chimed in as Makini turned to the rest of the Lion Guard.

“So, I'll make the rest of you look amazing!”

“Very well.” Ma Tembo approved. “Whatever it takes to get us closer to tradition. Just be sure you have time to paint the sunbursts on the elephants, Makini. The performance won't look right without them. This is King Simba's first Ukumbusho along with both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna's so it has to be perfect.”

“Ooh! An extra special reason to want to get it perfect! Like Twilight” Pinkie piped up again.

Twilight shook her head in Pinkie’s direction before moving to turn back to Ma Tembo to back Makini up on that. “Of course, Ma Tembo. She understands.”

“And don't worry about the Lion Guard. We'll have them looking and acting like lions in no time!” Timon further assured

“You'll never know the difference.” Pumbaa added.

After Ma Tembo let them be, Rarity quickly pulled both Timon and Pumbaa aside for a quick work to make her opinion on the matter very clear to them. “Listen while I appreciate you two wanting to help, keep in mind that I was assigned to be director for this..." She said much like what Twilight would say if this were her at the Gala dealing with Discord before moving to speak with gritted teeth. “…keep it under control!”

Both Timon and Pumbaa nodded in agreement with forced smiles as her intimidating tone came across clearly to them. Though with all things considered it might come to clash at some point later on.

Sometime later, Makini is now putting on the finishing touches to her paint job on the Lion Guard while both Kion and Twilight watched on.

“So, Kion? Twilight? Pony Guard? Do they look like lions to you?” She asked.

Truthfully, their initial thoughts were more quizzical than in stunned disappointment unlike the time Rarity created dresses for her pony friend’s first Grand Galloping Gala appearance.

“Uh...”

“Well…”

Their leaders spoke up unsure of what to say without hurting Makini’s feelings.

It’s not a bad job but it’s also not great to the point Rarity could actually do a better job herself if she could. The whole Guard was painted gold yellow while wearing red tree leaves to serve as their manes and rope around the top of their heads to hold it up and in place.

“Yeah, c'mon, Kion. Twilight.” Bunga encouraged for them to respond already approving of the paint job. “Do we look great? Or really great?”

“I've definitely never seen anything like it.”

“Me neither.”

They both spoke upon breaking their brief stunned silence.

“That's what I thought. I look un-Bunga-lievable.”

“That's one way of putting it.” Ono dryly commented just when they turned to Rarity tending to Fuli’s makeover with both Timon and Pumbaa taking it upon themselves to have the honor of proudly presenting her.

“Prepare yourselves for the piece de resistance!”

They pulled the leaves aside to reveal a completely yellow-coated cheetah with an unimpressed frown. “Ta-da!”

“You see any cheetahs here, Pumbaa?”

“Not me! All I see is a lion. And what a lion!”

“I look ridiculous.” She uttered without changing her expression at all.

Timon quickly shushed her. “Shh... You're spoiling the illusion.” Then he moved to get comfortable by resting his head on her face. “Ooh. Ooh.”

Now Fuli was looking on feeling a little violated with the way he is hugging her. “What are you doing?”

“Sorry. Even as a lion, your fur is still so soft...”

Kyoga quickly pulled Timon away with her magic before forcing him to look at her so she can shake her head in disapproval at him. “Timon, we've talked about this. Never invade someone’s personal space.”

After letting Timon go, Fuli moved to express her honest opinion about her new appearance and she still isn’t enlightened by it. “Ugh! This costume is so weird!”

Beshte the only one who didn’t have a problem with it tried to encourage her otherwise. “Come on, Fuli. You look just like the rest of us.”

“Why doesn't that make me feel better?”

“You know what? You all look terrific.” Kion complimented with full sincerity. “Good work, Makini.”

Twilight also complimented. “I know you're all gonna do great at the Ukumbusho tonight.”

“Oh…” Makini realized upon seeing the sun lowering down from above. “…it's almost sunset. And I still have to paint the elephants!”

She quickly rushed off ahead so she can do so with but Twilight and Fluttershy looking at each other in understanding of what they should do before moving to follow after her to make sure she doesn’t have a meltdown because of it while the others moved to help run the area as Rarity prepares to resume being a film director (alongside Timon and Pumbaa of course).

“Makini! Wait for us!” Twilight called after her before turning back to say this before fully focusing on the young mandrill. “We’ll be back.”

In the meantime, Timon moved to take over rehearsal. “From the top, everybody. Pumbaa, you be Ma Tembo.”

“Oh, good! Let me get into character.” The comedic warthog tried to imitate the elephant’s trumpeting to no avail. “No, that's not right. Let me try again.” He proceeds to actually get it right this time.

“Beautiful, Pumbaa! Beautiful!” Timon praised his best friend before turning back to the lion prince. “Now, Kion... You say your first lines to him. And remember, looking like lions is only part of the magic. Now, we gotta get you acting like lions.”

“I know! We can go on a hunt!” Bunga eagerly suggested.

Timon quickly dismissed it. “Hunting does not a lion make.“

”How would you know?” Fuli begged to differ on that claim.

“We raised a lion.” Pumbaa proudly answered.

“Right. Trust me, we know more about lions than anyone else in the Pride Lands!”

Before they could get carried away, Rarity quickly spoke over Timon before he can get another word in by putting her hoof down and right in front of him. “Ah, no you don’t! I’ll take over from here, thank you!” Moving to turn her attention to Bunga she moved to instruct him. “Okay, now first thing’s first, Bunga you know what to do?”

“Oh, yeah. I got this!”

“And action!” Rarity shouted through her megaphone once she got seated in her special chair.

To demonstrate this Bunga moved to imitate a lion’s roar.

“That's one impressive roar.” Kion complimented while in character. “Are you new to the Pride Lands, lion?”

“Kion, it's me, Bunga.” The honey badger said while breaking script. “I must be really good at this.”

“And cut!” Rarity said while motioning her hoof while Fuli sighed sharing the unicorn’s same frustration since this rehearsal is really taking longer than it should for them to get completely settled into their roles and it is since not going well for them in the slightest.

Meanwhile, with both Twilight and Fluttershy’s assistance, Makini was able to calm down again all while painting yellow suns on the elephant’s foreheads.

“You're going to love it, Zito! This yellow sunburst is going to be so pretty...” She then started to trail off when she felt she wasn’t getting anymore paint out of the shell she has in her hands. “Just as soon as I,uh...Uh-oh.” She leaps down and realizes that she now has an empty shell.

“Everything okay, Makini?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yeah I just need to get some more yellow paint.” She looks down at the leftover fruit only that there isn’t anymore yellow around. “Yellow... Yellow... There's got to be something yellow.”

Now Zito was starting to demand an answer. “Makini, what's going on?”

“Well...” Makini hesitantly started before explaining just when Twilight regrouped with them. “It looks like I might have run out of yellow paint.”

“In the middle of my sunburst?”

“I did have to use a lot of yellow to make the Lion Guard look like lions.” She admitted.

“Do you have any idea how preposterous that sounds?” Zito asked now angry. “The Ukumbusho will be ruined!”

“Now hold just a minute!” Twilight moved to float up to his eye-level before it can get out of hoof.

Hearing this attracted Kion and the rest of the Pony Guard along with the elephant leader herself.

“Ruined? What's happening?”

“What's going on?”

Both Ma Tembo and Kion inquired while turning to the alicorn to explain it over the now irritable elephant.

“Nothing!” Twilight innocently insisted with a forced smile before dropping it as she explained the situation. “Expect that in the process of painting the Lion Guard, she ended up running out of yellow paint before she could get to work on the elephant’s sunbursts.”

“Do you really need a sunburst?” Applejack asked.

Zito took offense to that question. “What? You lions and ponies don't appreciate tradition at all!”

“Of course we do!” Applejack asserted while fuming back at the elephant’s aggressive response. “It was a simple question. Yes or No.”

“No! No!” Twilight moved to keep both Applejack and Zito at bay when they looked ready to tussle with each other. “That’s not what she meant! And Rainbow Dash, back off!” She quickly added just when she was about to rush over to give Zito a piece of her mind.

“I’m sure Applejack didn’t mean it like that.” Kion tried to assure the agitated elephant while taking the earth pony’s side on this.

“Kion, sunbursts represent the Circle of Life.” Mtoto’s mother gently reminded. “They're a big part of the tradition.”

“Or maybe you expect me to go out there with only half a sunburst!” Zito irritably retorted while being restrained by Twilight while Rarity moved to do the same with Applejack.

“I don't even have half a sunburst and I still have to rehearse my scene with Bunga.”

“That scene is the centerpiece of the entire Ukumbusho performance.” Ma Tembo added to stress its importance.

“Oh, no! I really have ruined everything!” Makini gasped in horror at her mistake.

“You certainly have.” Zito bluntly remarked to which had the innocent mandrill gasping full of hurt and shock.

“Zito!” Fluttershy fiercely scolded with a stare to match in his face before Twilight moved to assure everyone it’ll all work out.

“It’ll be okay. And do you know why? Because we’re going to figure this out.”

“She’s right.” Kion backed the alicorn up there. “We won't let some yellow paint ruin the Ukumbusho.”

“What do you know about...” Zito tried to challenge both leaders of the Guard before being interrupted by Ma Tembo who urged him to back down.

“Listen to them, Zito. The Guard has always come through for us.”

“What if she made more yellow paint?” Kion suggested.

“Okay...” Ma Tembo calmly accepted the idea without question. “Makini, see if you can find some more yellow fruit in the forest.” She then sees the mandrill was still not fully focused due to feeling crushed and hurt by Zito’s words. “Makini?”

She snapped to attention before rushing off. “Fruit. Got it.”

“I’ll go after her to make sure she finds it.” Twilight volunteered before turning to the Pegasus. “Come on Fluttershy! And Applejack and Rainbow Dash…” The yellow Pegasus followed after her without question while Kion moved to take control of the situation but not without the former adding in both ponies direction with a disappointed glare before they could even follow after her. She even teleported right in front of them to make sure the message is crystal clear to them. “Don’t you two think I haven’t noticed what just happened! And we will talk about this later!” She sternly stated before teleporting back to Fluttershy’s side and leading the way.

With that all settled, Kion moved to take control of the situation from here. “Okay. Good. In the meantime... Mtoto's mom, you go rehearse with Bunga. Don't worry, Ma Tembo. Everything's gonna be okay.”

Outside of Mizumu Grove, Twilight and Fluttershy managed to catch up with her as she is looking around the nearest forest for yellow with little luck.

“Nope. No. Oh! Ooh, beautiful! No. Yellow, Makini. Yellow!”

“Makini!” Twilight called out to her as she and Fluttershy approached her.

Upon hearing and seeing her she moved to calm herself down again. “Shwari...”

“Better.” Twilight then moved to check up on her. “Now, you okay?”

“Yeah…” She admitted with a sigh. “…it’s just I’d feel a lot better if I had more fruit for yellow paint. I mean you heard what Zito said.”

“Never mind what Zito said.” Twilight said while shaking her head. “He was just upset and has a strong mindset to following tradition like the whole herd.”

“I’m sure he didn’t mean it.” Fluttershy added while placing a gentle hoof on her back. “Everyone knows that you are trying your hardest in making this the best celebration they could ask for.“

Makini knew what they were saying is true, though deep down she still wishes to be able to make it up to them. When she spotted something in particular she suddenly found her resolution to the matter. “Ohhh...” She spotted some yellow flowers the bees were hovering over. “I can crush these and make paint that's even more beautiful than the banana paint I had before!” As she took the flowers from their stems she took the time to apologize and insist it’s necessary. “'Scuse me, bees. I really need these flowers!”

“Makini, wait!” Fluttershy called out to her to no avail. “Oh, what do we do?” She asked Twilight now worried herself upon seeing how badly this will end.

“We do what we always do best.” Twilight calmly replied. “Be ready when it happens.”

“But shouldn’t we at least consider getting some yellow paint from the other world even if it means breaking tradition a little.”

“I don’t think that’ll be necessary.” Twilight shook her head before leading the way back to Mizumi Grove. “In fact, they might just learn something out of all of this.”

Even understanding why, Fluttershy still had her doubts about her approach. “I sure hope you’re right.”

Upon arriving back at Mizumi Grove, Makini proudly unveiled her discovery to the elephants. “I have yellow!”

“Oh, thank the Savannah.” Ma Tembo was the first to express her delighted relief.

“Good going, Makini.” Kion complimented.

“About time.” Zito voiced still rather grumpy about the whole thing.

“Don't you think these flowers will make an even prettier yellow paint?” Makini asked as she got to work making the paint.

Zito simply lowered his head so she can finish the job. “Just finish painting me.”

Elsewhere at the grove, rehearsal still hasn’t gotten any better and that’s because Bunga keeps fumbling his line over and over again and again much to the irritation of Mtoto’s mother.

“Don't tell me, don't tell me. I'll remember...” Predictably he doesn’t know. “Uh... Line?”

The annoyed elephant hopelessly sighed before replying. “We bravest can do anything."

Even still Bunga didn’t get it. “Of course we can. What's my line?”

“That is your line. "We bravest can do anything."”

“Then my mom says, "We bravest can even find peace when things are most frightening."” Mtoto added.

“Got it. It's all in my head. If I could find my head. But I'll get my lines eventually.”

Rarity watching this just face-hoofed herself again before moving to focus back on Kion and Fuli on another scene for the reenactment.

“Okay, Kion. After Ma Tembo passes the Branch of Peace to you, you pass it to the fastest lion” Timon instructed before placing the branch in Fuli’s mouth. “... Here. Go.”

Only problem with that is having the branch in her mouth hard to get her line properly said leading to a muffled attempt in the process.

“With this branch, we will hasten the day of peace.”

“I can't understand her at all.” Pumbaa commented.

“That's because I have a stick in my mouth.” Fuli replied with the stick still in her mouth.

Rarity couldn’t take it anymore. “Okay! Stop! Stop! Stop!” She quickly intervened thus shocking the two into stunned silence. “This style of management is over, boys! Consider yourselves, terminated!” She took a deep breath to regain her composure before smiling and gently removing the branch from the cheetah’s mouth and moved it to her right forepaw. “Let’s take it from the top, and when passing the branch we use our paws and hooves so we don’t have a mouthful of trouble.” She giggled briefly. “Okay. Good. And action!”

With the branch out of her mouth, the performance went through much more smoothly.

“With this branch, we will hasten the day of peace.”

“Okay good. Now, Strongest. Go!” Rarity encouraged Beshte to continue rolling the scene while they’re on a roll as he is handed the branch.

“It takes great strength to support peace between us.”

“Phew!” Rarity sighed with a relieved smile. “Finally, you all got that part right!” Just then, trumpeting is heard nearby. “Oh and just in time!”

“Everyone! The King and the Princesses are here! Take your places. It's time to start the show!” Ma Tembo announced to everyone knowing exactly what it means for them.

“But I still don't have my peace paint on yet!” Mtoto’s mom quickly reminded.

“I got ya!” Makini quickly assured before moving to paint her forehead. “I just did four of these, I can practically paint a sunburst with my eyes closed.”

Ma Tembo moved to approach the arriving lion king and alicorn princesses who are all very happy to see each other.

“Ma Tembo, I am looking forward to this evening's celebration.” The lion king himself greeted. “I'll be interested to see if the Ukumbusho is as beautiful as I've heard.”

“And the same can be said for us.” Celestia added while gesturing to herself and her sister.

“Indeed, sister. Indeed.” Luna agreed.

“Yes, Your Majesty. We shall see.” Ma Tembo assured all while eyeing the very confident director Rarity smiling and nodding in response to her statement.

By nightfall, the whole audience had all gathered around ready to watch the enactment.

Amongst the audience, Rarity along with the Pony Guard moved to stand by as camera crew so they can record this movie so everyone in Equestria can see this, along with keeping watch in case anything happens during the performance should another threat arise.

“Everybody ready?” Kion whispered to his friends who all nodded in response. “Let's do it.”

They all stepped forward onto the rocks that served as the stage before performing a song together with Kion starting off as tall and pride as the first Lion Guard leader himself as the rest of his team along with the elephants all proudly marched forward.

May There Be Peace

Once it was time for the first big speech of the performance, Ma Tembo stepped up to face Kion on stage.

“Many dry seasons ago, Askari, leader of the first Lion Guard, made peace with the elephants. Working together, the lions and elephants made the Pride Lands a safe home for everyone who respects the Circle of Life. It is this peace that we celebrate tonight.”

Everyone resumed singing as the symbol of peace is laid forward.

“Told you it will all work out.” Kion whispered with a smile.

Ma Tembo likewise agreed now feeling less stressed with what she is seeing so far. “Yes. So far so good.”

Kion then resumed performing his role. “Greetings, wise elephants! My name is Askari. I am first leader of the Pride Lands Lion Guard. You have nothing to fear from us.” Instantly, they heard buzzing sounds nearby. “What is that?” He asked now out of character.

“Hmm.” Ono turned his head to the direction of the sound it came from. “That's strange. It sounds like...”

“Bees!” Ma Tembo exclaimed in fright upon spotting them who all swarmed around them.

All of the elephants all panicked and stampeded around the grove because their deep fear of bees forcing the royal sisters to conjure up a force field powerful enough to repel all of the bees away from Mizimu Grove to buy everyone enough time to move to safety.

While this was all going on both Timon and Pumbaa had time for this exchange thinking that this is still the reenactment going on.

“What are they doing?” Pumbaa asked.

“No improvising!” Timon called out to them.

“This is no act!” Rarity shouted at them thus shocking them once again. “When you will two realize that you are both not cut out to know what is best for tradition!”

“Careful! Look out!” Makini called out the elephants that nearly ran her over.

”Ma Tembo?” The lion king called out to her as she and the other elephants all ran off with the bees still swarming around their faces.

“Is this because I didn't know my lines?” Bunga asked Beshte standing beside him.

“No!” Twilight shook her head. “I’m afraid our unwanted guests are attracted to the elephants is why and if we don’t stop their rampage, it’ll get messy fast!”

“Twilight’s right, C'mon. We gotta stop ‘em before they hurt someone or themselves.” Kion along with Twilight were both quick to lead the guard after the elephants. “Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Deciding none of this was important now, Rarity moved to toss aside her director’s cap before running after the others.

The elephant’s rampage made its way through across the nearby pond where the flamingos are who all squawked and flew away in fright up seeing them stampeding their way.

“This way.”

“Through the trees.”

Both Rainbow and Ono quickly alerted the crew as they flew ahead to keep the elephants in sight as they were all knocking down trees and such through their short-sighted attempts to flee from the hovering bees.

“Elephants! Calm down!” Kion shouted after them to no avail.

“Why are the elephants so scared?” Beshte asked.

“Well, elephants are afraid of bees.” Ono answered before adding while flying beside him. “But I didn't realize they were this afraid.”

“Elephants are afraid of bees?” Pinkie asked like it is one of the craziest things she’s heard.

“Common knowledge, really.”

“Huh. Hard to believe that something so big can be afraid of something so delicious.” Bunga commented sharing Pinkie’s confused notion.

“So how are we gonna get rampaging elephants to stop rampaging?” Fuli asked.

Applejack thought about rounding them up, but remembered that they won’t stop as long as bees are swarming all over their faces.

“Ooh! I know! I know!” Pinkie suddenly piped up happily. “Why don't we ask those elephants?”

The Lion and Pony Guard all came to a skipping halt in front of the elephants who didn’t have any paint on their foreheads unlike the other elephants.

“Any bees on me?” One of the elephants Zigo asked while still catching her breath.

“Don't see any.”

“Nope, no bees around you.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie quickly answered.

“So the bees stopped chasing you... But they're still after the other elephants.” Kion deduced as he started putting the pieces together.

“I guess so. But why?”

“Hmm.” Fuli gave it some more thought. “You weren't in the show, but Ma Tembo and the others were.”

“And they're wearing the yellow paint that Makini made from flowers.” Kyoga added.

“Of course!” Twilight realized at the same idea Ono and Rarity figured it out.

“The bees are attracted to the pollen from the flowers!” The unicorn stated.

“We have to wash that pollen off the elephants!” Kion stated.

“Good thinking, Kion.” Beshte agreed.

“Except it's the middle of the Dry Season. There’s not enough water around these parts of the Savannah.” Applejack however reminded everyone. “Where are we going to find enough water to wash a bunch of giant elephants?”

“Well we better figure it out fast.” Rainbow commented as she and Ono got a good look at what’s about to happen in front of them.

“Herd of buffalo... Right in the elephants' path!” Ono alerted.

“Fuli, Rainbow, go warn the buffalo! We'll stay on the elephants.” Kion instructed of them who were better quick to do so.

“You got it, Kion!”

“Huwezi!”

Upon arriving they wasted no time in trying to alert the buffalo of the upcoming stampede they’re about to face.

“Vuruga Vuruga! Buffalo!”

“You need to get out of here! Right now!”

Because it was nighttime and buffaloes aren’t known for having great eyesight, they couldn’t recognize the two at first glance when they appeared in the shadows, especially since during her rush on over here, Rainbow ended up snagging clouds and twigs in her mane to give her a mysterious appearance.

“Leave? This is one of the few grazing grounds left.” The buffalo leader however refused to comply. “Who do you think you are? Telling us what to do!”

“It's us, Fuli and Rainbow Dash. From the Lion and Pony Guard.” She still wasn’t convinced. “The costume. Of course. Ugh.” Fuli realized as she took the time to lament to herself before continuing. “I knew I looked ridiculous. Long story. Elephants are coming fast. You gotta move.”

“And why should we listen to you, weird looking cheetah-lion thing that we've never seen before? And…” She looks up in alarm up seeing Rainbow’s appearance. “…who are you?!”

Rainbow upon getting an idea on her head, quickly whispered to Fuli as she put some more twigs on her face. “Let’s just move this along.” She moved to float over the sky locking her pink eyes on the now frightened buffalo all while hovering around them to startle them.

Getting the same idea, Fuli moved to speak in a gruff and menacing tone. “I am something you've never seen before and so is she. We only come out on the full moon to eat buffalo!” The buffalo wound up feeling on edge by her words. “If I were you, I'd run. Now!”

At the same time both Fuli and Rainbow Dash unleashed their best roar with the latter sounding more like a demonic screech causing them all to gasp and all run away in fright.

As soon as they all fled and were out of earshot, Rainbow shook off the twigs and clouds after emerging from the shadows all while laughing her head off.

“Maybe looking ridiculous isn't so bad after all.” Fuli commented upon seeing her costume is actually good for something before sharing a high-five with Rainbow Dash with the latter relishing in the prank opportunity she just seized upon.

Just then the elephants came heading their way before they briefly split apart from each other before following after the Guard.

“Whoa!”

“Huwezi!”

Upon catching up the elephants, Beshte took notice at the little baby elephant having the same problem as the other elephants. “Poor Mtoto. Looks like the bees are bugging him too.”

“Ah! Go! Away! Bees!”

In an attempt for them to go away, Mtoto snorted dirt up his truck and sprayed it at them.

It worked…only for a few seconds.

“Aw, I was sure that would work!” Beshte remarked in pity.

“It was a valiant effort.” Applejack commented feeling the same way before suddenly widening her eyes when that gave her an idea. “But of course…that could actually work on getting that paint off of them.”

“She’s right!” Kion realized it’s potential.

“It could blast the paint off!” Ono added.

“Then the bees wouldn't have anything to go after.” Fuli also added before rushing off ahead. “I'll tell Mtoto.”

Rainbow rushed after her. “Mtoto!”

“Fuli? Rainbow?”

“Don't blast the bees. Blast the paint.”

“That's what they're after. Trust us.”

“Um... Uh, okay!” Though a little confused and hesitant, he complied given that his life is on the line with them. And as the bees all dispersed the second he blew that paint off of his forehead. “It worked!”

“All right.”

“Nice work.”

The leaders of the Guard complimented upon catching up to them.

“Thanks. Lion and Pony Guard! You saved me!”

“You're welcome.”

“Ha! Think nothing of it!”

Both the Guard’s Fastest returned with the latter’s tone leaning on bragging about it.

“Now we just gotta take care of the others.” Kion stated with the youngest of the bunch saved.

Both Ono and Rainbow quickly flew up and managed to get a glimpse of where they are headed.

“Hapana!”

“They're heading towards Sehemu Pass!”

“Sehemu Pass?” Rarity asked.

“But that pass is too narrow for elephants.” Beshte commented.

“They could get stuck.” Fluttershy added.

“Actually…” Kion spoke up upon seeing the benefits from it. “…that might not be a bad thing.”

“Indeed!” Ono came to realize it himself.

“Huddle up!” Twilight ushered everyone to do so before she and Kyoga performed a teleportation spell so they can appear in front of the elephants inside the pass.

Upon arriving inside Mtoto was quick to shoot dirt at the first elephant that got stuck inside the pass, Ma Tembo.

“Ma Tembo! Close your eyes. Now!” Mtoto quickly warned with the latter quick to do so before preparing to chew the little elephant out for it.

“Mtoto! What in the Pride Lands...” She stopped herself mid-scolding before realizing why he told her to do so. “The bees! They're gone. Why?”

“It was the pollen in the paint.”

“Once Mtoto blew it off, the bees weren't attracted to you anymore.”

Both leaders of the Guard answered.

“Kion! Twilight!“

“Zito and Johari are headed your way!”

Both Ono and Rainbow quickly alerted.

Knowing that Ma Tembo is in harm’s way right now, both leaders called upon their Strongest members to push them through.

“Beshte!”

“Applejack!”

Both were quick to come to her aid.

“Let us give you a little push to get you free.”

“Ready?” Ma Tembo nodded with her back still turned due to being able to turn around.

“Back it up, Big B, AJ. There you go.“ Bunga guided them before the two gave them a firm and gentle push to get her unstuck from the rocks in time before the next stampeding elephants came their way.

Upon getting stuck both Ma Tembo and Mtoto were quick to snort dirt to blow the paint off of their foreheads.

“Oh!”

“Huh?”

“Ma Tembo! Mtoto! You did it!” Kion congratulated.

“The bees? Are gone?” Zito asked.

“Well, most of 'em.” Bunga corrected as he moved to munch on a few that didn’t flee like the others. “Just doing my part to make sure every elephant is safe.”

“Ugh, of course you do.” Rarity remarked in disgust while looking aside to emphasize it.

Just then Mtoto noticed that one elephant is missing and isn’t coming their way. “But... Where's my mom?”

“Ono!”

“Rainbow Dash!”

Both fliers flew up to scout the skies before spotting her on the cliff-side knocking down every tree she comes across.

“Hapana! Mtoto's mom's on the edge of Mapango Cliffs.

“And she looks terrified!”

“Oh, no! My mom...” Mtoto gasped in horror.

“Don't worry, Mtoto.” Twilight quickly assured before leading everyone on over in her direction. “We'll help her.”

On the cliff side, Mtoto’s mother is really unable to find herself to stop with the bees still swarming her face. “Oh! Leave me alone, bees!”

“There she is!” Kion shouted upon spotting her on upper ground from where they are standing.

“Mom!” Mtoto shouted while wanting to rush over to help her only to be quickly held back by both Twilight and Kion.

“Mtoto! Stop!” Kion commanded.

“All those trees she knocked down were holding the hill in place.” Twilight added while still not letting go of him.

“In other words…” Rainbow added. “…The ground's too dry.”

“It won't hold her weight.” Ono chimed in.

“The whole cliff could collapse at any second.” Applejack also added.

“Not to worry, little elephant!”

“We got this!”

Both Pinkie and Bunga confidently stated before the former pulled out her party cannon so they can both climb inside and shoot themselves up onto the ledge.

“Ready?”

“Lets! Zuka Zama!”

The party canon went off, sending both the pony and honey badger up onto the cliff. They both leaped off the crumbling edge before moving to come to the struggling elephant’s aid.

Pinkie quickly rushed off with a fly swatter that had honey placed onto it to which Bunga quickly took so he can eat it all up.

“It's okay, Mtoto's mom.”

“No more bees.” Bunga then noticed they missed one before quickly gobbling it up. “Well, almost no more.”

“Now they’re all gone!” She added with a big grin.

Now that the bees were gone, the elephant could not see and think straight. “Bunga, Pinkie when did you get here?” She then breathed on the verge of panicking upon seeing on how high up she really is. “When did I get here? Ooh!”

“It's okay. You're the bravest, remember?” Pinkie reminded.

Bunga then further assured by saying... “And we bravest can do anything. We bravest can even find peace when things are most frightening.“

“That's my line.” She said with an amused smile.

“Hey, at least I remembered it.” Bunga shrugged like it’s no big deal while Pinkie gave one of her biggest grins to date.

“So you did.” It was actually pretty funny and the elephant was taking deep breaths to calm herself down. “Okay. I'm okay.”

Upon hearing that, Pinkie pulled out her megaphone from her poofy mane to announce it from up high. “You hear that? It's all good. She's okay.”

Mtoto sighed in relief upon hearing this.

“Let's take the back way down.” Bunga advised.

“Good idea.”

And the timing turned out perfectly because as soon as they stepped away from the edge, it gave way and collapsed behind them.

“Whoa!” The three all exclaimed when that happened with the pink pony shuddering due to her Pinkie Sense.

“Keep moving! Keep moving!”

“Thank you both, Bunga, Pinkie Pie.” The mother elephant thanked. “Together, we bravest really can do anything.”

With the crisis averted, everyone all returned to Mizimu Grove, where everyone was all waiting for them.

“Ma Tembo. Are you all right?” Simba was the first to ask in concern for the herd.

“Yes, Your Highness.” She quickly assured. “Thank you. I'm so sorry we panicked, but... Bees! They can fly up our trunks and sting us. It's very, very painful.”

“That sounds awful.” Kion commented.

“I can't imagine what that would be like.

“Me neither.”

Both sisters added in agreement.

“Ma Tembo…” Makini quickly rushed over since she had a hand in that incident happening. “…I am so, so sorry. I never should have used flowers to make the paint.”

The leader of the elephants was quick to forgive her knowing that it was just an honest mistake. “It's okay, Makini. You didn't know.”

“And considering I gave you a hard time back there. I can’t blame you for being so desperate in using them.” Zito added all while sounding sincerely apologetic upon realizing that he was too hard on her earlier and that led to the dominion effect that took place tonight. “That being said Makini, can you forgive me?”

Natural to her she was quick to do so, “Of course!” Makini then gasped when she spoke of a resolution to fix all of this. “Maybe I can find some more yellow fruit and repaint you! It'll look amazing!”

“Or maybe we could just get some yellow paint from Ponyville?” Fluttershy suggested otherwise. “If that’s okay?”

“Actually…” Kion spoke up thinking they should make this as easy as possible with his suggestion while speaking it in a kind manner. “…I know it's not tradition, but maybe we should consider finishing the Ukumbusho without any paint?”

Ma Tembo pondered it for a moment while still reluctant at the idea. “It's difficult for elephants to break with tradition.”

“Then why not think of it as starting a new tradition?” King Simba advised.

“Much like the first here Pony Guard.” Applejack chimed in. “Think of it as a compromise with all things considered here tonight.”

After a few seconds of considering it, Ma Tembo was all ears for it. “I like the sound of that.”

The other elephants all trumpeted in agreement.

“Sounds good to me. Although I still have my paint.” Mtoto’s mom pointed out.

“Not for long!” Her son was quick to spray it off with dirt.

“Wow. Great job, Mtoto.”

“Great aim, partner!”

Both of the Guard’s Strongest complimented.

“Well, I am the strongest.”

“Paint or no paint, I still get to say my lines, right?” Bunga asked Mtoto’s mother.

“Just be sure you don't say my lines this time.”

“No promises.”

“Ah, classic Bunga.” Rarity smiled while shifting her eyes to the side before donning her director cap again ready to resume filming once more. But before she could take charge, she found Timon and Pumbaa right in front of her, only unlike before they looked on feeling regretful for how they acted beforehand. “Okay, boys, what is it this time?”

“Listen…we’ve just been thinking and uh…”

“…we got caught up in the pride of raising a lion who became king that we got it in our heads that we know more than the rest of the pack…”

“…that we let what we thought was tradition override you when we should have listened to you right from the start.”

“Can’t you at least let us help direct the filming of this movie?”

“And maybe as long as we promise to behave ourselves we can maybe help put together a film of how the Pony Guard came to be?”

“Please?” They both asked together practically begging.

“Well…” She pondered for a bit before handing them their very own director’s hats. “…sure.” They both smiled upon seeing their newly bestowed positions though Rarity was quick to sternly look upon them to remind them whose boss. “Don’t make me regret it.”

“Then let the new Ukumbusho begin.” Ma Tembo declared.

“All right. You heard the elephant. Let's get this show started!”

“Places, everyone! Places!”

Timon and Pumbaa said to everyone as the play started over again with both Kion and Ma Tembo taking center stage once more.

“Greetings, wise elephants! My name is Askari. I am first leader of the Pride Lands Lion Guard. You have nothing to fear from us.”

“And you, wise lions, have nothing to fear from us.”

Twilight watched on smiling before winking in Fluttershy’s direction to assure she knew what would happen right from the start. Lessons learned, apologies given to each other, compromises made with old traditions turning into new traditions, much like the creation and combination of the first mixed animal Lion Guard along with the first Pony Guard every put forward.

Author's Note

Here in this episode we have the titular event where the elephants are preparing to hold their annual retelling of how the first leader of the Lion Guard came to make an alliance turned friendship with the elephants in the Pride Lands.

One would think that a simple play would be a simple production if it weren't for the aforementioned issues that came up in the hours leading up to it. The conflict with directors, huge demand for paint, and of course tempers flaring with tradition and non-traditional views brought to head (but that's another story later on this season) all make it a load of horse play involved. Horse play that leads to a domino effect that led to bees swarming all over the elephants that the Lion and Pony Guard had to quickly clean up before things could get out of control.

Good thing that in the end, compromises for tradition vs non-tradition have been made so the event could carry on without anymore drama (no not :raritydespair: )

Next up is the Slice of Life where we get see some of the ponies and Pride Landers take center stage as Cranky Doodle and Matilda prepare for their wedding which also happens to be MLP's 100th episode along with the 150th episode for this crossover so until then stay tuned...

Episode 13: Slice of Life (MLP's 100th episode and TPG's 150th episode)

Episode 13:

Slice of Life

"I'll never understand the ponies in this town!" Cranky Doodle Donkey said when he walked in through the door, before placing his recently purchased bag of fruit onto the floor. He angrily slammed the door shut with his back leg.

Matilda, a lovely female donkey who is currently living with him ever since their reunion was busy working on her scrapbook. It was filled with so many pictures of her and Cranky's time together, from their trip to Manehatthan, to the Heart's Warming Eve party, Princess Twilight Sparkle's coronation, along with Prince Kion’s coronation. They had been through so much together recently that Matilda needed more than one book for said memories.

Even though Cranky’s attitude had improved since reuniting with the love of his life he was still feeling really annoyed with the townsponies today. "Everywhere I went, they were all gussied up and lookin' at me funny! Kept asking if I was "nervous"!"

Matilda simply smiled in response. "Did they forget the wedding is tomorrow?"

"Oh, maybe they're just as excited for us to be married as I am."

The two donkeys giggled and nuzzled their noses just knowing that nothing can break apart their love for each other.

"Well, they're going to feel awfully silly when they realize they've got the wrong date." Matilda then took a look at the invitations she just placed on her scrapbook before suddenly gasping in horror when something caught her eye taking her soon to be husband back by surprise. "The invitations are wrong! This says the wedding is today!"

"But I got such a good deal on them…"

"Oh no!"

"What now?"

"They say that the wedding isn't going to be here in Ponyville but…at Pride Rock!!"

"What?! How did that even happen?"

"Everypony in town got these! The princesses have even RSVP'd!" Matilda started to panic upon seeing this as she galloped nervously in place.

"I told you we should have eloped!"

"Oh, dear. The caterer, the flowers, the musicians! We've got to move it all to today! And to the city!"

"What?!"

Matilda didn't waste any time to burst out through the doors to find Pinkie Pie. "Where's my wedding planner?!"

Cranky looked back at the invitations, re-reading the words they said now feeling extremely cranky and ready to kill whoever wrote out these invitations. Well not kill, but certainly give said culprit quite an earful of yelling about this.

When he got to the pony who wrote out their invitations he sure made good on it.

"You told me you could do it for half what the others charged, and then you sent the invitations to everypony in town with the wrong date and wrong place! Now I'm going to have to get married in a musty old city!"

Cranky's nostrils flared angrily as Derpy, pulled out a basket of apology muffins and placed them on the counter. "Muffin?" she offered while smiling nervously.

"Do you have any idea how stressed Matilda is now?!" Cranky then sighed to keep his cool. "Well, I suppose there no use in fightin' this, is there? A Pride Lands wedding it is."

The groom-to-be walked out the door, leaving Derpy to feel terrible for her mistake and the accidental stress she had just caused for both him and the bride.

Later that day, both Twilight Sparkle and Kion ran across town, bypassing various ponies. Both the prince and princess looked determined as they rushed off to take of something very important together.

While they were passing by everypony in town, Derpy was sitting with the town’s local scientist Dr. Hooves.

"I really messed up on those invitations! I feel just awful, Doc!" She said deeply regretful.

The waiter pony placed the tray of juice onto the table and rose his nose up into the air in a snobby fashion, typical for rich jerks like him. "Hmph! Perhaps that explains why I never got mine!" He commented before leaving.

"I told Cranky I could get 'em printed for cheap, but that meant hiring somepony with no experience using a printing press."

Upon hearing it from afar, Mtoto gasped in response before looking aside to act like he heard nothing while feeling guilty himself as he recalled accidentally sneezing ink on the printing press which contributed to said date mix up.

“Uh-oh.”

“Something the matter?” His mother standing next to him asked.

“Nothing really…” He replied not wanting to admit what he did. “…thought I heard something nearby.”

“Like what?”

Unable to lie to his mother he admitted. “Something about a screw-up with the invitations that now has the Pride Lands hosting a wedding today.”

“Okay.” She calmly replied. “Not a problem. We’ll just go over to Pride Rock and let King Simba know right away of what is happening. I’m sure we can sort this out in time. Okay?”

“Okay.”

Derpy then covered her eyes in shame. "Oh, I wish there was a way I could go back in time and fix all this."

Dr. Hooves tapped his chin in thought as he thought of an idea something that Mtoto cringed for the poor pony knowing that it is not going to be a great one. “Follow me.” He said before leading her away from the café.

Dr. Hooves opened the door to his underground lab while Derpy followed close behind him, all while marveling at all of the gadgets and stuff around her.

"Going back in time is old thinking, my friend." said the stallion once he entered and began tinkering on one of his machines.

The entire room was filled with all sorts of futuristic, and somewhat retro looking, objects, materials and experiments the pony had been working on.

"I was working off a cutting-edge theory of making time come forward to you." The Doc noticed that Derpy was no longer at his side, but rather playing on a hanging model air-plane device while wearing some kind of helmet on her head. Dr. Hooves pulled a lever and lowered her down to remind her to focus and that he is still talking to her.

"My life's work, decades – centuries, really – of research and experimentation, and I nearly had it cracked! Turns out there's a magic spell for it. Who knew?"

Derpy once again got away and was now playing with an electric orb, which caused her hair to stand up every time she touched it.

"But there are so many things that magic can't explain, where science and mathematics are the real magic!"

"What are these?" Derpy asked while gazing at a tube with floating, colorful-like objects. "They're pretty."

"Ah, yes, my flameless fireworks. I never could quite figure out how to get them to ignite."

"How did you learn to make all this stuff anyway?"

"I've been studying science my whole life. Ever since a particularly traumatic experience as a foal, I've been looking for ways to make sense of the world around me. Science provides explanations of things we never thought possible! … However, I never could get to the logical conclusion as to how a lion became half alicorn." said the Doc as he looked at some of the notes and pictures he had on Prince Kion up on his wall. "Then again, I also can't understand the whole 'soul mate' theory of hers either. Now, why did we come here again?"

Derpy shook her head to remind herself of what it was for once. "Yeah. Oh! Because I accidentally sent out invitations for Cranky and Matilda's wedding with today's date instead of tomorrow's and now, instead of it being in Ponyville, It's in the Pride Lands at Pride Rock!"

Dr. Hooves rapidly shook his head in disbelief, "Great whickering stallions! I completely forgot! And I still need to get my suit tailored!" Dr. Hooves galloped out of the room, leaving Derpy alone, and once again, with no idea on how to fix her problem.

Dr. Hooves galloped towards the Carousel Boutique, with his suit on his back, and knocked on the door, with neither the unicorn nor the egret he expected answering the door. "Rarity? Rarity! Ono? Ono! Blast!"

He heard music and saw Vinyl Scratch walk by him. As always, she wore her headphones on at all times. "Please! You've got to help me!" he called out to her, getting her attention, "I lost track of time, unbelievably, and forgot that the wedding is this afternoon!"

But while he was speaking, Vinyl didn't hear anything due to her music and only watched his movements.

"Have you seen Rarity and Ono? They got to alter the sleeves on my suit, and she's got to do it now!"

Vinyl nodded her head, thinking she knew what he wanted, and gestured him to follow her.

"Oh, ha-ha, thank goodness. Lead on, my friend."

He lead him on over to the nearby bowling alley where the confused doctor tries to understand why.

"Er, why have you brought me all the way here? Rarity would never set hoof in—"

"Strike!"

Doc turned his head to see a trio of hippos wearing bowling shirts alongside the elephants. Each of them were all wearing stylish, and personalized bowling shirts.

Dr. Hooves shook his head rapidly once again at the sight of the three, "Great whickering stallions, they've got style!" he thanked Vinyl for her 'assistance' and she left the building, dancing to the music in her headphones. Dr. Hooves approached both teams and introduced himself, "Gentlecolts! Oh, I mean, Gentle hippos and elephants! I'm facing certain calamity, and I couldn't help noticing your remarkable fashion sense. Could I have the name of your incredible tailor?"

Most of the large animals turned their heads towards one elephant who can only look aside rather embarrassed before speaking up. “Oh all right. You’re looking at him. Courtesy of the elephant matriarch of the herd I have picking up a few sewing habits from her and Rarity. Here…” In quick and careful use of his trunk, Zito was able tailor the stallion’s suit no problem so that it was presentable and fitting for a wedding appearance. “My, word! You certainly are fast with that trunk of yours!"

“Just please don’t mention this to anyone, okay.” Zito insisted. “If anyone outside of here knows that then everyone will be coming to me for patch up jobs and all of that stuff that requires the Guard’s Keen Sight to handle.”

“Oh I hear you. Not really a sewing kind of guy, but need it for emergencies like these. Anyways…” He then remembered something. “…since you’re here, I actually could your help something.”

“Like what?”

“Well as you can see from around you we’re about to start the finals and our fourth member didn’t show.”

Another male elephant Johari added. “Ma Tembo is on his way here but the other couldn’t be here due to helping her son with the whole wedding problem. So think you fill the void in her absence?”

“And consider it holding up your end of the bargain. We wouldn’t tell if why you really came here if you don’t.” Zito added as he handed a bowling ball to Dr. Hooves.

He stared at the pins and started calibrating in his head the numbers for a perfect strike, but he could not find one that would accurately hit them all. "I'm sorry, gentlemen, but I will not bowl. The splits, the spares! There are simply too many variables!"

"Variables? What are you talking about?" Johari replied to assure him that there’s no complicated math involved. "Just throw the ball straight!"

"Hold on. Straight?" He noticed the way other people were throwing the balls, indeed they were straight and managing to hit many pins that way. Maybe he could play alongside their upcoming team match, after all it was the least he could do. “Very well. I'll try your "straight" technique. It just might be crazy enough to work."

In the Pride Lands, The Lion and Pony Guard all gathered together so they can discuss a plan as if something major is about to happen. A small group of Pride Landers and ponies gathered but kept a far enough distance as not to disturb them. As always, Kion and Twilight were calling the shots while the others listened attentively, openly suggestion alternatives if needed.

"Do we know what they're on about?" Octavia Melody asked.

Within the crowd were the Cutie Mark Crusaders, along with the honorary Lion Guard group, Rafiki, Big Mac, Cheerlie, Laini, and Bupu, who were all watching them today.

"The way they're huddled up like that, I'd say it's either a friendship problem or a monster attack." Mtoto answered as he used his hearing to make out what both leaders of the Guard are saying.

"A monster attack?!" Octavia exclaimed, "Blast! I'm performing at the ceremony this afternoon, and I still haven't sorted out what to play." she placed her hand over her forehead in a dramatic manner, "How am I meant to practice with a monster invading the city?"

"Maybe it's just a friendship problem," Sweetie Belle attempted to assure her from freaking out. "and it'll all be cleared up in half an hour or so."

Octavia groaned before leaving. "I hope so."

Matilda, who just appeared amongst the crowd was now shouting. "Where's Pinkie Pie?! I need my wedding planner!"

The sound of buzzing filled the air and all eyes turned their attention towards the direction of the looming shadow over them. One of the most strangest and horrible creatures anyone has ever seen. A half bear-half bee hybrid with four arms and wings growling with fury. Nobody knew what this creature was exactly, but one thing was certain is…

…The Lion and Pony Guard are going to do whatever it takes to stop it!

The monster growled loudly as it aimed it’s stinger directly at the heroes, who all quickly jumped out of the way, sliding to a halt once they landed.

Using a lift from Beshte, Applejack was quick to use her uninjured legs to land a firm blow to the creature causing him to stagger to the ground briefly because of it with the hippo quick to catch him before she could do anymore damage to herself. Both Kion and Twilight flew up and simultaneously unleashed magical beams at the creature, causing him to stumble back. Both Fuli and Rainbow Dash moved to run and fly at the creature to force it on the defense and to retreat as the others moved to chase and pursue it ready to keep taking it on by all means necessary.

“I’m afraid your wedding planner is busy helping the Lion and Pony Guard with a monster attack or whatever that horrible creature is.” Bupu bluntly broke the news to the now distressed pony.

"Oh, no! On my wedding day?! Somepony's gotta help me!"

That’s where Mtoto and Apple Bloom took charge in guiding everyone to safety.

“All right everyone for the sake of the Lion and Pony Guard everyone evacuate to the nearest caves and watering holes for safety!”

“You all know the drill, so let’s get a move on!” She quickly turned to a certain zebra. “And that does not mean you can panic and run! Got it!”

“Uh-huh.” Thurston reluctantly agreed before following after the others along with the rest of his herd.

Everyone quickly obeyed the little elephant and pony’s command as they all scurried away from the ongoing attack happening around them.

During the chaos, Matilda spotted a unicorn with a purple coat, horn, and matching darker shade of purple hair. Her cutie mark consisted of three cyan diamonds. She was currently helping the Crusaders and Honorary Lion Guard crew in instructing the other inhabitants of where to evacuate to safety and they all willingly followed her directions. From the looks of her, she was incredibly organized much like Twilight and her cutie mark sure looked similar to Rarity’s which got Matilda’s attention.

"You!"

Amethyst Star looked back at her "Me?"

"I've got to move an entire wedding from tomorrow to today at Pride Rock!"

"But nopony's asked me to organize anything since Twilight came to town." She replied unsure if she can step up to the task herself.

Before Matilda could plead her further, Bupu appeared with a confident smile. “I think I can help you both out with that, since I’ve been able to keep these antelope in line ever since I became the leader of the herd so organizing a large crowd should be doable.”

“So you’ll help me?”

Amethyst upon seeing his confidence then smiled as she responded in kind. "I used to be the best organizer in all of Ponyville. And since I’ve seen how Bupu keeps a herd together, you can bet your wedding vows we will!”

“As long as you say the magic words?”

“Please? Both of you?”

“Of course.”

Just then the bugbear growled once more. It had managed to grab hold of both Pinkie and Bunga, giving them both a nuggie with his paws. Rainbow and Fuli tried to save her, but the former was knocked aside by the monster's second paw while the Pegasus ended up hitting a tree. She barely had time to fly out of the way before the monster aimed and crashed into the tree in an attempt to attack her.

"Come on! We better get to the salon before that monster flattens it!" Matilda urgently guided both helpers away before they could get caught in the crossfire.

From the looks at what is happening around them especially when King Simba and Queen Nala moved to join in on the fray not wanting their son to be harmed, everybody was in for a busy day today.

Meanwhile, Derpy was flying by the park, bypassing the Lion and Pony Guard fighting the monster with Applejack trying to subdue the creature with her lasso with Ono going in for the relentless pecking in his attempts to assist her. All while Derpy was far more focused on her dilemma.

"What am I gonna do?" She gasped once she saw the future bride galloping on ahead. Derpy flew beside her in hopes to be able to make up for it. "Matilda! I feel so bad about the invitations! Is there anything I can do—"

"FLOWERS!" Matilda screamed as she galloped away. Derpy smiled upon seeing an opportunity immediately presented to her.

Derpy wasted no time as she made her way back to Ponyville to speak with the flower ponies, Lilly Valley, Daisy and Rose only when she made her request their response was not what she expected it to turn out.

"You want Matilda's arrangements... today?!" Lily gasped and she and her two friends all fainted.

"This is awful!" Daisy shouted.

"The horror, the horror!" Rose exclaimed dramatically.

"So there's no way you can do it?" Derpy asked, hoping there would be some kind of last second solution to the matter.

"We don't even have Matilda's flowers in yet, much less arranged!" Lily gripped her head with her hooves. "This is a disaster!"

Knowing that is going to go nowhere, Derpy turned and walked away from the ponies. "Okay. Thanks anyway."

Just as both Fuli and Rainbow Dash pursed the bugbear, Lilly noticed what the instant rush caused.

"Look, girls! A broken stem on one of the zinnias!"

"Whaaat?!" the three fainted once more. "Oh, the horror, the horror!"

If anybody else saw this, they could only shake their heads and say “Oh, dear.” In response to the overly-dramatic display on par with Rarity’s on a bad day, because clearly these girls have such a high standard in regards to their flowers.

Just outside of Pride Rock, two ponies, a unicorn named Lyra and an earth pony named Bon Bon worked together to decorate the area around them in time for the wedding. So far, everything was going smoothly. Well, the wedding preparations were at least, hard to tell about the battle with the bug-bear outside.

"I have to admit, when Matilda said we needed this place ready by today, I was a little nervous." Bon Bon commented to her partner as they hung decorations from atop Pride Rock.

Lyra smiled in response as they bumped flanks together. "With you by my side, I knew we'd get it done in time."

"There is nothing like a best friend is there?” Bon Bon said.

“Anything’s possible as long as we know each other.” Lyra commented just when they both heard a loud roar in the distance.

"What was that?" Bon Bon asked.

"There's some monster attacking the city or something." Lyra casually replied, like it’s something to expect nowadays.

Bon Bon shared the same casual tone like her partner. “What is it this time? A creature from the Everfree Forest? Another Outsider attack? A fiery enraged alicorn on the loose again?"

“No, no, it’s definitely not Luna nor Twilight. It’s actually some sort of bugbear." Lyra answered.

Suddenly, Bon Bon turned to her friend with a rather serious expression. “Did you say bugbear?" She quickly hid behind the doors in terror. "It found me!"

"What are you talking about, Bon Bon?" Lyra asked, noticing that she is very worried for her life and very unlike her to act like this.

The earth pony took one quick look for anyone nearby before turning back to Lyra. "My name isn't Bon Bon. It's "Special Agent Sweetie Drops". I work for a super-secret anti-monster agency in Canterlot, or at least I did until the bugbear went missing from Tartarus a few years back."

Lyra looked on clearly confused of what she is saying. "What are you talking about?"

Bon Bon then pulled out (apparently from nowhere) a briefcase with all sorts of spy gadgets. She pulled out a grappling hook and a rope. "When it escaped, we had to shutter the whole agency. Every last shred of evidence of the organization's existence was destroyed. Celestia demanded complete deniability."

Lyra was still not getting any of this. "…What?"

"It was me who captured the bugbear. I had to go deep cover in Ponyville and assume the name Bon Bon. I never thought it'd be able to track me, but now it has."

Lyra could not believe what she is hearing now. "Are you saying our whole friendship was based on a lie?!"

"I'm sorry, Lyra! I couldn't tell you for your own protection!"

Now feeling betrayed and on the verge of tears feeling that all of this was a lie moved to confront her supposed friend in front of her. "B-b-but the lunches! The-the long talks! My sister's funeral! The benches we sat on! None of that was real?!"

Bon Bon smiled as she wiped Lyra's tears away. "Of course it was all real. You're my very best friend."

Just then their moment was interrupted when another roar was heard. Bon Bon took her grappling hook and prepared to escape via the widow. "I've got to go find a crowd to blend into before I put you in danger!" She put on a pair of shades. "I'll see you at the wedding." With that, Bon Bon, or more accurately Agent Sweetie Drops, lowered down attaching her hook to the stone rocks of the kingdom's capital and made her way on over to the commotion.

Lyra called out as she ran off. "Fine! But we're going to talk about this later."

Meanwhile, Dr. Hooves was still bowling with the guys where they are all facing a close game with their opponents the hippos, led by Beshte’s father Basi. Thanks to Dr. Hooves they were able to make it a close game.

It all came down to the final frame where Dr. Hooves had just rolled his final frame. Eight out of ten pins were knocked down and unfortunately for him all but the two pins on the far separate ends of the lane.

“Oh…Seven/ten split, man. Harshest of the harsh.” Johari commented with pity that had to happen to him. “But if you pick this up, we win the whole shebang!”

“Come on, work your magic on this shot!” Zito hoped for the best for a first timer as Dr. Hooves quickly did some complicated mathematics calculations with his calculator, abacus, and all devices before moving to try his luck on converting this split.

“Math don’t fail me now.”

With a deep breath and the best calm approach to his roll, he moved to hook it to the left in the hopes of getting the left pin to move and knock over the one on the right. He had the right approach, only when it came down to the crunch the ball only knocked the left pin alone with the right pin remaining untouched leaving three elephants to all groan upon seeing of how close their loss came down to.

“Dang it!”

“So close!”

“Good game.” Ma Tembo moved to shake Basi’s upper leg with her trunk along with the other three hippo’s.

“Same to you as well.” Basi commented like any good sport not even gloating about it before turning the disappointed Dr. Hooves. “And don’t feel too bad about not making that shot. As far as I know no one I know around from home has been able to do it before.”

“I know. It’s just…” The dismayed pony still couldn’t help but remark that he almost had it. “…I hooked it a little too much to the left. I thought I had it there.”

“Well, if you keep practicing then maybe someday you might be able to get that shot all rolled down.” He chuckled along with the other hippos. “Oh, if only my son wasn’t too busy protecting the Pride Lands and Equestria to be able to hear that.”

“Thanks.” Dr. Hooves moved to shake Basi’s hoof as the best good sport and gentleman just when Derpy quickly busted through the doors with good news.

“Doc! I've finally figured out how I can help! Your flameless fireworks look just like flowers! I'll use them for the wedding!”

She quickly flew away to do so much to the doctor’s horror upon seeing that’s not such a good idea at all. “Great whickering stallions! Wait!” He quickly turned to the hippos and elephants he bowled alongside with. “Anyways, I got to get ready for this afternoon. I’ll catch you all sometime next week.” He waved to everyone before rushing on out of the alley to stop Derpy from whatever she is planning. “Wait! The flameless fireworks are extremely volatile! Without knowing what the trigger is, they could go off at any moment…!” Just then he witnessed, the fight between the Lion and Pony Guard with the bugbear continued to rage on having moved to Ponyville now. “… My word, is that a bugbear?"

While Twilight and Kyoga were both trying throwing down their magic at it, Rainbow and Kion trying their work by unleashing their punches and claws at it in an attempt to bring it down, while both Simba and Nala traded stingers and claws to keep it at bay all without getting stung. The bugbear was able to shrug off their attacks although barely since the lion turned alicorn along with his father are really doubling down on his slashing his claws at him, especially after managing to sting Fuli and Rarity during the attack. It was getting to the point both father and son were starting to get the upper hand in this battle.

Just then, Twilight noticed something hiding in the nearby bushes. She smiled knowing exactly who’s lurking in there before rushing on over there after giving the bugbear another blast to buy a quick rush route on over there.

“The banana gets peeled at midnight.” Bon Bon’s voice whispered to her ear as she floated with her head looking on as casual and stoic on an okay day.

“And the grapes are squished in the morning.” Twilight replied while turning her head in the pony’s direction who emerged from the bushes and tilted her shades to reveal her eyes to the pony princess.

“Hello, Agent Sparkle.”

“Hi, Agent Sweetie Drops. Glad you can drop by and as you can see that bugbear isn’t going down that easily.”

“I can tell.”

“You have what we need to take it down?”

“Got it right here.” Sweetie Drops pulled out her briefcase and a small tranquilizer dart and a gun to shoot it with. "One good shot with this, and that beast will go down faster than a raging three-headed chimera in the forest." Sweetie Drops moved to give the dart one good heavy dose of syringe before delicately placing it inside the gun and handing it to the princess. "Can you use this with great responsibility?"

“Absolutely!” She turned to Kion who managed to get a glimpse of their conversation before seeing the alicorn nodding at him.

“Everybody take cover!” Kion shouted to everyone before moving to slash his claws right at the bug bear to get him to looking away from where Twilight is standing so she can take her shot.

Everyone moved to do so just when Twilight moved to shoot the gun with it’s dart aimed directly at the bugbear’s back.

“Night night, crazy guy!” Bunga yelled out just when Twilight pulled the trigger. One swift aim and pull of the trigger, the tranquilizer flew out and hit the bugbear directly on its back. The creature roared in agony before moving to collapse to the ground with now sleepy eyes and his wings folding shut.

Upon seeing the creature is now neutralized, both Kion and Twilight landed in front of it, gave it one good gentle touch to make sure it was out cold, which it was thanks to the powerful chemical used in the tranquilizer dart.

After blowing the smoke from the gun, she declared. “That should keep it down for now.”

“Hopefully.” Kion sighed in relief while being hugged by his parents thankful that he is safe. “Long enough that we can get it back to Tartarus and be back here in time for the wedding.”

“We’ll let the mayor know to what for you all while you all handle that.” The lion king assured before moving on towards the nearby spa so they can both freshen up. “In the meantime Nala, shall we?” He asked with a grin.

“Only if you promise not to drag me in cold water again.” She returned with a knowing look.

“Oh come on Nala, you know I wouldn’t dream of doing that. Besides the water’s hot enough for us both to get comfortable enough before we head back to Pride Rock. And by that I really comfortable.” He added rather suggestively much to his son’s discomfort.

“Just try not to get too comfortable, okay.” Nala kindly yet firmly replied before looking on at their son apologetically for having to witness this along with a look to make it clear one day he’ll understand it when he gets to be their age.

Before heading out, Twilight turned back in Sweetie Drops direction where they both exchanged a final salute before parting ways.

“Ta ta!”

“Thanks Sweetie Drops!”

While the secret agent moved to swing away from the scene, the others moved on over to Tartarus with the now knocked out bearbug in tow.

As a secret agent, nobody really knows who Sweetie Drops really is. The only exception is the prince and princess after being informed by Celestia herself in emergency situations.

Just when Bunga moved to ask about her, Kion quickly shook his head against it. “Uh-uh. Don’t even ask.”

“Why not?!”

Twilight raised a single wing in his direction to silence him. “Sorry, that’s classified information.”

Meanwhile at the spa, Matilda was still frantic over the wedding which is only hours away. "Oh, there are so many things I'm forgetting!" she was laying on a spa-bed with the spa attendants working on her mane, "I hope Cranky remembers to tell the musicians! Oh! Oh! I'll never get my mane done in time!"

Muhimu the zebra who happened to be sitting on the chair next to her moved to comfort her. “Easy, Matilda. I’m sure it’ll all work out in the end. I mean not everything is known to happen under ideally. I mean…” She turned to her boy who is relaxing in the hot tub. “…take my son for example. Giving birth to him didn’t happen in the Pride Lands.”

“No?”

“No. It happened while traveling through the Outlands, and even still he turned out to be fine and is quite a strong and healthy little boy himself.”

The little zebra neighed in response to confirm the truth in her mother’s words just when one of the female spa workers move to tend to ease her worries. "Muhimi’s right, my dear! You must relax! We can handle anything! We once did somebody's hair during the ceremony!"

"Oh, it's true, it's true! They really are the best!" Another guest said, who happened to be the large purple sea monster that the Lion and Pony Guard came across during their first trip to the Everfree Forest resting in the hot tub.

"Matilda, I've just got to say, I already feel like we're family!"

Matilda moved to politely shake his hand though still looked on rather uneasy. "You do?"

"Of course! I'm Stephen Magnet, Cranky's best beast!"

Matilda was very surprised to hear this while the lady worked on her mane. "You're Stephen Magnet?"

"Well, what'd you expect, a bugbear? I've known Cranky forev-er! Surely he must have told you about the time he saved me from Flash Freeze Lake?"

"…You're Stephen Magnet."

"Oh, I know, I know! Typical Cranky, to leave out minor details, like the fact that I'm, y'know, a sea monster, right? I just love that old burro!"

"I'm sorry, Stephen. I guess I assumed you were a pony. And I had no idea you had such adventures together."

"Oh, honey, you don't know the half of it! But let me tell you something. In all that we've been through together, the only thing he ever cared about was finding you."

Matilda wiped away a single tear that escaped her eye. "Really?"

"Well, that and a baldness cure." Stephen added with a laugh.

Matilda smiled as the ladies worked on making her mane stunning for her big day. "He is the sweetest thing, isn't he? All the stress I've put myself through. All the stress I've put him through. The only thing that matters is that we're together. The wedding isn't the important thing – the marriage is."

Much to her surprise, Stephen started laughing in response. "Oh, goodness gracious. If you believe that, I have got a bridge to sell you! All these folk traveling from Ponyville to Pride Rock, putting on uncomfortable clothes, sitting through a long ceremony, you think any of them care about the marriage? Honey, the wedding is everything."

As if that wasn’t bad enough, Matilda was now left shaking and trembling in great worry with what is about to happen…

…luckily for her both the lion king and queen just happened to be escorted inside the room having heard every word before they both moved to help Matilda out with her current wedding stress.

Elsewhere in Ponyville, Vinyl had returned home where she is currently living alongside her cousin Octavia in a house where it each half of the house was styled to their own liking.

Said pony with a pink bowtie was currently practicing on her cello, but she was clearly dissatisfied with the current song she is playing.

"Ugh, all these wedding songs are so... standard. I want Matilda and Cranky's wedding to be special." She continued playing while Vinyl came up with an idea of how to help her out on that.

On her side of the room, Vinyl played on her DJ station, scratching the records, providing dub-step beats to the scene. But it didn’t work wonders with Octavia's music.

"Thanks, but I'm not sure that's appropriate for a wedding, is it?" Octavia resumed her practicing but Vinyl wasn’t about to give up there. She was determined to find the right music to blend with her stylish cello music.

She played a different track, providing backup beats, creating a new and fresh invigorating sound.

"That's more like it!"

The two musically talented ponies continued to play the new music together. For one moment, the two stopped, smiling knowingly at one another. Even when they both different tastes in musics, they both knew of how to make music speak to each other.

Octavia played her cello while Vinyl played on her tracks. The two were completely lost in their own music, once these two got in the grove there was no stopping it. Like true artists. Vinyl plugged in her stereos to increase the sound and Octavia played faster on her cello, both acting like total rock stars. For one final performance, they were going to smash their instruments like a punk rock star until Octavia remembered something very important. Something that’s right around the corner or more accurately something afar.

"Stop! I'm going to be late for the wedding!"

The two then made their way out…ridding on Vinyl's mobile DJ booth.

Along the way, the two started picking up other wedding guests who had all traveled from Ponyville to the Pride Lands for the celebration in the most comedic and unexpected way possible. This was something nobody saw coming.

Amongst the Pride Landers still in Ponyville who ended up getting caught up and catching the literal bus ride on over to the actual wedding destination, were Simba and Nala who had just appeared with newly styled and freshen up suits and dresses, along with Bupu, Laini and the galagos (much to Bupu’s annoyance due to the fact that they are all still clinging onto his fur),

Matilda, now in her wedding gown, was nervously walking with Mr. and Mrs. Cake, who were holding her large wedding cake. The mobile DJ booth swooped in and carried the two as well.

Cranky, with suit and all, saw the contraption coming towards him, but he managed to duck in time…all while losing his wig in the process.

They ended up hitting the Twilicane, dropped by Lemon Hearts, which upturned the vehicle and tossed everybody through the portal and had them all skidding on towards Pride Rock. All the while Gummy the alligator was watching from afar with his usual blank expression. His own words spoken through his own mind.

"What is life? Is it nothing more than the endless search for a cutie mark? And what is a cutie mark but a constant reminder that we're all only one bugbear attack away from oblivion? And what of the poor gator? Flank forever blank, destined to an existential swim down the river of life to... an unknowable destiny?"

Amazingly, everybody who was invited managed to land perfectly onto their chairs, Octavia and Vinyl landed perfectly where the band was to play and the wedding cake landed on the table without a single frosting flower out of place along with a single hair out of place.

Much to Bupu’s relief, the galagos all jumped off of him and rushed on over to their seats. “Now I know how Fuli feels whenever they all jump into her.” He muttered to himself.

Octavia smiled at Vinyl for her quick thinking. "Something like that might work. Nice thinking, cousin."

After that wild experience, more of the guests arrived, including the royal alicorns themselves. Celestia and Luna were currently near the table bearing wedding gifts for the bride and groom, though both sisters were speaking amongst each other in a rather angry tone with each other because they apparently realized something at the last second when they got there.

"What do you mean you left it on the counter?!"

"I thought you were bringing it!" Luna replied through her teeth.

"Well, this is just wonderful!"

The two princesses put on fake smiles on Spike walked up and placed his own present on the table before leaving.

"I handled the gift for Cadance and Shining Armor!" said Luna, "You were supposed to do this one, remember?"

"Well, we can't just come to this wedding empty-hoofed!"

“Ahem!” Kiara’s voice called out to them as she looked on with narrowed eyes and appeared at the table with the gift they accidentally left behind along with placing her own at the table. “You’re welcome.”

Both sisters were left feeling and looking sheepish as a result of the young princess’s helpful act though she wasn’t really too pleased of having to do it. At least it was a good thing they agreed to watch over her while their parents helped the Lion and Pony Guard deal with the bugbear. Deep down she is starting to feel that nearly losing Kion had quite an impact on them.

At the same time, she happened to turn her head towards Shining Armor sobbing like a baby while his wife tried her best to comfort him. “Is he okay?”

"It's alright." She assured the young lion princess. "He always cries at weddings." To her and Kiara’s surprise, Shining Armor bawled even harder much to the former’s eye rolling dismay. "…Usually it's not until the wedding starts."

At that point they heard two more voices bawling their eyes out, and it just so happened to be the gorilla princes that the Lion and Pony Guard escorted back home once before after they forgot their father’s message to King Simba one time.

“And it sounds like I have found my boys new friends already.” The gorilla king remarked while taking pity on them. “As long as the lovely lady doesn’t wind up suffering an unfortunate accident.” He muttered that part to himself not wanting to draw even more question marks from both princesses.

“What was that?” Kiara asked having picked that bit up.

“Nothing. That’s for another time, okay.”

“Fine.”

Derpy having arrived moved to admire the display of the colorful flower shaped stones she had borrowed from Dr. Hooves. "These flameless fireworks look even better than flowers!"

Both Simba and Nala had arrived and with the latter moving to take her seats next to their daughter with spots open for the Lion and Pony Guard to sit next to them. Since Pride Rock is his kingdom capital, Simba will have the honor of marrying both Matilda and Cranky Doodle today.

“Are both Kion and Twilight okay? And did you get to take that bugbear down alongside the Lion and Pony Guard?” Her eldest child asked her mother as she sat next to her.

“Of course they’re okay. Everything all went accordingly.” She gently assured with a warm motherly smile.

“But where are they?!” She urgently asked upon seeing the wedding is about to start.

“Knowing Twilight…” She replied as she saw the sun in position ready to set just when warm colors appeared in the sky. “…they should be here right about…

Instantly, with one teleportation spell, the Lion and Pony Guard had appeared right on the spot, and all in their best clothes along with everyone in attendance.

“Now!”

Upon arriving and getting everyone's attention, Kion moved to make an announcement. "Great news, everybody! The bugbear is defeated and is back in Tartarus as we speak!"

Everybody in the room cheered, giving Bon Bon the chance to quietly approach Lyra, who sat with her legs and arms crossed, not looking at her, still hurt by her sudden departure and reveal that she’s a secret agent.

"Hey."

"Hello." Lyra still didn't look at her.

"So, uh, you didn't happen to mention our earlier conversation about my secret identity…" She whisper asked through gritted teeth, "…to anybody, did you?"

Lyra finally opened her eyes and turned to look at the secretive pony in the eyes in return. "No. I did not. And you're not the only one with a secret, y'know. You know those expensive imported oats you were saving for a special occasion? I cooked them up and ate them! All of them!"

Lyra glared at Bon Bon, but she could tell by just reading her expression that Lyra wasn’t really mad and upon realizing it the former started to laugh.

"It's sort of thrilling to reveal your deepest, darkest secrets!"

"That's what best friends are for. You're the brains…"

"And you're the bronze."

The two best friends embraced each other with a warm and friendly hug just knowing that no secret could break the strong and powerful bond they shared together. A best friend bond, heck, maybe even a romantic bond like two peas in a pod.

At the same time on the opposite side of the seating, both Celestia and Luna were still sour with each other for forgetting the wedding present, only to have the soon to be queen of the Pride Lands be the one to bring it.

"Next time, you can just bring your own gift, and I'll bring mine." Celestia said to Luna in a hushed and still angry tone.

"Fine." She bitterly agreed.

Derpy looked around to her surrounding on towards the portal to make sure that was the last of the guests arriving just when Dr. Hooves came galloping towards Pride Rock. Once he approached her, she saw that the pony is now wearing a long colorful scarf around his neck and the same outfit he was wearing the first time he came.

"There you are! My suit has vanished and this was the only thing left in my closet! How do I look?"

"Like a million bits!" Derpy happily replied as she hugged him.

For a moment, the Doc actually enjoyed the embrace feeling great relief and pleasure out of it.

He then shook his head, realizing what was happening upon seeing what is in front of him upon seeing the sun is about to set.

"Great whickering stallions, look at the time! We'd better get on over there. Allons-y!" He walked on over to where the seats are placed, all while looking aside to hide his personal embarrassment.

Cranky stood to the side, where Stephen was, with the former still very reluctant to go on with the wedding. "I can't believe I lost my hair! I look ridiculous. The love of my life deserves better than this!"

"Have no fear, Cranky, my dear. It's Stephen Magnet's mustache to the rescue!" Using one of his scales, much like Rarity did when they first met, he cut off his mustache and placed it over Cranky's head, combed it and added hair spray for that special shine fit for a wedding. Now Cranky’s previous frown turned upside down.

"Aw, thanks, buddy."

The happy sea monster hugged him. "Oh, no problem." He then gently pushed him forward towards the altar, "Now you get in there and marry that donkey!"

Matilda and Cranky were now facing one another under a hand-crafted altar where they both smiled very happy for each other, while Simba stood in the center, ready to start the ceremony.

"Well, is everybody here?" Upon seeing that are no more last second arrivals he proceeded to start the ceremony. “Good!” He cleared his throat before beginning with everyone all focused on the happy couple.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join these two in mare-trimony. As I look around this room, I can only imagine how uncomfortable Cranky must be." The audience laughed as the groom tugged on his collar, already sweating, but not out of nervousness, but embarrassment knowing just how true to the core it is. "But I also see so many ponies and Pride Landers, closet friends and allies from here to the most snowy hills and mountains beyond the northern border outside of the kingdom, from all parts from of this kingdom and all of Equestria, brought together by love."

Cadance nuzzled against Shining Armor who returned it in kind by wrapping his arm around her with a single tear falling down from his eye. At the same time, Muhimu smiled as she watched her little boy give a soft neigh in response to the king’s ongoing speech.

"Cranky searched all across the great land of Equestria to find Matilda, and no matter what obstacles kept them apart, love would finally bring them together, just as it has brought all of us together now."

As Simba spoke, both Celestia and Luna looked at each other with regret before smiling and held hooves together. After all they went through in the last thousand years it would be silly of them to this little argument like this get between them. They still loved each other and are together again and that’s what matter the most.

"It's remarkable to me how a story like Cranky's search for Matilda could fill this room with such a unique collection of friends! It makes you realize that everybody is the star of their own story. And it's not just the main characters in our stories that make life so rich! It's everybody and everypony – those who play big parts and those who play small."

"If it weren't for everybody in this room and many more who couldn't be here today, Cranky and Matilda's lives wouldn't be as full and vibrant as they are."

Even though the speech itself was meant for the couple, everyone could tell that he is also talking about each and everyone here today. How much they all meant to him and how much they all meant to each other. Stephen started to cry tears of joy as he hugged Bulk Biceps who was left completely caught off-guard by the heartwarming gesture.

"And so, in front of all these loved ones... Cranky, do you take this donkey to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

"You bet I do!"

"And do you, Matilda, take this donkey to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Matilda started tearing up, "I do!"

"Then I'm proud to say, I now pronounce you jack and jenny!"

The two lovers sealed their newly blossomed marriage with a kiss, which had everyone clapping and cheering happily for them.

Suddenly, the flameless fireworks started to glow and rise up. Dr. Hooves watched on as his creations started to activate. In a dazzling display, the fireworks went up, exploding into the sky in a fantastic rainbow sparkle display while wowing everybody.

Dr. Hooves laughed with joy and hugged Derpy. "Of course! They need love to ignite! How could I have missed it?!"

Matilda and Cranky happily watched on as they held on to each other together. While their wedding didn’t go the way they expected, but it still all worked out in the end.

An hour later just when the sun is starting to disappear during the reception, Matilda and Cranky shared their first dance as husband and wife while everybody else chatted happily with one another, talking about how beautiful the wedding was and what a happy couple Cranky and Matilda made.

All while the Lion and Pony Guard all watched from afar on top of a building, happily gazing down at all of the love down below. The love between everyone around being a blessing in full display all around them whether it was from friends, or siblings, or husbands and wives, neighbors, cousins, teammates, co-workers, all of them showered with happiness all amongst each other.

“You know something, guys and girls.” Twilight said to everyone. “We are so lucky to be able live here and in Equestria. I can't imagine how things would be had I not met you all."

“Probably a bleak and friendless background before turning to a life of crime.” Bunga replied with a chuckle before realizing what he just said. “I mean, probably not quite as warm and colorful as the sky right now.”

Twilight didn’t take offense to that and lightly jabbed him in the elbow. “Nope.”

“That’s true Little B.” Beshte agreed. “"I can't even imagine what it would be like without having meet everyone of her in Equestria."

“And I could say the same thing about what it would be like if we hadn’t come across Ponyville when we did.” Ono said agreeing with Beshte too.

“Well it certainly wouldn’t have been as wonderful as we are right now.” Kion commented. “And I’m sure glad to have you in your lives right now.”

“And I couldn’t have said it any better myself.” Twilight agreed with that statement wholeheartedly before they all gathered together for a group hug. “I love you all so much!"

During the group hug, Kion wrapped one of his free paws around Fuli’s back at the same time Applejack did the same with Rarity who both winced in pain.

"Ow! Kion, that's where the bugbear bit me!"

“Mine too, Applejack!”

"Sorry!"

“My bad, Rarity!”

Author's Note

Here I sure you know as indicated on the top of the title it is the 100th episode of MLP along with the 150th overall TPG episode of this crossover where background characters of have spent every episode up to this point finally taking a turn stepping up to the spotlight while the Lion and Pony Guard are all busy taking on a bugbear together at the same time Cranky Doodle and Matilda are finally (though prematurel thanks to certain pony's screw-up) getting married.

As you have probably read at this point, you'll see which characters I have chosen for get a fair share of the spotlight in this episode which I hope you agree with me they are all good choices given the episode's events itself and like past writing decisions wasn't an easy to do but it was eventually doable.

Like many adventures come and gone preparations came with struggles and friendships being tested from time to time but they all prevailed in the end and they were all able to come out stronger than before while watching two donkeys finally have their long-awaited marriage after being apart for so many years with new lessons learned by the side characters and seeing a part of their days go by like it was an action-packed adventure the Lion and Pony Guard go through every day.

Next up we have Spike and Bunga tasked with watching over Princess Twilight while recuperating from three sleepless nights of planning the annual Princess Summit. With one of them sure in to let said privileges and status of being the Princess's friend getting to his head along with allowing another domino effect to take place. So stay tuned until then...

Spoiler alert: For those anxious to know who the princess is going to be : It's someone who has been there before and it is not someone who is wise enough not to repeat the same mistake twice.

Episode 14: Princess Bunga

Episode 14:

Princess Bunga

“So Un-Bunga-veilable!”

Bunga was about as happy as the day Kion choose him to become a part of the Lion Guard when he was invited to join Kion in attending the annual Equestria Summit. Along with the alicorn princesses, the lion king and queen are both attending along with the lion Princesses Kiara and Kyoga. In addition, delegates from all over the world are all attending the event at the Canterlot Castle.

His job much like what Twilight would ask Spike to do is helping his buddy Prince Kion on with the preparations, not that Bunga minded at all. As long as he got to stand by his friend’s side that’s all that matters.

Come opening ceremony time, he stood alongside Spike and the rest of the alicorns and lions, who stood at the very top of the staircase. The delegates were eager not only to see them but for the unveiling of a new large statue in the ballroom, covered by a cloak. Fanfare sounded off as the royals stepped forward.

"Welcome to the Grand Equestria Summit!" Luna greeted everyone as the crowd all cheered for them.

Celestia then spoke next. "You delegates have traveled far and wide to represent your cities and nations as we seek to celebrate and learn from all the unique places that make up our wonderful home worlds. At tonight's welcome reception, Princess Cadance will dedicate this beautiful friendship statue made up of gemstones from each of your home cities."

Using her magic, both Celestia and Luna both removed the sheet to reveal the pony statue, made and decorated with all of the most colorful gemstones. It was truly a remarkable sight to behold, so much that Spike couldn't help but lick his lips due to his love for gemstones. But of course, as Twilight would say if they were at home, "The statue is not a dragon’s dinner, don’t even think about it." So Spike had to keep it together.

Simba next moved to speak so he can hand the floor over to the ones who made this possible today. "Now I'd like to turn things over to the ones who organized the summit: Princess Twilight Sparkle, Princess Kiara and Prince Kion!"

The three stepped forward to speak with the crowd with the alicorn speaking first. Judging from the look on her eyes she’s been up many nights helping putting together the summit but she still put forward enough energy to assure to the crowd that everything is all right.

"Thank you, everypony, everybody. With delegates from over both worlds attending three days of conferences, receptions, and meetings, this is the largest Grand Equestria Pony Summit yet. And let me tell you, putting it all together has led to more than one sleepless night."

Kiara then stepped forward and moved to speak next. “We're so excited to have you all here and to learn more about life all across this great land and beyond."

The crowd cheered, stomping their hooves and clapping their paws. Bunga moved to nudge Kion in the arm to get her attention. "And now my good friend Bunga would like to say a few words."

Bunga then stepped forwards with a bright smile with his claws out in the open, trying to be as proud and mighty as the other royals standing behind him. "Thank you Prince Kion and hello everybody! For those who don’t know me my name is Bunga the Lion Guard’s Bravest and I'm here to help any way I can. So if there's anything I can do for any of you—"

"We love you, Princess Twilight! You too Princess Kiara! Prince Kion!" One of the ponies in the crowd interrupted and cheered.

"We love all the princesses!"

“And our king and queen!”

The crowd cheered once more for their beautifully perfect royals, while Bunga nervously smiled as he awkwardly tiptoeing away from the center of the stage, all while frowning and dropping his shoulders in disappointment. "I guess everybody loves a princess."

Later that morning, Spike was organizing Twilight's books in her room at Canterlot, while Bunga moved to help out although he didn’t share the same energy and enthusiasm as him. The dragon could tell from just one look at him that he is clearly disappointed in what happened back there.

“Aw, come on, Bunga. It wasn't so bad."

"Says the little dragon who’s an official royal assistant to one princess, not to mention a hero to the Crystal Empire."

“Okay, so?”

“At least you get to stand beside Twilight at every meeting she attends to, along with getting praise near and far from every pony from the Crystal Empire in attendance. As for me, I’m just the guy who has the prince and princesses back when trouble arises.”

“But you’re the Lion Guard’s Bravest, who managed to pull off bold and brave feats of heroism in the face of danger.” Spike reminded. “You’re more than what you say you are.”

“Am I? Or am I just the guy who gets lucky in being reckless at times?”

Now Spike had a hard time answering this question before trying to be as delicate about it as possible. “To be honest, I’d like to say a little from both column A and B but more about leaning on column A.”

Sadly, it didn’t help matters at all. “Is that your best idea of helping me or trying to make me feel like a crazy idiot?”

“What do you think?” Spike replied unsure of what else he wants him to say. “I’m trying to help see that you have a role of importance in the Circle of Life and in striving for peace and harmony.”

“Well that’s helpful.” Bunga rolled his eyes just when Kion suddenly busted inside the room accidentally slamming both boys in the face with it while sending the dragon flying into a nearby pile of books.

“Bunga! Spike! Whoops! Sorry about that!”

Upon realizing his mistake, he quickly opened the door and pulled the honey badger away from the wall and then moved to use his magic to pull Spike out the pile of books he landed in.

“No worries.”

“Hakuna Matata.”

“So anyways…” Spike spoke to get things back on track. “…what’s going on?”

"Nothing majorly wrong, but it's something that we need your help with!”

“With what?” Bunga asked as Kion turned their heads towards the door as it opened once more a very sleepy, and completely exhausted looking Twilight Sparkle. She had deep circles and bags under her eyes, her hair was a mess, she can barely walk, she found herself wobbling as she walked, and she couldn't keep her eyes open. “Oh...Oh!” It took Bunga an extra few seconds to see what was really happening just when Kiara rushed inside to help her keep her balance.

Spike winced at the sight of her. "Whoa, what happened to you?"

Twilight groaned tiredly. "I'm sorry, Spike. I just…" She yawned, "…need a quick... nap." she wobbled back forcing Kiara to catch her as she found herself resting on the pile of books as if it were a bed. "Napkin! Tell the delegates I'll…" she trailed off before falling asleep. It was perfectly clear that she is delirious and completely spent from all of those sleepless nights.

"She's been awake three straight days preparing for the summit!" Kiara explained as she moved to duck under her body before moving to carry her on over to her bed. "We need to make sure she gets some rest today."

"Wait a minute." Bunga interrupted still confused. "I thought you both were working alongside her during this summit. So how come you two aren’t tired?"

“Because Mom and Dad made it clear that we are getting are rest regardless whether we are finished or not with whatever we are doing.” Kiara explained in a tone that makes it clear she is not in the mood for jokes right now.

“But Twilight, being Twilight…” Kion said with a knowing sigh. “…won’t take no for an answer."

“Sounds about right.” Spike commented. "Never one to stop until the job is completed.”

“Yes, but she'll never be able to attend the welcome reception in this condition and we still got things to take care of before that happens."

Kiara after placing Twilight in her bed turned to both boys for a royal task to bestow on them. “Spike, Bunga, can we count on you both to make sure she isn't disturbed?"

Bunga was especially delighted to hear a royal command from Princess Kiara and not one to disappoint his best friend, he was more than happy to step up to it as he and Spike both saluted.

"You got it, your highness's!"

"We won't let you down!"

When the sleeping alicorn moved to try to get herself up, Kiara quickly tucked the blanket over her.

“Easy Twilight.” She moved to gently adjust her pillow while hugging her afterwards. Recognizing that gentle hug had Twilight ease back into going to sleep. “Just relax and get some rest. You’re definitely going to need it.” She moved to pull the curtains closed before she and Kion tiptoed their way out of the room but not without whispering one last request for the boys. “Make sure she isn’t disturbed until she wakes up."

Both boys saluted again as they both gently shut the door and placed a “Do Not Disturb.” sign on the door outside.

Twilight slept and snore in her bed, while Bunga and Spike marched inside the room, both holding telescopes over their shoulders like soldiers. Spike then moved to look out the window to see if there was any trouble that they should be considered about. So far, all he saw was a female unicorn pushing a baby stroller, a male unicorn drinking some coffee, and a pony mime. Upon seeing nothing that needs to be of concern, Spike gave the thumbs up to Bunga.

“Perfect." Bunga smiled proudly until the sound of loud chirping was heard. They both looked through their telescopes and spotted a bird on top of one of the castle towers, singing rather loudly from afar.

"Not on my watch." Spike quickly moved to jump out the window and climbed up to the tower in hopes of talking the bird down. "Uh, excuse me? Can you keep it down a little?"

But instead of complying, the bird flew off…right into Twilight's room, right on top of her horn.

"Oh, no!"

The bird landed on Twilight's horn and continued to sing. Bunga quickly rushed over waving his arms around frantically in his attempts to stop it. "Come on bird, get out of here!" He whispered, but the bird did not obey. "Okay, okay that was rude of me! Here…” He pulled out some worms from behind his back. “I'll give these in exchange if you don’t wake the princess!"

The bird stopped and looked down at Twilight. Judging from the look the bird gave to the sleeping alicorn the bird didn’t know that she’s a princess. The bird bowed in respect, took the offered worms, and flew away out the window just when Spike arrived, only to find the bird gone.

“What happened?"

“Oh, nothing really.” Spike looked on still expecting a more specific answer in response. “Just gave her a few worms and told her that said pony trying to sleep is a princess, and then she left and called it a day.”

"Really?"

“Yeah!”

Now Spike was impressed, "Huh. I can't believe that actually worked."

“Yep.” Bunga took great pride with his small accomplishment. “Guess that takes care of that…”

Suddenly he was just proven wrong when they heard incredibly loud cheering and shouting coming from down below, where various ponies were having a polo game. Twilight started to groan and turn in her sheets in response to the loud commotion.

“Not a problem!” Bunga quickly assured before leaping out the window and on over where the ponies are playing. “I got this!”

After leaping down from roof top to roof top he was able to get down onto the ground where he is quick to catch the polo ball mid-air when he leaped in the thick of the action. “Zuka Zama!”. Upon facing an angry mob, he kept his cool and played it casually. “Hey fellas. Um…sorry to break up your game, but there's sort of an important diplomatic summit kind of thingy going on, and it involves a princess needing to sleep, and, uh... maybe you could move your game somewhere else?…Please?"

The ponies all looked at one another before looking back at him. "Did you say the princess?" One asked.

“Yep.”

"Okay. Come on boys!” Said pony led everyone away with their sticks and polo balls in tow thus surprising Bunga once more.

“All right. Two in a roll. It’s a new record!”

Once again he’s find himself at work once more when he heard the sound of a chainsaw buzzing. A green colored Pegasus pony was cutting down the branches of a tree of very beautiful red leaves that would make Spike sneeze if he ever got near them. Unquestionably the noise would definitely wake up Twilight.

Bunga hopped onto his back so he can speak to him from up close. “Uh, Excuse me. Do you have to do this right now?"

The pony briefly stopped what he was doing so he can properly reply. "Uh, these are too top-heavy. Wouldn't take much to bring these beauties down."

"Can't you just wait a few hours?"

"Sorry, it's a public hazard. I got my orders."

"Well, I've got my orders too from Princess Twilight and--"

"Princess Twilight? Why didn't you say so? Gee, I reckon they'll keep a few more hours." The pony kindly walked away, leaving Bunga even more amazed by the wonders of the name of royalty.

"Huh. Good thing I've got the prince and princesses on my side."

Suddenly, the ground began to shake causing Bunga to have vibrating yelps, literally felling his body jump up and down rapidly at the sound of a jackhammer rattling. He was moved towards where the sound came from and saw it was a worker unicorn repairing a water main.

"Aw, come on! Excuse me?" Bunga once more resorted to shouting. "Excuse me, sir! I really need you to—" He didn't realize by now the jackhammer had stopped. "—stop right now!...Oh."

"Lemme guess, the noise?" The pony in return asked loudly. "Sorry, but we can't have a broken water main!" He gestured to the cracked main in the crater down below, with drops of water dripping out from it.

"You couldn't do this yesterday?!"

"Hey, pal, I'm just tryin' to make sure everything runs smooth for the summit!"

"But there is no summit without Princess Twilight, and she needs things to be kept quiet around here. So if you don't mind, I'd—"

"Alright, alright, if that's how she wants it!" The pony was about to walk away but then used his magic to pull Bunga up and over face to face with narrowed eyes. "But if something happens, it ain't my fault!"

Once the pony released Bunga and left he looked around to find that there was no more sound aside from the soft gentle sound of the water. He felt pleased with himself upon actually achieving peace and quiet for once so Twilight could sleep, and if she’s well-rested by the next welcome reception then the summit will go on as planned.

“Nice and quiet. Just the way I like it!”

Bunga then gently opened the doors of Twilight's room to where Spike was still keeping watch. The little dragon quickly ran out so they can converse without waking her up.

“Everything all good?”

“Yep.” Bunga said proudly. "Thanks to me, there is no polo games, no tree cutting, and no jack-hammering. So that said, Twilight is going to sleep like a baby until she is well-rested and ready for the summit to continue. Ooh!" He then pulled out the flowers he managed to obtain from the tree he came across. “What do you think of these flowers? Think they’d make a nice addition to the summit?” Immediately Spike’s nose twitched, then his eyes turned red and teary as he started to sneeze.

"Ah…ah…aaaaaa--choo!" Spike released a puff of green fire from his mouth. "Oh, no! Bunga, those are dragon-sneezes! Please, get rid of them!"

“But…”

“Now!”

Bunga quickly threw away the flowers and raised his arms in surrender. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to put you on the spot like that.”

“It’s okay…” He said as his nose cleared up before quickly peaking inside to make sure Twilight is still asleep. She still is. “..you didn’t know, and I’m sorry I had to yell at you like that!”

“Hakuna Matata…” He shrugged it off before pulling out some grubs and sapphire diamonds so they can snack on to pass the time. “…so anyways, with Princess Twilight guaranteed to be rested, both Kion and Kiara will be proud of us, I think this calls for a reward."

“Totally!”

Just as they were about to enjoy their snack they heard two ponies coming up the stairs, arguing with one another.

“What the…?”

“Are you kidding me?”

The two placed their snacks aside before addressing the approaching ponies.

Said ponies were the Manehattan Whinnyapolis Delegates. The Manehattan one was male, large with a tan colored coat and dark hair with green eyes, wearing a suite and a pizza cutie mark. The Whinnyapolis was female pony with rosy eyes, blond mane and tail wearing a brown winter hat and jacket with a coffee cup cutie mark.

"Uh, hi. Can we help you?" Spike asked.

The Whinnyapolis delegate spike first. "My friend here, the distinguished pony from up Manehattan, and I are in a bit of a pickle, and we need the Princess Twilight to resolve it."

"Uh, can you talk a little quieter?" Spike asked politely.

"And maybe come back later?" Bunga added in the same polite manner.

"Oh, sure now, gosh, I wish we could but, uh, we're both supposed to give speeches about our local economies in five minutes, and we've been booked in the same hall!"

"I had the room first." The Manehattan delegate said in a rather argumentative tone. "And let's be honest, my speech is more important."

The Whinnyapolis delegate rolled her eyes, "Point of order there, sir, but I think you'll find that my speech is the more important one, don't'cha know?"

The Manehattan delegate gestured to the two boys. "Look, youse is gonna have a lot of unhappy delegates on your hooves unless we get a ruling from Princess Twilight right now!"

Both Bunga and Spike turned towards each other unsure of what to do. They couldn’t wake Twilight up, but it seems they have little choice in the matter.

“What do we do?” Bunga whispered to Spike. “Should we?”

Spike sighed seeing that their hands are tied here. “Lemme see what I can do."

He opened the door to find Twilight still asleep. He quietly walked up to her, internally debating whether or not he should wake her up to help resolve this matter. He flinched when Twilight sat up, but only barely with her eyes open.

"Does something need scheduling?" she asked, half asleep.

"Oh, uh, yeah. Two delegates have speeches booked in the same hall. What do I do?"

Twilight yawned, "Okay, no problem. Just put the hay in the apple and eat the candle, hm?" Twilight yawned once more before dozing off.

Bunga whisper called out to him from the door. “Well…?”

“Not happening. Twilight' still too sleep deprived to help us out here!"

"Then what do we do now?!"

The two delegates were already getting impatient. "Well? What did she say?" the male pony asked, "She picked me, right?"

"Hey, hey, hey. Let's not be too hasty there, good sir. I got a feeling she went with me."

"He-hey, if she didn't pick me, it ain't hard to see that as an insult to all of Manehattan! You know what I'm saying'?"

"And it'd sure be a shame to see something like a scheduling issue create a nasty old rift between Whinnyapolis and Ponyville."

The two boys were literally sweating in terror unsure of how to handle this.

“It sure would.…” Bunga laughed nervously. But then he got an idea just when the two ponies patience was already running out.

"So? What did the Princess say?"

“The Princess said that she thinks it would be best that you two work it out together. You know, maybe instead of fighting for your rights, maybe try sharing the same room together on behalf of both of you and your cites.” He suggested.

Spike was left in stunned shock in response to a bright idea coming from the honey badger’s mind while the two delegates looked on in silence until the make pony spoke up.

"If that's what the princess wants, what are ya gonna do?" He shook hooves with his companion, setting aside their differences.

"The princess is always right!"

The two ponies, now on much more friendly terms with one another, left the two boys who sighed in relief.

"I can't believe that worked." Spike commented now mildly impressed. “Great job, Bunga!”

“Eh, I knew I could handle this!” Bunga stated proudly before focusing on the snacks they were about to enjoy. “And now, time for that much-needed and long awaited rewards right in front of us.”

Sometime later, the two were now lazily sitting in front of the doors, all while relaxing and feeling certain there would be no more interruptions…at least until another pony delegate walked up to them, starling them to wake up. Said pony had a blue mane, tail, and coat, along with a matching blue mustache and red tie.

"Combining those two talks was a disaster! The hall was overcrowded and the speakers just shouted over each other!"

"Huh? B-but—"

"Why would the princess have made such a decision?!"

Spike glared at Bunga, who smiled and shrugged innocently and nervously. More annoyed chatter was heard as more and more delegates walked up the stairs. So much for smooth sailing thanks to a blind decision from the Lion Guard’s Bravest. The growing commotion was now sure to wake Twilight up.

"Uh, by order of Princess Twilight, be quiet!" Bunga shouted to everyone before clasping his hands over his mouth. “Please.” He quickly and calmly uttered upon realizing of how loud he just said it.

One of the delegates, a Pegasus named Fluffy Clouds, stood before them with tears in his eyes. "I was really looking forward to the "Don't Spend All Your Bit" Speech, but when I went into the hall, a pony had taken my seat. A pony who used to be my friend!"

Bunga looked on very confused and rather baffled in response. “Your friend took your seat? Hah, big deal! Why don't you just—"

"No offense, but I don't need some random human boy's opinion. I-I want to hear what Princess Twilight thinks."

The dragon huffed in response until Bunga spoke up, "Let me have a word with the princess." He walked inside for a brief moment before walking back out. "The princess says no friendship should end over a seat. You should forgive your friend!"

Fluffy Clouds gasped in realization. "Of course! Oh, the princess is so wise!"

Seeing how happy he was, all of the other delegates wanted to hear from the princess. Spike then got an idea, since Bunga wanted so badly to feel he was contributing to something he decided to help out. He stepped forward, easing the anxious crowd.

"Everybody, easy. Any questions you have you can ask Bunga. The princess has appointed him to speak for her while she works."

"Yeah. Really?"

"And me, Spike the dragon, his assistant for the day."

Bunga turned to whisper to Spike. "You sure you want to go through with this?”

"Of course! We can tell these delegates anything as long as they think it came from Twilight. This coming from the guy who wanted to feel special like your pal Kion."

“Well, yeah.” He replied like it was a rhetorical question before realizing and moving to take up the task in hand. “Yeah…” He said before addressing the crowd ready to help them out one by one. “Alright! Who's next?"

For the rest of the day, with Spike using a clipboard, he and Bunga attended to anybody who came to ask them for advice from the princess. Every time somebody or somepony asked them a question, Bunga would walk inside the room, pretending to speak with Twilight, and give them either her seal of approval or polite rejection. So far, all the choices he made were fair. He thought hard on what they asked for and made sure everything would work smoothly. If something wasn't going to go right he would decline it.

Spike was very impressed, mainly for the fact that Bunga for once was actually wise and thoughtful with his handling in the matter. Much like the Inspiration Manifestation crisis except the world hasn’t gone topsy turvy this time around. Bunga proved to be a capable smooth operator while Spike gave Bunga some advice in case he got stumped. They were both feeling great with what they were doing, Spike loved to be an assistant while Bunga loved feeling important and having others look up to him for advice especially when it was for once good advice in contrast to the time when the Pride Landers back home blindly turned to him for advice.

With every new pony and Pride Lander he assisted, Bunga's confidence grew more and more. Their final delegate of the day was none other than Fancy Pants himself from Canterlot.

"So, how can Princess Twilight be of service?" Bunga asked the unicorn.

"Well, as host city, the Canterlot delegation feels it's only right that we should get passes to every meeting and party, yes?"

"Well, that doesn't seem fair—" Bunga cleared his throat and quickly corrected himself mid-sentence. "I mean, Princess Twilight doesn't think that seems fair."

"Ehhh… yes, yes, very well. It was worth a try though, wasn't it, old chap, hm?"

Bunga couldn't help but raise his fists up in victory. "This is great! We just took care of a whole bunch of stuff that Twilight won't have to worry about when she wakes up! Wonder if anybody else needs the princess's help?"

"I think we've done enough today, Bunga. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves here."

"Oh! I know! Why don't you go inside and get Twilight's to-do list. If we check a few of those off of her schedule, then when she wakes up, she won't have to think about anything but the reception."

Spike pondered before replying. "I suppose we could do that." He admitted that was actually a good idea.

"Of course it is! Have I ever steered you wrong?"

“Well, as a matter of fact…”

“Just go get Twilight’s agenda.” He gently insisted Spike inside who reluctantly took the list from the table.

As the two walked down the streets of Canterlot, Spike went over the list while Bunga was basking in the praise has was receiving from a lot of the various delegates he had already helped.

"Great advice, Bunga!"

"Lookin' good, buddy!"

"Thanks again!"

"The princess sure if lucky to have ya!"

For once, Bunga never felt proud being able to successfully help out outside of his duties for the Lion and Pony Guard it was even more satisfying compared to the one time where everyone once looked up to him for advice only for it all to go horribly wrong in the end.

“Okay…” Spike said as he went over the list. “…if we play this right, I’m sure we can get this done by the time Twilight wakes up, won’t agree Bunga…” He suddenly saw that Bunga was no longer walking beside. “Bunga?” He then sighed to himself. “Oh, no...” He realized that this is going down like he thought. “…once again Bunga the Wise is heading off to cause trouble…again. Is he ever going to learn.” He muttered to himself before moving to take care of his half of the work all while hoping that it doesn’t end badly.

Bungan approached a female, nerdy looking pony sitting at an outside cafe, drinking a mocha. He waved at her, "Hi! Says here you have a meeting with Princess Twilight?"

"Uh, yuppers. She wanted me to prep her on all the different gemstones in the Citizens of Equestria statue before the reception tonight." She placed a diagram of the statue and the different stones onto the table.

"Okay, go ahead."

The nerdy delegate arched an eyebrow having personal objections to that. "Um, well, I'd rather, um, tell the princess directly."

"Well, if it helps, you can call me 'Princess Bunga'." He noticed the pony was about to leave in response. "No-no-no, it's alright. The princess asked me to take care of a few things for her. That's why I came to find you."

"Um, if you say so."

"The princess says so!"

"Uh, okay. Let's start with topaz…"

The unicorn worker from before bit on an apple while waiting for somepony to arrive.

"I'm here for your two o'clock!" Spike told the pony once he arrived.

"You?! But I'm supposed to be briefing Princess Twilight on the progress with the water main!"

"I speak for the Princess."

"Uh, well, uh, can I start fixing it again? I'm getting a little worried, to be honest." The pony looked down at the water main, which was actually looking worse than before. Spike upon seeing the leakage getting worse was ready to agree with him there, but before he could give him the green light, Bunga suddenly appeared and interrupted him before he could get a word out.

"Actually, Twilight still needs her rest, and her no-noise policy is still in effect for a few more hours. Sorry."

“Bunga…” Spike elbowed him in the ribs. “…we should probably be more considerate here.” He gestured to the broken water pipes. “That water main is looking like it is going to burst any second now."

Bunga quickly shrugged him off. “Relax, Spike. He can wait a longer.”

Just then Kiara came and walked up to them. “Hey, guys." She greeted sounding and looking concerned. "What's going on?"

Bunga brushed his claws against his chest before looking aside. “Oh, you know, just settin' 'em up and knockin' 'em down!"

"What do you mean?" Kiara asked curiously.

"Not only have I kept things quiet so Twilight could sleep, I also took care of all her afternoon meetings so she won't have to worry about them when she wakes up."

Spike was quick to correct him, "And me! I helped out with that too!"

“Right, right.”

"Are you sure she would want you doing that?" Kiara asked now sounding concerned. "There are so many things to keep track of at this summit."

Bunga casually dismissed it while smiling. “Nah, don't worry. I got it covered. I know Twilight so well, it's easy to make decisions like her!"

Kiara still looked on wary while full aware of the last time others came to him for advice but approached her concerns tactfully. "Well, it’s good to hear that you're keeping Twilight's stress level down. As long as that's the real reason you're doing it."

"Well, why else would I be doing it?"

Kiara looked on at him seriously like he is reading him like a book. “You're not enjoying speaking for Twilight a little bit?"

"Enjoying it? Ha! No way!"

"Bunga, have you forgotten the last time others came to you for advice. And you remember what happened when things nearly got out of hoof?"

“Kiara, please.” He insisted. “There is nothing to worry about. “The only things I'm doing by order of the princess are for the good of the summit."

“Right…” Kiara said deciding to walk aside to speak with the construction pony down below, all while hoping (not really) that Bunga is not getting too carried away. “…if you’ll excuse me.”

Spike looked on feeling the same way, so he moved to keep a close eye on him to make sure (he eventually will) he doesn’t let this all go to his head.

With all that is needed to be done, so now he is going to enjoy the perks of it. He got himself a massage, free treats, and even got a pony to paint a portrait of himself. Every time they asked him if he could, or if he could pay, he always replied with.

"By order of the princess."

"By order of the princess!"

"By order of the princess…!"

All the while Spike watched from the sidelines looking on like this is a repeat and exactly what he and Kiara had feared at first glance. Upon seeing that he is getting way to into riding high on the success and perks of Princess Twilight’s name he decided it was time to intervene by summoning someone he’ll listen to. Someone he’s known for quite a while.

In the ballroom, Bunga lounged in a chair, chewing on some grubs. "Princess life is good!"

“Sure looks like it.”

“I know, Kion…” He replied before jumping up from his seat suddenly startled when he realized just who he was talking to. “Kion!” He yelped upon seeing him, Kiara, and Spike all eyeing him with stern looks.

“Hi there.” Kion returned without changing his tone and expression towards his irresponsible friend.

“Oh, hey everyone…so nice that you all could come visit. You all look well, how are things coming along?” He asked all while trying to act innocent with the biggest and cheekiest grin he can muster.

“Going fine, aside from the glaring fact from what Spike told me is that you have been getting carried away with your advice towards other’s…again and that's not okay.”

“What me…” Bunga scoffed it off like it’s a wild statement. “…don’t be silly.”

“Then why have been suddenly greeted by two construction ponies impatiently waiting to do their job in preparation for the welcome reception later today under Twilight’s name?!” Kiara sternly asked not buying Bunga’s act.

“They actually went to you?!” Bunga asked sounding rather dumbfounded that happened.

“Yes, and I told them to go ahead and get it done while I figure out why they were delayed in the first place!” She firmly scolded before calming herself down so she can try to reason with him. “ Bunga…I know we told you and Spike to ensure Twilight is well-rested no matter what but now, we’re concerned that you might be abusing your relationship with Twilight."

"What are you talking about? I'm a great princess—I mean, Twilight's a great princess! And I've been working hard to help her! When two delegates had a falling out, I'm the one who fixed their friendship! I listened to that pony drone on about gems for forty-five minutes so Twilight wouldn't have to! I moved a polo match away from the tower so she could sleep! I'm a decision-making master!"

But judging by the looks on his friends' faces, they did not agree. Both Spike and Kiara were looking at him like they can’t trust him anymore because of the way he is acting. Even Kion is greatly disappointed with Bunga’s behavior. Disappointment on par with his grandfather Mufusa towards his son Simba disobeyed him when he was young, along with his father Simba towards his son Kion during the Savannah Summit and the formation of the Lion Guard, he really began to feel the regret and shame.

"Okay. So maybe I did get a little carried away in making decisions. I guess I just liked the fact that others were actually see that I was actually giving good advice compared to the time where I was giving nonsensical advice from that little quick fix gone wrong back then. I did have good intentions before I started riding high in being a princess, honest."

“I know.” Kion calmly replied with a smile. “You always pull through with good advice from time to time. It’s just a matter of taming your pride and ego so that you don’t run off with your head and knowing when to be honest when it really matters.”

“Yeah…” Bunga sheepishly replied in agreement. “…I guess.”

“On top of that, it’s just a matter of learning humility and trying not to think much of it, even when being praised endlessly.” Kiara added.

“I guess I could have done that too…” He again admitted before turning to Spike apologetically. “…before I decided not to listen to you.”

The little dragon smiled and shrugged in response like Bunga would when forgiving someone. “Hakuna Matata, Besides, it's not like anything really bad happened."

Right after the words left his mouth, the polo ponies hit the ball which then flew out, hitting the dragon-sneeze trees, causing them to tumble down like a line of dominoes and one landed on the water main, finally breaking it and releasing the large portion of water which aimed at one of the crystal glass windows of the ballroom.

The water flooded the entire room, wiping away the tables, banners, chairs, even the group of friends. This was witnessed by Princes Cadance who flew into the room, shocked to see what was happening. Kion, Bunga and Kiara quickly managed to climb up onto the stage, before they could all get soaked.

"This is unexpected!"

"What happened?!" Cadance urgently asked.

Bunga cringed sporting a nervous smile, "I guess we should have had that main fixed after all, huh?"

Both the prince and princess glared at Bunga before focusing their attention on the ongoing crisis at hoof as Kion quickly turned to the nearby alicorn princess. “Cadance, go shut off the main! I'll get rid of the water!"

Cadance flew out and Kion quickly flew down ready to try his work at his newly bestowed alicorn magic on this mess.

Remembering Twilight’s teachings, he calmly looked on as he kept his cool while processing his spell through the palms of his paws which caused the water to all turn into ice. Upon landing on the ice, he gave a simple tap on it with a single retracted claw. With that single touch, the ice all shattered and all turned into vaporized dust because of the heat from outside. Just like that all of the overflowing water was vanquished.

Outside, Cadance used her magic to shield off the broken main by forming crystalized stones around it. Thanks to her spell, the water stopped pouring allowing both her and Cadance to sigh in relief. Even though the room is still a mess, the water was all gone.

Spike walked up to the tall statue for the summit. "At least the statue's okay." Only for his nose to get all stuffy and eyes getting watery due to sniffing the petals of the dragon sneeze flowers. "Oh. Oh, no. Oh, no!" Predictably, he sneezed, causing the whole statue to break apart.

The group of friends gasped in horror at the sight of what was in front of them, the statue was broken, the room was a mess, in addition many delegates coming inside looking on in horror at what was in front of them too.

Fancy Pants gasped in shock. "Oh, my! What is the meaning of this?!"

This was not good and Bunga knew that this was all his fault. "Well, uh, you see, there was this polo game, and—"

Fancy Pants turned to the worker pony, "How could you let a water main burst on Canterlot's most important day?!"

"Hey, don't look at me! Princess Twilight said to stop working on it!"

Fancy Pants turned to the green Pegasus, "Well, what about these trees?! I ordered them trimmed to avoid just such a situation!"

"But the princess told me to stop, bub!"

"Why would the princess make such horrible decisions?! This all could have been prevented!"

Bunga stepped forward, trying to explain to everyone what really happened. "Please, everybody, listen! I'm so sorry all this happened!"

"What are you apologizing for?" Fancy Pants asked ignoring the honey badger and unknowingly causing the lion prince to fume in frustration. "These were Princess Twilight's awful decisions!"

"I'm about to blow my stack on Princess Twilight, I'll tell you that for nothin'! The Whinnyapolis delegate angrily said.

"Yeah, me too!", The Manehattan delegate angrily agreed.

"I'll not let Princess Twilight give Canterlot a bad name in the eyes of Equestria!" Fancy Pants furiously declared. "Come on, everypony! Let's go give her a piece of our minds!"

“ENOUGH!” Kion shouted with a fierce Roar being heard from outside with the Great Lions of the Pride Lands Past roaring alongside him as he moved to fly through the window and stood before everyone facing Bunga. “I understand that you’re all upset with what has happened throughout today, but ganging up someone isn’t the answer. Nor is violence.” He glared at the very few who were ready to storm with pitch forks in tow to which some of the Canterlot Guards whisked away with their magic along with a “Seriously?” glance in their direction. "Especially when said pony had nothing to do with anything that had happened today. Isn't that right, Bunga..." Kion then turned to his friend with a stern look to compel him to confess the truth.

"Kion’s right.” Bunga moved to do as he has been silently ordered to. “It wasn’t Twilight who made those decisions. It was…"

"Hey everypony!" Everyone turned towards the door, where a well-rested Twilight walked in, stretching her legs, "I haven't slept like that since I was filly---holy Celestia! What happened?!"

“That’s my question too.” Spike commented.

“Geez…” Twilight looked on completely bewildered with what had transpired while her back was turned. “…it looks like a twister hit this place.”

Fancy Pants approached the princess on behalf of the angry crowd. "Princess Twilight Sparkle, we demand an explanation for all of this! Where have you been while all of this was happening?"

"Good question." Twilight looked over at her friends expecting them to answer it themselves. "Guys, what's going on?"

Bunga stepped forward while laughing nervously and fiddling with his fingers. “Um... you needed to sleep. And both Kion and Kiara said you couldn't be disturbed. And there was this bird, and, well... long story short, I made a few decisions on your behalf."

"A few decisions?!" The alicorn angrily exclaimed, finding it a complete exaggeration with what she is seeing around her as she examined the broken statue in front of her.

"Well, maybe more than a few, but I had good intentions! Honest!" He took notice of all the glares he received, including Cadance. "Until I... didn't anymore. I'm sorry, Twilight. I guess I got a little carried away. It-it just felt so good to have folks caring about my opinions on such important stuff especially when it was for once good and useful advice for the most part. I guess I was just enjoying feeling like a princess."

Kion placed a paw over his shoulder, "Well, Bunga one of the most important things a princess or prince in this case can do is realize when he or she's made a mistake and fix it."

"How do I do that?"

"You could start with them." Twilight gestured to the rest of the upset and angry delegates, who are all expecting that apology for what he did and allowed to happen.

Bunga sighed knowing this is expected out of him. “Right…” He walked up to the stage and spoke to the crowd, who all listened to him attentively. "Uh, hi there, everybody. So I guess I owe you all a pretty big apology. It's funny. Here we are at a summit that brings together ponies, lions, and all other animals from two different worlds together, and all I could think about was myself. You all came here to celebrate the things that make each of our homes so unique and special." He sadly gazed down at a single sapphire jewel, looking down at his reflection in regret, "But instead of getting into the spirit of things like all of you, I used my friend's position to make myself feel good. I can't expect you all to forgive me but, I hope you can at least give me a chance to make it up to you."

The honey badger moved to start picking up all of the gems and tried to put the statue back together. It was a sweet and noble attempted gesture, but a little futile since it collapsed every time he tried to place it back together.

When Bunga reached for a ruby, it was suddenly surrounded by Fancy Pants golden aura. "The Canterlot ruby goes here, old sport."

The Whinnyapolis delegate placed their gem as well, "And ours goes here, don't'cha know?"

Every pony and Pride Lander gathered together to reconstruct the statue back to together. One by one, the gems were placed in their rightful spots, like connecting pieces of a puzzle together. It was truly a wondrous moment. Once all of the gems were placed, the statue now stood even brighter than it did before.

"Does this mean you forgive me?" Bunga asked hopefully.

The Manehattan delegate smiled while speaking on behalf of everyone here today. "Sure! You know, the whole idea of the statue is that when each of us plays our own small part, it adds up to somethin' great."

Princess Cadance addressed to the crowd, which gazed up at the stunning statue, "I hereby dedicate the Citizens of Harmony statue to everybody who plays their part, no matter how big or how small!"

The audience cheered for Bunga, not only for his courage to take responsibility for his mistakes, but for reminding them all what the Equestria summit was really all about. Kion moved to give him a friendly jab to his elbow while Kiara gave him a pat on the back for a job well done.

"Guess you're not such a bad princess after all, and that’s coming from me." The lioness remarked with a prideful smirk.

Bunga giggled in response when one of the delegates gave him a bouquet of flowers. Dragon sneeze flowers which unfortunately caused Spike's eyes started to water again.

"Aw, come on! Ah--ah--aaaaaaaahhhh-CHOO!!"

Thankfully, his fire didn't destroy the statue again, for Bunga had quickly tackled him and redirected his line of fire barely avoiding getting burned himself. Everyone looked on in shock as while the statue didn't fall and crumple apart again but one of the stained glass portraits of Simba’s triumph over Scar at the first Battle for Pride Rock was melted instead much to the king's shock when he just happened to peer his head outside when it happened.

“Oops, sorry.”

"My bad."

Both boys quickly and hastily apologized.

Simba sighed before calmly accepting their apology knowing that with magic it can be easily fixed. “Hakuna Matata, boys. Accidents happen.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Twilight commented with a smile before moving to repair it with her magic alongside Kion.

“So very true.” Kion said in agreement while joining his friend in flight as everyone looks on at the proud reminder of what served as the beginning of freedom from what could have been a death sentence to ever Pride Lander had Simba not returned to reclaim the throne.

And given that Scar's eyes are looking on ahead with magical visuals from the Outlands Volcano, he knows that day of the year is coming soon, and by that he is made it a personal vow that he'll be ready for them by then as he eyes someone with four blood red eyes walking inside the caldera ready to talk with him about it. He smirked deviously as he turned to speak to him face to face...

Author's Note

Okay, before I begin I should probably clear up a few things before getting into this episode.

For starters, no it is not Spike behind lets the power of being the princess’s friend go to his head. Considering that Spike is above that kind of foolish follies it doesn’t fit in with his character.

Next, as evident by the title it is none other than Bunga for obvious reasons and yes it is very similar to certain Bunga-centric episode back in Season 1 but with more genuine wisdom and helpful advice this time around.

And I’m pretty sure as you’ve read, valuable lessons were learned and it seems that it’ll stick this time around (hopefully) with the honey badger himself proving himself a worthy Princess (Prince more accurately)

Next up the Lion and Pony Guard have another big friendship challenge ahead of them as they try to seek to form a strong and powerful friendship with the yaks which is sure to be tough and messy so look forward to that as I try to get it out next week so stay tuned. And don’t be surprised if it doesn’t come out as originally scheduled because I am still having computer troubles so please bear with me for the time being okay…

Episode 15: Party Pooped

Episode 15:

Party Pooped

Between three pairs of eyes and three bodies locked on forward only giving each other passing glances as they all moved ahead. There is Fuli the Lion Guard’s Fastest charging on ahead on land, followed by the Pony Guard’s Fastest Rainbow Dash, with the leader of the Pony Guard just right behind them.

The three were all neck and neck as they all sped all across the Pride Lands borders along with the all borderlines of Ponyville all while everyone watches on and steering clear of them.

For the dummies that were placed in front of their paths, they all weren’t very lucky as they all literally tore through with their hooves and claws. And judging from the many obstacles the alicorn herself faced she sure is laying down a lot of harsh beatings on them and is being very aggressive again today.

From up high floating over the castle, Ono could spot the three tackle down the marathon length obstacle course all while wincing and cringing at every dummy Twilight literally tears apart.

“They’re coming this way now!” Ono alerted everyone waiting for them in front of the Castle for the past three hours.

“Everyone get into position!” Kion said to the rest of the team who all opened the double doors in preparation for their arrival since it serves as the finish line for the speedy trio.

Upon tearing down the last dummies, the three were neck and neck as they all rushed towards the open doors. Upon making one final sprint, they all crossed the finish line at the exact same time just when Pinkie took photos of them crossing the line together.

But knowing Twilight today, she really didn’t care about the outcome nor did she care of how well she did as they all quickly rushed to the showers so they can all get cleaned up all while taking their sports drinks waiting for them with them.

Fifteen minutes later, they all emerged from the showers all smelling fresh and much more relaxed than they were at the beginning of the today, and above all they were all hydrated and relaxed right now.

“Whew! What a workout!” Rainbow remarked as she wiped herself dry with her towel.

“Surely, that should have got it all out your system, Twilight.” Fuli added while shaking her fur dry.

“Hopefully.” Twilight replied still a little unsure even while she was able feel more calm and composed then earlier. ”As long as everything all goes well, we’re good.”

“Still feel things might go south today, huh?” Fuli asked sensing the uneasy reply she gave.

“Yep.”

“Still nervous?”

Spike seeing this quickly rushed to the kitchen to fetch a glass of water for her when she did not give her reply.

“Don’t worry, Twilight.” Kion moved to assure her otherwise. “Everything’s going to be all right.”

“Me?” Twilight brushed it aside showing little nerves in her reply. “No, no, of course not! There's no reason to be nervous. Nothing to worry about. Everything's gonna be fine!" But it was clear despite managing to steel her nerves they could tell that she is still quite visibly nervous deep down.

Pinkie Pie, being cheerful as always carried on like it was just meeting new friends as she moved to help ease her nerves. "Twilight, tell those butterflies in your tummy to beat it! Making new friends is always fun."

"They're probably just as nervous as you are." Fluttershy suggested.

"You've been planning this for weeks." Kyoga added in agreement. "And you know everything about these guys. I think we’ll be fine."

“That’s true.” Ono agreed. “Remember, Equestria and Yakyakistan haven't opened their borders for hundreds of moons. In fact, Yakyakistan is so far north of the Crystal Mountains, nopony's even been there! Imagine the look on Princess Celestia and King Simba's face when they find out we made friends with a yak prince!" However, saying all of that out loud didn’t help the egret himself as he was now started to get nervous himself. "I mean…heh, heh, heh, oh no….” He started hyperventilating briefly before shaking it off. “I’m calm! I'm calm…"

Rainbow couldn’t help but roll her eyes in response. “And here I was thinking that Twilight would be the one freaking out here.”

“She won’t!” Kion asserted before turning back to Twilight. “She has help with her who’s going to help her every step of the way.”

Just then Spike blew the trumpet as he stood by the doors, with a long red silk carpet rolling onto the castle floor. Hearing this means that the yaks have just arrived and are walking inside.

Two large harry creatures walked into the room, both with long beards and bangs, covering their eyes, wearing golden anklets, bracelets around their beards, sporting large majestic horns and golden earrings. They both stepped aside to make way for another yak standing behind them. Said yak’s fur was slightly lighter than his comrades, wearing a robe over his large back and golden accessories on his horns, along with a crown. Said yak is the leader of the yaks, Prince Rutherford.

"Ponies! Greetings, ponies!" He said, speaking in a powerful voice that was loud enough that anyone from the farthest point of the building can hear it.

Twilight and Kion both approached and bowed to him with the former greeting him first, "Prince Rutherford, your Majesty. On behalf of all of us, we welcome you to Equestria."

"Me honored." The yak prince said. "Yaks hope for great friendship between ponies and yaks. Friends for a thousand moons!" His voice loudly stated to the point Twilight had to make sure she still had her hearing.

"Allow me to introduce to you my best friend along with the Leader of the Lion Guard, Prince Kion who represents the Pride Lands, home to the African animals and culture."

Kion bowed to him similar to how he does to both Princesses Celestia and Luna. “Hello. On behalf of my father it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Prince Rutherford inspected the young lion cub as he leaned down to his eye level. "Yak thinks lion prince is young and cute for his age."

“Okay…” Kion said while still smiling albeit forcibly feeling half complimented yet somehow half-insulted. “…and thanks.” But none of the less, still a good start.

"You must be hungry after a long journey." Twilight said as Spike pushed forward a large table of assorted food, said food that yak’s like them eat, at least what they’ve heard. "We've prepared a banquet of traditional yak foods."

Prince Rutherford inspected the offering, but it was hard to tell whether he is pleased or not for his eyes covered. "If things not perfect, yaks get mad. Yaks always get mad when things not perfect!"

Ono gulped nervously, having hoped he had done his research alongside Twilight correctly, just when it seemed things will go smoothly.

Prince Rutherford sniffed what appeared to be some kind of rounded sampling sprinkled with green spices. He took a bite, chewed on it and then spit it right out in disgust. The ball went flying, hitting Ono right in the face, knocking him down to the ground like a big splat similar to a certain plankton.

"This no taste like yak food! Fake pony food make yaks mad!"

In a fit of rage, the yak prince tossed the table over with his horns and his fellow yaks joined in. The others watched in horror at the way there were all trashing the palace, literally tearing the palace room apart like it meant nothing to them.

Never before have they seen such a rampage. It was exactly like with the crocodiles but for very, very, petty reasons. It wasn’t simply just for selfishly trying to take over for what they felt was right, but more of a simple and unnecessary tantrum over food that just wasn’t up to their standards.

Twilight looking on very annoyed and disgusted with their behavior took action. She flew up into the air, unleashing her most powerful voice to command them to stop in their tracks.

“ENOUGH!” Twilight shouted with her Royal Canterlot Voice.

The yaks, all looked on at the stern and fierce scowl the alicorn princess was giving them having ceased their rampage as all eyes were focused on her.

“Okay. So the food wasn’t exactly quite up to your standards, believe me I get it and we're sorry for that, but trashing this castle which for the record happens to be mine? That was unacceptable and I demand that you all cease this behavior this instant!”

For a moment, everyone looked on in awed and scared silence. They have no idea what is going to happen next. Thankfully, the yaks bowed with respect to her as they all obeyed to her demands.

“Very well, Princess…but yaks will not go easy again should yaks not like what we see next time."

“Understandable, but yaks will behave themselves as much as ponies do.” Twilight calmly and firmly returned to make it clear that what she is saying to them is not a request.

The three yaks nodded in agreement before they all moved to exit her palace.

Ono spoke up once the yaks had left. "Is now a good time to be concerned about their visit.” Just after he peeled himself off of the wall he got hit on the head by another piece of splattered food that made it’s way to the ceiling.

The group got to work, cleaning up the mess the yaks had made. Fluttershy, Ono, and Rainbow Dash fixed the tapestries and the curtains while Applejack and Beshte hammered the broken rails of the indoor balconies, Fuli and Kion helped Spike sweep the broken shards while Fuli and Rarity tried to glue the broken vases together.

"Them yaks sure have a funny way of sayin' "howdy." Applejack said while Beshte held the nail in place so she can hammer it in.

"They're different, that's all." Rarity said while she glued the vase back together and placed it back on the pedestal, "Very… different."

"I think they broke my record for most stuff broken in under a minute." Rainbow Dash added. "I mean, they even broke the trophy." She showed them the broken trophy, which literally is now in pieces on her hoof.

"Good thing Twilight was able to stay calm and get them to be calm." Bunga happily added before quickly adding upon the looks he was getting. “For now.”

“Amazingly…” Kion commented in agreement yet bewildered that actually happened. “…it actually is.” He turned to her as she is inspecting the work in progress. “…how did you do it?”

Twilight just looked on without any emotion before turning back to her friend. “Let’s just say I had good practice in dealing with these kinds of situations lately.”

Having an idea of what she is talking about, he simply nodded. “Enough said.“

“Right.” She smiled with a more upbeat attitude as she explained why. “And I’m not going to worry over one little rampage since we have the whole day to prove to the yaks that our friendship is worth seeking. So…” She held up a huge book with her magic. “…who read the seven-volume cross-indexed history of Yakyakistan I recommended?"

Most the group aside from a few cringed, unable to look her in the eye and answer the question honestly.

"Kyoga? Did you read it?"

“Of course…” Though she couldn’t help but admit finding the book a little too long and boring for her taste. “…though I may have…skimmed it a bit."

The only one who had the guts to reply without any hint of nervousness was Pinkie Pie, who hopped forward with excitement. "I did, I did! Did you know they live so far north of the Crystal Empire that it's cold all the time? Yaks have yak fur to keep them warm." She demonstrated this by wrapping her head in Fluttershy's mane.

“Of course they do.” Ono replied like it’s nothing new to him. “Common knowledge really.”

Just then she suddenly appeared from underneath Applejack's hat, also startling the country pony. "I know! Yaks are so cool!"

In the process, she accidentally bumped into Beshte who bumped into the walls causing the vase Rarity had just glued together to tumble and crash to the ground.

“Oops! Sorry, Rarity!”

“Not your fault darling.” She sighed heavily yet irritably with her anger more focused on Pinkie than Beshte.

“Of course!” Kion exclaimed upon getting an idea. “Pinkie Pie knows all there is to know about the yaks, she can show them around town.”

“Great idea, Kion!” Beshte smiled already liking the idea.

“And so can Ono.” Kion added before the egret can protest his decision before turning back to Pinkie trying to make sure she is okay with this. “Pinkie…I know you have to plan the friendship party too, but it would really help make them feel welcome. Can you do that?"

"Don't worry. They'll be in good hooves with me."

Twilight floated over to her and in front of everyone for further instructions. “Remember, we want to make sure Equestria feels like home. That means doing everything we can to make this place feel like Yakyakistan."

"No problem!" Pinkie saluted with great confidence.

"Good. Let's get out there and make some new friends!"

First on the agenda was to find the perfect place for the yaks to sleep in. Applejack, Ono, Beshte, Bunga and Pinkie Pie took them to Sweet Apple Acres, where they would sleep in the barn.

Applejack removed her hat to the yaks in respect. "We know y'all are noble warriors who avoid the so-called finer things, so me and my family would be honored if you rested here in the barn during your visit."

Pinkie Pie hopped towards three beds, made out entirely out of hay with a pillow on each one, "Applejack and I made hay beds like you're used to back in Yakyakistan."

Prince Rutherford examined the barn and the beds before speaking up of his thoughts. "Hmm…This perfect."

"Yeah it is! You can snooze here all afternoon," Bunga offered. "'And that’s a good thing cause you're gonna need a lot of energy for our party tonight!"

Applejack sighed in relief. "That wasn't so hard." She whispered to her friend thinking things are all good now. But unfortunately, she had spoken too soon when the yak prince sniffed out the thread with what he said next.

"Wait!" Prince Rutherford licked the hay bed and immediately lost his temper again. "This not yak hay!"

“Hapana!”

Beshte quickly moved to calmly explain why. "Well, we didn't have actual hay from Yakyakistan, but we tried our best to make it just like yours." All while both the nervous hippo and country pony both slowly backed away with the former leading Pinkie away by wrapping her hoof around her shoulder.

"Not perfect! Yaks destroy!"

"Wait!" Bunga called out to the yaks making them stop right where they are. "Remember what Princess Twilight said? You wouldn’t want to be frightened by her again right? Trust me, you don’t want to do that!"

The three yaks looked at one another before their prince spoke. "Very well…”

The four friends sighed in relief…

"Yaks smash hay beds!"

The three yaks roared and grunted in anger as they started jumping up and down in the hay beds, destroying them. The four friends all galloped and ran away as the three rampaged once again.

“So much for near-identical substitutions!” Ono exclaimed before flying off to report this to both Kion and Twilight.

"Pinkie Pie, what do we do?!"

Pinkie pondered for a moment before coming up with another idea.

Out in the woods, Pinkie had Fluttershy present an animal show for the yaks. The pink pony stood before some curtains hung on the trees with Ono and Fuli there to assist her.

"And now, for your entertainment pleasure... Presenting animals, Yakyakistan style!"

The curtain opened with all of Fluttershy's adorable animals all appearing all wearing yak antlers. In addition, Fluttershy had a blanket set up for the yaks with tea and cookies.

"Animals cute." Prince Rutherford complimented already liking what he saw so far.

Fluttershy wiped her forehead in relief. "Oh. Thank goodness."

However, one of the ducklings tumbled and his yak horn fell right off, peeving the yak prince off once again.

"Wait. These antlers lie! These not Yakyakistani animals! Yaks smash!"

"Wait! Stop!" Ono appeared in front of them again.

"Princess Twilight will be here if she hears about this." Fuli sternly reminded.

Once again, the yaks all backed off. "All right then."

Ono, Fluttershy, and Fuli all sighed in relief…

"Yaks smash picnic!"

Fluttershy quickly flew her animals to safety up onto the tree while the yaks destroyed the picnic all while the others were scared out of their minds.

“Geez, I’ve heard of tough crowds, but not tough and rude rolled into one.” Fuli remarked with disgust at their behavior.

Pinkie Pie appeared from the branches looking increasingly worried. "Okay, well...There's still other things we can do. I think."

“Better hope so, before both Kion and Twilight get involved in this.” Ono advised before moving to report this to both the prince and princess again. “Otherwise things are going to get really ugly.”

“You think, Ono?!” Fuli asked glancing in his direction just before he could fly off.

“Nope! Definitely!”

Pinkie took the yaks to Rarity's dress shop where she presented them a stunning sparkly blue fabric she had just bought with Kyoga there to assist them.

"Yes! These are some of my favorite materials. Very rare, imported from the Crystal Empire to match your northern sensibilities. I hope you'll find them—" The unicorn was both shocked and disgusted by the yaks upon finding that they are literally eating her fabric. "…delicious."

Of course, the yaks were not pleased in the slightest by the taste.

"This no taste like yak fabric! Yaks destroy!"

"Hold it!" Kyoga sternly glared at them while showing them a magical visual of Twilight to non-verbally remind them of what would happen if she found out about it.

"Fine. Fine..."

Rarity sighed in relief, but Pinkie knew what was coming next when Kyoga moved to throw up a protective magic shield around them.

"Wait for it…" Pinkie warned when…

"Yaks destroy fabrics!"

They started taking all of the imported new fabric and started stomping and ripping at it, leaving the rest of the store intact but knocking down manikins around the room, still causing mayhem inside.

Pinkie Pie still tried to remain positive but it was getting harder with every attempt to appease them failing and failing every single time. "Everything's gonna be fine. You'll just... make it up to them. Somehow."

Next up, Pinkie Pie enlisted both Rainbow Dash and Ono’s help in manipulating the weather, so the yaks could feel more at home.

"Listen up! Tell your faces to hold onto their frowns, 'cause they're about to get turned upside-down!"

"Hold your frown, face!" Prince Rutherford, sternly replied with a matching expression with his eyes temporality shown and sharp ready to spot any more small imperfect details to rage upon.

Ono nervously gulped while briefly biting the feathers of his wings before floating to Rainbow’s side.

“Hit it, Ono, Rainbow Dash!"

Acting on their cue both Ono and Rainbow pushed a gigantic cloud over the yaks and kicked it at the same time, causing a large blanket of snow to fall all over them.

"Just like Yakyakistan snow, right?" Pinkie Pie asked with her trademark smile. "Because snow is snow, no matter where it comes from."

She gave the two fliers a high-five as thanks for their help. But, unfortunately it didn’t last long when Prince Rutherford got a taste of the snow and once again got mad.

"This not yak snow!"

The yaks roared and grunted, hitting the snow repeatedly. On the bright side this time around Pinkie didn’t need to warn them of Princess Twilight since the snow is only thing they are raging on. Not that it did them any good anyways.

"Seriously?!" Pinkie Pie planted her face into the snow, "…Seriously?"

“Hapana…” Ono grunted as he repeatedly slammed his face into the snow clearly dismayed that nothing has gone right for them today. “…why?! Why?! WHY?!”

Back at the palace, the whole team was gathered together where the Lion and Pony Guard all sat on their specifically-marked thrones.

Kion spoke first, "So, how's it going so far?"

Applejack cringed as she responded unconvincingly. "Y'know… it's goin' okay."

“They sure are something!” Bunga said with forced thumbs up following Applejack’s example

"Satisfactory, I'd say." Rarity added in agreement.

"Could be better." Rainbow Dash commented next.

“Couldn’t have said it any better.” Fuli said in agreement.

"It's not very good." Fluttershy honestly commented while hiding her mane in her face.

“Can’t say it is.” Beshte replied in agreement with her.

“Are you all kidding me?!” Ono exclaimed rather exasperated at their lack of honesty in the matter after all witnessed what had just happened earlier.

"It's a disaster!" Pinkie exclaimed in a panic.

Kyoga spoke next. “Everytime we try to appease the yaks there always is something that sets them off and resort to trashing the place around them. Very little and petty things I might add. They’re lucky that no one was around to get hurt but I don’t know how much more it is worth putting up with!”

Now Kion was starting to feel on edge. “Okay…okay. No problem, we can still fix this.” She then turned to the party pony. “Pinkie Pie, tonight's Yakyakistan theme party is more important than ever! You'll make them forget all about this afternoon, right?" Everyone's eyes looked at Pinkie Pie, each one both hopeful but also fearful. But Pinkie was also on edge too since her left eye is now twitching. "Because if it's not perfect, they're gonna smash everything! And if I’m not sure how much more smashing I can take before Twilight goes all crazy on them like she did with Kiburi!” He was now sweating hoping that the alicorn princess isn’t getting offended in the slightest. “If you know what I mean?”

The others looked at her worryingly as she still looks on calm and collected about the whole thing. “Yes, but that’s not going to happen…” Everyone looks on still anxious feeling it is another more terrifying way for her bomb to go off with no telling when. As she took in her deep breathing exercise the others backed away slowly in case she really does explode. “…we still have time to make this right.”

“Or at least time to avoid being in range for another ugly blood brawl.” Ono commented now sweating and biting his feathers again. He then turned to Pinkie practically begging of her to come up with a solution that’ll work. “Please tell us you have a way to avoid that!”

Pinkie Pie gave a reassuring smile as she replied. “I definitely will! I think. Maybe…?"

“Of course you will!” Bunga said with great confidence while patting her on the back somewhat roughly. “You're the best party planner in all of Equestria and the Pride Lands. If anyone can show them a good time it’s you!"

"You can do it!" Fluttershy said with a smile.

"We have absolute confidence in your abilities, Pinkie Pie." Rarity said, also smiling in agreement.

With so much support and eyes looking right at her, there is so much pressure on her plate right now, now she is not sure if she can take it.

"It's going to be my most happy-tacular party ever! I hope!" The pony smiled widely at her friends, but her eyes shifted around nervously unable to stay in place.

"Why are your eyes darting around like that?" Ono asked.

Pinkie briefly stopped her shifty eyed antics, still keeping up her forced smile to look happy for their sake. "It's what I do when I'm not nervous! Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!" she laughed hysterically.

Twilight upon sensing the stress her friend is now having moved to try to help ease her tensions. “Pinkie…are you sure you’re up for this? It’s okay to be…”

"Of course I am! Gotta go!"

Pinkie quickly rushed right out of the room, leaving the rest of the group behind, looking concerned and worried for their friend.

Back in her room, Pinkie was laying on her sofa, hyperventilating. This was now all too much for her. Parties use to be fun, but now it has become an event where the fate of two potential friendships depended on it. She’s really having a difficult time figuring out how to appease them without peeving the yaks off and getting her friend Twilight to go off the deep end again.

"Gummy, what am I gonna do? I had all this amazing stuff planned for the party, but they're gonna hate it!"

While she spoke, Gummy blankly stared out the window at a fly buzzing around, before sticking his tongue to try and catch it for lunch. Pinkie moved to slide down from her sofa before jumping back up.

"There's no way to make Equestria feel like Yakyakistan. They're just too sensitive! Even Fluttershy made them mad! Fluttershy!"

She walked on over to the window next to Gummy, where she saw both Twilight and Kion giving the yaks a tour.

"Oh… I need a new idea, and I need it now. How am I supposed to make this party feel like Yakyakistan without actually going there and bringing something back?!"

Gummy simply stood there before sticking out his tongue at Pinkie's nose, which was stuck there for a few seconds. Then, suddenly, Pinkie Pie inhaled a large gasp as she suddenly adopted a more upbeat attitude as she got a new idea in her head.

"Gummy, you're a genius." She kissed her littler gator's head before zipping away with a new idea in play and ready to act fast upon it.

"And this is Sugarcube Corner." Twilight showed the yaks the candy styled bakery, "They're working hard to make your traditional Yakyakistan cake."

"Vanilla extract balance very tricky." said Prince Rutherford, and his yaks both nodded and muttered in agreement.

Kion looked on between both the yaks and Twilight and couldn’t help but feel his heart his racing due to his own nervousness. He then decided to politely excuse themselves from the room. “Uh, do you mind, um, waiting here for one moment?" Using his magic, he teleported them both to Pinkie's room. "Pinkie, we need to talk. I know you're busy with the party and all but…." They both saw that said pony is not even in the same room as them.

"Pinkie?"

"Pinkie?" Twilight called out for her. "Where are you?” She turned to Kion. “Where did she go?!”

“I don’t know!” Kion returned now starting to lose his cool more and more himself. He ended up frantically scratching the wood on the floor with his claws now trying to keep himself from exploding just when the rest of the Guard arrived.

"Did you find her?" Twilight asked.

Fluttershy shook her head as she is the first to answer. "Angel and I searched the forest, but…"

"Aerial recon turned up nothing either." Rainbow Dash added.

“I checked every corner of Equestria and the Pride Lands, no sign of her.” Ono also added.

“I know that for a fact!” Bunga agreed while munching on grubs. “It’s true I was there!” He quickly stated defensively.

"I searched the farm inside and out." Applejack reported. "No Pinkie Pie. But I did find a set of Granny Smith's dentures under the house, so... not a complete loss."

“Lucky you…” Fuli sarcastically remarked before moving to give said dentures that she found when they bit her tail under the bed. “Ow…” She groaned when Applejack reclaimed them.

“Sorry there partner.” She sheepishly said as she winced at the poor cheetah’s bite marks on her sensitive bones.

"She's simply vanished!" Rarity exclaimed upon realizing what has happened.

"But the party! It's all we have left! What are we gonna do?!" Kion asked now at the end of her rope along with everyone in the room.

The only one not losing it is Twilight who moved to try to get everyone to keep it together. “For starters, we’re going to find out what happened to Pinkie Pie.”

“And just where do you think she might be, huh?” Ono inquired rather agitated. “Ready to rain on our parade from the ceiling?” Right on cue, Gummy landed on Twilight's head. “With Gummy?” He looked around the whole room before telling everyone. “I didn’t mean him, literally!”

Gummy stuck out his tongue, where he had a note attached to it to which Twilight pulled so she can read it. "Don't worry. I'll be back in time for the party. Love, Pinkie Pie."

"Does it say where she was going?" Kion asked. Unfortunately for him, Twilight shook her head.

Twilight placed Gummy back down and addressed to the others, "If Pinkie Pie says she'll be back in time for the party, she'll be back. We have to trust her. Right?"

"Right! No reason to freak out!" Kion was still clawing the floor anxiously with the idea of another yak rampage and Twilight unleashing her dark powers on them very fresh in his mind.

“Easy…” She gently urged him to stop.

"Twilight’s right!” Applejack agreed. “When it comes to parties, I think she knows what she's doin'."

“Has never disappointed a single pony and Pride Lander in her life.” Beshte added in agreement.

Kion retracted his claws as he moved to calm himself down. "You're right, Beshte. Let's just focus on keeping the yaks happy 'til she comes back."

“Yeah!” Bunga agreed. "It'll be a piece o' cake."

The prince and princess's eyes widened in realization just after he said that. "The cake!"

Bunga laughed nervously at the glaring eyes in his direction, particularly Fuli, before accepting what’s coming to him. “All right let’s have it.” Without hesitation, Fuli swiftly slapped him on the back of the head for his big mouth who likewise winced in pain when it happened.

“Are you ever going to learn, Bunga?”

“Maybe, maybe not.” He honestly replied given that learning his lesson is always a constant struggle, especially when he barely puts effort into it.

Mrs. Cake cut off a large piece of the cake with white frosting she had prepared for the yaks. Even she was terrified of what would happen if it was not to their liking. "One bite, and you'll be transported right back to Yakyakistan." She laughed nervously as she offered the prince his slice. "I hope."

Twilight and Kion magically appeared beside her as they hoped they got it right this time as the yak prince opened his mouth and ate the piece in one single bite. He chewed on it for a moment before shouting at them.

"Ponies too heavy on vanilla extract! Yaks smash!"

“Oh no you don’t!” Twilight firmly stated upon appearing right in front of them. “This is the Cake's home, you can't smash this place!”

The yaks were left intimidated once more before their prince found his inner voice to use against her. "Yaks been patient with you all day! Yaks now tired of listening to you!”

Twilight however wasn’t about to take that lying down as she kept herself right in the prince’s face. “Well you better keep on listening, or else you will answer to me! Is that understood?!”

“Fine, yaks will back off, this time, or else yaks declare war on ponies!”

The yaks left, but not without taking the cake as they exited the bakery, and proceeded to smash and trash it once they were outside of the building thus scaring away the nearby ponies.

Both the prince and princesses winced and groaned at the sight.

“We've never needed a party so badly." Kion remarked as he feels like he is going to pass out from the stress of all this.

No matter what they did to try to earn their friendship, they find some way to offend them for the slightest reasons they could think of.

Meanwhile…

"Next stop, Crystal Empire!" The conductor said to the passengers of the train Pinkie Pie was currently on. The pink pony was on a personal solo quest to put a patch on this. She looked out into the window as the scenery bypassed in front of her. Her eyes looked on serious and focused as she gave herself her own speech.

"And so my quest begins. I know what you're thinking. "Why go to Yakyakistan alone, Pinkie Pie?" Because I'm the party planner. This burden falls on my rump and my rump alone." She made her point by rubbing her rump, "If I want a great party, I gotta climb the mountains north of the Crystal Empire, find Yakyakistan, and come back with something authentic!… Know what I mean?"

She said the last part with a smile at her current traveling companion whom she encountered on the train ride.

"I totally get it! And the best part about is that I completely understood every word of it!”

"I still can't believe I ran into you Makini."

"I know, and on the same day I was heading for a royal meeting with Princess Cadance at the Crystal Empire. Who would have thought that would happen?" She pulled out some dirt and ashes from one of her gourds before showing it to Pinkie. "I’m headed on over there to work on an experiment with the princess. Apparently from what I’ve heard that with alicorn magic it can used to identify old bodies. Not just old bodies, but dead bodies, like fossils and old dinosaurs. I mean it would be crazy if this happened to be dead ponies from who knows when. But I still so, so, excited to work on this experiment with her!”

She nearly dropped her findings and her staff when the train came to an abrupt and sudden stop. Pinkie nearly fell off of her seat before looking out the window.

Instead of the Crystal Empire like they expected, they were now in the desert, Appleloosa.

“Uh…” Makini scratched her head after carefully putting the dirt and ashes away. "Did we go the wrong way?" The train doors opened as she stepped out and looked around her surroundings. "Where's all the snow?” She squatted down and examined the dirt. "Is this some kind of magical sand-colored snow." She stuck his tongue out to lick the substance…only to spit it out immediately. "Nope. It's sand. Definitely sand."

Pinkie Pie rushed to the conductor to ask. “What’s going on here?”

"Dodge City. End of the line, I'm afraid. All trains had to stop. Sheep decided to sit on the tracks." He pointed to said sheep on the tracks.

Pinkie Pie waved her hoof into the air, shouting angrily. "Curse you, sheep!" She shouted…right switching back into being happy. "Thanks for you help, conductor. Come on Makini, let's find another way to get to the Empire." She hopped along with Makini running after her.

“So since the train ride’s out, how are we going to get to the Crystal Empire now?”

Pinkie suddenly stopped when the door to an outhouse busted open right in her face where a certain and familiar female earth pony she once met before emerged from it.

"Cherry Jubilee!"

"Pinkie Pie?! I reckoned I eyeballed you crossin' my way right now." She happily greeted up being her up to her hooves

"It's great to see you! This is my friend, Makini."

Makini gasped in delight. “I know you! You’re the pony who’s well-known for her wonderful cherries from Cherry Hill Ranch!”

“That’s right! The one and only! And I’m sure your friend told you of the time she and her friends were here when Applejack came to work here briefly.”

“She sure did! And wow, that was sure a great story to tell!”

“Yeah it was.” Pinkie agreed before moving to get things on track. “So anyways, how are you? You look amazing! I need help." She said the last part rather desperately.

"I'm dandy as a daffodil and fit as a floribunda. What can I do ya for?"

"Have you heard of Yakyakistan? Do you have any idea how we can get there?"

Luckily they had good fortune on their side. "Mark your calendar, missy, 'cause this right here's your lucky day! I'm headin' north to the Crystal Empire myself for a delivery."

Cherry lead the two to her horse drawn carriage, which was filled with barrels and buckets of cherries, and four strong stallions were pulling the carriage. She then said this as she jumped onto the drivers seat.

"I ought to warn you though – me and the boys are powerful tired 'cause we was up all night countin' cherries." She noticed one of the boys taking a nap on the job. "Hey there! Wake up!"

"Counting cherries?" Pinkie asked as she and Makini got onto the carriage. "How many?"

"Four hundred and seventeen thousand, two hundred and thirty-four." She yanked into the reins, commanding the boys to gallop along. "Yee-haw!"

The ponies galloped ahead on and across the desert planes. Makini moved to wave her arms up into the air like she is riding a roller-coaster back in Ponyville, while Pinkie Pie continued to monologue about her journey.

"And so my quest resumes. As I stare across the endless desert, I tell myself I will soon triumphantly enter the homeland of our noble guests and return with a prize to make the best party they've ever seen… Know what I mean? Cherry?" When she turned to her driver when she asked the last question, she suddenly noticed that Cherry had dozed off….and so did her stallions…while they were still running.

When Makini opened her eyes her cheerful joy turned into sudden terror. “Whoa! Ravine!” Said ravine is large and only a few feet away from them. “Pinkie! Quick! Wake them up!” She moved to try to hit the brakes on their ride before they all are in for a fatal plunge in the abyss.

Pinkie tried using an alarm clock, throwing a bucket of water at them, even banging on the said bucket, but none of them got their attention.

"Wake up! Wake up!"

Just when it seemed they were all about to go under, Pinkie quickly moved to pull on the reins, which thankfully woke the stallions up one by one in time.

"Stooooop!" Pinkie cried out, and the ponies all came to a screeching halt at the very tip of the ravine. The impact caused the ponies to flip over and land onto the carriage, which woke Cherry Jubilee when it happened.

"Huh?! Whoa. I was dreamin' about a ravine." She looked down and screamed in terror when she realized what was in front of them. "Ravine!"

"That's what I said." Pinkie stated…right before the edge gave way and the carriage fell, along with the ponies and mandrill.

“Hang on!” Makini cried out while clinging onto her staff with full determination not lose this one.

Elsewhere in order to keep the yaks distracted for a bit longer, the Lion and Pony Guards had Spike play a private concert for them. He played a large wooden piano for them on a stage. The yaks cried at the beautiful melody, wiping away their tears and blowing their noses with tissues.

"Music beautiful." Prince Rutherford cried tears of joy. "Much soul." At least the yaks have appreciation for classic music.

Kion wiped away the sweat from her forehead, and Twilight sighed in relief. So far so good.

Once Spike finished playing, he took a bow. "When Twilight told me to stall— I-I mean, entertain you, I thought there's no way I could—"

Suddenly, the piano started to play…all by itself. This took the yaks by surprise once they opened the back of the piano, only to find that it was self-playing. The dragon had tricked them.

"Piano play itself?! Music a lie!"

Kion angrily turned to Spike upon this revelation. "You got a fake piano?!"

"I was desperate!” He apologetically explained. “You know I can't play when I'm nervous!"

The yaks leaped into the air, destroying the self-playing piano. Spike was flung into the air, only to be caught by Twilight. Once the dust cleared, the piano was left crumbled into small splinter sized pieces.

"We demand party! Party now or yaks no friends!"

"No! Just a little longer!" Kion pleaded.

"No more longer! Prince and Princess out of time! We leave now! Yak go to train, return with more yaks! We declare war!"

The three friends gasped in horror at this declaration.

“You really want to go that way?!” Twilight exclaimed just barely keeping her patience with them. “Because in case if I hadn’t made myself clear, challenging me is a very, very, bad, idea!”

“Pony princess dare challenge the prince of Yakyakistan?!” He angrily roared in the princesses face as he prepared to march on over to her ready to fight her. “Yaks now ready to settle this right now!”

“NO!” Kion quickly flew over and got in between them just when the alicorn princess was ready to leap into the fight. With deep grunts and growls of anger boiling over, dark clouds formed around him from behind.

Realizing what is happening, Twilight quickly swooped in to grab Spike while forming a protective magical barrier around themselves along with the yak as Kion unleashed the dark Roar of the Elders on them.

The Roar unleashed another powerful gust of winds that would have sent everyone flying away had Twilight not put up her protective shield. It’s also a good thing she has become more powerful than the last time because otherwise she would be out cold by now. It created a brief storm and crater crack in the middle of the ground they were standing on along with lightning striking the nearby stage and chairs.

After Kion was done roaring in a rage, he angrily marched up to the now terrified yaks with a good mind to chew them out for their behavior.

“You all better understand one thing! You do NOT threaten my friends and family especially after we’ve been nothing but try to be as friendly as the next nice guy and girl in line! We’ve put with your constant rampaging and your attitude! And now I’ve had it! If you lay so much as a single hoof on Twilight or anyone I know, you will answer to me.” He stated with gritted teeth and bared claws. “Do I make myself clear!” After a few seconds with no response. “ANSWER!”

“Yes…” The yak prince complied while whimpering. “Yaks no declare war!”

He led the other yaks on away from the scene completely terrified out of their minds of what had just happened.

After Kion had calmed himself down, he suddenly looks on in horror with what he just did with the Roar along with witnessing both Twilight and Spike’s stunned shock at what he just did. A young lion cub, literally unleashed with the most terrifying roars and threats they have ever heard. They knew that Kion would never go through with it unless he had no choice, but he sure would have made good on it if he wanted too.

“Twilight…” Kion stammered as he struggled to explain himself. “I…I didn’t…I’m sorry I…” Unable to explain himself and still mortified with what he just did, he flew off ahead in complete shame.

Kion flew around Ponyville frantically trying to find Pinkie Pie. Twilight flew after her and up beside her. Deep down, Twilight was impressed with how well he’s been getting the hang of his new alicorn powers. A great turnaround from the day he ended up losing control over teleporting.

“Kion!” She called out to him upon catching up to her. “Where are you going?”

"Trying to find Pinkie Pie! Because of me the yaks are not going to seek out our friendship!"

“But if you hadn’t did what you did, then the yaks would on their way preparing for war against us. You knocked sense into them.”

"Yeah, but I also drove them away. I let my anger get to me, again. I even lost control of the Roar, again."

"There was nothing else you could have done that would have made it better. It was either they’re weren’t going to be friends with us or them risking pursing a one-sided war against us. Though admittedly, we all did screw this up. Maybe if the yaks had learned to be more patient and we learned to be ourselves in pleasing them then none of this would have happened."

Before Kion could even bother to counter-respond he ended up coming across some of the Guard covered in paint, balloons and confetti upon arriving at Sugarcube Corner. "No Pinkie Pie? What's this?!"

Applejack laughed nervously while she tried to paint a banner with her hooves, "Heh-heh. We panicked and tried to plan our own party."

Rainbow Dash rolled down from the roof, wrapped in party paper. "It's sort of panic-themed."

Now Kion was feeling more disheartened with himself more than ever. "The yaks are going home! This is awful! I wanted to surprise Princess Celestia and my dad. Now the only surprise is that I may have just permanently ruined any chance of creating a friendship with them."

Elsewhere, Pinkie Pie bravely walked over the cold snow as the winds bellowed blowing her mane, all while continuing to rapid-fire monologue her most recent adventures.

"There we were, face-to-face with Falling Pony Ravine. Down, down, down! And then, suddenly...Pow! We were rescued mid-air by the Wonderbolts!" Her tone changed to happy briefly. "And then they gave me a ride to Manehattan, I joined a traveling band, we played some shows here and there, got popular, almost made it big until creative differences tore us apart." She turned back to serious. “And that's when I knew I had to get back on with my journey to the Crystal Empire, the gateway to Yakyakistan! And so here I am. It was a major adventure that took most of the afternoon… Know what I mean?"

Standing beside her was Princess Cadance and Makini, with the latter clinging onto her staff and very thankful she didn’t lose it this time as the alicorn pointed to the hilltops.

"This is it. The northern boundary of the Crystal Empire. Beyond lies Yakyakistan. Nopony who's attempted this climb has ever returned. Are you sure you have to do this?"

"I do." Pinkie replied with great certainty looking up in the kingdom’s direction without fear.

"Very well. Good luck, Pinkie Pie."

"And don't forget to tell us all about!" Makini shouted after her. With it now just the two of them she turned to the princess waking beside her ready to discuss her findings. "So anyways, Princess Cadance, I got the dirt and ashes just like we talked about."

“Yes that’s right. You did talk about it…” She added with a somewhat forced smile. “…Non-stop during the last time we saw each other.”

“I know right! I’m sorry I can’t stop rambling I’m just so excited to conduct this experiment! I can’t wait to discover whose ashes these are.”

Cadance still kept smiling in a friendly manner knowing that she means well even if she does have a tendency to go on and on from time to time.

“Well I’m sure whoever or whatever it is, it is a discovery you’ll never forget.”

“Same here.”

Back in Ponyville, Kion looked out the window in Pinkie’s room just when Ono flew back inside having checked every inch of both kingdoms…again. “Any sign of her?”

“No, Kion. I looked everywhere! Still no sign of her!”

“But this doesn’t make sense. How could she be so late to the party? This isn't like her."

"I'm sure she's trying her best." Beshte said while trying his best to gently assure and calm his despairing friend.

"Pinkie Pie's tougher than she looks." Rainbow Dash added in agreement.

“She’s tougher than tough, stronger than strong, she is Pinkie Pie!” Bunga also said with great enthusiasm.

But Kion still continued to feel bad, "I know you're right, but... I wish she was here. I put too much pressure on her. I let everybody down. And the alicorns along with my mom and dad will be here any minute and see the damage I’ve created."

He was so upset with himself that he punched the floor and ended up triggering the trap door opener. Before anyone else who’s heard it could react, they all found themselves screaming as they all fell through the trap door when it opened inside a dark tunnel.

Meanwhile the snow had risen, and Pinkie Pie's body was buried to the point only the top of her mane was seen. She heard a roaring sound and jumped her body out of the snow. She looked up and saw a gigantic cave before her, no doubt where the roar had come from. In the dark opening, she saw a pair of red colored eyes.

"Hi! My name is Pinkie Pie! I'm looking for Yakyakistan. You know, faraway land, lots of yaks? Maybe you've heard of it?"

The roars became louder once the giant creature came out. It was some kind of fierce creature with no ears or tail, a coat of white fur, gray skin on the face and under the paws, red eyes, and a red marking on the top of his forehead. It roared right in Pinkie's face, causing her mane to turn messy briefly.

"Whoa-ho-ho! Slow down! I can't understand a word you're saying—"

The monster growled once more, cutting off a piece of her mane. But Pinkie remained unfazed. The creature raised its paws high, ready to lay down a fatal strike. Pinkie Pie leaped up into the air, got her legs moving like wheels before sprinting on ahead all while burying the creature completely with snow in the process. In addition she ended up kicking a big rock in his direction which landed on his head and knocked him unconscious.

Pinkie breathed in relief before galloping on ahead. Just then, she saw what she looking for up ahead.

"There it is! Yakyakistan!"

As she galloped she almost crashed into a young adorable little yak on his sled, only to accidentally hitch a ride with him. His helmet landed on her head and the two slid down the slope, up a cliff where the sled rested on the other side.

The main entrance to Yakyakistan with its kingdom was surrounded by a large wooden gate, where the little yak opened up, giving her permission to come inside. For Pinkie Pie it was a dream come true…

…only for the ice beneath the sled started to crack. The sled fell and began to slide all the way backwards…away from Yakyakistan.

"Noooooooooo…!"

Her cries echoed across the land as she slide pass the now conscious and confused monster's cave.

"Noooooooooo…!"

Both Cadance and Makini were startled when Pinkie Pie came sliding backwards down the slope and right by them. The ride continued on as the sled bypassed an equally surprised Cherry Jubilee in Manehathan, even the still stuck train back in Appleloosa. The ride carried on as her screams echoed.

"Noooooooooo…! "

Inside the black darkness around them…

“Is everyone okay?” Kion asked as his eyes darted around looking for the others.

"Yeah!”

“Uh-huh!”

“I’m okay!”

“Affirmative!”

During this, Bunga had time to comment. “Ow! I think I landed on someone’s head.”

“Yeah!” Fuli’s voice spoke up irritably. “My head!”

“Well, I guess that makes us even!” He said rather smugly. Unfortunately for Bunga, Fuli was within range to give him another well-deserved head slap. “Ow! Darn it!”

“Girls?”

“I can’t tell if my eyes are open or closed.” Fluttershy commented as she blinked.

Rainbow Dash tried to walk through the crowded room. "I think I can see a little bit." She said as she tried to navigate her surroundings, only to crash into something. "Gah! Nope."

Luckily for them Ono was able to find the light switch. “Found it!”

Once the lights came on, the Lion and Pony Guard now marveled all wide-eyed at their surroundings.

The room was brightly colored with all sorts of balloons, candies, plastic wrap, cakes, pastries, wallpapers, presents, party favors, plates, cups, confetti and streamers everywhere, shelves filled with party hats, and gifts. On the walls were notes and drafts as well as filling cabinets and a long yellow slide, which was how they got in.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

Never had they seen such a remarkable place that fits Pinkie Pie’s festive style.

Applejack opened the cabinet and found an entire assortment of files. "Look at these! Pinkie Pie's made files for everypony in town including everyone in the Pride Lands!"

Fluttershy joined in by singling out a single folder. "For all of us! With exactly what kind of parties we like."

"Pinkie Pie has a secret party-planning cave?!" Rainbow exclaimed very excited to see it herself. "How cool is this?!"

Fluttershy began reading the file she pulled out loud, "Twilight Sparkle likes vanilla ice cream, red balloons, dancing..."

"That's right!" Twilight smiled in agreement.

"But she's afraid of quesadillas."

Twilight looked on embarrassed as she eyed the others looking at her like it’s an absurd phobia. "No, I'm not! They're just so... cheesy." She shuddered on the last word.

Bunga was about say something when Ono quickly interrupted with. “Don’t say it!”

“But I want to say it!”

“Don’t…”

“But it’s such a cheesy thing to be afraid of.”

To emphasize how bad of a joke it was, a pie from out of nowhere was thrown at the same time a rim shot from out of nowhere was played.

“For once I am glad for that.” Ono commented feeling pleased with what he saw.

At the same time…

"..oooooooo! "

Now she found herself back in her room at Sugar Cube Corner in less than half the time it took to get her there. She planted her face on her bed in despair with that sudden turn of events.

"No! I'm all the way back where I started! Gummy, I was this close to helping Twilight befriend the yaks. Now I've just let everypony down."

She was just about ready to give up, until she heard muffled chatter coming from underneath the floorboards.

She went down the slide to her secret cave and saw that her friends have managed to discover it. She quickly hid behind the balloons being unable to face them all now, not after her most recent journey all for nothing.

"Looky here." Applejack told everyone while showing them a list, "It's notes for the party she wants to throw for her folks' fiftieth anniversary. But they ain't nearly that old! Huh. She's already plannin' their one-hundredth too. And their five-hundredth?"

"I had no idea she worked so hard on her parties." Twilight commented pretty impressed herself.

"She may be more organized than you, Twilight." Rainbow Dash said with a teasing nudge.

"Let's not get carried away."

"Suddenly it all makes sense." Kion commented with praise. "Throwing parties is her passion and really makes a living out of making everyone happy."

Pinkie Pie couldn't deny the tears rolling down her eyes right now upon hearing these heartfelt words of praise.

"I just wish Pinkie Pie were here so we could tell her how much we all appreciate her hard work." Rarity said sadly with her ears lowered to match her mood.

"Thank you!" Pinkie Pie released the balloons she was hiding behind to reveal herself having tears of joy falling from her eyes. "Thank you! I love you too! All of you!"

"You're back!" Twilight happily greeted when the pony hugged her and Kion.

“Where were you?” Kion asked.

"I tried to go to Yakyakistan so I could bring something back for my party. But at the last second, I made a mistake." Pinkie sighed sadly. "I worked harder on this party than any party ever. But I'm still just a big failure."

"Pinkie Pie, you're not a failure." Twilight assured otherwise.

"What matters is how hard you tried." Fluttershy added in agreement.

"Who else would've gone all across Equestria to plan one party?" Fuli asked seeing how much of a testament it is to her own commitment.

“Certainly not me.” Ono commented unable to dream of doing it alone.

Pinkie knew deep down that’s true and that was coming from best and true friends she’s ever had.

"You know... the trip was really hard. But everybody I met along the way was so helpful. I just wish the yaks could see how friendly and wonderful and great Equestria really is!" She gasped when she a light bulb shined behind her head which glared it's powerful and bright light across the room causing everyone else to shield their eyes from it.

“Oops, sorry!” Kyoga commented having just fixed and adjusted that light bulb hanging over the ceiling.

Never the less, Pinkie still spoke her mind with her newest idea. “I just got the best party idea ever!”

Twilight was optimistic, Kion however looked down in shame.

"But it’s too late. The yaks left on the last train."

"Um, no, they didn't." Pinkie assured as shed jumped up to the slide, "Trust me! There are a whole lot of sheep out there!" She happily slide backwards up the slide while the others just looked on with confusion.

Fluttershy then asked. "So, um, do we walk back up the slide or... or what?"

“Apparently.” Fuli said. “Like we have another choice?”

“How did she even…?” Ono felt the need ask how that is even possible.

“It’s Pinkie logic.” Twilight reminded. “You’re better off not questioning it.”

“Affirmative.”

At the Ponyville train stop, Prince Rutherford yelled at the conductor, "Yaks stuck here?! Why trains not work?!" He was even more surprised when he heard another voice coming from behind him.

"I never thought I'd say this, but... thank you, sheep!" If there was misplaced hurdles placed in front of her that could come in handy, now was the perfect time.

“Listen…” Twilight said as she moved to float over to them. “…I know we all got off to a really rocky start and for that I apologize on behalf of Equestria. But I promise you that if you hear us out once more, then I’m sure you’ll find friendship here is worth pursing.”

Pinkie Pie jumped up and down in agreement. "Yeah! And if you give us another chance, we can show you. Because, it's party time!"

And just like she promised everyone was in for the party of the lifetime. With balloons, game booths, and everything anyone could ask for at a party, it was all a big success. Even the yaks were all having a good time by the time, Simba, Nala, Celestia, and Luna came over having just getting acquainted with them.

"Wow, Pinkie. This came together quick, even for you." Twilight complimented her friend.

The party pony smiled in response. "What can I say? I'm good at what I do." With that, Pinkie walked over to the yak princes, "Prince Rutherford, every time we tried to make something in Equestria feel like Yakyakistan, we couldn't get it right. When I got back from my adventure, I realized something. We shouldn't try to make Equestria feel like your home. We should try to make you feel at home in Equestria."

“And by that we mean showing you why we love it here, so you'll love it too." Twilight chimed in.

Prince Rutherford looked all around him, removing the hair from his green eyes. He saw how much every pony and Pride Lander cared for one another. Even if the Lion and Pony Guard may have made a mistake in trying to please them, their hearts were still in the right place. And the yaks may have been wrong in smashing everything they didn't like just because it wasn’t perfect to the point of declaring an unnecessary war on them. And even with all that has happened they still gave them a chance to seek their friendship.

The prince wiped away his tears, happy tears being very moved by what Pinkie had did for them. "Ponies and Lions work hard to make yaks feel at home. Now yaks happy. And yaks no declare war."

Kion sighed in relief before realizing that both his parents were right behind them along with the alicorn sisters who all looked confused and alarmed to hear something along the lines that nearly happened.

“Long story. And before you even start, it was me not Twilight who exploded in the heat of the moment.”

Suddenly the yak prince suddenly pulled him in for a surprise hug along with Twilight. “Yaks glad that both prince and princess helped us see the error of our ways. And for that yaks apologize for the trouble yaks gave you.”

“Apology accepted.”

“If you let us go.”

Before doing so he had this to say.

"Ponies and yaks... friends?"

"For a thousand moons?" Pinkie asked hopefully.

"For a thousand moons!"

At the wonderful announcement, everybody cheered happily.

Celestia placed her hoof on Twilight's shoulder, "I am very impressed, princess. You did a wonderful job. You and your friends."

“And the same can be said for you to Kion, or more accurately, Prince.” Simba added equally proud of him. “You are learning well.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed while Twilight smiled proudly too. Deep down it seemed that brief rage breaking point to knock sense into them wasn’t such a bad thing after all.

"Pink pony…” The yak prince then said after letting both the prince and princess go. “...You understand yaks now."

"Aww, come here, you!" Pinkie Pie hugged the prince's large furry body, but then stopped when he didn't hug back. Only to find herself pulled in for a tight hug with the pink pony’s eyes herself nearly bulging out for once.

"Wow! Too strong! Okay, okay, okay!"

All while the festivities were going on, they were of course being watched by the careful eyes of Scar from the outskirts of Equestria. After having seen enough, he moved to focus his magic on spying on both Princess Cadance and Makini with the former using her magic to help the latter with her experiment. One that had a shocking discovery as evident by the widen eyes of the two as they both gasped in shock of what they had uncovered. And judging from the smirk on the lion’s face, he had just discovered some new and vital dirt that he can use against a certain foe of his…

Author's Note

In this episode, the Lion and Pony Guard face their toughest challenge yet when they try to broker a peace and friendship with the yaks who have a very difficult way of being pleased. Especially when they have a hair trigger in regards to anything not being perfect to the point even Fluttershy inadvertently peeved them off.

With the yaks doing a lot of trashing things here and there ,it was getting increasingly hard for them to keep it together with Pinkie resorting to some desperate measures to find out how to appease them.

And by that I mean a long harrowing trip to their home kingdom…which ended and came up short just when she got there. But even still she was able to pull through and managed to earn the yaks friendship and forgiveness who likewise returned it in kind.

Next up the Lion and Pony Guard return to action in the Pride Lands where they face a new enemy who happens to give them a run for their money in terms of fighting while protecting the elephant’s melon patch so should be interesting to see so look out for that later this month. So stay tuned…

Episode 16: The Bite of Kenge

Episode 16 :

The Bite of Kenge

“Come on, fur brains! Move it! Before the Lion Guard shows up.“ Janja ordered of his two companions when they managed to come across a great source of fruit.

“Right! Move it, melon!” When Cheezi pushed a melon across the field he ended up breaking it out spilling it’s precious juice and water. “Janja! This melon's got water inside it.”

“They all do, fur-brain. That's why we're takin' 'em.”

“Really? Ooh, good. I'm thirsty.” Chungu tried to open one only to end up playing around with like a chew toy.

Janja with a clearly annoyed expression simply slapped the melon out of his teeth causing it to crash and crack on Cheezi’s face with the juice and water spilling out from it and onto his nose. “Enough messin' around. Let's go!”

But unfortunately for them their leeway just got cut short when the Lion and Pony Guard quickly spotted them complete with a siren and spotlight courtesy of Pinkie Pie.

“Stop right there, Janja!”

“Those melons are for the elephants!”

Both leaders called out to them upon arriving.

“Oh, are they?” Janja said while trying to act all innocent.

“Yeah! So drop the melons or you’re all under arrest!” Pinkie stated through her megaphone complete with her and Rarity’s stylish police uniforms.

“Well, don't worry, Kion, Twilight. We'll bring 'em right back. After we drink all their water. Move it, fellas!”

The three quickly took their leave with three melons in tow by rolling them with their noses.

“We gotta stop them!”

“Come on!”

The Lion and Pony Guard quickly pursed them as they leaped down from the small hilltop to give them a chase.

“Faster, fellas!” Janja commanded of the others as the Lion and Pony Guard started gaining on them.

Both Rainbow and Fuli were quick to take him up on the challenge.

“You want fast?”

“You got it! Huwezi!”

Rainbow sprinted ahead while Fuli snatched the melon Cheezi away from his grasp.

“Hey! Oof!”

Without watching where he is going he ended up greeting a super strong and speedy punch from the blue Pegasus waiting for him.

“Oops. My bad.”

“That's one!” Bunga commented as Fuli rolled it over to him.

Next up was the melon Chungu had with Applejack quick to lasso it away from him leading to him to run after it.

“Come on partner, give back that there melon!”

But Chungu wasn’t about to give it up as he tried hugging onto to for dear life. “Uh-uh. I stole it fair and square!” Due to the blinding light flashed in his face due to Rarity’s outfit he wound up crashing right into Beshte causing him to let go of his grip and allowing Applejack to safely secure it.

“There's nothing fair about stealing!” Beshte chided.

“It’s wrong and unkind!” Fluttershy sternly added forcing the hyena to cower under her stare again.

With the melon secure, she rolled it on over to Bunga.

“Zuka Zama! That's two!”

And all that is left is the melon Janja has with Kion catching and wresting it right from his greedy paws.

“Give it up, Janja!” Kion was able to wrestle it away and force the hyena leader to retreat and flee but not with sending it flying into the air. “Somebody grab that last melon!”

“I got it! I got it!” Bunga quickly called out.

“No, no, me, me, me!” Pinkie also shouted unintentionally walking right into a collision course with the honey badger.

“I don't got it.” They both stated together after crashing into each other.

Luckily for them, Twilight was able to secure it with her magic before it smashed into pieces.

“Phew! I haven’t had this much fun playing ball since I was a filly.” She commented in good humor.

“Let me guess, with your brother?” Kyoga asked.

“Yes.”

“Anyways, good thing we came here when we did.”

“How'd the hyenas even find the elephants' melon patch?” Bunga asked curiously.

Fuli scoffed knowing the hyenas track record. “Luck, I'm guessing.”

“Pure luck.” Rarity chimed in agreeing with the cheetah.

“Gotta be. The patch is really well hidden.” Kion said.

“Indeed. It's even difficult for me to see!” Ono added in agreement.

“Me too!” Rainbow also stated leading to a brief argument between the two.

“That’s because your eyesight is not as keen as mine.”

“Says you. If it weren’t for me even spotting them first when they came here we would never have busted them.”

“Ahem.” Twilight cleared her throat with a stern look to get them to break up the bickering before focusing on what’s more important. “In the meantime, we’ll have to keep a close eye on them, in case the hyenas come back.”

“Really?” Rainbow asked finding it a ridiculous task.

“We gotta guard fruit?” Bunga also asked in agreement.

“The melons help give the elephants the water they need to make it through the dry season.” Fluttershy explained.

“Common knowledge, really.”

“It's all part of the Circle of Life.” Kion also reminded them. “And defending it is our job.”

“Even though they can always get more fruit from Ponyville.” Rainbow muttered to herself along with Bunga only to get tail slapped and ribbed courtesy of both Applejack and Rarity. “But it’s true!” She defensively said before giving up.
“I mean, all right all right! I keep watch over them!” She then moved to fly on after them to get a precise eye set on them as they have all retreated to the Outlands.

Upon seeing that her friend is moving on ahead into enemy territory, Twilight quickly flew after her. “Me too!” She quickly stated before taking off. “Rainbow Dash! Wait up!”

When the alicorn was able to catch up, Rainbow had just located the hyenas retreating to the Outlands Volcano.

“Rainbow…”

“I know. But we got to find out if they’re coming back or not. At least can we go in there incognito?”

“Fine.” Twilight huddled with Rainbow before working her magic to teleport away and into the Outlands and inside the rocks leading up to the entrance to the caldera. Once they were in she casted a spell on themselves to make them invisible. “Shh…”

They tiptoed inside just when they spotted the hyenas walking inside.

“Another one of my brilliant plans, ruined by the Lion and Pony Guard!” Janja grumbled to the others in great annoyance.

“Yeah. Those guys and girly girls are always gettin' in our way.” Cheezi added in agreement.

During their walk inside they accidentally stumbled into Ushari who was napping at the time who unfortunately had no time to get out of the way before getting trampled.

“Huh? No!”

But by then it was already too late for him.

“Huh, Ushari…?”

“I thought he was locked up in Tartarus?!”

“He was?”

The invisible girls can only look on trying to understand as they watch them untangle themselves and squabble about it with heated looks and words directed at each other.

“Speakin' of gettin' in our way...”

“Excuse me? Watch your step!”

“Enough!” Their boss’s voice roared out to them as his fiery soul fiercely glared down on their souls for another one of their petty disputes.

Upon seeing him in fire and flame had the hyenas cowering into submission and Ushari being quick to drop the arguement entirely.

Both ponies however, could not believe what they are seeing right in front of them.

“What?”

“How?”

Was all they could say at the moment upon seeing him in his fiery glory.

”Hi, Scar.” Janja nervously greeted.

“What happened this time?”

“We stumbled onto some Tikiti melons and was gonna take 'em. But then the Lion and Pony Guard stumbled onto us…

“And on top of that you stumbled onto me!” Ushari irritably added.

“Only because we didn’t see you there!”

“Well you should have looked where you were going!”

“Why you little…”

“Hey!” Scar barked at them. “Break up the dog pile!” They both shut up immediately as Scar turned back to Janja on the subject. “…and the Lion and Pony Guard defeated you all once more?”

“Yes.” He admitted.

Hearing this had gotten the fiery spirit intrigued by the item brought up in question.

“Tikiti melons! Ah, yes.”

“Did you know they got water inside 'em?” Chungu asked.

“Yes. Precious water. The Pride Lands' elephants would be vulnerable without those melons.”

“Especially during the dry season.” Ushari sinisterly added.

“Hyenas!” Scar barked out loud which had them huddling together in a whimper. “Go back and take all of the Tikiti melons. If the elephants don't have enough water, it will mean the end of their herd! And perhaps the Circle of Life, as well!” He chuckles menacingly at another opportunity to bring chaos to the Pride Lands to seize upon.

“Uh, Scar?” Janja spoke up to remind him of one big flaw in that regard. “We totally wanna help. But the Lion and Pony Guard's just gonna stop us again.”

Undeterred, Ushari had an idea to help them out in that matter. “I know a lizard who can stop the Lion Guard. Then you'll have plenty of time to steal the melons.”

“A lizard? You mean, like one of those skinks?” He asked with his comment directed at said creatures who all scowled and hissed right back at him. “How's one little lizard gonna stop the Lion and Pony Guard?”

“Trust me, my friend is not a little lizard. He's very big. And very bad.“

The Big Bad Kenge

Pleased with this proposal, Scar gave his stamp of approval. “Ushari. Tell your friend Kenge to pay a visit to the Lion and Pony Guard.”

“Certainly.” Ushari nodded before turning back to the others. “And, hyenas? Whatever you do, don't call Kenge a "little lizard."”

“Why's that?” Janja felt the need to ask.

“You don't want to know.”

Acting quick, Twilight pulled Rainbow away so they can sneak out without alerting the bad guys inside.

Once outside and out of sight and on the other side of the volcano where they couldn’t see them, Rainbow wasted no time speaking her shock in light of their discovery. “How is this even possible?! I thought you took away his magic and locked him away back in Tartarus?!”

“I did. Somehow he must have gained enough magic to make contact with the Outsiders.”

“But how?!”

“I don’t know! But we’ll find out soon enough! Right now we have to keep a sharp eye for Janja and his pack along with their special friend.”

“Leaving so soon…?” A stranger’s voice spoke as he emerged from his hiding spot thus startling them. Said stranger came from a giant lizard appearing right in front of them. “…but you arrived just in time to get a sneak preview of what’s about happen next.” Before any of them could say anything Kenge wasted no time leaping right at them.

Rainbow was quick enough to fly out of the way in time, Twilight wasn’t so lucky when their attacker managed to bite the alicorn on the leg who gasped in pain when it happened.

Furious, Rainbow tackled the beast who quickly rolled over body slammed her into the ground to her pin down. Once she was briefly subdued, he bit the blue Pegasus on the leg too, who groaned in pain too.

Now left at the lizard’s mercy when the two were unable to stand up properly due to sudden paralysis in their bitten legs they were left with no option but to make a quick retreat. In order to be able to get away from him, Twilight gave a quick sprint with her wings to yank Rainbow off of the ground before Kenge can try to capture them and then teleported away from the scene.

After they suddenly disappeared, he looked on satisfied that they got the message before moving on ahead to meet up with the hyenas so he can buy them the time they need to get the melons without the Lion and Pony Guard’s interference. All while Starlight Glimmer watched taking pleasure of the sighting from up high on the Cliffside and unseen from the shadows.

Meanwhile the hyenas have managed to reach the bushes nearby the elephant’s hidden melon patch where they are told to meet Kenge.

“Gee, Janja. How big could this lizard be?” Chungu asked his leader.

No sooner than he said it, the lizard himself appeared and made himself known to the gang.

“Okay. That lizard's definitely not little.” Janja commented and unfortunately for him was close by enough for him to hear it.

“What did you call me?” He angrily hissed and demanded.

“Uh, a big lizard!” The now nervous hyena stammered as he corrected himself. “You're a very big, big lizard!”

“That's right. And don't forget it.”

With the tone he used to illustrate that he is not someone to be messed with even as an ally, both Cheezi and Chungu had their say towards Janja about him.

“I wouldn't want to be his enemy.

“I don't even wanna be his friend!”

Kenge thought likewise. “Don't worry. We're not friends. Enough chit-chat! Time to find the Lion and Pony Guard.”

“Find 'em? How you gonna do that?” Janja asked.

“I'm going to let them find me!”

Meanwhile back at the patch, Bunga is starting to get tired of watching over the melon patch, even when they have good reasons too to the point he started playing around with one of the melons.

“Kion, how much longer are we gonna stick around here? You really think the hyenas will come back knowin' we're around? Not too smart, if you ask me.”

“Hyenas aren't smart. Remember?” Fuli reminded as she control of the melon Bunga is playing with so they don’t lose one and have the trouble of explaining that to the elephants.

“And they don’t have the keen sight to know when to back off.” Applejack added in agreement.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Doesn’t mean I have to like it.”

“Fuli and Applejack are right, Bunga.” Kion asserted. “Janja might come back and we can't risk losing these melons.” In order to make sure everything is all good he turned to the Guard’s Keenest of Sight. “Ono? Take another look?”

“Affirmative!“ Ono flew up to the skies to spot them out. “I don't see any hyenas. But...” He gasped upon seeing something alarming. A dust storm spooking the zebras at the watering hole. “Hapana! Animals are being attacked at the watering hole!”

“Attacked? By who?“

“I can't tell. There's too much chaos! But whatever it is, it's fast. And big!”

“Then we've gotta stop it! Ono? Be sure to keep an eye on the melons, too.”

“Affirmative!”

“Now let's go.”

Before they could head out, Twilight and Rainbow suddenly appeared both while still afloat and doing whatever they can to not touch the ground.

“Wait!”

“Stop!”

They urgently warned before they could take off.

“Twilight!”

“Rainbow Dash!”

“What’s going on?!”

Rarity, Applejack, and Kion all asked in that order highly surprised by their sudden reappearance.

“For starters, we know who’s causing trouble there…” Twilight started.

“Okay.” Kion spoke first still expecting more details.

“But…this guy is no ordinary walk in the park. This guy’s huge! He moves fast! He bites really hard!” Rainbow added with emphasis on the word hard.

“Oh my.” Fluttershy gasped.

“Like how big?!” Beshte asked.

“It’s a monitor lizard!”

“A monitor lizard?!” Ono gasped.

“Then what are we waiting for?! Let's stop him!” Bunga eagerly asked ready for a fight before the alicorn moved to stop him from going on ahead.

“Because it’s a trap!” She urgently warned him against trying to confront him.

“And in case you haven’t heard us. Monitor! Lizard! You let him get so much as one bite on you, you’re done! As in Paralyzing Venom if he happens to so much get a bite on you!” Rainbow added for emphasis as she showed the group the bitten and paralyzed legs she and Twilight have now. Hence the reason why they can’t land on the ground.

“But we got to stop him before he hurts anyone else!” Bunga protested wanting to engage in some action. “What if he doesn’t stop there!”

“Bunga’s right!” Kion agreed. “We at least to make sure he doesn’t cause any more harm to anyone else!”

Rainbow exclaimed rather baffled that they are still going to seek him out. “Are you even listening to us?!”

Twilight however accepted their decision without further protest as they all while placing a calming hoof on Rainbow. “Very well. Then we’ll stay here and guard the melons.”

“And I’ll stick with them.” Kyoga vouched.

“Great.” Kion said pleased for her understanding before leading the team on over there. “Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

At the same time Kenge has managed to strike fear into everyone’s hearts with his ongoing rampage.

“Come here, you! Hold still!” Kenge snarled at Thurston thus easily spooking him once more.

“Panic and run!”

He and the rest of the herd all proceeded to run and scream like mice while Kenge watches on with sadistic pleasure like a cat playing with his food.

“That's right! Run away from the big lizard!” He suddenly spotted two nearby impalas before barking his imposing stance towards them thus frightening them away from the watering hole.

The hyenas watching this all laughed finding this all very entertaining.

“Lizard! Stop this attack! Now!” Kion called out to him upon arriving.

“Well, fun's over.” Janja commented expecting another repeat failure.

“I don't know who you are, but this is not how we do things in the Pride Lands!”

“Yeah! Around here we respect the Circle of Life!” Beshte stated in agreement.

“You must be the Lion and Pony Guard.” Kenge said after turning to face them.

“That's right.” Applejack asserted. “Protectors of the Pride Lands!”

“And Equestria!” Rarity stated with the most dignified fighting stance a lady could get before going into battle.

“Yeah. They said you talked like that.” Kenge commented unimpressed himself.

“Then I bet you're not happy to see us!” Bunga smugly commented back.

“Actually, I'm thrilled.” Kenge voiced otherwise with an eager smirk. “Bring it on.”

“You asked for it.” Kion said just as Fuli moved to approach to fight him first.

However what she didn’t expect was how fast and quick the monitor lizard was in snapping his jaws right at her.

“Whoa!” She exclaimed before being nearly bitten in the face. She moved to retreat and leaps away from another attempted bite, but was not quick enough to avoid being bitten on the third attempt and then gasped in pain when it happened. “Oh!”

Fluttershy gasped already sweating in fear and sticking to the sky upon seeing this.

Kion furiously growled as he leaped on Kenge to attack him only for him to easily knock off to the ground by flipping onto his back. Kenge wasted no time in biting his leg when he was down.

“Ow!”

Next Beshte tried to advance on him onto to be forced to back away when he swung his tail at him. Because of his slow speed he was bitten just a second later.

“Ow!”

Fuli suddenly felt her bitten leg go limp and found herself unable to move because of it. “My legs!”

“What's going on?” Kion wondered as his bitten leg went limp too as the others looked on in concern and fear with what is happening in front of them.

“I don't feel so good!” Beshte commented before dropping to the ground too due to his limp leg.

“Kion! What's wrong, darling?” Rarity called out in alarm before having to perform a front flip when Kenge charged at her. “Whoa! Hey! Watch the mane! I just groomed that!” She had to leap once more when he attempted to bite her before succeeding the next time by. “Ow! Where are your manners you rude beast!”

Just then Applejack took a turn trying to tame the beast to pull him away from the unicorn. She grunted with all of her might as she tugged on the rope with her teeth. “That’s right get along you big lizard!”

“Oh I am a big lizard all right! Big enough to beat you!” Kenge moved to effortlessly yank the lasso while pulling the pony up and back down into the ground very hard to the point she ended up landing on her legs again, and injuring her right unbroken back leg before being bitten.

To Applejack the bite felt tame compared to the cracking of her bones she suffered when she broke her leg first time around let along the bruising her other back leg took in.

From the sidelines, Janja watched on in amazement with what he is seeing. “Ushari was right about Kenge. He's takin' 'em down!”

“Yeah!” Cheezi cackled in delight. “Down and out!”

Next up, Bunga stepped forward alongside with Pinkie Pie ready to defend their defeated friends.

“Okay you mean green and greedy old reptile! Listen up! There’s a new sheriff in town and her name is Sheriff Pinkie!” She seriously stated while wearing a wild western outfit to match alongside Bunga.

“Come on, I dare you!”

Kenge laughed in amusement. “Listen to the honey badger and pretty pink pony! You two think you’re brave enough to fight Kenge! Biggest lizard in the Outlands!”

Both remained unfazed in response.

“Well, duh! Of course we’re brave enough to face you silly!”

“And I don't just think it! I know it!”

“Really? I smell fear.”

“I'll give you something to smell!”

“And I’ll give you something to celebrate on!”

Pinkie quickly pulled out her party cannon with Bunga getting inside of it. The cannon immediately went off with Bunga bursting out of it with confetti and a flip before releasing one his most powerful farts in his face.

Kenge wound up coughing in disgust before being forced to retreat.

“Yeah, that's right, you lizard! Run!”

“Run from the Bravest of the Lion and Pony Guard!”

“Hey, wait for us!” Chungu called out to him while pursing him along with the other two hyenas after he passed by them.

Bunga sniffed deeply with great pride. “Smells like victory.”

“You said it!” Pinkie while wearing a gas mask agreed by high-fiving him.

Rarity however groaned and gagged before passing out from it but not without spotting the hyenas following Kenge.

After recovering from her shock once the monitor lizard has left them alone, Fluttershy was quick to tend to her paralyzed friends. “Are you all okay?”

“Yeah, but...” Kion struggled and failed to stand up. “My legs won't move!”

Fuli grunted as the same happened to her. “Neither will mine!"

“I can't even feel them.” Beshte commented without moving a muscle. “They're just numb.”

“That explains why both Twilight and Rainbow didn’t land on the ground when they tried to warn us.” Applejack realized as she found herself unable to put any weight of her legs. “They got bitten before we did.”

“And of course...” Rarity face-hoofed herself at the foolishness they just committed. “…we walked right into the trap both Twilight and Rainbow were trying to warn us. So they can steal the elephant’s melons.”

“You mean the hyenas and the monitor lizard…Hevi Kabisa!” Kion realized it too. “They must be working together!”

“Wait a tick.” Ono gasped. “Hapana! They are!” Ono reported as he caught a glimpse of them heading on over there together. “Janja, Cheezi and Chungu are heading back to the melon patch right now. And Kenge's with them!”

“You mean Janja asked Kenge to bite us so we couldn't stop them from taking the melons?” Applejack asked as it is all starting to come together before grumbling.

“Yep.” Fuli said in agreement feeling the same way upon figuring it out too. “Hook, line, and sinker to a monitor lizard.”

“Why that no good varmit and his clan always seeking to cause trouble!”

“You read my mind, Applejack. Wait till I get my legs back.” Fuli angrily vowed in agreement.

“I heard about them, but I've never seen one until now!” Fluttershy said while shuddering at the sight still fresh on her mind.

“What does that have to do with our legs being numb?” Fuli asked.

“A monitor lizard's bite contains venom which causes paralysis.” Ono explained. “Common knowledge, really.”

“So that's why our legs won't move?” Kion asked.

“Yes, but don't worry.” Ono assured. “The venom will wear off and your legs will go back to normal.”

“Great!” Fuli briefly smiled before frowning once again. “When?”

“I…” Ono started before falling flat. “…I have no idea.”

“A couple of hours at the very least.” Fluttershy meekly answered while looking on apologetically for not being able to give her the answer she is expecting.

“Well, we can't just sit here!” Fuli complained. “That lizard is roaming the Pride Lands!”

“He could bite someone else!” Beshte pointed out.

“And keeping us from being able to protect the elephant’s melon patch.” Applejack added.

“We still have Kyoga and I’m sure both Twilight and Rainbow got some fight in them as long as they aren’t on land.” Kion assured before turning to both available fliers. “Ono, Fluttershy, get Rafiki. Maybe he has a remedy that can heal our legs faster.”

“Affirmative!”

“Don't worry. You’re not alone silly fillies and babies.” Pinkie assured while ruffling everyone’s backs.

“We'll stay here and protect you in case that lizard comes back.” Bunga confidently added while they both walk around the perimeter.

“Ugh!” Fuli groaned while crossing her arms just knowing what they are all in for now.

“Here…” Rarity handed her a gas mask. “…just in case.”

“Thanks.”

In the meantime both the egret and Pegasus made their way over to the tree hoping they have expert healing on their side and nearby today.

“Rafiki? Rafiki!”

“Oh, please be home, please be home. Rafiki?”

“Oh, hi, Ono! Fluttershy!” Makini greeted while emerging and hanging from one of the upper braches upside down. “Rafiki's gone for the day. I'm watching his tree. Well, I'm not really watching it, I'm more like...”

“I’m sorry Makini, but we need your help!” Fluttershy politely yet firmly interrupted wanting to cut to the chase.

“A monitor lizard bit Kion, Twilight, Fuli, Rainbow, Applejack, Rarity, and Beshte!” Ono urgently added. “Their legs won't move!”

“Oh, no!” Makini gasped. “ If they can't move, then they can't protect the Pride Lands and Equestria. And if they can't protect the Pride Lands and Equestrua, then the Pride Lands and Equestria are unprotected, and...”

“The venom will wear off.” Ono quickly assured. “We were hoping Rafiki had a remedy to help them heal faster.”

“Oh, I'm sure he does! Oh, but he's not here. Oh, but I'm here. And Rafiki's teaching me all about remedies. So maybe I can help!”

“But, we were...” Ono tried to speak but Makini still kept on going.

“Or, I mean, I can try to help. I've never actually made a remedy before. I've watched him do it, though.”

“Makini, please!” Fluttershy politely yet firmly interrupted. “We need that cure soon. Very, very, very, soon to stop the hyenas from dooming the elephants to suffering dehydration when they lose their melon supply!” Fluttershy added sounding and looking very worried for everyone involved.

“What?” Makini gasped. “You mean…”

“Yes.”

Immediately Makini got the message and got right to work. “One cure coming up!”

Fluttershy sighed in relief with a smile to boot. “Oh, thank you.”

At the same time Bunga started to take a little fun at Fuli due to being immobilized. “Who's the fastest now, Fuli? Huh? Huh? Who's the fastest now?”

“Still me.” Fuli answered clearly annoyed at him constantly rubbing it in literally to the point she grabbed him on the back fur when he was close enough with his back turned.

“Yeah, okay. But I'm still the bravest!”

“Yes, and that’s it, Bunga.” Rarity spoke up finding it annoying herself. “Just because we can’t move our legs doesn’t mean you have to constantly gloat about it.”

“Yeah, no need to go on acting like Trixie about it!” Applejack agreed.

“But it’s true!” Bunga defended before being taken aback by their glares with Rarity’s meaning she is ready to girly him up in a dress when this is all over if he doesn’t back off. “Okay, okay, I’ll stop!”

“Everyone! Everyone!” Ono called out to the group upon arriving alongside Makini and Fluttershy. “Rafiki's gone all day...”

“But I'm here!” The young mandrill quickly assured. “And I'm going to find a way to help your legs heal faster! Or, I'm gonna try.”

“Thanks, Makini!” Beshte gratefully said knowing it’s the thought that really counts.

“Better than nothing I suppose.” Rarity sighed really wishing that the mandrill is capable of working her magic on this one.

“I’ll take it any day…” Fuli agreed before turning to Makini hopeful that she can come through for them. …We really need your help.”

“But no pressure.” Pinkie happily added acknowledging that she is going to try her best here.

“Okay, now, let's see.” Makini said as she started pondering. “I remember Rafiki telling me something that can help heal. I think it was Ghanda root! Or the kioo stone. Or maybe kupona sap?”

“She's still learning.” Ono explained in a deadpan tone.

“Obviously, still a new one.” Rarity couldn’t but remark in sarcasm.

Then Makini gasped when she thinks she knows how. “Oh, oh, I know! Ponya flowers! I'm almost totally sure that's what Rafiki said can help!”

“Okay!”

“Great!”

“The sooner the better!”

Beshte, Fuli, and Applejack all commented.

But then Makini realized… “Oh. But I don't have any Ponya flowers. Do you?”

“Uh, no.”

“Do we look like we have flowers on us?”

Both Fuli and Rarity returned with the latter still unable to resist dripping sarcasm at Makini.

“Is that any way to treat a friend who’s trying to help?” Applejack asked disapprovingly.

“No, but it is the truth.”

“I can find the flowers, Makini. I am the keenest of sight.” Ono quickly spoke up to help move things along.

“Oh, thank you, Ono! That would be great. Especially because I don't know what Ponya flowers look like!”

“Shocker.” Fuli quipped mimicking Rarity’s voice.

“Rarity!” Applejack scolded once more.

“What?! That wasn’t me this time!” She innocently protested before frowning back at the cheetah who simply smirked.

“Hey! Got to find some way to entertain myself while I wait here with you.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie both laughed together finding humor in all of this.

“Anyways…” Ono said deciding to pay no mind to the class clowns of the Guard. “…Well, they're bright red... Hmm.” He then remembered. “And there's a big bush of them by Big Springs!” Just then they heard Janja cackling again. “And Janja and the hyenas along with the lizard are all heading their way back to the melon patch.”

“Wait till I get my legs back.” Fuli growled.

“And you will! As soon as I get the Ponya flowers!” Makini assured.

With action needed to be taken, Kion turned to the others who still can move and fight. “Bunga. Pinkie. Ono. Fluttershy. You've gotta stop Kenge and the hyenas. Twilight, Rainbow Dash, and Kyoga will need all of the help they can get.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie were quick and ready to set up to the task.

“No problem, Kion. They'll be sorry they ever left the Outlands.

“In fact! By the time we’re done with them they won’t be getting an invitation to my next party!”

Ono and Fluttershy however weren’t so keen to step up to the task.

“But, you mean, just us?”

“Against that big mean creepy lizard!”

“Sure!” Bunga confidently assured. “We've got brains and bravery! In addition the elements of laughter and kindness on our side.”

“Yeah!” Pinkie agreed. “Something to laugh about when we beat them and get them to be kind enough to give them mercy. What more do we need?”

“More friends to help us out.” Fluttershy replied meekly.

“Oh don’t you worry, Fluttershy…” Pinkie assured while hugging her tight. “…we’ve got your back!” She then turned to the still nervous egret. “Right, Ono?”

“Hmm.” Ono said reluctantly before speaking up. “I guess there's no other choice. Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...” He started.

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!” Both Bunga and Pinkie stated as they ran and flew off together.

Elsewhere at the melon patch, Twilight, Rainbow, and Kyoga have spotted the four Outsiders approaching them once again.

“Remember, this time we gotta take all the melons.” Janja reminded his clan as they approached the seemingly unguarded patch. “Then the elephants won't have nothin' to drink when their watering holes go dry.”

“And that’s a very good plan Janja…” Twilight commented as she appeared while flying. “…certainly what Scar would have done if he was around.”

Janja was left stunned in shock upon seeing her again before being greeted to a powerful surge of magic that forced the four Outlanders away. “What?! But how?!”

“Hmm…” Kenge gave the alicorn a good look before deducing. “…because she’s not putting support on where I bit her!”

“Well…that makes one of us!” Rainbow voiced while rushing down on the monitor lizard at such a fast speed that he had no time to prepare for a punch to the face. A punch so hard that his nose got bruised super hard and felt some of his teeth left crooked and out of place. “And that was for biting us earlier!”

Kenge growled in response to the two fliers in front of him ready for a fair fight. “Go!” He shouted towards the hyenas. “Hyenas! You get the melons. I deal with these two!!” He moved to take a bite at them only for the two to separate before he could grab them.

Acting like a tag duo team, Rainbow flew in with her super speed while using her wings to fling dirt and dust into his eyes. When the dust cleared up, he is suddenly greeted when Twilight performs a karate kick to the face. After tumbling backwards, Rainbow and Twilight both relentlessly moved to punch and kick him every chance they get while taking turns just when Kenge tried to make a move on one of them.

After barely picking himself up as he glares down his opponents who are both ready to attack whenever he is ready to try again. Neither one of them said a word but the expressions make it clear that it’s only going to get worse for him if he keeps this up.

But he wasn’t about to give up there, deep down he was determined to get the better of them. Upon spotting their tails just above grabbing reach he had an idea. By thinking fast he lunged up and grabbed them by the tails without warning, twirled them around before flinging them aside causing them to crash into the nearby bushes and knocking them out cold.

Kenge growled just when Janja called out to them after taking care of business. “Hey, lizard! You wanna give us a little help here or what?”

Kenge however didn’t take kindly to the word itself. “Little?” He snarled enraged.

“Okay, how 'bout some big help then?” He hastily corrected himself.

“You think you're in charge here?”

Janja was left stammering in response to that threatening response. “Me? Uh, maybe? But, uh, maybe not.”

His lackeys however couldn’t resist saying the truth.

“Janja! You say that all the time!”

“Yeah!”

“"I'm in charge! I'm in charge!"”

Janja could only scowl in annoyance in their direction for having big mouths.

With that said, Kenge made his say while getting in his face in an intimidating manner. “Maybe you're in charge of them. But you're not in charge of me!” He then commanded. “Now we start rolling!”

With the threat made clear, they all complied and started rolling while Kenge takes lead ready to attack the next Lion or Pony Guard member that they come across.

“Yeah, yeah.”

“Okay!”

“Sure!”

“My venom won't stall the Lion Guard forever. We'll need to get to the Outlands before they recover!” He warned as they made their out of the patch.

“Too late for that, lizard.” Bunga called out as he appeared alongside the remaining members of the team. “The Lion and Pony Guard's already here to stop you!”

Janja smugly smirked in response. “What Lion and Pony Guard?”

“This Lion and Pony Guard!” Kyoga stated sporting her ready to fight expression.

“Whatever! Point being, most of you ain't even here! Not even Twilight and Rainbow Dash, thanks to Kenge. Uh, the very big Kenge!” He added when he briefly glanced threateningly in his direction.

“That's right. You five can't possibly stop us.”

“Oh, yeah? We'll see about that!”

“Zuka Zama!”

Before leaping into battle they had time for this brief exchange.

“You and Fluttershy take the hyenas, Ono. Pinkie I got the lizard. And if you can back us all up Kyoga, great.” Bunga told the others.

“You can count on that!”

“Affirmative!”

“Got it!”

“Ready, Bunga?”

“Yep! Zuka Zama!”

Before they could so, Kenge already made an attempt at both Fluttershy and Ono and would have bitten their wings had Bunga not leaped on and clamped his jaws and Pinkie not bounced on top of him.

In addition, Kyoga sent a blast of magic to force him back just before he could do anything else, along with performing a drop kick to knock him on his back.

“Whoa!”

“Ahh!”

“That was close!”

“Thanks, Bunga and Pinkie!”

“Anytime!”

Kenge snarled in response to both the honey badger and pink earth pony before hissing in their direction with the latter having a cupcake rifle on hoof.

“There's more where that came from!”

“And we got plenty of it!”

At the same time, Ono and Fluttershy were quick to intercept the hyenas.

“Give up those melons, hyenas!”

“They’re not yours to take!”

Ono swooped in and tripped up both Cheezi and Chungu with the melons with Kyoga being quick to seize them with her magic before they can all scatter.

“Ooh!”

“Oh!”

“Watch it, fur-brains! Don't lose the melons!” He warned them just before being intercepted by Fluttershy who wasted no time in giving him the Stare. “Whoa! Hey! Easy now! Easy now!” He fearfully stated while shielding his own eyes.

Kenge moved to circle around both Bunga and Pinkie while feeling incensed by their constant defiance. “I've had enough of you both, honey badger and pink pony.”

“Oh, yeah? Tell me about it!” Bunga dared while leaping over and sliding across his body before leaping over to a nearby melon.

“Yeah me too!” Pinkie rushed over to his face while repeatedly tapping him on the face. “Yoo hoo! Over here! Missed me! Whoops! Missed again! Oops you missed!” She rapidly spoke with each failed attempted. “Wow! You are not on such a big winning streak right now are you!”

Kenge was now enraged as he charged up for another good bite…

…only for Bunga to shove a melon up his throat.

“Got anything to say about that?” Pinkie asked with a smile.

“No, no, really.” Bunga tauntingly implored. “Tell us about it. Speak up!”

While Fluttershy was steeling her fierce look on Janja’s face, Ono was pecking him and his buddies relentlessly.

“Beat it, bird! Scat! Shoo!”

“We got this, Ono!”

By rolling one of the melons like a bowling ball with another being used to give the first melon a good burst of speed, the hyenas all were knocked down in one effortless throw.

“Strike!”

“Times three and you’re all out of here!”

“Ha! Nice shot, Bunga!” Ono complimented as he flew on over them. Unfortunately it proved to be an inopportune time when Kenge crushed the melon with his jaws and managed to get a bite on him just when he tried to fly up and dodge the attack while Bunga and Pinkie successfully dodged. “Ow! My wing!” He tried and grunted with all of his might to stay afloat to no avail before collapsing to the ground in pain.

“Ono!” Bunga gasped.

And in an instant Kenge did the same for Fluttershy while her back was turned followed by another bite to the legs to further ensure she is completely paralyzed.

“Ouch!” Fluttershy yelped as she dropped down to the ground like a fly while her gazing hold on the hyenas was broken.

“Fluttershy!” Pinkie gasped before angrily frowning at her attacker. “Hey!” Pinkie moved to tackle and repeatedly punch the lizard leading to the two to tumble across the grass. “Don’t! Bite! My! Friend!” She stated with each punch before the latter moved to bite the former on the forearm after using a free front paw to swipe the pony off of him. “Ow!” She screamed in pain.

“Leave them alone! You want another stink bomb?” Bunga threatened when they faced off once more.

“What I want is you out of my way once and for all!” He charged at him once again and was able to land a hit on him when he tripped him up with his tail and managed to land a bite on his right leg.

“Whoa! You bit me!”

Kenge spit out saliva after doing so. “Yeah, and you and the pink pony both taste as bad as you smell.”

“Hey!”

“Now if nobody minds, we’ll be taking the fruit.”

“I mind…” Kyoga stated as she prepared to work her magic on the four. “…and now your four are all going back to…”

ZAP!

“Ow!”

Suddenly Kyoga was knocked aside by a powerful blast of magic from behind thus paralyzing her long enough for Kenge to quickly rush over to bite her.

“A little advice, you pirated lion. Find shorter magic words.” Now with the whole Guard dealt with they were all free to go with fruit for the crocs and jackals to feast on as celebratory drinks. “Let's go!”

Janja chuckled in delight before he and his pack moved to roll away the melons with their noses. “Hey, nice one, Kenge! Now that ya took care of the Lion and Pony Guard, takin' melons is easy!”

“Yes, hyenas. That was the plan.”

“Kyoga!” Pinkie quickly rushed over. “Are you okay?”

Kyoga groaned in pain. “Well that depends on what you define is okay? That we're all still standing or the fact that an Outsider aside from Scar is actually getting the best of you?”

“A little from Column A and a little from Column B.” She admitted with a giggle. “More on Column A though.”

“I can't believe that lizard bit us!” Bunga commented in disbelief. “And somebody just used magic on Kyoga from out of nowhere! And your on your legs, Pinkie!”

“Huh?” She realized she really is still standing like the bite had no effect on her. “Hey! How about that!” She giggled and bounced around like a kid in the candy store. “Woo-hoo! I’m immune to lizard venom!”

“Really…” Ono asked in disbelief. “…well, that makes one of us.”

“Can you feel anything?” Fluttershy asked Bunga.

“Just my feet.” He wiggled his toes… ”And my legs...” He moved them and managed to stand up without any paralysis effect on him. “Hey! I can feel everything! Un-Bunga-lievable! I'm okay too!”

“Great.” Ono groaned with another Pinkie mystery he’ll never understand. “I hope Makini found those Ponya flowers.”

“Me too.” Fluttershy agreed.

“Same here.” Kyoga couldn’t have said it better too while the invisible unicorn lurking around made her leave without being spotted.

By the time Twilight and Rainbow Dash came too they managed to get back to flying again since they weren’t bitten in both encounters and were able to group up with the others.

“Us too!” Rainbow also stated before moving to hoist Fluttershy and Ono with her front hooves while Twilight moved to do the same with Kyoga.

“Come on.” Twilight added while glimpsing a sight of the footprints of the invisible attacker.

To her it was like the pieces were starting to come together, but as for the main question in regards to Scar, well that’s an even bigger piece of the puzzle.

Meanwhile, Makini has indeed found flowers and has just placed them on top and all around half of the Guard’s bodies.

One of the flowers landed on Fuli’s nose causing her sneeze and blow it onto Rarity’s snout who ended up doing the same.

“Eww.”

“So Makini…” Fuli spoke up asking. “…are we supposed to smell the flowers?”

Kion spit out one of the flowers that landed in his mouth before asking. “Eat them?”

“Or wear them?” Beshte asked.

“Well we’re already wearing them.” Applejack commented. “Like we have a choice in the matter.”

“Hmm.” Rarity held her head up high. “And here I’m being the one that’s rude.”

Makini paid no attention to the remarks as she is more focused on healing her friends. “Yes! Actually, I'm not sure.” She then admitted. “But if we do all three, then something's bound to work!”

“Question is which one does have a successful effect?” Rarity honestly wondered just when the others arrived.

“Well, I've got good news and bad news! The good news is, I'm immune to monitor lizard venom!”

“And so am I!”

Both Bunga and Pinkie cheerfully told everyone.

“But how…” Ono started to ask before shaking his head against it. “…never mind. Anyways, guess what the bad news is.” Ono then said.

“The lizard bit all of you guys and girls, too?” Kion asked.

“Yep. And now I can’t fly.”

“Me neither.”

“Nor run thanks to some random magic attack from out of nowhere.”

Hearing this sparked confusion and alarm amongst the group.

“Huh?!”

“What?!”

“But how?” Kion asked.

“I don’t know! But I know now that the hyenas and lizard are all heading on over to the Outlands with all of Tikiti melons because of that!”

“What? No!” Kion gasped before turning to Twilight and Rainbow. “Didn’t you two try to stop him?!”

“We did!”

“And we both nearly got our tails ripped out of us for it!”

“Just when we him dead to rights!”

Of both ponies Rainbow was the most frustrated in dealing with Kenge’s successful track record upon seeing that some of the group is already feeling bad enough about it had Kion back off on giving them a hard time.

Beshte trying to help make things better tried to complement their best healing cure they have. “Well, I think these Ponya flowers are at least starting to make our legs feel better. Right, guys?”

“Uh, sure.”

“I guess.”

“Better than nothing I suppose.”

“At least it’s the thought that counts.”

“Oh, good!” Makini then moved to place flowers around the remaining Guard crew, all three methods as described by Kion, Fuli, and Beshte. “Here, Ono, Kyoga, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow. Wear this! Now smell. And eat!”

“Okay.”

“Um…”

“Sure…”

“Let’s…”

“But how is doing any of this or all of above going to do us any…”

They all end up gulping down a petal and they all voiced their opinion about it.

“Hmm, not bad.”

“Hmm…” Fluttershy didn’t have a great taste in the petals like it was medicine.

“Tastes just like a flower.” Kyoga commented dryly.

“Bleh!” Rainbow stuck out her tongue in disgust.

“Eh.” For Twilight, medicine is medicine.

With that aside, now it was time to focus on the current dilemma right now.

“What are we gonna do, Kion? We still can't walk and only Twilight and Rainbow can get around by flying!” Both ponies shrugged in response.

Bunga and Pinkie both however remained undeterred.

“Maybe you can't. But we can!”

“Yeah! We can handle 'em alone, honey badger and Pinkie Pie style.”

“But there's too many of them.” Beshte pointed out. “You're outnumbered!”

“Actually, no…” Twilight shook her head as she and Rainbow floated up over their heads. “…account for two members of the Guard who can use magic even while paralyzed that evens the unfair advantage.”

“But we still need another pair of legs to help out.” Kion pointed out before turning to the mandrill standing before them. “Makini, we need you to help Bunga, Pinkie, Twilight, and Rainbow save those melons.”

“Me?” Makini having no combat experience didn’t feel comfortable about the idea. ”But, oh, uh, I don't know.”

“Without that water, the elephants won't survive the dry season!”

“It could change the Circle of Life forever!”

“We really need your help, Makini.”

Ono, Beshte, and Fuli all said to further stress the severity of the situation.

Wwith her strong desire to help kicking into gear, Makini vouched her support. “I'll do everything I can.”

“Thanks, Makini.”

“And don't worry.” Twilight assured with a comforting hoof. “We'll be right there to protect you.” She then turned to keen-sighted fliers. “Ono, Rainbow, what path were the hyenas taking to the Outlands?”

Both fliers flew up to spot them out.

“They seemed to be heading toward Embamba Canyon.” Ono reported.

“That's a pretty narrow pass.” Fuli commented.

“Then that also means you better get on over there because if we don’t stop them there they’re home free.” Applejack then said seeing that time is at the essence now with them almost at the kingdom’s border.

“Okay.” Kion said with a new resolve and a confident smile. “I have a plan.”

“Oh, good. I really hope it'll work.” Makini expressed seeking for good luck on their side.

“So do I.” Twilight agreed.

At the narrow pass, the active members of the Guard spotted their enemies approaching the borderline.

“Okay, there they are.”

“Target sighted.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie said.

“We need to hurry, Bunga! They're almost to the Outlands!” Makini urgently expressed.

“Don't worry, Makini. Just remember the plan.” Pinkie again assured.

“Right.” Makini after performing the deep breathing exercise was able to steel her nerves. “Shwari. I can do this.”

“Ready?” Twilight asked Rarity while hoisting her up in the air while Rainbow moved to do the same with Kyoga.

“Ready!”

“It’s payback time!”

They flew up ahead, while Bunga, Pinkie, and Makini all remained on the ground.

To make his appearance known Bunga came down to greet them, all while singing. “Zuka Zama, I'm immune! Zuka Zama, zoom zoom zoom!”

Seeing this got the four Outsiders baffled at seeing him again along with moving around like nothing happened.

“The honey badger?”

Not only that…

“And the pretty pink pony, Pinkie Pie!” Said pony suddenly appeared by their side.

“AHH!”

“AHH! Yourself!”

“What the…What are they doing here?”

“Yeah, I thought you bit them.” Cheezi asked.

“I did!” Even Kenge can’t understand why this is happening while they are all unaware that Makini is making her down from behind.

“Hey, Kenge!”

“Yoo-hoo!”

Kenge snarled before bounding up towards them. “What are you two doing here?!”

“Just wanted to let you know your bite's not workin' anymore. See?” He showed his behind as emphasis. “It hasn't stopped me!”

“And me!” Pinkie cheerfully mocked while using her tail to slap his face around. “Guess that bite of yours ain't so bad after all!”

“Oh, yeah?”

“Phew! But your breath, now that's bad! I mean really you should start considering having breath mints.” Pinkie moved to chunk one into his throat and forced him to swallow it. “There much better!”

”Gotta tell you, for someone who says they're a big, scary lizard, you're not that scary or that big.” Bunga then taunted while Makini moved to hide melons in the nearby rocks.

“Uh-oh!” Cheezi remarked as he and the other hyenas cringed knowing what’s about to happen next.

“What did you just say?” Kenge demanded with barely controlled anger.

“Which part? Pinkie asked. “The part where you're not scary, or the part where you're not big?”

“Just don't call him little, Bunga! You too, Pinkie!” Cheezi fearfully tried to warn the two like they are playing with fire right now as the monitor lizard threateningly approached them.

But of course to both Bunga and Pinkie that is actually useful information about Kenge they can use against him. “Oh! You don't like being called a little lizard.”

“Stop saying that!”

“Saying what?”

"Little lizard"?

Bunga then held Kenge by squishing his cheeks together while tauntingly mocking. “Little lizard. Oh, little lizard.”

“I am not a little lizard!” Kenge furiously screamed as he stood on only two legs.

“Whoa. He's gonna get it now.” Chungu fearfully commented while he and the other hyenas were all huddled together.

“Eh, I've seen bigger. Lots bigger!”

“And by that I mean super bigger than you! Why I seen snakes bigger than you!”

And that was the last straw that sent Kenge into a flying rage as he charged at the both of them all while inadvertently plowing through the hyena clan in the process.

For both the pink pony and honey badger, it is like it is all a game to them.

“Stand and fight, pony and honey badger!”

“Oh, are we fighting I thought you were just getting warmed up!”

“I was!”

Kenge made a few more attempts at the pink pony all while failing to land a hit on her.

“Is that all you got? Geez! Any small lizard could outdo you these days!”

Kenge furiously attempted another bite which failed just when Bunga appeared to take a turn in having him chase him and while having fun with it.

“How ya gonna bite me if you can't even catch me?” Once he got beside Cheezi he then taunted while shaking his rump. “Ahoy! I’m the Big Bad but Little Lizard!”

And just like he counted on, Cheezi was bitten in a mad frenzy.

“Ow! What'd I do?” He complained before dropping to the ground in pain and having lost feeling in his legs.

Next both the honey badger and pony moved to appear in front of Chungu ready to do the same thing with him.

“What's the matter, little lizard? Can't tell a hyena from a honey badger?”

“Yeah! Also, I don’t why, but I thought you’d be better than any other little lizard?!”

That remark drove Kenge into only biting Chungu but also nearly biting Pinkie in the face to which she very narrowly dodged by a few inches with the former screaming in pain when it happened.

“Eep!”

“Ow!”

“Gee, I guess he can't.” Chungu helplessly commented before dropping the ground due to his legs now being paralyzed.

“Sloppy very sloppy!” Pinkie taunted while enraging Kenge like a deranged ape.

Now Bunga and Pinkie were both circling around Janja as Kenge tried to corner them.

“Hey, hey, hey! Leave me out of this!” The hyena leader protested.

“See? I knew you couldn't catch us... Huh?”

“Hey!”

Instantly, both Bunga and Pinkie were caught and restrained from behind by Janja.

“Hey! Let us go you big meanie!”

“Yeah! Don't make me use my stink on you, Janja!”

Now that Kenge had them right where he wants them he was now prepared to put an end to this. “Nowhere to run now! You little smart mouths! And this time I'm not just gonna bite you both, little honey badger, and little pink pony. I'm gonna eat you both too!”

Knowing that she now needed to act quickly in order to save them, Makini moved to throw one of the melons right at Kenge causing him to accidentally bite Janja while letting go of his grasp on the two when it happened. To add insult to injury, Bunga and Pinkie both just laughed at them.

“Oh, this ain't fair!” Janja remarked before dropping to the ground after being paralyzed.

“Who threw that melon?” Kenge angrily asked before quickly turning around and figuring it out upon spotting the young mandrill. “You!”

Before he could advance on them, he was greeted to another punch and kick to the face courtesy of both Rarity and Kyoga with the latter quick sending some quick blasts of magic with her paws at him. Then instantly, Twilight and Rainbow after letting them go who have both now recovered from their paralysis swooped in and unleashed their magic and hooves on him too relentlessly as payback for earlier.

Despite Kenge’s attempts to bite at them while using his teeth and tail, he quickly found himself overwhelmed by the four who have now have him beaten and cornered.

“You’ve lost this battle!” Bunga stated with crossed arms along with effortlessly avoiding another bite and getting punched in the face by Rainbow Dash and kicked by Rarity.

“Are you crazy?! Your friends haven’t thrown a single blow!”

“No, but you have.” Twilight gestured to the hyenas he bitten during his frenzy. “Apparently for a guy so strong and filled with powerful venom, you have no restraint.”

“And now it is time for you all to leave!” Bunga then said before calling out. “Now, Kion! Now!”

“What?”

And that’s when the remaining Lion and Pony Guard appeared now having recovered from the monitor lizard’s venom.

“The Lion and Pony Guard?” Cheezi asked highly surprised to see them.

“Uh, Janja? Ain't you gonna tell us to "Run, fur-brains"?” Chungu also asked.

“If we could, I would.” Janja could only groan in response due to the paralysis they now have.

“Time to go home, Kenge!” Kion stated before locking eyes and unleashing the Roar on the defeated Outsiders all while they screamed helplessly as they are sent across the border.

“Whoa!”

“And stay out!” Bunga shouted in their direction after emerging from the cave he and the others took cover inside of.

“Yeah!” Both Makini and Pinkie cheered in agreement.

“Poa!” Beshte remarked in amazement. “Kion, your roar blew them all the way back to the Outlands!”

“And only that we managed to pummel that Big Bad Lizard too!” Rainbow pounded her hooves together now relishing in finally being able to defeat him. “And it was Awesome!”

“It was.” Twilight agreed. “Now let's make sure the melons are safe!”

“Kion, Twilight, that was un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga complimented when they climbed down into the pass so they can assist with gathering the melons they’ve just managed to get back.

“Not as amazing as you tricking that lizard into biting the hyenas!” Twilight returned equally impressed. “Along with having some friends getting in on the action.” She added in both Rarity and Kyoga’s direction who both smiled in appreciation.

“Your legs are working again!” Makini pointed out as everyone is all standing on their hooves and paws with no flying assistance required. “The flowers helped!”

“They sure did, Makini.”

“They really did work wonders, darling!”

“They healed us.”

“You healed us.”

“They sure did.”

“And for that, we thank you!”

Beshte, Rarity, Ono, Fuli, Rainbow, and Applejack all said as they commended her for what she did today.

Hearing this had Makini elated to see that she came through for them after all. “Yay!” But she still couldn’t help but wonder. “I wish I knew how I did that.”

“Just the magic of healing is all.” Kyoga said while winking to her to assure she’ll understand one day.

“What about the melons? Bunga, Pinkie, are they okay?” Kion asked.

“Sure are!”

“They are all fine!”

They happily reported.

“Now the elephants will have enough water to make it through the dry season.” Ono commented in delight.

“Whee!” Pinkie squeed. “This calls for a celebration!” She then sees everyone eyeing at her like she is crazy. “That is…after we get these melons to the patch, of course.”

“Well said.” Kyoga commented before everyone all huddled around her and Twilight so they can get together for a group teleportation.

But before that happened Bunga commented. “I sure am glad you all can move again. Taking on Kenge and the hyenas by myself along with Pinkie is one thing, but movin' all these melons? That's hard work!”

Both Twilight and Kyoga turned to each other and then nodded in agreement.

“On second thought, that’s a great idea, Bunga.” Kyoga commented with a smirk.

“Why teleport when we can walk and continue regaining the feeling in our legs, wouldn’t you all agree?” Twilight also commented while smirking too while turning to the others.

“Sure!”

“Why not!”

“Yep!”

“I could go for a long walk.”

“Absolutely!”

“I think a walk is a splendid idea, darlings.”

Kion, Beshte, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity all agreed in that order.

“Better get to work, Bunga.” Rainbow teasingly remarked while handing him a few melons to roll across back into the Pride Lands. While floating aside him, he couldn’t resist but adding. “Should have kept your big mouth shut.”

“Come on, Rainbow. You too!” Twilight called out to her.

“What?! Aw man! Is it because I…”

“Yes.”

Rainbow groaned before complying and following suit with the others in rolling the melons back to the Pride Lands where they’ll be safe and sound.

Along the way, both Twilight and Rainbow gave this private exchange.

“Should we tell them?!”

“We will. As soon as we find enough proof to find out how he did it.”

“Fair. But that still doesn’t make any sense. How could Scar manage to get in contact with the Outsiders if he’s in Tartarus?!”

“I think the real question is, is he actually in Tartarus?” She rightfully wondered as she suspects more foul play behind it all especially since they haven’t seen Starlight either alongside Scar since defeating them.

Said question is answered in secret by said lion’s fiery head watching on from inside the volcano.

Scar chuckled as he quietly responded. “No I’m not, dear Twilight.”

Starlight who is appearing on the cliff edge questioned. “But she is going to find out how.”

“Oh yes, Starlight. All part of the plan…where Operation D-Day is coming closer and closer.” He then pulled out a visual of both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance making plans for what is supposed to be a momentous occasion for them. Locking eyes on them, the event where it all started is now about to be the same event where things once again reach its peak.

Both Scar and Starlight looked on with evil smiles as the biggest opportunity for revenge against Twilight Sparkle is fast approaching and very, very soon…

Author's Note

Here in this episode, the Lion and Pony Guard are going toe to toe with a new foe that is giving them a run for their money, and said foe is of course a monitor lizard who has a paralyzing bite in his venom who wasted no time in taking out most of the Guard throughout this episode.

With the Lion and Pony Guard unable to get up on their hooves and legs it paved way for the hyenas to make off with the elephant's watermelon supply (which are very special to them so I think we can cut them some slack here.)

But not all of the Lion and Pony Guard since given we're dealing with both Bunga and Pinkie Pie (who defies all laws of logic) we're able to withstand Kenge's venom to buy the rest of the Guard time to recover so they can retrieve the melons while delivering much deserved payback to the lizard that bit them.

But even with the current task at hoof dealt with, there is still one big lingering issue at hoof as both Twilight and Rainbow wound up spotting Scar appear to the hyenas in the Volcano and are starting to get clued in that something is definitely amiss here...

But in the meantime, next up is Amending Fences where Twilight tries to repair old friendships she once had (or what she feels she didn't have) back in Canterlot so stay tuned because I have some more surprises in store for this episode...

Episode 17: Amending Fences Part One

Episode 17:

Amending Fences Part One

One night at the Castle of Friendship both the Prince and Princess of Friendship, Kion and Twilight were both relaxed as they both sat comfortably on the couch together with the latter being the first to express her relief while reading her book.

"It sure is good to finally be able to relax, isn’t it Kion?”

“Absolutely! Especially after dealing with four events in one week!"

“You can say that again.” Fuli commented in agreement while stretching her back on one of the sofa’s on the opposite side of the room. “It sure is good to be able to feel flexible once again after getting paralyzed by a monitor lizard."

To emphasize her point she quickly ran a lap through the living room through the kitchen on her way through every room on the first floor, before going outside before going around and running back right where she started. In the process, she ended drying all of the dishes that all landed nicely on top of each other in a neat and orderly fashion.

Just as soon as she settled back down on her resting couch, both Bunga and Spike came walking in wearing aprons, yellow rubber gloves, and clothes over their foreheads.

"You know the worst thing about you two being the Prince and Princess of Friendship?” Spike asked rather wearily as he took off the gloves. “The dishes.”

“Aww, come on, Spike.” Bunga said with an easygoing demeanor. “It wasn’t that bad.”

“Only because you were licking off every single crumb that was left behind on them.”

“Well what can I say? At least every bite of food was eaten as opposed to…”

“Bunga, no, don’t say it!”

“…finishing dinner by being rather crummy about it.”

While Bunga chuckled at his own joke, the others however didn’t find it amusing as him. Both Kion and Twilight groaned softly while Fuli was a little more vocal over her dislike of the attempted humor.

“You should have listened, Bunga.”

“Aww, come on guys. That was funny!” Everyone just looked on like he is trying to pull their legs.

“Maybe to you, and could you kindly not pull my leg, please?!”

“Oops.” He realized that he was literally pulling on one of her back legs along with sheepishly scratching the back of his head. “My bad!”

“Anyways, thanks for taking care of that, Spike." Twilight gratefully said to him as he joined her on the couch.

“No problem.” Spike kindly returned as he took a book he had placed on the counter earlier so too could sit back to read alongside Twilight.

“You know what’s funny?” Bunga asked as he used some of the old newspapers to create a makeshift sailor’s hat. “All of these ponies and Pride Landers from here and there comin' to you two for advice about friendship?"

"How is that funny?" Kion asked curiously and confused himself.

"You know, 'cause from what I heard Twilight used to be famous for being such a bad friend."

Twilight sat upright, looking at the honey badger now confused and somewhat hurt. "What are you talking about? I had good friends in Canterlot. And as for recently, that’s all in the past now. I though we moved past it."

“We did. But come on Twilight. Look at the wall…” He said directly her attention to the nearby pictures on the wall. "D'ya see any photos from before we moved to Ponyville? And look at you now – the Princess of Friendship."

Twilight stood up from the sofa and took a good look at the pictures during her time in Ponyville. And much to her horror, he was correct about the fact that not one photo depicting her with any of her Canterlot friends from the past.

"This is a disaster! All my old friends! I can't remember what they look like! I think I remember Twinkleshine. Or, was it Lemon shine? Was she the white one or the blue one?" she gasped again, "I can't believe this!"

Kion stood up in an effort to try to calm her down. “Easy Twilight. I’m sure Bunga didn’t mean to say it like that.”

“Yeah!” Spike stood up in agreement too. “You’ve come so far ever since then, Twilight."

Twilight still uneasy with the discovery turned to grab the little dragon by the shoulders. "But do you really think that they think I'm a bad friend?!"

Spike now wasn’t sure of how to properly respond to that. “Uh…no.”

"Oh, I feel terrible! I've gotta make it up to them!"

“Twilight…” Fuli tried to say in an effort to keep her grounded.

But she blew right by her before she could get another word out.

“Pack a bag, Spike! We're going to Canterlot!" Twilight made a mad dash up the stairs to her room, before moving to pack her belongs. But not without adding as she briefly popped her head own to address to Spike for a second. "And make a list of my friends' names."

After returning to packing, Kion, Spike and Fuli all shot frowns and glares at Bunga.

"Once again you and your big mouth stirs up trouble again. Congratluations Bunga, you really take the cake there.” Fuli sarcastically remarked to the nervously chucking honey badger.

“Really?”

“Yes.” She bluntly replied. “And no, there is no cake for dessert tonight.”

“Aw man!”

Kion sighed in defeat knowing exactly what this means for them. “Well, guess we’re going on a field trip back to Canterlot again.”

“Yep.” Fuli replied with the same defeated expression. “Some things never change.”

As soon as Twilight dashed out of the library with Spike hoping on her back having prepared for that, Kion and Fuli both in flight and on ground followed closely after her with Bunga riding on his best friend’s back on the way over.

"Come on, Twilight. You're getting worked up about nothing." Spike insisted in his attempts to get her to calm down.

“Not to mention getting us all worked up on our energy.” Fuli added as she managed to keep pace with everyone.

“Please, Twilight. That was all a long time ago.” Kion said trying to implore of her once more they have no reason to resent you now. “They put it behind them.”

“But what if they truly hadn’t put it all behind them, Kion? You knew me from when we first met so you would know that. Everyone knows that!”

"But why now are you worrying what you may have said and did back then to make them think that way?”

“Because it didn’t occur to me up until this point.” wilight flew ahead and landed in the middle of the courtyard. Kion landed on the ground seconds later with Fuli performing a big leap over the castle wall to join them. Spike and Bunga jumped off of both Twilight and Kion's back as the alicorn looked up at the tower that used to be her home.

"The only logical place to start is at the beginning. This is where I use to live when I was Celestia's student." She explained while she walked towards it, along with the others.

“Nice.” Bunga complimented with a friendly nudge. “Pretty fitting for a protégé like yourself.”

“Thanks.” She replied all while still focused on her old home before entering the place. Since it was currently nighttime most of everything was covered in darkness. The place was clean itself, all while nothing had been moved out of place since she was last here. “It's exactly how we left it!"

“Everything down to the last book, huh?” Kion commented as he Fuli and Bunga soaked in their surroundings of the place that Twilight used to live in.

“Yep.”

“Makes perfect sense.” Fuli commented as she took notice of all of the books along with many, many items that no library could ever imagine of having. “Considering that this room was most likely reserved for the princess’s protégé only and you haven’t been here since.”

“Yep.”

Kion then literally stumbled across the book when he nearly lost his balance. He was able to keep himself from falling over before moving to blow the dust away from the book. "What’s this?! The Predictions and Prophecies? The original Elements of Harmony?”

“Uh-huh.” Twilight nodded as she and Fuli appeared behind his shoulders. “Back before they and the Roar came together as one.”

“So it’s safe to say that this is outdated information?” Fuli asked.

“Yep.”

Spike also found something he recognized upon spotting it. It was the broken red present box with a yellow ribbon along with the busted teddy bear. "Hey, here's that present I was gonna give Moon Dancer! Huh. Guess she won't be needing that." He tossed the bear away into the nearby trash can only to discover something else within the box. "Hey, look! The rest of it's still here!"

Though Twilight was still downhearted with how she left things back here as she moved to gaze at her own reflection on the glass window.

"How could I have let this happen?"

Spike walked up beside her to assure her otherwise once more. “Come on, Twilight. Princess Celestia gave you an assignment. Nobody could blame you for that."

"But look at the way I left this place. It's a total mess!" She still moved to sadly lean her head against the window. "Just like how I left my friendships."

Kion tried once more to get through to her. “Twilight, I know that you were exactly a social mare when we first met but it doesn’t matter now. You’ve changed for the better and that’s what really matters now.”

“As for someone who knows a thing about being a little anti-social, I can definitely say for sure that’s a fact!” Fuli said with a smirk ignoring the knowing smirks from both Kion and Bunga for her use of the word little. “And regardless of how it turns out we’ll help out on this one. Like always. If it all works well, great! The Princess of Friendship has made some even more friends. If not despite your best efforts, well, that’s their loss."

Both Twilight and Fuli shared a friendly and amused giggle together before the former moved to reply while voicing her determination to make things right.

“Thanks. I've gotta make it up toooo... uh…Minuette, Twinkle…Hearts?…Lemon shine, or….?"

Spike was quick to jog her memory by counting the names with his claws, "Minuette, Twinkleshine, Lemon Hearts, and Moon Dancer."

"Yeah. Them."

Hours later, it was sunrise where the rising sun glowed through the glass windows. Both Spike and Bunga fell asleep on a couple piles of books where they ended up snuggling together. They both ended up waking up when they heard the cheetah’s voice speak to them.

“Spike! Bunga! Come on! We've got work to do! Oh…!" She stifled a giggle when she realized what she just saw. “...when you’re both done, of course.”

“Done what…?” Bunga asked just when they both realized what they fell asleep into.

“AAH!” Spike screamed as they both scrambled away from each other after realizing in horror of the position they were in just seconds ago. “AAAHHH!” He quickly rushed over to the nearest shower in the Canterlot Palace grounds for a quick hot cleansing shower.

Bunga simply shrugged to mask the shock he just felt a second ago. “What’s his deal?”

“Probably because he now stinks.”

“I don’t know why? I smell great!”

Just then Spike quickly rejoined them all while still scrubbing soap around his scales with towels wrapped all over his body. “Yeah right.” He grumbled before asking upon seeing both Twilight and Kion doing a heavy load of research using the library’s resources. “So, have you all been awake all night?”

“Yep.” Twilight nodded as she levitated a scroll and unfolded it. "We did a little research, and I think I know where we can find Minuette! That is one of my friends, right?"

Spike nodded his head before resuming his personal scrubbing for another five seconds before dumping water on his body again and drying himself off completely. Now that he was clean, dry, with a fresh scent on his body he was ready to join the others in assisting Twilight with the reunion of her past Canterlot friends.

Sometime later the five friends stood before the tall building with an hourglass over the doorstep. Even the door was shaped like an hourglass.

“Wow! Perfect timing.” Fuli commented as she couldn’t help but remark on the shape of the house itself.

“Yep.” Kion nodded as he and the others watched as Twilight stepped forward ready for the first step to amending fences as she knocked on the door and patiently waited for her to respond.

“Uh…” Bunga stuttered struggling to find the right words. “…just so you know, it’s not too late to forget I opened my big mouth."

"No, Bunga, I'm glad you opened your big mouth. These ponies have probably been suffering ever since I left. Wondering why their supposed friend would treat them so badly!"

“A little exaggerating if you ask me.” Fuli commented. “I mean if we were talking about just after you became an alicorn, not so much.”

After a few more seconds the door creaked opened slightly but there was no pony appearing from behind the front door. Curious and slightly worried, Twilight peaked her head in slightly, hoping to see it isn’t because she left the door unlocked after leaving.

"Minuette?"

What happened next caught her completely off guard...

"Twilight Sparkle! You old so-and-so! What are you doing here?!" The energetic blue unicorn happily greeted. "Hey, Spike!" Minuette waved at the little dragon before admiring Twilight's new wings. "Look at these wings, huh?!" The unicorn complimented eagerly. She then gasped when she spotted the company they had standing behind them.

"And you two must be the Lion Guard! Kion and Fuli! I've heard so much about you both! About how fierce and fast you both are!”

“That’s us!” Bunga proudly pointed his claws towards his chest. “Protectors of the Pride Lands along with Equestria!”

Minuette happily gasped before rushing over to the honey badger with a high-five hoofbump together. “Bunga! Great to see you again!”

“Pleasure’s all mine, Minuette!”

“Wait…”

“…You two know each other?”

Both Kion and Fuli asked in confusion.

“Of course! He was there at the Royal Canterlot Wedding where after we shared some apple fritters together before the ceremony. I remember we are getting all giddy about party plans and the prince and princess getting married…or…at least before the most evil lion of the Pride Lands came and turned it into what the clumsy zebra would say…”

“Panic and Run!”

The two took turns mimicking Thurston before laughing together at the memory.

“Ah, yes!” Bunga wiped the tears that were forming from his eyes. “Good times together! Good times!”

“It sure was.” Mineutte gasped upon spotting the horn and wings on Kion’s head and body. “Oh my Simba! You got wings too! And a horn! So cool!” She moved to admire them up close similar to what she did with Twilight. “Not only that you’re also a prince!”

“Um, thanks. Always have been. And calling me Kion itself is more than enough.” Kion returned sounding more awkward than humbled given that this is what Pinkie Pie would do in her hoof-steps, although she does have more restraint and a little more common sense and respect towards personal space than the party pony.

Minuette then giggled and levitated a camera from inside her house and gave it to Spike. "Hey, grab a picture of me and the prince and princess, will ya?!" She turned back to Twilight. "I tried to tell my co-workers we used to be friends back when. But they've never believed me!"

Twilight looked at Kion and Fuli who only shrugged their shoulders in response. Spike and Bunga did the same before the former focused the camera so he can take the picture. Minuette gave the cutest smile she could give while both Kion and Twilight smiled casually with each at her side.

"Wait-wait-wait! Really fluff 'em up, huh?"

Both alicorns opened up their wings for the shot and Minuette stretched out her front legs in a happy manner just as the camera flashed.

Twilight blinked rapidly while Kion shook his head so they can properly regain their eyesight. "So what are you doing here? I mean, I know you're here all the time, but you never come to see me. Hey! I just had the greatest idea! You wanna go see Lemon Hearts and Twinkleshine?"

Twilight smiled as she immediately accepted her offer. "Of course! My old friends!"

"It'll be great!" Minuette giggled before leaping up with a single skip as if she were flying, "Come on! Let's fly! Get it?" She laughed while galloping ahead.

“I do!” Bunga laughed before being the first to run alongside her.

"This is perfect! I can apologize to all three of them at once!" Twilight happily expressed to the others.

"Let's hope they're not as traumatized as Minuette." Spike remarked sarcastically.

“Or as energetic as Pinkie Pie and Bunga combined.” Fuli also remarked still blindsided by the whole part where the latter actually got to know the unicorn beforehand. “And how did we not know that?”

“Uh, because we were all busy helping out with the wedding.” Kion reminded.

“Right, that.” Fuli groaned. “Don’t remind me again.”

“I’ll try.” As much as Kion hates relieving their most painful memory to date talking about weddings when said makeup date is on the horizon with a specific date yet to be made.

Said get together happens to be at the local Canterlot Doughnut shop. While Spike, Bunga, and Fuli all sat on one table, Twilight and Kion were both at the table where all of the other girls were and all happily chatting with one another. From the looks of it, they sure didn't seem upset with Twilight for leaving. As a matter of fact, they were happy she came back to the point Twilight was starting to see that her other friends were right about having nothing to worry about. The girls giggled while sharing donuts and Minuette shared more of her funny stories.

"She did! Twinkleshine literally spit out her oats when she heard you were the Princess of Friendship!"

"We saw you at the coronation." Twinkleshine said. "That was some shindig!"

"You did?" Twilight asked as she bit into her donut.

"Sure! We see you all the time!"

"We were even there for Kion’s coronation after the Battle for Pride Rock II and the whole rescue party from the Outsiders." Lemon Hearts added after swallowing the donut she had in her mouth. “Both Equestria and the Pride Lands have never been more together since then."

"So, what else have you girls been doing since I left?" Twilight asked.

"Well, we visited Ponyville from time to time, Lemon Hearts and Twinkleshine have family there too, that's where we met Lyra."

"Lyra Heartstrings? I know her!"

"Oh, yeah! She mentioned you a couple of times. We're always over there visiting her. Or she's coming over here!" Minuette giggled, but Twilight didn’t share the same enthusiasm as her.

"Oh. Really?"

Minuette giggled as she broke her donut in half with her magic. "We've thought about asking you to join us from time to time, but we just sorta figured you'd moved on."

Twilight's head lowered in sadness along with her ears. "Oh."

Briefly awkward silence loomed over the mood of the gathering. Kion too felt rather uneasy about it.

Lemon Hearts then cleared her throat. "So what brings you by anyway? All those times you've come back to Canterlot, you never had donuts with us before."

"Well, uh, you see…" The alicorn sighed as she pressed forward. "I came to apologize."

"For what?" Minuette asked after swallowing another donut.

"Before I left Canterlot, I didn't really appreciate my friends. And that's because I didn't know how important friendship was. But I've learned so much since I moved to Ponyville. I learned what it means to be a good friend and that I certainly wasn't one to the three of you. So for all the pain I caused you, I am truly sorry."

After a few seconds of silence…the whole group of girls erupted into laughter.

“Huh?”

"Sorry, Twilight!" Lemon Hearts apologized once they all calmed down enough to properly explain themselves. "But, for real, you came all the way back here just to apologize for all the times you practically ignored us?"

"Well, yes. I thought you'd be angry at me."

"Well, we were." Twinkleshine admitted. "But, in all honesty, we always had a feeling you didn't want friendship. But we still tried to befriend you anyways."

"We just hated seeing you all alone all the time, so back then we figured you were just shy." Minuette added.

Lemon Hearts spoke next. "Sure, it might've stung a bit when you ran off to Ponyville without saying goodbye, but it's not like we weren't used to that from you already. We realized you didn't want any friends after all, so we stopped trying to force you to be with us."

"But that still didn't mean we didn't like you." Minuette reassured. "Or maybe we figured we just weren't the kind of friends you wanted to have."

"No!" Twilight exclaimed as she shook her head. "That's not true! The three of you are all so wonderful, I was the one who didn't appreciate your efforts. And I'm sorry I didn't try to reconcile with you when you came to Ponyville."

“In all fairness, not all morning patrols last as long as anyone would expect them too, especially when trouble occurs.” Kion interjected in her defense. “Something that’s usually out of our control.”

“Oh, of course.” Minuette understood completely. “You never know when something is going to happen whether it’s a random hyena attack or crocodiles not learning to get along with each other, or an ostrich winds up getting stuck in a hole. Yeah, that’s bound to happen anytime anywhere.”

“Exactly.”

"But it's really good to see you now." Lemon Hearts reassured Twlight that all is good between them now. "Hey!” She then beamed up when an idea came to her head. “Anypony up for a blast from the past?"

The three unicorns then took Twilight and the rest of her friends to a large building, which was closed for the day, because it is currently a weekend. Twilight's eyes gleamed up upon recognizing the place as she peaked into the window, from the classroom inside, the desks, the blackboard, and the beakers and books.

"It's our old science lab! I have so many great memories of this place!"

Both Spike and Bunga got a good look at the place too along with Kion and Fuli.

Minuette then giggled as she recalled. "Remember when Lemon Hearts got her head stuck in that beaker?"

“Really?! How did she do that?!” Bunga chimed in as he along with both Minuette and Twinkleshine giggled while Lemon Hearts glared at them rather annoyed for bringing up what is to her a rather embarrassing memory.

As Twilight keeping looking inside the classroom, the more her past memories of the place started resurfacing as she imagined it like it was in the past when she used to attend the place. Little fillies all unicorns were inside along with a unicorn teacher watching over them. The ponies were either giggling or reading their books, but mostly the former.

As Kion tried to get a good look inside he ended up placing a paw on Twilight’s head in the process of popping his head up taller and by doing so he ended up having a surge of magic go right through his own body causing his eyes to turn white. In a flash, he ended seeing what Twilight’s thinking about when she was a filly attending class at the time.

She recalled one day where she managed to picture Lemon Hearts with her head stuck in the beaker. How she even managed that was a mind blowing question all while Minuette and Twinkleshine chased after the panicking unicorn to try to help pry the beaker off of her head.

Siting on one desk were two little fillies, their noses practically glued onto their books. Once placed down, Twilight immediately recognized the two.

One of the fillies was herself back when she was young and the other was a pony was also someone who had her head buried face first into her book just like the filly beside her.

"But according to this book, you're supposed to add the sodium chloride first." Young Twilight said with a straightforward expression.

The other filly beside her interestingly had a similar mane style as Twilight. Identical actually. The main difference is that this filly had a yellow coat, dark purple eyes and a red mane with purple and gray streaks.

"I read ahead, and to make a proper salt lick, you need to add the molasses first."

"Well, I read ahead too, Moon Dancer, and I'm sure it said sodium chloride first."

Moon Dancer, squinted her eyes only to realize what she was saying. “Oh. I've got the wrong book. That's so hilarious." She replied dryly. The two with the same posture both continued reading their respected books, all while ignoring what the others were doing.

“Kion…” He ended up shaking his head with his eyes returning to normal when he opened them again. “…you okay?”

“Uh, yeah!”

“What did you see?”

“You and the others as fillies being inside the school in the past.” He honestly answered still mind blown that he actually managed to tap into her memories like magic. “Twilight…I…just figured this out. I didn’t mean to…”

Twilight raised a hoof to get him to stop stuttering. “It’s okay. Like I said before it was back when I wasn’t the best friend a pony could ask for and it’s all part of the learning process. Speaking of which…” She then turned to her other pony friends wondering. "…whatever happened to Moon Dancer?"

The three ponies, surprisingly, had their previous upbeat attitude drop like a rock when the name was mentioned. "We just sort of lost touch after you left." Minuette explained sadly, which was new for all of them.

"I think she went to live out by the stadium, didn't she?" Twinkleshine mentioned.

"Well, let's go see." Lemon Hearts suggested while leading the way and the others followed after her.

“So...” Fuli spoke up to Twilight as they walked together along with Kion and Bunga. “…was Moon Dancer a close friend of yours back then?”

“Yes…” Twilight replied rather regretfully. “...but I can’t remember much about her other than bonding over science, magic and books together. To put it short, she was a lot like me when I was younger.”

“I can imagine that.” Fuli commented seeing the similarities already.

“Me too.” Kion commented to himself which happened to be loud enough for the others to hear him. “I mean...just because I can read minds.”

“Apparently.” Fuli replied with a knowing smirk that means he’s just discovered a new power.

Bunga gasped in delight. “You can read minds?! Oh, oh oh…” He quickly rushed over to his best friend. “…read mine! Read mine!” He had the lion place his paw on his forehead which caused his eyes to glow white once more.

When his eyes opened up he saw Bunga’s fantasy of him single-handily punching and kicking the hyenas away all while shouting “Zuka Zuma!” while making his way through the Outlands back to Ponyville. There he finds himself enjoying a chocolate mud bug lava cake Pinkie Pie made for him. All while shoveling it down with his claws.

“Mmm! Mmm! This is so good!”

Bunga allowed Kion to remove his paw which allowed his eyes to stop glowing.

“So, what’s it like?” He eagerly asked.

“Um, very like you Bunga.”

“I know right.” He said rather flattered and excited feeling its all spot on.

“Anyways…” Fuli said deciding its best not to question his fantasy before turning back to Twilight. “…hopefully Moon Dancer is just as forgiving as you and all will be good in no time at all.”

“Hopefully.”

While she does take Fuli’s word for it, she can’t help but feel someway somehow it won’t be as easy as anyone think it may be…

In short time, the group of friends made their way to Moon Dancer's house was by the stadium. But when they got there they found it wasn’t exactly what they were expecting. The cottage itself and the land around it weren’t warm and inviting.

Parts of the house were falling apart, the yard had dried grass and dying flowers, the windows were broken, the only good grass grew from the roof and around parts of the fence. Said fence around it was made out of stone, but with parts of it missing with more growing grass on some parts on them. The ponies made their way towards the door, all while they along with most of the Guard walked behind them and cringed at what they are seeing.

"I think this is the place." Minuette said, "Didn't used to look like this, though."

“Clearly.” Fuli looked on like she stumbled upon something worse than Bunga’s stench. Said honey badger admired the scenery like he could live here if he wanted. “And don’t get too comfortable, Bunga. We’re visiting not staying.” She quickly warned him just when he was about to roll over the grass and stones.

“Aw, man!” He pouted before regrouping with his friends.

Regardless, Moon Dancer is said to still live here, and Twilight was still mindset on patching things up with her. She approached the door, which had a crescent moon on it, and gently knocked on the door. When nothing happened, she knocked a bit harder and louder, before her hoof went right through the door along causing said door to fall over onto the ground surprising her Canterlot friends while she was at it.

“Oops.” Twilight said as a drop of nervous sweat dropped from her forehead.

“Now I see at least one more thing you’re going to have to apologize for.” Bunga commented.

While moving forward to look inside (while staying outside of course) she foud the room itself was dark and messy before gasping when she spotted the familiar pair of eyes she was looking for.

"Moon Dancer?"

"What do you want? I'm trying to study." A very messy and peeved off looking looking unicorn with black glasses and brushy eyebrows wearing a dark purple turtle neck sweater, impatiently demanded.

Both Kion and Fuli were taken aback at the sight of her who looked more like a grumpier and crankier version of Bupu before finding themselves glared at by said pony.

“Uh hi, Moon Dancer.” Kion greeted with a friendly smile and wave even if it was rather awkward as his tone. “How are you today?”

Fuli looked on while trying to mask her cringe-filled feelings. “Did you do anything fun today?”

But Moon Dancer was not interested in whatever they had to say before refocusing her attention towards the alicorn, pony and dragon. "What are you doing here?" She asked still grumpy and aggravated.

"It's us! Your old friends!" Twilight smiled as Minuette, Twinkleshine, Lemon Hearts and Spike gathered together happily. Bunga popped his head into the group gathering.

“Along with one of your new friends, Bunga!”

Moon Dancer however wasn’t interested in any of them before groaning angrily and picking the door back up and then slammed it shut.

“I think you jumped in a little too soon there Bunga.” Fuli commented just when the magic Kion used in an attempt on the background image vanished.

Minuette nervously chuckled. "That's old Moon Dancer, all right. She always did like her books. Hey! Kinda like you used to be, huh?"

Twilight looked like she had just looked herself in the mirror. "Exactly how I used to be."

“Now come on!” Bunga moved to knock on the door calling out to the pony. “That’s no way to treat someone who’s came all the way over here to greet you!”

She poked her head out of the door she slammed open and gave another angry glare at the honey badger. “Yes it is! And if I were you, I’d get out of here before I call the cops on you all!”

“Okay, okay, sheesh…” Bunga said with his hands up in surrender. “…no need to get your sweater in a twist.” He and everyone wisely got off of her property just as she slammed the door once more. But not without Bunga releasing a bubble in the door’s direction. When it popped it released a big burp which caused the door to fall over once more much to everyone’s shock.

“Ooh! My back!”

Everyone all glared at him wondering what the hay he was thinking when he did that.

“What?” Bunga innocently asked. “She had it coming!”

“Still wrong though.” Fuli replied with a disapproving look on her face just when Twilight moved to heal her out of courtesy before they all left her alone before she could press charges against them. At least the healing gave them leeway to ensure of that.

Not wanting to give up on Moon Dancer. She spent the following three days, keeping a close eye on her from afar. Much like during her spying days for Scar since observance is the key of knowing someone better in order to find the best approach to be able to reconcile with her, or in Scar’s case, using said information to defeat his opponent rather than friend.

She had Minuette and Spike for company as they sat at an outside café table while hiding their faces with their menus, silently watching Moon Dancer walk towards the Canterlot Library. Throughout their observing all they saw was the unicorn making her there and nothing else. All without acknowledging anybody and looking on seriously and stoically.

The alicorn and unicorn lowered their menus, revealing that Minuette was wearing green shatter sunglasses with a palm tree and parrot on the sides, Twilight wore casual nonsense black shades, while Spike however wasn't wearing anything over his eyes.

He sighed once he lowered his menu. "Come on, Twilight! We've been watching her for three days! Library, house, library, house. That's it!"

“But there has to be more to it than that.” Twilight replied while taking off her shades. “And looks like I may to try a more closer approach.”

“Huh?” Kion commented clearly confused after having heard that while approaching her with the other two friends. “What?”

“I’m talking about Moon Dancer. Trying to figure of how I can be her friend again.” Upon seeing that Kion is still looking on uncomfortably at her she added. “And I don’t mean being her girlfriend.”

“Oh!” Kion realized in relief and with red flustered cheeks. “I see!”

By her side Fuli chuckled in amusement upon seeing that Kion is still not on board with the idea of loving someone let alone teammates dating someone.

“I take it observing her from afar didn’t yield results?” Fuli asked after calming her personal laughter down.

“Nope.”

“Even after three days, huh?”

“Nope.”

“Not even a friendly greeting?” Bunga hopefully asked.

"No. Nopony looks at her or says hello or even gives her a smile. It's like she doesn't even exist.” She turned to Minuette to ask. “Was she always like this?"

"Well, she always was a little shy. But for a while there, she was really starting to come out of her shell. Remember when she threw that party?" Twilight shrugged while blushing rather embarrassed and grimacing as she is starting to get a pretty good idea of what party it could have been. "Oh, right. I think you might've been busy that day."

“Very likely, yes.” Kion turned towards her curiously wondering what happened that particular day as he looked towards Twilight rather uncertain with what he is now thinking. “Go ahead.”

Once more, Kion gently placed his paw on her forehead. At the same time Fuli and Bunga both shared a curious look before placing their paws on top of both Kion and Twilight without their knowledge, and in a flash, they all recalled the memory from when before Twilight was sent to Ponyville and met the Lion Guard.

Said memory was the moment Twilight came across Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Twinkleshine who all intercepted her on her way back to her private study.

"There you are, Twilight!" Twinkleshine happily greeted. "Moon Dancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come?"

True to her character back then she replied. “Oh, sorry, girls... I've got a lot of studying to catch up on."

She galloped away from them with the following dialogue occurring from out of earshot said back then.

"Doesn't that pony do anything except study?" Lemon Hearts said rather disappointed.

"I think, she's more interested in books than friends."

But that was not the only memory that saw.

Next thing they know they are seeing Fuli, when she is a cheetah springing on ahead with a merrier like smile as she is greeting some friend she knew back then. At the same time she spotted Kion and Bunga when they were young playing their favorite baobab fruit game. They were both having the time of their life like it doesn’t matter whatever differences they have together. Deep down she agreed with their mindset before setting off to meet off with who she is looking for today.

It was a trio of cheetahs that she is very fond of back then.

“Sally, Sassy!”

“Hi Fuli!” The two immediately greeted while wrapping her in a hug together. “How are you!”

“I’m good!” She groaned upon being tightly hugged. “If you both please let me go before you crush me that would be even better! Let go! Let go! Let go!”

Both girls quickly did as she asked of them.

“Oops!”

“Sorry!”

With that settled she then moved to greet the sole male cheetah of the bunch.

“Aazad!”

“Fuli! So good to see you again!”

“Good to see you too! So now that we’re all here…” She said with all eyes focused on her. “…are we all ready to race!”

“Yeah!” The girls both cheered as they quickly raced off ahead towards the Outlands border.

“Hey! No head starts!” Fuli called out to them before turning to Aazad. “Well, their loss!” She shrugged before sprinting off ahead.

“Oh, yeah!” He agreed while quickly running up alongside her.

By quickly running together neck and neck with each other they were able to challenge each other into running their fastest speeds to the point they were able to quickly catch up to the two cheetahs still holding onto a slim lead as they make their way towards Flat Ridge Rock where they all did a quick wide turn away from the incoming gorge.

“Uh-oh.” Sally commented upon getting a small corner peak at her rear view mirror after making the turn. “Time to really get going!” She quickly rushed off ahead to try to put some distance on the two cheetahs catching up to them.

Sassy however had the same idea and ended up keeping close on her tail and made a quick sprint on ahead of her all while cutting her attempted sprint off. Sally had to skid a little in order to avoid crashing into her.

“Hey!” The pony didn’t like being cut off like that before quickly giving a harder effort in order to avoid losing too much momentum. She grunted as she exerted more of her energy just to zigzag by her so she can bump into her in retaliation.

“Excuse me!” She remarked rather offended before using her tail to slap the aggravated cheetah away from her behind.

“Excuse this!” She retaliated again when she bit the cheetah’s tail causing her to screech in pain before being tackled by Sally as the two suddenly got into a fist and paw fight with each other.

They argued and attacked each other so fast there were stars and marks scattered around the dust cloud that formed around them as they pressed on forward together. At the same time, both Fuli and Aazad were quick to make their move as they pressed on ahead of them.

With the lead now in the rightful paws the two leaders were now neck and neck nosing their way on by the other Pride Lander’s grazing grounds as they worked their way back up to where they started. As they zigzagged by the other Pride Landers they were very careful not to crash into them all using the open paths with very few times they dared to use the narrow opening to gain an advantage on each other. It was close.

Now came the finish line straight in front of them, still nose to nose as they charged down the last straightaway. It’s going to be very close. As they crossed the marked line in the grass and dirt, Fuli wins by a nose, Aazad in second.

“Yes!” Fuli stated victoriously as Aazad looks on with a look of respect.

Deep down he couldn’t help but be a little envious of her. While they both have shared victories in the past, Fuli however had the slight edge on him. But never the less, he was still a good sport about.

“Nice job!” He complimented just when the two had what seemed really liking each other a lot lately.

But just when their eyes towards each other were getting filled with roses and hearts they little moment was interrupted was when both Sassy and Sally came in tied for third, or more accurately last place just minutes later. And needless to say both cheetahs were not happy with each other.

“What the heck?!” Sassy complained as she rubbed the pain on where Sally bit her tail. “Tailbones are very sensitive!”

“Sensitive?! Says the cheetah who was literally right in front of me?! What were you doing trying to give me tail kisses?! Cause I ain’t your girlfriend, remember?!”

“Oh I’m sorry! Did try to flirt with you back there because last time I checked I wasn’t the one who started that fight?!”

“Me?! You cut right in front of me!”

“Didn’t mean to but it is technically a legal racing maneuver.”

“Is not!”

“Is too!”

“Is not!”

“Is too!”

Fuli groaned before using her tail so she can give a proper whistle to shut them up.

“Enough!”

They immediately stopped in their tracks as they find both Fuli and Aazad both looking on very annoyed and frustrated with them.

“Regardless of how clean you raced it, the number one rule of racing is to have fun! And thanks to you two I can’t even fully enjoy my victory nor can Aazad!”

“Unbelievable!” Aazad stormed off while Fuli followed after them leaving the two girls to continue their bickering over who’s fault it was…again.

Kion removed his paw from Twilight’s head, who likewise was felt looking down in shame like it was worse than her betrayal of Equestria and the Pride Lands. The party must have meant so much to Moon Dancer, to the point she unwittingly crushed her glimmer of brightness without realizing it just when she was considering to embrace friendship.

At the same time, Fuli was also just looking off into deep space like she just realized something. Truthfully she was left stunned of how the similarities between her and Twilight are. Yet at the same time she was left wondering why she saw it on what it has to do with her problem with Moon Dancer.

Kion after seeing this couldn’t help but wonder more about her too since this was clearly getting to her inside. More importantly what does it mean for her?

"Thought she finally might be letting her guard down a little with that party." Minuette said, shaking the girls from their shocked state of mind. "We invited her out a few times after that. But she was always too busy studying. So, eventually, we just stopped asking."

"I had no idea that party was so important to her." Twilight commented while still feeling guilty but still determined to make things right as she pounded her hoof on the table. "I've gotta find a way to make it up to her!"

The princess entered the library and spotted Moon Dancer sitting alone, taking notes from various books. So, she went with her first approach to try to get to talk to her, by being casual.

She moved to walk behind her by pretending to not notice her at first, until she quietly gasped and feigned her surprise. "Oh, my gosh! Moon Dancer?! Is that you!" She tried to usher in a whisper.

"Shh!"

But of course that happened to be too loud in a library as Twilight was ordered to be quiet by the visitors and librarian. She quickly sped away before it could get worse for her.

So with that failed she decided she needed to try another approach. Something a little more direct.

She later snuck up from behind, who tried her best to ignore her in response as the former’s horn glowed when she opened her mouth to speak.

"Moon Dancer, can I talk to you for a min—"

"Shh!" But Moon Dancer realized that the alicorn had created a force field around them so nopony else could hear them. "What is this?"

"Eh, a bubble of silence. Anyways, I haven't seen you in a while and I thought it might be nice to catch up."

"For what purpose?" She irritably asked with her face still buried in her own book.

"You know, 'cause we're friends. And I know I wasn't always the best one to you, so I thought that---" Before she could finish, Moon Dancer used her own magic to break the bubble of silence, and the popping noise caused the other ponies to "Shhh!" Twilight again.

Now that left her to go to Plan C.

Later, Moon Dancer got up from her table and towards a nearby bookshelf to levitate herself a new book from a shelf, only to see Twilight again from where she pulled it. She was really trying her hardest to get to talk to her.

"I'm really sorry to bother you. I was just hoping we would go outside and talk for a bit."

Moon Dancer curtly placed the book back onto the shelf to shield Twilight's face from her view. So with that approach not getting through to her, she is now left trying to find a new approach to allow her to explain herself. Something a little more that appeals to her interests.

Back at her table, Moon Dancer used her magic to turn the pages of the book, only to see a strangely similar image of Twilight…which started to move and talk to her.

"I'm sorry I skipped your party." The image whispered, causing Moon Dancer to scream rather startled.

"AH!"

The other ponies, "shhh!" at her for once causing Moon Dancer growl at the image in the book, whispering back at it rather annoyed as hay at this point. "Why won't you leave me alone? I'm trying to study! You've got the wrong pony! I don't have parties!"

"You did once." Twilight whispered back. "And I was so caught up in my own studying that I didn't take your feelings into account."

"Look, Twilight Twinkle—"

"Sparkle."

"Whatever! I just need to be alone so I can study without some crazy pony trying to make friends, all right?!"

At this point, seeing that she isn’t going to listen to reason, she decided it was best to turn her back on her. "Fine!" Twilight started walking away, until Moon Dancer stopped her.

"Wait. How did you get into my book like that?"

Twilight smiled in return triumphantly. Her plan worked wonders.

From there Twilight was finally able to get Moon Dancer to talk. The two old friends walked along the grassy fields of Canterlot and over the bridge while Twilight explained to Moon Dancer what she did earlier in the library.

"I've been studying a new studying technique. I can only do it for a few minutes, but you'd be amazed how much you can pick up when you're actually in a book!"

"It's one of Hayscartes' methods." Moon Dancer commented.

"You know Hayscartes?"

"Of course! He's a genius!"

"I have a copy of his Treatise on Ponies, you know."

"Really?!"

“Yep! Back at a place I used to call home before moving to Ponyville. And that was before forming the first ever Pony Guard alongside the newest Lion Guard”

“No way!”

"Oh it’s true! I even have the whole history from the Pride Lands past right down to the first formation of the original Lion Guard.”

“Wow!”

“Yeah! Quite a lot of adventure and thrills from going out on patrol! Quite a lot of stories to tell that I’ve handwritten myself.”

“Sweet Celestia!”

“I know! A new world with new exciting places to see and learn more about, something that you could never ask for.”

“More than studying books in a library!”

“Yep!”

“Wow!”

“I know right! Amazing what popping your head out of your books can do to you if you try something new for a change.”

“I guess.”

“I mean it was pretty hard stepping out of my comfort zone at first, but after giving it a try I found a new passion in life. Being able to protect not only one but two kingdoms with friends I’d never imagined ever having.”

“I never would have imagined of how great the Pride Lands sounds or even what it looks like.”

“Well it’s never too late to start exploring and learning about it. All it takes is one walk through a magical portal just outside of town and the magic and wonders of the Pride Lands are there for you to see.”

Moon Dancer really started to consider it, from what she’s been told about the Pride Lands it sure sounds like a great place to explore. It was starting to sound like something worth more than living in isolation from the rest of the world in favor of studying.

“From the looks of it, you sure sound like you had quite a life changing experience.” Moon Dancer commented while eying the scar over her left eye. But she truthfully wasn’t sure if she should ask why she has it. “I can definitely see it now.”

“That’s good.” Twilight calmly replied as she took notice of what she was really eyeing at before leading the way once more. “And now for something that I know you’ll really like."

Twilight then led Moon Dancer to her old home and showed her, her old library. This place was like everything Moon Dancer could ever want in life.

"What is this place?"

"This is where I used to live. This library used to be my one and only sanctuary. I never really shared it with anypony else." She said the last part rather regretfully.

Moon Dancer spotted a familiar book on a nearby shelf. "Wow! A first edition of Principles of Magic! Hey, didn't I give this to you?"

Twilight hardly remembered that but once she did it had her cringinge. "Maybe?"

Moon Dancer opened the pages with her magic, "I did! Look, I even wrote something! "To my friend, Twilight Sparkle. Thanks for introducing me to the classics." I can see by the fact that you left it here that it meant a lot to you." She said rather sarcastically before placing the book back onto the shelf.

Just when things were going so well it seemed it all got undone in an instant. But Twilight was quick to keep it from happening.

"Look, I didn't bring you over here for even more poignant reminders of what a bad friend I was. I brought you here to give you this." She levitated golden key with an hourglass shaped handle for Moon Dancer. "You can come here whenever you want and study to your heart's content."

"Really?"

The unicorn was left speechless in response to this generous gift she was given. It was like nopony had ever opened up her heart to her ever. She graciously accepted the key, levitating it with her own magic while adjusting her glasses.

"But first, you've gotta do something for me."

"What?" Moon Dancer eyed her suspiciously expecting the catch out of it.

"Have dinner with our old friends tonight. I made reservations at the best restaurant in Canterlot. What do you say?"

Moon Dancer dropped the key and instantly turned away. "I can't. I'm reorganizing my biology scrolls."

"I've been spending a lot of time with Minuette, Twinkleshine, and Lemon Hearts since I've been back. They really miss you."

"Look! I already told you! The last thing I need is a bunch of ridiculous friend-making keeping me from studying!"

Even still, Moon Dancer didn't want to continue pursing friendship. She was sounding even more like how Twilight used, expect even grumpier and emotionless. No matter what she has tried so far it made zero progesss in getting through to her. In order to stop everything that has happened from being undone she quickly intercepted the unicorn before she could leave through the front door.

"Moon Dancer, wait! A wise pony once taught me that there's more to life than dusty old books!"

"I tried friendship and it's just not for me. Now, if you'll excuse me…"

Twilight now had to think of something quick, so she tried appealing to her interests once more.

"What if I taught you Hayscartes' method?"

Thankfully and as she predicted, Moon Dancer stopped in her tracks ready to accept the offer thinking she go out for just one dinner together.

Twilight, Moon Dancer, Twinkleshine, Minuette, Lemon Hearts and Spike all sat together in a single large table near a window, with Kion, Fuli, and Bunga all sitting alongside them. The get together itself was somewhat awkward given that this is the first time the unicorns have spoken to Moon Dancer in a long time. Given that she is still looking on with a disinterested frown, it was hard to find the right words to appeal to her to a good dinner conversation going. So Minuette the most vocal of the group spoke first.

"So, uh, what are you studying these days?"

"Science, magic, history, economics, pottery, human world history, engineering. Things like that."

"Yowza! You planning on being a professor or something?"

"So you’re just...studying."

“You know…” Kion spoke up trying to spark up the conversation a little more. “…we’re always open to giving you a tour of the Pride Lands. You’ll get to see more of the Pride Lands…”

“Go on patrol!” Bunga chimed in.

“...met new friends, new animals…”

“Meet the Lion and Pony Guard!”

“…and get meet to my mom and dad…”

“The king and queen!”

“…It’s a really nice place for you to get see for yourself.”

“Plus You get to take down big and mean bad guys while you’re at it! And it’s Bunga-veilablely awesome!”

But so far, Moon Dancer still wasn’t up for it. Deep down, she was, but she was really against the idea of making friends whether it’s ponies, animals, or anyone.

“Can I go now?”

“Moon Dancer, please!” Twilight insisted.

"It's all right, Twilight." Minuette kindly assured. "We're having a good time. Right, everypony?"

Twinkleshine simply shrugged, unsure whether to answer yes honestly, while Lemon Hearts chuckled nervously. Minuette then tried to start another topic of conversation.

"So, uh... Spike, tell Moon Dancer that story 'bout how Twilight had to read a book about doing a sleepover!"

Spike swallowed his food and inhaled to speak, but was stopped by Moon Dancer before he could get a word out. "Slumber 101? I've read that."

Twilight chuckled nervously in response, "Oh! Really? Well, uh, did you know Lemon Hearts here works at the Canterlot palace?"

"Uh, yeah. It's true. I do the big events mostly. State dinners, that sort of thing."

The conversation when briefly silent as cricket noises were heard.

“Bunga!” Fuli turned to him with narrowed eyes.

The honey badger opened his mouth and then crunched the cricket with his teeth before gulping it down. “Ah, thanks. How did that get there…? Oh, wait!” He spotted the nearby window where there was a close tree branch hanging by it. “…Never mind.”

An awkward silence loomed over them, and Fuli tried to pitch in. "You know…slumber parties are a lot of fun. In fact, I was there when me and Twilight had our first sleepover together. It was pretty fun, actually."

“And let me guess, you invited two more friends, a tomboy and girly girl, who constantly got on each other’s nerves to the point slumber parties were no longer fun and you gave up on friendship?”

Fuli blinked in surprise of how accurate she read her mind along with Twilight. “Uh, close. And, no.” She then thought to herself as she whispered to Twilight. “Wow, this girl’s hard.”

It was clear by this point that this attempt at a get together isn’t working out. In fact, Moon Dancer decided she had enough before angrily groaning and made her way towards the exit all while a certain light purple coated unicorn watches on at the former attentively.

Twilight teleported herself outside, calling out to her. "Moon Dancer!" When she didn't stop, Twilight teleported herself in front of the unicorn, so she can stop her in her tracks. "You've gotta give friendship a chance!"

Using her own magic, Moon Dancer levitated Twilight out of the way, "Dah! I gave friendship a chance a long time ago! It didn't work out then – it isn't gonna work out now!"

Twilight could only look on heartbroken before walking off away from the restaurant upon seeing that every one of her attempts to get through to her as failed. All of her friends ran outside to check up on her but the now emotionless alicorn wasn’t in the mood to talk.

Kion’s concerned focus was briefly distracted when the waiter handed him the bill for the meal. “Ugh, just bill me.” He said before he, Spike, and Fuli all pursed her.

Later that night, the three all finally managed to catch up to her out in the courtyard where Moon Dancer once had her party.

Kion was the first to approach her. "Twilight, are you all right?"

"No. No, I'm not. I really messed this one up. That party was everything to her. I can only imagine what it must've felt like when I didn't show up."

“Probably not good for her.” Fuli commented with no way of saying it any better with two pairs of eyes directed at her in response. “I know that for a fact.”

“How so?” Kion curiously asked.

“Remember that sleepover I had with Twilight, Applejack, and Rarity?”

“Yes?”

“Well I never told anyone but her this, but long story short is that I had some friends I once had that constantly argued like Applejack and Rarity and they managed to drive another friend I once had away from home. A close friend.”

“How close?” Spike curiously asked. A brief moment of silence made it clear. “Sorry. Shouldn’t have asked. Stupid question.” He apologized after realizing it was too personal.

“No it wasn’t.” Fuli shook her head taking no offense but still firm that it should not be pressed up further. “Anyways Twilight, I have a pretty good idea of how she feels right now. Now, we just need to figure out how to make this right and what better way than the place where it all started.”

She turned to the garden before facing the others again. “Go ahead!”

Once Kion placed his paw on Twilight’s head, both Fuli and Spike followed suit by placing their paw and hand on top of them so they can see what had happened back then.

After the expected flash had occurred, the four find themselves looking on at the court yard where back then it was daylight. There they saw Moon Dancer, preparing the snacks and punch bowls for the party. Back then her hair was much cleaner and neater similar to Twilight’s nowadays while still sporting her glasses, but also without her turtle neck sweater. Also she looked so much happier as she got the preparations all put together, all without burying her face into a book.

Seeing this had Fuli feel more of the striking similarities of herself in them, to her it was like she was once more seeing a time where her heart was in a brighter place. A time when she was genuinely much happier. And Moon Dancer was equally happy when Minuette, Twinkleshine and Lemon Hearts all arrived.

“Hey, Moon Dancer!" Minuette was the first to happily greet her. "Look at this spread, huh?"

"Thank you so much for coming!" She happily returned on par with Minuette.

"Of course. We wouldn't miss one of our best friends' parties." Twinkleshine happily added as she and the others placed the gifts onto the table.

"Is Twilight coming?" Moon Dancer asking hopeful and excited at the thought already. She’s been really hoping that this would be the day she would return the favor she did for her in kind. The day she hopes to make great friends with the whole crew here together.

The three unicorns didn't reply. They couldn’t find it in themselves to say “no.” and hurt her feelings and break her heart. But the silent response was enough to confirm to her that Twilight.

"Oh. Okay."

"Hey, we'll still have fun, right?"

"Sure…" The now disheartened unicorn stared to walk away from the scene all while catching a glimpse of said unicorn she invited already on her way on a chariot to Ponyville.

“I can’t believe this…” Moon Dancer said to herself as she started to cry. “…she didn’t show up. And I didn’t even get to say goodbye. After what I did for her!”

The flashback scene ended as Twilight could only look on feeling ashamed of herself upon seeing just how hurt Moon Dancer was, especially after the fact she really was counting on her to show up.

“So that was it!” Twilight quietly said to herself in realization.

“What was it?” Kion asked as Twilight looks on at the moon above them.

“Magic Kindergarten. After the last day before moving on to the first grade she gave me the benefit of the doubt and helped me recover from the traumatic experience. She was the first pony who comforted me after the humiliation and cruelty I suffered on the first worst day of my life. Ever since then, I haven’t found a way to return the favor to her as thanks for pulling my head out of my first lowest point in life. That party was just the thing to do the job, and I wasn’t there for it. I could have been there for her, but I didn’t."

At that moment Celestia who just happened to be flying back spotted and overheard their conversation before deciding to fly in on it correctly sensing that she is truly in doubt given that she is now the Princess of the Friendship who’s supposed to teach every pony a thing or two about friendship.

“Wasn’t there for who, Twilight?”

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight stammered in stuttered shock upon seeing her unexpectedly. “Well, that depends.”

“On what?”

“How long you’ve around and how much you heard.”

“Long enough to hear every word you said. And I assure you I understand what you’re going through.”

“How so?”

“Because the relationship with my sister Luna is just the same.” She recalled the day after the ceremony commemorating her return along with the formation of the Lion and Pony Guard. “Back when you and the others managed to take down her Nightmare Moon form she spent up until the Elephants concert recuperating from her defeat as she felt too ashamed of herself to even face anyone outside of the castle. She spent all of the time cooped up in the castle until I encouraged Ma Tembo and the herd to have her concert honor my sister too just when she was regaining the magic she lost during her recovery.” Through the time Celestia watched as the magic sparkle in Luna’s mane and tail grew stronger to it’s current standing all while feeding and nursing her back to health in her bed through the following weeks up until the Grand Galloping Gala. “It wasn’t only until the events of Nightmare Night did I come to see the insensitive side of the holiday which I will have to make sure things are properly adjusted for the next time that happens.”

“Right, of course. I told you.”

“Yes. But it was actually a good thing you there for her because not only would Nightmare Night would have been canceled but it also allowed her to see the joys the holiday brings along with most importantly her faith in friendship with the ponies in Ponyville.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Reminds me, of a filly I knew when something similar and unfortunate happened to her.”

Twilight looked on and up wordlessly knows that she is referring to Twilight just after the magic kindergarten incident. Upon getting the idea and seeing that there is more to be seen for the truth in her words to be believed everyone all place hands on Twilight’s forehead again after Kion placed his on Twilight’s.

When the flash of blinding light cleared up, they find themselves appearing inside the school where Twilight and the other unicorns attended. When they were looking around the place, they spotted what they were looking for, and it was a familiar and saddening sight. Twilight Sparkle as a young filly with a downcast expression like she every ounce of happiness drained out of her making her way to her first day of the first grade.

Deep down she was never really excited about coming here after how her last day of school before summer break turned out and for a good reason. But she still found herself pressing forward courtesy of her family’s encouragement. Given that she is still depressed and sullen over the traumatic event, she has been escorted and accompanied by her brother and her foal-sitter.

They both insisted that she still press forward only managing to get her to go by appealing to her love to magic but given the concerns looks they gave each other along to Twilight it was pretty clear that Fanco’s betrayal really hurt her. Deep down she is afraid she might get hurt again whether it’s another bully or someone trying to one up her.

“Doing okay, Twily?” Her older brother asked.

“Yeah, I guess.” She replied still not paying attention to him.

“Uh…” Shining rubbed the back of his neck as he struggled to try to say something that’ll actually help her look forward to school going forward. “…while I have to go to cadet training later today, Cadance however will be around to chaperone you all around until you are feeling better. Doesn’t it sound nice that Celestia’s got some of the royal guards to watch over in case something goes wrong?”

“Yes.” Even still it failed to cheer up her along with feeling that other students will use this as further ammunition against her just because she’s the princesses protégé.

“Oh boy…” Shining muttered so that only Cadance can hear it.

“Maybe we shouldn’t have tried to bring her here.” Cadance whispered feeling they may have forced it upon her.

“I know. But we really couldn’t let her continue letting her grieve and feel isolated from the world and in her room. The princess would have wanted her to be able to move on.”

“But there is a thing called pushing things along too soon and that’s exactly what we’re doing. Heartbreak like this takes much longer than broken friendship.”

Shining Armor upon sharing a knowing and heartfelt look knows full well that she is right too, but really wishes he can do more other than their usual brother and sister bonding to get her to come out of her room more. Even brother love hasn’t done enough to snap her out of her funk.

“Okay. We’ll give it one day and if it doesn’t work out we’ll settle for her having private lessons with the princess.”

“Sounds good to me.”

“That I can live with.” Twilight spoke in agreement with one of her ears perked up along with startling the two teen ponies. “And yes, I heard.” Just then the school bell is heard just as they are approaching the school doors with Twilight moving on ahead with the sole purpose of just getting through the day all without having anything to do with friendship at all. “Well, let’s get this over with.”

With nothing else to say, Shining moved to head on over so he can attend his training with the Royal Guard but not without giving the mare a kiss on the cheek. “Let me know how it goes.”

“Of course, Shining Armor. Have a good day with the other cadets.”

“Thank you.”

With that said and done the two ponies went their separate ways for the rest of the day with the pink pony following after Twilight.

Classes went on as usual with fillies all getting along swimmingly by happily chatting with one another. All expect for Twilight who settled for sitting in the back of the class being nothing but quiet and listening to her teachers with Celestia included much to the latter’s concern. It even continued through lunch, where the lavender coated filly preferred to sit by herself.

“How is she?” Celestia asked her niece who passed her at the head table.

Cadance sighed as she truthfully replied. “Not too good. She’s been doing her assignments but that was it. Not a word all day. Not even in your class.”

“I know.” She sighed sadly as she looks on at her miserable student’s direction who moved to eat the quesadilla on her tray without disgust or fear. “And with the way things are going she’s never going to want to set foot in this school after today.”

“I just wish there was some way we can help her emotionally recover from this without feeling she’s forced into it.”

Celestia tapped her chin as she tried to think of a way to help Twilight take the first steps to recovering from her depression. She looked around the room of chattering fillies more spotting a group of ponies she recognized from earlier.

And that’s where she got an idea. “I think I might know the group up for the task.” She said with a confident smile.

The next class after lunch she is teaching with the sun monarch herself had a new and special assignment for her students all while Cadance sat in the corner to observe from afar and right behind Twilight.

“Okay, students. Today we are going to conduct a class experiment together as we work our wonders in growing plants together.” She said with a happy and encouraging smile. The students all expect for Twilight looked on very excited about the assignment as they all chattered happily about the idea. “For this project we’re going to do this in group pairs of two, so decide amongst yourselves who you want to pair with.”

Many students wasted no time in grouping up, and many fillies have decided who they wanted to pair up with all but one decided. One that hasn’t is because said group is short one pony. No guesses, who that pony is as said pony didn’t move from her seat at all with Moon Dancer sitting at a lone table.

“Twilight…”

“Do I have to?” She replied without a change in movement and expression.

That’s where Cadance stepped in. “Please Twilight, this group needs another pony. A pony who can really know how to calculate and measure to make sure the chemicals needed for this experiment are accurate, calculated, and well-measured. Not to mention it’s a graded project where student of the day gets to learn an advanced spell of magic.”

Twilight’s ears perked up even when she didn’t smile. “Okay.” She moved to join Moon Dancer with their table sitting beside the tables where Minuette and Lemon Hearts, along with Twinkleshine and another pony.

“Okay...” Celestia said now pleased that even Twilight is at least cooperating here. “Now…once we get our safety goggles we are going to create this one of a kind plant using these chemicals.” She points to the written down elements on the chalkboard which detail the step by step instructions. “It is important to make sure you follow the instructions precisely in order to get the best results so be careful everypony and you may begin.”

The groups all got to work on their experiments immediately, with some fillies who don’t quite understand how to properly mix up the chemicals correctly eyeing them with uncertainty and unsure expressions. Clearly this is advanced compounds and materials they are working with. So naturally, a handful of kids were hesitant to want to mix the chemicals off of fear of blowing the school rooftop off.

“So…Twilight…” Young Minuette spoke up trying to get Twilight involved in this experiment hoping that she could clue them in on how to conduct this experiment. “…any idea of how these work?”

“Hmm…” Twilight thought as she examined the chemicals along with Moon Dancer. Judging from how she handled the many colors given to work with, it was no brainer for her to figure out what should be mixed together, all without another word. In a few seconds, the plant she grew was a nice beautiful pink rose all while the watching ponies all looked on amazed at what she just created.

“Wow!”

“Pretty!”

“So beautiful!”

“Remarkable!”

The four standing beside her complimented.

The other students so impressed that they are all eagerly seeking to learn how to do that too with the sole exception of Moon Dancer who had respect for the pony’s personal space.

“How do you do it?!”

“Can you teach me how do you it?!”

“What chemicals do I mix?!”

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” Twilight insisted as she used her magic to mix up a concoction ready to use if they start swarming all over her. “Don’t even think about it!”

Moon Dancer quickly stepped up in her defense. “Trust me! You don’t want to do that! If she can send a group of bullies flying away, that I’m sure she can disappear or explode something in an instant.”

“Sorry!” The kids quickly realized and recalled the last day of school incident and quickly backed off with a mix of fear and regret for overstepping their bounds.

“Please?” Lemon Hearts asked with buttoned up eyes along with the other two ponies.

“Maybe...if you try one at a time along with not trying any tricks on me, I might consider it.” She spoke rather reluctant yet willing to help.

“I won’t.” Moon Dancer was the first to promise her with Minuette, Twinkleshine, and Lemon Hearts all.

“So will I, Twilight.”

“Me too!”

“Me three!”

Seeing this Celestia winked at Cadance who sent sparks of magic towards her heart to give Twilight the firm push she needs to open her heart up to them.

“Hmm…” She thought before smiling and levitating the equipment so she can show them first of how it works. “…if you all watch and learn, then yes.”

As she slowly shows them the chemicals and teaches them about how to combine them, one pony decided to play with the chemicals instead of watching her.

“So Twilight, what happens when I mix these together…”

Upon taking notice of it, Twilight eyes suddenly widen in alarm. “No, don’t!”

But it was too late, before anything else, the school rooftop suddenly exploded with the entire classroom being covered in sooth and ashes with smoke floating up to the sky.

Fortunately, Princess Celestia was able to quickly undo the mess in one instant flash of magic, and just like that everything and everyone aside from the exploded beaker (which somehow landed on Lemon Heart’s head) was instantly repaired. And when that happened everyone all shared a good laugh about it.

After the flashback scene ended, Twilight would end up smiling as she remembered what Moon Dancer did that really uplifted her spirit that day. Even though it wasn’t until the formation of the Lion and Pony Guard that she finally got warmed back up to friendship once more, it was definitely the day she needed to get out of the depressed state she was in for the past three months.

“While it’s true your story didn’t not have a happy beginning, but that does not make you who you are. It is the rest of your story who you choose to be and I know for certainty that it is the pony who became the Princess of Friendship.”

Fuli really could relate to both ponies right now while the best Kion could do was place a comforting paw on her shoulder on both her and Twilight.

"For what’s it’s worth, you’re doing your best to make things right.” Kion further assured. “And that’s what really matters.”

“Really?”

“Absolutely! If I can forgive you when you were at your worst, I think Moon Dancer can do the same.”

“That is true.” She thought. Back when she was at her worst and about to commit an unforgivable sin, he put his paw forward to forgive and apologize to her at one of her darkest hours. She then smiled once again readopting that newfound determination to continue trying to make things right. “I know what I need to do. And I know just who can help me."

Celestia watching on nods in approval glad they had this conversation together.

The following morning, Minuette knocked on the door of Twilight's old tower, where Fuli and Bunga opened the door.

“Hey Minuette! What's up?" Bunga greeted.

“I just wanted to see if Twilight’s still around. I hope she didn’t already go back to Ponyville again too soon.

Fuli smiled as she assured otherwise as they walked down the stairs together. “Oh, I wouldn’t get your hopes up on that.”

Minuette was now confused of what she meant by that. “Why?”

“Well…” She said as she stepped to the side when they heard a familiar voice coming from up above.

"Wheeeeeeeee!"

Twilight was flying at top speed, carrying Pinkie Pie on her back, who was sitting backwards, while Spike hung onto her tail. Everyone went rushed outside where they would greet both the arriving alicorn and passengers just when Kion flew up to them.

With a flick of her tail, she threw Spike to Kion before moving to go in for a circular landing onto the courtyard since Pinkie thought it would be a good idea to try to steer her like an airplane. Sure she can fly with passengers on her back, but with Pinkie trying to steer her wings, that kind of makes it difficult. But thankfully, she able was steer clear of a crash landing but not without digging her hooks into the ground to the point she made a burrow into the ground.

All four legs were all buried as they all came to a complete stop. Just as she climbed up, Pinkie happily sprung up onto the ground and off of Twilight’s back just when the others regrouped with them at the courtyard.

"That was awesome!" Pinkie's tail began spinning around like a propeller which lifted her up to fly for a bit. "We gotta go flying more often, Twilight!"

"There you are!" Minuette laughed and greeted in excitement. "I thought you threw in the old towel and headed home!"

"I did head home. But not to throw in the towel. I went to get my secret weapon." She began introducing both ponies to each other. "Minuette, meet—"

"Hey! Pinkie Pie!"

"Hi, Minuette!" The two ponies happily hugged each other, catching Twilight off guard once more. "Twilight, you didn't say Minuette would be here!"

"You two know each other?"

"Oh, sure! She was one of Cadance's bridesmaids! We hang out all the time when she's in Ponyville! Didn't you know that? Ha! And you call yourself the Princess of Friendship!"

“Well she does now.” Fuli reminded in her defense before muttering to Twilight. “Am I the only one who finds it weird that only Pinkie and Bunga know her and we don’t?”

Twilght shook her head. “Nope.”

Pinkie turned her attention back to Minuette, now dawning her serious game face. "Twilight briefed me on the way here. We'll need fifteen bags of confetti and as many hooves as we can get."

Minuette happily galloped ahead. "Let's go! We can pass by the donut place on the way!"

"And what are we gonna do?" Spike asked Twilight who had her faith placed in the party pony to trust to know what she is doing before leading them away to carry out their part of the plan.

"Just come with me. This alicorn's in the zone!"

Moon Dancer was just leaving the library when she saw the most out of ordinary thing she could ever come across. A book. Just laying there on the ground. Right in front of her. She leaned in to get a look at the title which intrigued her interest.

"Ooh! A Brief History of the Wagon Harness!" Naturally to her she picked it up to read when she gets home, right before finding another book on the ground. "The Life and Times of Morari the Maneless?"

As if it hasn’t gotten any better she found that there is a whole trail of books laying on the ground right in front of her, all formed into a path for her to follow. She immediately and correctly suspected Twilight to behind this. She would want to leave…if it weren’t for these books all just sitting there tempting her to read them. So she takes up the bait and starts picking up each and every book to start following the trail she is expected to go.

By the time she picked up every book on the trail she now had two large stacks of books on her back all carried and leveled sturdy with her magic. But she gasped and dropped them when saw something that really startled her.

It was literally a blast from the past with what she saw in the courtyard she just arrived at. Something very familiar, only with more streamers, decorations and even more assortments of treats. Her old friends, and Twilight's new ones were there as well along with Twilight herself, all wearing party hats.

"What is this?"

"It's a party. For you." Twilight happily said as she and the others gathered around Moon Dancer. Spike pushed over a wagon with a large cake on it, from which Pinkie Pie jumped out off, starling the unicorn.

"Surprise!"

The pink pony placed both a party hat and party whistle onto Moon Dancer, who’s surprise still didn’t register a smile.

"Come on in!" Twilight encouraged of her to join in the fun, but Moon Dancer only spit the whistle out of her mouth and used her magic to crumple the paper party hat in response.

"Thanks but no thanks. I don't do parties." She tried to leave only to be stopped when Twilight teleported herself in front of her.

"I know. And it's my fault. Back when we were in school together, you invited me to a party. I was so focused on my studies that I didn't show up."

"Big deal!" The unicorn still remained unconvinced as evident when she rolled her eyes.

"It was a big deal. When you started spending time with the other ponies I felt left out. I didn't think we shared the same interests anymore. I was to proud back then to admit I how wrong I was. And now that I realize how important friendship is, I'd like to make up for my mistake with a new party. A party in honor of my friend Moon Dancer!" She levitated a wooden bat for Moon Dancer to hit the piñata with.

"Please, you've got to let me make this up to you."

Moon Dancer rolled her eyes again before levitating the bat, aiming to hit the piñata, imaging it as Twilight’s head.

"And you think this is gonna do it, huh?"

"Uh, I'm hoping?"

"Well, sure, why wouldn't it? That was only the first time I put myself out there, and then you didn't even bother to show up!" She moved to levitate and wave the bat at Twilight like she is going to hit her with it. "Then you left town without saying goodbye even though we were supposed to be friends! Friends that helped each other when during a very tough situation."

"I know, and I should have told you. I realize that now and--"

"Now?! It took you all this time to figure it out?! When I found out you went to Ponyville to make new friends I was humiliated! I felt like I wasn't important! I never wanted to let myself be hurt like that again! And then, you become "princess of friendship". You! A pony who avoided friendships like a plague! I was the one who tried to make friends, not you! I was the one who wanted to open up, not you! And now, you get all the glory, all the attention, and you never once cared about me again! Nor did you once return the favor that you owe me!" She pointed her bat towards Minuette, Twinkleshine and Lemon Hearts. "Those three finally convinced me that I had value! That other ponies might like me and want to be my friend! And you! Didn't! Show! Up!"

Moon Dancer threw the bat aside and broke down in tears all while covering her face with her hooves. She had just unloaded her true feelings, it really got to Twilight who came to see how much she’s been seeing how one-sided she’s been in regards to their friendship up to this point.

Pinkie Pie whispered into Spike's ear and the little dragon quickly hurried off to do his job. Twilight moved to place her hoof over Moon Dancer's shoulder, while she continued to cry on the grass.

"You're right. This party can't make up for the way I hurt you and I can't change anything that happened. But please, don't let my mistake be the reason you can't be friends with anypony else."

Moon Dancer stood up just as Minuette, Twinkleshine and Lemon Hearts walked up to her looking on very supportive of her.

"We were your friends then…” Minuette said. “…and we'd be honored to be your friends now."

Hearing that had Moon Dancer have a heartfelt realization. A realization that she had ponies who did truly look out for her. They always have even she didn’t fully embrace friendship. As she wiped the tears away she saw Kion smiling and gesturing to three more ponies who have all just arrived to the party. All of them were unicorns that she recognized. An elderly one, a young one, and someone that looked roughly about her age but older.

"What? That's the librarian! The bookseller! My sister!"

"You've got a lot of friends, Moon Dancer." Kion positively commented.

Moon Dancer now cried tears of joy. She turned her head towards Twilight, who was not yet done with her apology.

"I'm sorry, Moon Dancer. I of all ponies should understand what it feels like to be hurt by someone you care about along by someone I trusted." She proved her own point by pointing to the scar on her left eye. "I got this while trying to protect my friends and family, but I wound up getting hurt because of it. After that I never wanted to embrace friendship again to the point I was willing to betray them as payback even siding with someone you least expect to trust ever. Only then I realized I went too far to get it and ended up helping the wrong guy to be put in power. Just when it seemed I nearly lost myself, my best friend Kion was there to help snap out of it. He got through to me, nobody could ever imagine anyone else would in his paws. In fact, I probably wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him. Now, this scar is no longer a reminder of my crimes, but a reminder of how I became a stronger pony, the one you are seeing here today, all thanks to the now Prince of Friendship. I've faced magical creatures, the end of Equestria, all sorts of things. But seeing how my actions affected you, that was one of the worst feelings I've ever had. And just as my friend did for me, I didn't give up on you."

At that moment Moon Dancer’s heart grew three sizes that day, she now felt very regretful and remorseful for the harsh attitude she gave her after she tried her hardest to make amends with her. As of now she decided she is finally ready to do the same with her as she cried more tears of joy.

"Thank you, Twilight. I never realized how much I needed to hear that."

"I may not have been a real friend to you in the past, but I'm hoping you can give me the chance to be one now."

Moon Dancer nodded her head as Twilight extended her hoof before wrapping her in for a hug, something that she has never embraced it for years. All while her friends looked on with pride and smiles.

Fuli herself looked on like she could give tears of joy herself, before shaking her mind against it and suppressed the urge to do so. Bunga on the other hand, was streaming gushers much like Pinkie did when Celestia and Luna reunited after a thousand years.

“Oh how sweet! Oh I just love tearful reunions!”

“Ugh.” Fuli stepped to the side while briefly frowning in his direction before readopting her proud smile towards the two girls for making up.

Once the hug ended, Moon Dancer was as happy as could be for the first time in years. "Now come on, everypony! Let's party! Right?"

"Right!" Pinkie Pie agreed.

“Let’s do it!” Bunga also agreed.

“But first…” Fuli moved to pull out a comb while pulling off her sweater. “…let’s get you ready to do it in style!”

“But my sweater…” Moon Dancer reached out to it in vain while being held by the cheetah who groomed her mane to the way it was before she allowed to be become unkempt. But it vanished, when Kion levitated her a bright red sweater that had some stripes similar to the one on her mane and tail along with a new pair of black glasses. “…Oh!” She was already liking it even better that her old one.

“Yeah I know.” Fuli acknowledged she is not one for fashion and if Rarity were here she would be proud. “But I’d feel better to make starting anew with a bright future in friendship as easy for you as possible.”.

“Fair enough.” She looked at herself in a mirror and came to agree that she looks better already. Already it is all more fitting for her new outlook in life.

Moon Dancer's party went on all day and all through the night. The guests had fun, dancing, playing pin the tail on the Celestia, in addition Moon Dancer received new books from the librarian and the book seller. It was everything Moon Dancer could ever be gifted with.

As the hours passed, ponies gradually left the party to go home, all while bidding Moon Dancer the best of luck to her growing friendship before doing so, the friends started removing the decorations and Twilight approached her new friend.

"I think it's time for us to go, Moon Dancer."

"Thank you for helping me make some new friends. Even if they are my old friends."

“You’re very welcome. We can call it even now and we'll come back and visit soon." Twilight said with an assuring smile.

Moon Dancer smiled in return. "That would be great! But considering you've still gotta teach me that Hayscartes technique, we’re quite even yet!"

"Fair enough. And deal."

"And it was great to meet you too, Kion, Fuli, and Bunga."

“Pleasure’s all our’s.” Kion replied with a nod.

“Happy to do the same.” Fuli said in agreement.

"Just give us a message and we’ll see if we can make it an un-Bunga-lievable day as today!”

Moon Dance giggled. “And I’ll try to be very understanding if something comes up.”

"Of course. No biggie."

Spike approached the unicorn while hiding something behind his back. "Um, Moon Dancer? It got kinda banged up, but here's a little something I wanted to give you back at your first party."

Moon Dancer levitated the gift and cried even more tears of joy when she saw what it was, a portrait of her and all of her friends, including the book-loving Twilight Sparkle. This may have been how she used to be but, much like her scar, it will be a reminder of how much she has changed since then and what she did in order to restore her faith in friendship just like her.

Tonight was definitely a night Moon Dancer will cherish for years to come as she comes out a better pony out of it.

After parting ways with Moon Dancer, Kion noticed that Fuli wasn’t feeling very happy herself, like the party itself really got to her.

“Fuli? You okay?” Kion asked with concern.

Fuli snapped her attention back to him. "Yeah. I was just thinking is all, no need to worry about.”

“You sure it’s nothing about today?” Kion asked feeling certain that she is not being completely honest here.

“No.” She honestly replied. “It is. Nothing personal, it’s just…sure I’ve been very helpful with Twilight and Moon Dancer, but at the same time, I just can’t help but shake off of how similar I was to them. From the past friendship to fallout, to never seeing each other again until years later.”

Upon seeing the conversation herself Twilight chimed, “…like you with your former friends?”

“Yes.”

“I understand.” Twilight said sympathetically to her plight as she placed a hoof on her shoulder. “You hadn’t see any of them since them, and now you’re not sure if you ever want to talk to them again.” Fuli remained silent in response. “Well if and when that day happens and if you need someone to talk to, I’m here for you, and so is Kion.”

“Just like we were there for you, Twilight.”

“Yeah!” Bunga cheerfully agreed. “In fact if you’re lucky you might be coming across whoever these cheetahs you once knew the very next day!”

“Bunga?” Spike said while Kion along with Twilight raised their eyebrows at him in response. Repairing one tense friendship over the last three days was enough for one week.

“What? I said lucky!” Bunga defended. “I mean come on! What are the odds of that happening?”

“Fuli?!” Two familiar voices just happened to speak to her at that very moment.

“What?!” Fuli’s eyes widen in shock when she recognized who those voices came from. And true to her immediate assumption it was the very two faces she’d never thought she would ever see again.

“Sassy?! Sally?!”

“Fuli!” The two girls quickly smiled as they quickly charged at the startled cheetah who was left in a state of shock and confusion at what was happening now...

Author's Note

In Part One of this episode, we of course got Twilight's side on having to amend her friendship with her Canterlot friends, more specifically, Moon Dancer who is carrying a pretty hard grudge towards her for what she did just before the whole Lion and Pony Guard came together.

In addition to what canon had to offer, there are some more flashback scenes to further showcase of how much said friend meant to her back then along with another flashback on a certain cheetah who is seeing eye to eye in the whole situation.

In the end all works out on Twilight's side of the fence and at the same time Fuli is seeing things eye to eye like they hit home to her which surprisingly comes right to her in the very end which will all be focused in Part Two along with another pair that really needs to amend their relationship too so look out for that when it comes out so stay tuned...

Episode 18: Amending Fences Part Two

Episode 18:

Amending Fences Part Two

“Fuli?!”

“Sassy?! Sally?!”

Fuli was left no time to react as she is left stunned stiff as the two girls she never thought she’d see again charged and tackled her for a hug.

“Oh it’s so good to see you again!”

“I know right! It’s been like forever!”

Fuli however didn’t react in the slightest as she looked on like she was staring into deep space.

“Fuli?”

“Yoohoo!” Sally waved her paw in her still stunned face. “Fuli? You there?”

“Fuli?”

“Everything okay?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked who’s voices ended up snapping her out of her froze state of shock before shaking her head to respond.

“Um, yeah, I…” She looks on at the two girls once more with nothing but neutral feelings for them at the moment. “…wow.” The girls along everyone else look in very concerned of what is going through her mind right now given that she is left speechless and doesn’t have a good nor bad opinion upon this sudden reunion. “I’m…I’m sorry. It’s just I wasn’t expecting to see you both at all is all.”

“I know right!” Sally happily exclaimed while oblivious that Fuli’s tone implied that she isn’t thrilled to see her or Sassy at all. “To think that we spent quite some time traveling outside of the Pride Lands before coming back hoping to find you only to have to travel through a magical portal leading us to a world where ponies along with other magical creatures here all sing Kumbaya just to finally find you, Fuli.”

“Come on, Fuli. The least you can do is say something about how excited you are to see us.” Sally implored of her expecting a happy reunion near and far since the last time they saw each other.

Fuli still had objections about it as she commented with a look of disgust and contempt. “I could if I wanted to. But truthfully I can’t and do you know why? Because of what happened the last time we saw each other. And with all honesty I’m not really expected about seeing you both at all.” She further frowned. “In other words…no, I am not interested in a reunion party with you both. You both need to leave.” She turned her back on them much to their shocked surprise.

“What?”

“But Fuli…”

“I mean it!” She abruptly stated with her back still turned. “If anyone else wants to have you for company feel free, but with me…that’s not going to happen. Ever.”

“Why?”

“What did we do?”

“You know why.” She firmly stated before turning to face them and march up to them with a stern look. “Constantly fighting each other and driving one of my old friends away who by the way I’ve never get to see again because of you both.”

“But that was a long time.”

“And we’ve really changed since then.”

“Please…”

“…don’t kick us out.”

“We’ve traveled away from the Pride Lands all this time…”

“…constantly on the move, place to place, every day and night.”

“Every day and night?”

“Yes.”

“Are you both sure?”

“Yes.”

Fuli calmed herself down enough while the others watch on a little unnerved by the cheetah’s sudden hostility before relenting to their request by listening to her own heart.

“Since you’ve had a long journey here, you may stick around.”

Both girls smiled in gratitude in response to their former friend’s obliging to their wishes to stay around to try to get the new her friends more.

“Oh thank you, Fuli.”

“And I know we can work being good friends again…”

“I said you both can stay.” Fuli cut them off mid-sentence still stern. “That doesn’t make you both my friends.”

Both girls can only look on like they have been smacked in the face with the window while Twilight, Kion, Pinkie, Spike, and Bunga look on speechlessly at seeing this side of their friend.

Sure, it was normal for her to be irritable and a little stuck-up at times but what they were seeing was downright cold and disdainful attitude towards them. Clearly, she is still taking what happened in the past pretty hard.

“It’s late, so we will rest up in the castle for the night.” She said before leaving and turning her back on the two cheetahs so she can retire there until morning all while completely ignoring the sadden and crestfallen pair behind.

“Whoa.”

“Geez.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie were the first comment quickly understanding the grave seriousness of the situation.

“I don’t know what to tell you both, but from the looks of it, you sure messed up.”

“Good thing I didn’t make party plans for a reunion. That sure would have been awkward not to mention a waste of cake.”

“We know.” Sally commented knowing full well it’s the truth.

“And we don’t blame her. We really messed up back then.” Sassy added in agreement.

“Always constantly arguing with each other, annoying both Fuli and her old friend to heck and back, to the point we made said cheetah run away to never be seen again.” Sally added with heavy remorse. “And that was a long time ago, too.”

“And Fuli is still upset over it.” Sassy added in the same tone. “She clearly wants nothing to do with us.”

“Can’t argue with that.”

“Nope.”

“Or maybe not.” Kion suggested otherwise. “Maybe she needs a good night’s rest to calm down after getting over her sudden shock of seeing you in a very long time. After all we just went through a very long day of repairing someone’s friendship with one another. So maybe this could be a good time to properly adjust before moving to go all in on the reunion.”

“You really think so.” Sally asked hopeful that it is a case of her being tired and grouchy.

“I know so.”

The look on Twilight’s eyes as she recalled something from her past in magic kindergarten seems to suggest otherwise but decided now was not the time or the place for it.

“Does that mean…” Pinkie equally hopeful started to say.

“…not yet.” Twilight shook her head knowing exactly what she is going to do. “Not until everything is all resolved.”

“Okay.” Pinkie complied but not without showing some disappointment at not being able to put together a reunion party along with putting her party cannon to good use once more.

Spike was quick to pat her on the back. “You’ll know when.” He said with a smile before yawning himself. “Anyways, I think now is a good time to go to bed because boy my scales are sore, so good night.”

He walked off ahead before Twilight moved on ahead to join him but not without having this word of advice for the two girls. “Just try not to push her too much, because there might deep emotion buried deep within that emotionless exterior.”

“Huh?”

“What?”

Both girls were left confused of what she meant by that.

“Please refrain from pushing too hard in trying to befriend her.” She simplified it for their sake.

“Oh! Of course!”

“Now I get it! Got it!”

They both realized as they both beamed up much to the eye-rolling annoyance of the alicorn princess before calling it a night herself along with everyone else.

Hopefully this will all be water under the bridge they were standing near by the time Celestia’s sun rises to the sky, but of course some things are easier said than done, especially when there is more to the story that meets the eye.

The next morning, Celestia’s sun rose to the sky where Luna’s flowers bloomed across the hallways hanging on the potted plants placed on the pedestals on the side of the room.

Said sisters, are inside the dining room where the eldest sister is currently making breakfast while the younger sister is currently sitting at the table drinking coffee since she was up tending to other ponies dreams last night.

While working her magic on the stove Celestia silently hoped to herself that her sister Luna would be able to take the time to enjoy her cooking as she hardly gets through breakfast without crashing out at the first serving.

At the same time, Luna wished pancake breakfast wouldn’t have come at an inopportune time for her. Preferably when she is not getting off dealing with other ponies and Pride Landers dreams overnight and trying just barely to appease her sister since she never prepares them on days she is not needed to stay up overnight. And that’s not accounting for Celestia not taking the time to properly admire the flowers she placed out throughout the hallways every night.

For both sisters it is certainly a bit of struggle for them to completely adjust to being on good terms with one another after being separated from each other when one sister is banished to the moon for a thousand years. Like it is a catastrophe just waiting to happen again should either one of them or the both of them hit a breaking point with one another.

Luckily for the two of them they both have a distraction laid out for them when some of their close friends and guests who have been residing in the castle for the past few nights are coming over to join them for breakfast this morning. For the new guests that have just arrived, their taste buds are certainly going to be in for a treat today.

“Good morning, Celestia, Luna.” Twilight happily greeted first.

“Good morning, Twilight.”

Both sisters greeted though the latter was wearier than the cheerful greeting the former gave.

“Late night.” Twilight said to the tired princess.

“Yes. Third straight late night in a row.” She said while rubbing her head rather exhausted and trying hard to resist falling asleep on the table.

“Oh.” Twilight said with sympathy. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

At that moment, Celestia had finished up her cooking at placed a hearty serving of pancakes on the table fitting for a big happy family to enjoy.

“Banzai!” Bunga yelled out before leaping onto the table alongside Spike before they each chowed down on their tables the very second they spotted them served and ready to eat.

Both Twilight and Kion could only shake their heads in response to their on the table antics as they watched them engorge themselves until their belly’s bloated after having eaten every available pancake.

“BURP!”

“Excuse us!”

While Luna just groaned and slammed her face into the table in exhaustion, Celestia simply giggled in amusement along with Twilight and Kion before moving to assure her it’s all okay.

“Don’t worry Luna, there’s plenty more where that came from.”

“And we’ll help make sure both Spike and Bunga don’t get too carried away any further.” Kion further assured before he and Twilight moved to levitate the two away from the table and onto nearby baby baskets where a couple of trash cans are standing by for them in case they need them.

As Celestia excused herself so she can get more pancakes prepared, the three cheetahs were next to enter the room with Sassy and Sally the first to enter with Fuli slow to enter after them still due to the latter’s sour feelings towards the former pair.

Both Sassy and Sally were giggling with each other as they both moved to get seated at the table with Pinkie Pie hopping alongside them so she can run her mouth with them. And judging from the tired look on Fuli’s eyes they must have been going on at it all night.

“So you mean to tell us that you actually used honey to trap bees that were swarming all over that one elephant?” Sally asked.

“Yep.”

“And Bunga ate them all?”

“Yep. And I’m sure you have guessed it, I created a honey trap for bees. Pretty ironic, huh?”

“So creative!”

“And clever!”

The three girls all laughed together as Celestia served each of them a good serving of pancakes for each of them to enjoy.

“Mmm. Those look good.”

“Are you kidding?! They’re more than good!”

“They’re great!”

The three girls shared as they all got into eating right away.

“Dig in.” Celestia happily said to them as Fuli makes her way to the nearby coffee machine so she can help herself to cup of coffee.

“Good morning, Fuli.” Kion greeted while eating his breakfast alongside Twilight.

“Good morning.” She replied without even a glance back at her friend as her cup of coffee begins brewing.

“Everything okay?” Twilight asked upon noticing her making herself coffee.

“Yep.”

“Even when you’re helping yourself to a cup of coffee?” Twilight asked feeling pretty concerned upon seeing Fuli like this.

“Which you hardly drink?” Kion added equally concerned.

Fuli still pressed forward with it just when the machine produced her a hot cup of black coffee in her mug. “Yep.”

“Fuli…” Celestia moved to try to encourage her against it. “…there’s plenty of juice to wake yourself up with instead of having something you’re still a little young for.”

“Princess Celestia, while I appreciate the offer and with all due respect, for once I need coffee. The two cheetahs who were supposed to be sleeping in the room next door to mine kept me up all night while constantly chatting with Pinkie Pie.” She moved to take a sip of it before moving to sit down next to Princess Luna who looked on with pity at the rough night she just had.

“Did we just…” Sally asked before being cut off by Fuli accompanied with a cranky frown directed at the three girls.

“Yep.”

“Really? Well I guess that explains why that one reptile chased us off that one time while we were chatting the other day.”

“Are you sure that wasn’t him trying to eat us just because he was being mean?” Sassy asked her partner.

“Could be but to be fair we did wake him up.”

“Right…Oops.” Fuli narrowed her tired glare at the girls who sheepishly look on for they accidentally caused.

“Sorry.” Both girls said to Fuli who is barely keeping herself from falling asleep at the table.

Sassy then moved to shout it in her ear. “I said we were sorry!”

“AAH!” She screamed after being startled there.

Already fully irritated she moves to stand up from her seat while taking a plate of pancakes along with her cup of coffee with her as she left the dining room but not without giving Princess Celestia a bow of respect. “I’m sorry but, I’m afraid I’m going to have to take my breakfast to go. That said kindly do not interrupt me while try to catch up on sleep that is of course if you both can take a hint when you see it.” She said the last part with one more frown directed at the two cheetahs before taking her leave.

Princess Luna also equally tired moved to excuse herself from the table so she can follow after Fuli. “Me too.” She said after finishing up her coffee. “I can’t keep myself awake anymore.” She moved to leave the dining room much to Celestia’s sadden disappointment since she had just served her a stack of pancakes (to which Luna levitated along with a pot of coffee to take with her).

After Fuli had left, Sally and Sassy were quick to plant their faces onto the table (more accurately into the pancake platters) in shame after their latest screw-up.

“Dang it.”

“Not again.”

Sally then glared at Sassy. “You just had to shout in her ear didn’t you?!”

“Well you were the one who insisted that we’d invite Pinkie into our dorms for the night so we can chat with one of her friends!” Sassy snapped back defensively.

Sally caught herself before it could devolve into another petty squabble as she buried one of her paws in her face accompanied with a heavy sigh. “Yes I did and I can’t deny it. And neither can you. Point is we both messed up and you can’t deny it even if you wanted to.”

Sassy’s anger dissipated at that moment as the truth in her words sunk in and cut her deep inside instantly regretting her foolish attitude of nearly instigating another fight between them. Because of it now they are both at strike one and strike two in regards to trying to make amends with Fuli. Without realizing it they still kept messing up their attempts to make things right with her up until now.

“You’re right, Sally.”

“It’ll be okay…” Twilight attempted to assure the girls. “…though maybe you girls should steer clear of her up until she’s well-rested…which could take up to eight hours. Ten actually after she is done with breakfast.”

“Which gives you plenty of time to figure out how can try to make it up to her…” Kion added. “…as long you don’t try to rush things along.”

“Kion’s right, girls.” Celestia agreed in a gentle tone. “While Fuli has been known to strive for patience she still has her moments where trying to rush things along don’t work wonders for her.”

“So what can we do until then?” Sally asked unsure of how they can properly reconcile with Fuli without messing things up again.

“Hmm…” Celestia tapped a hoof on her chin as she gave it some good thought before coming up with a solution. “…how about you girls spend the rest of the day with me? I think I might know a couple of delegates who would be entertained and thrilled to see a couple of international guests talk about your travels from here to the other world.”

Both girls shrugged in response.

“Sure.”

“Why not? I mean it’s not like we have anything better to do.”

“You can say that again.” Kion commented before noticing both Bunga and Spike hurling inside the provided trash cans due to the sudden stomach aches being too much for them. “Because it looks like Twilight and I will have our paws and hooves full in taking care of our friends.”

“And judging from the looks on them, it might take up the considerable amount of that time frame.” Twilight added as he moved and gently place her hoof on Spike. “Easy there, Spike. You’re going to be okay.”

“Ugh, I hope so. And I hope I never put myself in this position again.”

“Me too. When will we learn?”

The two groaned as their faces literally turned green.

“Um between you two…” Twilight said with an honest tone. “…Spike more so than you.” Bunga pouted. “Sorry, but it’s true.”

“Fair enough.”

Both Twilight and Kion proceeded to guide them to their rooms so they can nurse them back to health leaving the elder alicorn princess alone with both cheetahs to resume their pancake breakfast.

“So girls…” Celestia said as she sipped her tea before digging into her own homemade creation. “…tell me about yourselves.”

“Sure.”

“Okay.”

The two complied before moving to talk to the princess heart to heart while the princess listens attentively.

At the same time, Luna is doing the same with Fuli over pancakes and coffee.

“I suppose you’re wondering why I’m not very fond of those two cheetahs you just met huh?” Fuli asked while cutting up small bite sizes bits of pancake.

“I’m open to listening if you are willing to talk about it.” She replied while eating up her pancakes.

“Well I guess it’s a good thing we have plenty of pancakes and coffee to talk over about it.

“Indeed.”

Both Sassy and Sally talked it over with Celestia at the same time Fuli talked it over with Luna over breakfast to the point they finished up every drop and bite by the time they were done telling their respective alicorn princesses the story of how it all came to be. And suffice to say, the same went for both Celestia and Luna vice versa as they both talked to them about their relationship with one another ever since Nightmare Moon’s return. Both parties had the same surprised reactions after hearing one another’s story but both had differing reactions given that said cheetah’s have striking similarities with their respective alicorn’s.

“And that’s what happened.” The three cheetahs all said at the exact same time in separate rooms.

“Oh my.”

“Goodness.”

The sisters uttered in reaction to the story.

“Yep.”

“I know right.”

The cheetahs replied feeling good that said alicorns understand them.

“I mean I get why they want to be able to reconnect with me but at the same time I can’t find it in my heart to be able to. Not after what their constant bickering cost me.” Fuli explained to Luna.

“Indeed it is very hard, dear Fuli. Lonely for a happy cheetah to walk down a pathway without friendly love.” Fuli’s eyes looked down feeling it is more than that but was deep down not about to get all emotional about it right now.

“It is. Up until I met Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard I never had wanted to make another friend without wanting to suffer heartbreak like that ever again.” The cheetah said with the strong urge not to cry already the deep cracks in her heart. “And now they have finally found me and have already gotten on my nerves in a span of eight hours.”

“I see.” Luna sipped the last of her coffee as she moved to gather up their empty dishes and cups so she can move to they take them back to the kitchen so they can get cleaned up. “Well since I’m about to go to sleep since I need it after a very long exhausting night of tending to other ponies and Pride Landers dreams…” But then she thought to herself. “…actually, would you like some company while you sleep too, Fuli? I’ve got plenty of room in my dorm to accommodate another guest.”

“Sure. Whatever guarantees myself a much needed rest. Especially considering that both Sally and Sassy just managed to non-stop talk their mouths all night.”

“Okay then.” She said as they moved to walked out the room they were currently in before walking across the hallways together. “My dorm is straight down the hallway right towards the throne room on the left so go on ahead towards the entrance which is my cutie mark and I’ll meet you there.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

When the two reached the dining room entrance the two briefly went their separate ways.

At the same time, Celestia is discussing her thoughts on what Sassy and Sally told her which was essentially the same thing Fuli told her just minutes ago.

“I mean I understand why Fuli is upset with us but I really wish she could just let it all go so we can become friends once again.”

“Yeah! It’s like a part of her is still living in the past. I mean what more does she need in order to move past all of this?”

Celestia equally understanding of what she is told compared to Luna though more so towards both chatty cheetahs given that she relates to them even more much like Fuli with Luna.

“Well, like I said before give your friend some time to rest before you try to reapproach her. And then you can try to properly apologize to her for what you did back then.” Celestia advised. “Knowing Fuli, as long as you show of how sincere you are with what you did back then, she is sure to accept your apology.”

“Even after breaking her heart?” Sally asked.

“Absolutely.” She nodded with great certainty while not quite picking up the slight hint that when Sally asked that it wasn’t quite the reaffirmation she was looking for as if they did more than hurt Fuli as a friend.

“Great!” Sassy remarked with 100% satisfaction before moving to gather up their dishes so she can take them in to the kitchen so they can get cleaned.

At that moment Luna walked inside the dining room while bypassing her sister as she moved to do the same.

“Oh here…” Sassy quickly moved to snatch the plates with her tail. “…allow me, your highness.”

“Oh.” Luna was highly surprised with how sudden and insistent she was about wanting to do it. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome!”

Normally the night monarch wouldn’t mind doing the dishes herself but considering of how tired she is right now, it’s one less thing to worry about before going off so she and Fuli can finally go to sleep for the next eight hours. All while ignoring her sister due to said sleep deprivation much to the elder sister’s further disappointment as she was hoping she could take the time to further bond with her herself.

If only Celestia could understand Luna more as much as Luna could understand her sister in return.

At the same time, Twilight who is tending to Spike at the same time Kion is tending to Bunga in the similar fashion happened to witness and eavesdrop their conversation to know full well of both sides of the story. And given the very somber and understanding look on her face, she probably has a great and full understanding of the story. Especially considering that Fuli recalled this to her once at her first slumber party.

“Everything good Twilight?” Kion asked.

“Yep.” She nodded in reassurance.

“Anything we can do about all of this?” Kion further asked referring to Fuli’s current friendship problem.

“For now, no. Eight hours from now we can check up on them as long as we don’t interfere unless it is absolutely necessary.”

Kion remembering of how irritated Fuli felt when he thought it was a good idea to invite her to a family ‘hunt’ together to the point he very nearly broke off her friendship with him and the rest of the Lion Guard wisely took the princess’s advice to heart.

“Okay, Twilight. Let’s hope for the best till then.”

“Let’s.”

The two agreed before heading back inside so they can continue nursing both Spike and Bunga who are both still sporting sickly green faces and still looked like they were going to throw up.

Knowing of how strained friendships work nowadays there are sure to be some hurdles for them to tackle together but one thing’s for sure is that everything will all work out in the end. And as long as that happens, that’s what really matters.

Eight hours later…both Luna and Fuli emerged from the former’s bedroom looking much more relaxed and well-rested then they did before. And they both looked much more calm and cool likewise than before their much needed rest.

“Ugh…” Fuli said as she stretched out her legs and back. “…wow! I feel better already!”

“Me too, Fuli.” Luna said in agreement with a relived smile on her face. “One good thing about not having to deal with royal duties during every other day of the week.” She then notices the nearby lavender flowers she placed on the many potted plants through the hallways before moving to take a good whiff of them after flying up to the higher placed ones hanging from the ceiling. “Ah, still fresh and lavender scented.” She then moved to take down the pot of flowers she was just sniffing before floating back down so she get Fuli to get a good whiff of the flowers herself.

After indulging in the princess’s request as she got to sniff the freshly scented flowers herself and much to her own astonishment, the lavender flowers actually smell wonderfully to her. It gives her a royal tranquil feeling of relaxation that she spent the last eight hours getting settled into during the day.

“Wow!” She remarked feeling further rejuvenated. “Very flourish.”

“Indeed.” Luna nodded and smiled pleased to hear someone else approves of it. “Lavender's calming scent is known to aid dreamers in achieving a restorative sleep.”

“I wonder if that’s how Twilight is able to sleep well at night even on her bad days.” She thought to herself before speaking her mind while sniffing the flowers once more. “Still, that's so thoughtful!”

“I try my best to make sure the ponies in this castle sleep peacefully.”

Just then they heard nearby doors open just when Celestia emerged with two diplomats along with both Sassy and Sally all giggling and laughing along the way.

“And so, then I said, "Touring? More like 'boring'!" One of the dignitary ponies commented.

“Really?” Sassy remarked like it is a joke. “That is so on point! I mean talk about pouring on flair to the eclairs. Am I right?”

“No, no, no, Sassy. Eclairs have cream inside of them so if anything I think they are feeling more creamed afterwards.”

Princess Celestia laughed alongside them along with the other ponies who found it equally funny. “Oh, Sally, Sassy, you both really are a couple of cards!”

Luna can only look on aside and sigh in disappointment as her sister barely paid any attention to the flowers she had prepped up the night before along with both cheetahs walking alongside her. “But as always, my sister is too busy having fun with dignitary ponies to acknowledge anything I do. Hmph!”

Luna can only shake her head in disgust before being quick to follow after the night monarch as she could never have seen much more interesting parallels to relate herself to her along with more hidden dynamic in her failed friendship with the girls in question. To her, it was like looking in a mirror in regards to both sisters as much as herself with the dynamic duo. And she is not the only one who sees it.

Unbeknownst to both parties, both Kion and Twilight were listening and watching from afar while peeking their heads from the nearby hallway corner and they both managed to hear and fully comprehend the full scope of the problem.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion remarked in shock.

“I know.” Twilight agreed. “Not only do we have one friendship problem that involves trying to mend fences between a friend and a pair of former friends in front of us, but two. And one is both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna themselves.”

“Yep. With one cheetah to another seeing eye to eye to with different sisters.” Kion added looking uneasy with what he just saw.

“Uh-huh.” Twilight replied feeling equally unsure of how to approach this herself.

“I guess the question now is how can we touch upon without both princesses getting into a world-threatening screaming and magic throwing match?”

It took her a minute before coming up with a quick and good idea of a solution to potentially resolve the matter. “A little smooth talking over dinner tonight. That way Luna won’t be too sleep deprived to fully hear her sister out.”

Kion liked the idea already. “Yeah! And if they hear out each other by then there should be nothing for them get all mad at each other over past grudges and feelings hurt back then.”

“Mmm-hmm. A perfect opportunity for well-rested and well fed ponies and cheetahs alike to talk things over, so that by the time they’re done talking things through, what happened back then is all water under the bridge. Shouldn’t be too hard should it?”

“Can’t otherwise, no.”

“Then it’s settled. Dinner tonight to appease two friendships in one sitting.”

“Like killing two birds with one stone?” Spike asked from behind the pair alongside Bunga who are both starting to feel better from their sudden stomach aches from earlier.

“Similar idea but no blood involved.”

“Right, right.”

“That makes sense.”

“Exactly.” Twilight nodded.

“Can I help cook?” Spike asked to which Twilight nodded in response to his request. “Yes!” He pumped his fist up in triumphant. “I can’t wait to make my famous jewel cake!”

“As long as it doesn’t involve trying to get jewels from the royal treasury.” Twilight sternly warned them as she eyed Bunga trying to sneak away with one of her special jewel crown. “Or valuables right out of my room.”

“What me?” Bunga tried playing it off like a joke. “Come on! You know me! I would never do a thing like that! Honest!” To prove his he quickly tossed the crown back inside which ended up crashing through her room’s window.

“My leg!” One guard pony screamed.

Twilight raised an eyebrow at him unconvinced alongside Kion who looked on expectantly at his friend.

“Eh, heh…” Bunga nervously chuckled before giving up before moving to fix the mess he created. “…right. Fix the window and fix the pony’s leg. No wait…” He realized. “…strike that! Reverse it.”

He quickly ran off ahead to do so while Kion followed after him to make sure he sees to it that he does while Twilight and Spike head on back to the kitchen so they can take a turn in preparing tonight’s dinner that’ll appease their friends and help them make amends with one another.

A few hours later the whole party that gathered for breakfast all gathered for dinner prepared to them courtesy of the young alicorn princess herself.

Thanks to Spike to assist her with the cooking, Twilight was able to prepare for everyone a dish that they would all enjoy. Mashed potatoes with optional chicken gravy with mixed vegetables, and golden roasted turkey.

“Wow.” Fuli was the first to remark her amazed delight at what she just put in her mouth. “Who knew that every princess can cook?”

“Well I’m sure if Beshte were here he would say..."Like my dad always said, don't knock it till you try it.""

“Right. Of course.”

“I know. I almost feel bad eating this.”

“It's adorable.”

Both Sally and Sassy commented their liking of the princess’s dish to which Twilight shook her head in response to their flattery.

“Like I said, and much like my mentor taught me, I enjoy doing this on a good day.” She then stood up as she walked by everyone as she continued. “That said, I know we started off today on the wrong hoofs and paws but I’m sure none of us meant to hurt each other the way we did.” The three cheetahs and two alicorn sisters looked on in confusion. “I mean we’re all friends here so what do you say we settle this for good?”

“You mean duke it out?” Fuli asked while both Sally and Sassy look on frightened at the idea given her role in the Lion and Pony Guard.

“No, no, no. Just the opposite. And by that I mean let’s talk over it.”

“And not just three of you…” Kion added as he turned to both Celestia and Luna. “…but also you two.”

“Excuse me?”

“I beg your pardon?”

Both sisters spoke simultaneously at that moment looking on quite incredulous at the thought.

“Because judging from what we heard and saw from your interactions with Fuli, Sassy, and Sally respectively we think you're accidentally hurting each other's feelings without realizing it. I mean Princess Celestia, does it bother you that Luna never notices the wonderful breakfasts that you prepare for her?”

“Uh... Y-Yes. It does.” She admitted.

Kion then turned to both Sally and Sassy. “And doesn’t it bother you two that Fuli never gives you a chance to hear you out so that you both can say I’m sorry?”

“Yes, it does.”

“Very much, actually.”

The two cheetahs admitted though addressed cheetah looked on offended in response to said claim.

“Excuse me?!”

“Fuli, it isn’t personal. It’s just looking at things from a neutral standpoint.” Twilight quickly assured before continuing. “I mean I do get it why it bothers you that both girls no offense but…” She quickly added in their direction “…tend to constantly talk without considering other’s feeling along the way.”

“Takes a few minutes let alone a few seconds for the ball of yarn to start unraveling.”

Both girls gasped in excitement when they saw an actual ball of yarn appear in her paw before said cheetah tossed it to them and started quickly playing and gossiping about it like there is no tomorrow. All while Fuli looks on unimpressed and stoic about it.

With her point made, Kion decided it was best to move things along before they could start to go south. “Princess Luna, tell Celestia how you feel about the fact that she never acknowledges the work you put into lining the hallway with lavender every night.”

“I... Well, I... I-It's not the best feeling.” She honestly admitted before turning to her sister in a rather begrudging manner. “I'm sorry I never noticed that you make fruit faces on pancakes…” She then spoke trying to speak from her heart as she continued. “…, but nights are long for me. You might be a morning pony, but I am half-asleep.”

Celestia however got offended in return. “You think I don't get tired? I'm exhausted! Oh, I apologize for not noticing flowers in a wall sconce. But by the time I get to retire for the night, I can barely see straight! Even so, I still make an effort to smile!” She even sports a forced smile to show her pearly white teeth to make a point.

Luna wasn’t convinced herself as she scoffed. “Like smiling is so hard.”

“Now, now, I'm sure that's not what Princess Luna meant to say.” Twilight calmly tried to interject seeing the boiling tension that was starting to get out of control.

“Is that what exhausts you? Smiling and being adored by everypony?”

“And you have it so much worse, do you?! You've spent your evenings flitting around giving ponies lovely dreams!” She said the last part in a rather mimicking tone. “Oh, it sounds just awful!”

“Okay!” Kion tried to assert himself in between them to get both sisters to calm down. “I know you’re both upset, but let’s just calm down. So just take a deep breath...”

Luna however levitated both him and Twilight aside so she can yell in her sister’s face.

“Don't presume to know what it is like to govern the dream realm!”

“And yet you know exactly what it's like to be me?!” Celestia yelled back much to everyone’s unnerved discomfort. “Oh, please!”

Seeing that there is no talking them down, everyone decided it was wise to quietly tiptoe their way out of the dining room while the two sister’s shouting match dragged on well into the night and on into the morning with both Spike and Bunga who were about to stroll in with the promised jewel cake wisely backing away so they can eat it in the kitchen before climbing their way out throughout the windows and up to the nearby hallways leading up to their bedrooms.

Even though the Royal Guards were fully aware of what was happening inside that room, not one of them dared to try calm the raging alicorns down.

“Should one of us go inside and try to stop them!” One guard fearfully asked the other.

“I don’t think so.” The other guard fearfully replied.

“You’re not turning me into a mashed potato!” Another guard fearfully stated.

“Neither one of you have any siblings. Fighting is all part of the healing process.”

“Well it’s a good thing Princess Twilight ensured that we got ear plugs and placed separate bubbles over our dorms and the castle itself to keep everyone else from being drawn to this private dispute.” Another guard commented in relief.

“Yep.” Another guard nodded in agreement before they all walked off so they relax for the rest of the night.

By the time it is time for the sun to rise, the Guard staying over along with the cheetahs had all waken up in time to see not only for Celestia’s sun to rise but also…

BOOM!

…Came from inside the dining room.

“What was that?!”

“I don’t know!”

Both Kion and Twilight shared as they rushed back on over to the dining room and were the first to burst inside to see a sight that had their jaws dropping in horror and their blood dropping cold…

“Holy Simba!”

“Oh my Celestia and Luna!”

“What’s going on?!”

“What happened?!”

Both Bunga and Fuli asked when they saw the shocking sight in front of them before gasped together upon seeing it themselves along with both Sassy and Sally.

“Whoa!”

“What is this?!”

“It’s like Freaky Friday expect on a Tuesday!” Sally remarked upon witnessing it.

“Expect it’s not bodies that are switched but markings.” Sassy added as the sight in front them is true to their claims.

…their cutie marks have indeed been switched and it is something that no one would ever have imagined to happen in all of their life’s.

“Well it looks this day just got interesting.” Fuli commented while just imagining the potential catastrophe between the two sisters already.

“Indeed it has…” Scar’s voice commented as he watched the scene with his magic from the Outlands Volcano. “…for me.”

Just after processing what had happened, Twilight nearly fainted before being quickly caught by both Kion and Spike just before she could hit her head on the floor while Sassy did the same with Sally.

Fuli could only look with a disapproving look at the two cheetahs while Kion was quick to support Twilight up on her hooves.

“Great. Two swapped cutie marks and two Rarity-like fainting dramas!”

“Fuli, now is not the time for that…” Kion scolded before moving to tend to the princess.

“Twilight, it’s okay, I got you.” Spike further assured.

“Uhh…what…” She said as she started to regain consciousness while finding herself focusing on the sight that caused her to faint. “…Princess Celestia. Princess Luna. What…have you both done?!” She asked as she moved to get a closer look at the switched cutie marks.

“Oh, nothing, Twilight.” Celestia falsely assured. “We’re just finally hashing things out with each other, isn’t that right, Luna?”

Luna nodded in agreement in the same forced tone. “Of course! After spending the last eight hours shouting and arguing with one another we decided it was best that we know for ourselves what it is like to be one another for the day for a change.”

“What do you mean?!”

“We mean that in order to know what it is like being each other that we should take over each other’s roles for today.” Luna explained with Twilight still looking on wide-eyed and stunned. She sighed irritably before clarifying. “I take over the daytime royal duties while Celestia takes over the nighttime duties.”

Seeing the distress on the poor pony’s face had Kion step forward to try to speak his mind about it while staying to her side to ensure she doesn’t faint without support. “With all due respect Princesses Celestia and Luna, are you both sure that’s really the best course of action? Especially considering that you both have been up all night and haven’t been thinking straight?”

“Of course we’re sure!” Luna sharply stated to which Kion reeled back in shock because of how sudden it came. “If I am to understand my sister I should for once fill her shoes.”

“Um, technically they’re slippers..”

“…so it should be “I should for once fill her slippers.”"

Both Bunga and Sassy felt the need to comment before being quickly jabbed in the ribs by both Fuli and Sally.

“Ow!”

“What was that for?!”

“Now is not the time to correct her!” Fuli scolded while directing their attention to the two angrily glaring alicorn princesses in front of them. “Unless you both want to be sent to the moon!”

Upon seeing said look had both wisely shutting up now even donning zippers to their mouths (courtesy of Pinkie Pie).

“As I was saying…” Kion started to say before Twilight found the courage and composure to speak her mind on the matter.

“Look! We understand that you’re upset with each other but Celestial, Luna, please reconsider this hasty decision! You’ve went through this once before! And if it happens again, who knows what will happen.”

“Relax, Twilight.” Celestia said to assure her otherwise. “It’s only for today and it’s just a little switcheroo.” Said Princess wasn’t convinced. “I promise you…” she moved to place a wing on her back. “…we’ll be fine. But if it helps you can stand by our side to help assist us with our temporary duties.”

Twilight sighed deciding it was best to accept their decision since it is perfectly clear they are both committed to this already. “That I can do. And since I too have daily responsibilities to the throne today, I’ll help you out with yours Princess Luna.” She then turned to the others. “Any of you want to tag along?”

“Sure!” Fuli said quick to seize the opportunity to get away from both Sally and Sassy for the rest of the day to the point she ignored the sadden look on their faces. “Let’s do this!”

With the decision set, Twilight, Spike, and Fuli walked ahead alongside the night monarch ready to carry out the daytime duties Celestia does every day.

At the same time both Sally and Sassy are left downcast once more at the continuing cold shoulder Fuli is giving them. Clearly whatever happened back then has the cheetah still holding a grudge against them. A very, very, deep and resentful grudge.

“I guess we’ll be going with Princess Celestia..” Sassy then said before walking off in the opposite direction.

“If that’s all right with you?” Sally politely added out of courtesy towards the sun monarch.

“Of course.” She kindly accepted having them by her side before turning to Kion. “Well since I’m going to be working overnight, I’m going to turn myself and the girls in till the night.”

With that Celestia took her leave alongside Sassy and Sally leaving both Kion and Bunga alone together.

After unzipping his mouth Bunga popped the question. “What should we do?”

“Honestly at this point, there’s not much we can do other than watch over Princess Luna to make sure she is okay. ” Was all Kion can say about all of this. “I think I’m going to join up with her just to be sure she’s got this.”

“Good idea.” Bunga decided to head in the opposite direction. “I guess now is a good time to see how Pinkie is doing in coming with the post-crisis aversion party.”

“No time like now.” Kion said.

“True that.”

With that, they went their separate ways all while Scar continued to observe from the comforts of his lair in the Outlands Volcano.

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Scar commented with a chuckle with Starlight and Ushari standing before his fiery appearance.

“And you obviously want these boiling tensions to continue.” Starlight figured.

“Correct, Starlight because should their tempers be tested to the point of a volcanic-like eruption it could give us the perfect opportunity to rise to power. Power that’ll allow us to change Equestria and the Pride Lands to our liking.”

“Yesss. Of course.” Ushari liked the idea already. “So Scar, how do you want to handle this?”

“Obviously we can’t be seen nor can we make a move on them right now since I’m still not up to full power at this time. So we must be stealthy about this like before. That said Starlight…” He said in her direction. “…refrain from overdoing it on the magic this time. I want Twilight to be able catch on at the right time in this matter.”

“Okay.” She accepted his order while visibly making her disappointment clear.

“Just keep planting the seeds, one by one.” He gently instructed. “You‘ll know when.” He then turned to Ushari. “As for you Ushari, you have the honor of carrying out the other part of my plan.” He magically had a doctor’s coat his size along with a medical kit which in addition to the expected supplies it also has empty tubes along with needles, tranquilizer serum, and syringes. He then disappeared and reappeared wearing a doctor’s disguise. “For which you’ll have my help in.”

“Are you sure, Scar?” Ushari asked looking uncertain if that’s a good idea especially if eyes from the Lion and Pony Guard along with the Royal Family are looking in Starlight’s role in the matter. “Maybe it’s better if i do this myself?”

Scar remained firm in the matter. “I do this alongside you. If this is to be pulled off perfectly then you’re going to need my help here.”

Ushari nodded in respect to his decision. “Of course.”

With that settled, they all huddled up as Scar discusses of how to pull this off so they can all walk out of there having benefited from the situation and without being discovered. And knowing Scar, he sure knows of how to do it.

Later on that day, Twilight along with both Kion and Fuli proceeded to look over the list of royal duties that Princess Luna is going to do instead of her sister. The list itself is quite large and judging from the dark blue alicorn’s reaction it was bigger than she actually expected it to be.

“Everything all good, Luna?”

“Not too much for you to handle?”

Both Twilight and Kion asked before proceeding with the first of many tasks today.

“Fear not. Tis is nothing that I shall not be able to handle.” She assured in her old ponyish before turning to the royal advisor. “Proceed with the royal court session.”

Not one to question her order, Spike moved to open up the double doors to allow the ponies to enter who all find themselves surprised to see Luna instead of Celestia, along with the cutie mark too.

Luna quickly stepped forward on the royal throne to assure everyone before they could get worried about what was happening right in front of them. "Don't worry my fellow ponies, my sister and I have agreed to this and I can assure you, I am more than capable of handling of her duties in her place. So carry on as usual and treat me like you would treat Celestia like any another day so…” She briefly but quietly yawned to herself. “…dismissed.”

Everyone all obeyed and respected her wishes without further questions before the princess herself turned to her fellow prince and princess as they went over the list again. During which Luna took the time to chuckle to herself. “This should be easy.” She mentally thought in her head before moving to press forward with it.

“Wanna bet she’ll hit a bump in the run before the end of the day?” Fuli whispered to Twilight.

“Yep. Four orders of hayburgers and fries that’ll she crack halfway into the day.”

“Deal.” They shook on it before following at the night monarch to assist and advise her to the best of their ability.

The day carried on as usual thanks to the both young prince and princess backing her up every step of the way while Luna herself is starting to find that her sister’s daily daytime duties are as easy as she initially thought it would be. Court sessions lasted longer than she expected. She had multiple store openings, a royal rose contest where she presides over it as its judge, along with many, many public appearances to boot, all while smiling and waving when in public. Given that was she going through with it all with very little sleep it was proving to be quite difficult considering that there is no wiggle room for her take a brief nap through it all. But she managed to preserve through it much to Kion, Twilight, along with the royal guard’s relief as they were on edge whether ponies were going to start a riot over it.

Around noon, came a photo shoot for a school fundraiser where Luna had to give another good smile for the press. She stood alongside the fillies on the stairs in front of the school entrance with another bright smile. But by then, the constant pressure and her constantly smiling at every second even when in private has already taken its toll on her, even more so due to her sleep deprivation kicking in.

Upon sensing this Twilight and Kion gestured her to relax her smile to the point she is not showing her teeth until the few seconds before the photo is taken.

“It’s okay.”

“You got this.”

She relaxed her smile per both the prince and princesses advice when thanks to a soothing music than rang through her ears along with a ill-timed wake-up courtesy of another disturbing voice had her smile turn into a frown just when the camera flashed.

Luckily for her, Fuli was quick to swoop with her super speed to get the princess to force herself to smile to ensure no one noticed that and thanks to both Kion and Twilight quickly intercepting the papers before it could be public to the press, the potential crisis has been averted...for now.

At the same time the hidden Starlight Glimmer chuckled to herself before teleporting away before she could be discovered.

But even still at lunchtime the issue at hoof is still brought to her attention when her advisors showed her picture that the camera caught when it flashed.

Luna read the headline and had immediate guilt inside of her. "Princess Disapproves of School Fundraiser". Immediately she apologized. "But…I…I don’t understand! One moment I try to relax it before the photo shoot and then suddenly I briefly fall asleep and end up scowling like this! How did this happen?!”

“Because you’re exhausted from constantly trying to smile and wave to everyone 24/7, that’s why.” Twilight calmly explained.

Luna can only rest her arms on the table and bury her hooves into her face in shame that she allowed that to happen. “Oh, why did we have to have that all-night argument! Than none of that would have happened!”

“It’s okay.” Kion tried to get her to calm down. “It’s not the end of the world. I’m sure if we talk to the teachers we can arrange a photo re-shoot to ensure that the fundraiser is a success.”

“That is when you’re well-rested of course by then.” Fuli added.

Luna raised her arm from the table as she still had a hoof on her head like she is going to pass out from all of the stress of her sister’s daily duties. “Okay. Good.” For a second she briefly thought to herself wondering how Celestia managed all of the royal duties 24/7 for a thousand years before moving to regain her composure before deciding to move on with the rest of the day. “Now…what’s next on the agenda after lunch?”

“Well…” Fuli started just when Twilight levitated her schedule right towards her. “…still a way’s to go here.”

"What?!” Luna gasped as she seized control of the schedule and scrolled down through the list of duties that haven’t been checked off yet. “Oh dear…” She moved to place a forehead on her head before falling back to pass out.

Luckily for her Fuli quickly rushed over to catch her chair and her still in it before she could hit her head on the ground.

Five minutes later, Luna started to come too as her eyes slowly opened up to see the worried faces from Twilight, Kion, and Fuli all gathered around her as they make sure she is still okay.

“Luna?!... Princess Luna?! Are you okay?!" Kion spoke to her in an urgent manner.

"Huh? O-oh...Yes, Kion. Wha…what happened?!” She muttered as she managed to pick herself up on her hooves.

“You were unconscious. You passed out five minutes ago.” Fuli explained as she moved to assist her into ensuring she doesn’t stumble and fall backwards again. “Good thing I was there to catch you otherwise the press would sure have a field day upon learning that one of the princesses is in the hospital due to sudden stress.”

“At least that’s one good thing.” Luna moaned as her frown at the school photo-shoot is still fresh in her mind. “As for those poor fillies and their fundraiser, I wish I could say otherwise.”

“It’ll be okay.” Fuli quickly assured. “Twilight will talk to the teachers and get that re-do scheduled and Kion will make sure the other delegates will treat you with the same respect they would give you as if Celestia were here.”

“In the meantime…” Kion added as he presented her a plate of food while Twilight handed her a cup of coffee along with the pot itself. “…let’s take this time to relax, eat some food, and have some coffee while you still can because we still got half the day left.”

“Okay…” She conceded as she took a deep breath and did as her friends advised her to.

After taking the time to manage a cold shower during her lunch hour, Kion and Twilight did as they promised and managed to arrange for a re-do on the photo shoot along with giving Luna the time she needs to mentally prepare for the second half of the day. With all things considered, she cannot afford any more bad publicity.

During which, Fuli took the time to try to speak out to her heart-to-heart with her.

“Doing okay?” Fuli asked as she moved to hand Luna a towel just outside the royal bathroom.

“Yes Fuli, even with all things considered.” Deep down she wishes none of this had even happened even with her friends ensuring that no damage has been done during her time filling in for her sister.

“You’re not still stewing over the botched photo shoot?”

“A little. Yes.” She replied as she stepped out of the shower to dry herself off. “Those fillies worked really hard to want to raise enough money for this field trip they were looking forward. But now the only thing they’ll have to look forward is how my inability to smile at the right moment cost them that.”

“Well…I mean…you didn’t completely ruin it. The fundraiser didn’t end today so you still have a second chance to make it right later this week. And I’m sure Celestia didn’t have it any easier. In fact, I’m sure she has fumbled a few photo shoots here and there.”

“Doubt it since she managed to run an entire kingdom on her own for a thousand years.”

“Okay, yes she did. But it still wasn’t easy in fact I’ll bet a stack of pancakes that Celestia has had trouble managing other ponies’ dreams after a very long day.”

“You really want bet on that considering you just lost your earlier bet with Twilight?”

“That’s not the point!” She sharply stated before taking a deep breath so she can calmly get Luna to understand what she meant by that. “I mean the point is, your sister is far from perfect. Deep down that smile she puts on every day is really a nice pony who deep down has had grief and regret of having banish her own sister to the moon because of a little dispute that got out of hoof. Deep down she wished every single day that she could have gone back to that moment and tried her hardest to reconcile with you because she really missed you every single day back then until your return.” She then looked on solemnly. “Maybe a little love allowed into your heart is what you really need to truly look on the bright side of things even when they look bad.”

“Hmm…” Luna’s stern expression softened up as she donned her crown, necklace, and slippers before stepping out of the bathroom to see eye to eye with the cheetah. “…I suppose you’re right. And I suppose you would feel the same way if you were in Sally and Sassy’s paw prints would you?”

Fuli gave it some good thought thinking that maybe she was being too harsh on the girls but at the same time can’t find it in her heart to forgive and forget. “Maybe, if I had reason to forgive them.”

“Fair enough.” They moved on forward together so they can carry out the rest of the daytime duties to the crown. “Anyways, we should get this over with.”

“Let’s.”

The two walked on back to the throne room where both Kion and Twilight were waiting for them where they plan on sitting in on these meetings so they can help Luna out. With what had just happened earlier, she really could use some help going forward.

With the prince and princesses seated, both Fuli and Spike moved to open the double doors so the delegates can move to meet with the night princess herself. Although they have been informed of the temporary change, they couldn’t help but feel off about it, especially upon seeing the dark circles and exhausted eye bags on her face.

"Greetings." The night alicorn rose up on her hooves. "If you all would kindly line up one by one, I’ll be more that happy to hear you out and try to resolve your issues to the best of my ability. So shall we begin?”

“If you sure this is something you can manage, princess.” Fancy Pants replied rather hesitantly.

The delegates formed a line where their concerns were addressed one by one with high hopes that Princess Luna would be able to solve them.

Luna, for her part, did her best to concentrate and pay attention. But even after the talk with Fuli she still couldn’t keep her mind off of the school children from Las Pegasus. Upon seeing this had Spike write the addressed issues all down while Twilight and Kion moved to step in on her behalf in order to resolve them.

Then came one delegate who unlike the rest who looked on unsure and uneasy of asking so much of Princess Luna when she is clearly and visibly exhausted from being up for the last 24 hours had a rather rude attitude when stepped forward with his issues at hoof. A timberwolf issue. To which Luna was quick to say.

“Fear not, because I can surely tell you that THERE ARE NO TIMBERWOLVES IN THE WHITETAIL WOODS!" She then gasped and quickly covered her mouth as she realized that she'd unintentionally slipped into her Royal Canterlot Voice. “Umm, I mean…” She then corrected and said in her normal tone. “…no. There are no timberwolves. You can tell your fellow ponies that they have nothing to worry about. Okay."

“Okay.” He then turned and left without another word.

The dark blue alicorn can only sink to her sister’s throne in shame for that outburst as her eyes having great trouble staying awake no matter how much coffee she drinks. At this point she is just desperate to see to that enough time passed that so she can call it a day. But there’s still a lot of time left to burn before that can happen.

“I’m sorry, Twilight.” Luna apologized. “But I couldn't stop thinking about those poor students. Normally, I have all the time in solitude I need to work through my problems at my own pace.”

“Well your sister doesn't get that luxury.” She said before proposing an idea. “And since you’re feeling out of sorts I think I’ll help out a little more because I’m sure these two are really about to go at it.

Said ponies are both Mayor Cream Cheese and Mayor Baltimare and they both looked pretty heated at one another.

”The princess will definitely side with me!”

“Please see reason, Mayor Cream Cheese! I'm telling you, Baltimare...”

Both ponies argued at the same time they spoke together much to the discomfort of the other delegates.

“Yeah this is going to be ugly.” One delegate commented grateful that he didn’t give Luna a hard time when addressing his issues.

“Oh yeah.” Another delegate agreed.

“Both Baltimare and Cream Cheese haven’t been this upset since…”

“…the last time we saw them.”

Two more delegates added as they prepared to watch the agonizing dispute be settled…after a good chunk of the day which is more or less what the night monarch truly needed.

“Glad that's settled.” Mayor Baltimare said now pleased.

Mayor Cream Cheese chuckled in agreement. “And it only took three hours.”

“That got heated, didn't it?”

“Still on for golf?”

“Oh, absolutely.”

Hours continued to slowly tick away as the poor and exhausted princess is beginning to realize she is not her sister in that matter nor did she find it as easy as she originally expected.

Deep down she began to feel that if this is what Celestia had to put up with on a daily basis, then maybe she could find it in her heart to forgive for not seeing her floral decorations to which admittedly were placed in areas that would be hard to see at first glance. And yet despite that, she still managed to find time every morning to make breakfast to which she barely took the time to show appreciation for that, instead ignoring it and going straight to bed. By then it was clear that she does owe her sister an apology after all of this is over.

At last, the end of the daytime shift came and the delegates all left to go home for the day.

But for Princess Luna, she was left completely spent after putting up with 24 hours of straight-up hard work both night and day. Never before did she ever feel this way but at least she had enough energy to lower the sun when it was time for it to set.

“Congratulations.”

“You made it to the end of the day.”

Both Kion and Twilight complimented.

“Oh, great.” Luna said with a deep yawn. “Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going to just turn in for the rest of the night. Good night Nion, Fulay, Twinight.” She then walked off ahead with barely open eyes on towards her quarters so she can get some much-needed rest with Fuli quick to join her so she can make it there without any injuries. At the same time, Scar wearing his doctor disguise tiptoed his way after her with a needle and vial held delicately in his coat pocket while both Shupavu and Njano both watch and monitor their progress unnoticed up on the walls and through the pots of lavender flowers on the high hooks.

Just seconds after she had retired her sister Princess Celestia came trotting out alongside both Sally and Sassy. Because they managed to sleep through the day Celestia was much more energetic compared to Luna on par with the two cheetahs 24/7.

"Ah." Sassy yawned as she fully woke herself up. "Wow! That felt great! I don’t I have ever slept that comfortable before in my life.”

“Sassy, we’ve that comfortable almost every other day. It’s nothing new.” Sally returned to give a reality check to her.

“I know, but those beds are so fluffy and comfortable. How could you do better than that?”

“True. True.” Sally commented in agreement.

”Anyways…” Celestia then said turning to both the prince and princess. “…now that I’m awake and well. Where's Luna?"

"She turned herself in for the night.” Twilight explained to Celestia.

“She had a very long and rough day." Kion added.

"Really?" Celestia commented with concern, before finding herself snickering. "Well it seems my duties were harder than she expected it to be. Oh well.” She shrugged seeing that her sister paid the price for biting off more than she could chew. “Now it’s my turn to handle her royal duties for tonight, which I‘m quite sure and I can handle for one night.”

“Of course you can.” Sassy was quick to support that claim. “I mean watching over other ponies dreams? How hard can it be?”

Twilight wearily sighed as Kion was quick to speak up. “If Luna had it really tough today, then I’m sure the answer is very hard.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“You’ll find out.” Kion said before yawning himself and heading on towards his royal bedroom for the night. “I’m going to turn in for the night.”

“Me too!” Spike yawned in agreement.

But before doing so Kion quickly turned back to the lavender coated princess with one more thing to say. “Oh and Twilight…please try not to stay up too late.”

“I’ll try.” Twilight said as if to say “I can’t make any promises on that.”

"You can be sure of that. Both you and Luna." Ushari sinisterly said in her direction as he stealthy pursed her with a needle and empty vial in his coils.

In no time at all the moon was raised into the night sky, to which the sun princess smiled at her own success. "Moon raised right on schedule," She told herself with pride as she then turned to Twilight. "Now then, Twilight, why don't you and I..."

But no sooner that she did so, Twilight had fallen asleep on the balcony next to her former mentor with her snores within her hearing range.

Celestia then sighed before using her magic to tuck her in her bed mentally wishing that she could have stayed up so they take the night to talk together. But of course she had to remind herself she was never a night pony with the sole exceptions of her having nightmares and dealing with frightening storms.

“Just like old times.” Celestia commented to herself to which both cheetahs heard from nearby.

“Is that so?” Sally asked looking intrigued. “You and Twilight have a special bond together?”

“Yes.” Celestia smiled warmly in return. “I’ve known her since she was a filly enrolling in my school of magic. From the very moment she showed great potential with magic I’ve taken her on as my student, my prized and most faithful pupil and protégé. Over the years I’ve watched her grow stronger and more powerful with every passing day with great pride of how well she was starting out to be. Sure she has her flaws but deep down she is a pony with a big heart who wants nothing more to excel in life. To me, it was like raising a daughter I never had before.”

“Wow.”

“That’s deep.”

The cheetahs commented clearly amazed with learning the hidden depths behind it.

“I know.”

“I only wish the same could be said about us and Fuli.” Sally personally commented hoping that is not a futile wish to ask for in life. “I mean I know now what did was wrong but I still can’t but my claw on what exactly we did to hurt her back then other than causing her to lose a friend to spend time with?”

“Well…” Celestia wasn’t sure of how to answer that right now. “…maybe someday, first thing in the morning if lucky.”

Deep down Celestia wished she could stand by Twilight’s side and watch over her, but she had to remind herself a deal is a deal, she had to tend to Luna's royal duties and ad to leave her former prized pupil to rest on her own. Before Celestia left her bedroom though, she made sure to re-examine the checklist Twilight and Spike had given her before setting out to carry them out.

"Okay, everypony’s asleep which means now it’s time to enter the dream realm." Stepping out onto the balcony that got her a good scope of the whole city down below, Celestia noticed that all of the lights in the houses below were switching off. At that moment every single light was now black and dim meaning she can now get started and enter the dream realm.

"Okay…good.” She said out loud and quickly realized. "Oh, you're talking to yourself, princess. But... there's no one else to talk to out here!"

“Expect us.” Sassy commented from right beside her along Sally.

“Oh, right.” Celestia sheepishly returned. “Sometimes I can quite silly. Anyways, I can talk to ponies in their dreams so this should be doable."

Lighting up her horn with ease, Princess Celestia used her magic to enter the dream realm alongside Sally and Sassy. There various bubbles floated around them, each representing and showcasing the dream of a different pony.

Just after the three had disappeared, Ushari wearing his doctor coat quickly slithered out of the room with a vial of Twilight's blood. Upon exiting the room he is finds Scar waiting for him with two more blood vials in his possession along with Starlight, Shupavu, and Njano so he can group teleport themselves out of here.

A few in particular caught her eye: Applejack was dreaming of herself as a foal under her parent’s care. Discord (interestingly) was dreaming about having a pillow fight with The Smooze in a normal well-behaved fashion. Princess Cadence dreaming of herself along with a small figure being DJ’s, wearing matching black shades and sitting atop a turntable as Cadence bobbed her head to the beat of the music. And Gummy appeared to be dreaming of himself as a king, perched atop a pile of gold and holding a royal scepter in his mouth.

Even though it has been so long, it all brings back memories for the sun princess herself while at the same time the cheetahs were looking on at the fascinating and interesting things everyone’s dreaming about with so many questions to ask about it if they could. But their real focus was the dream of Fuli and the male cheetah that was once here in the Pride Lands both looking in each other's eyes while racing side by side together like they are the perfect cheetahs for each other. Thicker than water. Stronger than glue. Like peanut butter and chocolate together forever. It was like true love at first sight for them which sadly was crushed long ago due to their friends petty disputes with one another.

Upon seeing that sight had both cheetahs looking on with a regretful realization and great guilt surfacing up on their remorse-filled faces as their insensitive actions towards Fuli both past and present without realizing it cost her that wonderful feeling and paved way to her current attitude that only softened when she befriended Kion and the Lion Guard and then later Twilight and the Pony Guard.

"This is great! Now I just need to help ponies with their nightmares. And they're not actually real so that shouldn't be a problem!" She boasted to herself before realizing once more. "Oh, you're talking to yourself again, princess.

"You sure are!" Sassy was quick to remark. "If other ponies and lions hear you talking like that they will think you're crazy."

"Thanks for the tip." Sally sarcastically remarked finding it to be completely unnecessary.

"What?" Sassy briefly looked at her confused. "No, I wasn't talking about you."

Suddenly before it could devolve into an brief argument, Celestia heard a scream of fright. Knowing who’s scream that was she quickly rushed over to the source of said pony now having a bad dream. And since she was the only one who could access the dream realm it was her responsibility to help said pony out to which she quickly did without hesitation. Instantly she leaped into action, heading towards the source ready to tackle it head on.

Said pony suffering a bad dream turned out to be Twilight, who was screaming as she appeared to falling down an endless hole. All the while pancake faces not unlike the ones Princess Celestia had made yesterday were staring at her, repeating over and over again, "I care." in a way that sounded more menacing in the dream than it had ever sounded than originally. She continued to fall downwards, until she finally landed on a bed of lavender flowers. But it was only momentarily when she fell through the flowers as if they were the surface of a deep body of water.

When she truly stopped falling, Twilight found herself staring an angry Kion who is showing absolute fury in her direction as evident by the gritting teeth he is currently sporting.

“You lied to me Twilight! Not only did you put everyone’s lives in danger but you also betrayed us all!”

“But…no…Kion. I didn’t! It wasn’t like that! You don’t understand!” She desperately pleaded. But his mind was resolute in the matter for he had already turned his back on her. “Please! No! Kion!...” She screamed as tears streamed from her face along with seeing the horrible sight of her friends and loved ones plummeting to their fiery demise into a pit of lava courtesy of none other than Scar.

“Sisi Ni Sawa, Twilight!” He laughed madly before quickly moving to backhand her away from the volcano and towards a stream of flowing lava while relishing at the sight of her screaming to her demise.

From there Princess Celestia had seen enough as she entered her dream and landed in front of Twilight, changing the environment to the throne room of Canterlot.

"Twilight!" She exclaimed with motherly comfort. "It's okay, you’re safe now! It was all just a bad dream!"

But even seeing a loving figure right in front of her had Twilight continuing her sobbing... "None of this was supposed to happen! When I set up this get together at dinner last night, it was only meant to help both you and Luna bond more, and the same for Fuli along both Sally and Sassy, not further drive you all apart.“

“What are you talking about?”

“How did you ruin a friendship that has already been fractured?”

Both cheetahs asked like they really don’t understand why.

She further cried in devastation. “If you and Princess Luna can't see why you need each other then..." She gulped as she trailed off when...

"Then I am back!" A familiar voice cackled as the past and familiar figure suddenly appeared before them after literally ripping a hole in the dream fabric. Someone that no one would ever expect to see again. "At last, free again!" Nightmare Moon declared with a devilish grin.

Celestia threw up a wing and a force field to shield Twilight, Sally, and Sassy. "Don’t worry Twilight!" She assured her former student. "I know how to handle Nightmare Moon!"

But just then a voice that sounded like Celestia called out from the shadows. "Is that so? I think the more accurate question to ask is can you handle the likes of me?!" Said figure emerged from the shadows and revealed herself as an exact look-alike of Princess Celestia but with a fiery red and orange mane, tail, and décor, and looked more like a copy of Nightmare Moon.

Princess Celestia reeled back in surprise as her eyes widen in horror at the very sight. "No, it can't be!"

“What?”

“How?”

Both Sally and Sassy breathlessly uttered equally horrified.

The evil Celestia cackled in response as she approached her good counterpart. "Oh it is, Celestia! And I assure you all it’s very, very real. I mean if Princess Luna can turn into Nightmare Moon, you can absolutely turn into me, Daybreaker. The better, stronger, and if I'm being completely honest, much prettier version of you."

Sassy felt the need to beg to differ. “Um, no offense but how is becoming evil make you better than before let alone prettier. I mean shouldn’t evil turn you into being ugly? I mean hello? What you really need to do is…”

“SILENCE!” She shouted as Sassy finds herself scorched and burned by Daybreaker’s fiery magic much to Twilight, Sally, and Celestia’s horror.

“Is it hot in here or what…” Sassy uttered before falling back and passing out.

“Sassy!” Sally cried out before turning to the fiery alicorn feeling furious herself for that unjustified attack. “You fiend! You hurt my friend. You’re not a princess you’re a bully and a liar!”

“Oh is that right?!” Daybreaker returned with false modesty. “I’m sorry here…” She offered. “…let me help you see clearly!” She suddenly flashed a bright blinding light in her direction sent directly in her eyes.

“MY EYES!” She screamed while covering them with her paws and falling backwards with the inability to see due to its powerful glare. “THEY’RE BURNING!”

“That’s right! Because I’m burning hot with beauty just like yours truly.” Daybreaker tauntingly remarked in her good counterpart’s direction which proved to be more than enough to enrage her good counterpart to spurring to action while Twilight tends to both Sally and Sassy.

“Enough! You will cease your attack now and so will you Nightmare Moon. I defeated you once and I can do it again!” She firmly and furiously declared.

Daybreaker scoffed in response to her defiance. "Ha! You don’t have the power to defeat me! Not as long you keep holding on to the very idea of allowing kindness into your heart and allowing yourself others to hold yourself down from your true potential. You don't need anypony. You can do whatever you want. And all you have to do is get rid of anypony who stands in your way!” With enough said on her part she then turned her attention to Nightmare Moon and quickly hurled a massive fireball which sent her flying backwards upon impact. But being her equal Nightmare Moon was quick to recover from it. "I never should've banished you, oh sister of mine. I should've destroyed you when I had the chance!"

“And so should I when I had that chance!” Nightmare bitterly returned. “Instead of spending the last thousand years of my life constantly staying in your shadow! You overrated, overacting ham! In fact, while we’re at why don’t you give it a REST!” She shouted fiery an ice blue burst of magic right at her which struck her in the chest and knocked her downwards similar to how she did the same to the actual Celestia a thousand years ago. “Your resistance is impressive, but pointless! You cannot withstand my superior powers forever! Unless of course you plan on smiling me to smithereens! Even you my sister, are zero compared to me!”

Now infuriated by Luna’s evil alter-ego, Daybreaker roared as she charged head on towards Nightmare Moon where they proceeded to trade blasts of magic with one another where the two proved to be evenly matched as neither one of them gained the edge on one another.

Princess Celestia moved and tried in vain to break up the fight between the two evil alicorns to no avail despite briefly separating them. Much like with Twilight just now they didn't even acknowledge her.

"Ugh, so much black. We get it, you're upset," Daybreaker sarcastically remarked. "You know what I think, I think you could really use some SUN!" She proceeded to fire off another magic blast in Nightmare Moon's direction once more.

All while this was happening Twilight continued bury her teary-eyed face in her hooves with great shame upon seeing what could happen is starting to become a reality before her very eyes while Celestia herself is unsure of how to handle this but she knows for a fact that she is on her own given that she has Luna’s powers right now not her own. Speaking of which…

At the same time, Princess Luna for once is having her own dream during the night. One that is certainly giving her quite some trouble sleeping comfortably tonight and it involves a certain group of children from Las Pegasus chanting with pointed hoofs in her direction.

"That smile's too wide. It's obviously a lie."

When Luna was able to turn herself around she found herself face to face with the children, all of them looking at her very, very sadly to make her feel even more guilty that she already is right now.

"Princess, why don't you want us to go on our field trip? Don't you want us to be happy?" The filly who Luna stood next to her sadly asked

"I don't!" Luna innocently protested and then gasped in horror when she saw two of her front teeth fall out! She quickly corrected herself even more of her teeth started to fall out even more. "I mean, no! It was an accident! I would never ever dream of doing anything hurtful towards you all and I’m not a dream killer!”

But the children weren’t convinced for they continued to circle around her and further chanted. "That smile's too wide. It's obviously a lie."

Suddenly and much to her relief she saw her own sister Princess Celestia appear before her. She quickly hugged her upon seeing her having dropped their most recent quarrel entirely. "Celestia, oh, I'm so glad to see you right now!" Instantly she was pulled through the mirror and into Twilight's dream (all while regaining all of her teeth in the process). Instantly, Luna was able to see what was happening and going on in her mind upon seeing the devastated and sobbing mare with both the knocked out cheetahs by her side. “Is this…”

“I’m afraid so, sister.” Celestia regretfully nodded in reply. “It’s Twilight’s Sparkle’s. She’s afraid this is what will and is going to happen if we continue to fight."

"If you don't fix this soon, it could have grave consequences in Twilight’s psyche. Consequences that’ll leave permanent damage to her psyche that not even a simple act of kindness or any element from the magic of friendship can heal." Luna could only advise her sister.

“But how?! My magic just isn’t powerful enough do it, mine’s nothing compared to yours here.” Celestia cried as she confessed. “I was wrong! Your job is incredibly hard! You have to battle nightmares and work in the darkness and do it all alone!"

“Like I too had it any easier.” Luna in returned as she too confessed. "I walked in a day in your shoes and all I thought you had to do was smile and be adored all the time…but I was wrong too. There is so much more to it than that." Luna confessed in reply. "It takes so much composure not to put up with all of that 24/7 for a thousand years." Then she changed the subject back to the nightmare in front of them. "But even still I can't help you here if I wanted too…” She gestured to the sun cutie mark on her flank. “I still have your magic, remember. It won't work in the dream realm. It has to be you to put end to this once and for all."

“I can’t.” Her sister cried in defeat.

The night princess shook her head and pressed a hoof to her sister's chest. "You can. Trust yourself much like I trust you now. There you’ll find and have the strength you need in order to defeat her." She then observed as Daybreaker appeared to have landed a decisive and injuring blow to Nightmare Moon, leaving the evil dark coated alicorn on the floor and struggling just to get to her hooves. “Good luck!”

“Now!” Daybreaker triumphantly declared as she worked up her magic to deliver the final blow. “Insolent peasent! Prepare to DIE!”

“Celestia! Luna! NO!” Twilight screamed with the memory of her nearly killing her brother replaying in her mind just looking at it.

But just as Daybreaker fired off a blast of magic and Nightmare Moon countered with a blast of her own, Celestia stepped between the two and used her wings to block the powerful beams just before they could connect.

“Enough!” Celestia declared with her voice echoing across the dream. Said voice managed to wake up both Sally and Sassy just when they began regaining their senses. “This fight is over!”

“You don’t have the power to destroy me, Celestia!” Daybreaker defiantly hissed back. “I'm everything you've ever wanted to be!"

"No, you are not! You are not real." Celestia defiantly and firmly stated to her evil counterpart. "And you will never exist again!" She then used her wings to push the magic blasts back towards the evil alicorns thus causing them to vanquish in a golden flash of light.

“NO! NOOOOOOOOO!” Daybreaker furiously screamed. “The power of good is a curse, Celestia! You’ll see! SISI NI SAWAAA!"

Exhausted but triumphant, the sun princess collapsed on the floor of the dream throne room. Her younger sister smiled and cheered while kneeling down at her eye level. "You did it! Well done, sister. And I got to say, that’s quite impressive for a first timer after so many years outside the dream realm."

"Only because you were here to help me, Luna," The day alicorn sighed thinking little about her victory. "I don't know how you do this and every night."

“It just takes practice.” Luna humbly replied before asking. “So, um, did you...talk to yourself?"

Celestia looked aside as she admitted. "Um a little, Yes...do you?"

“Yep.” Luna nodded.

At that moment Twilight finally lifted her head and opened her eyes to see the sight of both sisters hugging each other warmly. "Is this really happening... real?" She worryingly asked out loud. "Or is this all a dream?"

The two sisters both turned to her with Luna being the first to speak. "This is indeed a dream, Twilight Sparkle and everything is all right now. You’ll wake up and see that everyone is safe and unharmed. But one thing is for sure, what you are seeing in regards to us, it is all indeed real."

Celestia then added pegging the big question on their minds. "But if you honestly saw how badly strained our relationship was, why didn't you tell us, Twilight?”

Ashamed, Twilight tried her hardest to look at her former mentor in the eyes as she confessed. "I'm so sorry, I didn’t mean for all of this to happen, really!" She apologized. "It’s just…” She had to calm herself down before continuing. “Ever since I was a filly I've looked up to you. You guided me and given me knowledge and advice and friendship even when I was at a low point in my life back when I was starting off as one of your students back in magic kindergarten. After seeing what happened to you both a thousand years ago along with what happened to me recently. I wanted nothing more than to try to peacefully resolve it before history could repeat. I know what I did was wrong. I should have told you both the truth but after seeing you both fight the other day convinced myself that none of my efforts would work. So I thought to myself that the best way was to handle this quietly so that by the end of the day it’s like it all never happened. But we all saw how that turned out as things instead got out of control."

Celestia softly but sternly sighed. "You had good intentions Twilight, but you should know by now that the truth is always better than a well-meant lie. I mean yes, we do fight ever now and then, but it’s a part of life. Relationships whether between a friend or a lover is nothing without honesty. Even I’m not perfect, I’ve broken plenty of times. If you had just told us right from the start, then this whole mess could have been avoided and we won’t have gone through the whole swapped roles and cutie marks."

“I…I will try.” Twilight said as she wiped off the last of her tears away before looking at both sisters in the eyes. “Can you at least forgive me?”

“Of course, dear Twilight.” Luna gently replied with a warm smile. “How could we not?”

“Well…” Sassy tried to say before being interrupted with a paw to her mouth courtesy of Sally.

“…don’t answer that.”

The three alicorns all got together for a group hug together as the sun began to rise in the walking world just when Twilight’s dream finally came to a peaceful end.

In a flash of light Princess Celestia, Sally, and Sassy all found themselves back in the real world, feeling rather groggy and exhausted.

“Ooh… what a night.”

“I know. And just like that here is the sunrise.”

Both cheetahs commented after the whole experience.

“Couldn’t have said it any better.” Celestia commented in agreement.

Just then Princess Luna along with Fuli, Twilight, and Kion all came to greet them.

“Welcome back, dear sister." She warmly smiled. "I know you had a long night, so I thought I'd return the favor and make breakfast for you to enjoy." She then offered up a plate of rather stale and crusty looking pancakes.

Celestia reluctantly took a bite from the offered stack. Truthfully they were really bad, but she forced herself to swallow them and smile as she told her sister. "They're... delicious."

Luna saw through the ruse immediately and laughed. "I know that face. What did you just talk to Twilight just recently?" And then she added. "They're not delicious at all, are they? I know you have to put on a face and pretend to be interested in what those stuffy delegates have to say day in and day out, but you don't have to do it for me."

The sun princess smiled as she then admitted. "In that case, these are terrible," She tossed the bad pancakes over the balcony along with the plate which shattered upon landing on the ground. "I’ll teach you first thing tomorrow morning on how make them, that is of course when I’m well rested."

“I can wait until then.” Luna replied very accepting of her wishes.

“Me too.” Fuli said in agreement before turning to both cheetahs. “However, I do have something that needs to be said now before you both retire for the night.” She took a deep calming breath before continuing. “Sally, Sassy, I’m sorry for the way I acted towards you both ever since you found me. I was so distraught over losing a friend that I could never find it in my heart to forgive you both for driving him away and refused to believe that you both were truly sincere and regretful for what happened back then. So, can you both at least try to forgive me? I’ll understand if you say no.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Of course we forgive you!”

“Really?”

“Heck yeah!” Sassy firmly assured. “What kind of friends would that make us?”

“Pretty lousy friends, I guess.”

“Oh, stop!” Sassy laughed it off along with Sally taking great humor in Fuli’s sass-back.

“That said we too would like to apologize for how insensitive we were back then. Up until now we never understood why you truly were upset with us. If only we had realized that sooner we would have chased after him or better yet stopped our needless quarrelling before that could even happen. Then you never would have lost the potential love of your life.”

“What?” Fuli blinked in surprise with her cheeks turning pink. “I never told you both that?!” She then mentally cursed herself upon realizing what she just said.

“You didn’t.” Sally turned to the sun princess. “Thanks to a trip to the dream realm, we figured it out from there.”

“And truth be told, Fuli, we didn’t spend all of that time away from the Pride Lands just to live the life of tourism, but part of was trying to find him and apologize for driving him away from us.” Sassy added as the recalled their travelling journeys together. “We looked every possible area he might of ran off too, but found no trace no whiff of him.”

Sally then spoke next. “That said we’re really sorry for breaking your heart back then. If only we had taken the time to fully understand that before it even began none of this would have happened.”

“Sassy…” Fuli spoke to get her stop talking before she could go on and on with her apology. “…it’s okay. We were all young back then, and you both didn’t know. Not everyone at that age can be expected to know any better.” She then sighed. “But is still painful knowing that he is long gone.”

“Maybe, maybe not.” Sassy optimistically said otherwise. “Maybe you’ll find him someday and who knows maybe you’ll reunite with your one true love again.”

Fuli’s cheeks then turned red. “Sassy!”

“Come on, Fuli.” Sassy gave her a friendly nudge. “No offense, you know full well that you are not going to find another cheetah like him in a hundred years.”

“Trust us on this one…” Luna chimed in. “…we know. We looked.”

Fuli then turned back to the girls. “In the meantime at least I know you girls both tried for me and that’s the thought that counts.”

The three friends now fully having their friendship rekindled got together for a warm group hug for the first time in years to which all three cheetahs kindly returned the embrace with one another much to the delight and proud smiles of their friends standing before them watching on with Twilight even shedding tears of joy at the sight just when the alicorn sisters cutie marks returned to normal.

“Well said, Fuli.” Luna complimented and then yawned. “And since I got a rescheduled photo shoot with the children of Las Pegasus coming up, I’m going to get some much needed rest before that happens. After I did promise myself that I would never disappoint them again." She flew off just seconds after she and Celestia had their cuties marks return to normal.

“And I’ve got my daily royal duties to attend to.” Celestia said as she blinked with tired eyes. “Twilight, Kion, would you both kindly assist with me with my schedule and in case if I start to fall asleep on the job?”

“Of course, Princess Celestia.”

“Be more than happy to.”

“Thank you, both.”

As Kion walked by the princess’s side along with the cheetahs, Twilight ran off ahead so she can fetch the schedule along with another pot of coffee since it’s pretty clear that Celestia’s day has only just begun.

As she was making her way to do so, she then pondered of what she witnessed and felt back then and couldn’t fully understand what was really happening back there. But she knew for certain that it was no accident that it just happened on it’s on. For she correctly knows somehow this is Scar’s doing.

Speaking of said lion/alicorn…

“Well done, Ushari, Starlight, and skinks.” He commended upon possessing the blood vials in his magical grasp.

“But we didn’t get to break up their friendship back there.” Starlight complained. “We were so close!”

“I know.” Scar calmly understood her frustration. “But you know we couldn’t more about it even if we wanted to.”

“I know. But why did we go through with all of that anyways? It’s like we came back with nothing.”

“Not true, Starlight. And that’s because…” Scar showed her the vials they’ve obtained during their secret visit there. “…with the power and magic inside of them these will prove to be the gateway to many victories to come and you know what’s coming next?” He showed her the visual of the purple alicorn princess puzzled and pondering in thought with what happened the last 24 hours.

“I’ll give you a hint…” Njano interjected. “…it’s something very, very, bad.”

“And it involves lots and lots of fire.” Shupuavu added sinisterly while eyeing the lava pit in front of them.

Starlight took one good look at it before smiling wickedly upon remembering what is soon to come for her arch-enemy and its right around the corner. “Yes. Yes I do.”

“Well said, Starlight.” Ushari said in agreement.

“Great.” Scar nodded in satisfaction as he eyes the many tired eyes around both kingdoms along with the peacefully sleeping Princess Luna. “And all that is left now is to let everyone have a good night’s sleep before the big day. A day where it all started for me.” He eyed the room where the whole war started, the place where he made his appearance well known to the public and to the Royal Family along with the Lion and Pony Guard for the very first time. “A day that’ll soon end for Twilight…” He then chuckled to himself as he sported an evil smirk as the days toward D-Day are now counting down, one by one…

Author's Note

For this part, I got to admit was pretty difficult knowing I'd be exploring more into Fuli's backstory more which meant new ideas and dialogue to come up with but upon getting the idea of another friendship pair that needs fences to be amended I managed to get a good feel of how tackle not one but two friendship problems in one large part and some more while I was at it.

Much like the Royal Problem, Celestia and Luna are at each other's throats to the point they swapped cutie marks over it and their daily royal duties because of it. But during this time it did turn out for the better mainly because it also helped the cheetahs amend their fences at the same time.

Fuli and Luna got some bonding together along with seeing eye to eye with one another and in their own way managed to help each other come to terms to forgive their respective friends while the same can be said for Sassy and Sally spending time with Celestia.

After a long day and night with a harrowing nightmare courtesy of Twilight and the appearance of Nightmare Moon and Daybreaker, both parties came to forgive one another and further rekindled and restrengthen their friendship together coming to understand one another. So in the end it all works out.

As for what Scar and his cronies are doing, well that's another story...

But in the meantime, that's it for this part and we get back we will see the Lion and Pony Guard dealing with another nightmare threat in the dream realm with Princess Luna doing the best she can do to help them while coming to terms with her internal struggle while she's at it so stay tuned...

Episode 19: Do Princess Dream of Magic Sheep?

Episode 19:

Do Princesses Dream of Magic Sheep

The Lion and Pony Guard are all charging on all four hooves and paws with the flyers flying alongside them across the hallways. They were on their way to stop their latest enemy all while hoping they can pull through as always.

Inside the throne room of the old castle, Princess Luna stood on her old throne awaiting patiently as she hears the sound of hoofs and paws growing louder in her direction. She knows that help is arriving her way. Beside her a strange floating creature made out entirely of purple smoke and night-like substance appeared similar to a previous nightmare episode from a previous movie. The look on her face makes it clear Luna was expecting it.

"Greetings, Tantabus. I am ready. Do your worst."

The Tantabus then shielded the sun that was seen behind the princess, causing an eclipse and the darkness to surround the night princess. She could feel the darkness growing within her once more.

All twelve friends stopped before the throne and gasped in horror as they all arrived in time to witness what is happening before their eyes.

"Princess Luna's turning into Nightmare Moon. Again!" Twilight stated.

“We got to stop it!” Kion also declared.

The creature of the night laughed at them triumphantly as Scar’s laughter is heard once more as he appeared before them in the shadows with his eyes glowing red. He looked on them relishing his revival once more as he got his magic working ready to unleash on them.

But the Lion and Pony Guard were ready for all of that.

"Yeah? Well, we've got the cure for that!" Rainbow Dash confidently said as they all huddled together just when Scar unleashed his magic against them.

With Twilight’s eyes glowing white, a huge white blinding light engulfed the crew. Once it cleared up, they all now had their shining Rainbow Power transformations they had when they restored the Pride Lands and Equestria to its previous glory after Scar was defeated.

Instantly, colorful rays were aimed at the creature, but their magic seemed to have no effect on the creature or Scar as the latter managed to force them back without effort.

Scar simply shook his head rather amused. “Big talk and little cure you got there. You all done?”

Twilight simply replied. “No. Not yet.”

She increased the power of her magic at the same Kion did along with the latter narrowing his eyes as he prepared to use the Roar on them. When it happened Nightmare Moon’s triumphant attitude was replaced with shock when the Tantabus did something she never expected.

"Wait! What is it doing?!"

Upon realizing what is happening, Scar decided it was best to cut his losses and teleport away from the scene before it could get worse for himself as the creature managed to tear open a hole into the very fabric before disappearing into it. NightMare Moon was horrified.

"No! It's gone!" Nightmare Moon shouted in horror just when she is suddenly enwrapped by the combined powers from the Great Kings of the Past and Rainbow Magic. In ten seconds flat, she has returned to being Princess Luna.

After recovering from it, Luna was left in a state of shock with what the Lion and Pony Guard just did as they all welcomed her in a group hug, all cheering and celebrating their victory.

Luna gasped once she opened her eyes and awake from her dream. Unlike anyone who have her mind she is not happy about it.

"What? My dream ended... happily? That. Cannot. Happen!"

On another bright and sunny day at Carousel Boutique, the Pony Guard’s all together for their pet grooming day. Rainbow Dash cleaning Tank’s shell, Twilight was brushing Owlowiscious, while Fuli, one of the sole Lion Guard member here, was doing the same with her little cat friend, with Applejack doing the same for Winona, with Rarity doing the same for Opal, with Fluttershy doing the same for Angel.

"Ooh, this is amazing!" Pinkie Pie said as she hoped around the shop.

Rainbow Dash yawned. "Yeah, Rarity. Thanks for setting all this up." She tried to be happy but could not mask how tired she really is. She had dark circles under her eyes along with the Lion Guard crew present with the sole exceptions being Pinkie Pie and Bunga (at least they are trying to be).

"A grooming day for our pets really was a great idea." Fluttershy said also tired herself while she and everyone else tried to mask the same feeling they are all experiencing.

Rarity continued to brush Opal's tail but slowly started to doze off, not watching where she was brushing. The sharp ends of the comb touched Opal's rump causing her to scream in pain. Rarity ended up waking up because of it with the first thing she sees is her terrified pet cat hanging for life on the ceiling.

"Oh, my! Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't get my normal beauty sleep last night…"

Opalescence still angrily hissed back at her in response.

Bunga having somersaulting his way by them commented. "I can tell. You guys don't look so good." He yawns himself. “Whew. Come to think of it I didn’t think I got much sleep last night.”

Twilight yawned. "You could say that again because I didn’t sleep well either.“ She said also sounding very tired and sleepy. “How about you Fuli…? Fuli?” Everyone turned their heads turned to her…who was already snoring while cuddling close to her kitten friend like they’re very close together. “What do you think? Should we wake her?”

Everyone thankfully decided to shake their heads against it. “Nah!”

“Ooh, ooh…” Bunga said before being interrupted by Twilight who froze him with her magic along with Pinkie. She shook her head against the obvious idea on their minds. “…I mean, never mind. We’ll let her sleep for now.”

“Good idea…” Fuli muttered in her sleep much to the honey badger’s surprise. “…because I definitely need it.”

“Wow.” Rainbow commented with another yawn. “Guess I’m not the only who hasn’t gotten enough rest here, am I?”

The others all said “uh-huh.” in agreement.

"I'm totally beat too!" Pinkie happily commented as she and Bunga somersaulted across the room.

Applejack was just about to fall asleep when her dog’s barking got her sudden attention. "Alright, Winona. Time for your brushing'." She placed her hoof across the table trying to grab a brush, only to miss them and accidentally grab Gummy instead. She ended up dozing off again which resulted in Gummy biting on Winona's ear, making her yelp in pain and caused her owner to wake up again.

Winona shook her head to get Gummy off, and the littler gator jumped onto Owlowisious's head. The owl flew up, trying to get the gator off, accidentally knocking Twilight who tripped and fell into the bathtub for their pets.

Applejack realized her mistake and Winona rubbed her ear on the counter but not without frowning at her. "Oops. I guess I'm too plum tuckered out to do this right."

There was a knock on the door with Kion, Beshte, and Ono (who slept on the former’s back) all walking inside with Kyoga using her magic to help them stay awake and on their paws.

Rarity having noticed this was the first to comment. “Good heavens! You guy’s too!”

“Yep.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Affirmative.”

“Afraid so.”

Applejack then said as she figured along with everyone else. “Don’t tell us. Bad dream that keep ya up all night?”

“Yep.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Affirmative.”

“Afraid so.”

Kion yawned as he tried to fight off the urge to sleep as he tried to explain. “And that’s even after I went to bed early last night.”

Fluttershy yawned. “Me too! But then I had a really scary nightmare!”

“Really?” Kion asked with his eyes opened wide in response.

"Me too! Uh-huh!" Everyone else replied at the exact same time.

"Uh, only, you know, I didn't think mine was that scary!" Rainbow Dash commented, trying to put on the brave act.

“Doubt it.” Fuli commented seeing through her attempt to insist otherwise while still sleeping.

"Well, mine sure was." said Twilight, who was now wet from the bath water, "There was this blue smoke monster and…" She briefly stopped when everyone including Fuli (minus Spike and Kyoga) stared at her with shock, "..what?"

"I dreamt about a blue smoke thingy too!" Fluttershy commented first.

"Me too!" The others stated in agreement.

Rainbow Dash only scoffed, as she moved to place her hooves behind her head while lounging in midair, "So what? Probably just a coincidence."

“Awfully big if you ask me.” Fuli commented while shaking her head.

“She’s right.“ Twilight agreed as she stepped out of the bathtub with Spike handing her a towel to dry off with. "And the thing is given we all experienced something similar beforehand it’s more than just a simple coincidence."

Ono yawned as he woke up and moved to stand on the hippo’s back. “I mean it makes sense given the whole Nightmare Moon fiasco along with the whole Midnight Sparkle and Nightmare Rarity attempted takeover. No offense…” He quickly added.

“It’s okay, darling.”

“None taken.”

They both replied knowing full well it wasn’t an insult aimed directly at them.

Spike however was confused. “Huh. I wonder why I didn't have that nightmare. I slept great!" He said rather proudly.

“Maybe because you weren’t involved in any of the dreams everyone else had related to them.” Kyoga answered while eyeing the little dragon against basking about being able to sleep over them.

“But what you?” Kion wondered as he turned to face her. “Why were you affected?”

“Because I have managed to develop a close bond with the pony who used to be Nightmare Moon even though I wasn’t there when it happened.” She then turned to Twilight hoping she has an explanation for that given her role in their previous sleepless night episode. “Any idea how else?”

"I don't know," Twilight commented unsure of the answer herself before smiling of a way to find out the answer. ", but I do know who might. Spike, could you send a scroll to Princess Luna?"

"Sure!"

Once Twilight was done drying herself, Spike placed the towels down and grabbed a paper and quill.

"All set!"

Twilight spoke up first while Spike wrote down every word, "Dear Princess Luna, last night my friends and I all dreamt of a creature made of blue smoke. I'm sure you're very busy, but" She briefly stopped to yawn, "when you have the chance, please let me know if you have any idea what it could mean. Yours," She yawned again before continuing. "Princess Twilight Sparkle. You can leave out the yawns."

Spike sheepishly grinned as he scratched off the 'yawns' he had written before rolling up the scroll and breathing fire to magically send it to Princess Luna.

The door immediately flew open and the princess of the night arrived…right after she sent the letter.

"Which of you saw the creature of blue smoke in your nightmare?!"

"Wow. That was fast." Fuli commented finding herself surprised.

"We all did." Twilight said on behalf of everyone in the room.

“Not me!” Spike reminded everyone rather smugly which earned him glares from Twilight, Fuli, Kyoga, and Kion.

“Ugh, we know!” They all replied simultaneously.

“I mean…never mind.”

“Good choice of words.” Kyoga commented while patting him on the back for widely knowing when to put down the shovel.

"So you've encountered the smoke monster too?" Kion asked turning his attention back to the night princess who walked inside the boutique looking on feeling very guilty and regretful with what has happened just recently.

"The Tantabus is a creature of my nightmares. It escaped from my slumbers yesterday." She explained.

"But how did it get into ours?" Fluttershy asked with worry.

"The Tantabus is like a parasite. My dreams must no longer be enough for it. Now it seeks others to infect and corrupt. It must have learned of you twelve from seeing you in my dream."

“But your majesty…” Ono commented with his input on the matter. “…Luna…” he quickly corrected himself hastily after reminding himself that this is a casual visit not a royal one. “…Kyoga wasn’t there when you were Nightmare Moon.”

“True. But I’m sure she had told you by now we grew a close bond together ever since we first met.”

“Yes, though I do wonder how I was affected and how I saw it in my dreams.” Kyoga said rather sternly and annoyed as her shifted to Twilight once more, who groaned in annoyance in response.

“Okay yes. I had a hand in influencing some of her dreams back when I was becoming Midnight Sparkle and I’m sorry for that.” She admitted rather angrily. “But that doesn’t mean I had anything to do with this!” She pointed towards the dark circles around her eyes as proof before turning around with crossed arms.

“Okay, okay….” Kyoga backed off. “…I’m sorry.” She sighed acknowledging that she was too quick to act on frustration due to her own lack of sleep.

“Me too.”

“Um…about that…” Bunga spoke up rather reluctantly while dragging his feet on the ground and having his upper claws behind his back. “…I may have been the one to have dreamed about you. Fighting Rainbow Dash after she unintentionally insulted you from when we’re all trying to warm up to you as a friend.”

“Really?” Both Rainbow and Kyoga spoke together highly surprised.

“Yep. With me as a referee and a spectator alongside Spike.”

“Really?” Spike spoke next as he realized. " Whoa-whoa-whoa. If that’s true then how come I didn’t have trouble sleeping last night?”

“Probably because this Tanatabus creature didn’t find you very interesting.” Bunga replied the best way he can hoping he can avoid glares and scowls from the others. “I mean, really. Considering he didn’t face off against Nightmare Moon, what reason did this creature have to gain from messing around with his nightmares?”

While they predictably did give him the look at first, they softened up after silently realizing it is actually true and he is right for once.

“Um…not any reason I can think of.” Applejack honestly admitted. “Shoot. I can’t believe that there’s actually a good point.”

He then proudly and smugly placed his arms on his hips. “Well they don’t call me…”

“Bunga.” Kion shook his head against saying another word.

“Please stop right there.” Twilight also interjected. “We don’t need to go through all of that again for the third time.” Before Bunga could speak up. “Regardless whether it’s the charm or not.”

Moving aside from that Rainbow shrugged in response to the current issue at hoof and paw. “Uh, so Smokey gave us bad dreams. No biggie."

But Princess Luna shook her head insisting otherwise. "I saw that the Tantabus had grown more powerful, but I did not realize that power was enough to enable it to escape my dreams. If its power grows, it could very well find a way to escape into the real world. It could turn all of Equestria into a living nightmare!"

The current mood everyone was feeling suddenly became grim with that explanation. Rainbow's attitude did a whole and literal 180 upon hearing the grave severity of the situation. "Okay, okay, okay, I take it back! That does sound bad! Really bad!"

“Indeed.” Luna firmly stated.

“So that being said…” Twilight spoke next. “…I think the best course of action is for all of us to have a sleepover together.”

“You mean…” Pinkie eagerly asked as Twilight nodded.

“Yes, Pinkie…” Twilight nodded. “…my castle, at sundown tonight.”

“Yes!” Bunga pumped his fists in the air as Pinkie leaped up in the air in excitement.

“Woohoo!”

“Great.” Fuli replied as she went back to sleep alongside her cat friend. “Wake me up until then.”

“Aw to hay with it.” Ono groaned before falling asleep himself. “I can’t take much more of this tired eye stuff tonight. I’m going to get some shut-eye now.”

As the cheetah resumed sleeping Bunga once more asked. “Are you sure we should…”

“No.” Both Kion and Twilight firmly answered while shaking their heads against it.

“But what about…” He pointed to said kitten snuggled up next to her.

“Talk about this and you’re dead.” She interuppted with her eyes closed.

And that was enough to get the honey badger to stop talking.

To both Fuli and Ono, sure they might have some bad dreams, but it’s worth being able to endure them if it means catching up on sleep.

That night at Twilight's castle, her bedroom was all set up and arranged for the Lion and Pony Guard to sleep in.

"We've prepared everything exactly as you requested." The alicorn told Luna as she floated though the center of the room ready to help her friends.

"Good. As you all slumber here, I will pursue the creature into whichever of your dreams it infests."

Pinkie Pie jumped onto her own bed ready to do it. "Ooh! It'll be like a princess sleepover!"

"Speaking of princesses, aren't you gonna ask Celestia for her help as well?" Twilight asked as she got into her own bed.

But the dark blue alicorn shook her head against it. "There is nothing my sister can do. She has no power in the realm of sleep. Only I can move from dream to dream. I am afraid nopony can help me tonight."

"Even us?" Kion asked.

"Especially you. You have all suffered so much because of me. You need only slumber while I hunt the Tantabus in your dreams." She felt someone tug on her long sparkling blue mane and saw it was Spike when she turned in his direction.

"I know you said nopony can help, but I'm no pony!" He crawled up onto one of the extra beds so he can look at everyone from above. "I'm gonna stay up and watch over you guys just in case!"

“And so can I.” Fuli vowed as she moved to circle around her friend’s beds.

“I can keep watch while you’re all asleep, too.” Ono also vowed as he flapped up into the air.

"Aw, thanks you guys!" Twilight said very appreciative of the kind gestures of the two of them.

Applejack stretched and yawned. "Well, one good thing about not sleeping well last night, shouldn't be too hard to fall asleep now." She then got startled and freaked out when Pinkie Pie suddenly popped up from under her sheets.

"Are you kidding?! This is so exciting, I don't know how I'm ever going to—" Instantly, Pinkie fell asleep and was now snoring.

One by one, everyone got themselves comfortable in their beds and fell asleep while Spike, Ono, and Fuli all watched over them.

After most of the Guard fell into a deep slumber, Princess Luna spread out her wings, activating her magic. The lines of her horn glowed to reach the very tip. Twelve glowing white streams appeared, attaching themselves to the foreheads of the ones deep in slumber.

A soft wind surrounded Luna as she began traveling into her friends' dreams starting with Rarity's…

In her dream she is currently creating new and identical fancy pink dresses with each and every one of them going on matching pony-quiens.

"Oh! This is simply divine! How avant garde!" She remarked to herself as she gets a good look at her work.

“Glad you feel that way, Rarity.” Said dress-wearer commented as she cackled and revealed herself as the malicious jackal leader. “Because we are in the mood for dinner with you tonight!” One by one the other jackals all turned their heads towards her all grinning and sporting their vicously hungry teeth ready to feast on a circled and surrounded unicorn.

Given that this was all unexpected, she could only look on in shock and worry as she finds herself outnumbered by predators out for her blood.

"Forget avant garde! I should have said 'en garde!"

The jackals all came right at her all at once, but Rarity managed to leap over them and blast them away with her magic.

From above a strong gust of wind appeared and sent the jackals all flying away with the sole exception of Rarity who used her magic to keep herself firmly planted into the ground. When she looked up she saw something floating down towards her. A moon coated alicorn shape belonging to Princess Luna who appeared to her in her normal form.

"It is here!"

She spotted the Tantabus moving around disguised as one of the jackals who along with the others have recovered and managed to circle around the two ponies once more.

Rarity had her hooves and horn ready for a fight. “All right. You want to fight and bring it.” She motioned for the jackals to try to make a move on her with every single one of them all very quick to pounce on the offer.

Doing what her dear friend Twilight do in a tight situation like this she charged on ahead giving one of the jackals a good magic blast to the face while performing a split-kick on the two jackals right in front of her. As soon as she went ahead the remaining jackals all ended up dogpiling each other by accident.

The Tantabus appeared again as one of the jackals their leader, Reirei, trying to make a sneak attack on the unicorn. She managed to bite onto her dress before being zapped into unconsciousness by the night alicorn. The jackal dropped to the ground but not without getting a good tear on the unicorn’s beautiful dress.

"It was such a pretty little chiffon...! What kind of monster would do this?!" She cried out in pain while on her knees.

"The Tantabus."

"Then let's stop it!" Rarity got back up, ready to resume the fight, but was stopped by Luna who flew up with a raised hoof.

"No, please! I don't want you to suffer anymore because of me. I will catch it."

She flew after the creature, which created more jackals to leap down to attack her. Luna zapped each of them away as she came after the Tantabus, but it was enough to buy itself an escape route, thus preventing Luna from going after it.

"It has jumped into another dream! I am sorry, but if I am to stop it, I must follow it where you cannot."

"Go!" Rarity insisted.

Luna broke the dome, allowing her to fly out of the unicorn's dream, who then turned around to fight more of the nonstop and numberous jackals still ganging up on her.

"I should be able to handle things here." She said bravely…before seeing the nonstop growing and rising numbers surrounding her. "I hope…!"

As always, Pinkie Pie was happily jumping up and down along with trotting her way across various locations she has visited before. First it was a meadow, then a cave, followed by a mountain with a dragon, and then Cloudsdale. All the while she sang,

"La-la-la-la-la! Whee! Whee, ha-ha! La-la-la-la-la!"

During the Cloudsdale sequence, Princess Luna appeared before her. "I followed the Tantabus here. Now I need only find—"

Pinkie leaped again and the scenery once again changed. This time, at her home bakery Sugarcube Corner.

"Sorry, can't help it! An idea pops into my head, it—" She then gasped when she spotted something that caught her delightful attention. "Ooh, cake!"

She was just about ready to take a bite, unaware that the Tantabus has already infiltrated her dream. It went inside one of the cakes while Pinkie had her back turned, transforming it into a hideous monster with various eyes that splattered its frosting all over Pinkie Pie.

"Ew, cake!"

More and more cakes came to life, some with bat wings and others with sharp fangs. Once the cake exploded, revealing Princess Luna within it. Using her magic, she created a force field around her and Pinkie before expanding it causing all of the cakes to explode leaving nothing but splattered icing around them. Luna then saw the Tantabus enter a cake box. She leaped forward for it, only to suddenly hit a large crystal statue of Spike due to the scenery changing into the Crystal Empire.

"No!"

"Sorry!" Pinkie apologized.

Luna zapped at the sky and escaped into another dream. Pinkie Pie leaped once last time, now in Ponyville with a giant ice cream cone standing in the very center of town.

"Who wants ice cream?!"

The townsponies all appeared all smiling in agreement.

Fluttershy's dream was nothing more than what she would wish for any day outside of her cottage, a day in the Pride Lands, spending time with the friendly critters friends there from the smallest gecko to the biggest elephant to the tallest giraffe.

"It's so nice to be able to get together and have fun for once."

The Tantabus then tapped on Angel bunny's tail, causing him to grow intensely in size, frightening away everyone who all ran for the hillss. Fluttershy spun around and gasped to see her pet rabbit roaring at her like he had just appeared from the gates of Tartarus.

"N-n-n-n-nice… giant... evil Angel…!" She screamed in terror, only to be rescued by Princess Luna right when the monstrous bunny was about to kill her with his claws.

The two hovered above and Fluttershy wiped away her sweat, "Phew! Oh, thank you, princess!"

But Luna had no time to spare some words as she went after the Tantabus again who went into another’s dream, leaving Fluttershy to fight off the horribly transformed Angel off with nothing but her flight and hooves alone.

Applejack happily sighed as she polished her brightly red and freshly grown giant apple with her hoof. "Now this is what I call an incredible dream."

The Tantabus appeared once more, this time destroying every tree it touched. One of the flowers on one of the tress grew larger, to reveal Luna manifest herself. She gasped once she spotted the Tantabus aiming at Applejack's apple.

Applejack quickly tried to lasso and reign in the creature, but all the lasso accomplished was causing the creature to split in two instead. From there, the apple was helpless when the Tantabus flew right inside of it causing it to turn into a dried and rotten apple core all while Luna flew inside of it in order to keep pace with the Tantabus.

Next thing she sees is Beshte at home at the mud pit along with the other hippos all enjoying themselves where the Lion Guard’s Strongest is accompanied by two female hippos who is shown literally soaking in the attention they were giving him.

“No, stop, really.” Beshte kindly insisted. “You’re both too kind!”

Even still they couldn’t help but throw him compliments as they flirted with him together.

“But it’s true, Beshte.”

“You’re so strong!”

“So big!”

“And so handsome!”

“That’s true! I am the Strongest!”

The girly hippos giggled as they both gave him kisses on the cheeks much to the alicorn’s bewildered expression.

“Oh hi, your majesty.” He greeted upon seeing her. He then added when he saw that she was still processing what she is seeing. “Um, it’s a little complicated.”

Unfortunately, things got a little more complicated when the Tantabus had merged itself inside the girl hippo’s, causing them to glow sinister purple eyes and their tongues to come out of their mouths like poisonous snakes.

“Uh-oh.”

He was left unable to run to escpae when the hippos leaped onto him and attacked him when the water turned into purple sticky goo. The hippos roared at him with Luna quickly using her magic to take down the Tantabus-controlled hippos. She then sprung magic up into the sky to make it rain so Beshte can free himself from the sticky tar trapping him. Once he was free he quickly ran out of the pond and to dry land for safety.

The Tantabus quickly managed to morph back into a stream of magic before fleeing from Luna who pursed it out of the hippo’s dream.

The next thing Luna knows is when she appeared in the next dream, the Crystal Empire stadium where the Equestrian Games where held. There she finds Rainbow Dash there, fighting off against the Outsiders. She punched and kicked each and every one of them like it was a stroll through memory lane being able to take down them effortlessly no matter what angle they try use against her.

"I can see the Tantabus has already turned your slumbers into a nightmare!" Luna remarked already feeling worried yet confused while seeing that Rainbow Dash isn’t feeling troubled at all.

"What are you talking about? This is one of my favorite dream!" She said as she swiftly dodged the hyenas and jackals when they all tried to dog pile her. As the pile grew taller and taller, she climbed up the tower higher and higher until she stopped at the very top of the now defeated army.

But her recently acquired victory over the Outsiders literally became overshadowed when the Tantabus appeared over her head from the sky. The skies darken with thunder and lightning crackling across the kingdom with Scar’s head appearing from the dark clouds and sinisterly laughing from above.

With the evil lion’s influence the Outsiders suddenly transformed bigger and meaner, and appearing in darker colors. Instantly the pupils in their yellow eyes disappeared and they were all sporting bare and vicious looking teeth to match their newly transformed and equally vicious appearances. Immediately and just under ten seconds flat the Outsiders dog-piled Rainbow instead with Scar’s head overseeing their success.

“Go ahead do your worst!” Rainbow defiantly said to the lion glaring down on him with his trademark evil smirk. “I’d rather die than beg for mercy!”

Scar simply chuckled in response. “Big talk, little pony. But I actually have something even better in mind for you. After all there are some things in life that are WORSE than death!”

With the magic surrounding this dream the dark scenery turned into something more bright and colorful, something that would have Pinkie Pie singing very comfortably to the tune if she was in it. A brightly colored meadow with candy trees, frosting branches with sunflowers all sporting big eyes all dancing and singing to the tune of "This Old Man".

“We are such happy flowers

We will now sing for hours

Aren't we unbearably cute?

Watch me solo on this flute.”

Rainbow Dash screamed in terror truly now living in limbo right now all while the Outsider are all holding her down now appearing as the sunflowers singing to her right now.

During the brief distraction where Luna saved Rainbow Dash, the Tantabus quickly made its escape with the former pursing it at full speed.

In the next dream, it is where Diamond Valley was once a lust and beautiful terrain back in the past.

The blue sky, the green grass, the peace and harmony spread out through the land, every animal resident all getting along swimmingly. Back in the good old days for Kyoga and her siblings, back to a time where the three siblings had no scars and all limbs to have around. In addition a time where they had a complete family and when everyone was happy.

Kyoga when she was much more cheerful took the time to stretch out her limbs and claws ready to take a nap in the sun…

…at least for a good minute.

Suddenly, the skies turned dark gray with clouds forming over the blue sky. The residents all scattered, fled, and all hid around the nearby hiding spots as the fateful storm that brewed over the place approached them. To Kyoga’s horror and sadness, it was Scar and his followers with the former laughing wickedly.

Kyoga bared her claws alongside her siblings and parents as they try their hardest to fight off these conquering lions as their leader charged first. Despite his lean and scrawny appearance at the time, he still is a force not to reckon with as he bared his teeth and claws ready attack the lions trying to stand up to him.

But just as he leaped up to attack the lions, Princess Luna appeared to intercept and tackle him across the grass. After a few seconds of tumbling across the field they broke apart before glaring down at one another fiercely patiently waiting for making their next move.

After a few seconds, Scar moved to attack first swiping a his claws at her a few times. The alicorn was able to miss each and every attempt before giving him a good blast of magic to the face to knock him backwards.

The lion growled in response before getting back up and charging with vigorously as he managed to swipe his claws and force Luna backwards with each hit he threw at her in retaliation. It was only when Luna used her magic once more that she was able to force Scar off of her body and sent him flying away from Diamond Valley that she was finally able to win this brief skirmish. But by then she spotted the Tantabus make her escape yet again.

“Go! We’ll hold him off!” Kyoga assured just when she spotted Zira and the Outsiders make their charge inside Diamond Valley with Luna quick to take her word for it by quickly pursing the Tantabus.

At that moment Scar had recovered and managed to stand up to carry out what he did all those years ago, leaving Kyoga nothing else she can do other than fight to her last breath while giving it her all.

Next up is Bunga’s fantasy where he is dreaming around being the Bravest in the Pride Lands while proving his worth by fighting off the Outsiders in the Outlands. To him, it was every he would want to do if he was allowed to do so, being able to unleash his fearlessness and strength on those who try to threaten the very balance of the Circle of Life and he was doing very well at it. It especially helps that he is surfing is way down the lava stream from the Outlands Volcano while doing it.

But his fun got cut short when the lava from the stream boiled up from the ground level rising over Bunga’s head like a huge tidal wave was about to wipe and burn him out courtesy of the Tantabus’s sudden appearance.

“Going sssomewhere, Bunga.” Ushari’s voice hissed to him as he appeared on the very top of the lava stream with malicious intent to see to that he is killed right on the spot.

Unable to control his steering anymore Bunga quickly ducked out of the way to nearby solid ground where he finds himself by the vengeful hyenas ready to make a meal out of him.

“Finally! Now we got you, Bunga!”

“Yeah! Time for lunch!”

“Lunch?!”

“Yep, come to papa!”

The lava still appearing as tall with Ushari still on top as the tidal waves prepared to come down hard on the hyenas along with the terrified and helpless honey badger with full force.

“That’s a very big stream of lava!” Bunga fearfully whimpered for once.

“Oh don’t worry, Bunga! This will only hurt a lot! Just like all of the times you’ve hurt me!” Ushari malevolently returned all while sinisterly and laughed with murderous triumphant.

“Oh, no!”

“Oh, yes! And I am sure going to love this part of the job!”

Luckily for him, Luna emerged from the shadows and then quickly blasted the hyenas and the traitorous cobra aside with his magic before using her magic to force the lava to back off and then lower back to the ground with full force. Just when Bunga smiled very thankfully for her saving his dream life she spotted the Tantabus make its escape once more.

Next up is Kion’s dream where the Princess of Night finds the new half lion and alicorn prince flying over the scope of the Pride Lands to oversee the peace kept in the kingdom. So far it was like any peaceful day in the Pride Lands, kindly greeting the friendly faces through every home he passes by to checking up on how they are doing so far.

Today itself happened to be a good day by his standards, no major trouble at first sight…at least until his attention was drawn by evil laughter from a very familiar voice in the Outlands just floating over the borderline and in front of the Outlands Volcano.

“Scar!”

“Sorry to spoil your happy day, Kion. But I can’t have any little lion cubs mocking about ruining my plans to take over here.”

“No! It’s not happening, Scar!”

Scar unimpressed had fire appear from his paws and immediately struck his grand-nephew square in the chest. He then floated to hoist the neutralized cub with his magic before hoisting him over the nearby stream of lava.

“Let me go!” He yelled as he struggled to free himself.

“Oh I will in just a few seconds. Watch and learn.”

It was there the Tantabus made its appearance well known as he makes the volcano erupt a massive amount of lava in its wake all of it heading on over in the Pride Lands direction.

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” He screamed upon witnessing this and finding himself plummeting to his death with the lava stream right in front of him.

Just like the others facing certain doom, Luna was there to rescue him along with quickly sending magic to freeze the lava before it could even cause harm to anyone in its path. Of course like the previous attempts the Tantabus was quickly to free itself when it broke itself free from the ice and cooled lava and then floating away to the nearby escape door in the blue skies in the Pride Lands. Luna after making sure Kion was okay and transferred to safety in the Pride Lands, quickly moved to fly after it in order to keep up her attempts to stop it.

Twilight's dream was in a large library, filled with books of all kinds. The place where her biggest passion lies in...if said books didn’t suddenly fly right out of the shelves with evil bat-like appearances.

One of the books opened up, allowing the Tantabus to come through causing Twilight turned around and gasped in horror. Quickly regaining her composure, Twilight jumped away from her seat and started working her magic on them blasting each and every one of them with it before bolting for the nearby glass window in order to make her escape.

Once she was free she found the books were now still pursuing her. Undeterred, she quickly turned around with a flip-over maneuver to give one of the most explosive spells she’s got at her disposal in order to incinerate them into ashes along with accidentally blowing up the library in the process of doing so.

Just then and before she could react and fix that error, she found herself covered in the shadows when she saw the Tantabus appear right before her ready to attack. But before the Tantabus could catch her by surprise, Luna quicklyy appeared in front of her, shielding her fellow princess from the monster’s attack.

"Luna!"

Using her magic, Luna managed to turn the Tantabus into pure crystal, keeping it contained. She turned her head, sharing a triumphant smile with Twilight. But the Tantabus was able to quickly break free from its prison.

Not only that more books with bat-like wings appeared before them along with Scar himself in his demonic half lion and half alicorn form. Scar himself looking down at the two alicorns smirking evilly before working his magic from his horn aiming a fully loaded surge of magic right at them just when the Tantabus escaped.

Everyone gasped as they all woke up, getting Spike, Fuli, and Ono’s attention, who were all pacing around the room and reading books to pass the time.

Spike quickly rushed over to Rarity as he asked everyone…"What happened? Are you guys okay?"

Fluttershy was the first to express the terror she felt from what she just went through in her dreams. “That…that was terrible!"

Bunga was the next comment sure finding it more than what he asked for in his life. “I'll say! I never want to have that nightmare again!"

"Me neither!" Rainbow Dash stated in agreed as she rocking back and forth like she was completely traumatized.

Twilight and Kion both woke up with their hearts racing along with sweating due to having relieve their worst nightmares coming to surface.

"But Luna caught it, didn't she?" Ono asked.

Princess Luna descended downwards from the ceiling, looking at them all very regretful and unable to confirm it. "I am so sorry, my friends. I failed. It will be back to infect your dreams the next time you sleep."

"Oh, no!" Fluttershy trembled as she covered herself with her blanket already fearing the worst.

"Yeah. I reckon I could live without seeing that thing ever again." Applejack commented thinking otherwise.

"But you will." Luna asserted as she shook her head. "Again and again, every night, until it grows powerful enough to infect the waking world!"

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion said in alarm. “You mean it get worse and worse from there?!”

“Indeed it will.”

Everyone turned their heads towards Princess Celestia when she appeared inside the room.

“Celestia!”

"Sister?!!" What are you doing here?!”

“Finding out of what you’ve been hiding from me. After I saw that you’ve been avoiding me when I tried asking you of how your night was recently, I felt it was time that I find out for myself. And now I know.”

Luna's head lowered in shame upon realizing the jig is up. "I'm sorry, but I didn’t want you get involved. This was my mistake and I’m the only one who can fix it."

"Luna--"

"After what I did as Nightmare Moon, the fact that I am once again responsible for harming others is more than I can bear. I'm the one who needs to set things right and I need to do this alone."

Of everyone in the room who was left silent for a good ten secons, both Twilight and Celestia especially looked on very impacted by that statement as they both have been there and done that before and could very well relate to her plight.

"It'll be okay!" Pinkie Pie assured in an attempt to help comfort her. "Everybody makes mistakes!"

"As long as none of you dreamt about anybody else, the Tantabus remains confined to your dreams." Luna explained. "We still have a chance to catch it before it's too late."

"Phew, that's good to hear! Although after Luna left, I did happen to dream that I was eating a giant ice-cream cone with all of Ponyville and then shared it with the new air nation while taking a test we hadn't studied for. See, what'd I tell ya? Everybody makes mistakes!"

Everybody's jaw dropped in horror upon hearing that. Not only will everypony in Ponyville would be infected by the Tantabus, but also every Pride Lander as well, thus giving it the power it needs in order to take over the world.

“You did WHAT?!” Fuli calmly yet angrily exclaimed.

“Yep.” Pinkie’s smile faded upon seeing how angry and menacing she is looking. “Uh Fuli, you okay?”

“Yep. Just peachy.” She replied without raising her voice. “I just need to excuse myself for a moment.” She moved to walk off to the emergency fire exit she installed so she can quickly leave the castle.

“Here.” Twilight offered her up a pair of earmuffs. “You might want these.”

Pinkie did as she was told even though she wondered why she needed to put them on. At the same time Fuli took a deep breath…

“F….”

The scream along with a church organ piano had many birds scattering across the area along with waking up every single pony and Pride Lander from both worlds. Upon hearing it everyone was in complete shock with what they had just heard.

“Good heavens! That’s the loudest profanity I ever heard!” Zito commented highly surprised by the word itself.

After making her way back towards up the slide and back to the bedroom, she made sure she got it out of her system. “Okay. I’m good now.”

"But that means the Tantabus could be turning every dream in Ponyville into a nightmare!" Twilight exclaimed in terror.

“Not only that, everyone in the Pride Lands will be affected by it!” Kion also exclaimed in the same tone.

"It is far worse than that." Luna further explained. "Infecting all those dreams gives it more and more power. Soon it will be able to escape into the real world and infect both Equestria and the Pride Lands with its nightmare plague!"

"Then you must let us help you stop it before that happens!" Rarity bravely insisted.

"But how?" Fluttershy asked. "The Tantabus was able to escape Luna when it only had nine dreams it could get to!"

"It is true." Luna agreed. "With so many dreams to hide in, I don't know how I can catch it."

Twilight pondered for a moment before coming up with a suggestion, "Hmm… What if everypony in Ponyville were having one dream?"

Luna's ears perked up, "I… can create shared dreams, yes, but for so many ponies at once? Including the Pride Landers? I have never done anything like that. The amount of power it would take…" She felt her sister’s wing drape over her shoulder.

"Something that only one but two alicorn sisters can do together. With our magic combined we can take on the Tantabus just like we did with past foes we’ve encountered before." Upon seeing that her younger sister was still reluctant in accepting her help she added. “Please sister, I want to be able to help you as much as everypony and everybody.”

Luna turned to Twilight who gently insisted that she takes her up on her offer. “Coming from the mare who lived in isolation from home for over a month when at her lowest point, you may think you’re alone Luna, but you’re not.” She smiled as she gave the heartfelt she was once given and needed to be convinced into returning and staying back home where she belongs. With friends and family to help comfort and encourage her to be the best pony she can be.

After letting it sink in for a few seconds she spoke her mind. "All right.” Luna accepted her words. “I will do anything to end this, including accept your help." she turned to the others, "All of your help. I cannot allow the Tantabus to escape into the real world. All of you must now go back to sleep and hope that we can create such a dream."

The Lion and Pony Guard did what the younger alicorn sister asked of them. Even Fuli, Ono, and Spike slept to help their friends. Both sisters placed the tip of their horns together as the orb of magic circled around them with numerous white strings growing from their combined horns, extending from the castle to all across Ponyville and the Pride Lands.

The dream spell was activated once more.

Mtoto was one of the first to open his eyes to the strangeness he was seeing. It looked like Ponyville and Equestriae had merged together as there was no portal separating them. The Pride Landers, including Simba and the royal family were all looking on in confusion trying understand their current surroundings. Ponies were also all looking around equally confused with the abnormal atmosphere around them.

Muffins with wings flew above the sky, several earth ponies could swim in midair, Lyra and Bon Bon realized that their lower bodies have been merged together as one. Truthfully they weren’t really bothered by it as they bonded more closely than ever because of it.

As Simba is trying to absorb his surroundings before he bumped into something. It was Derpy appearing as a large giant, who meowed like a cat at him in response.

“Okay…” The lion king honestly had no words to say back at her and probably for the best though. Just then he spotted his son along with the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard approaching them. “Kion! Twilight! What is going on here?”

“Nothing to worry about, Dad.” He quickly assured. “None of this real.”

“It is all a dream, where everyone and everypony’s fantasies come true here.” Twilight added.

Applejack saw Opal chase after a very small version of a stallion who then shuddered in disgust upon seeing it. Ponyville and the Pride Lands combined in the dream realm was bizarre beyond anyone’s imagination. She spotted a famailar pair of hooves accompanied by a face she recognizes.

"Big Mac! Boy, I'm glad to see somethin' familiar!"

However, her relieved delight turned into surprised shock when she saw that not everything about him was exactly the same…mainly because he has a long unicorn on his forehead.

"Eeyup." Using his magic, Big Mac created a giant apple that hurled across the sky.

“Poa!” Beshte commented looking on at the stallion very impressed. “Now that’s what I call strong dream power right there!”

“No kidding” Bunga agreed…all while flying and running around at super-fast speeds that would make the Guard’s Fastest left very impressed at the very sight of it.

And true to their intial reactions after getting over their shock, they were indeed impressed and in awe at the sight. After all, it’s always nice to see a new speedy flying buddy to hang with even if it’s a dream.

“Oh, yeah! Who’s the Fastest now!”

“Still me!” Rainbow and Fuli both looked on now annoyed and unimpressed upon seeing that he is now being a show-off.

"Ponies! Pride Landers!"

Princess Luna’s voice echoed across the dream land where her and Celestia’s horns are still glowing together and individually, floating in the sky while shielded in a bright glowing forcefield.

"Princess Luna! Princess Celestia!"

Everyone all bowed before the two sisters.

"There is no time for bowing, my friends!" Luna urgently exclaimed, "There is something coming, something terrible! No, it is already here!"

Everyone screamed in terror once they saw the Tantabus appear before them, now even larger and more intimidating than before. The very sight of it caused great fear amongst everyone, the same kind of fear striken in their hearts on par with Scar’s intimidating appearance alone.

"I am so sorry!” Luna remorsefully apologized. “I brought this upon you! But I will end it now!"

In a desperate attempt to end this, the night princess shot a white beam at the Tantabus in hopes of destroying it for good. But it did very little in stopping it with the only thing accomplished from it is leaving Luna panting heavily and very nearly exhausted, complete with sweat dripping from her forehead as the Tantabus continued terrorizing everyone.

"Luna, what's wrong?" Kion asked.

Luna grunted as both she and Celestia struggled to maintain control over everyone’s dreams. "It… is taking all our strength just to hold this massive dream together!"

“It’s now up to you and your friends to stop it, Twilight.” Celestia said to her protégé.

"I truly wish I did not have to ask this of you!" Luna regretfully told her faithful friends.

"Then you're in luck." Twilight stated confidently in assurance.

"Yeah! We're already on it!" Rainbow Dash winked at Ono and the two nearby ponies flew after the Tantabus together, followed by the other fliers from the Pride Lands.

The Tantabus quick to cause terror and chaos amongst the dream realm turned a house into a living monster as well having Mzingo and his flock swooping down with dark and demonic appearances swarming around it to prevent anyone from stopping its rampage. During the chaos, the monster house managed to ensnare Thurston with his tentacles.

“Panic and run! Panic and…” The monster instantly shoves a sock down his throat to shut him up.

“You know…” Rainbow Dash remarked upon witnessing this with Ono. “…we could just not save him.”

“Tempting, but it violates our creed.” Ono reminded.

“Fine.” Rainbow swooped in and kicked the monster's face, causing it to drop the jumpy zebra, who could only let out a muffled scream before being caught by the rainbow-maned Pegasus. “You’re welcome.” She quickly said before flying off.

Another one of the monster houses had a stallion in its mouth, who tried to keep it from eating him by using his front hooves to keep its jaws from snapping shut on him. Twilight quickly rushed over to his rescue by firing a beam of magic before unleashing a set of punches and kicks to send it falling on its back and crashing into multiple pieces of broken wood and bricks. The stallion managed to free itself only to wind up falling without a safe landing. Luckily for him, Beshte quickly leaped over and allowed the stallion to land on his back before letting him slide down safely onto the ground.

One of the Pride Landers, Laini found herself in the crosshairs of another monster house’s foot. Fluttershy thought really hard and changed herself into Flutterbat to bite the monster's foot, causing it to cry out in pain and release Laini so Fluttershy could take him to safety. And when the monster house tried to retaliate he finds himself bitten by Fuli who has also transformed into Fulibat in the other foot causing him to collapse and crash into the ground after losing his balance.

“I don’t think so!” Fuli stated with a triumphant smirk.

Ma Tembo attempted to ensnare the Venus fly trap with her trunk but ended up getting her trunk ensnared instead by the vines. Just as it was about to bite her, the plant was suddenly shredded into pieces by the claws of the lion prince before backhanding the plant pot away and onto the ground.

“Phew! Thank you, Kion!”Ma Tembo gratefully said to the leader of the Lion Guard.

Now there were deadly plants along with flying muffins on the rise for an aerial attack where both Fuli and Applejack are working together to try to control them from harming the ponies they tried to take captive. Applejack spotted her brother down below, who was surrounded by the flying cupcakes which were anything but sweet.

"Oh, no! Big Mac! You can do anythin' in a dream, remember?"

Realizing this, Big Mac used his imagination. His body became engulfed with a golden aura. In an instant he had transformed himself into an alicorn, complete with royal golden horse shoes, golden collar, jewels, flourishes, and a royal golden crown, to go with his new matching red wings.

"Wheeeeee!"

While Applejack was happy for her brother as he flew around with glee, Ono looked on blinking in confusion.

Turning some of his friends. “Did we just see…?”

“Big Macintosh transform into an alicorn.” Fuli finished looking just as confused.

Beshte deciding it was best to leave it at that considering it’s just a dream just said. "Like my dad always said, live long enough and you’ll see everything.”

Rainbow flew down towards them to get them to focus at the task at hoof. "Come on! If that Tantabus thing turns any more of this dream against us, we'll be too busy saving lives to catch it! And it'll grow powerful enough to escape into the real world!"

"How are we even gonna know when it's able to escape?" Ono asked.

Everyone else stopped what they were doing to see the nightmare creature, growing bigger in size now using itself as a sword to tear open a portal into the sky and marching its way out.

“Never mind. Forget I asked.” Ono quickly said while mentally berating himself for having a big beak there.

Both Twilight and Kion quickly worked together to form a combo blast at the creature, forcing it to back away. Once that was done, Luna then used her own magic to seal up the opening as fast as she could.

"Hurry, my friends!"

“Since this is a dream…” Fuli said as she started to use her own imagination. After a golden glow, she appeared now gaining a pair of Pegasus wings complete with pony ears and extended black hair on her head. “…I think it’s best that I do it in style.” She stated with a proud grin much to both Rarity and Rainbow’s astonishment.

“Well said, darling!”

“All right!”

Rainbow moved to fly alongside Fuli as they both pursed the Tantabus. They attempted to charge, ram, and claw at it, only for it created a hole that caused the two to fly right through it instead as its counterattack.

”Please, we need your help too!" Fluttershy implored of the whole crowd of towns ponies and Pride Landers.

Kion, Kyoga, and Twilight tried zapping at the creature, but it still didn’t stop it in its tracks.

"Fluttershy's right! " Kion said as he addressed everyone in the dream realm. "We've all got to work together to stop it from escaping!"

"But how can we help?" Bupu asked unsure about that claim. "In case you didn’t notice, none of us have your magic or your speed!"

Rainbow and Fuli were quick to fly over to correct him on that matter.

“That's true... in the real world!"

“But here in the dream realm…anything’s possible!”

Bic Mac flew by, zapping the flying muffins with his horn in agreement. "Eeyup!"

"And not just any! This is your dream! " Twilight addressed to the crowd, speaking strongly as she did. "Anything you can do in your dreams, you can do now!"

Spike got the idea and snapped his fingers. His body glowed and turned himself into his knight in shining armor appearance he depicted himself in his everyday fantasies right down to the muscles, cape and armor.

"Well, if you're gonna dream, might as well dream big, right?" He jumped up onto the giant Derpy ready to ride her like a medival hero. "Hi-yah!"

Derpy flew up with Spike riding on her while Commander Meelo rode on Pookie while shouting, "CHARGE!!!!!!!"

The townspeople cheered with glee knowing that their imagination alone has the power to stop the monster in its tracks.

The Tantabus once again tore open another gateway, but both Spike along with Shauku and Gumba while riding on Kambuni extended their swords, flying at the creature and managed to cut it into many, many, pieces.

Simba charged on ahead with mighty alicorn wings of his own, unleashing a super strong force of his own Roar to send the many pieces of the Tantabus flying off into the mountains. It was a proud moment for himself, as it was something he could never have imagined doing in the real world in his life.

The creature after quickly reforming and recovering from the attack, tore open another portal into the real world, only this time Scootaloo imagined herself with gigantic wings and flew upwards, using the winds to push the creature away to which Rainbow Dash smiled proudly at her in response. And liking the idea already, Rainbow imagined herself into her Power Ponies form, Zap and spun around the Tantabus alongside Fuli, working together at super-fast speeds to subdue it on top of a strong and powerful vortex.

"It's working!"

"But it's not enough!" Fuli quickly noticed before she and Rainbow were blasted aside when the Tantabus managed it free itself from the tornado. Upon seeing this Luna was feeling even more mortified and disheartened because of it.

"Then do more!" Pinkie shouted. "This is a dream, remember?"

Bunga getting the idea, imagined himself eating a can of bugs with spinach mixed into it. Then he imagined himself gaining instant muscles on his arms along with a muscular chest and abs after eating it. Once he had that super-fueled body build he proceeded to launch himself up towards the Tantabus and managed to grab it by the tail and yanked it hard into the ground.

He then proceeded to slam it into the ground side by side many times, all while having fun with it. But the Tantabus was quickly able to adapt and slip out of its grasp. Luckily for Bunga, Beshte was there to slam a huge rock in it’s path to keep it pinned to the ground.

Despite the two working together using their super strength to restraint it was still able to break free and caused the rock itself to explode sending both boys flying backwards. Kyoga quickly caught Beshte with her magic while Ono quickly caught Bunga just when he was face first with the sharp and pointy rocks in front of him.

Twilight then used her imagination to bring the destroyed Golden Oak Library back to life and summoned the books to fly out and attack the Tantabus. At the same time Applejack also changed into her Power Ponies persona and used her lasso to pull the creature away from the new opening while Rarity quickly stitched the opening closed with her own magic.

Both Ono and Hadithi working together led the entire flock of birds in the Tantabus’s direction who all relentlessly charged and pecked at it. The night creature was felt forced to retreat because of the birds attacking at it non-stop before splitting apart again in order to get them to back off.

Ma Tembo and the elephants including Ma Tembo grew into giants before using their trunks to lasso and restraint the Tantabus in place while the rhinos and hippos are charged at it with full force resulting in the creature getting repeatedly trampled. Then what followed was Fluttershy taming her demonic monster bunny into attacking it, along with Fuli commanding a flock of bats in its direction to swarm all over it.

For once the Tantabus was left no wiggle room as he is attacked from angles from everyone present in the dream realm it looked like they might actually be able to pull it off. But even with everyone's help, Celestia and Luna kept on struggling to keep this dream together. It was getting to be too much for them to handle to the point Luna was starting to break down in tears.

"I cannot hold this dream together much longer!" she said while straining to keep her horn’s magic going. "Equestria will fall because of me!"

The Tantabus roared, causing everyone to back away and fall to the ground with Spike and Ono the only ones still flying.

"Am I crazy, or did it just get even bigger after Luna said that?" Spike asked.

“Nope.” Ono shook his head. “It really did just happen just as she said that.”

“Oh, good.” Bunga sighed in relief. “She really had me there.”

Kion caught onto this too, as he came to the same conclusion. "Of course! I think it's feeding off your guilt, Princess Luna!"

"If that is so, then perhaps that is how it grew strong enough to escape from my control the first place!"

"Say what now?!" Applejack asked before gasping when the Tantabus tore open another opening.

"What else are you not telling us, Luna?" Celestia inquired.

Luna continued crying. "When NightMare Moon returned the memories of my past evil doings came back to haunt me. So, I created the Tantabus, a creature only I could control, to give myself the same nightmare every night since. I never believed it would take on a will of its own."

"But why would you do that?!" Fluttershy asked while the Tantabus grew larger in size, to the point the monster angel bunny was now frightened by its appearance.

"If it hadn't been for my jealousy, Scar never would have come back from the dead in the first place, and he never would have returned, turned Twilight against each and every one of you, and taken control of the entire world. I--I couldn't let that go unpunished! But it seems I have not learned my lesson. Now, because of my foolishness, I have only made you suffer more!"

The heartbroken princess got down on her knees, covering her face in shame while the Tantabus grew larger and larger alongside the opening. The creature began to take on the shape of a unicorn shaping up to Luna's figure.

Twilight, Kion, Kyoga, Bunga, Rainbow Dash all gathered around the two sisters.

"But that means you also might just be the key to stopping all this!" Bunga pointed out.

"He's right!" Rainbow Dash agreed with Kion. "If it gets strong because you feel bad about what you did as Nightmare Moon, then you just need stop feeling bad for what you did!"

"How can I forgive myself?" Luna asked, still crying. "You all suffered because of my past mistakes, even after I had tried so hard to put it behind me. I am no better now than I was then."

"That's not true!" Twilight exclaimed asserting otherwise. "You were the one who came all the way outside of Equestria to help me regain the courage to return home after what happened with Scar! I was in a very dark place back then but you never gave up on me!"

"Because you deserved that forgiveness. I don't! And now my creation is about to turn the world into a living nightmare!"

“Don’t say that!” Twilight shook his head against that statement. “Because if anything you’re not the only who’s made mistakes. In fact, because of me Scar regained control of the Pride Lands and nearly did the same for all of Equestria had I not stopped him at the last possible second.”

“Which wouldn’t have happened had we taken the extra steps in checking up on you to make sure you didn’t turn against us.” Kion added.

“Which also wouldn’t have happened if we had stuck by you after your brother chewed you out and banned from his wedding the first time around.” Rainbow further added still feeling very remorseful over the event itself.

Bunga also rose one his claws up to chime in. “Because of me, I ended up causing that snake Ushari to turn against us by constantly giving him a hard time when I shouldn’t have.“

“And you’re realizing this now?” Ono asked.

“Hey!” Bunga shrugged in defense. “Having bad dreams help finding out about your biggest regrets!”

“Not to mention, that I did nothing to help soothe the tension you were feeling when it was all happening right under my nose and right in front of her.” Celestia further confessed. “I could have prevented this all from happening, but I didn’t and I have regretted not trying to make amends with you every day since then.”

"Point being…" Kion continued to get through to the remorseful alicorn. "We all did things that we regret, but we've learned from our mistakes. And you can do the same right now because you have the power to end it here and stop what you’re doing!”

“I did at first…” Luna admitted. “…but after seeing the damage Scar had caused after I brought him back from the dead out of impulsiveness…I…I just couldn’t live with myself!"

The Tantabus slowly started making its way out into the real world. Time was running out with the clock ticking down to the last thirty seconds.

"But look at what you're doing!" Twilight further implored of her to look into her own heart to get her to forgive herself for what happened in the past. "Scar and Nightmare Moon would've wanted the Tantabus to turn Equestria into a nightmare! You're doing everything you can to stop it! Don't you see? That proves you're not the same pony you were then! Everybody who knows you knows that Nightmare Moon is in the past! We all trust you, Luna! Do you trust us enough to believe we're right?"

Luna looked up, the Tantabus was nearly out just ten seconds away from escaping, but once she turned and looked into the eyes of her friends who are showing nothing but friendly love and forgiveness in her direction before facing her own dear sister, who gently wrapped her arms around her like any loving sister would do.

“Celestia…I…”

“It’s okay, Luna. I’m sorry.”

"I'm sorry too."

"Do you forgive yourself now?"

"…I do!" Luna smiled as she did so.

The Tantabus cried out in shocked horror, suddenly feeling weak and no longer able to escape the dream world. Both the Tantabus and the portal the former was about to cross over shrunk. The portal closed completely and Luna stood up as the now unicorn-shaped and sized Tantabus walked towards her. The creature merged into her body, completely vanquished, leaving the creator now feeling whole as one.

Luna sighed in relief while smiling in gratefully that this was all finally over, and it was all thanks to everyone around her and especially her closest friends and family.

"Thank you. Thank you all."

Twilight was the first to wake up when she felt the warmth of the sunrise shine on her face with her eyes opening. She gasped and sat up with a happy smile as she declared. "Luna did it!"

The friends yawned and stretched as they got out of bed one by one after waking up.

"She sure did!" Bunga agreed but then added sounding rather confused himself. "Only… I'm not exactly sure what she did."

"Luna created the Tantabus to punish herself! The worse she felt, the more power it had! But once she finally forgave herself for what Nightmare Moon did…"

"Poof!" Spike said while mimicking a cloud literally going up in smoke.

Kion being the last one to get out of his stood up and stretched his paws, claws, and wings felt as happy as someone accomplishing another successful mission. “Wow! And just like that I feel better already!”

“Like succeeding in another mission to protect both the Pride Lands and Equestria.” Fuli asked with a knowing smirk.

“Exactly, Fuli!”

"Shh…" Celestia gently asked them all to keep quiet as she wrapped her wing over her sister who is now peacefully sleeping.

Everyone in the room went, "Awwwww…"

"Huh. Wonder what she's dreaming about now." Spike asked.

Kion smiled. "Whatever it is, it must be a pretty good one."

For the first time in a thousand years, Princess Luna has finally come to terms and has gained a sense of peace after moving on from what she did as Nightmare Moon and was now sleeping under the comfort of her older sister to which she had never done in many, many, years. And it was a heartwarming and peaceful sight to behold.

Later that night, Twilight upon acting on her previous suspicions moved to pay Tartarus a late night visit. With a quick teleportation while no one was around and awake to see her she was there in an instant.

Using her magic she was able to enter the heavily-guarded jail along with personally assuring the guards that she is a princess so she can be allowed clearance to investigate. With her top priority in mind she went to where the clones of Scar, Zira, her pride, Chrysalis, her changelings, Ushari, and the skinks are all held inside.

There she noticed they were all sleeping soundly, contently, and fully satisfied with their current environment. Even while approaching them they didn’t even bat open an eye in her direction. Not a word, not an open eye, peep, or anything that they would normally do while she’s around them.

To her it didn’t make any sense. Either they’re all deep heavy sleepers to any vistior they came across. Or more accurately as she analyzed from the drained magic from the other prisoners along with the threateningly growls in her direction from the many creatures that are wishing the very name of their prison upon her the truth in front of her…

Upon leaving Tartarus her eyes now widen in alarm even as she found herself face to face with the now awake alicorn princess herself along with Rainbow Dash.

“What do you find, Twilight Sparkle?” Luna asked.

“Scar and his followers who were imprisoned here have escaped.” She answered with fear in her eyes…

Author's Note

Here in this episode, as said last time this episode is focused on the dreams as the Lion and Pony Guard help Princess Luna battle a nightmare spirit, The Tanatabus. The growing source of everyone suffering sleepless nights due to endless nightmares.

After the initial attempt just the Lion and Pony Guard themselves, it took a whole two-foer kingdom wide dream along with another alicorn on par with Luna to be able to tackle it together. That along with a strong touch of forgiveness when it seemed like it was the end of world coming into the waking realm.

But there is however the matter of the Big Bad whose influence is still having a direct influence throughout both worlds as sone of the heroes are finally learning what’s going on around them. And I can tell you right now that something is definitely going down in the upcoming mid-season finale which I will have ready sometime in June so stay tuned to see what this season has been building up to.

Episode 20: Queen of Thieves Part One

Episode 20:

Queen of Thieves Part One

On a bright and sunny day, no pony or Pride Lander could ever ask for as many of them are all making their way towards the Canterlot Castle. Many of them all wearing special suits and dresses as they head over there, and given the excitement it was all for a very special occasion.

Although for certain Outsiders who think alike, it is to them an occasion and opportunity for them to wreak havoc and engorge themselves like the kings and queens they feel they are entitled to. Mainly hyenas and jackals who have all taken cover in some of the suitcases and saddlebags under the pony-disguised changelings posing as carriers.

Their leaders are watching from afar on the tallest hilltop nearby the Castle overseeing them make their way towards the castle, all according to plan where Starlight herself personally leads them inside, all while making sure they aren’t spotted by the guards and the other powerful figures in the two kingdoms. All while wearing a black spy outfit that covers their faces and only exposing their eyes.

Amongst the large line of guests gaining access to the castle, two figures in particular were looking very curious about what why everyone was getting eager to get inside.

“Oooh, in all my years, never have I seen the streets so full of bustle and hustle and assorted commotion.” A pink-colored pony commented to the head Royal Guard permitting entrance to the guests. She wore a black jacket, black bowtie, and black pants and matching dress shoes along with a matching mustache and funny looking glasses.

“One of our alicorn princesses is to wed.” He firmly replied.

“Ooh, wonderful! And who is the lucky prince?”

“A familiar one who happens to be a unicorn. A very lucky unicorn who goes by the name of Shining Armor. The older brother of the Princess of Friendship.”

“No way! That’s great news!”

In an instant she ripped off her disguise and revealed herself as none other than really Pinkie Pie. The guard did his best to keep a straight face despite her antics but it was getting really hard to endure it.

“Try it really…” She said as she pulled the guard in for a whisper before starting up some fireworks with her party cannon. “…and it’s all thanks to the magic of friendship!” She makes a “My Little Pony Friendship is Magic!” Sign with dull pink generic letters which quickly dim out. She looked forward to the audience before sheepishly grinning and shrugging. “Oops, silly me. Rainbow Dash!” Upon hearing the sounds of super speed coming her way she shouted. “Here we go! With color!”

“Aw, yeah!”

With another blast of her party cannon and right on cue when the latter’s sonic rainboom happened, she made the new magic logo appear which all separated letter by letter with bunny rabbit legs hopping away after a few seconds as balloons and confetti appeared in the sky courtesy of Discord secretly who mischeviously chuckled over everyone’s heads.

As Pinkie cherishes and witnesses of how the preparations are coming along, she sang along the way along with looking through a snow globe of Canterlot courtesy of the Crystal Empire gift shop.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, there's excitement in the air.”

“People pouring in from near and far.”

With her propelling tail, Pinkie was able to float around the air around the castle perimeter.

They both flew by Ma Tembo and the other elephants making their way to the castle before kindly giving one of them a manicure.

“'Cause Princess Cadance and Shining Armor are gonna have a weddin'.“

She proceeds to fly over to Trouble Shoes who is wearing a giant afro before rushing over to do make sure he is in a suit and tie before entering.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, everybody will be there.”

But then she thought it would be even funnier if the elephants all got all in on the fun. Though it didn’t last due to how unamused they were forcing the now sheepish pony to remove the rainbow afros. She then spotted the pony who’s unaware that her wig fell off along with a filly who managed to get mud on her coat before quickly moving to fix it.

“So if you're a pauper or a shah, do something with your hair.”

Along the way she spotted someone wearing a costume outfit, an Arabian outfit, along with Cranky and Matilda having bad accessory days, mainly the hair and earrings.

“You mustn't wear an outfit that's naughty.

A turban that's unraveling just won't do

No earrings that are tasteless or gaudy.”

“You're gonna look gorgeous when I get through.”

She then spots a bright white wall that she feels needs a little mural painted on it before quickly doing so featuring her happy face along with a smiling sun.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, so I'm goin' to paint the town.

If you want to see what colors are, follow me around.”

Some of the crowd got in on the song for a verse as they marched forward happily.

“Shining Armor is gettin' married and it's gonna be

The wedding of the century.”

“My buddy's brother is getting married and you're gonna see

Just how much I can do!”

She then appeared wearing the outfit she wore when playing entertainer at the Crystal Empire and then later at Appleoosa when she managed to peeve the buffalo and ponies there off.

“You've heard of your safari bar mitzvahs

You've all been to a luau sweet sixteen

But none of them compare to what this.”

She appears in the garden where the dance party and refreshments are where she wasted no time in getting her head coated with fountain chocolate before gobbling it all up like she did the time when Celestia came over for a casual get together.

“The food with be disgusting, by evening you'll be busting.”

“Hey!” Applejack remarked taking offense to that remark given that she is charge of the catering.

The bridesmaids, Minuette, Lemon Hearts, Twinkleshine all got in by singing a verse.

“There's a party here in Canterlot and it's got us all aglow.”

Pinkie then appeared wearing her spy ninja suit, then silly mustache and glasses combo as she continued singing.

“If a simple unicorn could have come so far, maybe I can do it after all I’m an earth pony.

Sure, there's nothing to it!”

Watching the commotion from her apartment, Ms. Harshwhinny got a verse as she voiced her objections to the matter.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, but we're not sure that we'll go

For although the bride is la de dah, the groom is awfully low

Considering that he went for a low blow that the last time.”

Pinkie having suddenly appeared quickly frowned at her before speaking her mind. “Aw! Come on! Ms. Meany Pants!"

She then reappeared right outside the castle, where she appeared over the skies with her hot air balloon talking and acting like a news reporter while carrying a Scar mask while speaking into the microphone.

“And now we take you down to the palace, where everyone has celebrated all night long.” She then pulled out the Scar mask for all eyes to see. “Without Scar and all his malice, everybody's happy. What could possibly go wrong?”

True to tempted fate, said trouble that could cause the whole special event to go wrong is making their way through the courtyard courtesy of the unicorn’s spell.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, and we're gonna rob 'em blind!”

The hyenas and jackals sang together as they briefly pop their heads out of the baskets they were being carried inside with.

“While they're all munching caviar, create a small disturbance; I'll sneak up from behind.”

Starlight sang while carefully overseeing that they are not spotted just yet.

Inside the palace as the others arrived, the ponies have all placed their gifts for the soon to be wed couple on the table where Spike and Bunga are both handling and make sure they are all accounted for. Well the former is while the latter is really admiring the very gold placed on the table.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, and the loot is pouring in.”

I like this wedding stuff so far.

Maybe if I'm pleasant, I'll get to keep a present!”

“Just don’t get too greedy!” Kyoga reminded the overly-eager honey badger just as she was decorating the pavilion and the entrance with flowers. By then Pinkie spotted and saw what was happening.

“We've ordered just a few tasteful flowers.”

She proceeds to dump a cart full of flowers over herself and Kyoga much to the latter’s irritation even when she just managed to quickly do the job herself.

“And valets who will carefully park for you.”

Some of the elephants all parked themselves literally outside along with the others who didn’t want to come inside.

“The bridesmaids have been dressing for hours

Girls you look just lovely and so grown up too.”

Pinkie took the time to compliment the trio again before turning her attention back to where the wedding is going to happen while grabbing the checklist a certain someone left aside.

“There's a party in Canterlot, yes a filling of the room

But there's something missing, yes, aha!”

“Where is the groom?”

“Along with his Best Mare?!”

Both Kion and Rainbow asked as they took notice of it.

Said groom is at his house outside of the castle, currently getting himself dressed with the outfit he had originally planned on wearing all while looking at himself in the mirror. He was so far looking forward to this day for quite some time, and it was all thanks to his little sister who happened to be watching from just outside the door.

Said sister of the groom, however didn’t look too excited because of what happened last time and didn’t muster the courage to enter her brother’s home along with the current struggles she faced since then. She had her checklist and notes put together but she seemed very reluctant of pressing forward with the whole thing feeling this is all just another heartbreaking experience waiting to happen.

She was about to turn away when her brother spotted her with her back turned and pulled her inside for a hug. “Hello, L.S.B.F.F.! You ready see to your big brother finally get married.” He stopped hugging her when she didn’t share the same enthusiasm as him. “Twilight? What’s wrong?”

“Oh, nothing really…” She tried to say otherwise even though her brother could tell she was lying.

“Except…?”

“Except…I’m not really looking forward to it.”

“Why not?”

“Because of what happened the last time we tried to have this wedding.”

“Right…That…”

He knew right away that she is recalling the whole mess where Scar and Chrysalis created that started the whole chain of events that led to his sister going down a dark path recently after being scarred from the whole ordeal.

“I mean it’s not that I’m not happy for you and Cadance, it’s just I just wish this can be something that none of us won’t feel the need to worry should something catastrophic that could change one’s lives forever. You know what I mean?”

“I do, Twily. And I do want to be happy for us, and I do want to be able to act like there is nothing to worry about. I just wish I knew what to say to help make things better for the both of us.”

Both were silent for a moment because truthfully and deep down, there really is nothing that can be said to make things better because neither of them could say for sure that today won’t be a repeat.

“Now I won’t say that, darlings…” Rarity’s voice spoke up as she appeared just outside the window. “…I mean you could say you still have that undeniably strong bond between you two.”

“Rarity?!” Twilight spoke up in shock upon seeing her instantly. “What are you doing here?!”

“Finding you along with a certain someone who’s excited about parties…”

Right on cue, Pinkie appeared right between them. “Hello!”

“AAAHHH!”

“AAAHHH! Yourselves, but that doesn’t change the fact that somepony is going to be late for his wedding along with his best mare and wedding planner!”

“Um, Pinkie, darling…” Rarity politely interrupted the pink pony’s over-excitement to point her head to the two unsure siblings. “…I think they’re in the middle of an important conversation.”

“Oh!” Pinkie realized as she nervous giggled before her equally nervous smile dropped into a face of regret. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay, Pinkie.” Twilight shook her head to assure no harm was done. “We were just talking about the uncertainty of this upcoming wedding.”

“Ooohhh! The whole invasion where Scar and Chrysalis led the Outsiders and Changelings to invade Canterlot, where it took the combined might of the whole Royal Family and Guard to repel back into the Outlands, marked the whole start of the war with the most evil threat to both Equestria and the Pride Lands, and where Twilight started to become an evil mean pony following in his paw prints up until the day he betrayed her when he very nearly conquered Equestria along with the Pride Lands!” She said all in a rapid-fire motor mouth manner before spotting Rarity frowning in her direction. “What? That really happened!”

“Yeah…” Twilight said in response to the hard-hitting yet accurate description. “…all the more reason to be concerned whether or not this wedding will go well or not. Even with Scar defeated, he still continues to create problems with who knows when he is going to show his face again and what he is planning now.”

“But I thought Scar is in jail at Tartarus?”

“He is…but not without still managing contact with the Outsiders back in the Outlands...somehow.”

“How?”

“That’s just it. I don’t know how.”

“Well I’m sure we’ll figure it out in time…” Rarity assured. “…and as for you too given that me and Sweetie Belle once went through something similar, everything between you two will turn out fine as long as you both give in and show that you both love each other like apple pie...” Everyone eyes her curiously. “…and yes, it’s also Applejack’s words of wisdom which she passed along to me.”

“Aww!” Pinkie couldn’t help but giggle.

“Well…that’s true…” Twilight came to agree while acknowledging what the fashionista is trying to say.

“Of course it is, darling. And I’m sure if Princess Celestia were here she would tell you the same thing.”

“Except more on the lines of both brother and sister would love each other equally and have each other’s backs when it matters!” Pinkie eagerly added just when the two siblings smiled at each other before hugging it out.

“She sure would have. And I would still be honored to be your Best Mare, Shining Armor.”

“And I couldn’t have asked for anyone better myself.” He then turned into the castle’s direction. “Along for a better day to finally get married.” He said before singing himself.

“There's a party here in Canterlot, and the party's all for me.

Just look you guys and girls at where we are, and how are dreams have come to be.”

At the same time, Princess Cadance is walking along to her chambers so she can get ready for the wedding too looking forward to the wedding dress Rarity had prepared for her.

"There's a party here in Canterlot, and I can't believe it's true. After all this waiting, here we are. We'll finally get to say 'I do'.”

Shining Armor.

“I never ever had a complete family.”

“I never ever had a real loving and caring stallion.”

They both imagined themselves facing each other.

“Someone who could just understand me...”

Shining Armor motioned to kiss Cadance before snapping out of it upon realizing he nearly kissed the wrong mare just inches from her face.

“Whoa, whoa, there, Shining Armor! Don’t get all mushy on me! That’s your wife’s a.k.a. the bride's job!” Rainbow then turned to the other girls. “Well, what are we waiting for, the wedding’s almost ready to start!”

Instantly, the room was filled with party accessories with Rainbow herself having a party hat on her head along with a party favor in his mouth. She blew into it when Pinkie sang and held out a clock.

“There's a party here in Canterlot

And it's starting right away.”

Right away Rarity sang as pulled out her portable dressing room before dragging Twilight inside so she can get dressed before pulling her and the groom in for a photo shoot courtesy of Pinkie Pie.

“Let's get you dressed 'cause you're the mare

Hey, come on, it's your brother’s wedding day!”

Both Twilight and Shining Armor walked on out the door while walking arm and arm together. Pinkie and Rarity also followed arm in arm too. Once outside they decided to cover ground to the castle faster by flight. With Twilight carrying Shining Armor and Rainbow Dash carrying both Pinkie and Rarity they were able to carry on over there in short time. During the flight they fly over a crowd who sang another verse.

“Shining Armor and Cadance are gettin' married and it's gonna be the wedding of the century. Amazing how Shining Armor and Cadance could have come so far!”

“They're finally gettin' married!"

Pinkie sang.

“They're finally getting married!”

Celestia sang.

“They're finally gettin' married!

The jackals and hyenas sang.

“Look at all these presents!”

Bunga sang.

“We're finally getting married!”

Cadance sang.

“They're finally getting married!”

Twilight sang.

“I'm finally gettin' married!”

Shining Armor sang.

While Twilight and Rainbow flew inside with both Shining Armor and Rarity, Pinkie hopped off after seeing the latter struggle in lifting two ponies at once. Once she turned her attention back to the crowd she moved to sing like a Gospel singer, and leads the crowd in singing to the end.

“They're finally gettin' married at the party in Canterlot!

They're getting married and it's gonna be such a sight to see.

Come on, go with me

To the party in Canterlot!”

After the song had ended, Pinkie naturally is still going on and dancing wildly all while oblivious to the crowd raising their eyebrows and staring at her.

“A party goin' on now, gotta party, gotta party. Help me! Can't stop myself! Somebody rub the lamp, somebody rub the lamp, Ah, you know I feel it...” She gasped when she opened her eyes and realized that everyone was witnessing her embarrassing herself. ”Ooh, that's enough.” She quickly hops away humming cheerfully like nothing had happened.

“Well said…” Scar commented as he watched it through the magic produced on his palms before disappearing.

Sometime later, at the stables, Starlight watches the events in the pavilion. She begins unhooking a basket with her magic. From a basket behind him, Janja popped his head out and climbed out unable to take staying put inside it anymore.

“Phew! Man it’s about time!” He grumbled before turning to face the unicorn overseeing the setup go accordingly by placing a paw on her shoulder. “And explain to me why do you walk in the open while I suffocate like an animal?” Starlight quickly shoved the paw away and proceeded to pop a hoof on the back of his head. “Ow! Hey! What was that for?!”

“Violating my personal space for starters…” She pops another one on the back of his head.

“Ow!”

“…and that was for opening complaining about a direct order from Scar.”

Said lion / alicorn appeared before him looking on sternly at the hyena leader. “She’s right Janja! Someone has to keep a cool head.”

“Of course!” He fearfully complied but couldn’t help but voice. “I just hope this don’t involve another wild goose chase that involves the Lion and Pony Guard kicking our high tails till next week.”

“Trust me when I tell you no matter whatever happens next, is worth whatever pain and bruises you get out of it because the plan counts on that happening.” He then turns back towards where the wedding is happening. “Much like last time I already have another plan in place that’ll get this party really going.”

Once inside, the guests all took their seats with Twilight going around making sure all of the preparations are all set before proceeding on with the reception and found that everything is all set and ready for her big brother’s big day. A day that should have happened over a year ago. From Scar and Chrysalis’s machinations that resulted in an all-out war that followed that led to a whole emotional and bloody mess in the first place. It took them this long for them to finally be able to clean up in order to restore peace to the two kingdoms.

The more she saw how everything was coming along the more she thought of how remarkable the contrast the real Cadance reacted to the preparations. From Applejack’s baked goods, Fluttershy’s choice of singing birds, along with Rarity’s ideal wedding dress, to Pinkie Pie’s reception party, she really loved all of the above.

Hopefully there won’t be any more distractions and chaos today, after everything everyone went through since the last time, they definitely earned the right to celebrate this day.

By the time everyone is getting all settled inside, Spike had managed to make sure that every present that came in is here and accounted for just like Twilight would have asked of him. With his work done, he turned to Bunga who’s still admiring the gold in front of him.

“Come on Bunga, let’s go.” He turns to walk away before stopping and turning around when he saw that he isn’t following suit. “Bunga!”

“Yeah, yeah. I can see fine from back here.”

“Bunga! The wedding’s about to start!”

“I know! But there’s one thing that’s got my attention and I’m looking right at it!”

“Oh, really?” Spike crossed his arms and lifted a single eyebrow in his direction. “And is what that, exactly?”

“The loot, the loot!”

“Just come on!” Spike stated upon dragging Bunga on out of there and into their seats.

Princess Celestia stood up on the alter ready to marry the couple while her sister sat in the front row alongside the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard.

Just before the ceremony, Twilight noticed that the family crest on her brother’s uniform was crooked and used her magic to straighten it. After all, it’s not like the best mare to leave the groom looking slightly unadjusted. Their parents were in the audience watching proudly where their mother had tears of joy in her eyes that she quickly wiped away to avoid getting too emotional too soon.

Upon seeing that it is time for the music to start, Fluttershy orchestrated her bird choir to start singing the wedding music. Then the hall doors swung open where the Cutie Mark Crusaders, who were serving as flower fillies, came prancing in tossing flower peddles along the way. Following right behind them was Princess Cadance herself, the real deal. As she walked up towards the steps everyone looked on in admiration.

“Seriously, though…” Twilight took the time whisper to her brother. “I get why the queen of the changelings wanted to be with you, but how did you get someone as amazing as Cadance to marry you?”

“I told her she wouldn’t just be gaining a husband,” Shining whisper answered. “She’d be getting a pretty great sister too.”

Already Pinkie was already gushing at the sight. “Oh look, it's a Kodiak moment.” Suddenly from above a bear roared in her face. Fluttershy’s pet bear Harry. The crowd was briefly startled until Luna quickly lifted it up with her magic and levitated it outside while following after it to give the guards a quick order.

“Please put that bear out of here!”

Fluttershy could only wonder how one of her friend’s got on over here and all in a really bad mood all while conducting the music.

The CMC stepped aside so the princess can walk up onto the alter. Rarity started to get teary-eyed and wiped her eyes with a handkerchief while Applejack decided to put her trademark hat on while she wasn’t looking. When Cadance finally made it to the top of the alter, she and her soon-to-be husband lovely looked into each other’s eyes.

“Mares and gentlecolts…” Princess Celestia announced to the crowd. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of the real Princess Mi Amore Cadenza…”

“Princess Cadance is fine.” Cadance politely interrupted and insisted.

“Hmm.” Celestia respected her niece’s wish before pressing on. “The union of Princess Cadance and Shining Armor. The strength of their commitment is clear. The power of their love, undeniable. May we have the rings please?” Spike presented the wedding rings, which were placed on the bride and groom’s horns.

Upon seeing this from afar, Scar knows that is now time for the next part of the plan to proceed. “Get ready Janja, because I need you and your hyenas to distract the guards alongside Reirei and the jackals.”

“I’m guessing this is part of your plan?” Janja asked.

“A large part.” He nodded before tapping on the containers holding the jackals in along with the disguised changelings. “It's time.”

The jackals immediately all emerge while the changelings dropped the disguises, all while sporting vicious smiles and bared teeth and claws ready to wreak havoc on this wedding celebration.

Upon seeing that they are ready, he then turned to Starlight with this particular instruction in mind. “You know what to do from here, Starlight.”

“Yes…” She broke out one of her meanest grins to match. “…I do.”

“It's all so magical.” Rarity remarked all while blowing her nose into her tissue. “I'm not gonna cry. I'm not...”

Applejack sighed knowing full well what is going to happen. “Three, two, one…”

She bawled her eyes all while burying her face into Applejack’s dress.

“Hey!”

“Oh, sorry.” She quickly pulled out some cleaning rags and quickly cleaned it off.

The two ponies continued looking into each other’s eyes knowing that this is a new beginning for them.

“Well we’re here!”

“Together forever!”

From one of the rooftops Scar used his magic to angle his claws to the sun to shine a light in Starlight’s direction. She smirked knowing that’s the signal to start getting the chaos underway. She moved to see the dimwitted hyenas and jackals trying and failing to move an oblivious elephant and zebra. With time at the essence she shoved the four out of the way so she can do the job herself.

“Out of the way, furbrains and let me be the point man!” She fired her horn and magic right at the elephant and zebra who both felt a sudden startled and painful jab right up their rumps.

Suddenly the ground inside the castle began to shake thus sparking confusion and shock amongst everyone inside.

“What is going on?” Rainbow questioned as she looked around the room while flapping her wings and jumped into the air to avoid losing her balance.

“I don’t know but I know for certain that the Earth wasn't supposed to move until the honeymoon...” Pinkie commented while bouncing in place.

“Oh, oh, my goodness!” Rarity stumbled in her footing while trying to avoid tripping over her dress.

Just then the startled elephants rampaged through inside the room.

“Stampede!” Applejack shouted before quickly rushing over right in front of them so she can leap up and stomp on the ground so hard that the rumbling ground created a shock-wave to stop them in their tracks and skidded to a halt right in front of her caused them to bump into each other like a pile up car crash.

All of the elephants all stopped…

…except for one which bumped into them and caused the first one to stumble on over to the bride and groom to which Twilight was quick to use her magic to stop the elephant in his tracks and just mere inches away before he could hit the couple accidentally.

“Phew!” Twilight sighed in relief while blowing the smoke from the mental exertion she used into that spell.

Shining Armor and Cadance smiled at her for her bravery before they both looked up and noticed something alarming causing their smiles to instantly drop. The former was quick to charge and carry his sister out the way while Cadance quickly used her magic to stop a piece of the chandelier from falling on them with just a fraction of a second to spare.

The ensuing ruckus caused the gift table to shake to which Bunga just happened to be nearby to stop all of the falling treasures from breaking.

“What is going on here?”

Back inside the other room, when the elephants were all stumbling to get back on their feet, one of them accidentally lost his footing and ended up crashing into the ring bearer.

“Spike!”

She quickly rushed over and used her magic to free the poor dragon from the unfortunate position he found himself in.

Everyone all gasped in shock with had just happened. Fluttershy fainted while both Rarity and Ono quickly rushed over to the nearby window to vomit when their faces turned green.

“Oh my goodness!” The female elephant gasped while Twilight quickly rushed over to free him but not without looking aside in disgust. “I am sorry!” She then heard Fuli screeching in pain due to her accidentally stepping on her tail. “Oops! Sorry!”

“Ow.” Fuli remarked in irritation. “And before you keep on apologizing…”

“Sorry.”

“…Done?”

“Sorry…and yes.”

“What in the name of Equestria were all charging inside about?!”

“Hyenas!” Thurston yelled as he ran inside along with the many zebras.

“And jackals!” Muhimi yelled while running alongside her baby foal inside.

Sure enough, said jackals and hyenas appeared at the doorway sporting their usual malicious grins.

“That’s right!”

“And it seems that we arrived just in time for the party to get really started!”

Their leaders announced as they made their presence known.

“With a fantastic spread to enjoy!”

“Yummy!”

Cheezi and Chungu remarked while licking their lips and chomping their teeth together.

“Why am I not surprised.” Fuli commented just looking annoyed as heck that they would try to attempt an attack on today of all days.

“Janja! Reirei! You all shouldn’t have come!” Simba angrily called out to them.

“Why not?” Janja asked like he is pretending he doesn’t know why. “Surely weddings handle a few uninvited guests here and there.”

“Especially since there is a lot of food to be eaten. Not that everyone was going to eat every bite.” Reirei sinisterly added.

“Maybe if you both had tried taking the time to speak with me and Celestia directly and showed more respect for the Circle of Life, then maybe we could have worked something out with.” Luna bluntly suggested. “But then again, are you ever going learn?”

“Maybe…”

“…one day.”

They both weakly mustered up in response.

“Thought so.”

“Anyways, let’s just get this over with! I got a pack to feed!”

“And so do I!”

“Let’s!” Simba rushed in and smacked the hyena pack away with one arm swung at them. Reirei quickly tried to advance to maul the king only to slapped aside with his claws alongside the rest of her pack.

Not about to give up and cower this time, the banged up packs moved to circle around the lion king hoping they can be able to go all-out with any low and dirty blows they can seek out. But Simba was prepared for this and leaped up high and over everyone’s heads the very moment they all charged to pounce on him.

Simba smiled proudly at his effortless victory, though it didn’t last long due to the cracks created on walls leading to parts of the ceiling falling apart off onto the ground. But thankfully it was quickly restored when Princess Celestia flew up and quickly used her magic to fix up the cracks and restore the ceiling back to the way it was.

Not about to give up and take this lying down the hyenas and jackals all piled up on top of each other to the point they created a tall tower so they can see eye to eye with the sun monarch with Janja deciding to have the balls to look at the mighty alicorn in the eyes. Celestia herself returned the look though hers was more unimpressed than the attempted defiance by the hyena leader who’s nerves were quickly clear despite the brave face he attempted to put forward.

She simply used her magical tail to tickle Doigoi’s nose until he mustered up a sneeze that caused the whole tower to collapse on top of each other. Upon seeing the hyenas and jackals further beaten up the audience started to take amusement to the scene as they all started to laugh their butts off at the scene. All the hyenas and jackals could do was absorb it all in as they are supposed to continue distracting the crowd so Starlight can do her business here.

Meanwhile during the ongoing fight, said unicorn has snuck her way inside the room where all of the gifts are held all while pushing things out of the way.

“It must be here somewhere!” She muttered to herself just when she suddenly and instinctively ducked when a golden plate flew by her head. She turned to see Bunga, waving a candlestick around like a sword.

“Meet your match, Zorro!”

“Now come on little honey badger! You know better that to play with fire! It’;s a really dangerous and bad thing for even the bravest of the bravest to toy around with.”

“In case you haven’t noticed, Starlight! I ain’t the Lion Guard’s Bravest for nothing!”

He moved to charge and swing his sword-like weapon right at her, but missed every time given that the unicorn is a much more capable fighter. She quickly ended the fight by placing the little guy up with her magic and snatched and tossed the candlestick away like trash.

“You have a lot of spirit.” She stuffs Bunga into a nearby vase. And a lot of mouth. A very big mouth sputtering big talk.”

Even still he continued running his big mouth even though he can hardly get a word out to being stuck inside the fragile gold item.

Meanwhile everyone is still laughing at the hyenas and jackals still humiliating themselves as none of them dared to even try to advance on Princess Luna who simply and sternly looks down upon them while approaching them.

“Aren’t you going to tell us to run, furbrains?” Chungu once Janja more asked.

“No I’m not. Not even if I have to look at this mean, dark, steely pony in the eyes all dressed in black and blue like a storm that’s brewing over our heads.”

ZAP!

“OWWWW!” Janja was now shocked with electricity from head to toe.

“I heard that.” She remarked without a change in expression even with her horn still smoking.

“Good thing you didn’t call her a freak.” Cheezi stupidly commented thus making it worse for Janja.

ZAP!

“OWWWW!”

“Or creepy.” Chungu added.

ZAP!

“OWWWW!”

“Or cranky.”

ZAP!

“OWWWW!”

“Or grumpy.”

ZAP!

“OWWWW!”

“Or…how else would you describe her?” Cheezi asked Chungu.

“Oh, oh, I know!”

Janja quickly placed his paws over their mouths to get them to stop talking.

“Don’t say it!”

“Scary beyond all reasons!” Reirei spoke up with a mean smirk.

ZAP!”

“OWWWW!” Janja heatedly glares at Reirei. “Why?!”

“Because it’s funny and I hate hyenas.”

Janja huffed. “At least there’s something we can finally agree on in regards to you jackals.”

ZAP!

This time the bright blue strike of magic it came from Princess Cadance’s horn, a more hot blast of magic than lightning.

“OWWWWW! What did I do that time?!”

“That was for ruining my wedding!”

All while the Pride Landers and Equestrian ponies all continued laughing at them.

During the commotion, Twilight looked around and spotted someone in the gift room. Realizing that this is all too easy and simple to think that the futile party crashing involves the hyenas and jackals getting demolished by the king and princesses, her eyes narrowed as she snuck and tiptoed away without anyone noticing. All but Kion who spotted her going inside the gift room.

“Twilight…?”

“Where is it?” Starlight muttered as she continued pushing aside the gifts before finally eyeing what she has been looking for. “Ah, at last!” She grabs and holds up a shiny necklace before grunting in pain and falling to the ground. She looked up and saw her arch-nemesis Twilight standing before her holding the desired treasure with her magic.

“Hello Starlight, can I see your invitation?”

“Stay out of my way Twilight, and you won't get hurt!”

Starlight quickly grabs a nearby cat statue beside her and throws it at Twilight who groaned in pain while falling back onto the gift table. Starlight stands up and then reaches over Twilight, attempting to grab her treasure while Twilight wrestles it away from her along with fending him off.

“Fool, you don't stand a chance against the Queen of Thieves.” Starlight mocked.

“When I get up, I'll bow to you!” Twilight defiantly returned while kicking her away.

Starlight and Twilight continue to try to overpower each other with their magic. Neither pony has the advantage. At least not while in a crowded facility. In fact it wasn’t until the former used her magic to square attack her in the chest was she able to break up the even tussle before trying to make a mad dash out of the castle through the double doors.

But Twilight wasn’t having it when she quickly ensnared her with her magic by the legs. She then moved to throw her body across the hall and into the walls on the opposite end of the hallway leading up to the wedding pavilion room. Said impact caused the vase trapping Bunga in to crack thus freeing him.

“Bunga!” Kion cried out upon hearing the commotion from just outside the room.

“I’m okay!” Bunga quickly assured rather dizzily before passing out when Kion rushed over to his side.

Just when Starlight was seeing Twilight loom over her head ready to finish her off once more, the elephants and zebras panicked once more as they stampeded their way.

“It’s Starlight Glimmer!”

“Panic and Run! Panic and Run!”

Both ponies were alarmed when said herds came stomping their way in a panic. With no other choice the two ponies split apart for safety. When the dust cloud that appeared in the hallways cleared up, Twilight looked around the room and saw that she is the only pony standing here currently and that all of the other Outsiders have all used that opportunity to escape the castle through the nearby windows and ledges.

“Where’s Starlight?”

Said pony is outside of the pavilion just outside of the castle after having teleported her way out of the castle in the nick of time with no one inside the room wiser that she was here.

“I'll see you again, Twilight!” She vowed before teleporting away from the scene. “Only next time, it you won’t be so hot with pride…”

“Well said…” Scar commented with an approving nod as he watched from up high with how well it played out in his favor before teleporting away too.

Due to their fight the walls around inside started to crumble.

As the princesses worked their magic to minimize the damage, Pinkie looked around as if wondering she had a hoof in this.

“What?” She innocently shrugged. “Don’t look at me! This is not my fault! This was not built to code!”

“Nobody did nor said they were looking.” Beshte kindly pointed out.

“I know. Just felt right…” She said with a big grin as she pulled out a script to make sure she is reading it right. “…and yes it was.” She squeed much to her friends eye rolling annoyance but that was the least of their concerns.

More importantly is how the wedding of what was supposed to be just got cut short and ruined once more thanks to the ongoing shenanigans of the Outsiders along with Starlight.

“Yeesh.” Fuli commented as they surveyed the damages done during the event. “Good luck getting back the catering deposit if you had already placed it.”

“Now, Fuli…” Applejack interceded given that she is the catering for the wedding. “…just because I’m honest doesn’t mean I’m an understanding pony…” She assured before seriously added. “…though this might be a little hard to give back given the mighty costly circumstances involved…”

“Uh-huh.”

“Never mind that, what about the pavilion…” Ono pointed out to said damaged area. In a flash of magic the princesses were able to quickly repair it along with the area around them. “…oh, never mind.”

“What were you thinking, Twilight?!” Kion’s voice angrily demanded from the opposite end of the hallway. “You could have hurt Bunga!”

“I didn’t know he was stuck inside that vase!” Twilight defended. “And I was trying to stop Starlight!”

“Starlight?!” Kion exclaimed rather bewildered while everyone else in the main cast minus the royal family widen their eyes in alarm upon hearing her name. “What was she doing here?!”

“That’s my question too. And aside from ruining the wedding and trying to make off with this…” She holds up the item of attempted theft in question.

“The alicorn amulet?!”

“That was what she wanted out of that whole distraction…” Rarity commented when she and the others walked over to chime in on their discussion.

“…aside from the buffet?” Bunga asked as he glanced back at the destroyed tables with only crumbs left behind which he gladly helped himself to.

“Yep.”

“Hmm, that’s oddly peculiar…” Rarity continued voicing her thoughts as she studied the object in question. “…and…isn’t that Kyoga’s amulet?”

“It is!” Kyoga stated as she levitated the object on over her to so she can look it up closely. “How did it get here?”

“I don’t know.” Twilight replied still trying to piece the puzzle together herself. “She must have snuck in here somehow and managed to obtain it while our backs our turned.”

“Like when?” Fluttershy asked before gasping as she figured it out. “The Grand Galloping Gala!”

“And she must have figured out the right spell to access the safe.” Celestia commented grimly. “Even after I changed the spell so that no ordinary unicorn could access it.”

“You don’t suppose she somehow was spying on you when she did it?” Kion asked with worry.

“No, because otherwise my guards would have spotted her quickly.”

“Unless of course, said spy happens to be an expert of magic like Twilight…” Kion said while giving her the eye to match his tone.

“That could be true…” Twilight honestly replied even though she was put off by the sudden cold attitude her best friend was suddenly showing. “…she is quite a talented mare of magic herself and that’s coming from me.” She nervously chuckled before composing herself.

“Any other ways she could have known that spell…?” Celestia inquired. “…like something Scar taught you when you were on his side?”

“Yes.” She truthfully replied before explaining. “Before he was imprisoned he was able to use his magic to observe are current actions and doings without him being around to spot or sense his presence. That’s how he was able to keep his return a secret up until the first attempted wedding.” She then explained. “He taught me how to do it and someway somehow he must got taught Starlight how to do it too.”

“But how can Scar still be able to do any of this. You stripped him of his powers!” Simba reminded.

“That’s the part I’m trying to figure out.” Twilight half-truthfully replied. “He must have figured out a way to contact her and told her about it.”

“But how?” Applejack asked curious herself. “How would he be interested in having Starlight help her?”

“Probably because she is his next best bet of doing his dirty work while he tries to figure out a way to bust out of his prison someday.”

Twilight herself cringed to herself at not being fully honest with them on her theory.

“Is that it?!” Kion impatiently inquired much to everyone’s shock. “Is there something else you know you would like to share with the rest of us?!”

“Kion!” Simba scolded yet very surprised with his little outburst. “If she does she would tell us right away, wouldn’t you Twilight.”

“Of course…as long as it’s all solid proof evidence unlike the last time.”

“Like what?”

“Something that I’ll share immediately with you once I have it.” Twilight said rather shortly before walking off ahead. “But right now I can’t divulge anything at this time.”

“Twilight…” Nala called out to her in concern given that she left the group in a haste to no avail as she immediately turned the corner and paid no attention to their words with Spike the only one following after her.

To say the group was concerned was an understatement, they also could tell she might let on more than what she claims to but for some reason is holding back from telling them. Also none of them could completely understand why Kion got a little heated back there. It’s true that Kion values Bunga as one of his best friends but they all know Twilight meant no harm and truthfully had no idea that he was stuck in the vase.

Later that night, Twilight was in her Canterlot bedroom looking at a bulletin board theory she has placed on a wall featuring all of the depicted events that has happened since Scar’s imprisonment along with the handful of incidents that have happened in the Pride Lands and Outlands including what happened today. As for his main motive which it is depicted with a sticky note with question marks she has yet to piece it together.

Her thought of train was however interrupted when her brother and soon to be sister-in-law knocked on her door.

“Knock, knock, enter, enter. From your B.B.B.F.F and B.B.S.F.F” Her brother told her as they entered the room only to see that the lavender alicorn is too distracted by her train her thought to acknowledge their presence.

“Twilight?” Cadance called out to her which didn’t get her attention. So she moved to do something that she knows will get her attention. She spots a nearby ink pot and gives it a small, gentle, and firm tap.

“Ah!” Both the bride and groom giggled at her expense as she used her magic to move it back into its exact place before turning to face them while blushing. “Really funny.” She sarcastically remarked.

“Sorry, Twily…” Shining apologized. “…but we really wanted to talk to you and you were really invested into whatever is on that bulletin board there.”

“Oh…” She moved on towards it as she realizes she’s being cornered. “…I was.”

At that moment Spike entered her room too. “Sorry, Twilight. But you’ve been holed up here for hours and they were both really worried about you.”

“Twilight?” Cadance asked correctly feeling something is really bugging her. “What’s wrong? Is it what Kion said earlier?”

“Because if it is, I’ll make sure I’ll have a talk with him about it because he had no right to talk to you like that!” Shining seriously and fiercely stated that he’ll give him a good talking to if he has to and he knows he can if the last wedding is any indication.

“No, no. Not yet.” She replied while shaking her head against the idea while the whole memory of said chewing out is still fresh on her mind. “I mean honestly yes, part of it is with what Kion said but that’s not it.” She moved to direct everyone’s attention to the bullet board of her research and recent discoveries. “Most of it is this.”

“Every incident that has happened since Scar was imprisoned in Tartarus?” Spike quickly figured out before quickly moving to shut the door behind them so what is spoken remains just between them.

“Yes.” Twilight briefly looked at her close ones looking on at her in the room. “And in case if any of you are wondering why I didn’t say anything about this up until now is because…”She briefly stopped before looking around their surroundings to make sure they were alone before continuing with her confession. “…I wanted to make sure of what I was discovering is hard solid evidence before stating that my theory is correct.”

“Theory?”

“Like what, Twilight?”

Both Shining and Cadance curiously asked.

Twilight heavily sighed before explaining. “That Scar is still behind all of this from making contact with the Outsiders while he’s away.”

“But he’s supposed to be in prison!” Her brother reminded.

“That’s what I thought too…until I decided to act on my suspicions by checking up on him in prison…”

“And…”

“…he managed to escape prison and left duplicates of himself and his followers in his place by convincing the other creatures in Tartarus to give him their magic.”

Everyone hearing this all gasped in horror knowing of what this means for them.

“Then what are we waiting for?!” Shining exclaimed rather frantic just knowing the danger they are in. “Let’s go tell them now!”

“No!” Twilight firmly stated while looking on apologetically as she implored of him not to do so. “Don’t you remember what happened the last time I did something like that?!”

Shining Armor immediately calmed himself down as he looks on at his sister with regret as said memory reminded of him exactly why she is reluctant to do so.

“I do. I’m sorry, Twilight. I wasn’t thinking straight there.”

“Neither was I back then.”

“It’s okay.” Spike moved to assure both siblings. “It happens.” He then moved to get things back on track before past regrets could resurface. “Anyways, if what you’re saying about Scar is true and he is somehow managing to stay in contact with the Outsiders, why hasn’t he made a move to take over the Pride Lands again? Along with Equestria?”

“Because he’s not ready to do so, at least when he’s not at full power yet and judging that the changelings and lionesses have joined him they are seeking to find something or someone to willing to follow their cause.” She explained as she pondered her sole visit outside of Equestria of what they could be looking for before drawing to a realization. “And I think I might have a good idea who they may be after.” After whispering it to both ponies they were both fully understanding of her reasons.

“Then go and find out!” Shining encouraged.

“But what about the wedding?” Twilight reminded back. “Can’t have it without your best mare!”

“It can wait, Twilight.” Cadance gently assured with a warm smile. “Dealing with a potential big threat to our kingdoms is worth the delay. And since both Princess Celestia and Luna are aware of this too, they’ll understand too.”

“Are you sure?” She asked rather uneasy about the idea.

“I’m sure. What would this wedding be without the mare that made this all happen?”

“What do you mean?” Shining curiously wondered as he looks on the girls looking on like they know something about it.

“I mean by the fact that if it weren’t for her encouraging the bond we were meant to have together, we wouldn’t be having this conversation right now.” She answered while lovingly looking at him in the eyes. “Along with the fact that we ran charts, notes, and graphs one night to prove we are truly meant to be.” Shining briefly turned to glare at his sister who simply shrugged and grinned in response before returning the lovingly look back at the Princess of Love as there is no denying the truth right front of each other.

All while Twilight smiled proudly at the couple before looking on with newfound determination. “All right. I’ll do it! And I will be back in time for the wedding!”

“And we’ll be here waiting for you…” Cadance reassured.

“…at least until you actually need it.” Shining Armor added. “Well you can never be too sure, it’s bound to happen.”

“Are you kidding?!” Rainbow’s voice spoke up like it is a joke as she busted her way inside. “This is Twilight we’re talking about here. If anyone can work her way out of a jam, it’s her!” She then quickly realized her mistake. “Oops! My bad!” She quickly fixed the door and then knocked before entering. “Knock, knock. Enter, enter. Oops, again. Already in.” Upon seeing that she is really digging a hole here she decided it was best to just cut to the chase. “Anyways, Twilight. I know you would rather prefer to go alone and don’t want to risk putting all of us in danger and…”

“You want to come? You can.”

“But if you would just please…wait what?”

“I said you can come.”

“Really or are you just playing with me?”

“Nope, I am not. I don’t mind some company for backup and I was definitely thinking about inviting the most loyal friend of the bunch first. You can come.”

“Awesome!” Rainbow quickly flew around leaving rainbow trails around the skies as she sprinted outside to celebrate with super speed flying.

The others can only shake their heads knowing her given that she is never one to pass down an opportunity for adventure and fighting, but deep down they do know it is also because of her strong loyalty to her friend through and through. An admirable quality that makes her a great friend…

Speaking of which one of her friends seems to be emerging in a flash of light coming from a familiar mirror portal in the Ponyville Library…

Author's Note

As you can tell a certain party is here in Canterlot and it is a day everyone's been looking forward to both in-universe and audience wise for much time, and now it is finally here.

Or at least it is starting when certain followers decided to crash the party causing it to be delayed...again. Though on the funny side of things, you get to see the king, queen, and princesses in action even if they had to do little to take care of business. And for those wondering why that has never happened before, there's your answer.

And as you can see Scar's plot has gone underway and no crashing the wedding wasn't it, it was really the seeds planted from prior episodes to pave way for what's really going down. But from what we've seen so far, there is crucial information treated as confidential information, Kion's friendship with Twilight is starting to get testy, and it has something to do with a certain shiny item based on the amulet that was left behind.

Now onto Part Two where talks and bonds will happen as Scar's plot to ruin Twilight continues to unfold...

Episode 21: Queen of Thieves Part Two

Episode 21:

Queen of Thieves Part Two

Said mare happens to be none other than Sunset Shimmer who just happened to appear with a saddle-bag in tow but judging from the way she was looking she wasn’t looking very happy. She came in on all fours with streaming tears still plastered and falling from her face. Something had happened to her that made her come here for a change because otherwise she would be quick to find and tell Twilight about her visiting.

Interestingly, said mare swinging by to visit to gather her belongings she needs for her long journey just happened to hear the sounds of sniffling and crying from outside of the castle library. Her eyes widen in shock and surprise when she hears someone is in here without her foreknowledge and permission before quietly tiptoeing her way up to the room in question.

Spike having appeared on the opposite door with Rainbow Dash appearing alongside her ready to pounce on the intruder on her signal only for Twilight to raise a hoof to stop them while shaking her head against it.

“Listen…” She gestures their attention to the sounds of sobbing inside.

“Wait! I think know that voice!” Spike realized.

“Me too!” Rainbow also realized. “Sounds a lot like that same pony who snuck in the castle back at that Crystal Empire Summit!”

“That’s because it is…” Twilight said as she slipped inside, creaked open the door and turned on the lights inside the room to spot just the pony in question is sitting back on the couch with a hoof buried face still crying. “Sunset Shimmer!”

Sunset gasped as the lights turned on as she stammered to her hooves while quickly wiping away the tears in a vain effort to mask the recent heartache she was just showing.

“Twilight! Whoa!” She ended up tripping and falling backwards off of the couch before recollecting herself again. “Wow! What a wonderful surprise! I actually wasn’t expecting to see you today! I just came to get some things I might for a while. Just personal items, nothing big. So anyways…” She moved to awkwardly walk back towards the portal before the sound of her friend’s voices spoke up to stop her on the spot.

“Sunset…” Spike said. “…are you okay?”

“Yeah I’m fine.”

Spike wasn’t convinced. “Because you sounded like you were crying about really bad happening to you and you don’t sound like you want to go back.” He points out to the fact she barely moved an inch back on in the portal’s direction.

Giving up, she admits defeat before responding with a heavy sigh. “That’s because I was and really don’t want to go back.”

“Why?” Twilight asked. “Did something happen in Canterlot High?”

“Yes…” She honestly replied before moving to sit back in the couch so she can sit down and talk about. “…hope you got coffee because it is a really long and complicated story.”

“We got hot chocolate and apple cider.” Twilight offered. “In fact I think I still have Pinkie’s special pancake recipe so we can have breakfast while we talk.”

“Great idea, Twilight!” Rainbow quickly approved of the idea.

“It doesn’t have a happy ending.” Sunset warned the trio.

None of the less they still were more than willing to hear her out. “Well whatever it is I’m sure a Pinkie Pie surprise breakfast won’t make it any worse.” Rainbow commented before flying off ahead with Twilight pursing her as they race to get what they need. “Even if it happens to be a Midnight special.” Sunset turned her eyes to the clock and saw that it is indeed 12:00 AM on the nose before the big hand ticked a minute. “Okay, technically it is right after midnight but you get the idea.”

Sunset nodded in agreement getting the idea too, but still looked aside feeling downhearted especially when Pinkie’s name got mentioned like she is looking very betrayed by her.

After a good hour, breakfast was all set up and ready for everyone to dig in. All four really got to enjoy the pancakes. Twilight was there to fully enjoy the experience she didn’t give herself time to rest up for through her efforts to stay away from the castle that she saw as a replacement home for her destroyed library. Spike was able to sit down and enjoy the meal without having it to go. Rainbow Dash well aside from the first stack he was also more focused on downing a six-pack of apple cider.

“Ahh…” She gasped in delight after downing the second bottle. “…and now for number three…”

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight’s voice called out to her with a stern frown along with levitating the other four sealed bottles away from her. “No more! You’re the designated flyer remember!”

“Oh, right!” She wisely refrained from fighting for the right to drink those other four bottles since they do have a mission to be full alert and mentally ready for.

At the same tine Sunset, who enjoyed her serving of the pancakes, couldn’t help but still not feel like something worth getting all excited for seconds however. Especially when it reminded her of her source of pain. After finishing it the healing smile she sported faded as she put the plate aside while sliding it away from her.

“So how about you, Sunset? Enjoy those pancakes?” Spike asked with his mouth still full with the sugary sweets.

“Yeah.” She just said with her mind not focused on breakfast anymore.

Twilight seeing her despondent expression is all too familiar with it as she presses on with inquiry. “Expect, somehow this reminds you of the Pinkie Pie back home?”

“Part of it, yes.”

“Oh Sunset…I’m sorry. I should have asked what you wanted to eat.” Twilight apologized.

“No, no Twilight…” Sunset quickly shook her head against thinking it was the breakfast itself. “…it’s not the breakfast. It’s very delicious, it’s just Pinkie is part of the problem I now have.”

“What’s the major part?” Spike asked as Rainbow is curiously all ears of whatever her human counterpart did to her.

Sunset cringed as she moved to start explaining the story of how it all came to this.

“It all began a week ago when my school was just starting to celebrate Christmas or what you would all call here Hearth’s Warming.” She began as she recalled walking to school with Applejack as the other students made their way inside. “Given that I had spent every day up until encountering you for the first time, coming to celebrate the holidays is actually a first for me. Even before I came to Canterlot High I wasn’t very close to my family. And the first few years here…well…I wasn’t close to anyone. I mean couldn’t blame anyone for not wanting to hang out with me. I did sabotage friendships and manipulate people after all along with the ponies in the year leading up to my departure as Princess Celestia’s prized pupil.”

“So you were alone on the holidays…?” Spike asked shocked on par with Applejack.

“…for all that time?” Rainbow finished equally shocked with her jaw practically dropped to match her expression.

“Yep.”

“Oh my Celestia!”

“That’s, that’s…”

“…Awful!”

“Yep. Anyways…” She recalled when saying what she said to Applejack word for word before hugging her to assure her it’s all in the past now. “…after telling Applejack, she along with the other girls arranged for us to have sleepovers together in the nights leading up to Christmas so I feel more like their family.” She recalled the first sleepover where Rainbow introduced Fluttershy to video games while Rarity braided Sunset’s hair before painting Applejack’s nails while Pinkie happily munched on pizza she ordered with her sister bringing it over for her.

“Yeah I do remember you talking about it the other day…” Twilight smiled as she levitated Celestia’s journal with her magic.

“At first much like the sleepover we had during the whole Battle of the Bands it was wonderful and relaxing, but little did any of us know that someone has been leaking personal secrets of ours while our backs were turned.”

“Hey Piggy Wiggly!” One of the students called out to Applejack much to her shock since it was a nickname no one outside of her inner circle was supposed to know.

She looked around the crowd of murmuring students as they all walked inside the building trying to spot out who called her that. “Did some just…”

“Sis, sis…” Her little sister rushed over to her. “You gotta see this!”

She shows her the My Stable app on her phone that features a post by the appropriately named Anon-a-Miss.

“Did you guys know when AJ was a kid she loved playing with her pigs? OMG! She sat in the mud for hours! Her whole family calls her “Piggy Wiggly” cause she loves them so much! What a PIG!”

“WHAT?!”

“It got posted a couple hours ago!”

“What th…?! How the?!”

“Who’s this Anon-a-Miss?” Sunset wondered as she and Pinkie moved to take a look at the name of the user who posted that.

“Her profile was created the same time as the posts…no clue who she is!” Apple Bloom explained. “She posted on your page, my page, all of you guy’s pages…the whole school probably knows it by now!”

And truer to her concerns more students teased Applejack as they walked by.

“Piggy Wiggly.”

“Oink Oink.”

“Geez! That’s worse than what our Applejack went through when something similar happened here in Ponyville!” Rainbow commented with pity and disgust.

“No kidding!” Spike agreed.

“Believe me when I tell you it gets worse from there…” Sunset told them before continuing her story. “…the following night we had another sleepover this time at Rarity’s house where we decided to have a party. A musical dance party.”

“Hey! Hey Everybody!

We got something to say!

We! May! Be as different!

As the night of the day!”

Pinkie, Rainbow, and Fluttershy sang while the other girls watched from the side of the room.

“Are you recording them?” Rarity asked Sunset who is holding out her phone and doing just that.

“I want to capture the memories!” She defended.

“STAGE DIVE!” Pinkie cried out as she leaped to do just that from Rarity’s bed.

“EEP!”

“Oh goodness!”

She winds up crashing into a wooden closet door and ended up busting a hole in it.

“I guess that works better when there’s a stage.” The pink girl said rather sheepishly.

Fluttershy was the first to agree. “I think this is the sixth door you’ve broken by dancing, Pinkie.”

“Nope! twelfth!” Sunset corrected as she moved to help her friend up who is now wearing some of Rarity’s closet clothes.

“Rarity, what are all these clothes?” She asked.

“Oh, this is just my closet of shame.” Rarity explained while gathering up the clothes that emerged from it. “It’s where I put the outfits I make or buy that turnout to look horrible. I clean it out and donate everything to a clothing drive occasionally. I should probably do so again…” She looks in rather embarrassed of how her growing stock-pile has built up since the last donation she made.

“What are you talking about?” Pinkie asked as if she is talking crazy talk while wearing a blue tuxedo complete with a pink bowtie and a blue top hat. “This stuff is great! It’s the perfect material for outrageous selfies!” She added while pulling Rarity in for one. “Chesse!”

“Well…” Rarity reluctantly came to allow it. “…feel free to try them on, I suppose.”

The group proceeded to try them out and much to Rarity’s surprise they liked the outfits they wore even if they looked a little ridiculous while doing so. They proceeded to take selfies of themselves in the many outfits contained inside that closet.

Both Rainbow and Spike were left stifling giggles as Sunset showed them the cellphone of said selfies before they busted out laughing to the point they cried with how funny they all looked.

“Oh my goodness! These are so awesome!”

“I know!” She spots a photo of her wearing a black and red vampire costume. “Oh! I think I just found my next Nightmare Night costume! That is assuming Rarity is willing to make it for me.”

They both stopped when Twilight gave them the death glare.

“Anyways…”

“…please continue.”

Sunset proceeded to do so as she turned to Twilight. “By the end of the night, I was already closer than ever with them. I never felt so loved, so accepted, than, well…ever! I felt like I finally have a family again. And that wouldn’t have happened without you to help and support me, otherwise, I’d…well…you’d know what I would be.” Her warm smile faded into a sad frown.

“What happened?”

“That’s where it all happened. The messy part that drove me away from there…” She recalled later that week when she finds herself greeting the Mane Five in the locker rooms at school.

“Hey girls!” She happily greeted before seeing they are all looking on at her rather hurt and angry at her. “What’s going…on?”

After a tense moment of silence Applejack was the first to break it. “Sunset. Did you…have you lost your phone recently?”

“Um…” She pulls out said phone on hand. “…no? It’s right here. Why?”

“Then you need to explain this!” Applejack angrily held out her phone which showed her the various phones of their selfies from their third slumber party.

Said series of photos is accompanied with Anon-a-Miss having this to say. “OMG…what a bunch of dorks! Hahaha!”

“What?!” Sunset got ahold of the phone as the sudden shock is settling in. “How did she get our pictures?”

“They’re not our pictures Sunset…” Applejack replied.

“They’re your’s!” Rainbow finished heatedly and equally angrily.

“All those pictures were taken by you!” Applejack stated while crossingher arms along with Pinkie.

Sunset could not believe what she is seeing and hearing. “Wait, but…I’ve had my phone all this time! How did she…”

Applejack after snatching back her phone didn’t give her the benefit of the doubt. “Yeah, how did she?” She quickly got in Sunset’s face. “How did she get my nickname?! How did she get the pictures from your phone?!” She then quickly jumped to conclusions by pointing a finger in Sunset’s chest. “It was you all along! You’re Anon-a-Miss!”

“We trusted you, Sunset!” Rainbow scowled in disappointment. “We thought you were our friend!”

“How could you do this?” Rarity sadly asked with betrayed eyes that are about to cry. “After all we’ve been through together?”

“No wait, you guys…” Sunset pleaded while desperately asserting her innocence while on the verge of tears too. “I didn’t do this! I could never hurt any of you!”

“But you did!” Pinkie quickly said accusingly with a finger in her face. “You must’ve just been pretending to be our friend, when all along you were just after our secrets! You…you secret stealer!”

“No! No! I don’t know how she got this stuff, but it…it wasn’t me! I’m not this person!”

Fluttershy who’s been doing nothing but looking aside and not casting Sunset the angry eyes marches up to her and gave a tearfully and angrily rebuke in response.

“No, you’re not! You’re not the person we thought you were! You’re not our friend!”

Hearing those words left Sunset tearing up. “No, I…I am. I promise.” She once more tried to insist that the bond they’ve established up to this point is honestly and truly sincere. But none of them we’re buying the truth before their eyes.

“This is it Sunset. You’re not going to take advantage of us anymore!” Applejack stated with absolute refusal to hear her out much to her tearful dismay. “I’m sorry, but you did this to us. Tell whatever secrets you want. But we don’t have to listen..”

With that she led the other girls away from Sunset who can only drop to her knees and burst into heartbroken tears over their broken friendship with the sad part, she didn’t even do anything to them this time.

“…and that’s the whole story.” Sunset finished explaining. “Nobody will believe that I’m not Anon-a-miss…not even my friends. My former friends, I guess…”

The others listening were left absolutely stunned and nearly heartbroken themselves.

“Whoa…”

“Dang…”

“I’m so sorry, Sunset.”

The three expressed with heartfelt sympathy.

“It’s okay. It’s not like any of you have been put through the wringer like I have. And now I have no friends or family back there I can count on.” She looks on to Twilight before looking down feeling just torn up inside. “I’m just like you.”

“It’ll be okay.” She attempted to assure her friend before sighing upon seeing her pain as she too has been there before. “Oh, I just wish there was something I can do to help you. It’s never easy to lose good friends.”

“There was nothing you can do if were there. At least you had good reasons for turning evil while I was quick to get overly ambitious with Princess Celestia and then quickly turned into a mean and cruel bully antagonizing everyone around me there.”

“Even so, I still didn’t have any excuse for what I did and neither did the girls back in Canterlot High. They had no right to treat and accuse you like that, Sunset. And unlike me once, you’re not alone. You’ve got a friend standing right here on your side.”

“Make that two.” Spike stated equally supportive towards Sunset.

“Make that three.” Rainbow stated while pounding her fists together eyeing the portal in front of her. “Not to mention I’ll be back in three minutes!”

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight’s voice called out to her just before she could enter the portal just a mill-fracture of an inch in front of her. She turned back to see her friend shaking her head against it along with pulling the plug on the portal to firmly state that’s a really bad idea. “We’re not doing that! If we do then we might never be able to help repair their friendship assuming the permanent damage hasn’t already been done! Besides we got other things to worry about.”

“Like what?” Sunset curiously asked.

“Ever since we last saw each other, Scar managed to escape Tartarus. He managed to regain some of his magic and has been using it to stay in contact with the Outsiders. He just recently ordered an attack at my brother’s wedding just yesterday on top of engineering the chaos that has happened in the Pride Lands.”

“Can he do that?!” Sunset asked in shocked amazement of how relentless this guy is.

“I’m afraid so.” She regretfully nodded. “Especially considering it’s endless and limitless magic we’re dealing with.”

“What was he after?”

She presented Kyoga’s necklace with her magic. “This alicorn amulet was what she was after.”

“Really?”

“No, because she had already obtained before hoof.”

“That doesn’t make any sense.”

“I know!” Rainbow threw her hoofs up in agreement before moving to hover over it. “I mean with all of the food and treasures at that wedding, why go through all of that trouble to stir up a scene for this?!”

Said treasure produced a bright hot white blinding light causing everyone to don black shades to shield their eyes from the glare it produced when a visual of Twilight Sparkle herself appeared in the air before them.

“Your question is mine to answer! Starlight Glimmer sought it out as part of her and Scar’s plan in targeting the destruction of Twilight Sparkle.”

“Scar and Starlight Glimmer working together?!” Twilight asked.

“Yep.”

“Targeting the destruction of Twilight?!” Spike asked.

“How is she and you…” Sunset asked looking rather confused between looking at Twilight herself and her astral projection.

“Just an astral projection from the Tree of Harmony itself.” Twilight quickly and calmly explained.

“Yep.” The astral projection nodded once more. “I see all that has been, and all that will be.”

“Okay, so if that’s the case then tell us…” Rainbow moved to ask. “…what exactly are Scar and Starlight planning and what does it have to do with Twilight?”

“They’re planning something big. Something unfortunate. Something that is…plainly unforgivable.”

“Like what?” Spike asked.

“Scorched earth, literally. Hurting her real bad. And by the end of it, nobody will remember her.”

“Like anything specific?” Twilight asked feeling somewhat annoyed that there is not much to go on about.

“All I can say about all of this is that they are seeking a very powerful source of magic. Somewhere far away from Equestria.” She moves her hooves to make a picture appear. It is a bright white shiny pearl located in a net of tentacles from somewhere underwater, where it looks like there is a kingdom down below there.

It was there the gears starting turning in Twilight’s head as she recalled something when she away from Equestria during her self-exile.

Back while training under Tempest Shadow she was performing an obstacle course where she had run across the beach all while fighting and fending herself off against the Storm Guard who tried to attack her from all angles.

“More ferocious! More speed!” Tempest barked while observing the training session up closely. “I want to see you make quicker progress and those guards to go down hard!” The alicorn amped up the speed and intensity of her progress and attacks like she was ordered to. “Faster! Harder! Faster! Harder!”

Upon approaching the finish line she is intercepted by one large guard who appears to impose a challenge to keep her from finishing the course in time given his size and the speed he used to cut her off. Twilight looked on without fear in her eyes as she worked up her magic to give herself a boost along with a powerful blast and punch to knock him out cold. And with another boost she was able to quickly cross the finish line unchallenged.

After taking a minute to recover with some deep breaths along wiping the sweat off of her forehead, Tempest approached her with her usual stoic look. “Well done, Twilight, as always. But…there’s still room for improvement.”

“Like what?” She asked while drinking her water. “The last guard before the finish line?”

Tempest nodded. “Correct, Twilight. “ She moved to approach the same guard she just took down to give a proper demonstration. “While the use of magic was excellently used in a timely manner, it is utterly useless and can backfire on you if you don’t have it at your disposal. It isn’t a critique but something to keep in mind because there will come a time to where can’t rely on it all of the time.”

“Okay.” Twilight accepted the criticism none of the less. “So, let’s say I come to this part again. How would you suggest I do it without magic?”

“Like this.” Tempest demonstrated quickly charging at the guy before ducking when he moved to punch even managed to dodge the attempted swipe kick before finding himself on the receiving end of the swift kick to the face before she followed it up with a powering punch and kick to knock him out again while moving to leap across the finish line herself. “That’s what you need to strive for if you ever in that position.”

“Got it.” She said very understanding of her point with her tone promising to make good on it going forward.

“Good. Now get on over back to the starting line so you can do it again.”

The two scarred ponies moved to make their way on over there all while walking and taking their time in mentally and physically preparing for another go. During which Twilight asked Tempest this question.

“So given your past struggles with magic, has that ever happened to you before?”

“Yes.” She replied while still looking on ahead. “Back when we were ironically trying to find powerful sources of magic that is capable of restoring of what I lost when I was young. I came across word that a nearby queen has this magical source of power that allows herself and her fellow ponies or more accurately hippogriffs to transform into seaponies…” She has a spark of magic ignite to make the sound of someone’s fingers snapping. “…just like that.”

“Really? As powerful as you say it is?”

“Oh yes. It really does work. That’s how and why they are living underwater in this very ocean right now. Of course that’s bound to happen when you try and fail to take it from her.” She personally recalled the beatings she endured after getting busted in the act after taking advantage of her hospitality that day. “Not to mention she is a very formidable fighter even without her magic.”

“Ouch.” She cringed upon getting a feel of the pain Tempest went through back then. “That’s got to hurt!”

“It did. Not helped when my usual spark didn’t ignite when I counted on it the most that would have allowed me to beat her. So yeah, be prepared to handle yourself without magic should it come down to that, or else you might as well put together your will and kiss your sorry flank goodbye.”

“After hearing what you just said, you’ve certainly made your point crystal clear on that.” Twilight said with great understanding of her cautionary tale before moving to execute the combat exercise once more.

“Twilight?”

“Twilight?!”

“TWILIGHT?!”

The alicorn princess snapped out of her flashback episode. “Huh?! What?! Girls? Spike?”

“You okay?”

“Cause you looked like you were stuck in a trance for a second.”

“Not by what Pinkie would say but more like spaced out there is what happened.”

“I was.” She admitted. “Mainly because I think I now know what both Scar and Starlight are after.”

The three all looked on wondering what it could be as they are all ears for whatever their friend has to say…

…all while both Scar and Starlight witness the scene from the comforts of the caldera of the Outlands Volcano and judging from their pleased reactions everything is going down all according to plan.

The next day, the four friends all set out towards the Equestrian border on past and beyond it while passing by the various places Twilight flew and traveled across when she left Equestria. Said places, included the hot desert to which they had plenty of water and covering attire to protect themselves from the scorching heat. Going through the thug village where thugs were intimidated by the scarred pony to wisely refrain from confronting her and her friends. In addition they were able to get a free boat no charge so they can scout their way on over to Mount Aris.

Once they got nearby to the tallest mountain nearby along with the gloomy gray skies surrounding the area around them they started looking around for any signs of seaponies swimming around.

“According to my research, they should be around here.” Twilight told everyone. “I wonder where they’re hiding?”

“Well they’re definitely not around here.” Spike pointed out. “Though that’s pretty obvious right now.”

“And they’re not flying around…” Rainbow reported while flying up high in the skies to make sure that’s the case. “…so that’s out of the air too…” She giggled at her own joke. “…so anyways, that must mean…”

“…that our hipogriffs are underwater.” Sunset finished as she drew to the same conclusion too.

“Then we better hold onto them when we get there.” Rainbow added while cracking another joke all while laughing at it once more.

“Yeah you’re right, Rainbow Dash.” Spike agreed. “Because we’re going to need to if we’re going to see ponies.” Both he and Rainbow both shared a laugh together much to both Twilight and Sunset’s eye rolling annoyance.

“Don’t you both think you’re jokes are going under…?”

“…because it’s not like we’re getting a big wave of applause for these jokes?”

“Or just drowning in general? Yeah that’s true blue.”

Everyone went silent for a moment before they all burst out laughing together unable to resist laughing at their jokes.

“Why are we laughing?!

“They’re just so bad they’re so good!”

“Twilight!”

“Sunset!”

Both Spike and Rainbow called out to them with sudden horrified reactions as big shadows loomed over their bodies.

“What?” They asked in unison. They quick noticed the sudden shadows casting over them literally.

“I’d hate to be abrupt. But I think mother nature has decided to cast a shadow on our ride.”

“And by that we mean literally.”

Both Rainbow and Spike pointed up to get them to see what they’re talking about.

They look up and see a huge tidal wave about to swallow and wash them away.

“Hang on!” Twilight quickly worked her magic to surround the group in a ball before quickly having it sprint on over to the nearby caves like a super speedy Rainbow Dash like motor boat.

In the nick of time, they were all able to escape the tidal wave just before they could get caught up and washed away to an uncertain doom or worse, although they did get a splash that had them washing up ashore with nothing but wet soaking manes upon reaching dry land.

“Phew! That was close!”

“No kidding!”

Both Spike and Rainbow shared in relief.

“Are you sure we better off with just the four of us, Twilight?” Sunset asked feeling uncertain about this. “I mean it would probably go much smoother if we had the whole team backing us up.”

“It would, but what we’re talking here is something none of them would want any part of.” Twilight asserted. “Both Beshte and Fluttershy would be heartbroken if we spat on their kindness. Applejack and Fuli would frown at the idea of dishonesty. Pinkie and Bunga would be the opposite of laughing about it. Rarity and Ono would take offense at the idea something not generous being committed. Kyoga would play the smart girl role and be like “I told you so.” about it. And Kion was just get all fiery furious and say we don’t belong in the Pride Lands and Equestria. As if getting yelled at by him wasn’t bad enough.”

“Yes…they would.” Sunset couldn’t argue about it there as the similar pain is still raw in her mind while Twilight is feeling equally sore at Kion for what he said back then.

“And they would slow us down from stopping an evil lion along with an equally evil unicorn who is trying to obtain and take over our kingdoms even if we told them." Rainbow added in her friend’s defense. “So yeah, someway somehow we got to get it before they do.”

“And I’m sure if we explain ourselves and promise ourselves we will return it after we’re done with it, they’ll understand why we did what we did.” Spike reluctantly added in agreement though still very uncomfortable about the idea they already planning.

“Mm-hmm.” Twilight agreed while a tad reluctant herself. “But with a do or die opportunity in front of us, how can any of us pass it up?”

“When you put it like that, no reason at all…with the sole exception of digging into our past selves of course.” Sunset answered with no other reason to say otherwise. “I guess it’s a matter of being able to pull this all off without it backfiring on us in the slightest. Question is how?”

Twilight gave it some thought as they moved to enter inside the cave leading into Mount Aris. “I think I might have an idea once we get there.” She said with a certain degree of confidence as they move to find the secret hiding area of the hippogriffs to obtain their special treasure before any harm can come to it.

Meanwhile back in Canterlot, most the Lion and Pony Guard are all assisting the Royal Family with the wedding preparations. Much like the last attempt, Beshte is assisting Applejack with the catering prep along with the heavy lifting. Bunga is helping Pinkie deal with the party props. Ono is flying around overseeing the progress and being alert in case the Outsiders try to attack the castle again. Kyoga has been entrusted to organize the event in Twilight’s absence along with keeping watch alongside Fuli since she couldn’t coach Rainbow in her signature Super Sonic Rainboom flying in the latter’s absence.

As for Kion he has pretty decided to watch from the sidelines given that he is still being resentful towards Twilight’s secrecy with nothing but the similar frown Twilight had when she correctly suspected something in regards to the changeling queen’s impersonation of the bride. He walked around just to make sure nothing’s wrong before carrying on.

“Hey Kion!” Fuli greeted. “How are the others?”

“Fine. Everything’s coming along together for the wedding. Hopefully the best mare of the wedding actually has the decently to show up.”

“Of course she will. Why wouldn’t she?” Fuli was taken aback by her friend’s harsh words.

“Maybe because she’s plotting to take over Equestria when we least expect it.” Kion bitterly replied much to Fuli’s shock.

“Now come on, Kion. Don’t you think you’re too harsh on her. She didn’t know Bunga was stuck inside that vase when she was fighting Starlight.”

“Of course she didn’t know. Just like she didn’t know about of what was happening around her when it happened. Just like she did when she turned against us when we least expected it. And just like she helped the most dangerous enemy conquer the Pride Lands only to get backstabbed when she least expected it right after stabbing us in the back!”

“But she wouldn’t!” Fuli assertively stated back. “She’s a changed mare who’s making progress in turning herself around and just wants what is best for her brother who is trying to get married without anymore disputes going on around him and Cadance!” Kion scoffed in response as he briefly turned away. “What is your problem?! What else she did do to you that’s got you acting like this to her?!”

Kion snapped as he turned back around. “You want to know my problem?! My problem is the fact that Twilight has been lying to us all this time. From keeping us in the dark of her plan to defeat Starlight, claiming she has her powers under control. She knew what would happen when Rainbow when crazy at the beginning of winter and that we were lying behind her back and somehow magically figured out that Beshte and Applejack were in danger. She knew when she could have told sooner and prevented what happened yesterday from even happening! That’s why!”

His outburst not only had Fuli looking on in stunned shock with how unexpected it came, but it also caught the attention of Kyoga and Shining Armor when the latter just happened to come by to check up the girls.

“Kion? Fuli? Is everything okay?” The tall unicorn asked.

“No, we’re not.” Fuli answered while looking on very disappointed with Kion right now. “And why you may ask, is because Kion here is apparently very distrustful towards your sister ever since she was reformed.”

“Kion? Is this true?” Shining Armor inquired expecting an honest answer at the same time the rest of the Guard present showed up to investigate the source and reason for the sudden shouting they heard across the castle but out of respect for the two watched from afar while Fuli stepped to the side.

“Yes.” He reluctantly replied. “I think you heard me if I was that loud.”

The groom was a little put off before moving to be firm with him. “Well, if you want me to hear you out reasonably about my sister, I’m going to have to insist that you be more specific.”

Upon seeing the stern look from the stallion’s face him had the young lion remind himself that he needs to choose his next words very carefully to avoid what Twilight endured back at the wedding rehearsal from the first attempted wedding.

“Well…it’s nothing…very personal…it’s just…considering that Twilight seems to know exactly what will happen next as far as the Outsiders are considered…it’s like she always knows what is going to happen before it happens. You know what I mean?”

“Yes, I do.” Shining replied while softening up a bit. “And it’s also a matter of wanting her to be more honest with you, isn’t it?”

“Yes. How did you…”

“Because I’ve been there before in regards to this wedding. It wasn’t up until the day it was going to happen that she found out I was getting married and that really was admittedly a mistake on my part. From carrying out my duties to the Royal Guard to needing time to unwind somewhere in between proposing to Cadance and the wedding I didn’t have or more accurately made the time to tell her myself. It would seem my letter to her never made it to her given how upset she was when she first saw me that day.”

“You wrote her a letter during your spare time?”

“Yes I did.”

“And she never got your letter?”

“No. I sent it to her right after I proposed to Cadance. Right after Twilight left for Ponyville. Though I wonder…”

“…if Scar had something to do with that?”

“Or maybe something your mailpony did? I’ve heard of how…clumsy she can be.”

“True.” But none of the less the point about the desired honesty still remains. “It’s just whether or not she had a reason to keep us in the dark I just feel that she could have been a little more honest and open with us.” Applejack looked on very understanding as he listen in to their conversation.

“Mighty understandable, partner.” Applejack said deciding to chime in on their conversation at that moment. “I might yes she should have been told the truth a little more, but I can understand on some cases whenever she decides not to tell the truth and maybe she did have a good reason for not telling us when she should have. I mean it’s hard and I’ve been there done that on occasion. In fact I actually told quite a few whoppers back when I was young.”

“A few…” Kyoga looked on like she is pulling their legs with that statement.

“Okay, okay, a lot of whoppers when I was young.” She corrected herself. “But all that aside I feel that there is more truth to her story than she is telling. Point being, maybe we shouldn’t be too hard and pushing towards her into telling us the whole story. Chances are there is something about her story that she just isn’t feeling comfortable about sharing with us.”

“Exactly, darling.” Rarity agreed. “Whenever she feels comfortable telling us she’ll tell us.”

“And we’ll hear her out no matter what.” Fluttershy added.

“And if it’s something really funny and after all of this, we’ll all have a good laugh about it!” Pinkie cheerfully stated before having a melody feeling inside of her. “In fact, I feel a much-needed song coming out of me!”

Music started playing around them as a set of instruments were used to strum up said song. All while Pinkie sings with stars floating around them and on them from wearing a red robe with a tall blue hat, to wearing a half-horse costume carrying a bow and arrow, to a simple Greek robe.

“It's a big, bright, beautiful future

Thank your lucky stars you're alive!

Ya got someone special to talk to

A friend that you can trust for life!”

She then fantasizes both Kion, Shining Armor, and Twilight spending time together while literally roping them in with one of the stallion’s ties.

“She's been living on her own

With no friendly ties

But those solo days are done

You'll be two of a kind

Spending quality time

Together

As brother and sister!”

She then continues while working her imagination in her fantasy magic. A fantasy where Kion, Twilight, and Shining Armor are bonding together over fun time and work time related events.

“Flying paper kites

Takin' sky flights

Workin' hoof in hoof

Paintin' the castle, mowin' the grass

First at ten-to-go

With your brother and sister-o.”

During the football game, Pinkie literally holds a mallet over the field before the three find themselves in for a ride in a ship in space.

“Once you break the ice

You can postulate sibling advice

See, you're traveling at the speed of light,

that's the theory of relatives!”

The four all return to Earth in the fantasy world where Kion is greeted to Pinkie holding up a foal and a cub for him to hold.

“It's a fine, fantabulous future

I see fruit on the family tree

You'll be great as a cool uncle

Bouncing cubs and foals on your knee!”

While watching on Princess Cadance felt a little discomfort on her stomach during that last verse but still smiled knowing what this means.

Next up both boys and girls are all on the court playing a basketball game. Both Kion and Shining Armor. Twilight and Pinkie Pie. Both pairs trading baskets and blocks in a family friendly manner and having fun together.

“You can fall asleep on the comfy couch

After playin' one-on-one

Or two-to-two

Dremain' back-to-back,

That you walloped the Shaq

Together

As brother and sister!”

During the part where they are somehow riding bumper cars both Shining Armor and Kion took this time to each sing a verse themselves.

“May be a bumpy ride.”

“We'll make it side-by-side.”

Next thing they know they see Pinkie dressed up as a travel guide about to ride down a steep downhill slope on a roller coaster with a Twilight doll appearing in between them.

“Good afternoon, I'll be your travel guide

Move over, Kion,

Make room for your sister-o!

You got a whole new shoulder to cry on

Take a chance, now give it a spin

You've had chums for pallin' around with

But you never had a friend like her!”

After making paper cutout dolls of Kion, Twilight, and Shining Armor, Pinkie then gave it her all in her big finale just when Kion runs up to join the white stallion again.

“Put her checkered past behind you now

No more seeing her livin' on the run

Face the big, bright, beautiful future

Together... together... together... together...

As brother and sister!”

“Yeah.” Kion said starting to feel that he was being too hard on Twilight. “Couldn’t have said it any better!”

“Exactly!” Pinkie stated happily. “Just you wait! When Twilight gets back along with Rainbow and Spike! All will be all smiles and laughter again!”

"And I can promise for a fact that Twilight will be back in time for the wedding." Shining further assured. "And after what would the wedding be without the mare who made this all possible?"

Kion smiled in agreement upon seeing and hearing her words thinking the same way already ready to apologize to Twilight the second she comes back.

Although little do they know that some things are easier said than done. At least not yet, especially where both Scar and Starlight are concerned...

Scar chuckled in amusement while spying on their conversation inside the caldera. “Truer words have never been spoken, Pinkie Pie. Only that it not’s going down exactly how think it’ll turn out…”

“Especially when there’s something fishy afloat…” Starlight mischievously added while eyeing the four travelers about to approach the pool of water which may be their best chances at finding this special kingdom that they are looking for. “…or more accurately right under their noses.”

Scar could only shake his head in response before replying. “Especially when you know what’s coming next for our dear friend Twilight Sparkle.”

“Oh yes, Scar, because this is the part where things start to get a little heated for our treasure hunters.” Starlight maliciously remarked while ready to watch the next part of their plan as they look on a sparkling kingdom that awaits them. “And I don’t mean it in a good way.”

“Indeed it won’t…”

Before tackling the water, Twilight used her magic to place scuba and diving gear around their bodies so they can properly breathe underwater. After sharing a look of confirmation Twilight led the way by diving into the pool with the others following after her. And before they knew it they were all sucked down the drain one by one as they are transported to their destination down below.

When they reached the end of the whirl pool, they were right in front of the hidden entrance where the kingdom they were looking for has appeared before their very eyes. And when they floated on inside, they came across a beautifully elegant throne room complete with decorations and accessories beyond their imagination. And up high towards the ceiling lies what is definitely the kingdom’s most prized possession of their ruler. A bright white and shiny magical pearl. The one that their enemies are looking for and seeking to obtain…

Author's Note

Here in Part Two is quite a big surprise I'm sure none of you were expecting and that is the first appearance of Sunset Shimmer herself here in an FIM episode here to take recovery away from Canterlot High after a certain gossip storm spewed all over the place and she winds up with the blame for it.

(So before any of you who know the comic and comment, please refrain from harsh comments, okay)

That said, I'll tackle more on how to further approach that in another episode but for onto the main plot.

She along with Twilight, Rainbow, and Spike all venture on beyond the Equestrian borders where they plan on taking action in stopping of what is believed to be the target of Scar's next move though little do they know is that they're about to swim right into a trap that he has set. And that is when things start really getting heated let me tell you that is where the fun for the villians really kick into gear.

At the same time Kion still stewing over her lack of trust with Kion with his friends comes to see that he was overreacting just a bit while they were understanding of his frustrations as both sides come to an understanding. Though given what's about to go down it might not last.

Anyways, onto Part Three...

Episode 22: Queen of Thieves Part Three

Episode 22:

Queen of Thieves Part Three:

The next day, everyone has gotten everything together so they can prepare for a private wedding rehearsal in preparation for the rescheduled wedding.

In the hallway, both Princess Cadance along with the girls are all waiting outside waiting for the music to start so they know how to walk inside during the actual ceremony like before where Fluttershy and Ono are flying and pacing around the doorway anxiously.

“Has anypony seen Twilight?” Shining asked everyone as he approached them.

“Haven’t seen her since last night. Or Rainbow Dash and Spike too.” Kyoga shook her head.

“Oh…” Ono groaned knowing that it’s not like Twilight not to show up late without a good reason. “…I do hope nothing's wrong.”

”Think maybe we should dispatch a search party?” Fluttershy equally worried asked.

“Now Ono, Fluttershy…” Cadance gently assured while flying over to them to get them to stop in their tracks. “…I’m sure they’re on their way.”

Inside the room where Shining Armor inside is where Kion and the boys are wondering the same question.

“Where are they?” Kion anxiously wondered.

Just then thanks to an accidental burst of magic from Shining, Bunga transformed into Pumbaa.

“Hakuna Matata!”

“Did someone call us?” The real Pumbaa asked before seeing a copy of himself along with best friend Timon.

“Uh, never mind. We’ll come back later.” Timon said before they quickly sprinted away deciding to pretend they didn’t see that.

After they left, the magic wore off and Bunga turned back to normal.

“Whoa... I was having an out of movie experience expect within a universe where said movie happened.” That said he moved to speak of what he thinks could be happening to their friends who have yet to show. “Anyways, knowing Twilight and Rainbow Dash, my guess is that they want to make an entrance.”

Kion can only look on unsure as everyone is starting to get increasingly worried about them.

At that moment was when the four missing friends were all looking on at the pearl inside the throne room hoisted in the air by the finest tentacle security up near the ceiling, looking on whether they should do this or not.

At that moment Spike and Rainbow returned to both Twilight and Sunset with information to share with them.

“Coast is clear all ways!”

“And here are the keys and lock picks.” Spike handed Twilight said items needed to obtain the pearl should they choose to do it. “I’m sure you know how to use 'em?”

Twilight looked on unsure about as she clenched the keys and lock picks before moving on forward to where the pearl is being held with Spike swimming alongside her.

“I know this goes against every element of harmony I stand for but I can promise you this Spike, after this, I go straight.”

Just before she could move to reach it, Starlight suddenly appeared right in front of her.

“Straight to the dungeon!”

“Ah!”

“Starlight!”

Before Twilight could do anything about it, Starlight quickly zapped her square in the chest with an lightning powered spell that zapped her into unconscious.

“Yes, Twilight. We’ve been expecting you!” She moved to fish the keys and lock picks out of her hooves just so she can obtain the pearl which triggered the security alarm. “Oopsie. Looks like my work here is done. Have fun!”

She quickly made her escape while zapping the rest of her friends into unconscious along with the pearl she left behind while leaving them at the hippogriff guards mercy just when their queen appeared from behind…

Back in Equestria, enough time has passed for everyone to figure out something is definitely not right with what is happening.

“Do you think something is wrong?” Fuli was the first to pop the question everyone’s thinking now.

Kion turned to Ono. “Ono, can you find them?”

“I’ll see if I can spot them out!” Ono quickly flew out to give the whole kingdom a good scan. “I just need a good sighting and a good visual…or not.” But he had no luck before returning inside to see everyone looking on at a surprising and shocking sighting. “…hey, what’s everyone looking it? You got an idea where she is, a lock of her hair, anything she recently wore…or maybe…” Ono gasped. “Hapana!”

Ono looked up to see Queen Novo herself appearing through a magical visual on Kyoga’s amulet. There she presented a handcuffed Twilight before them being held by her general.

“Huh?”

“What?”

The others could only say before Princess Celestia moved to demand an explanation for why she is seeing her most faithful student in this position.

“Queen Novo! What is the meaning of this?”

“Your majesty, my apologies for the less than ideal circumstances right now but here what I have right I now in case you haven’t met her is the Queen of Thieves.”

“Twilight!” Kion called out to her with a paw raised out to her in vain since it is a magical video conference call who likewise can only look surprised at seeing the restored compassion for her.

“We seized her in the throne room! She caught trying to steal this right when my back was turned.” Shows everyone the pearl as proof.

“No...” Kion said as if he is buying that this is really happening while both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance can only look on in disappointment that she got caught.

The queen then has the other guards present her friends also handcuffed. “And these are her accomplices.”

“Big misunderstanding! It's all a hoax. A set-up. A frame job. slap on the wrist and, uh, community service kinda thing!”

“Yeah, what he said!”

Both Spike and Rainbow frantically spoke while Sunset can’t bare herself to look at her former mentor in the eyes who can only return a despondent look in return. Just when she was hoping to hear and see her again, it happened in one of the worse ways possible.

“Now I know why you really disappeared...” Kion commented in disappointment at Twilight who can’t even look at anyone in the eyes right now.

“No, Twily…”

“Shining Armor, did you know?” Kion asked upon seeing the look in her brother’s eyes.

“I thought it wouldn’t come down to this. I actually thought she was going to negotiate with her about it.” He honestly replied yet still can’t help but shake off that this is all a huge misunderstanding since he knows his little sister is not a thief. At least not an incompetent one.

Kion upon seeing the look on his face only reinforced the disgusted scowl on the young lion’s face. “Just like how I thought I could change her. Even after trying this is what happens.”

“You can get me to change the colors on my mane, Kion. You can't change who I am.” Twilight said in a rather defeated tone with nothing else she can say without making things worse for everyone.

“And the law is crystal clear on what we must now do!” The queen firmly added.

“Aunt Celestia, isn't there another way?” Cadance pleaded of her to do something about this.

But given the proof they have, it wasn’t looking in their favor. “I'm afraid there is not for now.”

“At least one thing we agree on.” Queen Novo commented before turning to her guards. “Take the prisoners to the dungeon.”

“Dungeon?“ Spike exclaimed in shock by that statement.

“For life.”

“Life?” Rainbow exclaimed equally shocked.

Two of the guards placed muzzles on both Rainbow and Spike’s mouths before being led away along with Twilight and Sunset by the guards just when Queen Novo canceled the magical intermission.

“Dad…?” He implored of him hoping that there is some way that he get her to drop the charges against her.

“I’m sorry, Kion.” Simba could only console his son. “There are some things that even a king like myself can’t do.”

“And the same can be said for us.” Luna regretfully added. “As there are some things that even our magic combined can’t make come true. The best we can do right now is head on over there to get the whole story and maybe convince her into reducing her sentence on friends now being held in their custody. But it’ll all have to wait first thing in the morning.”

Kion proceeded to leave just feeling nothing but anger and disappointment in them even though that’s not the whole truth. If only they knew what really happened, he would be seeing things more clearly.

Kyoga on the other hand, is looking on at the amulet like there is something not right going on as it has never been known to do things outside of giving bursts of element magic when tapped into and called upon by her alone. It’s like something about her amulet is off here...

At the same time both Scar and Starlight are looking on in satisfaction at the scene, both highly pleased with how well it all worked out in their favor inside the Outlands Volcano.

At night, Kion is in his room at the Canterlot Castle, completely distraught and angry over what he thought he saw hours ago. Not only Twilight, Rainbow, and Spike were all busted in an attempt to steal the Seaequestrian queen’s prized pearl. But also they had Sunset Shimmer as their accomplice who was also in on the whole thing. Not to mention, that her brother and future sister-in-law knew about this and didn’t say anything too. By the time, the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard regrouped with him, they have managed to come across him still stewing over it.

“Kion…?”

“…How are you feeling?”

Both Beshte and Fuli asked in concern for their friend.

“Fine. Just fine. Expect that I just found out that Twilight went behind my back again and attempted to commit theft behind another kingdom’s back.” He angrily replied.

“Yeah, you’d think a double-cross wouldn’t sting.” Bunga said trying to lighten the mood only to be meet with annoyed frowns from the others. “Too soon?”

“Yep.” Fuli nodded. “Although considering all we saw was well you know, there’s got to more too it that we had just happened.”

“Yeah!” Bunga agreed. “It could have been a frame job!” Holds up an open picture frame. “Or even set-up!” He puts in a hand-painted picture of both Scar and Starlight high-fiving over seeing Twilight thrown behind bars. “It’s true! It could have turned out like that as part of some sinister plot to burn Twilight to the ground." He pointed out while noticing and quickly sliding some leftover dust and ashes under the rug.

Kion growled not even close to being impressed as he looked out the window. “After everything we went through this is what I find out! I was so stupid to think I could change her!”

“Trying to show her a better life wasn't stupid, Kion.” Beshte attempted to assure just when Ono appeared beside him with something to say himself.

“Aside from being quick to judge before even getting to know the whole story.”

“Along with leaving her alone with both the most head-strong flyer and gold-digging dragon, yeah that was stupid.” Bunga honestly added to which only further rubbed salt in the lion prince’s wound.

“Everything was perfect before she came into my life. I just want things the way they were.” Kion turns to the others with a serious and determined expression. “Pinkie, I need those paint cans. Lavender purple. Rarity, I need some purple and pink hair dye and purple contacts.”

“Huh?” Pinkie was now confused.

“Kion, darling…” Rarity tried to laugh it off like he is joking. “What did you combine your mane too far back…” She lightly brushes back her curly mane before handing him the requested items along with Pinkie. “…I mean come on. Where exactly are you going with this?”

“Yeah! Why would you want to dress and look like Twilight?” Pinkie asked in agreement with the fashionista’s argument.

Kion didn’t answer as he got to work with what he has been given while moving to do so in his room.

“Um, Kion…” Ono looked on as he managed to get a peek on what his friend is doing to himself “…what are you doing?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Bunga replied looking on like he is slow on the uptake while painting himself black and white with some of the extra paint. “He’s painting himself to look like Twilight.” He then spoke out to his friend. “I mean don’t you think you might want to do something that doesn't actually say “Arrest me!"? Or further framing and setting one of your best friends up for another crime she didn’t commit?”

Kion emerged from his room so everyone can see him as an exact Twilight look-alike like she appeared and Kion disappeared. “Perfect. Just like Twilight.”

“Earth to Kion!” Kyoga spoke up trying to get him to pay attention to her like a much needed reality check. “Earth to Kion! This is one your best friends speaking! Trying to tell you that there is nothing for your future if you dress and paint like this!”

“You’re wrong, Kyoga.” Kion replied while moving aside so he can look out to the horizon beyond Equestria’s borders. “Because the guards along with their queen will never know I was there.”

“You mean…” Applejack asked while Ono dropped his jaw while gasping in shock alongside Rarity, Fluttershy, Beshte and Fuli.

“Oh my!”

“No way!”

“Seriously?!”

“Yes, Applejack. I’m breaking Twilight out of that kingdom’s dungeon. Tonight, the Queen of Thieves will make her most miraculous escape ever... out of my life.” He proceeds to fly on ahead all while the others look on very worried for their friend just knowing that this is going to end very, very, bad for him.

“Don’t suppose that’s his hair talking, isn’t it?” Bunga asked the others.

“Nope.” Applejack shook her head.

“And don’t even think about saying it.” Fuli added already figuring out the joke he was about to say before it could be said. “Just don’t.” Turning her attention to the others. “And I think we should go on over there to help them in case something else goes wrong.”

“Agreed.”

“Yep.”

Both Ono and Applejack stated quick to jump on the opportunity.

“Hang on…” Kyoga told everyone while getting them all to huddle before using her magic to teleport them away from their current location.

Back in Seaequestria, the four Equestrians are all sitting inside their cells inside the kingdom’s dungeon.

Both Twilight and Sunset can look on feeling upset with themselves for what had just happened. The former was more at the fact that when she realized got played every step of the way leading up to it while the latter was due to the fact that they couldn’t be honest with what had happened (though that was more due to the shame she felt upon seeing her old mentor again).

Both Rainbow and Spike were annoyed as heck due to the fact that every limb of their bodies were cuffed like they were dogs that needed muzzling.

Outside the dungeon, two guards walked down the hallways all while Kion disguised as Twilight while wearing a spy suit looks down upon them.

“Since she's captured the Queen of Thieves, there's no living with our majesty, Queen Novo.” The one guard commented to his general.

“Well, it’s not exactly easy living under her command before.” The general replied. While acknowledging what he is saying there truthfully is not much else that can be done in regards to dealing with her.

True to form, even while taking no pleasure of the arrests they had to make, they had no choice but to follow their queen’s orders.

During this exchange, Kion was able to sneak up from behind and steal the general’s keys. The two ponies quickly turned to try to spot whoever was here but saw no one before continuing down the hall. Kion reappeared once they were gone after having used an invisible spell to keep himself from being spotted.

With what he needs now in his possession he moved on over to where the jail cell is before moving to enter the room where he approached the four still sitting there.

“Who?”

“Kion?”

Both Sunset and Twilight spoke highly surprised to see Kion here along with being disguised as the latter.

“I've come to say goodbye.” He firmly replied before moving to unlock the cell doors along with the anti-magic armor on their horns.

“Why are you...?”

“We don't have much time. While the guards chase me, you two get out.”

“But Kion…”

“I can't let you...”

Both Sunset and Twilight tried to reason with him but he casually tossed them the keys so they can free Rainbow and Spike on their own clearly not having any of their explanations right now.

“Forget it. In case you forgot! This is the Lion Guard’s Fiercest you’re talking to! They can't catch me.”

Twilight simply shook her head while amused and impressed with their friend. “She even sounds like me at times and mostly Rainbow Dash.”

“And me too.” Sunset said in agreement.

“Twilight!”

“Sunset!”

“Anytime right now?!”

“Because I’m getting tired of being chained and muzzled like a dog!”

Both Rainbow and Spike called out to them while they were briefly chatting.

“Oh, right.”

“Sorry.”

The two girls quickly moved to do so while making their escape.

A little later, Queen Novo is in her quarters while looking at herself in the mirror, applying was cream and lotion to her face while her best soliders sit at a nearby table.

“What has become of outsiders nowadays I mean really?” She asked as she gave a weary sigh while trying to rid of herself of wrinkles. “To think, that anyone would be smart enough not to cross me in the slightest like they don’t know who I am.”

“Um, your majesty. Many Equestrians don’t know you given that we relocated here on your orders.” The general reminded.

“Therefore, to them we’re just obscured written history. A myth.” The captain added.

“Well regardless…when Princess Celestia gives me my due, I'll put the good word in for you for doing a good job at apprehending her precious prized pupil, the ponies who...” She suddenly sees the Twilight look-alike in her reflection peering from the doorway. “…it can’t be!” She quickly donned her crown before leading her men outside into the hallway. “She was here, I know it.”

Before she do anything else, Kion quickly jumped down on top of her head before bouncing off to do the same to the two guards standing by her side before facing them down.

“The Queen of Thieves!”

“No pony can escape that cell!”

“She isn't a lady I say, she's a demon!”

The two shared before Kion ran off, literally leaving bubbles behind.

“I want her, dead or alive!”

The chase took on through the castle where there were multiple hallways to which Kion was quick to rush down one of them to get the whole troops spread out in a through attempt to fish him out.

“Surround the castle! She's close... I can feel it.” The queen ordered before setting out herself as many guards spread out through the hallways in a quick effort to find who they think is the princess fugitive.

During the chase, the guards took the time to say to each other.

“Which way did he go?”

“I don't see him!”

“Look over that way, hurry!”

Little do they know now, is that Kion is now currently hiding in one of the dimly lit hallways. As two of the guards started to head down that way, Kion moved in the opposite direction just when he was spotted.

“There, the Queen of Thieves, on the roof!” The captain called out while pointing in his direction.

“Get up there, now, now, now!” His queen commanded just when he and the general moved to give Kion a chase.

They closed in on him as they swam down the shadowy corridors up until they reached the dead end of the hallway.

“Found him!” The captain declared…

…just before Kion worked his magic into teleporting away right on the spot.

“Lost him.” The general corrected.

Unbeknownst to them, Kion really now is located on the opposite side of the castle in bright hallways before moving to swim his way around the other guards who all got confused as heck when he moved to repeatedly teleport all over the place just it seemed like they had him along with sprinting away from them just when they got too close to him. It got to the point that all of the guards where all running around in circles throughout the hallways and nearby doors that they had no idea where to look as Kion made his move towards his escape.

“Which way did she go?”

“I heard her go over there...”

“No over there, over there!”

Kion moved to turn the corner having successfully thrown the guards off of his trail. He then swam on and away in the other direction with the castle exit right in his sights. It looked like it was a smooth swimming to safety from here when he gave himself a powerful fiery burst of magic towards the entrance…

POW!

He was suddenly slammed down hard into the ground by a pair of hooves. By her majesty herself.

“Gotcha.” Queen Novo told the young lion barely coming to. “The Queen of Thieves. Your charmed life is over, your majesty!” She moved to try to pin him to the ground but he was quick to dodge the attempt but not without tearing off his mask along with some of the paint washing off due to being underwater. One good look of confusion, shock, and anger was all it took for her to realize what has really happened. “You?”

“Yes.” He said not even denying or trying to lie his way out of this even when grabbed by the collar.

“Well then, I guess I'll have to settle for the Prince of Thieves. We shall see if your father and Celestia wants you in their family now.”

Instantly a swarm of hot bubbles swarmed around them while blurring their views. When they cleared up Queen Novo saw that Kion is now gone and the latter saw that he is now being hoisted to safety by both Twilight and Sunset with both Rainbow and Spike following after them along with the rest of their friends who had just arrived on the scene.

“Twilight? Sunset?”

“No time to talk, we must move!” Twilight simply and swiftly said as they escape the castle and head on upwards towards the surface.

By floating as high as they can go and as fast as they can through the water, the Lion and Pony Guard all were able to emerge to the surface all while gasping for air. Now they were all safe before they all made their way to the nearby shore. And of course everyone was quick to dry themselves after getting out of the water.

“Phew! That was close!” Bunga commented in relief.

“I know.” Fuli agreed while shaking herself dry. “I hope I never have to go through that again.”

“Me too.”

“Me three.”

Both Ono and Rarity said in agreement.

“Did we lose 'em?” Kion asked unsure whether to expect the angry queen resurfacing.

“I don't know, but I did lose my lunch back there...” Rainbow groaned before quickly barfing in a paper bag Pinkie courtesy handed to her. “Why did I eat all of that prison food.”

“Because you were hungry from all of that flying and all you could do was see food.” He chuckled much to Rainbow’s irritation.

“Do you get pleasure at making puns at my expense?”

“I do, 100%” He said with no regrets about saying it.

All joking aside, Twilight was quick to answer Kion’s question. “They won't be able to pick up our trail until daylight. By then, we'll be long gone from Seaequestria. But I’m sure by now they know who we are.”

“Then wouldn’t they know come after us?” Ono brought up.

“They have their pearl. Even though some of us won’t be allowed back there, I’m sure they have no reason to hunt us down.” She answered while shaking her head against the thought.

“Speaking of pearls…” Applejack spoke up wanting to know the whole story now that they are safe. “…mind telling us what that whole attempt to steal their pearl was all about? I mean what you were thinking?!”

Twilight sighed deeply knowing that this was inevitable before moving to explain herself. “The whole pearl debacle was originally an attempt to take it to protect it. But that was before realizing it was all a trap.”

“Set up by who?” Bunga asked.

“Scar and Starlight.” Kion could only look on with contempt towards her as she continues explain herself.

“Really? Them working together? How is that even possible?”

Everyone briefly looked on feeling uneasy by his attitude again before letting the princess continue.

“I know this sounds hard to believe but it’s the truth.”

“It is.” Rainbow backed her up in agreement. “I wouldn’t believe it if I hadn’t see it myself.”

“Seen what?!” Kion demanded still finding what he feels he is hearing is all very baroque.

“We’re getting to that! Gee whiz!” Rainbow remarked before explaining herself. “Anyways, back when Janja and the hyenas attempted to make off with the melons we followed after them to see if they were going to come back or not. They were. But we couldn’t tell you right away because Kenge had already bitten us first.”

“They managed to bite you both?” Ono asked in disbelief.

“Yes. Right after we discovered their little secret.” Twilight answered. “Scar has been communicating with them with his magic there and was able to have Kenge get the jump on us while we were distracted by him.”

“How?” Kyoga asked.

“Starlight was there expecting intruders coming by the volcano in the Outlands and tipped him off only we didn’t see her because she was invisible.”

Kyoga looked on very understanding. “That explains a lot about her.”

“Yes, and him appearing in the fire inside the volcano with whatever magic he could obtain from the other prisoners in Tartarus is how he managed to escape and communicate with the Outsiders in his absence.”

Instantly, Rarity, Ono, and Fluttershy expressed their sudden horror at what they were hearing.

“What?!”

“But…?!”

“How…?!”

“Yeah, those were our first words and reaction upon seeing him too…” Rainbow commented fully understanding of their fear of Scar. “…and like Twilight said he is currently holed up inside the volcano in the Outlands as a fiery spirit.”

“And you expect us to believe that?!” Kion angrily asked them like they are crazy. “What about why you were after the queen’s pearl in the first place?!”

Twilight took the time to still calmly try to explain it to him rationally as possible. “We thought they were going after the pearl as a plot to harness it’s magic to so they can both get what they want. Scar getting his full powers back and Starlight getting the power to take whatever cutie mark she wants from anyone at any time. But only when we got there and saw that neither one of them even attempted to obtain it already along with the queen never even hearing of them even once before up until we came there did we realize that it was all a ploy to trick the queen into thinking we were going to steal it.”

“Are you kidding me?!”

“Kion.” Rainbow implored of him to listen to them. “We didn’t really try to take it after seeing it is still in her custody! By then the pearl alarm suddenly went off thanks to Starlight Glimmer and we were suddenly surrounded by the queen and her guards! What were we supposed to do?! Go all in a fight that would only make us look worse?!”

“Rainbow, I’d hate to break it to you but our Queen of Thieves already did make herself worse, right after we welcomed her back in open paws and hooves!” Kion snapped while motioning an arm in Twilight’s direction.

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me, traitor!”

The others gasped in shock by that hurtful accusation.

“Kion…” Fuli was now looking on like a fuse had now been lit inside of him and it is already reached the very end.

Twilight could only look on hurt and shocked by his words. “But…I would never! I mean did once but never again! Before getting caught I was thinking getting it was the only way to save Equestrian and the Pride Lands only to find out it was all an elaborate plot to burn me to the ground! And if you're worried about the queen, we can straighten that out no problem first thing in the morning.”

“Right and Scar just happens to want me and you to break off our friendship together.” Kion sarcastically and angrily returned. “Well guess what, you just got you wanted!”

“Kion!” Rarity spoke up looking on feeling stung inside herself like when Sweetie Belle declared out of frustration that she would be better off going on with her life without her as a sister.

“I mean it!” He asserted. “At least as an alicorn prince, I won't do what she did, I won't run away.”

“I never ran away from anything in my life!” Twilight defended.

“You ran away from your friends and family!”

“You were there when it happened. What else could I do, what else can you do?”

“The right thing.” He pulls out Twilight’s crown. “You should take this back.” She throws it right in front of her. “Because you don’t belong here!”

Twilight can only looked on shocked and hurt by that statement.

“Kion...”

“I mean it! I have been nothing but good to you when I first met you! I put with your insults and your attitude before you back-stabbed us. And when I give you a second chance you still back-stabbed us and made me look the enemy to queen down there.”

“But…but…that last part’s not true! I have changed for the better!”

“Then why didn’t you tell us from the start of what was really happening before it even happened?! Why?!”

“I…I couldn’t at the time. If everyone knew that Scar had escaped then everyone would have all panicked. And also because I didn’t want to repeat the same mistake I made at the first wedding. I wanted to make sure I had proof before acted on my suspicions.” Kion still scoffed in response.

“Please, Kion? It’s not what you think!” Sunset implored of him while feeling an instant repeat of what she just suffered during her last day at Canterlot High.

“Oh, I think I’m seeing quite clearly all right. And what I understand Sunset Shimmer, is still nothing but the same thieving bully I met from day one. You’re nothing but a conniving and cruel pony who only thinks of herself and is just here just so she can help rob someone of their magic again. And as for you Twilight, you are nothing but one of the worst ponies of all time! You don’t deserve to be the Princess of Friendship! And above all, you two are nothing but failures and a disgrace to Princess Celestia!”

Sunset was left devastated and tearing up because of it while Twilight however was enraged to the point her eyes glowed sickly green with black flames surrounding her and on her mane.

“WHAT?!” She roared loudly as dark clouds formed around her.

Kion gasped along with everyone else who can only look on horrified by the sight with both Fluttershy and Ono covering their eyes upon seeing what is about happen.

Next thing Kion knows is that he finds himself getting roared at along with being scorched with punches, bruises, and kicks powerful enough to send the lion flying and crashing into the nearby mountain behind which cracked and crumbled. Said pile of rubble landed on top of him.

"Oh..." Bunga winced at the sight. "...that's going to stunt his growth!" Both Fuli and Kyoga for once nodded in agreement with the honey badger's comment given of severe it could have been for him if he didn't become a half alicorn.

He survived the heavy blows but had no time to recover when he is suddenly hoisted in the air by the throat and at the enraged alicorn’s mercy before being slammed down back onto the beach followed by a scorching burn to the chest with a pair of dark magic fueled eye beams.

When he opened his eyes he finds himself once more facing off with the lavender alicorn who looks just dead set on killing him.

“If that is what you think of me and Sunset…” She angrily began before calming herself down with the flames accompanying her dying down. “…then there is nothing left to say.” She looks on at Kion still scowling.

Deep down she isn’t angry at him. But more accurately just feeling betrayed herself, with her voice and the look on her face full of hurt. She released her grip as tears streamed down from her eyes before flying off ahead while crying with a broken heart.

Sunset followed after Twilight but not without looking scowling in disappointment at Kion for what he said and did. “Nice.” She sarcastically remarked now feeling bitter at him for his earlier accusations in the past.

“Yeah!” Spike agreed while following after Sunset. “Way to go, Flameo!”

“And here I thought I was the hothead of the gang. But hey congratulations, you just surpassed my mark in that regard!” Rainbow angrily and bitterly added before flying off.

Kion looked on still firm yet very regretful but by then the damage was already done as the rest of his friends decided to follow suit after the others while leaving the prince behind to think about his behavior as Kyoga gathers them all for a group teleport.

Rarity walked right by without a word to say but not without an expression of contempt on her face. Both Beshte and Fluttershy walk by just clearly disappointed even though they didn’t frown in his direction. Ono just flew by without even looking at him while frowning himself. Applejack and Kyoga walked on by while glancing at them rather disgusted with the latter having this to say.

“You know, Kion. As wrong as it was for Twilight to keep us in the dark with what had just happened recently you didn’t help matters by being quick to judge her right on the spot without even hearing her out as always. I mean to think that if you both properly communicated about it none of this would have happened. Point being it’s not just you, it’s your heart. You deserved what you gotten. Come on girls, boys, we’re out of here.”

The group all huddled before Kyoga teleported them all away while Kion turns and heads back to Seaequestria to take responsibility for his actions even knowing that there is a punishment waiting for him upon his return.

Back at the Outlands Volcano, Scar and Starlight were watching the whole scene unfold with great pleasure like they were about to burst into laughter.

“Well done, Starlight!” He complimented. “Once word gets out that Twilight attempted to steal their pearl her reputation is ruined.”

“But you do realize that since she has escaped she is going to be on her way here to stop us.” Starlight reminded.

“Of course she will.” Scar replied still sure and undeterred. “And since she’ll want to see us what better way to talk it over with a little bonfire here in the caldera and she along with anyone who wants to join her is invited to attend.”

“Really?” Starlight asked now getting where he is headed with what he said.

“Yes.”

“Wow.” She honestly didn’t know what to say. To her it was the next level of evil. From ruining her reputation to ruining it more than anyone could ever realize is really up there.

“That isn’t a problem is it?” Scar asked after sensing her being unsure about carrying this part of the plan out.

“A problem?” Starlight quickly shrugged it off like it’s no big deal. “Oh, no. Not at all. So soon she’ll get here and we’ll…dispose of her…right here on the spot?”

“Exactly.” He nodded once more. “And if I didn’t know better I’d think you are not quite seeing eye to eye with me in that regard, are you?” Starlight didn’t have anything to say in response. “And I can see why. You’re just not quite used to taking things to the next level and believe me I get it. I’ve been there before. But there are times when the situation calls for swift action and extreme measures when the chips are down. So sometimes you have to sacrifice in what you believe in order to get what you want. And I’m sure you had to do the same in order to keep the peace in your ideal little village?”

“Yes, I did.” She then glared angrily at him for that particular reminder. “And it was also because of you that I lost that village and everything I came to dream about!”

Scar simply chuckled in response. “Like I said, a much-needed sacrifice for bigger goals in life and it is already clear to me you’ve forgotten what life was like before Twilight came along.”

With music playing up once more, Scar moved to sing and sway her to convince to go through with it while appearing in the very flesh himself.

“I remember a time when peace was at ease

There was plenty of cutie marks in the lair.”

He proceeded to have said cutie mark image thrown right at her face thus angering the unicorn while doing so.

“You’d wander and trip and forcefully strip each and every one

With nary a worry or care.”

He then displays an image of the Princess of Friendship before slashing a piece of it with his claws.

“Then along came this princess with her soft hearted dream

But she ratted you out in the end!

So rally the troops, we were meant to regroup.

And return to our roots once again.”

Starlight looked on ready for a fight against the fiery spirit before giving her hottest blasts of magic right at him to which he effortlessly threw a wall of fire to dissipate them.

“Are you in or out?

Gotta know without a doubt

I'm the one you need for a dirty deed

I'm the best, success is guaranteed.”

Starlight keeps giving her all but Scar keeps shooting down all of her efforts like it’s dealing with another one of his minions on a daily basis. From slapping her way, to throwing her down, tossing her aside, and punching and kicking her away, she was no much for the alicorn / lion hybrid.

“Are you a follower or a traitor?”

Take it in while you still can and not be berated

You want a fearless leader, one that's strong and powerful?

Better vote for me

Are you in or out?”

Scar looks down up the defeated unicorn who can only rub her head in pain while being reminded of why she sided with him along with the events that led up to it.

“I used to be in charge

Yes, horrendously powerful

When the chips were down I was rough!

I knew that I had to do what I thought what was for others

Then Twilight brought upon this sensitive friendship stuff!

And ever since then I’ve strayed from the path of our rigorous righteous.

Now I’m taking a bath in the dust!”

Scar then smiled in satisfaction upon seeing that she is coming to her senses now.

“But I'll reclaim my winnings, my humble beginnings in turmoil and true happiness, we trust!”

“Are you in or out?” Both Scar and Starlight sang as they both saw each other eye-to eye though the former was really eyeing her suspiciously.

“Double crossers or devout?”

Scar sang as if he is warning Starlight against doing so leaving her intimidated and unsure if she is making the right decision over her true loyalties.

“Put your faith in me, pretty soon you'll see I'm the prince of generosity!

Are you foe or friend?

Here's the path I recommend

You wanna ride to fame, I've got the fastest route

What's it gonna be?

Are you in or out?”

He sang while the other Outsiders gathered around her all while preparing their claws and teeth for what’s to come.

“We’ll go robbing in all the right places.”

Janja sang first.

“From Ponyville to Canterlot.”

Both Cheezi and Chungu sang together.

“Yup!”

“Imagine the fear on their faces…”

Reirei then sang.

“When we drop by for cookies and tea...”

Doigoi then sang as he finished her verse to which was met with a kick to the face.

“Come along boys and girls, follow me!”

Scar sang in encouragement as they all marched up to the ledge where Starlight is standing in the middle of it looking on at them wanting her to get in on the action.

“Are you in or out?”

They all sang together as they and Scar traded every verse.

“If you're with me, give a shout.”

“Yah!”

“I'll lead you all the way into the glory days.”

“We'll begin a life of crime that pays.”

Janja sang to Starlight while trying to obtain and nab a bone with some meat on it from Reirei only to be kicked aside by her.

“Are you out or in?”

Make your choice now, sink or swim?”

Reirei then sang while sporting a menacing smile as they appear to have her surrounded.

“You can stick with me, or stay behind and pout.”

Scar then offered.

“What's it gonna be?”

The hyenas and jackals sang together.

“Consider carefully.”

Scar sang before he and every hyena and jackal all sang together the last verse.

“Are you in or out?”

One look on Starlight’s evil smile and content makes it perfectly clear of what her answer is going forward and that’s what Scar wanted to see as the flames surrounded everyone.

Later that night, Twilight, Rainbow, Spike, and Sunset have all made their way to the Outlands Borderline where they see the volcano right in striking distance from where they stand.

“Well, there it is…” Twilight said as she looked on at the brewing smoke from the top of the volcano.

“Yep.” Rainbow agreed. “Nothing but an army of enemies waiting inside for us.”

“Uh-huh.” Sunset agreed though it this point it seemed like she didn’t care if she was going to make it out alive or not, but was still determined to at least prevent a catastrophe from happening before it could even happen.

“Twilight, Sunset...” Spike spoke up looking more concerned with the lack of emotion in their tone compared to the emotional meltdown that took place with Kion earlier. “…are you both okay?”

“Yes, Spike. We’re fine. Thanks for asking.” Twilight replied still focused on the task at hand.

Of course given her quick reply, it was clear to Spike that both ponies are still deeply hurt by what Kion said to them.

“Are you sure. You know that Kion didn’t mean any of what he said. He was just upset over you keeping him in the dark about all of this.”

“Yes Spike, I know.” Twilight abruptly replied. “But it still hurt and up until now I couldn’t tell him what was going on. I mean you were there when it all happened last time.”

“I know.” Spike sighed regretfully upon recalling said memory at the previous rehearsal. “I was just thinking that maybe if you had been a little more open about her suspicions then maybe he would have taken the time to hear you out. And if that had happened then maybe this whole mess wouldn’t have happened. You know what I mean?”

“I know.” Twilight repeated although much more regretfully for snapping at Spike. “And I’m sorry.” She said as she looked at him in the eyes. “I just really want to make sure what I know is true before going through it but it seems while doing so I forgot who I can really trust.”

“Sure is hard, Twilight.” Sunset agreed. “With friends like these there’s no clear answer. You just never know how being honest or not is going to be. Up until I met you it all seemed clear now…at least until the whole Anon-A-Miss drama went down. But still...”

"You showed me the world

When I was all locked up inside,

In a mindset of anger and hatred.

You reached out your hand

And introduced me to the magic of friendship

One look at your smile,

And I could see the light

Shining everywhere

People and ponies like you don't come out of thin air."

She sang encouragingly and in an uplifting manner while recalling said bright memories of them together during her second visit along with the very moment she gave her a second chance in life.

"Oh, Sunset..." Twilight sighed before taking a turn at singing herself solemnly.

"You don't understand

There is so much that you don't see

Just think, if you can,

What the last year or so for me was like for me

Expecting friends to have your back

When needed at most

Mine were never there at the time

So how can you say

I don't come out of thin air?

There's so much I want to prove."

"You've got the chance to learn..."

Sunset sang as she assured.

"If it means I'd have to go..."

Twilight sang before being cut off mid-sentence.

"I'll be right here for you…

Standing by your side."

"Oh you don't have to...

"I think it's worth this risk."

"Maybe you're right

"And won't it be great

To prove your theories are right

And restore your fractured friendship?"

"I've waited so long..."

"It isn't too late."

"To learn the truth."

They both traded before singing together.

"And now at last, we can finally say

Your true friends will be there for you.

And you'll finally learn...

(You) (I) don't come out of thin air."

Instantly Twilight felt better herself while Sunset just felt cheered up herself and not quite feeling motivated into returning back to Canterlot High.

“Well, whatever these copy-cats did you can be sure that this Rainbow Dash has got your back! Both of your backs!” Rainbow assured still confident as always about with what they’re about to do now as they arrived at the border leading into the Outlands to both Sunset and Twilight.

“And we’re here now.” Spike added vowing the same support himself. “To the end.”

Twilight briefly smiled at them before dropping before looking on at what was in front of them the path to where Scar and his current Outlands followers are currently hiding out in.

By traversing through the hidden pathways and trails inside the Outlands they were able to navigate the Outlands without being detected by any of the Outsiders lurking around. It took a little while with the extra stealth used to navigate the place but they were finally able to make it to the entrance towards the caldera where they were quickly to able to make their way inside.

“Shh!” Twilight whispered to the others who all made their way down towards the pathway leading up to the lava pit one by one all looking around their surroundings very, very cautiously.

“Hey, Twilight…” Rainbow whispered as her eyes widen to their surrondings.

“What?”

“…I just had this thought occur, and if it’s true that Scar anticipated us to be caught in the act of attempting to steal the pearl. Think maybe that wasn’t what he also had intended.”

“Other than burning me to the ground?”

“Yeah, but what I mean by that is what if he intended for us to come here, like we think we’re catching onto him but really we’re walking right into a trap? The real one?”

“You mean he intended for us to escape just for us to come here?” Sunset asked as if the pieces are really getting put together now.

“Yeah, like getting imprisoned in underwater jail along with ruining our reputation wasn’t just what he intended. He wanted us to come here so he could burn us to the ground! Literally!”

“Well…” Twilight said as they made their way towards the lava pit right in front of them. “…that would make sense.” She started to realize. “That explains why we didn’t see Starlight try to sabotage our escape otherwise we would have had a harder time escaping.”

“And they must have known that we’ve find out about it sooner or later…” Spike added.

“…and try to take of us on the spot. Right when we least expect it!” Sunset added as she too realized it.

Before Twilight could say another word about it, they heard a familiar evil voice speak to them.

“Oh, you all have no idea how right you all are.” Scar said to him as he emerged from the shadows at the very entrance before teleporting right to them face to face much to their sudden shock. “And how much hot water you’ve really gotten yourselves into this time.” Even when the four have quickly recovered from their shock to adopt fighting stances ready to fight him, he still remained unfazed when facing off against them for the first time since their last fight. “Surprise! Surprise!” He chuckled and grinned like he is relishing in his recent success as he has his prey cornered just when the hyenas and jackals both appeared by his side to cover all corners to prevent their sudden escape.

At the moment, all the four can do is look on with uncertainty as they are surrounded by enemies and fire all around them in the hottest area of the Outlands with who knows what they plan to have in store for them…

Author's Note

Here well...quite a lot has went down as our traveling heroes managed to get themselves in hot water in a certain underwater kingdom (and no, it is not exactly what you would think of what really happened in canon). And even though Kion was able to help break his friends out of underwater jail the damage has already been done. He is absolutely peeved at Twilight deeming her nothing but a disgrace to the throne and the Guard before breaking off his friendship with her after already being fed up her secrets.

I mean to be fair, yes she should been a little more honest, but after what happened last time at the wedding you couldn't blame her for being secretive. It also doesn't help that she has been a victim of Chronic Backstabbing Disorder throughout this series.

But none of the less, Kion sure got a heck of a beating, a No-Holds-Barred Beat-down like beating after pushing one of Twilight's Berserk Buttons and going as far as being the one to Kick the Dog this time around along with severe disappointment in everyone for his behavior this time around. And sure hit hard right where it hurts.

And through it all, it was just what Scar and Starlight wanted from the beginning, as they prepared themselves for their true endgame in this special, something that like I may have said before scorched Earth after setting her up for something unforgivable. And with Twilight along with her three accompanying friends cornered by Scar himself, what will happen next? Will Shining Armor and Princess Cadance finally get married? Will Scar succeed? Will Twilight and her friends escape?

That will come in the fourth and final part to this mid-season finale so until then let's wait and see how this plays out...

Episode 23: Queen of Thieves Part Four

Episode 23:

Queen of Thieves Part Four:

“So…” Twilight broke her brief silence as she looks on at the menacing smirks and grins around her while standing protectively in front her friends. “…this was your plan all along? This whole elaborate plot all set up to burn me to the ground?”

“Correct, Twilight.” Scar confirmed with a pleased smirk before turning to Rainbow Dash. “And the even more impressive part is that your speedy friend was able to figure out sooner than I thought. For a hot-headed pony who always loves to charge into action without thinking things through you’re pretty smart. I’ll give you that.”

“Is that supposed to be a compliment or an insult?!” Rainbow returned still feeling insulted and threatened.

“It’s no insult I can assure you…” Rainbow wasn’t convinced. “…after all what good is insulting someone just before they die. I mean with what I’m about to do to you it’s the least I can do.”

“Oh is that right?” Twilight commented like he is just playing them not even close to being scared. “So is this the part where we’re supposed to be intimidated or are we free to go?”

“You are all free to go…” He casually replied while gesturing to the open pathway to the exit. “…for another five seconds.”

Rainbow quickly bowled over the hyenas and jackals before rushing on over there…

…only to be electrocuted by shocking hot blue magic right at the opening.

Next thing Twilight, Sunset, and Spike know they were suddenly electrocuted from behind courtesy of their sudden attacker appearing right behind them, Starlight Glimmer.

“Yep I know, shocking isn’t it?” Starlight taunted to them as they all started to lose consciousness while summoning Rainbow back on over to the defeated group with her magic at the same time the hyenas and jackals recovered from the attack.

“Ugh!” They all said in pain and also while not finding humor in that pun.

“Yep.” Scar nodded as he looked down upon Twilight face to face as she barely mustered a defiant glare in his direction. “Like I said, five seconds. And now your time in victory lane is up. But don’t worry Twilight…” He said as he placed a paw on her chin who remained long enough to hear what he had to say next before passing out. “…your pain will soon be over. And I forward to every second of it.”

At the same time, the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard (sans Kion) have all arrived at the Outlands border along with Shining Armor and Cadance who can all see Starlight’s magical force field surrounding the volcano.

“Oh, Twily…” Shining was the first to express his worry for his sister now in distress. “…someway somehow I just knew this would happen.”

“Don’t worry, we’re going to save her.” His future wife assured before turning to the others. “And it’s very good thing you all came to us immediately.” She then turned to Kyoga. “Kyoga I need you and Fluttershy to both find Celestia, Luna, and Kion. Tell them we need help in the Outlands!”

“Got it!” Kyoga nodded before she ran off ahead with Fluttershy barely keeping pace with her in flight.

“Wait for me!”

“What do we do?”

“What’s the plan?”

Both Beshte and Fuli asked the princess.

“Well…” Suddenly and instantly, Shining Armor sprinted on ahead at full speed on over to the volcano. “…we simply follow his lead.” She said rather flatly before flying off after him.

“Sounds good to me!” Bunga happily agreed while rushing on after her.

“Shall we?” Ono asked seeing there is no other option now.

“Lets.” Fuli agreed too before rushing on after them with the rest of the Guard following suit with urgent and high hopes to save their friends trapped inside and on time before anything bad can happen to them.

Back in Seaequestria, Kion finds himself floating before the queen himself where he is accompanied by his parents along with the alicorn sisters where he is facing judgement for what he just did in setting Twilight, Sunset, Rainbow, and Spike free. And needless to say, the queen herself is still as furious even with the only indicator is her cold tone of voice. But that’s nothing compared to what his father had to say about it.

“Now don’t get me wrong, Kion, your actions were most disappointing as much as how I’m very disappointed in you.”

“I know.”

“It is tragic King Simba, but your son has obviously followed in the princess of darkness’s hoof steps.” Queen Novo commented sternly yet somewhat sympathetic for the burden his family has to deal with. “Kion is a criminal.”

Kion can only look down in shame as he knows that this is the end of his career along with Twilight’s before stepping forward to try to explain himself why he did what he did.

“Queen Novo, if I may…” The queen motioned for him to speak as if she is seeking that explaination. “…I know nothing excuses what I did just recently in regards to what went down earlier. Why I did what I did well… it was just I couldn’t bear the thought of Twilight spending the rest of her life in prison over something that didn’t even make sense to me. I didn’t even fully understand what was going on and even now I still don’t whether to trust her or not. Whether or not she was my friend or not.” He sighed. “Maybe I would've been better off if I'd never known her.”

It was there Nala moved to console her son. “Kion, you found a friend. One that share a sister-like bond with. A sister who once risked her life to save everyone once before."

“True, true…” The queen commented somewhat understanding but still wasn’t fully moved. “…but that doesn’t explain nor excuse why Twilight attempted to steal my pearl in the first place!”

“Maybe something else was going on that had you thinking that she was even though she wasn’t.” Kion suggested.

“And what proof do you have that says otherwise?” She asked.

“Um…” Kion wasn’t quite sure since he literally doesn’t have anything that says it for sure…at least until he remembered that he does have magic along with something Twilight taught him along the way. “…actually there is!”

He worked his magic and concentrated as he tried to recall what had actually happened when she thought Twilight was going to commit said crime. And with much struggle he was able to work his magic in showing the replay of Twilight conversing with Rainbow, Sunset and Spike just before obtaining the keys and lock picks they need to get it without tripping the alarm.

"I hope we're not too late." Twilight said to herself as they arrived inside the kingdom.

"Yeah, it would be a real shame if Starlight had already obtained the pearl first." Sunset commented in agreement.

"It sure would." Spike also agreed as they looked around to see if the attempted theft had already happened.

When they approached what is the most shiny part of the caste throne room, they witnessed the pearl up high and safely in it's net meaning they have arrived just in time.

"There it is." Rainbow commented upon being the first to spot the pearl in it's full glory.

After showing what was needed to be shown, Kion canceled the flashback scene as his horn glowed and blew steamy bubbles after doing so.

"So that's what happened." Queen Novo said in a tone of realization and remorse. "They weren't trying to steal my pearl. They were trying to help protect it while my back was turned. Well, this changes everything..." She then moved to make her final judgement. "Kion..." She firmly began. "...while I will have a talk with Twilight about this, what you have done, well..." She then said in a soften and warm tone. "...you did it out of friendly love. And you came back to take responsibility for your actions and I'm sure Twilight will do the same once we get to talk once more. Let us put this matter behind us. I think I have kept you all longer than I should have."

"Great thanks." Simba nodded very grateful for her reasonable judgement before the queen moved to guide them on out of the underwater castle. "Hopefully under better circumstances we can meet once again."

"We'll see."

Just when the group had emerged ready to talk new negotiations they heard the soon of Fluttershy screaming since she had lost control of her flying. Thankfully for her, Princess Celestia quickly caught her with her front hooves.

“Twilight, Sunset, Starlight…” She could barely get out between breaths.

“Easy Fluttershy just take a deep breath.” The warm sun monarch advised who quickly did just that once Luna provided her a paper bag to breath through. “Now what about both Twilight and Sunset?”

Once she calmed herself down she properly explained. “It's Starlight Glimmer, the pony Twilight beat. She's not beat, she's back. And she's got Twilight and Sunset held hostage at the volcano in the Outlands.

“Starlight?” Kion asked.

“Yes.”

“And Scar?”

“Yes. Working together. Which means Twilight was right about everything.”

“Again.” Kyoga added. “Not to mention they are both along with Spike, Rainbow Dash, and Sunset are all to be burned to ashes inside the Outlands Volcano!"

“What?!” Celestia spoke up in alarm with what she is hearing. “We have to help them!”

But even still Kion still wasn’t interested while turning his back on them. “That's their problem. They chose to go back to that life...”

“But Kion!” Fluttershy pleaded still upset at his refusal to take action to save her.

“Kion, I know Twilight and Sunset made a lot of bad choices, but that doesn't mean you have to.” Luna was the first to insist against it in a sympathetic manner.

“She is your friend.” Fluttershy further reminded. “How could you do anything else?”

“I'm being as stubborn as they were...” Kion said as he realized that he is still being too hard on her especially after learning the truth. As everyone looks on unsure of what he is going to say and do next, after a few seconds he turned with a ready to help smile. “Let’s do this! Show me the way!”

Everyone including Kyoga and Queen Novo smiled in approval with his noble decision much to Fluttershy’s relief as she rested her back in Celestia’s hooves while being flown on back there.

Elsewhere, inside the caldera of the Outlands Volcano, the many Outsiders have gathered around and spread so they can watch as Scar himself personally executes their prisoners one-by-one. Since Starlight has been tasked with keeping a tight magical hold on the other prisoners until it is time for their execution she literally gets a good side view of the show.

In order to kick things off in their sealed gathering, the first prisoner set to be executed is none other than Twilight Sparkle who is now currently in the clutches and claws of Scar’s paws.

“The prisoner former princess Twilight Sparkle has been found guilty of the crime of high treason. The sentence: death!”

The hyenas and jackals all cheered in excitement all while Spike, Sunset, and Rainbow all protest in vain through Starlight’s magical dome since she added the silencer spell in it. But if anyone can hear them, they would hear them shouting.

“NO! NO! YOU CAN’T DO THIS!”

“TWILIGHT!”

“THIS IS ALL SO VERY WRONG!”

With his moment of triumph just a hundred feet up high, Scar took this time to give his last regards to his foe.

“The time has come, Twilight. You stand upon the brink of the abyss. Yet even now, it is not too late.” He moved to turn Twilight around to force her to look at him. “I can save you from the flames of this world, and the next. Choose me, or the fire.” He said with the last part rather threateningly to remind her that this is her last chance to toe the line with him.

Twilight quickly and correctly saw it as forced servitude while she alone survives and quickly spit in his face in response while giving him a very defiant glare to make it clear to him that she would rather die than give him to his demands.

None of the less, Scar moved to finish up his judgmental speech to the jury before moving to properly carry out the execution while taking the alicorn’s spiteful response in stride.

“The alicorn Twilight has refused to recant. This evil pony has put the soul of every citizen of the Pride Lands and Equestria in mortal jeopardy. So in the name for justice, and for her own salvation! It is my sacred duty to send this unholy demon back where she belongs!” He moved to fly up towards the top of the volcano before looking down at the hot lava boiling over her before moving to drop her into the pit.

At the same time both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance took lead as they made their way up towards the volcano at the same time Scar flew up. From there they were able to witness they have under a minute to come to her rescue. And they need to be able to do it fast with another pony’s magic trying to keep them out.

At the same time with no one Twilight expects to come to her rescue and knowing that she is without magic and without any escape plan she can pull off in an instant, she calmly accepted her fate. All while drowning on the cheers and jeers from the Outsiders eagerly watching to see her plummet into the lava.

Without seeing it, both her brother and sister-in-law appeared right at the entrance. They both shared a nod with the others just when the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard arrived by their side.

With the silent confirmation they know what they have to do in order to save their friends, Princess Cadance flew up while Shining Armor got into a charging position with the others ready to back him up while following his lead.

The moment Scar is about to drop Twilight, he and everyone else heard the sounds of banging on the magic dome which alerted them someone was right outside the volcano. Before anyone could wonder what was going on while Starlight was struggled to maintain her grip on the spell, Shining Armor burst through the force field and sent multiple blasts to knock the hyenas and jackals aside like hitting them with lasers.

At the same time, Princess Cadance appeared from the top of the volcano before swooping in to fire a blast of magic at Scar who swiftly and barely dodged it while maintaining his grip on Twilight.

Before Starlight could try to intervene, Shining Armor quickly blasted her aside forcing her to release her grip on Rainbow, Spike, and Sunset thus freeing them.

Once they were free, they were quick to spring to action. Rainbow charged ahead and once more bowled over the hyenas and jackals attempting to attack the white stallion from behind while Spike breathed fire in their direction along with jumping on top of each and every one of their heads while making his way across. At the same time Applejack and Rarity moved to buck and karate kick each and everyone one of them to help clear a path for their friends to make their escape.

Pinkie moved to play mind games on them appearing and wearing an Arabian-like outfit. “I am here.” She then reappeared behind someone else. “No. I am here.” The distraction was used to allow Rarity to knock them out to the side of the rocky terrain.

Sunset moved to confront Starlight and quickly engaged in a magical battle with her.

“So…” Sunset spoke up first. “…I heard you’re tough.”

“I am. Though if I may, might I suggest you polish up on your magic because from what I hear you’re clearly out of practice.”

“I think I going to kindly dismiss your suggestion, because my magic is quite on par to any unicorn like you.”

“Care to put that to the test?”

“Bring it!”

The two move to have at it at each other where Sunset was quick to go on the offense by firing a few shots at Starlight who swiftly blocked and dodged them. Upon seeing that she is not going to down easily she charged at the unicorn with fiery magic who quick used a magic shield to fend off the attempted attacks before retaliating with rocks and pebbles like machine gun bullets.

Sunset was counter them with her magic before getting ash blown into her face which left her no time to prepare for another blast aimed directed in the gut after being blinded by the attack. She ended tumbling across the ground because of before being hoisted up in the air by the neck through her telekinesis.

Feeling she has this fight under control she hoisted Sunset on over to the lava pit so she can plop to her fiery demise by giving her a good toss on over there. But Sunset wasn’t about to have it so she quickly teleported in the nick of time and appeared right behind her and kicked her attempted murder square in the back. She then fired another beam of magic right at her to force her back across the rocky area for good measure as she marches upon her opponent to send the message that she isn’t an easy pony to pick on even with little to no practice on magic.

Starlight was left shocked and enraged but still full of determination to try to take her down as she roared and charge another attack towards her after shaking it off where the two continue to duke it without with a even dead lock battle of magic.

Sunset staggered briefly when Starlight finally managed to get another hit on Sunset before she quickly moved to dodge several more attacks from the latter. She then moved to attack her with fiery magic from both her horn and one of her back hooves as she attempted to send a kick at Starlight. They both missed as Starlight dodged them, spun around, before continuing back on the offense with the multiple sharp rocks and volcanic ash around them.

Sunset continued powering through to block off the attempted attacks along with shooting off her fiery magic before conjuring up a magic shield to which she used to block off the volcanic ash. Once she dispelled of the shield she moved to leap up out of the shield's protection and quickly sent a powerful blast of magic along with a strong and mighty kick that connected. This attack caused Starlight to tumble backwards and slam into the nearby walls of the volcano.

Seeing her chance, Sunset moved to finish this off as she made her charge. She moved to dodge the weakened blast of magic sent at her before locking her legs around Starlight's neck and flipped her over, sending her tumbling across the ground before rolling to a stop. To finish things off Sunset was quick to fire one of her hottest (but not fatal) blasts of magic as she leapt into the air.

By then Starlight was able to awaken and see what was about to happen before quickly and desperately tried to act to prevent it. Sunset moved to connect at the same time Starlight mustered up all of her energy into shooting one of her strongest beams of magic right at her gut. The two blows land at the same time as both ponies were tossed away from each other by the combination of attacks, landing near opposite sides of the caldera in clouds of dust and yells of pain. But none of the less, Sunset managed to stand back up on her own two hooves victoriously while Starlight was left too beaten and weakened to continue thus ensuring that the former has truly won this duel by the time the former moved to confront her again.

At the same time Cadance is working her magic to take on Scar who is currently holding her future sister in law captive, and so far it is a pretty close match given that neither one has managed to land a hit on one another. Ever since Cadance made her appearance known to Scar they have been fighting, the latter has still maintained his grip on Twilight to prevent her from escaping and using her magic to help out.

Seeing at this rate there won’t be a clear winner until someone makes a mistake sees she needs to be able to tip the balance somehow against this dangerous enemy and save Twilight in one move.

“Shining!” She called out to him hoping he can help her find an angle along with a distraction.

“On it honey!” Shining quickly rushed on over in her defense and charged into the fight by leaping off the edge and throwing himself towards Scar.

Once he was close enough to land a shot, he quickly delivered a literal head-butt to the lion / alicorn hybrid which was enough to disorient him and drop his control over Twilight allowing her to be free. But given the sudden impact of the attack her brother implanted on Scar had no control to stop herself from falling into the lava below her.

Luckily for her, Shining was quick to use his magic (just barely due to still recovering from the impact of the head butt he used) to grab ahold of his little sister just mere inches before she could hit the lava face-first to which Cadance was quick to swoop in and hoist her up and away from the boiling pit just inches away from touching it. Before passing out, Shining quickly worked his magic into freezing the lava pit (for a good ten seconds) to protect his bride from touching it.

Scar who had just recovered from the impact (thanks to having used the time to apply healing magic to his brain during this time, only had enough to time to witness both Twilight and Cadence charging at him. With no time to be able to defend himself from the hot beam of magic along with a punch to the face from the former with the latter giving an equally powerful beam and kick to the gut.

From there the two quickly overwhelmed the lion / alicorn hybrid with a short barrage of punches and magical blows that left him no time to be able to defend himself. Before long he then found himself in for the biggest knockout blow to finish off the fight to which Shining Armor had recovered from the head trauma so he can chime in just when the alicorns have reversed away from him on the opposite side of the caldera so they can regroup with him.

“Ready?” Twilight asked the others who nodded before they all charged together. “On the count three going down. Three…” She started off.

“Two.” Cadance said next.

“One. Blast off!” Shining finished before they all delivered one heck of a magical punch that created a massive explosion that sent Scar flying far away from the Outlands along knocking out every Outsider when they slammed into the nearby walls behind them.

“Poa!” Beshte was the first to remark in amazement.

“I knew we could take them!” Bunga proudly stated just when the siblings and in-law quickly led the way on towards the exit.

“Let’s go!” Twilight ordered of everyone as they all wasted no time in getting the heck out of there before things could get worse for them.

For good measure, they quickly moved towards the nearby downhill lava stream so they can make a quick exit out of the Outlands. For a handful of ponies without wings (with the sole expect of Bunga and Spike) it was a first time for them. Normally they would be unsure and uncomfortable with the idea of sliding down the slope when it involves avoiding touching boiling hot lava. But with not enough magic at their disposal at their hooves given that it was used to dispel of Scar and his army, they had to take the fastest option that gets them out of here before Scar even has a chance to retaliate.

At the same time, Kion and the others are all rushing off ahead with both Fluttershy and Kyoga guiding Kion towards the Outlands as they make their way towards the portal at top wing speed. They were all panting hard and really exerting themselves as they are trying to keep up this speed but they were all determined to ensure that no harm comes between Twilight and the others with who knows what Scar could be doing to them now.

“I hope we’re not too late!” Kion wished.

“Me too!” Fluttershy expressed in agreement.

By performing the same maneuvers needed to speed across the downhill lava stream on the volcano (to which Rainbow took the time to actually enjoy it) they were all able to make quick time in getting through the Outlands much like Twilight, Bunga, and Spike did in the past. Others who could fly chose to stand by so they can ensure they don’t make the wrong move which is very understandable given the circumstances at hoof and paw.

“Aw, yeah!” Rainbow cheered as they made their way down the volcano. “Took long enough to finally be able to do this!”

“You can say that again!” Pinkie agreed as she is riding down like she is on a roller-coaster and a kiddie ride. “Whee!”

“Yep. Told ya you would have fun with it!” Bunga proudly remarked while steering like it was a casual trip to the ski resort for him.

“Rainbow Dash! Pinkie! Bunga! Focus!” Twilight quickly scolded to remind them the urgently of their current situation.

“Oh right!”

“No more joking around!”

“Yep!” To make her point clear she adopted her serious game face like she did before taking on and defeating Discord.

“Get ready!” Twilight called out to the riders as they approached the sharp turn that serves as the exit towards the rocky platforms leading up to the Pride Lands borders. “Our exit’s coming up!”

“You got only one shot at this!” Spike further added as he got ready to jump. “So make it count!”

“Got it!” Sunset nodded as not another word was said as they approached the last part of the stream leading up to the sharp turn up ahead the straightway.

Upon approaching it, they all reached accordingly and they all jumped at the same time the flyers flying beside them flew down to catch their ponies. Cadance for Shining Armor. Rainbow for Applejack. Ono for Bunga. Kyoga for Fuli. And Twilight for Sunset while all of the flyers muster their extra energy into levitating Beshte along for the ride.

“Pinkie! Now!” Twilight called out to her.

“Yes sir, ma’am, sir.” She saluted before quickly tossing down trampolines on each and every one of the platforms so they that everyone can bounce their way across, Beshte included.

The trampolines used were definitely so strong and powerful that they were able to send each and every pony and Pride Lander across each and every rock platform with ease.

“Whee! Hop! Hop! Skip! Jump!”

“Hop! Hop! Skip! Jump!”

Both Pinkie and Bunga cheerfully stated as they treated it like hop scotch while the others focused and treated it like they were performing one of those obstacle courses they’re used to practicing on back in Ponyville.

“Good thing Kion had use training like this, huh Fuli?” Beshte commented.

“Yep. And we’re just a few more leaps there!”

And in very little time, each and every one made it across to the Pride Lands safely as they all leapt across the final platform and right by Flat Ridge Rock where the border lies.

“Okay, great! That’s everyone.” Twilight was now satisfied as she made helped ensure Sunset was now out of the Outlands safely before flying out on of there herself with a super-powered super speedy sprint. “We should be…OOF!”

Suddenly she finds herself flying backwards into the first pillar standing between her and the Pride Lands by a quick swift magical attack accompanied by an arm from certain reddish-orange fur colored fellow…

…who is now appearing up in the skies before moving to confront her while quickly drawing up a magical barrier to prevent the others from interfering as he prepared to kill Twilight himself.

Upon seeing him so suddenly had Twilight quickly conjuring up a magical dome to protect herself as she made her way back up top of the platform she was slammed into.

“Well Twilight, I’m impressed.” He complimented with a smirk. “No team of siblings has ever gotten the better of me like that. And to think it is almost a shame to have to kill off someone so talented. Almost…”

With nothing else to say, he dropped the friendly pretenses with a frown and charged right at her who quickly sent the magical waves from her force field right back at him causing him to fly backwards into the magical barrier he himself created. He then moved forward and charged ahead all while the others can only watch on with great horror and anxiety greatly and desperately hoping that Twilight pulls through once more.

“Oh, no! Not again!” Shining cringed once more with his wife’s comfort once more as they once more can only watch on helplessly upon seeing his sister has to fight off this dangerous enemy once more alone.

“Twilight!” Both Rainbow and Sunset cried out in her direction upon seeing the danger she is still in.

Twilight kept her eyes focused as she focused her magic on resisting Scar’s attempts to break through her barrier as he fired off shot after shot at her. But no matter what Twilight refused to crack under the pressure she was determined to see to it that Scar runs out of firepower in his efforts to break through her dome.

Unfortunately for her, Scar’s current firepower is still powerful enough to give her a run for her money as he gradually managed to wear down the strength of her dome with a relentless barrage of firepower that would incinerate someone into being scorched earth had that been an ordinary pony he was dealing with. In just under a minute she found herself sweating from the intense heat she was now feeling and had her realizing she needed to prepare to fight when the dome breaks.

He continued firing multiple blasts of fire before firing off one long continuous blast that had her sweating. One look on Scar’s evil grin could tell that he has done enough work to burn off the outer barrier leaving with just one more blast that’ll allow him to break through it.

Everyone watches on with worry and anxiety as Scar chalks up another fire bomb as he prepares to unleash that attack on Twilight. With a good charge and leap upwards he unleashed it just when he appeared right in front of the dome and managed to crack it. And just when he was relishing in unleashing this brutal attack…

POW!

“Oh!” Scar suddenly found himself flung backwards and slamming into the barrier he himself created face-first, much to the others amusement.

“Ha, ha, ha, ha!” Rainbow laughed her heart out while rolling onto her back mid-flight. “Look at his stupid face!”

“I know!” Bunga agreed finding it equally amusing even though his face is more of a pained and serious look rather than a comedic one. “It’s so appealing!” Everyone all turned to face him like everything just stopped. “Wait. That came out way lamer than I expected.”

“Yep.” Both Applejack and Fuli commented in unison agreement as they all resumed watching the duel that was taking place in front of them.

After the attack, Scar ended up slumming down onto the ground below the rocky platforms while Twilight hovers over him while being cautious and careful of approaching him and making sure he is out and cold. Twilight being a smart and cautious pony didn’t dare to fly in close nor tried to make a run for the barrier feeling that’s just exactly what Scar would want her to do.

So instead, she teleported away from the scene much to Scar’s shock when he immediately opened his eyes, flew up, and looked around for her. To him, she had to be somewhere around the Outlands as his force field would have detected her trying to cross the borders whether it’s towards or away from the Pride Lands.

“But where…” He thought to himself as he looked around his surroundings while flying up and searching the whole perimeter…

ZAP!

Came Twilight’s horn as Scar found himself knocked aside and tumbling across the rocky platforms after being taken by surprise for once in this fight. And before he realized it, he found himself relentlessly attacked from all of his blind spots left and right before he can even have a chance to recover and attack back up until he found himself facing backwards from the borders leading into the Pride Lands.

After finding that this one-sided beat-down has gone on long enough, he growled before planting his on one of the platforms while sporting a serious face with his magic ready and waiting for the right moment. And instantly he sensed his next attack right on his left shoulder before turning around with a powerful backhand to smack Twilight aside and into the barrier.

Before anything else, Scar quickly seized her and recaptured her before she could try to retaliate much to everyone else’s horror as evidenced by their gasps of shock.

“Don’t think I’m not through with you yet. Up we go!” He stated before flying back up into the sky before setting his sights on the large lava stream right near the Outlands Volcano once more.

It was there that Kion and the others had arrived at the borderline to witness what was happening and why the others aren’t able to come to her rescue. One look was all it took for them to figure out what to do.

“Luna with me!” The white alicorn quickly instructed.

“Got it, sister!” Luna nodded upon getting the message before flying off ahead alongside her while Kion ran off ahead going as fast as he can at the same time Scar eyes a very good body of lava for her to plop in for her demise.

By working together Celestia and Luna were able to create an opening big enough through Scar’s force field so both Kion and Sunset could be the first to charge inside the Outlands so they can rush over to save their friend.

Upon sensing and seeing what was happening, Scar saw it was time to take quick and direct action before moving to hurl on over there with the greatest and fiercest strength he can muster in a split second before quickly pursing her to personally ensure that she hits the lava.

Thinking quick, Twilight was able to slow her descend and use the lava above her to distance herself from Scar but just barely as she is finding it a struggle given she is now acting under pressure to save her own life here.

Upon entering the Outlands, Kion quickly scooped up Sunset before taking flight in order to play catch-up to both Twilight and Scar with the former still at the latter’s mercy and they were sure racing as fast as they can in order to come to the rescue.

Luckily for them, Twilight’s self-defense bought them the time they needed to mount an intervention on her behalf. By launching Sunset off of his back, the fiery unicorn was able to tackle Scar from behind just when he was about to trip Twilight up so she would fall into the lava.

At the same time before Twilight could find herself touching the lava after being tailed too long and too close for comfort, Kion swooped in and managed to freeze the lava briefly before hoisting Twilight up and away from the lava that had just managed to reemerge much to the latter’s grateful relief.

Upon being lifted up and away from the lava, Twilight’s focus was turned back to Scar who had just managed to subdue Sunset by being slammed down into the ground in a brief magical skirmish despite the latter managing to put up a few punches and blasts from her horn.

“It’s time we put an end to this!” He furiously stated before pinning the unicorn with one of his claws before readying his teeth ready to go for the bite to the neck.

“NO!” Twilight exclaimed before sending another powerful blast to knock him aside into the nearby rocks to which has the lion / alicorn hybrid grunting in pain upon hitting his ribs from the impact. It didn’t injure him but left him with a noticeable bruise there.

And before anything else, another powerful blast struck him right in the chest thus leaving a huge scorch mark on his chest followed by another equally brutal attack to the face before hitting his back on the rocks again much to the others surprise since those attacks didn’t come from any of them.

Said attack came from both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna themselves who appeared before Scar with their righteous fury with her horn glowing and ready to capture and finish him off for what had attempted to do today.

“On the contrary Scar…” Luna said with an angry and stern expression. “…it is time that you put an end to this by surrendering now while you still can!”

“And if I were you…I would surrender before you make this worse for yourself!” Celestia coldly added ready to unleash her wrath on him that no other villain has received before.

Scar heavily breathed as he looked on as he is surrounded by the other hybrid, two alicorns, and unicorn along with the rest of her friends and family standing at the Outlands border ready to move in and corner him on the spot. It was there he realized he has lost this battle, but was still determined to keep the game going on while he still can.

“Very well Celestia…” He calmly yet furiously replied while sparking up some magic with his paws like lighting up some burning rocks. “…but be warned Twilight Sparkle, this is not over yet! Same goes to you, Kion!”

Before anyone could react he used the sparked rocks to create a massive cloud of smoke along with leaving a huge rubble and crack into the ground so he can make his escape. When the smoke cleared after the four quickly used their magic to dispel of it before any harmful effects could happen to them, he was gone, along with finding themselves to a rumbling volcano that is about to erupt in just a few seconds.

“Hang on!” The ponies and half alicorn all huddled together so the ponies with magic could create a group teleport out of the Outlands and back to the border while just inside the Pride Lands where everyone else was waiting for them just when the volcano erupted once more which was only big enough to coat the volcano with large amounts of overflowing lava to flow down it's downhill slopes.

“Poa!”

“That was amazing!”

“Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“So regal, darling!”

“So fast!”

“So super speedy fast to the finish!”

“Yep.”

“You were so brave!”

“Great rescue, Kion, Sunset!”

Beshte, Kyoga, Ono, Rarity, Rainbow, Fuli, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Ono all complimented in that order.

“Twilight!” Shining was the first to quickly hug her out of relief that she made it out of the encounter alive. “Oh I’m so glad you’re safe!”

“Me too.” Cadance happily expressed in relief as she joined in on the hug before turning her attention to the purple pony’s saviors. “And I have you all to thank for that.”

“Well what were we supposed to do…” Sunset asked while looking at Twilight in a joking manner. “…just leave you be to become scorched earth. Not on our watch.”

“I wouldn’t expect it from you.” Twilight and Sunset shared a friendly giggle together along with a friendly hug.

Kion looked on proudly at the sight before moving to say a few words himself. “Neither would I.” He agreed. “If I hadn’t come when I did then that would have been a different story.” He then looked on regretfully with matching lowered ears and eyes before moving to apologize for what went down the last time they saw each other. “And for that I’m sorry I almost put you in that position, along with doubting you, and provoking you into attacking me.”

“You did what to Kion?!” Simba asked highly shocked and surprised to hear that last part to which Twilight innocently shrugged and slight embarrassment though she knows she is going to get a talk for that later on when it is more convenient.

Twilight turning her attention back to Kion moved to have her say in the matter. “It’s okay, Kion. Even with all things considered I didn’t help my own case by not telling you of what was really going on before all of this had happened along with losing my temper back there. And for that I’m sorry too.”

“Well, at least he came through and managed to be there for you when you needed it the most.” Sunset assured both apologetic friends feeling very proud of them for what went down in the Outlands before turning to her alicorn friend.

“And that was a very brave thing you did there, son.” Simba also complimented to Kion equally proud of him.

“Thanks, Dad. And so you were, Sunset. I mean it’s not everyday anyone is willing to risk a confrontation with Scar in order to save their friends.”

“Eh…” She shrugged. “…it was the least I could do.” She then felt a certain shadow looming over her head. Without even looking she knows who’s it belong to. With another deep sigh she moved to say what needs to be said. “Princess Celestia, I know the last time we saw each other, I was your snide little pupil who betrayed and abandoned you.” Twilight cringed at some of her choice of words but none of the less allowed her to speak as she has been there before. “But now I come before you a changed pony, humbly asking for forgiveness, guidance, and knowledge.” She then quickly and nervously added. “Or I can just go, and you never have to see me again.”

Much to her heartfelt surprise and delight, Celestia accepted her apology and kindly reciprocated it with her warm hug from her wings.

“I've missed you, Sunset Shimmer.”

“I... I'm so sorry.” Sunset tearfully apologized while returning the hug herself much to everyone heartfelt delight at seeing the reunion as everyone all shared a group hug together to assure the unicorn she’s welcome here and that they are all family.

Once they broke apart from the hug, everything fractured friendship was all smoothed over with Kion’s bond with both Twilight and Sunset stronger than ever.

“Let's go home.” Shining Armor told everyone. “We have some unfinished business.” Everyone all proceeded to make their way away from the Outlands so they can take of something that has been postponed long enough.

Later that week once everyone was fully recovered from the whole ordeal and all past tensions inside and outside of Equestria have been settled, came the wedding that finally happened, the wedding between Shining Armor and Cadance that finally happened without anymore interruptions and distractions. And for everyone gathered it was all worth the wait. Twilight's the best mare, Kion's the best lion, the Mane Six along with Fuli are the bridesmaids, including Sunset who is more than happy to extend her stay here in Equestria so she can further reconnect with Princess Celestia along with staying away from her previous heartbreak in Canterlot High.

“Mares and gentlecolts,” Princess Celestia announced to everyone like before. “We are gathered here today to celebrate the union of the real Princess Cadance and Shining Armor. The strength of their commitment is clear. The power of their love, undeniable. May we have the rings please?” Spike presented the wedding rings, which were placed on the bride and groom’s horns. “I now pronounce you mare and colt!” With that, the two it was all finally official and the entire crowd all cheered for the newly wed and happy couple. Both Shining and Cadance stood on the tower balcony and waved to the crowd below while the Lion and Pony Guard watched on equally happy for them.

“This is your victory as much as theirs,” Princess Celestia said to Twilight. “You persisted in the face of doubt, and your actions led to your being able to not only bring the real Princess Cadance back to us once before, but also exposed the truth of danger lurking around in the Outlands. Learning to trust your instincts is a valuable lesson to learn.”

“Couldn’t have said it better.” Twilight commented in agreement as she turned to Kion. “And I think the same can be said to you Kion, if it weren’t for you, I’d probably not be here right now. You saved me.”

“How could I do anything else?” Kion asked like it was a trick comment. “You’re my best friend. In fact my B.S.B.F.F!” Hearing those words really touched Twilight to the core as they shared a hug together. “And I’m sorry was quick to judge against you without fully understanding what was really going on.”

“It’s okay.” Twilight assured it’s all water on the bridge. “You came through when it really mattered. And I’m sorry too for not upholding my promise to tell you of suspicions when they started occurring. Like I said before part of me was trying to avoid the heartbreak I suffered that led to this whole mess to begin with but much like last time it caused more problems than it was worth.”

“Don’t blame yourself for that.” Simba consoled. “If I were in your paws I would have felt and reacted the same way you did.”

"And with all things considered I don't blame you for not telling everyone right away without getting all of your facts right, Twilight. Nobody does." Everyone all smiled and nodded in agreement to assure it's all water under the bridge now. "I probably would have done the same thing too." That earned a chuckle among everyone.

“Yeah…” Twilight agreed feeling better already. “…you do know we’ll have to tell the others of our discovery right?” She then reminded while eyeing the crowd inside the wedding hall.

“Of course.” He looked on to the crowd all around them. “But we can tell them after this is all over. One secret that can be kept for one more day.”

"As long as you don't draw it out." Sunset nodded in agreement and also advised.

Celestia also nodded in agreement. “Indeed.” She said before turning to whisper in Rainbow Dash’s ear. “Rainbow Dash, that’s your cue.”

Upon being told that, Rainbow quickly flew right out of her bridesmaid gown, flew high in the air above the castle, and set off her long-awaited Sonic Rainboom which spread across the entire sky above Canterlot.

“Best… Wedding… EVER!” Dash cheered as she flew through the air in trumiph. And it really was. That night they had fun at the reception party where Twilight sang the song she originally planned for the wedding once handed the microphone as everyone danced to the music.

“Love is in bloom

A beautiful bride, a handsome groom,

Two hearts becoming one

A bond that cannot be undone because…”

Twilight moved to toss Kion another microphone to encourage him to singalong. So with her nod of approval Kion moved to sing the next part.

“Love is in bloom

A beautiful bride, a handsome groom

I said love is in bloom

You're starting a life and making room

For us (For us, For us....)”

After the reception, both the bride and groom made their way to the carriage where they set out for their equally long-awaited honeymoon together.

Before setting out, Shining Armor turned back for this parting exchange with both his sister and the lion he sees as a brother too. “Twilight! None of this would've been possible without you, little sis. Same goes for you too, Kion!”

“Aw, thanks!”

“Love ya, Twily.” Shining said while embracing her in a hug together.

“Love you too, B.B.B.F.F.” Twilight kindly returned.

“Ready to go?” Shining asked his newly wedded wife.

“Yes.” Then she remembered something. “Oh! Almost forgot.” She quickly pulled out the bouquet of flowers and tossed to one person she believes is deserving of it...

Sunset Shimmer.

"Really?" Cadance nodded in response as it is her way of saying thanks for being one of Kion's best friends and for her role in saving Twilight back in the Outlands. "Wow! Thanks!"

Both Kion and Twilight along with the rest of the crowd waved on as they watch the chariot take off with the newly wedded couple.

“Love is in bloom

A beautiful bride, a handsome groom

I said love is in bloom.”

“You're starting a life and making room

For us, (For us... For us... Aah...)”

“Now this was a great wedding.” Bunga was the first comment feeling pleased with how it all went down.

“You said it, Big B.” Beshte agreed.

“If you thought that was impressive, just wait until you see what I have planned for the bachelor party!” Spike commented as he laughed while everyone else joined in on the group huddle while the fireworks went off to in the skies.

In the end, everyone was happy…

…well, all but one.

“Well…” He commented in frustration with all that had went down in his new Outlands lair. “…it seems the war has just begun, again.”

Just then he heard and saw panicked screaming from Pinkie who is looking on the magical observation like she is trapped inside.

“Wait a minute. WE'RE NOT GETTING OUTTA HERE, MAN! WE'RE NOT GETTING OUTTA HERE! DON'T YOU UNDERSTAND IT, MAN?! THIS IS IT, GAME'S OVER, MAN!

Scar glared at her who smiled with embarrassment written on her cheeks back at him along with an innocent shrug and squee before disappearing and canceling the visual.

“Dang pony.” He muttered under his breath rather annoyed by her antics as always.

But none of the less, he still has more plans and ideas to keep stirring up conflict even when the truth of his whereabouts and contact with the Outsiders is perfectly clear as he still smirked to himself in optimism going forward.

Author's Note

Here we have what I'm sure has been much anticipated in this closing part of this mid-season finale, the confrontation between the Lion and Pony Guard against Scar along with the jackals and hyenas by his side inside the Outlands Volcano and it is definitely something all right.

Everyone all got in on the action and got their chance to shine while Scar himself shows that for a someone who's still recovering from his magic drain half a season ago, is still a threatening and effective villain to the point it takes ganging up on him in order for everyone to escape his grasp with their lives. In fact, Twilight, Rainbow, Sunset, and Spike would probably not be here right now had the rest of her friends and family showed up when they did. So in a way, this time around everyone has made up for what happened at the previous wedding and did what should have done back yet.

And at last after some apologies, lessons learned, and heartfelt reunions, everyone all headed back to Canterlot for some unfinished business. And yes, this is the moment Shining Armor and Princess Cadance finally get married after two years and two and a half seasons of waiting. And it is all well worth the wait as like in canon it is glorious.

And that wraps up things for this mid-season finale with still more stories to tell for this season once we get resume things with the town's fashionista making the next steps on expanding her business along with a new manager who doesn't see eye to eye with her vision so that should be something to look forward when we get back so stay tuned...

Also, feel free on giving suggestions on what episodes aside from "Hearthbreakers." that Sunset Shimmer would make a good addition to and if there is anything I missed or didn't do, same thing (kindly and reasonably, please)

Episode 24: Canterlot Boutique

Episode 24:

Canterlot Boutique

At the Carousel Boutique, Rarity was busy with her work like always to match the store’s usually busy day. She levitated a few swatches from the shelf to start working on a new outfit she had planned until her eyes darted upwards at the clock. Immediately, she smiled and dropped the swatches and dashed towards the window with a wide smile on her face eagerly anticipating someone very important coming her way.

However her smile dropped when she saw that nopony was there. It was already nine o’clock and her expected guest still isn’t here. She moved to get back to work while sighing in disappointment. But seconds later she gasped excitedly when she heard the bell ringing again.

"Was that the Pony Post?!" She asked, turning her head in the sound’s direction to see… just her cat playing with one of her mouse toys, with a ringing bell collar. Rarity groaned in disappointment, "Oh, it's just you, Opal." The cat, Opalescence, meowed in annoyance as she took her toy into her mouth and walked to the corner to continue playing.

"Ohhh… Every other day he's here like clockwork! Not today! What could possibly be holding him up?!"

To her unexpected surprise, a certain energetic pink pony appeared on the window, her face plastered on it with her signature warm and big-eyed happy smile.

"Strawberry cinnamon cilantro salutations!" She greeted before zipping out of view.

"What?"

"What indeed."

Rarity was startled when both the pink pony along with the happy easy-going honey badger and task oriented white egret all appeared before her with the former carrying a tray of odd-looking baked goods.

"I bet you're wondering what warrants such a welcome!" Pinkie asked before explaining. "Well, that welcome is warranted by a pony who just taught her best pal Bunga to whisk up a warm batch of strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcakes!"

“Took all of my strength to keep myself from eating this batch from Sugarcube Corner to here!” Bunga proudly remarked.

“After eating two batches of those treats!” Ono groaned in agony along with his growling gut from the one cupcake he was force fed along the way.

“But I still did it! After all third time’s the charm!” He proudly stood by his claim before helping himself to one. “Mmm! Yum!” He commented as the taste of the treat sinks into his mouth and teeth all while oblivious to Rarity cringing when Pinkie Pie tossed one of the cupcakes into her mouth into a loud chomp.

"That strangely sickening flavor combination doesn't sound as bad as it tastes." Pinkie commented all with her lowered ears, irises widening and cheeks bloating, still holding the cupcake in her mouth. Despite her best efforts it was pretty clear that this is not quite her best cupcake flavor combo to date, especially when Pinkie stuck out her tongue, which is now covered in green flakes. "And yet, I can't stop eating them!" She said with a wide smile.

"So we came here to offer you some!" Bunga offered his friend a cupcake, but Rarity wasn’t interested in the stomach ache it promises should she try it.

“Thanks Bunga. But I’m going to pass, okay. I’m trying to keep a full stomach up for a letter I’m expecting right about now." She politely declined.

"Oh, yeah! That reminds me! I have this letter for you, Rarity!" Bunga moved to pull out the envelope he had tucked inside his fur. "The post pony was going to deliver it, but after a strawberry cinnamon cilantro cupcake, he was feeling kinda queasy. And since we were heading over anyway, I figured I could do it for him! Here you go!"

She levitated the envelope with her magic and then sprayed with a freshener before moving to rip it open so she can pull out and read the letter inside. Once the paper was unfolded she spoke to herself what was written on it while both Bunga and Pinkie continued eating the cupcakes and Ono quickly moved to snatch a bottled soda Bunga brought with him to get his queasy stomach to settle down. Once Rarity was done reading she let out an excitable gasp/shriek and giggled with glee like a kid in a candy store and a happy schoolgirl.

"What's it say?" Pinkie asked with her mouth full.

"I got it!"

Pinkie Pie and Bunga both cheered happily at the news both doing somersault while celebrating.

"Woo-hoo! Got what?"

“Yeah what she said because we have no idea what you’re talking about.”

"She got the desired location for the new boutique shop she wants to open in Cantelot.” Ono explained with his stomach now feeling better after ingesting that soda. “Phew! That’s better!”

”Oh, I have been holding out for the perfect location, and it finally became available!” Rarity happily expressed. “So now I can fulfill my dream of opening a boutique in Canterlot!"

“Oh yeah! Congratulations!” Bunga moved to shake the unicorn’s hoof while Pinkie Pie hoped around the shop.

"Whoo! I'm so excited, I think I'm gonna lose my cupcakes!" she stopped in midair, feeling queasy already, and zipped away to vomit in the bathroom, leaving Rarity to giggle and gallop in place.

Ono can only shake his head in amusement for the fact it’s not him throwing up in there for once. “I think you just did.” He called after her before turning his attention back to the happy unicorn who has waited every day since her big career boost from winning the Manehattan Fashion Show for this dream to come.

And now with all of that hard work and patient waiting finally paying off her dreams were finally coming true.

Sometime later, the Lion and Pony Guard with Spike accompanying them boarded their train and made their way on over when they reached the Canterlot train station.

“Wow! A new store right here in Canterlot!” Beshte was the first to express his happiness upon exiting the train. “I can’t believe today is day it’s actually happening!”

“Well she’s definitely earned...“ Fuli commented equally happy for Rarity. “…after all Rarity is such a savvy business pony.”

“I know!” Ono agreed. “Using the huge bonus she earned making the costumes for Sapphire Shores' Equestria-wide tour to open this second boutique was pure genius!"

“A pretty good investment if you ask me.” Kion commented already looking forward to seeing the new place himself.

Already in just a minute they had managed to arrive at the boutique and it was everything Rarity had dreamed of wanting and having.The boutique itself was much bigger than the one in Ponyville. The exterior was painted in light shades of violet, purple and magenta, along with crystal clear windows adorned with golden edges and a heart shaped window at the center of the front door.

Inside is where it gets even more of an eyesight that Ono’s eyes would sparkle upon seeing. It was a two stories tall with a spiral staircase leading up towards the upper ring of the shop, with clothes on every shelf in the store. There is silk hanging from the walls and several balloons tied up on the railings all fitting and set up for the store’s grand opening. There is also a table nearby where there are treats and snacks for the costumers and friends. In addition there was one large room which will serve as Rarity's personal work space.

Upon getting inside everyone of her friends were left in awe at how amazing the place it is, all very fitting for a professional and beautiful buisnesspony.

"I take it from your reaction that you like the boutique?" Rarity asked with a knowing smile that says she knows she knows they do.

"It's lovely." Fluttershy commented with a bright smile.

“It’s just about everything you said it would be! Remarkable!” Kyoga complimented. “Definitely your style!”

"Gosh, Rarity. I know hard work when I see it, and it looks like you worked your hooves to the nub!" Applejack commented looking on very impressed with the hard work and dedication she helped put into this place.

"I don't know." Pinkie said otherwise while inspecting Rarity's hooves, "Those hooves don't look nubby. They look scrubbied and buffied and pedied!"

"Well, despite my 'nubby scrubby buffy pony pedi, I actually have been working very hard!" Rarity explained as she kindly drew her hoof away. "However, I never could have gotten the boutique ready for the grand opening without the help of my new manager Sassy Saddles!"

Everyone turned their attention to see just recently mentioned unicorn enter the room. Said mare is very tall and thin, on par with Princess Cadance’s build. She has a light blue coat, orange eyes, and a matching orange mane with yellow streaks in it. In addition she has blue eye shadows, wore a dark purple dress, and a golden saddle-shaped accessory on her back. Her horn was glowing in a bright gold aura while levitating a clipboard. She lowered it down as she widened her eyes and smiled when she sees Rarity alongside her friends.

"Bust my buttons, Rarity! And the Lion and Pony Guard themselves!"

The friends happily greeted the nice unicorn with smiles and waves along with the casual greeting words.

"I knew I needed a manager for Canterlot Carousel," Rarity explained, "so when Sassy showed me her resumé and I saw that she worked in all of the finest boutiques in Canterlot, I hired her right on the spot!"

Sassy Saddles levitated a long folded paper in front of everyone, "I then laid out this plan, or "pattern" as we say…” She said the last bit to Twilight personally knowing full well of her kind of personality. “…in the fashion biz, for Canterlot Carousel so that Rarity's boutique will be a guaranteed success and those doors will never, ever, ever close!" Based on the plan she displayed, the unicorn's excitement very well showcased her dedication and passion in the fashion business as much as Rarity wanting to get this shop up and running.

"Wow, Sassy. Your attention to detail is truly impressive." Twilight complimented.

“Very keen if I may add! Meaning truly on point with Rarity’s desires! And that’s coming from the bird that’s helped put together many of designs!” Ono added in agreement while blushing a bit given that he’s not exactly a feminine person in this kind of business.

“Why thank you Ono! The Keenest of Sight. “Sassy returned feeling delighted before moving to unfold part of the paper, showcasing an image of the boutique with a pin over the image, "I've already put a pin in the first piece of the pattern – Beautify the Boutique! But next was the very crucial pattern piece – Marketing to the Mares!" She unfolded the paper more, showcasing an image of a megaphone and various ponies listening with great smiles. "Turns out that everypony here loves royalty!"

“Wow!” Kion commented sounding amazed himself. “Imagine that!”

Rarity then added in. "So I created a collection that beautifully revolves around the royal element of Canterlot!"

Sassy Saddles approached her along with the alicorn and half-alicorn. "And it just so happens there's, not one, but a hot new prince and princess in Equestria!" She said the last part with a special interest as she eyed Twilight once more.

Rarity quickly moved to gesture the unicorn to remember her friends need for personal space. "In every poll Sassy Saddles took, you two were the most popular princess and prince!" Rarity said, "Coincidentally, one of my gowns is inspired by the window in Canterlot Castle commemorating your coronation Twilight. And as for you Kion, the same can be said for your tuxedo.”

Sassy stood on the stage, removing the curtains to reveal a stunning one of a kind gown and tuxedo jacket.

The skirt had three pieces of fabric stitched together, the first one was aquamarine blue, the middle half was ocean blue, and the lower half was purple, each with an increasing shade of transparency. Each piece was decorated with patters that makes it form the shape of star constellations on a stain glass window. Two fake white wings were placed on the back of the top edge and there is a crystal-like star to serve as the top of the dress to match the stain glass imagery of the dress.

As for the tuxedo, the jacket itself has the same color as the first piece of the skirt, the vest is the same color as the middle half of the skirt, and the bow-tie is the same color as the lower half of the skirt.

Everyone was astonished by the beauty of the designs.

“While I've always prided myself on paying attention to detail, I've taken my latest collection to a whole new level with "Rarity's Rules of TLC"!"

Pinkie Pie then appeared ridding on a design dummy, which was wearing an unfinished piece on it, "Judging by this baby, TLC stands for Tasty Liquorice Candy!" She slid down, causing the skirt part to fall off and land on her head.

“Really?” Bunga curiously eyed it before daring to a take a bite out of it. But Fuli was quick to snatch the skirt away before putting it back in its place.

“No.” Fuli shook his head towards the honey badger to get him to refrain from trying that again. “That’s not it. Especially when we’re talking about fashion not candy.” Both the honey badger and pony chuckled in embarrassment.

"TLC stands for 'Time, Love, and Couture'." Rarity explained before placing the dummy back in her room and closed the door to avoid anyone else the opportunity to fool around with the various designs in there. "And while I do agree that these dresses have potential, I've not had enough time to give them enough love to become couture. But the rest of the gowns in tonight's line have met Rarity's Rules and are ready to be presented!"

Sassy Saddles's horn glowed while she rose up her pattern, "My marketing research also confirmed that customers that viewed somebody famous wearing a gown wish to own that gown for themselves." She unfolded the paper and placed it on the wall in front of them which showed an image of Rarity with a star behind her. "I call this piece of the pattern Celebrity Status!"

Rarity's ears lowered shyly as she hesitated a little before asking both the prince princess, "So, Twilight, Kion I was hoping if you both might possibly wear these tonight?"

Both the prince and princess were quick to reply while happily to oblige to their wishes with the latter speaking out for herself and the former.

"If being a prince and princess in wearing that dress and tuxedo helps your boutique in any way, then I say stick a pin in it!" Using her magic, she levitated a pin and stuck it into the image Sassy just showed. The unicorn herself smiled happily at their response, especially Twilight.

"Alright, everybody! Let's set the stage! It's time to open up shop!"

“Ever since I was a little filly, all I've ever wanted was to own a boutique here in Canterlot. Somebody pinch me! I'm about to open the doors to that very boutique!" Rarity happily expressed as she sees more and more of how her biggest dreams are actually coming true. “OW!” She screamed as she finds someone literally did pinch her and wound up karate kicking said pincher into the wall behind her.

“Oof!” Bunga grunted as grubs are circling in his eyes. “You know what they say! A pinch helps to grow an inch!” He got out before passing out.

“Oh my!” Rarity blushed while looking on apologetically and placed a hoof to cover her mouth in shock.

While Kion and Beshte moved to check up on him, Fuli looked on with a proud smile.

“Don’t worry about. He’s fine. Nothing his favorite bugs and dung beetles won’t cure.” She assured feeling she would have done the same thing if she were in her hooves.

With everything all said and done regardless with what happened, the doors opened and Rarity opened her mouth to greet her new clients...

"Welcome to the grand opening of Canterlot Carousel!" Sassy Saddles greeted while literally overshadowing Rarity’s big moment, not to mention literally blocking her view.

The white unicorn was left shocked, speechless and disappointed with what she just did. Her friends reacted the same way. This was not what she was expecting at all in the slightest.

Regardless, Sassy's introduction did get the ball rolling. One by one, she greeted the costumers that entered the store, "Oh, hello! Oh, nice to see you! Welcome, welcome! Oh, I'm so happy to see you…"

"That Sassy totally stepped on your hooves, Rarity." Applejack commented.

“Couldn’t agree more.” Fuli said likewise.

“Oh, no!" Pinkie exclaimed, "Did she mess up that nice pony pedi?!" She inspected Rarity's hooves, while she was still in a state of shock much to Twilight, Fuli, and Ono’s eye rolling dismay.

“No Pinkie, she didn’t.” Ono flatly replied while slapping a wing over his eyes in response to her needless actions.

She sighed in relief when she saw that nothing is wrong with them. "Okay. Phew!"

Rarity snapped out of it as she tried to rationalize with what Sassy just did. "Oh, I don't think she meant to. Besides, as my manager it is her job to help make a good first impression. She was only doing her job is all."

“Are you sure what she just did is just doing her job?” Kion asked with heavy emphasis to hint that she didn’t seem to understand her boundaries (discounting her dealings with Twilight) “Because it looked like she was over-stepping your authority.”

“If not undermining her authority.” Ono added.

Said pony approached her boss. "Rarity, are you ready to reveal the collection?"

Fuli narrowed her eyes at her while speaking to Rainbow Dash under her breath, "Is she sure she doesn't want do it herself?"

Rainbow Dash snorted bitterly under her breath in response. "Yeah."

"Yes, I am." Rarity responded before turning to both the prince and princess. “Twilight, Kion would kindly get ready?”

“Of course.”

“We’ll get ready.”

They happily obliged as they moved to make their way towards the dressing room so they can get ready for the show.

Upon seeing the concerned look Rarity was showing Ono flew over to give this advice to her. “Everything will be okay. Just feel free to remind Sassy who’s boss if you have to.”

Feeling a little more confident, Rarity moved to step up on stage as she made her announcement to the crowd.

"Fillies and gentlecolts! I am designer and couturier Rarity, I'd like to welcome you – again" She laughed nervously at the last bit. "– to the grand opening of Canterlot Carousel, and I'm thrilled that you are here to see my newest collection inspired by this regal city!"

The curtain opened behind her to reveal four original gowns on display. Oohs came from the crowd and several unicorns levitated their cameras to snap pictures. Sassy Saddles smiled in satisfaction, that things are to their liking.

However Rarity was once more surprised when BGM music started to play and she saw each of her gowns being levitated and danced in a circle above the crowd, wowing them even more courtesy of Sassy Saddles something that she never planned to do nor was consulted about it by her.

She walked down the small stairs of the stage to try to speak with her manager before she was stopped by a male unicorn pony with a dark blue coat and three gold Hollywood-like stars for a cutie mark and gray colored mane and tail, wearing a pair of stylish sunglasses and a red bandana.

"Rarity, I'm—"

"Fashion Plate of Cosmare magazine!" She concluded with excitement, "I'm so honored that Cosmare was able to do a piece on the grand opening of my boutique!"

"Well, when Sassy Saddles calls, saying she's found the latest and greatest in fashion, we hightail without fail! Now tell me all about your latest collection!"

"Oh, uh, it's called "Rarity's Royal Regalia"."

Fashion Plate gasped with delight and his photographers took more pictures, "Royally radiant!"

"My favorite part of being a designer is finding my inspiration, and that really wasn't difficult when it came to Canterlot." While Rarity explained, Sassy Saddles was working her magic…again. She lowered down an image of Canterlot city behind the unicorn, much to her surprise but went along with it as she continued to explain her design methods to the audience. "Everywhere I looked, the royal city just spoke to me! I call it "In-spire-ation"." She said as one of her gowns lowered down from above.

The gown was a lilac shade of purple, decorated with stars and a headpiece that resembled the gold and purple rooftops of the Canterlot castle. The gown got the crowd oohing with delight. Fashion Plate could not wipe off the smile on his face as his followers took millions of pictures by the minute.

"Genius! Simply genius!"

Sassy made another poster appear behind Rarity, one that depicted a pond of lilies, that her boss had never planned, but still pressed forward with it.

"I spent hours by the lily pond on the castle grounds, which inspired this gown – "Water Filly"!"

Another gown appeared, one with a long sleeved blue shirt, decorated with bubbles, leaves and red stones, the skirt resembled the leaves of the water lilies itself.

"Oh, the whimsy!" Fashion Plate further complimented.

"Watching Celestia raise the sun each morning literally lit up my day…" A literal ray of sunshine appeared behind her with another one of her gowns appeared before the audience. "This is "Tripping the Light"."

The gown itself was inspired by Celestia herself, consisting of the colors of her mane. The skirt was blue and long with cloud-like edges, and another small light green skirt sewn together with purple edges on the end of it, a purple belt and a blue top with a sun-shaped broach, and a white wing collar with purple wing-shaped shoes.

"Fantastic!"

The lights dimmed and Rarity giggled seeing that this showcase is going smoothly even with Sassy controlling the show itself. "And of course, Luna raising the moon guided me to sleep. I call this "Over the Moon"!" The stage was now decorated with stars hanging from the ceiling and a crescent moon, where her Luna-inspired gown stood.

The dress top was dark purple with a white crescent moon at the center and an equally matching white-colored pearled collar and a purple bow. The belt was made of white pearls and the skirt was a lighter shade of purple with blue stones at the bottom, making it shimmer and shine.

"Well, I certainly am!" Fashion Plate smiled feeling very delighted with what he is seeing.

"And for our finale, I have something very special. As many of you might know, there was an epic battle of good vs. evil both in the Pride Lands and at the Crystal Empire which I had the honor of helping rescue the hostages back then. Back then I was inspired by the stained glass windows created in honor of both Princess Twilight and Prince Kion to create this new dress and a matching tuxedo…I call this "The Reigns in Stain"!"

"Because the dresses are inspired by the—"

"—stained glass window of two reigning princesses!" Rarity and Fashion Plate finished together in unison, equally enthusiastic.

"Yes!"

Sassy Saddles cleared her throat, getting Rarity’s attention, "Oh, well, I think "The Reigns in Stain" is too difficult to explain! Especially for the signature piece of a collection?"

"But I rather like the—" Rarity was interrupted before she could continue as she once again overstepped her bounds.

"Fillies and gentlecolts, I, Sassy Saddles, am pleased to introduce the grand finale of the grand opening of Rarity's Royal Regalia – the "Prince Tux and Princess Dress"!

The spotlight shone up high on the staircase, showcasing both Twilight and Kion wearing the new gown and tux made by Rarity's designs. The prince and princess made the outfits look even more beautiful than before. The crowd gasped in awe at the beauty and design of the tux and gown itself.

Fashion Plate gasped seeing it is a wonderful sight to behold. "Success!"

The crowd continued oohing and chattering happily as Kion and Twilight both made their way down the stairs, smiling and waving at the crowd.

Rarity looked on proudly as everyone marvels at the gown and tux seeing they all love her creations. After everything that happened, it still proven to be a grand opening no pony shall forget.

Once the prince and princess reached the end of the stairs, Sassy Saddles addressed to the crowd while levitating her clipboard. "Everypony, please follow me and you can all place your orders for the Prince Tux and Princess Dress!"

Instantly everyone already formed a line around Sassy, while Kion and Twilight’s tux and gown shimmered underneath the spotlight.

Fashion Plate smiled at the fashion designer as he approached her once more. "Rarity, I want to be the first pony to congratulate you! The Princess Dress has just guaranteed Canterlot Carousel's success!"

The unicorn walked off of the stage, where she is greeted with praise and congrats from her friends.

“Once again you have amazed me.” Kyoga complimented with a proud smile.

"Yeah! Your Royal Regalia is amazing!" Twilight agreed as she approached her friend. "And everypony seemed to love the Prince Tux and Princess dress!"

"You bet your saddle that did!” Sassy said in agreement as she approached the group, levitating a tall stack of papers. "You now have one hundred orders for your signature gown and tux!"

Rarity's jaw nearly dropped to the floor in horror as she stammered her next words in shock, "One hundred orders?! All at one time?!"

"According to my pattern, the next piece is The Success of the Signature Dress, so I do not see the problem!"

Sassy may not see she is doing anything wrong, from a business perspective that is, but Rarity however saw it to be quite a big deal given that she has been overstepping her bounds and undermining her authority in front of her guests by calling all of the shots without her say so. Rarity’s eye twitched in anger as it was slowly boiling inside as she narrowed her eyes at her.

The others could correctly sense that Sassy is ticking her off without realizing it. But none of them were about to get involved in something that Rarity can handle herself.

"Cupcake?" Pinkie offered to help ease up the tension in the air to which they were all quick to seize on the offer on a silver platter (literally).

Rarity felt better knowing that her friends know that she can deal with this herself which was a great gesture of good faith on their part before moving to clear her throat before speaking to her manager. "First of all, Sassy Saddles, I would have appreciated getting to name the final gown from my collection myself."

Sassy released a short laugh before replying, "My research shows that your "Reigns in Stain" name was a play on words that was both very confusing and quite unappealing."

Kion growled in response and bared his teeth while digging his claws into the floor to keep himself from exploding in anger. Given that he has seen firsthand what can happen if he is not careful about choosing his battles and it nearly fractured his friendship with Twilight, he is really and barely keeping it together.

To help him out with it Bunga quickly placed a cupcake in his paw to treat him to something that’ll help keep his mind off of it. Kion moved to munch on while turning his back on Sassy Saddles. Due to the combined ingredients leading to a spicy flavor he ended up sporting a literal red hot flaming mane upon consuming it. Upon seeing this, Pinkie quickly tossed a handful of her ice blue candies to quickly get the burning lion to cool off before he accidentally frightens the crowd and alerts the nearby firefighters.

Rarity released a disgruntled laugh in response before continuing trying to get her to understand why she has an issue with it. "While I see your point, we should have discussed it prior to the grand opening, Sassy."

"My only goal is for Canterlot Carousel to succeed." Sassy sincerely said in her defense. "That's why I changed the name, and that is why I took all those orders for the Princess Dress and Prince Tux."

"But… But receiving orders for one hundred dresses in one day, i--it's just too much too soon!"

"Are you actually saying we should... cancel these orders?!"

"Wha… But…" Rarity stammered before replying and conceding in defeat. "Uh, n-no, Sassy. Promises were made, and I shall sew my very best to provide each and every pony a Princess Dress and Prince Tux full of TLC."

"Oh, thank you, Rarity, thank you!" Sassy hugged her boss before getting back to organizing the orders.

Rarity sighed after dropping her forced smile. While everything worked out so far, she was already feeling the pressure of the business. Not helped given her manager’s actions and handling of the matter. She turned to see Kion approach her.

“Would it make you feel better if we stick around in case it gets to stressful?” He asked.

“Or if Sassy Saddles keeps undermining your authority?” Ono added.

Rarity smiled at both the lion prince and egret before moving to assure him that she won’t need. “No thanks, darlings. While I appreciate the offer, I think this is something I can handle on my own."

“I understand.” Kion accepted her decision none of the less remembering the experience Badili had with Mapigano. “Well if you do change your mind, let Ono know and he’ll get us and we’ll be on over there in an instant.”

“I will definitely consider it should it come down to that.”

Later, the group said their goodbyes to the unicorn who waved back as they left the boutique allowing her to take care this by herself. As tempting as it is, they have complete confidence to know that this something she can handle herself.

"Oh, satin and silk, Rarity, are you sure you don't want your friends to help you make the dresses and tuxedos?" Sassy asked.

"No, Sassy. These orders are my responsibility. All I have to do is stick to my plan so I can deliver each and every Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo in keeping with my Rules of Rarity!" She replied with great certainty before quickly getting to work with the usual love and passion that goes with the couture she puts into her work with.

“The rules of Rarity guarantee quality

This I can assure

For each and every dress

I vow to give finesse

With time, love, and couture.”

As she worked and went with the flow like she always does, many passing by ponies briefly stop to watch her work her magic on those dresses and tuxedos.

“My favorite moment's when a pony sees it

That special gown that she just adores

That pony's now in style

My hard work's all worthwhile

Oh, yes, it makes my heart

My heart just soar.”

The days went by as she continued making the orders. One day, two new costumers entered the building. Rarity really wanted to attend to them, only for Sassy to insist that she has to focus on her work before moving to attend the customers herself. She was pretty disappointed but it didn’t really surface until Sassy moved to remove all of the presented dresses leaving only the Princess Dress and Prince Tux on display.

Slowly and surely the stunning dress and tuxedo were starting to lose its sparkling wonder. From the sparkling gems losing their sparkle, to the colors growing duller, it was all becoming all unoriginal more and more so. Before long, almost everypony in Canterlot was wearing the Princess Dress and Prince Tux. Everywhere she went, she saw the dress and tux which truthfully isn’t as glamorous as it should be.

Heck, even Ono can barely see the distinguishing sparkle they created due to seeing it on every pony he passes by while watching over Canterlot and can only look in worried concern for his fashionista friend who is growing more and more upset with her current work style.

“The rules of Rarity, just a parody

No dress here's unique

The panels all the same

Each colored windowpane

I fashion only makes me want to shriek!”

It got to the point she sighed in distress while resting her head on the table just unable to keep working on these tuxedos and dresses anymore like the colors were about to go all black and white around her.

Fortunately for her the color didn’t completely go away when she saw two familiar faces enter her shop. The color was in fact restored when she saw who had come to greet her. A certain hippo and a certain lioness.

“Hey Rarity! How’s it going?”

"Beshte! Kyoga! What a pleasant surprise!"

“Same can be said for us! So anyways, how’s business.”

“Oh, going swimmingly, as usual…” Rarity replied trying her hardest to put up a smile to mask her truthful disappointment in the matter.

“I can tell and enough said.” Kyoga commented very understanding of what she is saying upon seeing the Prince Tux and Princess Dresses all around her inside and outside of the shop. “Well, lucky for you, Beshte and I got you something that’ll cheer you up straight from the diamond caves in Ponyville.” She levitated three bowls of sparkling gemstones onto her work table.

“We figured that with the dresses and tuxedos losing their special touch, we’d bring you something that’ll help restore the color to your future inspiration for your other work.” Beshte added.

“Really?” Rarity took a good look at the gems whose eyes starting gleaming with inspiration like her friends thought it would when she saw the rainbow shimmer inside of them. “Wow! Thanks a bunch!”

“You’re welcome!”

“Our pleasure!”

Just then they turned to see Rarity’s manager waiting just outside her office looking on expectantly at her to get back to work.

“Anyways, I must continue my work, and as always great seeing you!” Rarity happily expressed as the two make their way out of the store.

“Like I said, pleasure’s all ours!”

“You said it!”

After they had left, Rarity quickly got to work with the magic she was just provided courtesy of her friends visit. With the glimmering glow they produced when they reflected off of Celestia’s sun and onto the Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo she was currently working on. It was there she got new ideas, new designs drawing inside her head. The gears are all turning in her head as she started getting to work with a happy smile.

“Oh, to create would give me elation

To feel once again some inspiration

Come on now, Rarity

Give me some clarity

Time for your couture love to rule.”

As time went by, the color around her was now getting more and more brighter.

“The rules of Rarity, extra TLC

This feels more sublime

Soon now, they will see how good these can be

With a little extra shine

The rules of Rarity guarantee quality

All can see it's true

These new gems add such flair

Their beauty can't compare

This old style suddenly gleams anew.”

The following day, a unicorn with a pinkish while coat with chili peppers for a cutie mark, red and pink mane and tail, and light pink eyes entered the boutique. The bell ringing got Rarity's attention, who was just adding the finishing touches to her most recently created dress and tuxedo.

"Is that the customer who ordered this Princess Dress?" She asked Sassy, who took a moment to look away from her clipboard to see the costumer hoping to be attended.

"I'll take care of her." Sassy assured. "You keep working."

"Uh, actually, I'd love to see her reaction to this particular dress and tux." Rarity insisted only for Sassy to counter respond by gesturing to the stack of papers on the counter.

One box was marked for every order placed, while the other was marked for every order that was completed. "Paisley and poplin, Rarity, look at all the orders you still have to finish, and you want to take a break? Now?"

"Well, it's just I made some really lovely changes to this dress—"

"You did what?!" Sassy studied the dress along with the tux, seeing the changes Rarity had made. While they were indeed glamorous, they were not what they were originally. "But every Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo is supposed to be exactly the same!"

"Yes yes I know, but these gems just spoke to me, and—"

"Fine. Go see her reaction." Sassy knew deep down that it’s not going to go well, especially if one doesn’t give the customer what they expected from what they ordered.

But Rarity had a gut feeling this was the best choice. Who wouldn't love the new gems she added? She was certain this costumer would love her one of a kind Princess Dress. Who doesn't want to feel unique? She approached the costumer, levitating the gown.

"Hello, and welcome to Canterlot Carousel! I am so pleased to present to you your—"

"Princess Dress!" The pony exclaimed happily, "Finally! I've been simply desperate to get this ever since I saw the Princesses wearing it at your—" Once she got ahold of the dress with her own magic, she noticed something was off, "…Wait a minute. There's something different."

"Well as an artiste, I did take the liberty to change a few minor details." She explained proudly. However, the customer was not impressed much to Rarity’s worried shock. "I, eheh, I saw these gems glistening in the light, and they just spoke to me. Aren't they lovely? And so unique!"

The unicorn sighed impatiently with a disappointed frown. "They're… fine. But they're not what I ordered, are they?"

"Uh, no. No, they're not." She honestly replied.

"I want the dress to be exactly like the one Princess Twilight wore. Understand?"

"Yes… Y-Yes, of course." She said in defeat before moving to take the dress back in her workplace. For once her manager wisely refrained from saying “I told you so.” More out of sympathy while firm about her stance on appealing to the customer’s desires and wishes.

Upon seeing that this is worth trying to change, she resumed working on the dresses and tuxedos just like they were presented at the grand opening. Even if she didn’t like it was probably for the better.

“The rules of Rarity

Once stood for something

But now it feels just like some factory

Now every dress I make

With every flaw and mistake

Oh, how it makes my heart

My heart just break.”

By the end of it all, she was left crying with heartbroken tears as her heart and soul was poured into all of that work.

By the end of the week she had finally completed the orders. She sewed together the last skirt of the Princess Dress along with putting together and tying up the last bow tie on the Prince Tuxedo. For the first time in her life she was relieved that her work with this is all done. Unfortunately for her, her relief is cut short when her manager walked in with her clipboard again, smiling with happiness.

"Raving rick-rack, Rarity! You made two hundred Princess Dresses and Prince Tuxedos!"

"Yes. Isn't it spectacular?" The poor unicorn commented in a rather deadpan manner. Her mane was now rather messy, her eyes were sporting exhausted eye bags, feeling like the color and energy inside of has faded.

"And I have a special surprise for you! The latest issue of Cosmare magazine just hit the stands!" Sassy levitated a magazine in front of Rarity, which had a picture of herself on the cover. Normally, she would have been excited…but now, she was feeling just quite the opposite.

"Canterlot's newest rising star"?" She read word for word out loud still deadpan and stoic in tone.

"And in the hour since the magazine's come out, we've gotten another hundred new orders for the Princess Dress and the Prince Tuxedo!"

To Rarity's horror, a large stack of papers landed onto the 'waiting' stack on the table. Just looking at them had the poor girl nearly faint at the work load immediately reappearing.

"One… hundred more... Princess Dresses?!" She remarked rather wearily at the sight of it. "I'm the Cosmare cover pony... I have the most successful shop in Canterlot... I've gotten everything I ever wanted... but I'm miserable!"

Sassy laughed at the idea thinking she is joking. "How could you possibly be miserable? My pattern is perfect!" Her long pattern hung on the wall, with a pin on each and every picture of her plan, having been completed with flying colors, "Cosmare Cover Pony – done! You have your signature gown and tux, the Princess Dress and Prince Tuxedo of Success!"

"I don't want to make another hundred Princess Dresses and Prince Tuxedos!"

"I have a piece for that!" Sassy placed the final pin on the final picture of her pattern. "Assemble the Assembly Line! You'll never have to sew again!"

"What?! No!" She exclaimed up standing up from her chair unable to take much more of this repetitive work style. It was already draining the color inside of her already and anymore so will have her feeling like this will completely turn herself and her whole store into one of those shows where the color around her has gone all black and white without ever being allowed to be the colorful designer she is destined to be.

"Yes! Then the Canterlot Carousel never closes! And Sassy Saddles' boutique succeeds!"

That was the last, and final straw for her. She was now at her breaking point and now she can’t stand any of this anymore.

"Stooooooooooooooooppp!" Sassy smile turned into a expression of confused shock. “This is not your boutique! And if this is what success in Canterlot looks like, I want no part of it!" She furiously stated as she got face to face with her manager leaving said unicorn looking on in fear of her for the first time in her life. "Now, make up flyers for a going-out-of-business sale! I'm closing Canterlot Carousel!"

With a huff, Rarity walked out of the room, leaving Sassy to gasp in horror and beg her boss to reconsider what she just told her. "What?! No! Oh, you can't, Rarity! I-I've worked too hard to make this a success! I can't be a part of another failed boutique!" But her words were in vain, as she slammed the door on her. To her boss, Rarity would rather things go out this way rather spend another second creating a design that has turned her newest dream into a soul-sucking job.

Once the store was completely clean of the dresses and tuxedos, she took out all of her original designer gowns and suits that were supposed to be on display from day one and put them in their place. To her it was the place had meaning again and the color around was literally being restored.

All while Sassy watched on in dismay upon seeing the changes her boss is asserting, something that is leaving her feeling astonished and dismayed given the hard work she poured into it. But Rarity went ahead with it since this is what makes her truly happy.

"Oh, don't you look lovely? Nice to see you out here again." She remarked to herself before looking up the staircase to see Sassy looking on distraught. "Seems Sassy Saddles isn't rushing to open the door this time. Hm."

Of course she expected that but it is for the best before she proceeded to open up business for the ponies all gathering outside her shop for her next sale with a relieved and comfortable smile plastered on her face.

"Welcome to the going-out-of-business sale of Canterlot Carousel."

To her surprise, a heard of female ponies galloped into the store. In just a few short seconds the entire store was packed to which had Rarity feeling genuinely pleased with what she is seeing.

One pony with a nasal voice walked up to her and asked. "Hey, is this Princess Dress on sale?" She levitated a magazine with said dress on the cover.

"Oh, no, I'm sorry, the Princess Dress has been discontinued. But there are plenty of other lovely dresses on sale today."

A goth-looking unicorn, looked on at the Luna inspired gown it is awe-inspiring in her mind. Or at least the best a stoic pony could show and express. "Whoa. This dress completely speaks to my soul. Can I try it on?"

"Certainly." Rarity levitated her the dress so she can move to try it on. "The dressing area is right back there."

Another pony expressed excitement for the Celestia inspired dress. "This is the most amazing of amazing dresses! Just looking at it brightens my day!"

Rarity levitated the dress off the display and gave it to the happy sunny pony that Celestia herself would get along with in a heartbeat. "And I'm sure you'll feel even brighter once you try it on!"

A unicorn with an architecture cutie mark walked up to Rarity, showcasing a specific magazine page. "Do you still have this In-spire-ation dress that's in the new issue of Cosmare?"

"Oh, yes, I do. It's-It's right here."

The pony smiled with glee at the sight of the gown she was just directed towards. "Bats in the belfry! I have to try it on!"

The goth pony looked at herself in the mirror, speaking flatly but smiling with satisfaction at the dress she is currently trying on. "Whoa. This dress makes me feel like a princess."

The sunny pony, now wearing the Celestia inspired dress, appeared tight next to her, embracing her in a hug along with admiring her own gown in the mirror, much to the goth pony’s sight discomfort. "And this dress makes me feel like a princess!"

From above, Sassy observed everything. She was truly astonished and amazed of how every pony found a dress and suit to their liking. It was all completely new to her and left her wondering how is this success all happening when it hasn’t been worn by someone famous.

One unicorn pony spoke with Rarity over one dress she is trying to get invested into. "This gown is quite beautiful, but it totally clashes with my complexion."

Rarity pondered for a moment before offering a suggestion. "Hmmm. Perhaps you'd be even more taken with this one." She pulled an in-progress dress, the one Pinkie Pie accidentally tore off the skirt on opening day. "It was inspired by the fountain in the Canterlot Castle garden. I call it the "Fountain of Truth"!"

"It's exactly what I've been dreaming of!" The pony exclaimed happily already liking it on sight.

"Oh! Well, then I'll finish it, and the gown shall be yours!"

The pony smiled in gratitude and Rarity took a moment to really look around, observing each and every single pony find what they like right on the shelves themselves. It was her suddenly lost passion was restored and was suddenly reminded of why she opened this boutique in the first.

"How can I have forgotten? This is what I've been dreaming about!" She said to herself before singing to herself some words of encouragement.

“My favorite moment's when a pony sees it

That special gown that she just adores

That pony's now in style

My hard work's all worthwhile

Oh, yes, it makes my heart

My heart just soar!”

Upon seeing the newfound success had her stepping forward to make this new announcement in front of everyone.

"Attention, everypony! Canterlot Carousel will not be closing!"

Every pony cheered happily at the news. After all this place was just too wonderful to shut down.

"But this stuff's still on sale, right?" The goth pony asked.

Rarity giggled while nodding. "Yes, yes, of course."

Sassy walked down the stairs, still feeling confused. "Well….” She struggled to find the right words to say here. “I…I don’t know what to say. I mean even without any special promotion your dresses on display are still a success.”

“I know.”

“But how?”

“With one simple key ingredient…” She said while showcasing her magazines and papers of her previous successful creations. Said photos, which depicted her friends from the Lion and Pony Guard along with their friends and family. “…specialty. Specialty that allows one to create new ideas that are special, unique, and beautiful in their own way and appeals to each and every individual I come across seeking and something of what makes them feel special inside. Something that truly speaks to my own inspiration and my very own special designs."

Hearing this had left Sassy completely remorseful as if she is now seeing things in full color for the first time like she is seeing herself in Rarity from when she was first starting out in the art of fashion. "Oh, Rarity, I'm so sorry. I focused on that one dress and tuxedo, and the rest of Rarity's Royal Regalia paid the price."

"Well, so did the Princess Dress and Prince Tux. The more I sold the more each dress lost its time, love, and couture, becoming terrible, lackluster, and common."

"I think I finally understand the Rules of Rarity…" The unicorn lowered her head in shame as she started to walk out fully understanding that she is longer a part of this business. "…and will apply them at my next job. Hopefully they will come in handy before I wind up bombing the success of that next business before it could even begin."

"I beg your pardon?" Rarity said, making her manager stop in her tracks just before she could reach the door. "The Rules of Rarity are only to be applied at Canterlot Carousel! Which is why you must continue to manage the boutique while I'm in Ponyville."

"Ponyville?"

"Well, yes, I'll come to Canterlot with new designs and to see the customers of course, but Ponyville was always going to be my home base."

Sassy gasped with joy, "Bobbins and bodkins, Rarity! Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! And I promise to run everything following your rules."

"I would expect nothing less." Rarity hugged her manager, forgiving her for the rough start they went through together seeing her as worthy for the job like she saw in her from the start, along with a new friend while she is at it.

"Oh, my gosh, a sale!" An large pony remarked as she entered the store. "Do you have the Princess Dress along with the Prince Tux?!"

"No!" The two unicorns responded in unison before laughing. The large pony simply shrugged before moving to look around to find what she really likes and wants to try out before deciding to buy it.

“But I can assist you with finding something else…” Sassy quickly offered. “We’ve got plenty of options to choose from!”

Rarity looked on with happy pride upon seeing of how things have now finally worked out as her manager is now seeing things her way. And like she said she promises she will follow her rules to the T going forward and will always consult with her on future business endeavors.

For a pony who once was in her hoofs before, she could truly relate to her in that regard and that’s how they managed to become great friends through and through.

Author's Note

Hello everyone I'm back, here with the opener of the second half of this season which of course is pretty much straightforward and a Breather from what had happened in the last batch of episodes leading up to the exciting mid-season finale.

Here Rarity pretty much gets her own personal lesson about following her true passion and knowing when to put her hoof down when help she hired starts overstepping her boundaries in the matter just when she is starting to expand her business. It is only after she hits her breaking point does she start running things the way she envisioned as she is after all in charge of the whole business.

At the same time, Sassy Saddles begins to start understanding the rules of Rarity more as she begins to start running the Canterlot properly going forward. And while she does have her business practices to use she just has to ensure that she doesn't undermine Rarity's authority again. At least she is lucky that Rarity is not the kind of boss who would fire anypony over something like this even if that's the case under normal circumstances.

Moving forward is "The Scare Master." where Nightmare Night returns once more with a reluctant Fluttershy trying to steel her nerves to try to join her friends in celebrating the holiday for once. But can it really work out?

Episode 25: Scare Master

Episode 25:

Scare Master

It was that time of the year again. The time where ponies and Pride Landers are laughing and screaming about. The time where they see plastic spiders, pumpkins created in the form of Jack-O-Lanterns, cobwebs, and scary clowns all across town. The time where said holiday of the month is NightMate Night.

Ponies all around were dressed in their most frightening costumes they can think of as usual. From vampires, mummies, zombies, changelings, minators, werewolves, witches, lions, and tigers and bears, you name it. Although there were some that chose to dress up in not so scary costumes so as mermaids, fairies, princesses, roller-skates, astronauts, soldiers, knights, superheroes, bumblebees, ninjas, and heck even cute and cuddly look penguins.

The best part of it all especially for the children is all of the fun scares and candies they could eat until they can’t no more. It is a children’s dream come true for every pony and a holiday worth going out and celebrating over...

…well with one sole exception hiding out in the cottage where many animals and critters are all residing alongside their favorite caretaker as it was no secret that NightMare Night is her least favorite holiday.

Fluttershy flew from corner to corner, pulling down the shades of her cottage windows with great speed that would make Rainbow Dash proud of her. To her it’s like watching her help her give the other Pegasus ponies the wingpower they need to transport water to Cloudsdale. After pulling down the last shade she heard the sound of clattering from the windows to which had Fluttershy having chills shuddering down her spine.

"Fuzzy Legs, do you think you could secure those windows?" She asked her tarantula friend who was more than happy to oblige before joining Fluttershy along with all of the other animals inside with her.

"And you'll alert me if anything scary comes close to the cottage?" she asked her bird friends who chirped happily in response. "Oh, who am I kidding? When something scary comes close to the cottage!" The birds chirped happily none of the less.

Even though she has taken baby steps to tame her fears, Nightmare Night however for some reason just always gets to her. Compared to the many dangers she’s faced alongside the Lion and Pony Guard, this however takes the cake that no icing can spread to help smooth it over.

She flew up to her bear friend, Harry to ask of him. "Please tell me my hiding place is ready."

Harry growled and nodded and lifted up the helm of Fluttershy's bed. The pony peeked underneath and sighed in relief. "Oh, look, you've filled it with everything I need to survive this awful night."

Her animal friends had made Fluttershy her own private bunker, complete with soft pillows, teary bears, her favorite books, a jar of peanut butter and some bread slices for her to snack on, a lantern and even a few vases with flowers to pretty her sanctuary up with. The ideal place for her to spend her Nightmare Night in.

"Thank you. Thank you all! Now I don't have to step a hoof outside until this whole thing is over.” Unfortunately for her tempted fate is against her when Angel lightly tugged on her mane to show her his empty bucket. “Oh, no! You don't have any carrots? Do we have any other fresh veggies you may enjoy? Or maybe some hay?" The other animals knowing Angel very well sadly shook their heads leaving Fluttershy to gasp in horror of what this means for her. "Oh my! Now that means I'll need to go out… on Nightmare Night?!" She could only look out her window in fear as she looks out to her surroundings in a near paralysis state just so she can retrieve what she needs in order to feed her pet bunny.

After shaking it off, she managed to muster up enough courage to go out during the Nightmare Night celebrations as she makes her way to get the necessary groceries she needs to make it through tonight. All while looking around nervously and hoping that the biggest source of her trauma isn’t around lurking in the shadows.

So far as she walked across town all she saw were the Ponyville residents in costumes going on about with the holiday as usual. Didn’t ease the Pegasus’s fear of them even though they were just costumes. During her walk she came across ponies preparing for their NightMare Night festivities. It had herself thinking why is it so hard for her to have fun on this holiday…at least until she remembered why.

She then heard three little foals singsonging happily as they walked pass her, one of the very good things she can feel comfortable being around.

"Nightmare Night, what a fright! Give me something sweet to bite!" They chanted and showed Fluttershy their sharp vampire fangs that are a part of their costumes to which had the frightened Pegasus gasp and fly away in a flash. What the confused fillies didn’t realize is that said fangs gave her a brief flashback back when she briefly became a vampire fruit bat. Said memory that only served as another reminder of why she ultimately fears the holiday itself.

Fluttershy flew upwards and decided to just fly over to Pride Rock with only one single goal in mind. Fetch Angel and ditch the castle so she can back to her to her holiday sanctuary. In just a few minutes she managed to fly through the portal and arrive at Pride Rock thanks to her quick sprint of speed during her brief rush of fear-filled adrenaline. She took a breath to try to compose herself as she made her way up the steps and towards the caves itself.

"Hello? Anybody here?"

“Hey, Fluttershy!”

"AAAAAAHHHHHHH!" Fluttershy quickly sprinted right by him and up in the air in fright while knocking the honey badger off of his back.

“Oops.” Bunga took off the glasses that Pinkie wore when trying to spy on the gang who were trying to secretly prepare for her surprise birthday party while getting up from the ground. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you let alone without even trying.”

“Bunga?”

“Yep that’s me.” He presented said glasses again while rubbing his now sore ribs. “Just thought I’d play the doorman when heard someone coming near the lair and give a good ole greet then scare. That is of course before seeing that it’s really you.”

“Well… I um…I appreciate the gesture.”

“Thanks! So anyway, what brings you here? I thought you’d be holed up in your home tonight.”

“I was. But then I realized I forget I let a friend of mine here in the Pride Lands.”

“Really? Like who?”

“Angel.”

“The bunny?! The mean little devil that made off with our super-duper-triple-chocolate cake just after we completed it? while Pinkie, Rainbow, Kyoga, and I were in Griffonstone!”

“Yes.” Fluttershy returned feeling a little upset hearing that.

“Fluttershy…” Bunga said upon realizing his error. “…you know I only say that because he is not all sweet and innocent inside, right?”

“Yes, it’s just I can’t believe he ate that whole cake by himself. It took weeks of little to no eating for him to burn off all of that weight.”

“Ha! Serves him right!” Deciding it was best to change the subject. “Anyways, I think he’s with Beshte right now. From what I hear, Beshte wanted to be sure he is good hooves while behaving himself while he helps the Lion and Pony Guard keep watch over the Pride Lands. Just in case the Outsiders try to take advantage of the holiday and try to wreak havoc tonight to which if they’re smart they’ll think twice before messing with us.”

“Then why are you here?”

“Because Kion wanted someone to watch over the entrance to the lair in case someone tried to get in and I’ll gladly and bravely volunteered for the job. Don’t want any of our enemies discovering the hidden secrets of the Pride Lands Past now do we?”

“No, I suppose not.” She meekly admitted.

“Don’t worry!” Bunga assured. “They’ll be back in just a little bit. As long as they stay to their territory we should be all in for a great night of fun.”

“Yes.”

Much like last year since the two worlds were coming together, both kingdoms have gotten into Nightmare Night. With candy, costumes, and fun games and scares involved the Pride Landers were all onboard with the celebration.

“Not to worry, good ole Bunga is here to protect you and will be more than happy to escort you inside the cave so that when everyone arrives you can just scoop up your cute fuzzy wuzzy friend and get on home. Does that sound fair? I’d like to say yes.”

“Yes.”

“See! Great!”

With that said the two went inside the cave so they can wait for the rest of their friends to show.

Once inside the cave Fluttershy was relieved to see there were hardly any spooky NightMare Night decorations, aside from a few pumpkins and NightMare Moon ornaments that are all there merely for decoration.

"Kion? Hello?"

She immediately froze in place once she heard footsteps approaching, followed by the silhouettes of what appeared to be some creepy figures coming at her from down the tunnel. Just like before with Bunga, Fluttershy's instances kicked in and she got into the same defensive stance, ready for whatever came her way, regardless of how terrorized she is inside. As the creature came closer she screamed while preparing to swoop over to fly by with all of her wing power to make her escape until said figures emerged from the shadows. Specifically a certain, young dragon and mandrill.

“Ooh! That is horrifyingly great!” Makini complimented.

"You think it's scary now, just wait until it's done." Spike proudly commented to Makini who are both already wearing their holiday costumes.

Spike's wearing a brown pangolin costume, complete with the dark sharp scales on his back while Makini is wearing a bright sky blue and pink Breezie costume, complete with the tall antennas along with blue and pink springs on her boots that had her jumping up and down very high everywhere she goes, including right now.

"Wow." Fluttershy softly spoke still frozen in terror upon seeing what she is seeing not out of shock nor that she didn't like them (they were really great in her mind) but because of the holiday itself giving her the paralyzing creeps.

"It's okay, Fluttershy. You don't have to like them." She assured there are no hard feelings."

"No, it's not that." Spike said before realizing something when he noticed that they are talking to Fluttershy. "Hey, wait a minute! It's Nightmare Night and you're here and not holed up in your cottage!" The little dragon smiled with excitement with hope. "Does this mean what I think it means?"

"That I foolishly forgot Angel's play-time with Beshte so I came all the way here from Ponyville to pick him up?"

Spike dropped his shoulders in disappointment upon hearing that. "Oh. I thought maybe you decided to come out with us tonight."

"Goodness, no! I couldn't be out tonight. I just couldn't."

"You are now!” Bunga pointed out.

Fluttershy blinked as the realization hit her. This whole time she had managed to bypass so many of the things that would naturally frighten her, and she even knocked Bunga onto his back in an act of self-defense.

"Oh. I guess that is true." Fluttershy then squeaked in fear when a figure with wings loomed over them. She quickly spun around and kicked him in self-defense…which turned out to be no other than a friend of hers. ”Kion! Oh my! I’m am so, so, sorry I thought you were Mzingo there for a second."

“It’s okay!” Kion quickly assured all is good. “Actually pretty good form there!”

“You can say that again!” Bunga said in agreement. “She actually got the drop on me just a few minutes ago. A pretty nice drop-kick there I might add.” He patted his sore ribs from the earlier impact as proof.

"Wow!” That’ll definitely come in handy someday. But with enough said and done. “So anyways, Fluttershy! It is sure is quite a surprise to see you here today!" Kion greeted just when Angel Bunny leaped down from his back wearing yellow paint and red leaves to resemble a fully grown lion like his father and grandfather while carrying carrots in his paws. "And yeah, he insisted I'd use my magic to get him carrots and tryout the look my friends had during the recent Ukumbusho Celebration." Said bunny growled like a lion to which had Fluttershy flinching a bit at the very sight in fright.

“Speaking of celebrations since you’re all done with patrol for the day…” Spike then spoke up. “…why don’t we all get together so we can partake in Nightmare Night, Fluttershy included?”

Kion looked on unsure at the idea knowing what it would mean for their timid friend. “I would, but you do have to remember that Fluttershy’s not really into Nightmare Night, Spike.”

Hearing this left Fluttershy further downcast and ashamed at her own paralyzing fear towards the holiday as Makini stopped hopping and bouncing in place. If only she could overcome it she wouldn’t be missing out on all of the fun the holiday has to offer. Her friends would have wanted it that why, but she can’t find in it in her to overcome it no matter how hard she tries.

"But why?" Bunga asked. "Compared to facing off against many bad guys, how is this holiday any different?"

"Bunga!" Kion sternly scolded.

"I don’t know why." Fluttershy spoke up to answer his question knowing that full well that it’s true. "I just am." She felt Kion’s comforting paw on her shoulder while an assuring smile to match.

"Because something really bad happened to you when you last tried to celeberate holiday isn't it?" Makini correctly figured out to the pony who can only look aside very timid and in shame. "Along with something very unspeakable too?" Even though she didn't reply that's all it took for her to understand why. "I see. Well, if it's any comfort you're not the only one who has goen through something like this and it's not uncommon for others to have irritonal fears."

“And that’s nothing to feel ashamed about, Fluttershy…” Another familiar voice with wings commented as she appeared inside the lair. “…it’s perfectly normal to have that kind of feeling whether it’s one thing or another.”

“Twilight?”

“Hello, Fluttershy.”

“What are you doing here?”

“Checking up with Kion to let him know that the Outsiders are all holed up in the Outlands and still haven’t made another move since our encounter with Scar a while back.”

“Oh. That.”

“That’s good to hear!”

“That said…” Twilight then said with her attention more focused on Fluttershy. “… I couldn’t help but overhear your little problem with Nightmare Night and I thought I’d might chime in a bit on it.”

"Like how?”

“Well, take me for example. For someone who’s faced off against Scar and many other villains before him, I too have something I fear. Something that’s admittedly very silly."

“Like what?”

“Quesadillas for starters, and of course, ladybugs.”

“But why?”

“For quesadillas, I don’t know and to be honest, I can’t quite remember why exactly whether it was me having a bad day on my first day of school or if it was one of those mean pranks my jealous classmates pulled on me. But anyways, for some reason something about them is what gets me. I mean it’s just that they’re so…cheesy.” She shuddered at the last part before shaking it off. “And for ladybugs, well that’s an easy one thanks to my brother convincing me that their extra eyes are always watching me when I was a filly.”

“Really?”

“Yes…” She quickly turned to Bunga with a glare. “…and don’t you even think about trying to prank me like that?”

“Who me?” Bunga tried to play innocent while tossing said quesadilla and ladybug aside. “I would never do a thing like that!” He then wisely scooted away but not without fetching the ladybug for Fluttershy’s sake she clearly didn’t like the sight of nature cruelty before her eyes.

“Anyways, the point being you’re not alone there. Everyone has something they’re scared of. Even me, Kion, the princesses, and the king and queen of the Pride Lands. Most likely what you’re dealing with is an emotional wound that you never fully recovered from back from the last time you truly celebrated Nightmare Night. For Kion, is of course becoming like Scar. For Simba and Nala, much like Mufusa’s is the thought and sight of their own children being in danger and nearly losing them. From what I understand is that you probably had someone in the past severely traumatize you and made off with a lot of candy to add insult to injury, right?"

“Yes.” She admitted but truthfully doesn’t really want to talk about.

“Oh really, like what?” Bunga asked.

“Well…for starters in your case…” Twilight said sternly in his direction for pushing the matter needlessly. “…you are afraid of mummies.” She magically had one appear right before him.

“Zoinks! Mummy!” He screamed before hiding behind Kion. “Keep it away from me!”

Twilight continued to allow said mummy in her telekinesis control to chase him around much to both Kion and Spike’s amusement for a good minute before finally making said mummy disappear in a flash just before he could approach and corner him.

Bunga who was covering his eyes bracing for impact sighed in deep relief upon seeing that his worst fear has vanished in thin air literally. “Phew! That was close! I hope that never happens to me again.”

“Don’t get your hopes up.” Spike teased to which Bunga pouted at in response.

“So anyways…” Twilight then turned her attention back towards Fluttershy. “…it’s perfectly normal and many of our friends can relate with you there. That said if you don’t to participate in Nightmare Night, that’s fine. We won’t hold anything against you. If you do great. The door is always open. So…since our patrol is a success and you now have Angel, shall I fly you back home before I join with the others in the Nightmare Night celebration?”

“Um, actually…” Fluttershy spoke up otherwise. “…if you don’t mind I would actually like to join you guys and girls this time.”

“Really?”

"Are you sure?"

Both leaders of the Guard asked with their ears perked up though not getting their hopes completely up.

"You think you can handle it. We don't want to put you up to something if you don't want to do it." Makini also reminded.

"Yes. All of those fun activities, the treats, the games, and the costumes you’d get to dress in. I want to be able to join in on what I couldn’t find in me to partake in all of these years. Plus I also want to be able to conquer my fears too. If anyone else can, so can I."

“Okay.”

“All right.”

Both Spike and Bunga quickly approved of Fluttershy’s bravery in wanting to give it a try.

“If you’re up for this, then we support you.” Kion said with a proud smile.

“Every step of the way.” Twilight added equally proud as Fluttershy smiled in return ready to give it a try with the rest of their friends.

"Welcome to Nightmare Night, Fluttershy!" Makini complimented while placing a party hat and a horn in her mouth which she made a sound when she blew into it.

Later on that night at Twilight’s castle…

"And then it got very, very quiet and suddenly they realized the balloons had never been inflated!"

The rest of the Lion and Pony Guard all (expect for Kyoga of course) screamed in terror right before they started to laugh. They were all gathered upstairs in sharing fun ghost stories. They were mainly meant for both terror and humor.

Bunga then took control the lantern and began telling his ghost story, "Okay, I've got one. It's called, The ghost of the haunted amusement park of the Crystal Empire! Ooh-aaah!" He wiggled his claws and made a haunting noise with his mouth while shining the flashlight in his own face. "One summer there were three kids heading home from school after winning first prize at the school talent show when they decided to take a short cut through the nearby theme park."

Everyone watched on attentively as he continues.

"So they hopped the fence. They may have heard the rumors, but they were all too smart to believe in, the Phantom of the Crystal Empire!" He leaned his arms forward up in the implied attack. Fluttershy whimpered along with everyone else. "Everybody knows about the Phantom. He wears a long black cape. He has a Genoa Salami for a right leg, and he stalks the park after dark looking for victims to eat." Everyone gasps in shock. "Here's an artist's drawing of what he looks like. None of them were seen again."

The group screamed once more before laughing again. Rainbow Dash rolled down onto the floor, hugging her stomach.
"Dang that's so awesomely scary!"

"Where did you hear that story from?" Pinkie asked.

"From one of the goth girls from the Crystal Empire." He replied. "I'll have to thank her the next time I see her."

Rarity's turn was next and she levitated the lantern. "Nice story, Bunga. But did I ever tell you about the night that the mannequin came to life and haunted all the costumes?"

"What happened?" Bunga asked.

Rarity gave him a deadpan look in response. "I just told you, darling. A mannequin came to life and haunted all the costumes."

“Of course.” Kyoga commented like it was nothing new to her.

Pinkie Pie squealed and fell backwards onto the floor, pretending to pass out. As fun as this was, an unexpected voice made them all scream once more.

"Hi, everypony."

"Ah!" Everyone inside the room all yelped in fright before recognizing who’s voice that came from. Fluttershy’s. Twilight having arrived alongside Kion, Bunga, Makini, and Spike. turned on the lights of the room as the other’s all got up to see their friend, amazed to actually see her here for a change.

"Fluttershy, what are you doing here? Is everything okay?"

"Everything is fine. In fact, it's more than fine. I've decided to join you in your Nightmare Night festivities."

Rainbow Dash scoffed, "Seriously? You? Out? Tonight?" Rarity nudged her arm to reprimand her for being rude and she needs to show Fluttershy some respect. "I mean…awesome?"

"Every Nightmare Night, I shut myself in my cottage and refuse to come out until morning. But it's just like when I was afraid to sing in front of anypony. If I hadn't given it a try, I never would've found out how much I enjoy it."

"And we'd sure would’ve have been missing out on how great you sang back then.” Beshte complimented to which Fluttershy blushed in response.

"Fluttershy with us on Nightmare Night?" Bunga said with glee as he stood up, "That's Un-Bunga-veilable!"

"Amazing?" Rarity commented. "Why, it's positively the most wonderful news I've heard in ages!"

"I know! It does sound crazy when you put it that way, but it's really happening!" Makini excitedly and happily expressed joy.

Fluttershy couldn't help but blush again and feel further pleased seeing this would bring joy into her friend’s hearts.

Pinkie Pie then hopped around happily, "You can get dressed up in a costume with us and play Nightmare Night games with us and eat candy apples with us!"

"Don't forget the best part." said Applejack while wrapping an arm around Pinkie Pie, "Goin' through my family's corn maze! Makuu added some spooky additions, although he did promise it was nothing too scary not wanting anyone else to be frightened and reminded of him before he became a good leader."

"Oh, right. The maze." Fluttershy said now feeling nervous and edge upon hearing that until Twilight placed a hoof on her shoulder to calm her down.

"Only if you want to." She reminded.

"Oh, I am! I am ready to take on Nightmare Night!"

The rest of the team cheered happily at the news…while Fluttershy cringed and flinched at the sudden loud cheering. Twilight still placing her hoof on her back smiled in return to assure her it’s all good.

"Just practicing." Fluttershy returned with a nervous laugh.

No one complained as they knew they have to be patient with her, considering this is her very first NightMare Night, but they knew she was braver than before.

Rarity took Fluttershy to her hometown boutique, which had the perfects selection of costumes of everyone to get in on the holiday. She searched every rack trying to find the perfect costume for Fluttershy, who stood behind her.

"Mummy? No. Headless pony? No. Vampire fruit bat? Ugh, definitely no. You see, Fluttershy, the beauty of Nightmare Night is that you don't have to dress up as something scary."

"So, what's costume?" Fluttershy asked.

Said pony is already in her costume, she wore a long aqua blue dress with a tail-fin on the end of it with purple shells on her chest, joined together by an purple ribbon wrapped around the dress and her waist along with purple sea-shell shoes on her front hooves.

"I'm the Little Mermaid, at least what I would like as a merlady." She replied. "I mean I know it's not quite how they did it in the book or the movie adaption but other artists can do different ideas as long as they don't stick out and pale to true beauty. But anyways, what you see before is a look of myself in what I would like if I was the Little Mermaid myself. Bold, cool, headstrong, daring, and very charming if I do say so myself." She went back to rummaging through the rack and found one costume, "Ooh! Yes. This one will look gorgeous on you. Period costumes are all the rage this year." She handed her friend the costume, but she did not look satisfied. "What? No good?"

"What if we encounter something terrifying and need to get away quickly? All those layers could slow me down, or worse, make me trip!"

"Oh. I never... considered that. Never fear!" she looked through the options once more and found one she was especially proud of, "Ooh, now this is a real stunner!" she pulled out a simple silk dark dress and an extravagant mask with her magic. The mask was blue with feathers.

"I call it "Masquerade"! Just a simple black dress underneath but with this ornately decorated mask!" she levitated the object near Fluttershy's face but gently shoved it away.

"A mask?"

"No?"

"They can just be so difficult to see out of."

"Yes, but this one has eye holes." Rarity demonstrated by placing the mask over her face.

"W-What about being able to see what's to the left or right of me?"

"I suppose your vision would be somewhat obscured.” Rarity accepted her wishes none of the less. “It's your first Nightmare Night out and about, and we do want you to be comfortable."

"What if I just wear the dress?"

"Oh, sure, dear. That's... fine." Rarity worked up all of her will power not to argue at the idea. She instead smiled and allowed Fluttershy to enter the changing room to put the dress on.

"It's so plain, it's frightening." she said to herself before sucking in her lips. She spun around to see all of her friends already in their costumes.

Ono's costume is a grayish-blue body suit with bat-like wing and a pair of yellow pilot glasses with the left lens cracked. while Bunga wore a blue hedgehog outfit with large spiky hair on the back, white gloves, and red shoes. Kyoga wore a black sleeved leotard with a blue cloak covering her body. Rainbow Dash was dressed as a astronaut complete with a white suit and helmet while Fuli wore a yellow jacket costume complete with a stinger attached on the back.

Pinkie Pie is dressed like a lion with yellow face paint all over her body and a red wig as a mane. A personal choice on her part since she loves to put on face paint on a day like today. Applejack wore a brown fur costume to resemble a lion's from every part of his costume on his body complete with painted on whiskers. Beshte wore a large black furred and muscular gorilla suit with gray muscular skin on the chest.

Twilight' is dressed like a ancient warrior complete with yellow and red colored gladiator armor while Kion wore a black and brown catsuit with brown boots and a mask with white tufts of hair on the side, black gloves, red bandana, and a silver belt buckle with the big letter K on it.

Rarity's eyes sparkled at the sight of them. "Oh, my! Look at all of you! My costumes fit you to a T!"

"Hoo-wee, we're gonna have the best time!" Applejack cheered.

"No kidding!" Bunga stated in agreement while accientally sending spikes flying across the walls in her shop which one ended up shattering a nearby window in the process much to Rarity's annoyance. "Oops. My bad."

"Good thing I didn't bring my staff tonight." Makini expressed in relief due to one of the wings now sporting a hole in one of them to which Rarity was quick to replace instantly. "Thanks."

"Any time, darling."

Fluttershy stepped out of the dressing room, now wearing her long elegant black dress. The others studied her wardrobe choice and were quite puzzled by what exactly she was supposed to be.

"Hey, Fluttershy, where's your costume?” Rainbow curiously asked.

"I'm wearing it." Fluttershy demonstrated her simple assumable, smiling sweetly. But the others were still skeptical on what exactly her theme was.

Pinkie Pie gasped in realization, "I get it! You're a robber escaping into the night!" she said, but Fluttershy shook her head. "You're a ninja escaping into the night!" Pinkie asked again, while doing karate poses, but received the same reply. "You're black licorice escaping into the night!"

"Close. I'm going to a masquerade ball. Without the mask."

If Fluttershy had not said like that then they wouldn’t have gotten it. But truthfully weren’t surprised given that Fluttershy wouldn't want to try on something to what they are wearing but they thought she would be a little more creative than this.

“That’s nice. But I do think it could use something else. Let’s see. What have we got here?” Twilight commented as observed the dress and got an idea of how to give her that creative spark. “Ah.” Using her magic, she levitated a Dracula cape from a nearby clothing rack and tied it gently around Fluttershy's neck. The cape was black with a red undertone and short enough for her not to get caught in anything. Next, she added long red gloves along with a matching black rose to go over one of her ears, along with a red cap over her head. Finally, she added an elegant black sash around her dress with red roses decorated on it. Once she was done she led Fluttershy to a nearby mirror so she can see how much better her costume now looks.

"Now, you're the infamous vampire bandit." Twilight remarked while feeling it suits her friend a lot more now something that her awe-inspired friends can agree on from their smiles alone.

And so, the fun began. Both kingdoms were all bursting with NightMare Night excitement in their veins, where they are all greeted to stands of candy and treats around every corner, children and adults all in their costumes, with some playing jump scares on one another, each and every one of them taking it in good humor. All while Princess Luna herself soars the skies watching very proudly with how more flourished the holiday is compared to last year.

Amongst the crowd are the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club who took the opportunity to dress up like other various animals in the Pride Lands. Apple Bloom is dressed like a tiger, Scootaloo of course is dressed like a cheetah courtesy of one of her big sister idols Fuli, Sweetie Belle is dressed like a zebra.

Mtoto is dressed like his idol Beshte, Kwato is dressed like Fuli, Kambuni is dressed like Ono, Shakku us dressed like Kion, while Gumba is dressed like Bunga much to his annoyed displeasure and the former's delight. Of all days for Gumba to play Bunga because he was last it had to be today for him.

While the others were either playing games, winning prizes and candy, or laughing at the jump scares, Fluttershy stood idly by watching from the sidelines. Even though she had nothing to be afraid of she just couldn't get herself to enjoy the festival. The pony suddenly gasped when she felt Pinkie Pie's hooves on her shoulder.

"Come on, Fluttershy! You're missing all the fun!"

The two headed to where their friends played the pin the horn on NightMare Night game. Rainbow Dash was next, with her blindfold on she placed the horn very close to the top. Once she removed the blindfold she smiled confidently.

"Good luck beating that, Fluttershy!"

"Go Fluttershy!" Makini cheered.

Fluttershy fiddled with her hooves hesitant to take part of this game, "Well, um, it's just that…"

“...what is it?” Kion asked with concern.

"What's wrong?" Makini also asked.

"It's just, if I'm blindfolded and somebody were to leap out in front of me, I'd kick them away and they'd hit themselves against a wall."

The others blinked twice, not saying a word. Fluttershy did have this defensive reflex where she would fly by, punch, or kick someone whenever she gets spooked and someone getting hurt is the last thing the Guard really needs to deal with today.

"I'm sure it wold be quite painful for said somebody." Makini answered honestly.

"That's fine, darling." Rarity said kindly, "You don't have to do anything you don't want to."

"We're just glad you're here." said Twilight, "Why don't we go find another game we can play?"

Pinkie Pie waved her hand up, jumping in place like a student asking her teacher if she could speak. "Oh! Oh, I have another one I know you'll love! Bobbing for apples!"

The pony dragged all of her friends to where friends and families were bobbing for apples on several buckets of water with both red and green apples inside the tubs. It surely harmless game and Fluttershy was just about ready to join in the fun…that is, until she saw that one of the folks wearing a scary mask startled one person who had just rose up his head from the water, causing him to scream and drop the apple. The two only proceeded with laughing. Fluttershy didn't find it funny if it were her instead, and no doubt she would cause a great big mess if that happened. She looked down at her reflection in the water and the apples popping out.

Bunga was the first to take notice of it. "Fluttershy, what's wrong?"

"It's just that, um... What happens if, when my head is deep down in the water, some kind of scary monster appears? How would I even hear to know I was under attack?"

Once again, the others blinked twice with Fuli and Kyoga rolling their eyes with the latter face palming herself upon seeing that this is starting to get hard already for Fluttershy to get comfortable with the holiday itself.

"Time for candy!" Pinkie Pie said before somersaulting away to keep the upbeat mood of the holiday going.

"It is?" Fluttershy asked feeling confused now.

“Oh yeah!” Bunga cheered and pumped his fists up ready for what he sees as the best part of the holiday. “Time for the good stuff!”

In no time at all, Pinkie Pie came back with several home-made bags decorated with images of her friends, each drawn in crayon. "I made candy bags. Each bag has been made with each of you in mind, complete with each of your favorite candies! You know what they say: You can never have enough candy on NightMare Night!"

"Ha! Awesome!" Rainbow said as quickly she took her bag, which indeed had all of her favorite candies inside of it along with everyone else.

Well, all but Fluttershy, who was insisted by Pinkie Pie to take it. "Here. Take it. Take it! What are you waiting for?"

"Well, it's just... What if when I'm eating one of these chewy taffies, my mouth becomes glued shut and I can't scream for help?"

Pinkie Pie blinked twice and gently took the bag away from Fluttershy so she wouldn't have to worry about such a thing happening. The others, who were already eating their candies, decided to stop just so she won’t feel left out. Seeing this had Fluttershy feel instant remorse for it.

"Oh, goodness. We've only just started to celebrate Nightmare Night together, and I'm already taking all the fun out of it, aren't I?" Fluttershy dropped her shoulders in disappointment, only to have Beshte friendly and gently nudge her in comfort.

"Come on Fluttershy, don't say that." He said with sympathy.

"You're not taking out all of the fun." Bunga commented, only to receive another slap to the back of the head from Fuli. "Ow! Hey!"

"Just, like, ninety per—" Rainbow Dash was interrupted when Twilight threw a dandy wrap at her head. "…Some of it."

"I really wanna do this. But there's just so many things that terrify me about tonight. I know it's not all real but I couldn't possibly predict what might upset me."

Twilight gave it some thought until another idea crossed her mind. "Unless… you were the one doing the scaring!"

"That's a great idea!" Kion approved of it already.

Rainbow Dash arched an eyebrow, "Her scaring us?" She busted out laughing at the idea.

And so did Bunga as he too joined in on the laughter. “Ha! The day that happens is the day I attend to one of her tea parties.”

Both he and Rainbow found it very hard to believe that someone like Fluttershy, could actually pull it off. They slowly stopped their laughing once they found that it is not getting any laughs.

"Oh. You're being serious?"

“As in dead serious?”

Twilight rolled her eyes at both Rainbow and Bunga's remarks before turning back to Fluttershy. "The thing you hate is being scared, but if you're the one doing the scaring, then…"

"Then I can help you all have fun and I can still be a part of Nightmare Night!" She smiled with delight thinking this might be the way to go.

“You up for it?” Kion asked just to make sure she is.

"I think I do! And I don't want to get ahead of myself, but I think I have the perfect idea for how I'm gonna do it!"

Pinkie Pie squealed in delight, "Really? Oh, this is so exciting!"

"Me too!" Fluttershy started making a spooky voice before slowly backing away, "Meet me at my cottage in an hour." she briefly reverted back to her normal voice, "Oh, I'm excited to see everybody soon!" She flew on ahead back to her home so she can make the preparations bursting with excited adrenaline kicking in her energy leaving her friends interested in finding out what she has in store for them.

"You really think she can scare us?" Rainbow asked, still feeling skeptical about the idea.

“Never underestimate even the kindest and quietest of the bunch.” Fuli reminded. “If you’re not careful or have the willpower to withstand her stare then you might as well put your money where your mouth is.”

“Yeah, and trust me…” Ono added in agreement while shuddering at the memory. “…you don’t want to get on her bad side especially since she managed to talk down a giant dragon, tame her misbehaving critter friends, and caused a hungry hawk to fly for the hills. She’d be as mad as a hippo with a hernia.”

“Ooh…I’d quiver with FEAR!” Rainbow returned with a malicious smirk that freaked Ono out upon seeing it.

“Please don’t look at me that way!” Ono pleaded of her when she menacingly approaches her. “Hapana! Help!” He screamed she made a charge at her like she was going to pounce him before quickly retreating to the nearby bucket of water with apples inside it.

Rainbow laughed at his misfortune while Beshte moved to fish him out with his snout before moving to check up on him to make sure he is okay.

“You all right, Ono?”

“Affirmative.” He coughed up water he accidentally swallowed during his brief moment of panic thanks to Rainbow’s quick prank on him who simply shrugged and proudly smiled with no regrets doing it.

Just as Fluttershy instructed, the group arrived at her cottage in an hour thanks to the magic of teleportation from Twilight, Kion, and Kyoga combined. Like every Nightmare Night the house itself was quiet and empty given her own personal tradition but they know that Fluttershy and her critter friends are all inside waiting for them to come in.

“Okay…so where’s the part I’m supposed to be scared.” Bunga asked before he and his friends spotted the wooded red painted arrow near one of the trees pointing towards her home.

“I guess we’ll find out.” Was all Fuli could say in return before they all followed the arrows accordingly.

They led to inside the cottage where they come up towards a wooden table in the center of the room with various wooden chairs and cups of tea prepared for them, complete with misty fog and darkness surrounding them to try to give that spooky theme. While spooky but not really scary. Fog moved around their feet and Bunga started to tremble a bit. Fog always was a scary touch especially when surrounded in a pitch black environment. A voice called out from throughout the houese, echoing all around them.

"Welcome to Fluttershy's tea party!" The voice said, unquestionably Fluttershy’s in her attempt to be scary.

"Did she just say "tea party"?" Rainbow asked, both visibly confused and unimpressed correctly feeling that Fluttershy is not off to a great start here.

“Yep.” Kyoga nodded equally unimpressed.

“It sounds like it's a scary tea party?" Twilight said, trying to make the most of the situation and give Fluttershy some confidence. Still, even if it wasn't what they expected they hoped that Fluttershy would somehow surprise them.

"Then why doesn't it feel like one?" Makini asked trying not to sound discouraged about this.

"Have a seat. Don't be scared of what awaits you." said the spooky Fluttershy. They all took a seat around the table waiting patiently to see what Fluttershy had planned. However, some of them weren't really holding their breath particularly Bunga, Fuli, and Kyoga. "Go on. Pass the sugar."

“Are you following this?” Kyoga asked Fuli who shrugged.

“No, but she is trying.” Fuli replied before moving to do what Fluttershy instructed as she found that the sugar bowl is empty.

"Oh, no! There is none! You're a terrible host!"

“Oh, no. What a surprise.” Fuli commented sarcastically to showcase her disappointment at the attempt while Kyoga had to bury a paw in her face to avoid being seen rolling her eyes.

"Rarity, put your coat on!" the spooky Fluttershy said once more.

"Why would I do that?" The unicorn asked in confusion.

"You need to cover up because no one has complimented your dressssssss!"

All Rarity could do was frown in response like that is one of her worst fears. Maybe back when she was starting off her career but after all she had seen in the last two years, it is now the least scary thing she could be faced with.

"Pinkie Pie, look to your left and ask your best friend to pass the cucumber sandwiches!"

Pinkie did as Flutterhsy said but was puzzled, "Huh? I can't. There's nobody there."

"That's right. Because she didn't care to show uuuuuup."

Pinkie arched an eyebrow in confusion. "Whaaa?"

"A friend who didn't come through. That must scare you to the coooore."

Even Ono, who at first though he was spooked, only ended up face palming himself it this pitiful attempt.

"Quick, everybody, look behind you!" from the tress dangled pieces of cardboard with drawings of random characters that Fluttershy had drawn herself. None of the images looked scary.

"Uh, what are those?" Ono asked.

"They're unplanned guests. Your woooorst nightmare. You don't have enough food for them!"

Nobody said anything because truthfully this was all just too cringe worthy for their taste. It was clear what she was trying to do but truthfully it’s just not rattling their cages in the slightest. Nobody even flinched when a toy cat suddenly landed on the table and fell to the ground. The toy was moving and meowing.

"Oh, no! There's a tiny kitten that needs a home! But you are over-scheduled right now. You don't have time to help!" The Team was silent for a moment before Fluttershy spoke up again, "I said, "You don't have time to help!" This should appear to scare you!"

They looked around and saw that the voice was coming from right nearby as they spotted her head appearing from the shadows from the back of the room. Once she realized her cover was blown Fluttershy emerged from the shadows and showed herself to them seeing that the attempt is a complete failure.

"Didn't work, hu?" She asked, lowering her ears in disappointment.

"Sorry, Fluttershy. Not even Bunga and Pinkie were scared." Makini sheepishly replied.

"Guess showing up to a party and everybody be extremely disappointed in you wasn't upsetting enough?"

"It was a really good try.” Kion commented as he stood up from her chair.

"But the scares at Nightmare Night are of an entirely different nature." Rarity added.

"But it was really creative, though." Twilight added in an attempt to support her friend. "I never would have thought of... all this."

As one of the cardboard drawings fell to the ground Fluttershy realized that she was only fooling herself. She just couldn't be a part of NightMare Night and maybe she shouldn't even have tried to begin with.

"Oh, I'm just not cut out for this. Just go on without me."

Rarity gasped at the very idea. "Oh, no. We couldn't possibly."

"You have to. You've all been looking forward to tonight all year. I can't ruin it for you."

"You're not ruining anything." Beshte said while shaking his head. “We don't even have to go back to the festival just because you don’t want to. As long as we’re all together having a good time that’s what really matters."

"And just because we haven't tried everything doesn't mean we should stop trying." Makini added in agreement.

But Fluttershy shook her head, "No, it's okay. I really want you all to have fun. I'll just go back home and curl up with a good book. It's how It spend every Nightmare Night. Please go. I'll be fine."

With that, she opened her front door and allowed her equally and friends to leave but not without exchanging sad looks of their own feeling sympathy for her in return.

After a brief silence, Pinkie Pie spoke up upon exiting the cottage. "Eh, it's funny. I actually thought she had an idea for something really scary for a second there."

"She definitely tried her hardest." Applejack added.

“Maybe she just needs to try harder next time.” Ono suggested.

Both Kion and Twilight gave one last look back at their ashamed and timid friend before moving to respectfully honor her wishes as they were the last of the group to leave her home deciding that it was best that she needed her space to think. Neither of them felt good about it, but still pressed forward onwards.

At the same time a certain princess flying by couldn’t help but notice the troubles the timid Pegasus is facing with in regards to the holiday before flying on over there once the Guard had took their leave with the hopes that there is something she can do to help her out much like Twilight did for her last year.

Inside the cottage, Fluttershy hugged her body, sighing sadly. "I did try my hardest." she said. She felt something move underneath her cape, revealing to be Angel Bunny who was with her the whole time. He wagged his little paw at her not wanting her to give up yet.

"Or… maybe not." I suppose I could have tried something a little scarier." Angel smiled in agreement which got Fluttershy feeling more determined to try harder. "You're right! I've been taking baby steps! I think it's time for grown up ones! I don't suppose you have any ideas how I could do that?"

The little rabbit rubbed his paws together and growled mischievously for whatever he had in mind was going to be good.

"And if you don't mind, dear Fluttershy..." Luna's voice spoke to her as she appeared inside the cottage from behind much to her sudden surprise. "...perhaps I could spare a few tricks myself you could use."

"Really, Princess Luna?"

"Yes..."

Fluttershy leaned in close for what they both have in mind as they whispered it into both ears where she proceeded to take in their advice one at a time...

Back at the festival, The Lion and Pony Guard continued to honor Fluttershy's wishes and enjoy the night. The group was heading towards the haunted corn maze that Applejack's family had made for the festival. It was just as the name depicted; a large maze made out of corn decorated with various NightMare Night decorates like ghosts and glowing jack-o'-lanterns.

"Everypony's linin' up for the corn maze, y'all! Let's go!" Applejack took the lead with the others close behind.

"Oh, yeah! I can't believe we're finally doin' this!" Spike commented in excitement. At the entrance stood a hooded figure. The stranger blocked their path and removed his hood revealing a large horse head. The group screamed in terror before immediately laughing. The figure removed the horse's head, revealing to be none other than Makku.

"Happy NightMare Night, Lion and Pony Guard!” He greeted with a mean-looking yet teasing grin. “Hope the corn maze is scary enough for you all."

“We’ll see.” Twilight returned with an equally similar grin. “Depends if you did enough to scare the fearless of the bunch.” She gestured to herself, Kion, Bunga, and Kyoga.

“I think you’ll be surprised of what’s ahead of you.” He presented a realistically looking and severed crocodile head right in front of them making the rest of the group scream. “Real looking, isn’t it?”

“Yep.” Kion nodded as the crocodile leader allowed them to go in one by one. “Just try not to get too carried away with the scaring, okay?”

“Of course, cub. If it was like the Savannah Summit I’d sure be cut deep by that comment.” His scales started bleeding which unnerved the lion cub…until he presented the bottle of fake bottle along with a small scale he used to hide the bottle with his tail.

“Fair enough.” Kion nodded at with him respect before he and Twilight moved to enter the maze last.

"It's a good thing Fluttershy isn't here because she would never be able to handle this!" Rainbow Dash commented as they walked inside the maze.

“Yeah!” Bunga agreed with a laugh. “Imagine how scared silly she would be if she were here?!”

“Bunga!” Fuli scolded. “That’s very rude of you!”

“But it’s true.” Bunga defended while flinching as if he’s expected to get slapped on the back of the head again. “Aren’t you going to slap me on the back of the head?”

“I’m not going to slap you?” Bunga looked on still confused and unsure whether to believe her or not. “What? You don’t think I have a sense of humor?”

Bunga wiped the sweat off of his forehead in response before getting slapped on the back of the head.

“Ow! Hey!”

Fuli smirked. “It’s no fun if you know it’s coming.”

At the back of the pack the Leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard both walked together, Twilight looked on having second thoughts about leaving Fluttershy alone to which Kion took notice of.

“You okay, Twilight?” Instantly he figured out why. “Still thinking about Fluttershy are you?”

“Yes. Maybe we could have done more to help her out instead of leaving her alone like that.”

“Me too.” Kion agreed never one to leave a friend behind even with good reasons. “But we both agreed that it is for the best. I mean if there was a chance to help her out and overcome her fear of the holiday I would take it. But the question is how and what?”

“I don’t know.” Suddenly something hit her on the back of the head. "Ow! Hey!" She looked around and found a baobab fruit had just hit her in the back of head.

“What is it…?” Kion asked before seeing what it was. “Bunga!

“Of course.”

“I mean I get that he’s never one to pass down an opportunity to play this game but now of all…” Suddenly he too is hit with one too. “Ow! Okay Bunga, that’s not funny!” They both turned their heads towards where it came from only to be ambushed by multiple fruits flying towards them.

“What in the Pride Lands?”

“What kind of game is he playing? Dodge-ball? Because this is not fair play.”

“I don’t…Ow! Quit it!” They both turned their heads to see it actually come from a mysterious creature throwing them in their direction, not Bunga like they initially thought.

“Okay that’s it!” Twilight lit her horn and sent the many fruits that being pelted at both her and Kion away with her magic. With her glare and flaring horn still directed at their mysterious attacker. “Explain yourself!”

Said figure did as told before both her and Kion’s eyes widen in surprise once they got a good look of who was trying to attack them leaving them speechless.

“What…?”

“You…!”

Elsewhere…

"Hey, where are Kion and Twilight?" Bunga asked, realizing the two were nowhere around them. “Did they suddenly decide to go a different direction?”

“Most likely, Little B.” Beshte replied. “Probably just wanted to explore the maze a little more.”

"No harm in that." Makini agreed.

“Even if that means running it more dead ends?” Ono inquired finding it odd himself especially when this is both Twilight and Kion they’re talking about.

“Well if you’re so worried about them, feel free go looking for them.” Kyoga pointed out while giving him the gesture that he’s free to do so. “But kindly don’t tell us what’s coming our way.”

“Oh…” Rainbow commented with delight. “…so miss fearless wants to get in on the scaring action by not taking the easy way out?”

“No, because if anything from what I heard about this place, nothing is going to scare me, and if someone is trying to go that way, they better try harder.”

"Let's get movin', bet we'll run into them somewhere." Applejack said as she led the way. The group continued on their way, completely unaware that something was walking behind them. Pinkie Pie felt a presence and spun around, gasping in horror, making the others turn around in equal shock.

A large mummified pony appeared before them, towering over waving his hoofs, "Boooo… Eeyup."

The team all laughed once they realized it was only Big Mac before continuing on their way. So far the maze was a real hoot, but that was only the tip of the iceberg. Suddenly, Rarity head crunching sound beneath her feet, which only increased and increased as the others walked in her direction. The unicorn slowly came to a stop, listening to the crackling noise.

"What. Is. That. Sound?"

Pinkie Pie was shaking as she slowly came to a stop. She looked down and saw what was beneath her. "It looks like... bones!"

"Bones?!" Makini flinched when she ended up stepping on one. "Yikes!"

The group screamed in terror at the sight of hundreds of broken bones beneath them. They looked so real it was truly terrifying. However, Rainbow Dash squatted down and examined the so called pony remains of victims and rolled her eyes.

"Looks like a bunch of dried sticks painted white to me."

"Hey, try to keep up the illusion, would ya?" Applejack said, making the Pegasus pony stand up and shake her head. And here she thought this was scary. But the night was still young.

Rarity, Spike and Kyoga made a left turn and walked slowly into a deep dark cave. Once inside the light disappeared and all they could see was darkness.

"Uh, Rarity? Could you give us some light, please?"

Rarity complied and lit up her horn to see where they were. The small bit of blue light shone all around, revealing that the group was not alone, but accompanied by an assortment of disembodied eyeballs, teeth, along with disembodied heads of various crocodiles Makuu included, with eyes rolled back and blood dripping from his lips.

“Mmm.”

After a good scream the team ran out of the cave, laughing all the way at the scare they had just experienced. Pinkie Pie and Bunga were the last two to walk out, both feeling creeped out by the scene, even though they knew it wasn't real.

"Ewwwww!"

"I can't believe Kion and Twilight missed that!" Bunga said in between laughs.

“Where the heck could they be?” Ono wondered as he flew up to try to get a good look. “Whoa!” But suddenly he felt a sudden whoosh knocking him out of the air. “What the…?”

"Agh! What was that?" Applejack spun around and found nothing. Her ear twitched at the sound of something whooshing from behind them, almost as if something had just ran past them in a fast pace.

"Don't you know?" Spike asked, already getting scared again for real this time.

In all honesty, she didn't. She was the one who helped plan this whole thing, but that little feature she was not familiar with. Unless Makku did something without telling her. "Uh, o-of course I do. It was, uh…"

"Then what is it?!" Makini questioned sounding like she is starting to panic for real this time.

The group instinctively huddled together at the sound of a ghostly moan surrounding them. "Kion? Twilight, is that you?" Applejack asked, her voice shaking in fear, "If it is, it ain’t funny!"

“Oh come on!” Fuli rolled her eyes again. “Like they would ever dream of trying to scare us like this? I mean if it was Rainbow Dash then yes.”

“Yeah, two problems with that theory, Fuli…” Rainbow interjected. “…One, they wouldn’t. And two, how could this be me if I’m standing RIGHT HERE!”

The moans became louder and seconds later they saw three glowing white creatures, floating before them, moaning loudly right in front of them. Ghosts, not just any fake ghosts, real ones.

Fuli scoffed and approached them with no fear in his heart. “Seriously? This is one of the big scares of the night. More fake ghosts?”

Kyoga moved to join in on confronting these ghosts. “Ha, ha, very funny Twilight but you can come out of the blankets now. You too Kion!” She moved to look underneath the ghosts and found neither Kion nor Twilight there. "Huh?"

“What the…”

One of the ghosts gained up on them, moaning even louder than before thus freaking both girls out while everyone else quickly ran away as fast as they could away from them through the corn maze leaving them behind to fend for themselves.

“What the hay is this?! I thought ghosts like this aren’t real!” Ono asked Applejack while flying for his life.

"Me too! But they sure look real to me!" Makini exclained as she fled.

"I don’t know!"

“Hapana! Fine time not to have the whole guard by our side!”

Everyone ran as fast as they could but the ghosts were still hot on their trail. Rarity held the helms of her dress in order to run properly, but she still ended up accidentally tripped on her own costume. Seeing this, Spike quickly rushed back to help her back up.

"Fluttershy had a point with the layers on the dress."

The two ran to catch up with the others. The group ran faster and faster towards a spooky looking tree with a glowing trunk.

Applejack looked back to see just how far they were from the creatures, only to fall into a hole, with each and every one of her friends following suit accidentally. The group groaned before sighing in relief once they realized they had lost the ghosts and then stood up as they looked around to their current surroundings.

"What is this? Is it a tunnel? Where does it lead?!" Rarity frantically asked. But no sooner than she asked it they heard the sound of a rock moving. The hole they had fallen into was now sealed shut once a stone covered their only exit. "Which way are we supposed to go now?!" She asked turning to the county pony in the badgermole costume.

"Uh, I don't know! I don't know what's goin' on!"

Rainbow grunted as she tried to at least push the giant boulder out of the way alongside Beshte. "What do you mean? Didn't you help plan this?"

Before Applejack could answer they heard what sounded like a chair creaking. In the corner of the cave there is a light from a hole above, meaning that’s their one way out, and underneath the light was the familiar silhouette of Granny Smith sitting calmly while rocking the chair.

Applejack gave a sigh of relief upon seeing this. "Whew. There's Granny Smith. Not that I was ever scared, 'cause I wasn't. I'm a pretty good actress when I wanna be." She calmly approached her grandmother, not even bothering to wipe the nervous sweat from her brow, and gently shook the elderly pony awake.

"Granny?"

"Granny Smith? It's us Applejack and her friends!" Makini chimed in.

But Granny did not reply…on account of her skeleton head had just popped right off and rolled down onto the ground, stopping at Applejack's feet.

"AHHHHHHHH!!!!"

Both Applejack and Makini ran off in terror at the sight and her friends followed suit. If anything, a skeleton of a beloved family member is definitely frightening and traumatizing to see. There was no telling what to make out of it, but none of them wanted to stick around to find out. The group made a stop once they were in safe distance away, all taking the time to catch their breathes from all of the panting and sweating along with their hearts racing like they just ran their fastest sprint times yet.

"Applejack, didn't you know about any of this?!" Ono exclaimed already horrified.

"Alright, I got to admit I didn't know about any of this, but maybe they're just tryin' to make it interestin' for me, too! I'm sure Granny Smith or Big Mac is behind this."

But just when she was feeling more at ease she heard the voice of her grandmother muffled from above them. They were right underneath the maze, particularly the area where they had seen the numerous eyeballs. Granny held a lantern while trying to scare the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Lion Guard Fan Club with her spooky tales.

"Are those peeled grapes or eyeballs starin' at ya from beyond the grave?" the elderly pony cackled like a witch and Big Mac came in, stomping like a mummy.

"Eeyup."

The Crusaders and the Lion Guard fan club playfully screamed at the show, but underneath Applejack was now paralyzed in fear, her teeth chattering.

"That's what we were supposed to do! I don't know why we're down here! This is really scarin' me now!"

Pinkie Pie and Bunga both hugged each other close together with all of their teeth chattering.

“Now come on.” Beshte said trying to get everyone to calm down. “Maybe we’re all just getting a little too jumped up with these scares. I’m sure maybe Makuu got a little too carried away with the added scares.”

“Maybe. But how could he and his crocs manage the flying ghosts back there?!” Rainbow pointed out still not buying that theory.

“Maybe he scared the little birdies into intimidation?” Bunga suggested through half-nervous laughs in an attempt to push down his peaking fear levels.

"And I'm sure he summoned whatever the heck that is?!" Makini pointed to something rather unsettling approaching them.

Suddenly the ground beneath them began to shake to which everyone else felt the same happen to them, followed by the sound of stomping large feet. The group huddled together as the sounds became louder and stronger. They could see a shadow moving within the cave, coming closer and closer before revealing itself once it reached the light. It was a beast down on all fours with green scaly skin, red webbings and a large mouth of sharp teeth. The monster roared at the team, its breath creating a wind that caused their hair and costumes to bellow against the wind causing shadowy bats lurking from the shadows in the caved ceiling to emerge from their hiding spots with dark blue glowing eyes and come their way.

"How did that get down here?!" Pinkie cried out in fright.

“You sure that’s something Makuu is capable of doing, Bunga?” Ono exclaimed in both terror and exasperation.

“Nope! RUN!” Bunga screamed at the top of his lungs and the group ran off away from the creature that came after them. Since the beast itself is so enormous, no one even dared to stop to try to fight it. Not even the bravest and strongest of the bunch.

The group ran and ran before they suddenly found themselves stuck in a large spied web. They all struggled to break free but to no avail. The more they struggled the sticker the substance became.

"I can barely move!" Ono exclaimed while struggling.

"Me neither!" Rainbow commented as she tried to pull her limbs off but only got even more stuck, "It's like glue!"

"Oh! It's coming right towards us!" Makini exclaimed in great worry.

They heard the roaring of the beast coming closer and closer, its mouth wide open ready for the attack. Instantly, a wave of magic managed to instantly teleport the team out of the web, leaving the beast and the bats to all get tangled up in it instead. The beast broke apart the web, roaring back at them as they ran out.

The group managed to finally exit from the tunnel with both Fuli and Kyoga quick to regroup with them there. Said tunnel turned out to be a dead end with them now on a top of a nearby hill looking over the whole corn maze from above.

“Fuli!”

“Kyoga!”

“Thank goodness you’re both okay!”

“What happened to you both?!”

Ono, Bunga, Rarity, and Applejack all commented in that order to the two still heavily breathing and catching their breath.

But before either of them could explain, they heard the sound of wicked cackling and saw a figure hanging from the tree branches. The figure spread out her large bat wings and flew down towards the group. The group of terrified friends ducked in cover as the creature flew over their heads. The creature was revealed to be a half bat with dark yellow wings ears and glowing red eyes and a dress of darkness with spider webs. The creature hissed, revealing her long sharp fangs before zooming down and ripping the second head of Spike's dragon costume off.

Not only that another figure was seen lurking and flying around in the shadows and ended cutting half of Kion's costume ear and one of his white costume tufts in the process. One with glowing white eyes and a very familiar pair of blue eyes and a ethereal blue mane hanging on the back of the head

Whatever these two creatures were, they had clear intent to hurt them. They both hovered before them, their wings flapping and their silhouettes could be seen perfectly with the full moon shining right behind them, thus showcasing their very frightening appearances even more.

Everyone had never been so terrified before, after everything they had experienced tonight this was truly a frightening scene. All of their bodies shook in place, unsure and too horrified of what to make of any of this.

Suddenly, one of the two creature's frightening expression softened upon looking down at the terror in their eyes, the sweat dripping from their brows and their eyes widened like saucers. The creature gasped, realizing what she had done.

"Oh, my!"

The creature slowly lowered down, stepping out into the light to reveal herself. Her bat-like wings were fake, her ears were fake, and her pink hair was in given a grayer shade to help fit in with her disguise.

"I'm so, so sorry. Can you ever forgive me?" She apologetically asked with a look of remorse and regret.

Everyone all calmed down and loosed their grips on one another as they all got a good clear look of the mastermind in front of them. A reveal that no one could ever expected or guessed not even in a million years.

"Fluttershy?" Bunga had to dump water on his head to make sure this wasn’t all a dream.

"It was you the whole time?!" Rainbow exclaimed in shock.

"Not just her..." Luna's voice spoke to them before she emerged from the shadows too. "...she had some assistance too."

"Princess Luna!" Beshte gasped in shock.

"I can't believe it!" Ono exclaimed with his jaw practically dropping.

“Believe it or not, it’s all real!” A voice called out from above the trees, revealing to be two cloaked figures who leaped down and remove their hoods, revealing to be Kion and Twilight.

“Kion!”

“Twilight!”

Both Ono and Rainbow exclaimed in shock.

“Yep.”

“It’s us!”

“Were you both…?” Applejack asked.

“Not at exactly…at least from the start unlike Princess Luna.” Twilight explained. “It was only when we got into the maze and got ambushed with baobab fruit from a certain someone that we were in on it." She gave the stink eye along with Kion to Angel who simply chuckled in amusement while falling flat on his back laughing.

"If we joined in on the act, we would have figured it out from there." Kion chimed in. "With my Roar and Twilight’s fearlessness in the face of danger you all would have figured it all out too."

Everyone else simply shrugged in agreement.

"Yeah.”

“That’s true.”

Both Applejack and Beshte couldn’t argue with that.

Rarity's eyes were still wide open as a smile slowly appeared on her face. "That… was…"

"THE BEST THING EVER!" Pinkie Pie shouted with glee before smiling. *squee*

"LIKE THE BEST SCARE WE COULD EVER HAVE IMAGINED!" Makini also shouted with glee while smiling...and *squeeing*

Rainbow Dash started flying around Fluttershy, bursting with excitement over the revelation. "It was way more terrifying than the most terrifying thing I could have thought of!"

"You out-nightmared the scariest part of the corn maze!" Applejack complimented.

"No kidding!" Bunga added while pumping his fists up in the air. "And it was Un-Bunga-veilable!"

“I’ll say!” Beshte laughed. “I don’t think I’ve ever run that much before in my life!”

“I don’t think I experienced a truly scary and fun at the same time!” Kyoga added in agreement.

"How did you do all this?!" Ono asked, wondering just how Fluttershy managed to execute it all flawlessly.

"After I left, I realized that I wasn't ready to give up on Nightmare Night. So I asked Granny Smith if I could try to make the maze even scarier for my friends and with some additional help from Nightmare Moon along with an army of magical bats it made the scare even more enchantingly scary." Luna smiled and nodded in response to confirm that this is indeed true.

“Did you really?” Beshte asked already amazed.

“Yep.” She nodded just when the ghosts that chased after them earlier appeared once more, revealing to have been Fluttershy's bird friends hiding underneath glow in the dark bed sheets. The bunny in a Dracula cape hoped onto her shoulder.

"After Angel got Kion and Twilight out of the way he was the scary figure that kept scurrying after you in the maze. In addition, we had a couple more who ended up sticking around to face off against the ghosts."

Angel bowed before the audience as all eyes turned to both Fuli and Kyoga upon knowing they were last seen with them while everyone else ran off.

“Fuli?”

“Kyoga?”

Both Applejack and Rarity spoke in surprise they were in on it too.

“No…at least until we found out what the ghosts really were.” Fuli confessed. “So we had to stand by and let things run it’s course so Kyoga and I didn’t spoil the act too since of course we're not the kind of girls that get scared easily.”

“But what about when we were trapped by that spider web?” Ono asked when said spider climbed over Fluttershy's shoulder. “Oh, right! Of course!”

“Fuzzy Legs made the sticky wall that made it difficult for you to see and move." The spider gave a salute, to which Applejack replied with a salute of her own.

“At that moment, I was there to free you all in time and was able run alongside you with Fuli in order to keep up the act from there.” Kyoga explained.

"What about that monster from the cave?" Bunga asked.

Kyoga chuckled as she shook her head. “Silly Bunga. There’s only one animals big enough for the job and it happens to be another friend of Fluttershy’s. Her bear friend Harry who appeared and roared in Bunga’s face causing his hair to stand up tall.

“And I got to say, that was very impressive.” Kion complimented giving credit where credit is due.

"Totally!" Makini moved to hug her friend to congratulate her on a job well done.

"You have to do this every year!" Pinkie suggested excitedly and the others nodded and said “yes.” in agreement. However, Fluttershy didn't agree to the idea.

"We could celebrate Nightmare Night together every year." She said as she removed the fake bat wings from her real ones and took off the fake bat ears, "But the truth is I really don't want to."

"You don't?!" Pinkie asked in disbelief.

"But you've done it." Rarity pointed out. "You found a way that we can all have a fabulous time together."

"So what's holding you back?" Makini also asked trying to understand what's eating her this time.

The others wondered by she had come to decide this after all the effort and success she had done in this whole thing. To Fluttershy, it was like the whole experience had taught herself something that she came to realize herself.

"Yes, but I've also realized something. You all may love Nightmare Night and I may be good at being a part of it, but it's no fun for me to see my friends feel like they're in danger, even if I know they're not. I really don't like it. It's just not my cup of tea."

Bunga took out a flashlight and shone it over his face, "Spoooooooooky tea?"

Fluttershy giggled as she shut off the flashlight, "No. Just regular tea. We do lots of fun things together, but I'm afraid this just isn't gonna be one of them. Actually, I'm not afraid. I'm perfectly fine with it. Maybe someday I might change my mind but for now it's probably for the best."

"A wish that everyone of us can absoultely respect for the time being." The night princess commented already approving of it.

"Then we are, too." Twilight said being the first to accept her decision with a proud smile. “As long as you’re happy, we’re happy."

"Couldn’t have said it any better for one of the scariest ponies I know." Kion added in agreement equally proudly of her.

Fluttershy blushed, "Awww, that's so sweet." She then turned to Princess Luna with much needed gratitude to give her. "And thank you Princess Luna. I couldn't have pulled this off masterfully without you."

"For a pony in need of help especially on a night like tonight, it is my absolute pleasure." Luna returned with a humble bow before they all got together for a group hug with each and every one of her friends all still accepting of her even if she’s not the kind of pony who will celebrate NightMare Night like them.

Once the hug ended, Rainbow spoke up, "Before you call it a night tonight, think maybe you can at least stay around for one more fun-filled activity?"

Fluttershy smiled already on board. "Name it!"

The audience of ghosts and goblins cheered as the The Lion and Pony Guard gathered their respected instruments and both Kion and Twilight took the mic to sing. The rest of the Lion and Pony Guard along with Princess Luna stood beside the Lion and Pony Guard leaders, all swaying their hips to the beat and singing alongside the Prince and Princess.

Hex Girls

The audience cheered once the song came to an end and The Lion and Pony Guard all huddled together for yet another group hug with Fluttershy in the center.

While she may not be a Nightmare Night pony she sure knows how to give a good scare and song when she sings and dances. And for her it was one her best night's ever.

Author's Note

Okay, well this sure took a while but it's now finally done, largely due to finding new costume ideas and incoroparting the right characters for this episode but now that that's all settled on the brief recap...

As you can see we have Fluttershy trying out Nightmare Night for once, with little to no luck of fitting in, not even the best encouragement and support from her friends could do it...

...At least until she got into the scaring game and managed to pull off one real doozy with some help from her critter friends.

But sadly, even still this is the way she wants things to be...at least for another year. Who knows? Maybe things will change.

Now with that holiday episode done, it is now time to move back on towards the main plot-line in this season where Janja and his hyenas return to kidnap Zazu for important information next week so be on the look out for that by then as the breather time's over now so time to move on.

Episode 27: The Un-Bunga-veilable Investigation

Episode 27:

The Un-Bunga-veilable Investigation

Ever since she opened her new boutique in Canterlot, it has thrived to the point it has become and an equally busy success on par with her Ponyville boutique. She had already hired a manager for her Canterlot Boutique, Sassy Saddles who despite the rough start has managed to get along swimmingly with her boss and has kept following the rules of Rarity when expected to.

Today, she had just came in through the door with three new gowns in her levitated grasp for her newest collection and latest line. She wasted no time in placing them on the pony-quiens. “Oh, Sassy Saddles.” She cheerfully greeted. "Don’t you just love my new Femme Mystique Chic lone of gowns?”

Sassy Saddles immediately gasped in admiration and awe upon seeing them. “Sequins and sashes, Rarity, they’re exquisite! Where in Equestria di you find the insipiration?”

"Oh, I modeled them after the adventures of Shadow Spade. Her stories are always full of mystery and suspense and, best of all... fabulous costumes!" She explained with emphasis on the last part for obvious reasons.

“They’re perfect! She then noticed Rarity was doing something different to the displays while humming, "What are you doing?"

"Oh, uh, just making some minor adjustments." She blew on one of the dresses and fluffed the feathered collar and adjusted the stand to a few millimeters to the left, "Shadow Spade believes it all comes down to attention to detail. And so do I." using her magic, she adjusted the head piece on one of the outfits, "There! Now it's perfect."

The doors suddenly opened where Rainbow Dash, Bunga, and Ono all walked into the boutique with Rainbow opening the door or more accurately slammed it open due to her accidentally putting in too much strength into it.

"Hey guys, how's it—" Rainbow stopped mid-sentence upon seeing the mess she had made with her entrance. The mannequins all fell to the ground, the dresses alright, and various other items landed onto the ground. Rarity and Sassy Saddles both narrowed their eyes at her, who could only scratch the back of her head in embarrassment and laughed nervously. "My bad."

“And here I thought Rarity was more of the pony prone to these kinds of entrances.” Bunga commented with a laugh much to Rarity’s further annoyance before he and the others helped pick up the mannequins.

"Sorry I messed up your dress thingy." Rainbow apologized while dusting the coat off.

"Nothing we can't fix in a stitch." Sassy quickly assured all is forgiven. “So what brings you all here to Canterlot today?”

“To get some formal attire for Princess Celestia's royal garden opening tomorrow." Ono answered.

“Oh, yes!” Sassy smiled upon hearing of it. “Rumor has it the gardens are especially lush this season. I heard that the Wonderbolts will be kicking things off with an aerial display.”

“You heard right!” Rarity confirmed with a smile. “And both Rainbow Dash and Ono are here to fly with them. So exciting!”

“So Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“It is!” Although excited himself, Ono himself was still feeling a tad nervous inside. “Oh, I really hope it goes well.”

“Of course it will whether we perform or not.” Rainbow quickly assured.

“Why wouldn’t you?” Bunga asked.

“Well…” She moved to reluctantly explain why. “…Technically, we’re not flying. We’re just the lucky Reserves who was called in to be the backup flyers in case a Wonderbolt can't perform."

"Oh, don't be so modest." Rarity shook her head at the very thought. "Out of all the Reserves, you were two chosen."

Rainbow Dash couldn't help but smile at her friend’s encouragement. “It is pretty sweet. And we do get to stay in the castle, hang out with the Wonderbolts, and eat awesome food at the dinner tonight. Speaking of the dinner, you're still coming, right?"

"Heavens, yes!" Rarity smiled as she placed one of her shady hat from her display, "A chance to dress up, be charming and show off my newest femme mystique couture? I wouldn't miss it for all of Equestria." She said while striking another one of her famous poses.

“Me neither.” Bunga stated in agreement. “With so many awesome choices of food to offer, how can I say no to an opportunity like that?”

“Never even in a million years.” Ono replied in a deadpan manner.

“Exactly!”

Ono’s mind now back on the party tomorrow night couldn’t help but think of something bothering him, not out of anxiety but out of disappointment. “I just wish the rest of the Guard could come and join us.”

“Why won’t they?” Sassy Saddles curiously asked.

“Because they are taking the time to get much needed rest after an important meeting with the other leaders.” He explained. “It took place all night and all of the following day just to figure out the best course of action and the following meeting on how to prepare ourselves going forward is sure to go on throughout tonight.”

“About Scar and the Outsiders?”

“Yes.” Given what happened back then, the news is now public knowledge. “And trust me, dealing with the Pride Lands and Equestria most wanted enemy is very difficult given that he always manages to stay two steps ahead of us every time. Just when you think you have the advantage, Scar outsmarts us.”

“Whenever we come up with a great plan, Scar comes up with a better one.” Bunga added.

“Wow. That bad, huh?”

“Quite so, darling.” Rarity nodded before quickly changing the subject. “So enough said, let’s get to work in finding you all the perfect outfits for tomorrow night, shall we?”

“Let’s.” Rainbow said in agreement just when she leads the three on over to her many dresses and suits fit for all sizes and occasions for them to choose from.

36 hours later, the night of the dinner and all of the Guard who could come all dressed formally for the occasion.

Rainbow Dash for once deciding to dress for the occasion, wore a simply yet sparkling red sleeveless gown with gold lightning bolts on her orange and yellow colored ribbons and belt. Rarity wore a white sleeved gown with golden belt and wristbands at the end of her sleeves. Ono wore a yellow tuxedo with a blue bowtie while Bunga wore the sky blue tuxedo with the matching bowtie and top hat with the latter sporting a cane along with a chained watch.

Along the way Bunga was humming a cheery tune while making his way in.

“Bunga? What on earth are you humming about?” Rarity asked.

“A little song and dance I got from watching a movie where this funny guy and his partner talk to him about the perks of being an actor. It goes like this…”

Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee

“Right of course, that movie. The old fashion version or that recently dreadful new remake?”

“The old fashion one, of course! I mean the remake sure did it spot on but the rest of it was just, Ugh. What were the directors thinking when they made that?”

“Apparently just saw it as another cash grab opportunity for their company. I mean if they put much more effort into putting finesse and pizazz into their work it could have turned out just as wonderful as the original along with a handful of their other attempted remakes. After all a well-made movie is like art. Art that allows clothes to have great style just like our outfits here today.”

“You’re right about that! Let’s grab some grub!” Rainbow stated in agreement before eyeing the nearby buffet table which was filled with an assortment of delicious foods and treats to choose from.

Both Rainbow and Bunga wasted no time stuffing their faces with as much food as they can get their hooves and paws on though the former had enough desire for dignity and grace not go hog wild like Bunga. It also helps that the Wonderbolts being here gives her good reason to do so.

When Rarity moved to take her place she caught a whiff of something in the air. "Mm, is that Juniper Phoenix I smell?"

"No, it's broccoli!" Rainbow corrected while chewing on said green vegetable in contrast to Bunga stuffing his into face.

"Yeah, Juniper Phoenix is one of my favorite stallion colognes." A voice was heard. A deep, masculine male voice who happened to be near Rarity when she said it. A blue colored pegasus stallion with wavy gray hair, thus a middle aged pony, and gold colored eyes while wearing an air pilot's uniform and a white scarf around his neck.

"Oh, mine as well." Rarity said, already engaging in a conversation with the stallion. Unbeknownst to her, Rainbow Dash dropped her plate and her eyes were shimmering and gushing with excitement from behind her friend, all while Bunga was looking on curiously while chewing on his food. "It's masculine and yet soft with the barest hint of floral notes and—"

Rainbow Dash rushed over to the unicorn after dropping her plate (to which Bunga of course caught before it could hit the ground), speaking in a hushed tone, "Rarity! Don't you know who this is?!"

"A gentlepony with fabulous taste in colognes and scarves?"

Rainbow briefly face-hoofed herself as she shook her head and flew up to the pony she is talking to. "It's Wind Rider!"

"Wind Who?" Bunga asked after he swallowed his food.

"Wind Rider! He's a living legend. He holds the Wonderbolt record in the Mustang Marathon!"

"Oh! So nice to meet you!" Rarity politely greeted.

The stallion smiled in a charming manner before speaking. "And if I'm not mistaken, you two are the special ponies from the Pony Guard, Lady Rarity and Lady Rainbow Dash, correct?"

Rainbow squealed with glee, "He knows who we are!"

"And you two must be the keen-sighted Ono and the brave Bunga."

“Heck yeah!” Bunga proudly boasted. “Protecters of the Pride Lands and Equestria!”

"It's a real honor to be meeting such heroes." said Wind Rider.

"The honor is all mine!" Rainbow kindly returned all while blushing, unable to reign in her own excitement. "Nopony alive has been able to beat your record Mr. Wind Rider, sir!"

"Well, that was a long time ago. Honestly, I can't believe I still hold the record."

At that moment, two more of the wonderbolts, Spitfire and Misty Fly approached the group.

"Wind Rider, I see you met Rainbow Dash!" Spitfire said. "She's one of our most promising Reserves. She just might beat your record."

"Really now?"

Rainbow could only chuckle nervously at the thought. "Oh, heh, I'm nowhere near as good as you. I mean, I'm fast, but I don't have the endurance to go long distances."

"Ah, don't be modest." Spitfire shook her head at what she was saying. "A little practice and you'll be beating records in no time.” This only made Rainbow feel like she is eating more humble pie than boasting of the very potential within her.

Wind Glider chuckled lightly, "Heh-heh. Well, it's nice to meet you fillies." He said before walking off with his plate. However, Ono arched an eyebrow in his direction as if he got a bad vibe upon seeing some of his expressions during all of that, particularly at the thought of his record being broken.

Rainbow sighed dreamily in his direction. "Not as nice as it is to meet you, sir." She saluted but could barely-contain her over the top gushing. "I can't believe I just met Wind Rider!"

"Yeah, he's coming out of retirement to take the spot of honor in the center of our aerial flower formation tomorrow." Misty Fly added sharing the same excitement as her.

"Really? That's incredible!" She saw Wind Wider kiss Princess Celetia's hoof, while Spitfire and Misty Fly flew off to meet up with more of their fellow wonderbolts. But then her excited smile turned into a disappointed frown. "Guess I'll just watch Wind Rider being awesome from the sidelines... Practice tomorrow is gonna be so boring."

Taking pity for her, Bunga lightly punched her friend in the arm in an attempt to encourage her. “Aw, cheer up, Rainbow! Things could change for the better!” Seeing that she still isn’t cheering up right away he then offered. “I don't suppose we could keep you and Ono company tomorrow?"

Hearing this had Rainbow's attitude flip right back around to being happy and excited. "You could! They always let friends and family come watch practices!"

"I'd be more than happy to be there for you, darling." Rarity also offered all while before taking a sip of her punch.

"Thanks you guys! You're the best!" Rainbow hugged Bunga and then Rarity, only to accidentally splash the punch on her dress. "Oops. Heh, sorry about that."

"Oh, don't fret, darling." The unicorn once more assured. "It's almost impossible to get stains out of silk. But not to worry. I've come prepared!" She levitated a trunk towards her, opened it and in only a few seconds was wearing a new peach colored ball gown before moving to walk on ahead. The fashionista was always prepared for this sort of thing should it happen.

“How does she do it so fast?!” Bunga asked the others while amazed at how quickly she changed herself like that.

Rainbow shrugged her arms while Ono simply shook his head refusing to tell.

“Sorry Bunga. A good magician never reveals her secrets.”

“Aww.”

Later that night…

"That dinner was absolutely divine." Rarity said while she and her friends exited the ballroom and walked down the hallways.

“It sure was.” Bunga said before loosening his belt a little due to eating more than his fair share of the buffet. “Oops, better make some room here.”

The group then spotted Spitfire enter her castle suite. "Ooh, you're staying in the east tower?" Rarity said looking on very intrigued. "Those rooms have the best view of Canterlot!"

"How lucky are we?” Spitfire returned feeling it’s her lucky night. “Well, we better get some shuteye before practice." Spitfire then closed the door behind her and Rainbow Dash flew off to her own room.

"See you guys tomorrow!"

"Good night!"

The next day, Bunga, Ono, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash sat on the bleachers, watching the Wonderbolts practicing their routines. Rarity was applying sunscreen while Bunga watched the whole thing while eating a bag of grubs and drinking a soda. Ono was looking on with focused and studious intent and interest so that he knows exactly of how to properly execute it should it come down to the day he has to perform it given his future with the Wonderbolts.

Rainbow Dash sighed as she watched the ponies fly above her head, "Thanks for keeping me company, you guys. If you weren't here, well, I don't know who I'd be talking to right now." She said, right before Rarity playfully splattered a bit of her sunscreen on Rainbow's nose, making the two giggle.

"Eh, you'd be talkin' to me." Camr from a familiar voice from behind them. At the sight of him had Rainbow immediately blushing before wiping the sunscreen off of her nose.

"Soarin!"

Seeing her reaction made Bungaand Rarity exchange knowing smiles, which only further embarrassed their friend. Though considering the vibe they have with the rest of the Guard it is to be expected of course.

"Rainbow Dash, Spitfire's mom sent a message that she was sick. She had to leave to take care of her." Spitfire said.

Hearing this had both Rainbow and Ono gasping upon hearing it.

“Hapana!”

"Oh, no! I hope her mom's okay!"

"Me too. In the meantime, we need you two to fly in her place."

“Us?” Ono blinked in surprise while Rainbow’s eyes sparkled with glee.

“L-Like, in the actual show?"

"Unless Spitfire comes back, yes." Soarin then looked on equally surprised when Rainbow impulsively hugged him. Realizing what she was doing she stopped herself and saluted to save face.

"I won't let you down, Soarin!" The pony squealed with excitement and flew up into the air. "This is the best thing ever! Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" She ranted while dancing in mid air and sing-songing, "I'm gonna get to fly with Wind Rider and the Wonderbolts, 'cause I'm the bestest and I'm awesome and they know it! Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh…"

Ono looked back and forth between Rainbow and Soarin before shrugging so she can join the former all while Bunga gave a thumb’s up with Rarity smiling in pride for their friends.

The friends watched on in the friends and family booth while watching Rainbow Dash and Ono practice with the Wonderbolts. Bunga stood up and gasped upon spotting Rainbow soaring through the air with Wind Rider. He waved enthusiastically while standing up.

“That’s right Rainbow Dash! That’s right, Ono! Flap those wings! Flap them good!”

Rainbow smiled appreciatively at her friend, not realizing she was flying ahead of Wind Rider, who looked at her like he finds her excitement annoying…or rather envious.

Ono who was flying on trying to keep pace with the Wonderbolts just barely managed to catch a glimpse of said look which briefly sparked concern in the egret’s eyes but not enough to make him lose focus of their current practice in session.

Rarity noticed a female yellow Pegasus pony sit beside her. Said pony is middle aged with a familiar yellow coat coloring, bright red mane and tail, wearing a purple jacket, similar to Kion, Simba, and Mufusa. The unicorn politely greeted her. "Hello there! Friend or family?"

"Family. My daughter's a Wonderbolt."

"You must be so proud."

"I am. She's just like her father, determined and a bit hot-headed." the female pony shielded her eyes from the sun and looked up at the skies. "But, I don't see her up there. Do you know Spitfire?"

At the mention of the name, Bunga spitted out his soda in shock while briefly choking on the grubs he had halfway down his throat. "Excuse me!” He raised a finger before finishing up his coughing to make sure nothing’s still stuck in his throat. Once he was 120% certain he continued looking on in shock. “You're Spitfire's mom?!"

"Yes."

"But--but--but, aren't you suppose to be sick?"

"What?"

This revelation was a real shocker for the friends.

"Spitfire got a note from you saying you weren't feeling well, and she went home to take care of you." Rarity explained.

"I didn't send a note."

"That's so strange." Rarity voiced out, finding this whole situation very suspicious. The three friends all shared confused looks of the fact that Spitfire's mother was right here in front of them and not home with the flu from what Soarin just heard.

Soarin stopped once he spotted the older Pegasus pony, "Stormy Flare? Aren't you supposed to be sick?" Hearing and seeing this had several more of the wonderbolts flew beside him, all silently asking the same question, "'Kay, what's happening?"

"I don't know. But I do know I didn't send my daughter a note."

"Could somepony have sent Spitfire a fake note?" Rarity asked seeing this whole thing starting to unravel as a mystery…a Shadow Spade like mystery.

“But why?” Bunga asked…while taking another sip of his soda.

"Somepony who wanted her out of the show, I suppose." Soarin theorized.

"Why would anypony want that?" Rainbow asked, hearing the conversation and growing equally concerned about their missing comrade.

“Maybe so they could take her spot?” Wind Rider suggested while most of the Wonderbolts glared daggers at both Rainbow and Ono specifically the former much to her shock at the very thought.

"Me?! I would never do that to Spitfire! Why would you think it was me?" Rainbow pleaded with the Wonderbolts backstage in an attempt to prove her innocence.

"I did see you and Spitfire leave the dinner together." Blaze pointed out complete with an accusing hoof at the pony.

"We were room neighbors in the castle!"

Misty Fly gained up on her, eyeing her suspiciously through her goggles, "And you did say you'd do anything to fly with Wind Rider."

"Yeah, but I didn't mean anything like dirty means."

Soarin was probably the only one who visually showed her sympathy rather than suspicion. To him, Rainbow Dash was a hero to many, this was not something she would do. He stepped forward, vouching for the Pegasus. "And considering Rainbow Dash is a well renowned hero of both Equestria and the Pride Lands, that is true."

"But Spitfire came by my room and told me she had to go see her mom at around midnight." Misty Fly then said to Rainbow Dash, "Where were you then?"

"I was asleep at midnight... having this totally amazing dream. There I was at the arena flying with Wind Rider, like I've always wanted to—" She stopped in her tracks, with a hoof to her mouth to stop herself mid-sentence. "—ah, eh, never mind. Not helping."

The Wonderbolts gathered together to discuss what to do next. Rainbow watched in anxiety. She knew she didn't do anything to Spitfire and she would never do it even if it was in her best interests.

After some talking it over, they all dispersed with Soarin speaking up on behalf of the team. “Rainbow Dash, if you can prove that somepony else is behind Spitfire's disappearance before the start of the show, then you can still fly with us." He turned to the other Wonderbolts. "In the meantime, Misty Fly, Blaze, head over to Stormy Flare's house and try to find Spitfire and bring her back." The two saluted back before flying off. Soarin sighed before addressing to Rainbow Dash once more. "I have to warn you, if you sent that letter, the bylaws are clear. I'd have no choice but to ban you from the Wonderbolts forever. Understand?"

Rainbow's ears lowered in sadness knowing full well of what would happen if it is all true as she sighed. "Yes. I understand. But how am I gonna prove I didn't send a letter that I didn't send?"

"With us!"

All eyes turned their heads to see three mysterious shadows behind a pillar. The silhouettes of a certain pony, honey badger, and egret approaching them, all while wearing elegant hats, partly covering their faces and gorgeous trench coats with long collars with the boys both wearing black shades. The three strangers revealed stepped out from the shadows as the unicorn spoke in a serious tone.

"Detectives Rarity, Ono, and Bunga are on the case, and we are going to get to the bottom of this faster than my costume change!"

Rainbow Dash only scratched the back of her head in confusion to her friends' sudden behaviors. "Yeah, what's with the getup?"

"Obviously, we are channeling Shadow Spade through these gorgeous garments, and she would say that the best way to prove that you didn't send the letter is to find out whoever did."

Rainbow rolled her eyes and flew closer to her Pride Lander friends, "Okay, Rarity I get it. But you two?"

Ono looked on with a determined expression, tilting his hat slightly creating a shadow just above his face while tilting his shades a bit, giving himself the same mysterious look like Shadow Spade. "Yes. For I too have read the Shadow Spade novels during my time reading in the library along with Detective Rarity and I know for a fact that in order to crack this case now is the perfect opportunity to channel that inner Spade. And with the help of my keen sight, I’ll make sure that whoever did this to you gets the book thrown at him or her.”

Bunga then added. “And I’m tagging along for the fun for it and for the opportunity to wear this cool coat and hat! Oh, and for taking the opportunity to get a first crack at a real case since the whole Mystery on the Friendship Express incident.”

Rainbow was…literally jaw dropped. She’d expect this from Bunga but Ono? Considering that his keen sight hasn’t always come through at times as far as Scar is concerned. It’s truly spot on, but the question is can it pull through this time around?

"First stop –" Rarity began, "the scene of the crime!"

She then lead both Ono and Bunga who flanked beside her as they pressed forward to crack the case leaving Rainbow mind-boggled at what she was seeing right in front of her. But none of the less, followed after them considering they are her only hope of ensuring that her career with the Wonderbolts is on the line here.

The friends walked down the hallways of the castle, the atmosphere suddenly becoming mysterious as Rarity and Ono kept their hats slightly down with the latter’s up enough to keep his eyesight from being completely blocked. Bunga had his claws in his pockets while Rarity took lead. In her mind, Rarity narrated.

"We had a long road ahead of us, my friends and I. Well, not too long because we didn't have much time, but the point is... Ono and I were up for the challenge."

Ono then narrated within his mind too. "We got a tough road ahead of us. But I know for sure that Rarity and I will get to the bottom of this even if it takes us all day to figure it out. This I swear!”

The team began searching in Spitfire's room in the palace. Rainbow searched the drawers while Bunga searched underneath the bed, while Ono and Rarity searched for clues. Anything that did not belong and would indicate somebody had indeed placed the fake letter to Spitfire.

Rarity looked through a magnifying glass, still narrating silently, "There we were, surveying the crime scene, and looking très chic while doing it." She then spotted something at the corner of the room. A piece of golden paper. She levitated it, "This must be the envelope for the letter Spitfire got!" She said before sniffing the envelop. She caught a whiff of something very familiar, but she needed to be absolutely certain first before pursing said thought.

Ono then joined Rarity as he moved to give the envelope Rarity had in her magic a good scan after tilting the shades upwards from his eyes. “Hmm…” He spotted something fall out of it, a certain rainbow-colored hair. "Hmm. Hairs. Rainbow colored hairs..."

Rainbow Dash gulped in fear, "That's not good."

“Hold on…” Ono interrupted as he still locked eyes on the ends of the hair before finding the part that he is looking for. “…for this mystery is still far from done as there is more work needed before things can be decided.” He said while still speaking in a serious and mysterious manner much to Rainbow’s bafflement.

She then got even more baffled when she saw Bunga sneaking cookies in her trench coat pockets along with seeing Rarity looking at herself in the mirror.

"What are you doing?"

"Uh, just thinking thoughts." She stammered even though she was briefly distracted by her own reflection in the mirror while Bunga quickly got to work in further inspecting her closet but not without secretly munching on the cookies he just taken. She quickly resumed her serious demeanor and continued narrating.

"Rainbow Dash was right. In order to solve the mystery, we had to be focused. Driven. One hundred percent in the…Ooh! The damask pattern on these curtains is exquisite!" She said while briefly reverting to her usual self upon seeing said curtains in front of her. "Oh, and this velvet rope-holder – oh, it's just—"

"We don't have time to look at the décor!" Rainbow exclaimed anxiously. "I'm going to loose the best job I ever had unless we solve this thing!"

Rarity quickly got to work by inspecting the curtains even closer. "I know, Rainbow, and I'm on this case like a charm on a bracelet! Here's what I'm thinking: somepony had to bring Spitfire that letter, which means somepony must have seen them!" She gestured to three stallions at the farthest corner of the hallway, standing beside the large entrance doors.

The royal guards!

The guards were currently in a room, all standing near a wooden desk, where Ono began interrogating them. "I just have a few questions for you, and I'm sure once we get some things cleared up, we'll—"

"Come on, Ono, we don't have all day!" Rainbow stated impatiently.

“Relax, Rainbow! We got this!” Bunga quickly assured before joining Ono alongside him. Suddenly and unexpectedly he immediately changed his expression as she slammed his paws onto the table like the bad cop in the good cop, bad cop scenario. "Where were you on the night of last night at midnight?!"

"We were here, guarding the hallway entrance like we were supposed to." One of the guards answered.

"A likely story."

"I'm telling you, we were there all night, and no one went in or out of that hallway."

The second castle guard rubbed his chin nervously. "Except for the rainbow pony."

"What are you tryin' to say?!" Rainbow gained up on him, narrowing her eyes.

"Just that there are only two rooms in the northwest wing: yours and Spitfire's. So the only other pony who had access to that wing was you."

Rainbow Dash's eyes widened in horror at what she was hearing. First the rainbow haired clue and now the guards were saying she was the only one with access to the hallway aside from Spitfire. None of this made sense to her, she would have known if she had walked down those hallways last night.

Ono looked on while shaking his head before turning to whisper to Rarity. "The waters are getting choppy here, Rarity."

"Agreed. Rainbow Dash's methods are sincere, yet…well, horrid. I believe it is time for another approach."

Knowing full well of what she means by that, he and Bunga stepped aside as they allowed Rarity to take lead this time around.

"Perhaps I should take it from here!" Rarity said, speaking in her normal voice while wearing a different costume from before…and sitting on her fainting couch in a dark purple dress with a high white collar and a feathered boa with a headpiece on the left side of her head, styled like a flower with a transparent lace hanging from it. Both Bunga and Rainbow blinked in surprise at the sight unsure and uneasy of what to make of it.

“Didn’t see that coming.” Bunga commented.

The unicorn approached the guards, speaking in a sleek and somewhat flirtatious voice and manner while standing close to the first castle guard. "You castle guards have such a difficult job. I'm guessing that at times it can be rather... boring." She whispered in his ear, nearly making both Bunga and Rainbow Dash throw up.

“Whoa! Didn’t need to see that!” Bunga commented while raising his arms up.

"It is." The guard agreed. "I've counted all three hundred and forty five bolts in the ceiling tiles two hundred and ninety three times!"

"And of course being a castle guard can be thankless work." Rarity batted her eyelashes at the second guard. "I'm not saying you did, but if you took a break, you more than deserved it."

"Oh, you're right." The first guard replied in agreement. "We don't get a lot of recognition for what we do."

"Except for last night when somepony was nice enough to leave a cake for us." The second guard brought up. "So we did take one little break when we ate that cake."

The guards were surprised when Rarity then slammed her hoofs onto the table with narrowed eyes directed at them with her next question. "What kind of cake was it?"

"Cherry with a custard filling."

"Was the frosting vanilla or chocolate?"

"Chocolate."

"Was the base of the cake decorated with buttercream rosettes?"

"It was."

Rainbow groaned in frustration, "Ugh, who cares how it was decorated?!"

“I do.” Ono replied before leaning in with a steely glare. “One last question, was the cake delivered in a box or on a plate?"

"It was on a plate."

"Clear white with a golden ring around the edges?"

"Yes."

"Now you're talking about plate decorations?!" Rainbow exclaimed in annoyance.

"Not to fear, my little pony. I think we have all we need."

"What do you mean you have what you need?!"

"Rainbow Dash was questioning my methods. But I knew what I was doing."

"Do you?"

Ono clamped his beak immediately while shocked himself. "Oops! Did I say that one out loud?"

"I mean, even I think I'm guilty at this point!" Rainbow got down on her knees practically leaning down desperately at Ono’s eye level to assert her innocence. "I really did want to fly in that show! What if I wrote that note when I was asleep?! Do you know what I do when I sleep?! Because I sure don't!"

Rarity, once again in her trench coat and hat, approached her to back him up. "Oh, calm down, Rainbow Dash. We'll get to the bottom of this. And I know exactly what Ono was doing when he asked about the cake."

"You do?"

Ono nodded. "Yep. For there is only one bakery in Canterlot that sells a chocolate cherry cake with custard filling and buttercream frosting rosettes on a fancy white plate with golden edges. One bakery which I’m particularly fond of myself for said cake they have...”

"…Cinnamon Chai's Tea and Cake Shop!"

Now wearing a different outfit, with her hair in a ponytail, Rarity and her friends made their way to the cake shop, where they spotted a female unicorn waitress cleaning a glass cup. Her name tag said her name was Cinnamon Chai.

"Hello, how can I help you?" She greeted the costumers in a sophisticated manner.

"I've heard you have the best chocolate cherry custard cake with buttercream frosting rosettes in town!" Rarity greeted with her usual charming appearance while Ono kept his coat and hat on.

"Ah, you travel in the right circles! We have the only chocolate cherry custard cake with buttercream frosting rosettes in town!" She gestured to the window display to where there was an empty space where said cake was once there.

"Oh, no. But somepony's already bought it! Who was the lucky pony?"

Cinnamon Chai thought for a moment before answering albeit a little reluctantly. "I can't even say!"

"Why?" Ono asked seriously. "Because it was somepony famous, maybe?"

"No… because it was hard to tell! She was wearing a trench coat, sunglasses, and a scarf around her head that covered most of her face. But I do remember she had a really deep, raspy voice."

"What do you mean, raspy?" Rainbow asked.

"Well, kinda like yours." Rainbow once more expressed her anxiety by nervously gulping in response to said comment.

"And there it was, more evidence that pointed directly to her." Ono narrated. "She was starting to lose hope. But I knew both me and the fashionable unicorn were hot on the trail." He whispered into Rarity's ear, "If you be so kind."

Rarity nodded before taking lead once again.

"Gladly." Rarity sat with the unicorn on an outdoors table, "If there's anything else you can remember, dish."

"Well, have I got a story for you! The pony who bought the cake threw a big fit when she accidentally got chocolate ganache on her scarf!"

"That's terrible! What color was the scarf?"

"White! No, maybe more an ivory…"

"You don't say!"

The moment was interrupted when Rainbow Dash yelled at her friend, "I can't believe you're talking fashion at a time like this!" At this point, Rainbow’s patience had ran completely thin. To her, her friends are supposed to be helping clear her name but instead they were focusing more on cakes and scarfs and costumes that solving this case.

Rarity placed a calming hoof on her friend's shoulder, "Rainbow, don't panic. I need you to trust us."

"Trust you?! You've spent more time changing clothes and narrating like you’re auditioning for a part in a movie than trying to help me! I'm doomed!"

“No you’re not!” Bunga assertively stated while shaking his head and gesturing her to get a grip much to the pony's surprise at the stance he used. “Because if there’s anything I learned from my detective experience back at the mystery on the Friendship Express, things are not always what they seem until you look at every piece of evidence presented in front of you.”

“How?!”

“Just follow us and you’ll see what we’re talking about! Trust us!” He then took lead while Rarity and Ono were quick to follow by his side still leaving Rainbow baffled and unable to comprehend what he meant by that.

The rain started to pore down upon the group. Both Bunga and Rarity had umbrella to keep the downpour from landing on top of the heads with Ono flying under the former’s. Rainbow Dash however didn't even bother to shield herself from the water soaking her due to still being too depressed to care. She wanted to trust her friends, she really did, but most of this wasn't making any sense.

Rarity continued to narrate to herself. "Rainbow Dash was obviously upset, but I had all my ducks in a row. Except one. She was not going to like it, but there was only one way to find out if our suspicions were correct."

Back at the arena, Stormy Flare was still worrying about her daughter. She knew she was strong and can take care of herself, but even a mother can't ever help but think the worst when it comes to the safety of their child. At the same time, Soarin is stress eating pies while trying his hardest to stay calm about all of this.

The door opened as Blaze entered the room, "We looked everywhere, but Spitfire wasn't at her mom's house!"

"Where could she be?" Stormy Flare frantically asked just when the doors opened once again as Rarity, Ono, and Bunga all entered first together.

"We have found the culprit!" The unicorn stated to the Wonderbolts who all gasped in shock while Soarin swallowed his bit of pie at that moment.

Rarity walked across the room as she explained to the everypony what she and her friends had found. "Somepony sent Spitfire away and framed Rainbow Dash for it. And that pony was none other than…"

The room was silent when Rarity made the big reveal…

"Wind Rider!"

Lightning cracked from the window behind Wind Rider, who sat on his chair completely unfazed. Rainbow Dash face-hoofed herself again upon the accusation.

"Rarity, I can't believe you would accuse Wind Rider of framing me! He's a living legend, for pony's sake!"

"True but all evidence points to him!” Ono said with narrowed eyes in his direction.

"Peh! What evidence could you possibly have? All you guys did was ask about cake, admire décor, and change outfits a gazillion times!"

"Well most of that was Rarity." Ono corrected before moving to explain himself in his normal voice. “But point being is while all evidence was set up to make it look you it was your doing, it was really Wind Rider who did. Why you may ask? None of us ever believed Rainbow Dash would send Spitfire away. When we found the rainbow hairs in Spitfire's room, I gave the evidence a good scan and could tell they didn't fall out. They... were cut!" Rarity pulled out the piece of evidence in a plastic bag, showcasing the hair piece. "It takes a keen eye to see that this kind of cut does not fall out on it’s own as you can tell upon looking at the ends. It's a straight line! They were clearly cut with shears, which means somepony planted it!"

Rarity took her turn in explaining their findings this time around. "Then when we were examining Spitfire's room, I smelled something on the envelope. Juniper Phoenix, Wind Rider's cologne of choice! Then, in the castle hallway, I noticed some of the damask curtains fell out of their velvet rope-holder, indicating that somepony had been hiding behind them! Perhaps after they dropped off the fake letter?" She eyed the older stallion suspiciously, but he did give any change in emotion to showcase his guilt.

Wind Rider rolled his eyes in response. "Juniper Phoenix is a very popular fragrance, and anypony could have moved those curtains."

"Precisely why we questioned the castle guards!" Ono then said as he explained next. "They were at their post at the entrance to the hallway all night, except for one short moment of time when somepony brought them an expensive cake. A cake that was ordered by a girl pony with a raspy voice!"

Rarity explained next. "Whoever ordered the cake got a chocolate stain on her ivory scarf, and I couldn't help but notice that Wind Rider's scarf is tied in a tight Windsor knot instead of its usual loose slipknot!"

Truth be told, Wind Rider really is wearing his scarf differently. Though many saw this as a simple once in a while fashion choice, but both Rarity and Ono knew otherwise.

Bunga then stepped forward to take his turn with dramatic flair. “And why is that, Wind Rider? Is it to…drumroll please?” One of the Wonderbolts quickly did exactly that as he moved to untie the scarf in order to reveal…

"The chocolate stain?!"

The Wonderbolts, even Rainbow Dash all gasped in horror at this revelation. The stain was hard to ignore and all the evidence the detectives had found did trace back to him. But Wind Rider was not one to admit his guilt.

"Ah, this is preposterous. Wonderbolts, you don't believe a word of this, right?"

"Just admit it!" Bunga exclaimed angrily at the pony complete with a finger pointed in his face. "You're as guilty of framing Rainbow Dash as you are of ruining that expensive ivory scarf! And how do I know you might ask? Because Rainbow Dash never wears a scarf nor would react badly to a stain on said clothes when it happened! Never!“ He received very surprised looks from his friends. "What? It’s true."

"Ah, fine! You caught me! I did it!" The stallion confessed now already backed into a corner here.

"But why, Wind Rider?!" Rainbow Dash was devastated to hear this. Her own idol wanted to frame her for something she didn't do. "Was it because I took the last broccoli at the dinner and you really, really wanted it?"

"No." Ono shook his head. "It was because he was afraid that you would break his long-distance Wonderbolt record! I heard him when Spitfire said you were close to breaking it. He said, and I quote, 'Heh-heh'. That's the polite yet disingenuous laugh you make when you want to seem happy but really you're not. And the funny thing is if it weren’t for the fact that I dealt with a friend who used the exact same laugh more than once before her true nature was exposed a year ago I probably would not have seen through your act, Wind Rider. Nor would I have thought twice when I spotted you giving Rainbow the eye during practice the other day so there is that."

"I thought if I could get Rainbow Dash away from the Wonderbolts for good, my record could be preserved."

“Really?” Bunga looked on with baffled disappointment. “All of that just to keep a record that would have been broken anyways even if Rainbow Dash didn’t?”

"And here I thought you were the coolest Wonderbolt ever." Rainbow Dash added sharing the same disappointment with a scowl at his former idol. "You were a pony I looked up to for years. But now, seeing what you did to me, you're nothing no more than a selfish, arrogant blowhard who only cares about getting pats on the back for one thing he did just to feel important."

"I did what I had to do to protect my record! Sometimes you gotta play dirty to be the best!"

"That's not what being a Wonderbolt is all about."

"She's right!" Soarin firmly stated in agreement as he and the other Wonderbolts narrowed their eyes at their former comrade, who indeed had no real respect for the badge or their name. "Wonderbolts look out for each other! Which reminds me, where is Spitfire?"

Wind Rider smiled arrogantly. "I sent her the letter pretending to be Stormy Flare. I told her I had Pegasitis, and the only cure is the ice iris in the Crystal Mountains."

"No wonder she's been gone so long." Rainbow said upon the revelation. "Ice irises are almost impossible to find in spring!"

Soarin looked on in concern, "The Crystal Mountains are too far for anypony to make it there and back before the royal garden opening! Rainbow Dash, we need you to fly in Spitfire's place!"

"But Spitfire shouldn't have to miss this! I'm gonna get her!"

"But you'll never make it in time!"

"Then there's no time to lose!" In a flash of light, Rainbow Dash was soaring across the watery skies to search for their missing friend. She was never one to leave anypony behind, no matter how far or hard it may be. It was in her true nature and blood.

“Go get her, Rainbow Dash!” Bunga called out to her from the window. Once he turned around he quickly spotted Wind Rider trying to sneak his way out the door while everyone was distracted. “Not so fast!”

“What?” Wind Rinder spun his head in confusion as he froze in his tracks when he suddenly saw the honey badger leaping and charging towards him.

“Zuka Zama!”

Before he could sprint away in a flash, Bunga landed on his chest and knocked him down hard onto the ground with a surprise drop-kick. And just before he could recover as he picked himself off of the ground, Rarity quickly froze him in place with her magic while Ono used his beak to shut the door to firmly cement that his escape is now impossible.

“Great catch, Bunga!” Ono complimented very impressed with what just went down.

“Eh, what can I say?” Bunga shrugged as he thought nothing of it. “I do what I do best. I’m there when it matters.”

“I couldn’t have said it any better, darling.” Rarity said equally impressed with her friend.

With Wind Rider now in custody, being guarded by the three detectives themselves, Bunga walked over to Ono, who was on the lookout for Rainbow Dash.

“Negative, Bunga. She's been gone for a long time. But never fear nor panic, knowing Rainbow Dash, she’ll come through.”

"That’s true." Rarity agreed. "Like you, she’s fearless in the face of danger. And I must say that was pretty impressive with what you did back there and how you managed to figure it all out too. Looks like that earlier detective lesson from Twilight has paid off."

“It sure has.” He said while inspecting his sharp claws.

Then, right on cue, the doors opened and two ponies entered the room. Both Rainbow Dash and Spitfire, the latter was panting and sweating like she had flew a marathon to which she definitely did given that she had been flying all day up until now.

Soarin smiled at the sight of the two ponies who had just arrived. "Rainbow Dash! Spitfire, you're back! I can't believe you made it!"

Spitfire was nearly out of breath, but the expression on her face indicated she was equally relieved as everyone in the room (sans Wind Rider of course) "I wouldn't have, if Rainbow hadn't found me so fast! Gave me enough time to fly back!"

Rainbow Dash blushed at the compliment, a habit of hers, but then lowered her hears in guilt as she approached both of her stylish friends, "Rare, Bung, On, I couldn't have done it without you all. And I'm sorry I doubted you. But why didn't you tell me what you were doing?"

"Well, we didn't want to get your hopes up until we were sure." Rarity explained. "And we couldn't be sure until we saw that chocolate stain."

“And it was a good thing I figured it out at that moment, because otherwise I would have told you right away.” Bunga added.

“That is true, darling.”

“No kidding.”

Both Rarity and Ono said in agreement.

Rainbow Dash hugged the detective trio. "Thank you for believing in me, even when I was doubting you. I'm some friend, huh?"

"Actually, you're quite a good friend." Rarity said otherwise. "You went to get Spitfire, even though it meant you couldn't fly today."

“Or you too.” Bunga pointed out to Ono who simply didn’t think much of it.

Rainbow sighed in agreement. While it was hard for her, it was ultimately the right thing to do. “Don’t worry. I’ll get my chance one day.”

“Or today.” Spitfire quick said as she approached said pony with a smile of gratitude. “How'd you like Wind Rider's spot in the show?"

Wind Rider's eyes widened in shock as he stammered in protest to that statement. "Uh, w-w-what? Y-You can't do this to me! I'm one of the greatest Wonderbolts there ever was!"

"Not anymore. For attempting to frame Rainbow Dash, I hereby strip you of your Wonderbolts status!" Spirfire angrily ripped the badge from Wind Rider's jacket for good measure, much to his horrified dismay. Everything he had ever worked for was gone in an instant. He narrowed his eyes angrily as several Wonderbolts took him away for his crimes.

Soarin, then spoke to Rainbow Dash. "So, would you like to fly with us?"

Rainbow's eyes widen as he reacted with the utmost excitement she’s ever felt in her life. "Would I?! Woo-hoo!" She flew up, doing air flips and dancing in mid-flight, "Yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah, uh-huh, uh-huh, yeah, aww yeah…"

"Uh, Rainbow Dash?"

“Coming!”

The pony immediately stopped and blushed in embarrassment. But Soarin found her antics…quite amusing while Bunga, Ono, and Rarity all shared the same knowing smiles.

By the time the show took place both leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard all had managed to arrive for the show just in time.

“Rarity!”

“Bunga!”

Twilight and Kion all greeted as they approached their friends in the stands.

“Twilight, darling you made!”

“Perfect timing!”

Rarity and Bunga returned feeling very elated at the very sight of them being here.

“Of course we would be here on time!”

“Especially upon hearing that both Rainbow Dash and Ono were going to be flying in the show today!”

Both leaders happily returned while sharing friendly hugs together with their respective friends.

“And we can tell you both sure had quite adventure while we were away.” Twilight commented first.

“What did you both do?” Kion asked next.

The two detectives smiled and placed their hats back on, sounding mysterious once.

“Oh we’ll tell you. But for now…” Bunga began in his regular voice.

"That, my dear Twilight." Rarity then said in her mysterious sounding voice.

"Is a story for another time." Bunga finished while tipping his hat, making the others arch an eyebrow ready to hear that story when they’re ready to share it.

The group watched with pride and joy as Rainbow Dash flew into the sky, looking as amazing as she always did. Rarity and Kion were exceptionally proud of them.

"So my friend got her moment in the sun." Rarity narrated, "Or the center of an aerial flower, as the case may be. And as for me? I got a chance to show off my Femme Mystique Chic collection!"

"Who are you talking to?" Kion asked, getting her attention.

"Oh, did I say that out loud?" The pony giggled before getting back to watching the show.

At the same time, Wind Rider is now looking down in disgruntled defeat as he finds himself walking off of Wonderbolts territory now that he is no longer one of them. Just when he was about to decide the next course of action, he is then drawn towards a voice speaking to him.

“What a pity for this to have happened to you, Wind Rider…” Wind Rider looked around until he looked up and saw Scar floating over his head. “…and I can tell you from personal experience no one deserves to have all of your own hard work taken away from you…” He snapped his fingers just when his Wonderbolt jacket disappeared. “…just like that.”

“And just how does this concern you of any way?” Wind Rider asked with a look of confusion and fear.

“Because we have common ground here. You and me we both have a bone to pick with in regards to the Lion and Pony Guard. You and me, one and another have managed to stand in our way of achieving what is ours in our pursuit of victory.” He explained while circling around him. “And when that happens, there is one thing we would want at the end of the day. Revenge.”

“Revenge?”

“Yes.”

“And why should I listen to what you have to say as if I’m a willing solider?” He asked the most wanted enemy of both kingdoms suspiciously while still keeping his circling eyes on guard from him.

“Because even if you despise me which I don’t blame you one way or another, I know for a fact that you hate the Lion and Pony Guard even more. Especially Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Ono, and Bunga after they cost you your life and career as an honored Wonderbolt. The achievements and accomplishments you've made and done now tainted and slandered all because of one very important achievement you really wanted to keep in life but now no longer have. They burned you down to the ground and ruined you, you're no longer a hero to them. You're just like any other misunderstood villain including me and if we work together we can regain what was rightly ours.” He simply replied as he flew down so they could see eye to eye together. “Right now, I am in a war and I’m offering you an once in a lifetime opportunity here. So…” He offered his claw for him to shake on a cemented deal. “…will you take it or forever spent your last days in life sulking on the fact you passed down an opportunity to retain your former glory?”

Wind Rider though about it for a minute as the graying skies around them got dark as he looked on ready to take upon the opportunity presented to him. He moved to shake his paw who likewise smiled with sinister satisfaction.

Author's Note

For starters before I begin the title itself is also finding a more suitable name for the episode and after reading this episode, I'm sure you'll find out why. Moving forward for those who get the reference I apologize for those who disagree but personally it's something that I feel about those movies aside from a few exceptions.

Anyways, back to the main plot when Rainbow Dash is accused of playing dirty to obtain a spot in the Wonderbolts show, Rarity (inspired by Shadow Spade) along with Ono and Bunga are both working alongside her to help get to the bottom of this mystery.

And for those wondering why I picked them to work alongside Rarity you may ask? Well, Ono is the Keenest of Sight and past experience sure helped him be more observation in deducing the culprit. And as for Bunga, well after his past experience playing detective helped him figure things out and come through at the right time, even with all things considered about him. And thanks to her loyal friends, not only is Rainbow proven innocent, but she also gets to be a part of the show too, as a rewarding bonus for doing the right thing.

With good karma playing in favor of Rainbow Dash and bad karma going up against Wind Rider, things all work out in the end.

Anyways that's it for this month, when September opens up next week we will get into another friendship mission where Fuli and Beshte will be accompanying Applejack and Rarity as they travel to Manehattan where a friend of Rarity's is in need of renovating and uplifting help so look out for that by then.

Episode 28: Made In Manehattan

Episode 28:

Made in Manhattan

Twilight Sparkle's eyes read a few words from the page of her book briefly before closing the book again, "Ehh…" she said before blowing a raspberry with clear annoyance and disinterest. She picked another book and also read a few words, quickly losing interest in that one too. She sighed and groaned as she placed it back on the tall pile beside her.

Ono was equally bored as he joined her by sitting stomach first on the other tall piles of books Twilight had created during her boredom. His front beak sticking out on the front edge of the book while his legs and tail feathers stuck out on the back edge of the book. Whenever Ono looked at a book Twilight had set aside, he too would look at it for a few seconds before placing it aside onto a pile he created on the floor. Both released a heavy sigh.

"I'm bored." Twilight said.

“Me too.” Ono said in agreement.

"Me three." Sunset's voice told them as she entered the room with the same expression of boredom and interest.

Spike looked up from his comic, eyeing them curiously, "But you're reading." He said, finding it odd that both bookworms would be bored of reading books and learning all about history.

"We've read all these books already." Twilight replied gesturing to the massive books on many, many shelves spread all around them inside this room.

“Every single one of them!” Ono added with emphasis from his spread out wings.

“And…”

“And we’re bored!”

“What about the Lion and Pony Guard patrols?” He asked hoping they could find something else to do.

“Already done. Nothing but quick and simple checkups on both kingdoms all week.” Twilight said.

“How about training?”

“We just did our last workout yesterday.” Ono said, without a change of emotion or expression while holding up a schedule and a dumbbell that he can easily lift up and down with. “Need another day before our muscles can fully recover for the next one.”

"Not to mention I just finished catching up on the many, many spells I missed out on while I was away from here." Sunset added. Normally she would be excited after learning more powerful magic with every passing day, but unfortunately today was not one of those days. “Anything new with Scar and his army?”

“Haven’t heard anything from him or his followers all week too.” Twilight said still not interested. Although relieved and grateful, she’s not about to needlessly put herself in danger just to find out Scar has planned for them next. “I’d be surprised if he tried to come after any of us right now.”

“He’s smart to the point even he wouldn’t dream of picking a fight he can’t win.” Ono added in agreement.

“Right. Right.” She remembered the princess recalling some of the things said during that meeting the other day and the discussion of Scar is included. “Anything you’d wish to do?”

“Something exciting.” Twilight said. “Like I wanna do something. Things have been so slow around here and I d—"

"Twilight! Ono!"

The princess, unicorn, egret, and dragon were startled when the sound of one of their friends' voices called out to them. The two quickly rushed on over towards the sounds of their friend’s voices in flight on towards the throne room, where the voice was coming from. Spike quickly followed after them. The doors busted open and the three saw their friend Rarity beside the magical map. Not only her but Fuli and Kion were there too.

Rarity sighed in relief, "Ooh, Twilight, Ono, oh, thank goodness! It seems that my—"

The sound of galloping hooves was heard from behind and the friends saw Applejack, along with Beshte coming inside the throne room at that moment too. Applejack panted once she came to a stop,

"Whew! Got here as fast I c—" She was interrupted when Twilight gasped at what she saw before her. Applejack's cutie mark was glowing!

Rarity, Beshte, and Fuli both walked closer, revealing that their cutie marks along with the latter two’s Marks of the Guard were glowing as well.

“Is it my turn too?”

“And mine too?”

Both Twilight and Ono hopefully smiled for a second before checking their marks too…

…alas, sadly unlike their friends, theirs weren’t glowing alongside them.

“Nope.”

“Sorry.”

Both Fuli and Kion said while shaking their heads honestly.

“Oh!” Both sighed with disappointment.

"Really itching to go on one of those friendship missions, huh?" Sunset asked with the looks they were showing enough to showcase their answer.

Much like with Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, Bunga, and Rarity were summoned to Griffonstone. Applejack and Rarity were summoned by the map had called for this time around. Not only that both Fuli and Beshte were summoned too and will be joining them to whatever their destination is.

As happy as they were for their friends they still couldn’t help but feel downcast and left out of the much needed desire for adventure before groaning and face palming themselves onto the table.

“That bored, huh?” Fuli asked very understanding of her friend’s frustration. “I hear you both.”

“I just listened in to Zazu’s latest morning report and he found nothing worth our time in the Pride Lands.” Kion continued. “It’s still quiet and peaceful even with all things considered.”

“There’s nothing worth our time here or there or anywhere.” Twilight said while raising her head up from the table.

“I even just scanned the whole kingdom here and there and there is literally nothing going on in Ponyville.” Ono added equally frustrated as the princess. “Who would have thought that the one much needed day off for the first time in two years and this is what’s happening.” He took a calming breath. “I’m sorry it’s just this boredom is killing me.”

“Don’t worry you guys!” Beshte assured the best he could with a smile. “I’m sure you’ll both find something to do. You just need to keep on looking.”

“We’ll see…” Twilight said before focusing her attention on the glowing marks on his, Fuli’s, Rarity’s, and Applejack’s bodies. “…but all venting issues aside…” They all looked on at the glowing markings as the manifestations of the cutie marks emerged upwards and spiraled around one another before shrinking down to size much it when their previous friends were called When it hovered on over to a particular location Rarity was the first to react by squealing with excitement.

"Manehattan! We've been called to Manehattan! Oh, I've simply been dying to go back for a visit! And now, I return...with a purpose!"

“Lucky you.” Fuli sarcastically remarked. “And in case you hadn’t noticed I’m not exactly a fashionably excited lady.”

“Oh don’t you worry Fuli. I’m sure I can get you to at least appreciate a thing or two about fashion.” Rarity assured.

“We’ll see.”

Twilight examined the glowing symbols closer. "Hmmm. It looks like you've been summoned to this particular neighborhood here."

Rarity was so excited she hugged Applejack so tightly to the point she nearly couldn't breathe like Pinkie would to anybody, "We're off to solve a friendship problem in one of the busiest and most vibrant cities in all of Equestria! Isn't this exciting?!"

"Seems a hair odd, though, don't it?" Applejack asked while seeing eye to eye with Fuli. "Map callin' me to a big city like Manehattan? I can understand it callin' for Rarity and Beshte since he's an easy going guy. But why me and Fuli?"

"You may be more of a country pony at heart, Applejack." Twilight explained. "But the map picked you because you're the best ponies, and members of the Guard, to tackle this particular mission."

"The same way the map knew Bunga and Kyoga were the right members of the Lion Guard to go to Griffonstone with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash." Ono added.

"But how will we even know what our mission's supposed to be?" Fuli asked, "The place is basically a pony version of our city so there's twice as many ponies as all of Ponyville."

"Pff. Kch. Ts!" Rarity scoffed as she blew a beat-box raspberry. "More like three times! Why, it's not only home to the Haypacking District, it's also home to the Fashion District!" The unicorn stopped her gushing once she saw the frowns on both Twilight and Ono’s faces. "Hmm, shame you weren't called as well, though, darlings. You did end up quite a fan of the hustle and bustle of Manehatten during our last visit...even if one of you got to or had to travel incognito while you were there." She hesitantly brought up the last part.

Twilight looked on with a dreamily desire at the location on the map, resting her head on her hoof. "It's such an exciting city, and there's still so much I'd like to do there." Her wings opened up flapping while she floated up higher and higher while mentioning all of the wonderful things the city has to offer. "So many museums and historical landmarks to visit. Not to mention all the libraries!"

Ono’s eyes shimmered alongside the alicorn princess as he too pictured in his head of what he loves about Manehattan. “And there’s all of research and knowledge that comes with it. Not to mention all of the tall world-record breaking skyscrapers they have.”

Their friends couldn't help but find their heart’s desires admirable.

"But this is your mission." Twilight said reminding herself and Ono much to their own self-disappointment again.

"Right of course.” Ono chuckled a bit. "Don't worry about us. We've got plenty of…" He levitated Spike's comic book from his claws. "books… to keep us... busy."

Spike scoffed while leaning against his throne crossing his arms, "Heh!"

“I don’t suppose this means you’re up for a trade are you?” Fuli offered her ticket to Manehattan to Twilight and Ono. “I’m more than happy to give my spot to you both if you want it.”

“Me too.” Beshte also offered. “I don’t care if I don’t go either.”

“Tempting, but we respectively have to decline it.”

“The map is never wrong on making it’s calls.”

Both the alicorn and egret replied regretfully as much as they really wanted to accept it.

Rarity then gasped in shock. "I just remembered something! The Sisterhooves Social!"

"We'll have to miss it." Applejack sadly said seeing there is no way around it. "No tellin' how long we'll be in Manehattan. I sure hope Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle aren't too upset. We better get movin' if we're gonna catch the next train there."

“I’ll rush on ahead to the train station to get the conductor to stall for us!” Fuli vouched as she was the first to rush on out the door despite being vocal against going in the first place. “Goodbye, Kion, Twilight, Ono, Sunset! I’ll see you all when I get back!”

"Can't wait!" Sunset called back with a friendly and amused smile.

“Wait for us!” Beshte called after her as he and the other two ponies followed after her together. “And I hope something fun comes up while we’re away.”

“Good luck, guys and girls!” Kion happily called after them wishing nothing but the best of luck to them.

"Okay, we'll just…be here." Twilight’s shoulders dropped once he, Sunset, Ono, Kion, and Spike were left by themselves with the boredom already consuming them once they all left.

Just then Zazu came flying into the castle. “Ah, Kion, Twilight. Good you’re both here. I just got a report from King Simba that the antelope and impala managed to get into a fight together so if you two and the rest of the Guard can get on over stat that would be…great…Whoa!”

Next thing he knew, the four of them were all zooming out the door like the place was on fire.

“Okay. Good then. Carry on.” Zazu flew after them to make sure it goes smoothly.

"At least now they have something do. Actually…” Come to think of it, this sounded interesting to the baby dragon himself. “…this I got see!” He quickly rushed on after everyone to see what this current squabble in the Pride Lands is all about.

Later that day, the visiting party had just arrived in Manehattan and have just exited the train station.

Rarity quickly leaped forward, spinning around a lamp post, flipping her mane back, feeling a great wave of bliss and joy at being back here again.

"Oh, Manehattan, what you do to me!"

Applejack simply rolled her eyes along with Fuli while they followed after her next all while carrying a couple backpacks as they walked side by side. Even though Applejack knew her way around the place from past experience she wasn’t completely in love of the place like her fashionista friend. And since Fuli is not a girl who’s really enjoys these kinds of things shared Applejack’s lack of interest in what Manehattan has to offer. But they still pressed forward knowing that the map is never wrong when it comes to choosing said members of the Guard for a certain and specific friendship mission.

Beshte was the last to follow after them as he took it upon himself to carry Rarity’s large chest of belongings she brought with her for the trip. Not that he didn’t mind doing it considering he is used to carrying that kind of weight with his body weight. While not enthusiastic as Rarity or uninterested as both Fuli and Applejack he was optimistic about the whole thing feeling happy of being able to visit Manehattan once again along with gaining the pleasure of being able to help a friend in need.

As Fuli and Applejack both looked ahead they were bombarded by ponies, pulling taxi carts to take passengers to wherever they needed to go. They were all going as fast as they didn’t have time to properly react to all that’s going on in front of them. Applejack was never a big fan of highways, while Fuli for once is feeling overwhelmed by the upcoming traffic left and right. To her it was like being on the receiving end of an incoming stampede back in the Pride Lands.

“Whoa! Hey! Watch it!” She barked at the ponies who paid no attention to where they were going.

Beshte managed to withstand the traffic by standing his ground to the point every single pony went around him and kept their distance from him instead of mindlessly trying to trample him. “Excuse me! Coming through!” Just after that traffic rush went by he noticed both Applejack and Fuli gulping with their knees buckling up. "You both okay? Fuli? Applejack?"

"Darlings, you look frazzled." Rarity added sounding compassionate to the two.

Applejack shook her head to snap herself out of it, lowering her ears back, "Ponies move so fast here. Not at all like back home."

"But you've been to a city before." Rarity reminded her.

"Yeah, but the roads still give me the willies."

“Not to mention these ponies certainly haven’t been to Canterlot or Ponyville long enough to understand when proper road-crossing manners were invented.” Fuli added feeling very frazzled and frustrated with the traffic she just dodged seconds ago. “Another reminder why I didn’t want to come here.”

“What was the first reminder?” Beshte asked.

“The fact there are some ponies willing to take advantage of other’s generosity even though said pony has been nothing but good to them.” Fuli replied to which had Rarity looking on understanding of what she is talking about.

The last time they were here another pony in the fashion show contest stole Rarity’s original line of work to the point that it took the whole Guard all afternoon and night to put together a line in place of it. It brought the worst in Rarity that day, an unpleasant reminder of how being nearly broken can nearly turn someone into being the opposite of their true selves.

“Right that very particular day…” Rarity said trying her hardest to think nothing of it and to try to console her speedy friend. “…I understand what you mean by that darling. But everything is all good now, and I’ve learn to know when to draw a line that day. As for dealing with these kinds of ponies it’s just like with what Twilight and Ono would do if they were here. Trust your gut, and keep a sharp eye out. In other words, just keep your eyes peeled and ears open for anybody with a friendship problem."

“I’ll try.”

At the same time Applejack looked on at the crosswalk waiting for the first chance they can get to cross. All while saying to herself. "Eyes peeled, ears open. Eyes peeled, ears open. She ended up flinching when a police stallion blew on his whistle, allowing the ponies on the sidewalks the ability to cross.

But once they tried the other ponies beside them walked over faster than even they could have expected and the ponies from the opposite side also moved with the same amount of speed. It was like dealing with a stampede of animals in the the Pride Lands but faster.

“Geez. And here I thought my method of getting around was considered dangerous.” Fuli commented feeling aggravated again.

Seeing their struggle, Rarity was quick to offer some advice to deal with these street ponies, specifically the country pony who is looking on like she is a fish out of water here. "Remember, Applejack, Fuli, you're in the big city now. No moseying. You've gotta walk with speed and confidence!”

“Like how?” Fuli asked like she knows the best course of action here.

"Just watch me." Rarity crossed the street, easily and swimmingly bypassing the incoming ponies until she successfully made it across to the other side.

Fuli went next as she took a moment to get into a starting stance before sprinting on ahead into the traffic. Following Rarity’s advice she was able to swiftly pass and dodge every single pony in her way like passing slower cars falling a lap behind on a race track.

Applejack snorted like a bull and trotted her hooves, ready to cross with Beshte ready to walk beside him for comfort.

By putting his big body forward, he was able to make it by smoothly even while slowly since he isn’t as fast as the rest of his friends but still he made it across without much fuss from the other incoming ponies.

“Excuse me. My bad.” He said to a couple of ponies who had the misfortune of accidentally bumping into him.

Applejack however, was struggling a lot more as she kept on bumping into various city ponies. It was clear they had a real issue with manners.

"Move it!" One pony shouted.

"Sorry 'bout that." she apologized before continuing, only to bump into another pony.

"Ah, git outta my way!"

"Sorry."

"Watch it!" Two more ponies shouted rudely allowing her to pass.

"Heh… oh dear." By then Applejack had finally managed to make it to the other side. "Butter my biscuits, I can barely cross the street in this town. How am I supposed to help solve a—"

Rarity's gasp stopped her on her tracks and quickly got Fuli’s serious expression on ready to pounce at the first sight of trouble.

“What do you see?! Where?!” She said while darting her eyes around at the nearby streets and buildings around them.

"There!" Rarity pointed her hoof towards a young female pony purchasing a hat from a nearby stand, owned by an overweight salespony. The female pony placed a flappy green hat on her head, nearly covering her eyes while doing so.

"Yes, I think this is the one."

"No! No." Rarity quickly slapped the bit from the pony's hoof, preventing her from making a terrible mistake. At least in Rarity’s eyes alone.

"Excuse me?"

"That hat clashes with your mane, not to mention it's far too large and will undoubtedly obstruct your vision."

Rarity kindly removed the hat from the pony's head and began searching for a much better one from the stand but could find none of which would suite this pony better.

"Oh, dear, none of these will do." She pondered on what to do until she saw Beshte carrying her chest towards her. "Oh, Beshte! What good timing!"

Opening the chest, and trying to be careful of the top not hitting the back of Beshte’s head at the same time, she hummed and searched for the perfect hat to give to the pony in need of a new hat. She levitated a designer hat, colored in light purple and blue colors, that was the perfect ideal blend with her mane and eyes.

"Here. This will do splendidly." The unicorn levitated a mirror to the pony's face, and she smiled at the presented hat on her head.

"Oh, it's lovely! Uh, how much would you like for it?"

"Oh, no no, please, please, keep it. I can always make another."

"Thank you!"

The pony galloped along, thankful and happy for her new hat and the generosity that came with it. Rarity smiled in satisfaction. She turned to her friends, smiling proudly. "And you thought we wouldn't discover our purpose here! Pff. Kch. Ts!"

Applejack, Fuli, and Beshte however weren't convinced.

"Yeah, I’d hate to burst your bubble but I'm pretty sure that wasn't it." Fuli said looking on unimpressed.

“Didn’t look like a friendship problem to me.” Beshte added in agreement.

"What? I just saved that poor pony from committing a terrible crime of fashion." The arched eyebrows she got from her friends (with Beshte’s more of a look of confusion) made it clear that what just happened was what they were summoned here for. "Well, she could've been meeting a friend who would've laughed at her new hat and then their friendship could've been ruined forever! And... mmm... it's possible."

"Did your cutie mark glow signifyin' a job well done?" Applejack asked dryly.

Rarity looked at her flank and shook her head at the obvious stated. "Ye— No. I suppose it didn't. Still, a disaster was averted!"

"Averted? You just lost me a paying customer!" The male salespony angrily remarked as he advanced on the four friends as to him it was a lost sale he needed to make a living.

"Oh, my! Oh, I-I-I-I-I'm s-so sorry. I never meant to—"

"Beat it!" He shouted at her while waving his hoof angrily to which had Applejack quickly dragging Rarity away to avoid the dispute getting worse for them. But not without Applejack smiling apologetically at him while Fuli quickly got in the ponies face ready to fight him should he lay a hoof on any one of them.

“If I were you I’d stay as far away from me as possible because if any of my friends get hurt because of you. And believe me when I tell you that I’ll will do more than just tackle you should it come down to that. Got it!”

The salespony gave a nervous smile while tipping his hat before backing away slowly with raised hooves back behind his stand while Fuli backed down so she can join Applejack in dragging Rarity away from the scene with Beshte following after them.

"Uh, please accept my sincerest apologies for the misunderstanding, and, might I add, what a lovely establishment you have here!" Rarity shouted while being carried away.

Once they were a safe distance away, they all stopped running and took a moment to catch their breaths.

“And now we can make that three things I hate about this place.” Fuli stated with a huff.

“Let’s just keep going.” Beshte suggested.

“Probably for the best.” Applejack agreed before they all proceeded to walk on ahead to their actual destination.

“So the search continues.” Rarity said once her friends let her walk on her own accord.

Sometime later the group of four all arrived at the town where the map directed them to go. It was a somewhat older looking neighborhood with wooden doors and curtain liners with. On the corner of the street, Fuli and Applejack attempted to speak to the ponies walking by, in hopes of finding out the friendship problem they needed to solve. But none of them were willing to hear them out.

"Uh, 'scuse me, I was just wondering'…uh, friendship problem, anypony?" Applejack lowered her ears once her first attempts fell short of successful.

Fuli tried next to try and get someone's attention, "At least have the common decency to hear us out!”

"A-A map summoned us and, uh…"

“Please?! Ugh!”

"Friendship advice! Anypony looking for friendship advice!" Rarity had took it upon herself to build her own little stand with a poster of pony friends on the top to approach the matter with Beshte standing by to give it full support, but the ponies just walked right past them, not even acknowledging them in the slightest.

Rarity sighed and covered her face with her hooves in disappointment. "Good grief! This isn't working!"

Applejack and Fuli both sighed as they approached the stand.

"I'm not sure what we're supposed to do." Applejack commented. "To be honest, I'm still not even sure what the map called me here for."

"Oh, try not to worry, Applejack." Rarity kindly assured. "The map picked us for a reason."

"Yeah, but for what purpose?” Fuli asked already irritated with the current situation. “I mean it’s not like the answer to that question is going to fly right into our faces…d-ooh!" She was interrupted when a flyer landed on her face no sooner that she said it courtesy of the wind that just blew by. "…Of course." She remarked in a deadpan tone of voice.

Rarity levitated the paper off of her face and read it word for word. "Please help us restore our long-lost but beloved tradition, the Midsummer Theatre Revival. There's a guest performance by a local theater troupe, the Method Mares, as well as games, food, and much, much more. This event promises to bring our broken neighbors together and restore our sense of community but there's so much to do and we need your help."

After reading the flying, Rarity gasped with glee as she showed everyone the image on it. "Darlings, this is it! The contact on the flyer is Coco Pommel!"

"Oh, right!” Applejack commented as she recognized that name. “I know her! She's the one you got a job makin' costumes for that designer friend o' yours."

“Not to mention she used to be Suri’s assistant who needed help to step out of her shadow." Fuli bitterly added before realizing. "And if that’s the case then that must be why the map called us here!”

“Sure sounds like our friendship problem to solve to me!” Beshte agreed whole-heartedly.

"Oh, and you two were so worried!" Rarity said with a knowing smile to both Applejack and Fuli.

To everyone this did fit the bill, helping out an friend they once met in the past always is a common friendship problem to solve.

“Well not anymore.” Fuli said now more upbeat and confident than before.

"Well, I suppose it's at least worth lookin' into…" Applejack agreed this is worth investing into. "…that is, if we ever get off this street corner."

“I got this!” Fuli quickly assured before stepping forward and shouting to every pony. “Hey! Hey! HEY!”

“What?” One of the ponies wearing an orange hard hat asked accompanied with a group of construction ponies.

Pointing towards a rich and snobby looking pony up ahead she told them. “The boss says you’re fired.”

Hearing this every pony shocked and angered at the very thought.

“What?!”

“I’ll get him!” One of the workers pounded his hooves together as they got everypony to form an angry mob ready to start a riot against the business pony.

Fuli smiled upon watching every pony clear a path for them to make their way out of here while the others followed looking on in the cheetah's direction just amazed that even worked.

The group made their towards the house accompanied with the matching address on the paper and met up with Coco Pommel at her apartment home. A lovely balcony room on the third floor fit and designed to her liking, complete with with various design supplies, several fabrics, sketches of designs on the walls and various pins and measuring tapes. The kind pony happily made her guests some tea and delicious sandwiches for them to enjoy.

Coco sat on one of her pillow chairs while both Applejack and Rarity sat on the couch, and Fuli and Beshte sat comfortably on the floor.

"I can't believe you found my flyer." Coco expressed gratefully as happy she is to see her friends here today especially Rarity. "Quite a coincidence, don't you think?"

"The four of us were specifically summoned here to be of service, and you, my dear friend, are in need of help." Rarity explained before taking a sip of her tea, "It's no coincidence, darling. It's fate!"

Applejack took a bite from one of the sandwiches before asking the question. "This Midsummer Theatre Revival – what is it, exactly?"

"An outdoor play held at the community park."

Coco opened up a photo album she had placed beside her on her chair. The pictures depicted a lovely park, filled with fresh green grass and beautiful flowers all around a simple stage for ponies to perform on. She then pulled out images off an elderly earth pony with several little fillies putting on some costumes behind a stage. Some of the pictures showed a much younger Coco with the elderly female pony. It was pretty clear at first sight that they had a special friendship together. A lovely family like friendship together.

"Many moons ago, local theater troupes would perform, and ponies in the neighborhood would help make the costumes, and design set pieces, prepare food to share during the performance."

“Wow! Back then you all look like you're enjoying each others' company." Beshte commented.

"Yeah." Applejack agreed. "Kinda of reminds me of Ponyville."

"It sounds lovely, darling." Rarity complimented.

But Coco's smile faded as she then spoke sadly and what happened next. "It was, up until several moons ago."

"What happened?" Fuli asked in concern.

Coco pointed to the image of the elderly pony. "That's Charity Kindheart. She was a well-known costume designer on Bridleway. She started the Midsummer Theatre Revival as a way to share her passion for theatre with the neighborhood. No matter how busy she was, she always made time for the Revival."

Everyone including Fuli smiled when they saw a picture of Charity giving Coco the lovely orange and purple flower she always wore on her mane. Ever since then she has always carried that memento with her.

Once she closed the album, Coco walked towards her balcony, looking down upon the city she called home. "But when she moved away to be closer to her grandfillies, the neighborhood lost the special tradition she had started, and worse, the sense of community it fostered."

“Not hard to see why.” Fuli commented as she joined her on the balcony and observed the continuing rudeness and unapologetic attitude every pony showed at every corner around the nearby buildings. “Clearly disappointing if you ask me.”

"Nopony else stepped up to take over for Charity?" Beshte asked.

"I've been trying to, but I've just gotten a last-minute request to alter costumes for the cast of My Fair Filly, and I'm afraid I haven't made much progress. Oh, there's just so much to do to bring back the Midsummer Revival, and my flyers haven't attracted a single volunteer!"

Rarity flipped her mane with confidence before telling her otherwise. "Say no more! You finish up your work, and by this time tomorrow, you'll be up to your mane in ponies who want to lend a hoof. Applejack, Beshte, Fuli, and I will make sure of it!"

"You will?" Coco asked with a wide hopeful smile.

"You bet your boots we will!" Applejack said in agreement.

"Oh, I don't wear boots. I find they chafe my calves when I walk."

“It’s just an expression.” Fuli clarified to which left the pony looking aside while blushing upon the realization.

The following day, the full party split into two groups as they got to work on finding ponies to help with the revival. As a first attempt, the four stood in front of a newsstand, where a stallion was stacking papers,where Rarity addressed the issue to him.

"So you see, the Method Mares are only available on this one day, and we need all the help we can get with preparation!"

The Newspaper Pony only shook his head in response. "Yeah, not a good time right now. Heh. What am I saying? It's never a good time!" He said right after a pony purchased his newspaper.

“And you’re sure making good on it!” Fuli sarcastically and irritably replied before they moved to try a different approach.

The group of four split apart into two teams in order to cover more ground. Rarity and Applejack moved to cover the east side while Fulit and Beshte covered the the west side.

The Lion Guard members first encountered a pony in a stand selling popcorn where they both tried their luck in explain the purpose of the revival.

"Well? What do you think?" Beshte asked hopefully.

"I got my own problems. You think I've got hours to dedicate to somepony else's?" The pony coldly replied.

“Maybe if you put some extra thought into her head and maybe a little more love into her heart so you’ll see why?” Fuli replied back equally cold and threatening back in the pony’s face.

“I’m sorry but I still stand by my decision!” The pony fearfully returned before fleeing.

“You’re welcome!” Fuli called out after him in disgust. “Ugh! Not that I expected that to work anyways.”

“Oh well. On to the next pony.” Beshte said trying to still be positive about all of this as they both pressed forward.

Elsewhere, Applejack and Rarity encountered a very rich looking pony at the park and explained to him their situation.

"Ah yes, Charity's Midsummer Theatre Revival, such wonderful memories." He commented while twirling his mustache.

"So you'll help us?" Applejack hopefully asked, only for the smile to turn into a frown of disappointment when the business pony laughed instead.

"Oh, don't be ridiculous! I run a very important oat and hay import/export business. I can't spare even a moment for such things!"

The pony laid down on a floating mattress and simply floated away on the lake without another word with his mind set on the matter, leaving the two ponies to worry about the revival.

It was pretty clear at this point nopony wants any part of this.

With their efforts futile the four all returned to Coco's apartment empty pawed and hoofed.

"This is a nightmare." Coco commented sadly over what had transpired today.

"Oh, not at all, darling! It's quite lovely!" Rarity said while admiring a hat Coco had recently made.

Fuli rolled her eyes in response. "I think she was talkin' about the Midsummer Theatre Revival? Not the hat, Rarity."

"I finished the alterations for My Fair Filly, but I've barely started the costumes for the Revival, and the Method Mares are coming to the park tomorrow for a costume fitting and rehearsal!"

"Well, I could help you with the costumes." Rarity offered.

"But what are we going to do about the rest?” Coco pointed out. “The park is in desperate need of repairs, and the sets still need to be built!"

That is where Applejack quickly stepped up to the task. “Well I know a thing or two about buildin’ and fixin’ things. It’s kinda, well, our thing since our friend Beshte knows full well of what that’s like."

“I’d be glad to help you out there.” Beshte happily replied. "It could be the reason the map called us here!"

"That's right!" Rarity smiled in agreement. "The map wouldn't have chosen just the four of us if it was more than we could handle! Everything is going to be just fine!"

"Maybe I spoke too soon…"

“You think!” Fuli glanced in her direction.

“Nope. Definitely.”

The park itself was worse than they thought. Through the years of being abandoned the plants had grown larger in size, wrapping itself around the benches and statues, all of them all rusted, worn out, and old. The benches were all old and weak with so many weeds that not even Spike could bare to count on his own. The old theater too was old, worn out, and looked little it was able to crumble apart at any moment’s notice. What seemed to be a simple job turns out to be much larger than they thought.

"Oh dear, you're right!" Coco said in despair.

“It’ll be okay.” Beshte quickly assured. “Both me and Applejack have seen worse.”

“Yep.” Applejack agreed even though she bit her bottom lip unsure if it’s possible. "Well, there's a lot to do... but Rarity's right. The map wouldn't have called us here if we weren't up for the challenge! Ya'll go on and take care of the costumes and get the food. I'll see you at the dress rehearsal."

“Okay. Good luck.” Fuli said before joining Rarity and Coco with what they need to do in preparation for the event.

Once it was just the Guard’s Strongest alone to deal with the park in front of them, Applejack gulped in worry at the huge and daunting task in front of them. But they were determined to see to it that the job is done no matter how long it takes.

Beshte got started by pushing a wheel barrel so he can use to gather and pull all of weeds and root inside of it. So far, he had managed to successfully remove a large portion of the weeds…out of the one small portion of the park.

Applejack did her part by mowing the lawns, because even with Beshte removing the weeds, the park still needed to be arranged. Beshte continued pulling the weeds off of the ground and place them into the barrel, which began to get too heavy from the excess load, causing it to tumble and allow all the weeds to fall out.

Applejack continued mowing the lawns, only to accidentally get mow her hat over when it fell off thanks to it briefly getting caught by one of the branches. To her it’s always frustrating and upsetting whenever that happens even though she can always rely on Rarity to help fix it.

Beshte tried to yank another pesky weed from the ground, but it was being really stubborn for the kind hearted hippo. He resorted to pulling on it with all of the might his teeth had to offer until it snapped off, causing him to tumble backwards into one of the statues. He jumped out of the way in time before it could fall on him, but not without knocking Applejack’s hat off which got crushed too when it landed.

“Sorry.”

Several hours later, all the weeds were finally gone, and Applejack had finally managed to clean up the remains. After all of that sweat and strength they mustered into this project the farm pony moved to place her hat down on a nearby park bench…only for it to crumble apart the moment it was placed on the bench due to it being incredibly old and worn.

After several more hours, the park was nearly perfect. It still needed a bit more work but it looked far better than before. Now they needed to prepare the stage and the benches, which were already broken from old age and disuse.

Applejack got to work painting the stage while Beshte got to work on the stage with a hammer. During which is where Fuli, Rarity, and Coco arrived with the dresses to which they all worked all day in making, and they all looked absolutely beautiful. There they saw things had improved but the stage still needs work.

Applejack dropped the paintbrush from her mouth once she saw them, "I know it looks bad, but we're movin' as fast as we can." She explained…right before getting her hoof stuck in the pain bucket.

"Don't worry, we've still got plenty of time." Rarity assured. "Everything's going to be-"

"Ehm, excuse me?"

The group of friends noticed four ponies approach them. They were the Method Mares actors and actresses that Coco had asked to perform at the revival. Two girls and two boys, with the older stallion serving as their leader.

"Is this where the Midsummer Theatre Revival is supposed to be, perchance?" He asked while adjusting his dark shades.

"We're here for the dress rehearsal?" The female pink pony wearing a french hat added.

"Oh, yes!" Coco said as she greeted them. "We've just put the finishing touches on the costumes."

The younger male Method Mare whispered to his female companion, "At least those look professional."

"We'll do a dry run of the play first, and then the fitting." The pink pony said as she approached the stage. The stage Beshte was still working on.

“Now hold it just a second there! I haven't finished-"

Once the pony stood on the stage, the roof above her began to crumble. Fuli quickly charged over and pushed both the pony and the hippo out of the way, shielding them from the collapse. A dust cloud formed around the area and once it cleared the stage was now in complete shambles. The roof was gone, the whole group gasped at seeing the whole thing completely destroyed.

"…reinforcing the stage yet."

Coco could feel her heart sink upon seeing this. All of that hard work they did was all for nothing.

Back at the apartment, Coco watched from her balcony the ruined stage and the improved park the only remarkable difference from their efforts.

She sighed sadly as she said in further despair. "I just wanted to live up to Charity's example, to bring my neighborhood together again! But the park is still a mess, we haven’t even thought about what refreshments to serve during the performance, and even if we had, we don’t have a stage for the Method Mare to perform on…just hopeless!"

Rarity, Fuli, Beshte, and Applejack were all feeling down as much as her. They honestly didn't know what else to do, even if they did improve the park better than it already was their stage was ruined and it would take hours just to build a new one.

"I don't understand." Rarity said in a hushed tone, "The map summoned us here to solve a friendship problem, we've clearly found it, but why did it send the four of us? Why not Twilight or Kion or even Kyoga? I'm sure they could have used their magic to transform this park in an instant!"

"Or Ono!" Fuli added. "He sure would have scanned out and stood up to all of those rude and mean ponies who all refused to stick out their neck's for this performance. And I’m sure even Bunga would even been able to encourage friendship in a heartbeat."

"I've been thinkin' the same thing." Applejack said while wearing her now damaged hat, "I mean, I can at least see why you're here, Rarity. Coco's your friend, and you have an eye for costumes and all. And as for you Beshte, you are one of the kindest, optimistic, and strongest kindred spirits of the bunch even in the face of stiff, high up, noisy, and abrasive bunch of ponies – but me? I was never gonna be able to finish a project this big, even with help!"

“At least the park is cleaned up…mostly.” Beshte tried to make light of the situation to little to no avail.

Rarity fell back, where Fuli was quick to catch her while she placed a hoof on her forehead dramatically, "We'll return to Ponyville as failures! Why must this be, Fuli? Why? Why? Wh-" Rarity suddenly stopped mid-rant when Fuli placed her paw over her mouth.

“For starters, please stop. And second and most importantly, I mean yes things aren’t going like we expected it to, but I’m certain that none of us are suggesting that we call it quits.”

"Then what are you suggesting-" Rarity said muffled with the cheetah’s paw still on her mouth before removing it, "Ptoo! Then what are you suggesting?"

“I’m suggesting that maybe instead of trying things the hard way maybe we should try things the easy way, like trying to find a quick and simple solution to the matter instead.”

"Yeah!” Applejack agreed knowing exactly what the cheetah is saying. “So maybe we should stop worryin' about what we can't do, and start doing what we can!"

“And I think I might know how we can do it.” Beshte said as he too was on the same page as the others. “Nothing big or fancy but really just something simple and definitely something."

Applejack nodded her head in agreement on board with what the Lion Guard’s Strongest has to offer as she placed a hoof on Coco's shoulder to assure her once more. "And somethin's gotta be better than nothin', right?"

"I suppose so…" The pony responded sadly still unsure after the last two attempts to try to help raise her spirits didn’t go well.

"That's the spirit! Sorta…"

Regardless, both Applejack and Beshte now knew what they have to do.

Applejack hammered the last nail in place while Beshte held the last board in place. Both she and Beshte had used various pieces of the old stage in order to build a brand new stage. It wasn't exciting and fancy but it was definitely very modest in design, enough to certainly gain other ponies' attention. It was positioned at the entrance of the park with two lanterns hanging from its side for light.

"Alright y'all, it's ready!" Applejack said right after she placed the hammer on her tool belt.

Coco's eyes sparkled with what she is now seeing with everything looked exactly as it did when Charity was still around. Something that said pony would be crying tears of joy if she was around to see this.

Once Applejack and Beshte got off the stage, the Method Mare's leader poked his head out from behind the curtain. "Should we go ahead and start?" He asked.

Coco nodded her head and Applejack pulled the curtain open to start the show. Much like the stage, nothing too big and Broadway style fancy but the background was painted very well on cardboard and they done with impressive and great attention to detail. The Method Mare's leader played the role of a business pony behind his desk, while the the oldest of the female Method Mares approached, playing the role of Charity Kindheart.

The play itself showcases of how the Midsummer Theater Revival came to be. The actress had her hair styled exactly like Charity and wore makeup to make herself look younger.

"Excuse me?" She said in an elderly voice. "I'm Charity Kindheart, I'm here about the open design position! I brought some samples of my work. I'm sorry I'm late. I had the hardest time finding my way here!"

As the play went on, Coco was amazed when a pony walking by had taken a moment to notice the play and sat down to enjoy it.

Then an earth pony and her Pegasus son were walking by when the little filly tugged on his mother's tail. "What is that?" He asked taking notice of what’s in front of them.

"I dunno, sugar, looks like some kinda play." The mother replied.

"Well, can we stay and watch it please? Please, can we, can we?"

"Oh alright, I suppose we could stay for a minute." The mother walked over towards the stage before finding a nice good area for them to sit for a good view.

"I'm sorry, but based on these samples, I just don't think this is the place for you." the Method Mare actor said, making the Charity actress gasp dramatically. "Don't get me wrong, these clothes are all exquisite, and well-made, but more theatrical than avant-garde. Have you considered costume design? I have a contact on Bridleway! If you're interested, I can put you in touch with him. And scene."

The curtain closed and the three ponies gave a small applause. Eventually, more and more ponies took notice of the play and smiles immediately appeared on their faces. Truth be told, most of them had grown up with the Midsummer Theater Revival plays, and now it was like remembering the good old times. More and more ponies gathered as they all took their seats as the play itself resumed.

The play carried on, showcasing the story of how Charity came up with the idea for the Midsummer Revival.

"Charity, dear, is that you?" an actress asked, dressed as an elderly mare.

"Hello, Mrs. Pearblossom!"

"Are these the costumes you've been working on?"

"Yes, I was supposed to be finished by now, but there's just so much to do, and I still have a few last-minute alterations to make before opening night! I'm sorry I couldn't get enough tickets for everypony in the neighborhood. I hope Mr. Pearblossom wasn't too disappointed. I know Trotter on the Roof is one of his favorites."

"Oh, my dear filly, don't worry about that. We're so proud of you! We shall be with you in spirit!"

"Thank you! You've all made me feel so welcome here, and have become like family to me! I just wish I could share this experience with you and the others!"

Charity's story was truly a heartfelt and inspirational one, it most certainly reached the hardened hearts of many residents of the town. A construction worker pony walked by, curious as to what was going on.

"Eh, what's goin' on?" He asked a pony that had the look in his eyes love at first sight at the mare.

"It's the Midsummer Theatre Revival." She happily replied. "The Method Mares are performing!"

"The Revival. Mhm, yeah, my pop used to bring me." The worker pony removed his hat and sat down beside the female pony to watch a replay of his childhood past.

“Wow.” Fuli commented feeling amazed and feeling her heartstrings pulled slightly. “Who would have thought that the biggest and strongest would have come up with a simple and small solution that actually works?”

Beshte sitting next to her simply shrugged. ”Like my dad used to say “Don’t knock it till you try it.”

Fuli nodded in agreement before they both focused their attention back to the play.

The sun then set to pave way for the nighttime sky to appear and by then a large group of ponies had witnessed the play, even the ponies who declined the offer to assist from before, now realizing they could have done more to help. This simple gesture was enough to bring an entire town for the first time in years.

The actress playing Charity Kindheart and the actress playing her elderly friend played out the final scene of the story and how Charity had found a way to bring so many ponies together.

"So nice of you to put on this play for the neighborhood." The actress playing the elderly pony said.

"I couldn't have done it without everypony's help!" The Charity actress said. "I know it's not Bridleway, but-"

"Oh, pish-tosh! It's perfect, dear!"

Coco couldn't wipe the smile off her face along with the tears of joy. If Charity were here right now she would be definitely proud to see everybody together again.

An elderly pony in the audience tried to find a good spot and a male pony kindly moves aside, allowing her to take her spot. She smiled at his gesture, "Oh, you're such a dear, thank you! This is so nice. Haven't seen the neighborhood this friendly since Charity moved away!"

Coco blushed in delight upon hearing this. After all of this time she had finally accomplished her goal in bringing back the spirit of family and community that Charity had started long ago. Rarity and Applejack smiled proudly at their friend, congratulating her on a job well done and the two ponies hoof pumped each other with Fuli and Beshte both doing the same with their front legs.

Once the play ended, the audience clapped and cheered. The Method Mares bowed before the audience and their leader spoke up, "Thank you, fillies and gentlecolts. Please give a warm welcome to the one who made this entire event possible, our neighbor, Coco Pommel!"

The pony couldn't stop blushing red cheeks once the audience lifted her up and carried her on towards the stage. She stood before them, smiling with such happiness on par the day she quit being Suri Polmare’s assistant.

"Thank you all so much for coming. The Midsummer Theatre Revival was always something that meant so much to me, and it seems it means quite a lot to all of you as well. I really can't take all the credit, though. My dear friends Rarity, Applejack, Fuli, and Beshten helped me ever so much."

The four friends waved at the audience who clapped loudly for them. Rarity and Beshte felt very comfortable while Fuli and Applejack blushed shyly. While Applejack's shyness was rather more of just the feeling of an audience, Fuli’s was more she couldn’t believe of how much everypony’s hearts turned around after the previous experience with the Manehattan ponies and all of it from a simple and small gesture. It was like her heart towards these kinds of ponies grew three times today much like when she rekindled her friendship with both Sally and Sassy.

"Oh darling, please, it was just a few costumes." Rarity humbly said to the audience thanking them for their hard work to make this all possible.

Applejack scratched the back of her neck equally humble as Rarity. "Aw shucks, I just happen to be good with a hammer, is all."

"All I did was suggest the idea that just happened to work.” Beshte also added equally humble as the rest of their friends. "Though we all probably won’t be here if it weren’t for Fuli to start looking at things from this angle."

Fuli simply shrugged with pink cheeks as she addressed to the audience, "To be honest, we had much bigger plans to start. When those fell through, we decided to simplify. This was the result."

"Oh, don't be so modest." Rarity shook her head at the very thought. "Coco and I were lost."

"You bet your boots we were!" Coco returned with a wink and a smile, to which was returned by both Applejack and Fuli.

After the play was over, the Method Mares and various other ponies happily chatted with one another, sharing stories, making new friends and sharing how much they loved the play itself. The worker pony even scored a date with the lovely female pony he just met.

Rarity, Applejack, Fuli, and Beshte all couldn't even begin to describe the happiness they felt at seeing everypony getting along. It was just like when both the Pride Lands and Equestria started forming a bond together. It was like two worlds under one big happy family.

The business pony who declined the offer to assist along with the pony whom Rarity gave her hat to when they first arrived, approached the group.

"We just wanted to say how much we enjoyed the Midsummer Theatre Revival, and how much it inspired us!" The female pony complimented.

The Business Pony removed his hat as he had his say in the matter. "I used to think that to help my community I had to do something big, heh heh. And let's face it, in this day and age, who has the time for such a commitment? But here, you did something as simple as building a stage and putting on a play, and, heh, look at how it's brought everypony together. That said I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive a pony who’s been turning a blind eye towards a simple heartfelt request, young cheetah."

“Of course I can as much as you can do the same for what I said and did before.” Fuli kindly returned as they both shook on it.

“Deal!”

"I saw Coco's flyers for volunteers but didn't think anything I'd have time to do would be that useful." The female pony added. "Now I wish I'd offered to help, even if it was just pulling a few weeds, or planting a few flowers."

Applejack smiled as she extended her hoof, showing them the park and the stage, "Not sure if you noticed, but the park is far from bein' fixed up. I imagine if you look around, you'll find there's lots of little ways for you to get involved in changin' this place for the better."

"And I will!” The female pony vowed with a smile.

"And I don't think we'll be alone!" The business pony also vowed before placing his hat back on and the two went back to speaking with their new friends.

Fuli then smiled when she noticed something glowing. "And would you look at it! A bright success much like the rising sun."

Rarity and Applejack felt a tingle and heard a ringing sound. Looking at their flanks they witnessed their cutie marks glowing brightly. The signal that told them that they had succeeded in their friendship mission here.

"Yee-hoo! We did it!" Applejack cheered before hugging Rarity, who kindly returned the gesture with both Fuli and Beshte joining in on the embrace, equally happy they had accomplished their mission together.

“And you know what else?” Fuli asked. “I think I understand it now!”

Rarity gasped as well as if she figured it out too. "Me too! It all makes perfect sense!"

“You do?” Both Applejack and Beshte asked in confusion as Rarity galloped ahead and purchased a hat from a nearby stand. One identical to Applejack’s current and now old previous hat, currently ruined from all of the park cleanup hardships it went through the last two days.

"We know why the map called you two here!"

"You do?" Applejack asked as Rarity replaced her old hat with a new and improved one.

"If Kion and Twilight had used their magic to fix the park, it wouldn't have fixed the real problem, which is that these Manehattan ponies didn't think they had time to do something for their community! But by building that stage and making sure the play went on, you showed them that just by doing something small, you can make a big difference!" Rarity explained.

"And by instead focusing on the more simple things rather than the big stuff we were able to get through to everypony’s hearts to remind them of the friendship it brings together."

“Well I’ll be!” Applejack commented amazed herself.

“Looks like the simple things in life are the best things a pony and anyone else could ask for.” Beshte commented equally amazed.

“It sure is.” Fuli returned feeling equally amazed at her hippo friend as they ended up helping each other out more than they realized.

Rarity placed a hoof on Applejack's shoulder as she then said with a knowing smile. "Seems you have more in common with the Manehattan ponies than you thought!"

Applejack laughed in response. "Heheh. But, all the same, I'd sure like to head back to Ponyville on the next train. I want to check in with Apple Bloom and find out how the Sisterhooves Social turned out."

"Oh, absolutely, my dear." Rarity suddenly gasped when she spotted something just across the street, "Just as soon as I stop that pony in the shop over there from purchasing that dreadfully hideous scarf!" She quickly rushed on over across the street to prevent that from happening. "Stop! You're making a terrible mistake!"

The three friends all laughed together as they watched their friend go off on her own accord to prevent yet another fashion disaster. Naturally, there are just some things really don't change when it comes a fashionable expert like her.

Author's Note

In this episode, once again the Cutie Map has called for another friendship mission, where Applejack, Rarity, Fuli, and Beshte are tasked of solving whatever it is in Manehattan. There they got to reunite with a new friend of Rarity's while helping her out restore beauty, peace, and love to the community when an forgotten memory of the city's past is being left alone and forgotten. But thanks to their efforts, it has all been restored and the community is thriving once again with happy hearts inside every pony.

Now, why I choose both Fuli and Beshte you may ask? Well for starters, Beshte's the Nice Guy who is very optimistic in trying to look on the bright side of things so it would make sense for him to offer the simplest ideas for a big problem as shown here in this trip.

As for Fuli, considering her personality clashing with ponies who have shown greater rudeness and abrasive along with dealing with ponies who took advantage of her friend in the past. It would makes sense why like Applejack she is not much of a Manehattan lover like Rarity. But on the bright side, for someone who looks to resolve things quickly and swiftly along with being the one to keep everyone from giving up at their lowest, she is one they needed for this job and it all worked out well for everyone.

Next up we will get to see the Sisterhooves Social once again only with both Applejack and Rarity out of town while this is happening it'll be the Brotherhooves Social coming up in regards to Apple Bloom when Big Mac decides to try to step up to fill their sister's horseshoes in her absence. With a lesson in being more open with each other up in the air, it should be interesting to see how it plays out, so stay tuned...

Episode 29: Brotherhooves Social

Episode 29:

Brotherhooves Social

"Oh, snickerdoodle! Where is the darned thing?" Granny Smith groaned as she searched left and right through the scattered and tall pile. "I wish for once I'd remembered to label these boxes!"

The elderly pony was searching the attic alongside her grandson, Big Macintosh and the Lion Guard’s Strongest, Beshte. As always, both the stallion and the hippo were more than happy to help out the former’s grandmother. True to his nature, to the Apple Family blood even as a friend to her grand stallion he is helpful and kind guy who is willing to help others out. Big Mac himself is happily content with what he is has now maybe a little more but still satisfied.

"Uh, Big Mac, be a dear and help me move those…" Granny Smith squinted her eyes a bit. "Uh, maybe it's in that one on the bottom."

Big Mac effortlessly balanced two of the boxes onto his muzzle, allowing his grandmother to look inside the third box. She removed the lid and smiled, hoping to find what she was searching for, but all she found was a variety of old baby toys from her grandponies' childhood which wasn’t what she was looking for.

“Did you find it?” Beshte asked.

"Oh, dagnabbit, it's not in there either!"

“Don’t worry! We’ll keep looking! Just let us know if you need any help.” Beshte assured and offered as Granny Smith continued her search, trying to find what she is looking for.

Before Big Mac could move to try to help her he became distracted by the sound of giggling. He looked out the window and saw his two sisters playing out in the yard like always. His eyes looked on sadly at the sight of them playing and getting along like best buds, two peas in a pod. A bond that they had ever since Applejack became a member of the newly formed Pony Guard. To Big Mac it was disheartening given that it reminded him of a time where he used to have that kind of bond with Apple Bloom but sadly that’s faded overtime. Deep down he wishes he could be rekindle that. But how?

“You can’t catch me!”

“Woo-hoo!”

“Hey!”

“You trickster!”

The two shared while practicing and having the best time of their life while they were at it.

Just seeing that really tore Big Mac up inside seeing that Applejack is essentially the hero of the Apple Family she looks up to nowadays. The role that Big Mac once had when she was a little filly. Back then he was the hero she admired but now that Applejack raised the bar in that regard it was now hard for him to be able to achieve that. But then his moment of heartbreak was interrupted when his grandmother spoke up.

"Sisterhooves Social is right around the corner. Thought it'd be nice to award the winner of the big race the ribbon from when we hosted the very first Social! If'n of course I could find the darn thing." Granny Smith tried to reach up towards a box only for Beshte to quickly catch her before she could fall.

“Please Granny Smith. Allow me.” He moved to slide the box right in front of her so she can open it properly.

Thankfully it was just a very light and only object inside of it to which Granny Smith smiled at upon seeing it.

"Oh, would you looky here!"

Big Mac checked to see what it was Granny had found. His green eyes slightly widened. It was a toy dragon fly on a stick with a happy face drawn on it. It was a very simple toy, but that was part of his charm. Big Mac remembered it well.

"My, how Apple Bloom used to love watching you make that thing fly." Granny Smith recalled with a smile, "It's like she thought you was magic." The memory made the stallion smile as he recalled the good old times with her.

“Did she really?”

“Yep.”

“She sure did.”

"Ah, right, enough reminiscing'. Gotta find that ribbon!" Granny continued her search for the missing ribbon while Big Mac picked up the toy with his mouth with a pondering idea in his mind.

Granny stretched up in an effort to reach the box above her, "If you would just help me—" she strained, "pull… this... box, then maybe I can... Uh, Big Mac?" She looked around to see her grandson was gone. Her weight crumbled underneath her hooves and she fell into a box.

“You okay?”

“Yep!” Her head popped up with a blue ribbon on her eye. "Found her!"

The two apple sisters practiced their routine for the Social one more time. They clapped their hooves and galloped while chanting, "S-I-S-T-E-R-S! Which two sisters are the best? We are! Apple Bloom and Applejack forever! Yee-hoo!"

"We're gonna win every competition at the Sisterhooves Social!" Apple Bloom happily expressed already looking forward to it already. "Those other fillies aren't gonna know what hit 'em!"

Before she could reply back at her little sister she spotted their older brother approaching with something held in his mouth. "Oh. Hey there, Big Mac! Did you want somethin'?"

"Eeyup." He replied. One of the only words he ever replies with.

"Hold that thought." She said before looking back up at her other older sibling. "Applejack, you are the most awesome sister ever!"

Applejack blushed and laughed shyly and humbly at the compliment. "Aw, gee-whiz. Well I think it's sweet that you hold that opinion, but—"

"It's not opinion! It's objective fact! You saved Equestria like a gazillion times! You're smart, funny, strong... Why you're the best sister of all time! Probably the best Apple of all time! Right, Big Mac?"

Big Mac's ears lowered in sadness before forcing them to perk up accompanied with a smile to avoid being seen as antagonistic as Scar would towards Mufusa. "Eeyup." Deep down he couldn't argue with them and he is proud of what an amazing pony Applejack is…he just wished Apple Bloom would do the same for him.

"And with you by my side, I am guaranteed to taste sweet, sweet Sisterhooves Social victory!" Apple Bloom said while adorably galloping around her big sister, unknowingly rubbing salt in Big Mac’s internal wound. "Go, Apples, go, go, go, Apples go!"

"Uh, Apple Bloom? I think Big Mac's got somethin' he wants to show you." Applejack allowed her older brother to finally do what he came here to do. She observed him the whole time and she knew just by the look in his eyes that he wanted to do something for his younger sister. With a wide smile he took the toy by the stick with his large hooves and twisted it several times before releasing it. It spun and twirled and flew up into the air for several moments before landing on the ground. Big Mac awaited for his little sister's reaction.

"Oh, hey. Is that the toy we used to play with when I was little?"

"Eeyup!"

"Neat. Alright then! Let's get back to practicin'!" She said to her older sister, before happily hoping along. Big Mac's ears lowered sadly in response to the little thought she gave into it. He didn't even know why he thought this would impress her. Apple Bloom was too old to be enchanted by such a silly party trick. He wasn't really needed here so he walked away back into the barn to carry on his work.

While Apple Bloom wanted to practice some more, Applejack knew something was bothering her brother upon paying close attention to his expressions despite his trademark stoicism. It was like when he presented the toy he was trying to get her to remember the good times they spent playing together as much as she does to Applejack nowadays. While she knew and the three Apple siblings grew loving each other equally with Apple Bloom being the pride and joy in both Big Mac and Applejack’s hearts, like father and mother, it didn’t take much observation to know that her big brother is feeling a little more distant than closer much like her and Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom balanced several pins with her muzzle before they collapsed. "One more run-through of our jugglin' routine, make sure our harmonies are tight in our song, and see if we can't beat our best pie-eatin' time!" She said while holding a pie in her hoof.

"Hold on, sugarcube. I need a minute to talk with Big Mac." Applejack walked towards the barn in order to have a private heart to heart and word for word with him.

"Mind if I go ahead and start eatin' this pie?!" Apple Bloom asked…right before stuffing her face into the pie she had in her hooves.

Once inside, Applejack saw Big Mac happening on an anvil. One glance is all it took for her to tell that he is deep down distraught even if he doesn’t want to admit it.

"Hey, Big Mac, you all right?" She asked with compassionate concern.

"Yup." Big Mac replied with a sight before placing the hammer back down and walked on over to the other side of the barn in order to rearrange the rakes and gardening tools.

"You sure? You seemed a little down back there."

Big Mac scoffed in response. "Nope."

"Come on, you can tell me. You feelin' a little left out? Apple Bloom and I have been spendin' a lot of time together gettin' ready for the Social." Big Mac's expression saddened even more and Applejack placed a hoof over his shoulder, but before she could say anything else she felt a sudden tingling sensation on her flank. She gasped and saw what was happening.

"What in the…?"

"Your cutie mark!" Apple Bloom cheered once she entered the barn and saw her sister's cutie mark glowing. "You're being summoned, Applejack! This is so cool!"

“So is mine!” Beshte stated upon rushing inside the barn when it happened accompanied with his Mark of the Guard and cutie mark glowing at the same time.

To Big Mac however, it was nothing but another piercing nail in his coffin as he sighed and lowered his ears in annoyance. "Eeyup." He remarked with barely contained bitterness.

"Wonder where you're bein' called to." Apple Bloom wondered with a smile. "Wonder what you're supposed to do when you get there. Obviously to somethin' awesome because you're awesome!" Her smile sudden dropped with her eyes widening in horror of what that means for them. "But… But if you're bein' summoned to solve a friendship problem, that means you'll have to miss the Sisterhooves Social! And if you have to miss the Social, then I'll have to miss the Social, which means I won't be able to taste sweet, sweet victory!"

The poor filly started to panic as she greatly worries that all of that waiting and preparation for this event was all for nothing.

"Now calm down." Applejack quickly said with her cutie mark still glowing. "Let me just go over to Twilight's castle and see what's what! Maybe it's just a false alarm."

Apple Bloom smiled in relief. Maybe she had nothing to worry about after all…

One visit to the castle and back later…

"But you said it was a false alarm!"

"I said maybe it's a false alarm." Applejack clarified as she already had her things packed into a blanket on a stick and was preparing for the trip along with Beshte. "Well, it's not. Rarity, Beshte, Fuli, and I have to go to Manehattan."

"Can't you just tell that map it'll have to wait a couple days?" Apple Bloom pleaded.

Applejack can only shake her head in response. "No can do, sugarcube. When duty calls, I gotta answer right away." She then hugged her little sister goodbye. "What kind of an example would I be settin' for my little sister if I didn't?"

"This can't be happening! Your extreme awesomeness is backfiring on me!" Apple Bloom already upset ran off to cry in her room, leaving Applejack to sigh sadly. She didn't blame her for reacting like this as she too had wanted to do the social again too, and she too was hoping to wow the competition with her big sister.

Applejack sighed sadly acknowledging the poor filly’s sudden distraught feelings. "I'm sorry, Apple Bloom." She turned towards her big brother, who stood at the entrance along with Beshte. "Try and cheer her up, won't you? I won't feel right if she's so upset."

"Eeyup." Big Mac promised with his simple one word reply.

“Good luck!” Beshte then said before leaving. At the same time he thought to himself. “Good thing it’s just the Sisterhooves Social otherwise Mtoto would be feeling the same way.”

Applejack packed up the last of her necessities before heading off to tackle this friendship mission alongside his strong partner with the hopes that things will work out. Especially since Fuli who is not exactly a Manehattan pony like her or friend to get along with those ponies especially those who get on her nerves is accompanying them.

“She sure is taking this pretty hard. Huh?” Beshte said once they had left Sweet Apple Acres.

“Yep.”

“Think your brother can cheer her up?”

“Yep.”

“Even if he feels a little left out and maybe a little overshadowed.”

“I think so. I mean I admit she has been looking up to be a little more nowadays but I reckon that if Big Mac can at least talk with her about how he truly feels there shouldn’t be too much trouble.”

“You think.”

“Maybe eventually but maybe not as far as whatever trouble he stirs up from keeping his feelings all bottled up as always.”

“Fair enough.”

Deep down they can see why Big Mac is feeling out of sorts even if he doesn’t want to admit, alas, due to their mission there’s nothing they can do about it. All they can hope for now is that they both talk it out and rekindle their relationship with little to no trouble. Hopefully.

Back at Sweet Apple Acres, Big Mac walked up towards Apple Bloom's room and knocked. He opened his mouth ready to speak before her little sister quickly answered with. "I don't wanna talk right now."

Big Mac then closed his mouth and walked away knowing it was best to leave her alone while personally wondering of how he can help cheer her up.

"Breakfast, come and get it!"

The following morning, Granny Smith prepared Apple Bloom's favorite; oatmeal with hey oats with a side of hay, pineapple slices and strawberries. But the poor filly wasn't hungry due to her ongoing depression.

In an attempt to cheer up Big Mac placed his plate onto his face and used his vegetables to make a funny face. The carrots were used as tusks, the lettuce for his eyebrows and the grass was sticking out of his ears. Sadly it did nothing to help put a smile on her face as she pushed her plate away and hid her face in response.

"Oh, it's no use, Big Mac." Granny said with nothing but sympathy for the poor child. "If I know my Apple Bloom, she won't come out of a funk this funky 'til her big sister gets back."

Big Mac sighed sadly feeling equal sympathy for her with nothing he’s tried worked wonders in cheering his little sister up.

Just then there was a knock on the door and two familiar little fillies entered. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo her fellow crusaders.

"Hey, Apple Bloom." Sweetie Belle greeted, "The Social's gonna start in a few hours. Thought you might want to go with us."

The two fillies were accompanied by several other friends; Twilight, Spike, Kion, Kiara, Sunset, Ono, Bunga, and Shakku.

"What are ya'll doin' here?" Apple Bloom asked upon seeing everyone here to greet her.

“Here to help cheer up, that’s why!” Bunga stated while friendly jabbing her on the elbow. “We figured that since we have the day off today, a trip to the Social is in order!”

Apple Bloom was a little hesitant to accept the offer before Kion moved to speak heart to heart to her. “I know you’re upset that Applejack couldn’t be here today but I think you consider coming rather than leaving you to mope around the barn all day long.”

“And I’m pretty sure Applejack would say the same thing if she were here and still couldn’t compete.” Kiara added.

"Plus, you can cheer me and Rainbow Dash while we compete!" Scootaloo pointed out.

"Along with me and Twilight!" Sweetie Belle added. "Thanks to her I can compete too while Rarity’s away."

The alicorn simply shrugged just seeing this as the least she could do. “What can I say? It’s better than nothing."

“And they’re okay with that?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Of course. As long as I play it fair like any other unicorn they won’t take issue to an alicorn in the playing field.”

“Pretty cool considering even though you’re not related to her. Not to mention the fact that they are allowing you two to compete even though you aren't really ponies.” Sunset commented.

"Well, the Social's always had a pretty loose definition of what consti-ma-tutes a sister." Granny Smith explained, "As long as you share a bond that represents the spirit of the Social, you're in!"

“Great!” Kion commented feeling pleased to hear that. “And I can say right now it’ll be nice to be able to do something together today.”

“No kidding. It’s about time you and the rest of the Guard got a day off today.” Kiara added in agreement already looking for to the Social.

“You’ve said it!”

"So what do you say? You coming?" Sweetie Belle asked, hoping Apple Bloom would reconsider.

“There will be popcorn and candy.” Bunga chimed in. “And we won’t tell Applejack about it if you do help yourself to some.”

Apple Bloom sighed sadly in response. "Why not...? Got nothin' better to do... Lemme wash up and I'll meet you in a little bit."

The group of friends headed out forward, all sadly looking back at the little filly, who face palmed herself into the table still upset at the last minute friendship mission calling her big sister away.

Sunset however moved to see if there was more she could do to help the distraught filly out of her funk. "I'll be back!" She informed Kion and Twilight before moving inside to find her under her grandmother's comfort. "She's sure taking this hard isn't she?"

“She sure is. Such a shame we don't live closer to all your second cousins." Granny replied with a sigh, "You could maybe do the Social with one of them instead."

Then, Big Mac felt like a light bulb went off in his head as he got an idea to which Granny Smith took notice of. "What is it, Big Mac? Y'all got an idea?"

"Eeyup!"

Apple Bloom smiled and leaped up at her brother, "What? What is it?!"

Big Mac's only response was a sly grin. In his mind, he believed this plan was not only perfect…but a chance for him to reconnect with little sister again. To him, it was worth doing.

"If I didn't know any better I'd say he's thinking about wanting to the social with you in your big sister Applejack's place." Sunset deduced.

"Big Mac?! Going to the social with me?!" Apple Bloom looked on like it is the craziest thing she's ever heard in her life. "I mean yes he might have had a big mind and a lot to say but I doubt that could happen, I mean considering this is the Sisterhooves Social."

"Doesn't stop Kion from competing with Kiara."

"I know but he doesn't have experience with the competition it has. There's synchronized singing, talents, dancing, and of course that obstacle course at the very end. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that he can't do it if he wanted to but I still don't think we're going to win. And also...you know..."

"Right, right. Because nothing can replace Applejack, especially since you were looking forward to it all year only for something to interfere with at the last second."

"Right. You know what I'm saying?!"

"Yes." She said rather solemnly in reply before shaking it off for the time being. "But it is what it is, and if Big Mac does want to do the Social with you, I think you should at least try to allow him to partake in the event with you. Even though I'm the last pony to be saying it's better than nothing win or lose, I think he is still worth spending time with."

"I don't know."

Seeing that Apple Bloom is still having a hard time understanding why she is telling her this she decided it was best to leave but not without having one more thing to say. "Very well. But if you ask me I'd say it's better than spending the day alone feeling sorry for yourself."

While Apple Bloom was left to ponder her thoughts, she was left wondering why and what did she mean by that. Was she telling her what she needed to hear, or reflecting on her current state, or both.

Just then she was suddenly broken from her train of thought when her grandmother came inside looking very happy for her. "Great news, Apple Bloom. It's seems you'll be able to go to the Sisterhooves Social after all!"

"Really?!"

"Uh-huh."

"Well, who is it? Who?!"

Granny smiled as she was sure one way or another it'll work out in the end...

At the Social, Spike, Bunga, and Shakku all got food and drinks to last them the day so they can watch the event. Much like in the past, the Sisterhooves Social attracting a handful ponies from sisters, to cousins, second cousins, sisterly-mentors like Rainbow Dash was for Scootaloo, step-sisters, foster sisters, adopted sisters, all of the above.

At the same time, Scootaloo was bursting with excitement, she couldn't wait to compete with Rainbow Dash. To her it is a great opportunity to be able to compete with her idol and honorary big sister who loved her like one.

"Today is our big day!"

"We have so got this. I'm gonna go sign us in." The blue Pegasus headed towards the judged booth while Twilight and Sweetie Belle approached her, already having signed in. Rainbow Dash smiled at her friend. "And I hope you are ready for this, Twilight."

“I was going to say the same about you.” Twilight returned with a smirk.

“Well I guess I beat you to it!” Rainbow bragged while Twilight playfully rolled her eyes in response.

“Just don’t get too cocky my friend because that’s asking for karma finding it’s calling.” Just then a pie suddenly hit Rainbow in the face much to both horned ponies amused giggling delight. “Ding dong, it’s for you!”

Rainbow shook the pie off her face shrugging it off like it never happened. “Well played my friend. Well played. But mark my words, by the end of the day we’ll see who’s laughing in the end.” She laughed as she flew on ahead to get herself and Scootaloo signed up while Twilight shook her head in amusement given that they do rib on each other from time to time.

"Thanks for volunteering to be my big sister for the social, Twilight." Sweetie Belle gratefully said.

"You’re welcome. It’s too bad Rarity couldn’t join you this year. I know how much she was looking forward to it and I hope that we can still have a good time together.” Twilight kindly returned with the only goal on her mind other than knowing that no other pony, not even her can replace Rarity.

"I wouldn’t expect anything less from you." She assured that they’ll still have a great time together win or lose.

Kion and Kiara were walking on towards the registration table at that moment as they approached the two ponies.

“Hey Twilight, already signed in!”

“Yep! And you?”

“Just about to do the same.”

“Feeling ready!” Kiara asked with a determined smirk.

Twilight returned it in kind. “Ready!”

“Speaking of ready…” Kion brought up as he looked around for a certain pony. “…is Apple Bloom going to join our friends in the stands? It’s almost time for the first event to start.”

"I don't know." Sweetie Belle replied unsure herself being unable to spot her. "I thought she was gonna be here too."

"Guess she changed her mind." Scootaloo suggested.

“She is! Look!” Bunga pointed out to a certain filly approaching them along with the unicorn accompanying them.

"Hey, there you are!" Scootaloo happily greeted along with Sweetie Belle.

"You ready to cheer us to victory?"

"Uh, not exactly." Apple Bloom replied unsure herself, as if she had something to tell them. "Seems I'm gonna get to participate after all."

Sweetie Belle gasped hoping this is what she thinks it is. "Applejack is back from Manehattan already?"

“And Rarity?” Twilight asked hoping the same for Sweetie Belle.

"No, our sisters are still gone." Apple Bloom replied while shaking her head. "But it, uh... turns out my long lost cousin... 'Orchard Blossom' was able to make it last minute." She gave a nervous laugh, which stirred curious expressions from the others

"Your cousin who what now?"

"Sunset?" Twilight asked wondering if she happens to know more about her.

"You'll find out, who exactly she is." She replied already looking uncomfortable with what she had just saw.

And at that moment, the group heard a voice coming from behind them and once they saw where and who it came from their eyes widened and their jaws dropped at the very sight…

Big Macintosh! In a dress! “Well I do declare! It's hotter today than the business end of a corncob pipe!" He giggled upon arriving.

He wore a blond curled wig and pink lipstick on his lips, a pair of black slippers, and a light blue southern belle style dress with a pink ribbon around the chest and blue apple prints on the dress. He also wore fake eyelashes and spoke in a Southern Belle accent amazingly.

Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, Shakku and Bunga were literally and utterly jaw-dropped speechless at the sight as the latter two had popcorn and soda drop out of their mouths like water going down a waterfall.

“What in the Pride Lands?!”

“What in Equestria!”

Both leaders of the Guard exclaimed in shock while shielding both Spike and Sweetie Belle’s eyes with Twilight’s eye twitching at the very sight of it.

“What the…Big Mac!” Kiara exclaimed while shielding Scootaloo’s eyes with one paw while closing both Bunga and Shakku’s mouths with her other paw.

Apple Bloom was sweating like she was standing on a stranded slab in the very center of the volcano. To think that anyone would actually not recognize him at first glance, he sure would be dead wrong. Though, Big Mac still pressed forward with it.

"Oh, my! I'm so delighted to meet your little friends, Apple Bloom. Would these be your dear and beloved Cutie Mark Crusaders?" He said still speaking in the Southern Belle voice. "And these must be the Prince and Princesses, Kion, Twilight Sparkle, and Kiara, if I’m not mistaken."

“Um…”

“…Yeah.”

“That’s us!”

They all greeted while keeping Spike, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo close to their side like he loves children way too much.

Apple Bloom sighed before 'introducing' her cousin to her friends, "Everybody, cousin Orchard Blossom."

"It is my extra-ordinary pleasure to make your acquaintance."

The group's expressions turned from jaw dropped shock to downright deadpan expressions as they all turned towards Apple Bloom, who smiled nervously at them all.

"That's Big Mac in a dress." Sweetie Belle was the first to speak with a deadpan tone and expression.

"And doing a pretty bad job at acting like a lady." Kiara added in the same deadpan tone.

"Yep." Sunset commented equally dry and deadpan as the others along with feeling a migraine from just seeing the dress and drag attempt itself.

It was pretty clear that he is not fooling anyone, even while remaining in character. In fact, both Bunga and Shakku busted out laughing at him just finding this whole cringe-worthy scene a comedic masterpiece.

"Big Mac? Why, as charmed as I am that you find me in the slightest resemblance to such a-a-a fine and noble product of the Apple clan. I am astonished in equal measure. However, I shall take this startling observation under advisement given that it's from such an astute and perceptive filly as yourself, Sweetie Belle."

The young unicorn simply played along for his sake. "That's awful nice of you to say, cousin Orchard Blossom! I've been told before I'm pretty observant."

"I haven't the slightest doubt."

“Um…Orchard Blossom, are you sure you are up to compete in the Social today?” Kion asked after clearing his throat.

“Why of course, Prince Kion. I’m as fine as a next strong and beautiful mare like Princess Twilight.” Twilight blushed and looked aside in embarrassment. While flattered, she found it rather awkward to hear someone say that about her.

“Even though your getup is quite unnatural for a competition that involves physical activity?” Kion pressed with a raised eyebrow.

“Absolutely. Why wouldn’t it be?”

“Well considering that our friends are able to tell who you really are. It should be pretty obvious that everyone else will do the same once you step forward to the starting line. Seriously! I don’t think you should doing this, at least not while wearing that red-flag disguise that’ll frighten parents with their fillies. Please just reconsider.”

“Don’t you worry your worried tail, my fury friend. I’m tip top on those choo choo bucks on a cinder block. So if you’ll excuse me I got a cousin to compete alongside with.” He then said while pinching his cheeks before moving to stand tall and proud up while walking away from the lion cub who could only look on confused and annoyed while rubbing where the stallion pinched him.

“This is not going to end well is it?” Bunga asked.

“Nope.”

At the judges table, one of the mares looked up and dropped the pencil she carried with her mouth once she Big Mac’s appearance as if she is one of the most sourest apples she has seen in her life. The other fellow judge looked on in agreement.

"Pardon me. My dearest cousin Applejack is regrettably unable to be here as planned, so I, her cousin Orchard Blossom, will accompany Apple Bloom in her stead. I trust that's acceptable to all concerned?"

But while the two female judges looked on in surprise, the only male one smiled at the sight of her. To him this is his dream woman; strong but feminine. While Big Mac himself was a little creeped out himself, he still felt sure and confident that is disguise is working like he though it would.

"Cousin Orchard Blossom, huh?"

Big Mac spun around and started to sweat anxiously when he saw both Rainbow Dash and Twilight stand before him with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. The two fillies giggled while Twilight simply looked on unconvinced and disapproving of him for his act. Rainbow Dash eyed him suspiciously, even as one of the most daring and hot-headed ponies, she isn’t gullible. She was one of the first ponies who caught on to Scar’s plan to kill her, Twilight, Sunset, and Spike inside the Outlands Volcano after all.

"I know Applejack has a lot of relatives, but I feel like she would've mentioned you."

Big Mac did his best to keep his cool as he continued with his act in an effort to throw off the pony, "Why, you must be Rainbow Dash. You're Scootaloo's... say... how are y'all related again?"

Rainbow Dash's eyes still looked on silently wondering why he is doing this to himself before deciding to carry on as usual even though she doesn’t buy it. “Hm. Why don't I just let you finish signing in?" She said politely before speaking in a hushed tone. "But don't think me and Scootaloo are gonna take it easy on you just 'cause you're a stallion!"

As she and Scootaloo walked off, Big Mac tried to smooth the situation while laughing, "Now, where were we?" He placed his large hooves onto the table, only to have it crumble and crash due to his large weight. Apple Bloom was already starting to panic knowing that the disguise will give way at any moment now. The disguise itself is as clear as day and he isn’t fooling anypony. If their friend aren’t convinced then no one else will and that could spell trouble for them later on.

"Um, excuse me. I have to... go to the bathroom." The little filly zipped away as fast as she could so she could try to get away from it all before it could explode right in front of her face.

"You mean 'powder your muzzle', don't you, dear?" Big Mac corrected to her in his fake accent before addressing back to the judges, "Such a more, uh, feminine-like reference to nature's call, don't you agree?"

The lion siblings could only look on in dismay that Big Mac is really going through with all of this.

“I tried to tell him but he wouldn’t listen.” The younger brother said.

“Of course he won’t.” The older sister replied as it’s pretty clear to them that he is just asking for embarrassment.

Elsewhere, Twilight and Sweetie Belle managed to find Apple Bloom hiding behind a barrel, all while hiding her face with her large pink bow.

"Have they called your brother's bluff yet?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"No, but they're about to!"

"It’ll be okay.” Twilight attempted to assure her. “Maybe you’ll both do well. Maybe you might win a blue ribbon while you’re at it if lucky.” Apple Bloom still covered her face with her hooves in response.

"I can't bear to watch!"

"Yoo-hoo! Apple Bloom!" Big Mac called out to his younger sister, while other ponies looked on very confused, shocked, and concerned at him. "They've approved us as a pair! Hurry along now, precious!"

Apple Bloom was left in a state of jaw-drop shock at what she had just heard. "I can't believe they bought it!"

“Me neither.” Twilight said. “But if you ask me, I think it’s sweet he wants to help you out like this. Weird, but sweet."

Sweetie Belle tugged onto Twilight’s arm eager to get started. “Come on, Twilight! We got a social to win together!”

“Lets! Good luck!”

Apple Bloom waved goodbye to her friends before approaching her big brother. Or cousin more accurately, for today.

From the bleachers, Spike, Sunset, Bunga, and Shakku all watched the events unfold. They cheered for Rainbow, Twilight, Kion, and Kiara but were still unsure about Big Mac.

“Got the popcorn?” Spike asked.

Bunga presented said item. “Yep.”

“The nuts?”

Shakku presented said item too. “Yep.”

“Great!” Spike said while presenting three more large cups of soda and bags of chips. “And I don’t suppose Big Mac is backing out from all of this, right?”

“Nope." they both replied.

“Okay.” He shrugged before taking his seat next to the honey badger and mongoose as they prepared to watch the events unfold, hopefully with good fortune and good entertainment.

The Sisterhooves Social then began. Like every other year in the past, many pairs of sisters all participated in various activities they had offer like years before. Singing, talent competitions, and there’s even the obstacle course at the very end too. The first competition was a singing contest. Once the first two pony sisters finished their song, Kion and Kiara sang a song their mother would sing to them the night before she would have to leave with their father to visit the elephants after Ma Tembo’s father passed away. The two sang their song in beautiful harmony while Spike strummed a guitar.

Remember Me

Once the song ended, the audience all cheered and applauded for them. Their song was so beautiful and heartfelt. Even though the two would often argue, that didn't mean they didn't love each other deep down. Twilight couldn't help but shed a tear at the song as what would happen was a heartfelt lesson they would come to learn that would help them bond more than they used to. Not to mention that Nala would sing to her the time she dreaded the day that someday Celestia can’t be there for her who would also sing to her whenever came the day she had to go away tending to her royal duties. At the same time behind everyone's backs, Sunset quickly donned a pair of sunglasses to hide away the tears that were coming out of her eyes like the song unintentionally cut into her really deep.

The male pony, Booth Barker, approached the stage and congratulated the two lions, who took a bow while holding hands. "Bravo, bravo! Weren't those two sisters great? Now, where are our next competitors?"

"Here we are!" Big Mac called out and gently shoved a still nervous Apple Bloom ahead onto the stage. Even though everything was going fine so far, it could change at any moment. They passed by Kion and Kiara, who both gave them the thumbs up before they got onto the stage. Apple Bloom smiled nervously at Booth Baster, who like everyone else was equally surprised to see who the filly was with, but did not say anything considering that said pony is allowed to compete with her.

Big Mac pulled out and presented a record for the pony to play on his phonograph. "This one, please."

"Excellent choice... ma'am."

Apple Bloom could feel her knees shaking and trembling upon seeing the audience before her. She could spot all of her friends giving her the thumbs and hoofs up while Bunga and Shakku both waved a little flag with an apples on it, to help motivate and encourage her otherwise. Their motivation was enough to calm her down. She looked up at her 'cousin' and spoke in a hushed tone.

"You sure you know all the words? 'Cause it took Applejack a pretty long time to get it down."

"Did it now?" Big Mac only smiled in response once the song started playing. Apple Bloom began singing and, to her surprise, her brother managed to both keep her Orchard Blossom voice while singing perfectly in tune. Well not perfect perfect, but perfect enough for a good start.

Apple Bloom and Big Mac:

“We all love our brothers

And our fathers and mothers

We honor them like every family should

But there's somethin' that's quite unique

When my sister's there with me

And we share that special bond of sisterhood.”

Every one of their friends watching all sighed in relief upon seeing that their song is going smoothly…so far.

Apple Bloom;

“Sisterhood.”

Big Mac:

“Sisterhood.”

Apple Bloom;

“Is a special kind of friend.

Sisterhood.”

Big Mac:

“Sisterhood.”

Apple Bloom:

“Is a bond that never ends.”

Apple Bloom and Big Mac:

“It's not always perfect

You might fight or be misunderstood

But together you'll always have sisterhood.”

Big Mac:

“Sisterhood.”

Apple Bloom:

“Sisterhood.”

But as the song went on, Big Mac was really getting into the act. A little too much, actually. While Apple Bloom kept on singing, her brother danced and frolicked around the stage.

Big Mac:

“Sisterhood.”

Apple Bloom:

“Sisterhood.”

Big Mac:

“Sisterhood.”

Apple Bloom:

“Sisterhood.”

Big Mac now singing in his deep bass tone from Pony Tones sang.

“Sisterhood!”

Apple Bloom cringed at the last note seeing that he nearly gave them away by singing that that too deeply. The other ponies began to chatter with one another, all rather surprised by the pony's sudden deeper change in tone to the point they really didn’t have anything to say or cheer about it with the only pony the male judge happily clapping for their performance.

“Wow!” Was all Spike could say in response.

“Um…well…that was um…” Bunga tried to make light of it.

Shakku shook his head in response. “Awkward Bunga, it’s awkward! There’s no other word for it! Awk-ward!” He pronounced with emphasis.

"Well said." Sunset commented in agreement.

All Apple Bloom could do was laugh nervously before addressing the pony beside her. "Are you okay, cousin Orchard Blossom? You sounded like you were catchin' a cold or somethin' else that would make your voice sound totally different right at the end of the song."

Big Mac quickly caught on and realized his slip up. He adjusted his dress and reverted back to his Orchard Blossom persona. "Just a frog in my throat, dear. Probably just need to get a sip of water. If you'll excuse us, we've another event in which to participate."

The two left the stage, leaving the audience still stunned and baffled at what they just saw.

"Oh, my, that certainly didn't go as I had planned." Big Mac said. "But don't you worry. We'll get you a blue ribbon yet, Apple Bloom."

"You sure about that?" The filly asked while arching an eyebrow.

'As sure as my name is cousin Orchard Blossom."

"But that isn't your name!" Apple Bloom said to herself now feeling incredibly uneasy once again. If only this was the Brotherhooves Social then both she and Big Mac could have spared themselves the trouble and embarrassment they are now dealing with.

Just when she stepped to the side from her brother at the moment, she is then greeted by her friends from the stands incoming both Kion and Kiara who both won blue ribbons for winning the singing competition.

"Great job, Apple Bloom." Kion complimented. "And that sure was quite a finish there."

“Thanks but I’m pretty sure I lost.”

“Well considering of how shocking that last verse was, yeah.” Kiara agreed somewhat bluntly. “But point being you still did well and that’s something you should at least be proud of.”

“I know but there’s no way I’m gonna win the social this year at this rate.”

“I understand, Apple Bloom.” Kion said sympathetically while lowering down to her eye level. “But with all things considered, I think you should at least continue to try to give a chance. I mean considering what your big brother did so he could do the social with you, I think that’s worth doing and trying to have some fun together.”

“You mean my cousin?!” She asked with an arched eyebrow.

“Right of course, you still you get the point.”

“Yeah!” Spike agreed. “I mean if I remember one of the old sayings, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” In your case, when life gives you a different apple, make a new kind of apple cider.”

“And even if it doesn’t taste as great as the real deal you can least take the time to appreciate of what it has to offer.” Bunga added in agreement while getting the analogy.

“Not to mention there are still more opportunities for you and your br…I mean cousin to win. Starting with the talent competition that’s starting up in just a bit.” Shakku pointed out while leaping onto her back. “I think I can speak for all of us that win or lose you both have nothing to worry about.”

“Maybe so.” Apple Bloom came to agree with what they are trying to tell her. “Win or lose I’ll still have fun and that’s what truly matters, right?”

“Exactly!” Spike stated in agreement just when the filly moved to rejoin her brother. “Good luck out there!”

“Though she’s sure going to need it.” Bunga commented while munching on popcorn after she was out of earshot.

“Yep.” He agreed with crossed fingers along with the others that had fingers they could cross too.

As for the one pony who hadn't said anything during this conversation, she only looks on with nothing to say about it, having already spoken her mind beforehand. She could only look on mentally telling her "The best of luck, Apple Bloom."

Apple Bloom smiled at their encouragement yet, seeing Sunset a little down herself sparks another concern in her mind aside from what she said to her back at the farm.

Next up is the talent competition. Much like the last one, both Kion and Kiara were the first to perform. Their routine was something that much like the other’s. Said performance involved a hill of rocks and mountains in front of them much like for when their mother took them out a trip to the Trail of Udugu.

They both took stances as they both prepared to tackle the challenge they once went through with both their mother and best friend for guidance. Once they pressed forward into the thorn bushes in front of them. Initially they seemed a little lost but deep down they knew what they were doing. With the power of combined teamwork, they were able sniff and track the clearest way through the patch with ease. Once that was out of the way, they then approached the Cliffside where by using the teamwork in supporting each other to climb over each other while climbing upwards up until they reached the top to cap off their performance, thus earning them a round of galloping applause from the audience.

Next up is Twilight Sparkle and Sweetie Belle. For their performance they had red roses held in between their ears before they stepped forward onto a wooden patio. Between the two performing together they both shared knowing smiles at each other since this performance is something that she has performed alongside Rarity once before.

When their performance began, music began playing courtesy of one of the judges when Twilight nodded at them that they are ready. Tango music. The two started off by approaching each other until they grouped up at the center of the stage where the older pony worked up her magic in having fire appear around them at the same time Sweetie Belle had water appear with her magic. The older pony twirled the younger one around before they both held hooves as they danced together while the magic from their hooves had traded control of fire and water together. Much like with Rarity once before, the two gracefully manipulated their respected elements as they danced the tango together in perfect sync together. It lasted a few minutes before the two swirled together courtesy of Twilight using her magic alongside Sweetie Belle’s to dispel of the fire with the water held in the latter’s magic. Much like before when the steam and smoke cleared up the two appeared with Twilight hoisting the little filly up with one hoof while standing on her back hooves who is carrying a red rose in one of front hooves and standing for her finishing pose while balancing herself one of her back hooves. The audience all cheered and applauded in awe at the sight with the wooden patio still standing with no scorch marks on it. To everyone it was a beautiful work of art to behold.

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were next. For their performance they choose something more along the lines of action. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo then performed a series of flips and leaps as they had ponies dressed as Outsiders trying to come their way to attack. Since it was all an act the kicks and punches they used weren’t as hard and powerful as the ones she would have used on any opponent, since these are friends they are dealing with. But the little filly had learned enough fighting skills to incorporate with her scooter skills that she had no fear of doing it.

Upon charging ahead towards a ramp with an incoming pony wearing the Janja paper face mask she simply leaped up and charged forward. She simply lifted her scooter up with her at the same time the pony leaped up causing the Janja-pony to get knocked aside in the face and fly backwards thus creating a dirt ring into the ground when he landed. She then leaped across the ramp to the other ramp with ease before spinning around triumphantly at the same time Rainbow tackled the pony wearing the Reirei face mask. She moved to tackle the pony up until they got to the ramp where the pony leaped up and performed a boost kick to propel herself to the other side to join her companion with a front flip. Once the routine was over, the audience cheered where both ponies shared a hug together.

Spike, Bunga, and Shakku all equally cheered for the three teams, they were all so spectacular it was amazing. Next up were Apple Bloom and Big Mac. The little filly wasn't sure how this was going to work since her brother is rather large and heavy in size.

For their performance, they performed something simple. Synchronized juggling. They both juggled bowling pins on their front hooves while trading pins before getting down on their backs so they can balance their pins on all four hooves. So far so good, the two were trading and juggling pins like tackling apple trees together. The more the act went on the more pins would be tossed into the mix with the goal being to work up to ten pins each. So far the audience was so far impressed with what they were seeing as the much larger size in pony was handling it more effortlessly than they thought he would.

The routine continued, with more and more pins juggled in between up until it was time for them to juggle ten pins with ease. While initially successful for a good fifteen seconds much like the previous performance trouble aroused. As the act went on, his long dress became a hazard and then the skirt choose the worst possible time to get tangled in his legs, causing him to fall and have all twenty pins tumble and fall on top of them. It was such a darn shame since this has happened twice in a row at this point that Big Mac had inadvertently cost them a chance at winning a blue ribbon. This time it was the stubborn dress getting in the way.

After some talking over at the judges table, the trio then made their decision on who to give the next pair of blue ribbons to, and this competition’s winners are…

…Twilight and Sweetie Belle who both smiled and hugged each other in delight once the ribbons were placed on their chests.

After the event, Big Mac finally managed to untangle himself and adjust his wig, which was now messy at this point. "Oh, I don't know why I didn't choose to wear something more casual. Why, I knew that routine like the back of my hoof! But never you mind. There is still the race to be run!"

Apple Bloom however moved to voice against it. "I really appreciate all the effort, Big Ma— cousin Orchard Blossom, but maybe we just skip the whole obstacle course thing and call it a day."

Truthfully, Apple Bloom didn't want to give up, but she was already starting to feel bad that her brother knowing that this would further embarrass him along with herself. It was sweet at first but now she was beginning to think maybe enough is enough for both her and her brother. Not to mention the fact that dress is very comfortable from head to toe.

"Why, Apple Bloom! I wouldn't hear of it! Your cousin Orchard Blossom may be many things, but she is not a quitter."

"I'm sure she's not, but it's like Applejack said; There'll be more Sisterhooves Socials down the line, and I'm sure she'll help me get a blue ribbon next time around."

"B-But you wanted to win it this Sisterhooves Social!"

"It's not about winning really, I just don't want you to feel like you have to put on this get-up for me. I already know it's not that easy for you, even if you can pull off a good impression, but really I'm okay. We don't have to win, I had fun. Come on, let's just go home and have some apple cider."

But Big Mac still wouldn’t have it. They have come this far and he was not about to go home empty hoofed.

"Come now, we are not giving up now. No matter what, I am gonna get you that win! Why, I simply have to." He said the last part as a personal vow to himself. No matter what, he was going to do whatever it takes to win.

"Sisters, get ready! The race is about to begin!"

Apple Bloom was galloping in place, still anxious even with her friend’s best efforts to calm her down.

"It’ll be okay Apple Bloom!" Kion said in an effort to calm her down. "Your brother has run this course a handful of times before so I think he’ll be all right today.”

“I know but I’m not worried about that! I’m worried about him exposing himself during this race! The moment that dress and wig come off, he’s going to get busted for disguising himself as a stallion!”

“Well…” Kiara then said trying to make light of it. “…if that happens then I’m sure a little talking things out can ensure you both don’t get disqualified. They did say have a very loose definition of what counts as a sister.”

“Not to mention the fact he’s did a pretty good job of keeping up the act!” Bunga said while munching on a grub. “In fact very impressive I should say considering he was willing and managed to compete alongside you in a dress and high heels.”

“Yeah! That’s crazy awesome!” Shakku also complimented. “If you ask me, I think you both have a shot at this competition along as big old red keeps his cool!”

"Old?!" Apple Bloom looked with a mix of confusion and somewhat offended at the Pride Lander who apologetically shrugged in response.

"Just an expression."

Despite his friends reassurances, Apple Bloom still wasn't too convinced still feeling this is one big humiliation rearing it’s ugly head should the truth come out and she’ll be reduced to nothing more than the town’s laughing stock.

“If I could say something it’s this…” Sunset after a while finally spoke up as he approached her. “…don’t worry about the crowd, don’t worry about anyone else. Just go out there and show them what an Apple Family pony can do.”

Hearing those words had Apple Bloom feel a bit better, but only slightly. “O-Okay then. I’ll try.”

“That’s all we ask for.”

“And we’ll be watching from bleachers, cheering you on!”

Both the lion prince and princess said to which further helped encourage her into giving it one more chance.

"Good luck!" Spike said with a tone of encouragement.

“Let’s go Apple Bloom!”

“Let’s go Orchard Blossom!”

Both Bunga and Shakku cheered and chanted like they are it a high school pep rally.

Apple Bloom giggled in response before regrouping with Big Mac and the other sister pairings including Twilight and Sweetie Belle.

“So you ready, Apple Bloom?” Sweetie happily asked.

“Let’s do this!” She returned with a determined expression at the moment while everyone else joined them at the starting line, with Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo the last to join the other competitors.

"Alright, Scootaloo, remember the parts where teamwork really comes into play!"

"How could I forget? We've been training all week!"

"Okay, hot stuff! What's our move on the grape squish?"

"The alley-oop."

"Apple toss?"

"Flip-flop."

"Egg carrying?"

"Flutter-bomb."

The two ponies high hoofed one another, "Yeah!"

Standing beside are both Twilight and Sweetie Belle, who galloped their hooves in place, while flaring their nostrils and stretching out their limbs, ready to start.

"Oh, dear."

Granny Smith spoke through the megaphone, "Competi-sis-tors! Take your positions!"

Big Mac adjusted his wig and trotted the ground beneath him. Apple Bloom was ready as well, hoping that things will be better this time around…hopefully.

"And a-ready, and a-set, go!"

The race began and the pairs were off. The first obstacle was jumping over a mud pit, to which Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo managed to do so with ease taking the early lead.

"Nice jump, Scoot!"

Next in second place are both Twilight and Sweetie Belle leaped over the mud pit with equal ease. The teams next jumped over various smaller barrels but Big Mac couldn't jump as high as the others and so he slipped on the mud, losing his shoes in the process. Apple Bloom managed to jumped over the barrels like the others but Big Mac got his hooves stuck on the barrels, carrying them off with him while smashing several.

Kion, Kiara, Sunset, Bunga, Spike, and Shakku all watched the whole thing all happy and anxious for all pairs competing.

“Come on, Apples!” Kion and Kiara cheered together.

“Come on, unicorns!” Spike cheered.

“Come on, Peagsus’s!” Bunga and Shakku cheered together.

"Come on, pull through!" Sunset cheered with the more hope directed at Apple Bloom herself.

Apple Bloom nimbly jumped over several wooden boxes, but Big Mac rammed into the boxes, destroying them in the process and catching up with his little sister, who cheered happily, "Woo-hoo!"

Hearing her cheer had Big Mac happily smile having finally gotten what he wanted from the start. But it wasn’t enough for him yet.

Next up was the pie eating contest, which to him is something he can easily do in his sleep. When the pink bow around his neck proved to be too much of a hassle he ripped it off and ate the pies in seconds. Apple Bloom finished her pie in time too.

They raced on with their friends cheering for them. Twilight and Sweetie Belle were neck in neck with Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo, who were all having the best time of their lives together. The next challenge was pushing stacks of hay towards the line painted onto the ground. Both teams were stronger than most, but Big Mac proved to be even stronger as he and Apple Bloom pushed the stacks of hay towards the line before tossing it over their heads. Twilight gasped when she saw it about to land on a couple of sisters and quickly used her magic to prevent it from hitting them and safely placed it onto the side. The teams sighed in relief before continuing.

Next was the grape squish. Big Mac tossed the load full of grapes into the barrel where he and Apple Bloom started squishing them together. In second, Rainbow Dash ran up and tossed the grapes and Scootaloo onto the barrels and the two began squishing them together. Next in third, came Twilight and Sweetie Belle, the princess tossed the grapes and little pony into the barrel and the two started squishing them as well. To speed up the process, and guarantee them the win, Big Mac leaped up and landed on the barrel, spilling the grape juice into several awaiting jaws, and even his younger sister in the process. She ended up in a jar and popped out in shock.

"Yikes! You almost squished me!"

They were the first to place their full jar of juice into the stools and ran ahead towards the egg carrying competition. Rainbow and Scootaloo galloped pass them along with Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Big Mac forced his way into the chicken coop, causing the chickens inside to panic.

"Pick up those hooves, Apple Bloom! Why, you're barely movin' at a mosey!"

Apple Bloom galloped as fast as she could towards the coop, where Rainbow and Scootaloo had already balanced their respected eggs onto their noses. The same was done by Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Both teams placed their eggs perfectly onto the baskets before galloping ahead still neck and neck together. This worried Big Mac, seeing that they went from being ahead to being behind in just a span of the one obstacle alone. He managed to balance an egg onto his nose, but due to his size he took the entrance of the coop along with him. His wig and dress were now covered with feathers.

"Come on, junebug, it's... like you've never carried an egg before!"

Apple Bloom balanced the egg on her nose and tried to move as quickly as possible without dropping or breaking her egg. "Argh! I'm goin' as fast as I can!"

Big Mac placed his egg into the basket, but all the other competitors were already gone. He began to jitter anxiously until Apple Bloom placed the egg into the basket, smiling in triumph. Before she knew it, she was suddenly lifted up by her big brother, who galloped as fast he his legs would carry him, with his eyes focused straight onto the finish line. While the other competitors jumped over the wooden obstacles, Big Mac rammed right into them, frightening the other ponies and causing them to scatter away.

Apple Bloom screamed while her brother galloped on at full speed with no regard for anyone else’s safety, the only things standing between them and victory were Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Twilight and Sweetie Belle. Said teams were already approaching the finish line in front of them. But Big Mac wasn’t about to see to it that it would happen. With all of his power and might, he had managed to pass by both pairs…while colliding and knocking them aside just before he crossed the finish line first.

The stallion came to a halt and did a victory dance while holding his little sister up high feeling mighty victorious.

"Woo-hoo!" He cheered loudly in his normal voice. Apple Bloom however was far too traumatized and frozen in shock to even move as she clung into her brother's hoof leg for her dear life. She didn't even notice they crossed the finish line, nor did she care whether they won or not.

And she wasn’t the only one as everyone else both competitors and bystanders were equally shocked and horrified at the acts displayed during the race. The rest of The Lion and Pony Guard present rushed over to help their friends, who were fine but shaken from the impact.

Big Mac cleared his throat and gently placed his sister back down, clearing his throat. "I mean, victory is ours, sweet Apple Bloom!"

But the victory was short lived due to all of that running and ramming into things along the way tore up his dress from head to toe along with his makeup thus exposing to everyone of who he really is.

"Uh-oh."

"Uh-oh" indeed!" One of the female pony judges stated with narrowed eyes as she and the other two judges approached them with stern looking expressions.

"I should've known you'd eventually get busted for bein' a stallion!" Apple Bloom exclaimed angrily at her brother.

"Oh, no, we've known all along." The judge shook her head and clarified, though it’s really no surprise they would anyone with everyone else. "The Sisterhooves Social has always had a loose policy when it comes to what counts as a "sister"."

“But then why are you all giving them the stern-looking eyes?” Bunga asked.

Shakku spoke up. “Um, I’m no expert but I’m pretty sure it has something to do with what had just happened during the race.” He pointed his finger towards the destruction that had happened courtesy of the big red stallion himself.

The obstacle course was destroyed, pieces of wood scattered all over the place, the stack of hay that nearly harmed two competitors, and the poor chickens were weeping due to their home being destroyed.

"Indeed it has because we do however have a strict policy when it comes to sportsponyship!" The judge explained. "In your "sister's" desperation to win, he used brute strength to physically take out the competitors. Uh, that kind of behavior is not just unbecoming of a lady, but quite frankly, of anypony! And for that, you two are hereby disqualified!"

Apple Bloom and Big Mac's ears lowered in guilt along with their heads while their friends took pity for them. But of course given in fair play competition, there was nothing they could do about it. Big Mac really did want to win but he did get carried away in his desire which lead to him uncharacteristically engaging in undeniable unsportsmanlike conduct that got them disqualified for it. And the worse part was Apple Bloom had nothing to do with her brother’s costly mistake.

Rainbow Dash dusted herself up and smiled at the orange filly beside her while rising to her hooves. "Hah! Looks like we win, squirt!"

"Woo-hoo! Yeah!" Scootaloo commented already excited herself. Before she knew it, she and Rainbow were beings carried off by the other competitors while Twilight and Sweetie Belle cheered and followed after them.

“Wow! We were so close!” The princess commented while placing her hoof on the child.

“I know! But that was so much fun! We put both Rainbow and Scootaloo on edge the whole race! I don't even think Rarity could have done the same if she were here.”

"Oh you'd be surprised of what your sister is capable of." Twilight said in reply knowing full well of what Rarity can do even with her personal preferences in life.

"Well either way I'm proud of how much fun we had together along with walking home with a blue ribbon together." Sweetie happily returned as they hugged together.

"I couldn't have said it better myself!" Twilight equally happily returned while certain that Rarity would feel the same way if she here to see it for herself.

But while they were happy, Apple Bloom wasn't as she knew that this would happen and this was the final straw that broke her back.

"I told you I should've just waited until the next Social." Apple Bloom angrily said before galloping away from her brother who can only sigh sadly to the point he can’t find it in himself to listen or to talk to anyone right now with what he did that all led up to this.

“Well that was rough.”

“I know.”

Both Bunga and Shakku shared after watching what unfolded before them.

“And to think we could have participated as sisters.”

“I know right. I mean they should really consider doing a Brotherhooves Social every year as much as a Sisterhooves Social.”

“Yeah! We could have had tons of fun today!”

Then they noticed the glares their friends were giving them.

“But of course that’s not important right now.”

“Right. There are still two sour apples in a bundle to deal with.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed with his annoyance turning into a look of sympathy for the two Apple siblings. “I mean I know what he did was wrong, but all he wanted to do was win for Apple Bloom."

“I know.” Kiara agreed. “Although I’m pretty certain that what got into him in the end isn’t the social alone. I mean, it doesn’t take two siblings not seeing eye to eye to see what it is.”

“That is true.” Kion nodded knowing exactly of what he is talking about. “I know what that’s like.”

“Yeah.” She then walked off ahead to where the Apple Sisters are headed. “And I think it is time they had a heart to heart together.”

"I agree." Sunset chimed in feeling the same way as she walked alongside them ready to want to resolve this once and for all.

After the lioness left, the male judge approached, holding a bouquet of flowers and looking around. He stopped when he spotted the golden curls and the torn dress on the floor.

Kion shook his head in response. "I wouldn’t get your hopes up if I were you. Sorry."

Apple Bloom sighed sadly as she rested her head on the grass on the Apple Farm. She felt terrible for yelling at her brother. She knew that he had good intentions. She knew that he only wanted her to win the social after spending the last year looking forward to it. She just couldn’t understand why he went through all of that trouble and embarrassment for it. While thinking her ears perked up when she heard footsteps approaching.

“Doing okay, Apple Bloom.” The lion princess asked as she approached her along with Sunset.

“Yeah.”

Kiara moved to sit beside her. “I’m sorry about what happened back there. Everyone else is too."

"I know why he did it but what I don't get is why he insisted on keeping up the charade that was doomed from the very beginning."

“Because it was his way of wanting to be able to spend time with you with the only desire of you looking up to him like any other older sibling.” Kiara replied as warm and gentle as she could.

"I know, but what got in him at the very end of that last run there?"

“Truthfully, it was just an act of desperation." Sunset explained. "He just really wanted to win so badly that he ended forgoing every bit of restraint he had in him just to cross that finish line." She blushed as she recalls whenever she didn't have good sportsmanship whenever she lost. Which happened to be a handful of times. "Competition can tend to bring out the worst in others, even with good reasons behind it."

"Like what?"

"Maybe deep down it’s more than that." Kiara took her turn in explaining once more. "Maybe he just felt left out and feeling disconnected from you from who knows how long ago you last looked up to him. I mean I would know just from growing up alone with Kion. Back then I was more focused on my future responsibilities while sharing little interest with him mainly because I didn’t see him having a future where he grows up and learns to be responsible with his life. It was only knowing that Kion has what it takes to be the best lion he could be did I realize I was wrong.”

“And your point being?” She asked looking on still confused.

“Point being like you I didn’t spend as much time as I should have up until the Lion and Pony Guard was formed even when my brother did nothing but look up to me like anyone else. Even though I wasn’t the nicest cub to him he still loved me as a sibling no matter what and once I moved to reconnect with him we are now B.S.B.F.F’s and L.B.B.F.F’s, like two peas in a pod. Maybe Big Mac wishes the same from you as much as you do to Applejack.

“You saying I haven’t exactly been loving both my brother’s equally?”

“Yep.”

“And that maybe I haven’t told him that lately?”

“Nope.”

“Gosh…”

Come to think of it, the lioness was spot on. Maybe she just needs to properly reconnect with him like she would to Applejack nowadays.

“I know. It’s not a very good feeling isn’t it?” Kiara then smiled as she assured with a paw on her mane. “But at the end of the day all we can do now is not dwell about what happened today or yesterday anymore but focus on the present so we can pave way for a brighter day going forward.” Apple Bloom smiled at her before hugging her and Sunset for the valuable heart to heart advice. “Go.”

"I'm sure he'll be open ears to hear you out and finally explain what's really bugging him inside." Sunset added while gesturing the filly to reach out to the big red stallion on the hilltop.

Apple Bloom got up and went off to search for and speak with her big brother. As she approached him she could tell that he is still upset with himself of what happened earlier today to the point he is heartbroken and is about to cry while sitting and looking on at Celestia's sun setting across the horizon.

"You know I'm... not mad, right?" She began.

"Eeyup." He only said in reply.

"I mean... let's face it – you dressin' up as my cousin Orchard Blossom was a pretty crazy idea in the first place."

"Eeyup."

"And it's not like you got me disqualified from the Social forever or anythin'. I can participate next time with Applejack. Everything's fine."

"Eeyup."

"I just don't understand why you went so crazy there at the end of the race. I mean, I know you like to win an' all, but... you wanna tell me what's goin' on?"

Big Mac turned his head away still unable to open up about it. "Nope."

Apple Bloom looked down seeing that this isn’t going anywhere. "Alright. Well, it's getting late. You common'?"

"Nope."

"Okay. See you later, I guess…" She turned away ready to walk back inside.

"Apple Bloom?"

The pony immediately stopped and turned around to face and approach him once more. "Yeah?"

"When you were little, you used to look up to me, thought I was the best thing since zap apple jam." His ears lowered sadly accompanied with a downcast expression. "Things are different now. Applejack's the hero of the Apple family, always rushin' off to save Equestria and the Pride Lands and I'm just here on the farm, doin' chores, helpin' out the way I can, nothin' special, nobody's hero. I guess I just thought... oh, never mind. Here I am about to start blabberin' on about my feelin's. You don't wanna hear all this."

"Yes, I do!" Apple Bloom insisted, placing her hoof over his.

"I guess I just thought if I could... fill in for Applejack at the Social and get you a blue ribbon, well, I could be somepony you looked up to again. Be your hero again. Even if it was for just a day." He gave his sister a warm smile before looking down and frowning sadly and turning his head away. "It was foolish and I'm ashamed. Please, I just wanna be alone right now."

It would have been so easy for Apple Bloom to do so…but she instead did what she should have done all day.

"Yeah, well, too bad, you big goof! 'Cause I'm not goin' anywhere." She said while hugging him and looking up in his eyes. "And I know that you're always gonna be here when I need you. Heck, you'll do a whole obstacle course in high heels if you think it'll help me get somethin' I want. You're my big brother. It doesn't matter if you managed to win me a blue ribbon or not, you've always been a hero to me, Big Mac, and you always will be. I'm real sorry I haven't been lettin' you know that's how I feel. Guess both of us have been holdin' back when it comes to expressin' ourselves, huh?"

"Eeyup."

Big Mac wrapped his hooves around his little sister and hugged her with all the love in his heart while looking at the sunset in front of them. Just then their Granny Smith called out to them.

"Big Mac! Apple Bloom! Your sister's home! She and Beshte says they got quite a story to tell about their trip to Manehattan!"

The two looked at one another before Apple Bloom called back. "Be there in a bit! I'm spending some quality time with my big brother!"

Granny Smith only smiled and allowed the two to have their moment together. Applejack and Beshte both watched on from the window and smiled at the scene. Both of them were very happy that they were able to have some quality time together.

"Hey, Big Mac?"

"Eeyup?"

"How do you think cousin Orchard Blossom would describe this sunset?"

Big Mac chuckled as he readopted his southern bell voice for his little sister's amusement. "Why, dear, I do declare this is the most beautiful sunset my eyes have ever looked upon. Though sitting here on these tree roots is a trifle uncomfortable for my hindquarters."

As the two laughed, Kiara watched from afar at the two siblings bonding when Kion approached him from behind along with Sunset. "So I take it she took your advice?”

“Yep. She went over to him and he finally opened up to her."

"Hook, line, and sinker.”

Kion chuckled in response. “Have I ever told you of how much I love and care for you for being my big sister?”

Kiara playfully jabbed him on the Mark of the Guard before hugging him. “Not until now.”

As for Sunset, she could only look on with one of the proudest smiles she's ever had ever since she helped the Rainbooms defeat the Dazzlings and the Wild Ones. It was like seeing a wondrous feeling for the first time since the sun emerged from the dark clouds followed by a rainbow shimmer inside of her after having the bad flames surrounding her soul extinguished. Maybe someday, if it works both ways she could say the same herself.

From behind, Bunga along with Shakku continued watching on happily at the sight all while eating and drinking their popcorn and soda.

"So beautiful!”

“I know!”

The two shared with the former looking like he is crying.

“Bunga, are you crying?”

“No! I just got something stuck in my eye.”

“Sure you were!”

“Shut up!”

Author's Note

While the whole Manehattan trip was happening, the Sisterhooves Social was also happening too, much to Apple Bloom's disappointment at the last minute turn of events. But thankfully (reluctantly on Apple Bloom's part) Big Mac was more than happy to step up to fill the void.

Despite a hoofful of mishaps that led to them coming up short in every competition even getting disqualified from the last event, both siblings managed to learn a lesson in part of being more open to each other. Apple Bloom being a little more aware and understanding. Big Mac being a little more vocal about how he was feeling about all of this.

As for Sunset in this episode, while she isn't exactly completely open up her issues (with a good reason) she is still tries to make an effort to give Apple Bloom advice the best she can. Along with Kiara, who used her past issues with Kion as an example of how Apple Bloom and Big Mac can reconcile much like how Twilight tried her hardest in getting the lion siblings to reconcile early on in the series.

Now that the whole Lion and Pony Guard is back, they will get to tackle another mission as they seek to ensure that the Pride Lands has plenty of water to go around during the dry season and in order to do that they have to negotiate with a golden zebra. So look out for that next week.

Episode 30: The Golden Zebra

Episode 30:

The Queen’s Visit

As the dry season prolongs on longer and longer than everyone thought, water while a blessing to have when you need it. Though the need has greatly increased ever since the dry season began to the point almost everyone was there once the first party had left. Today it got to the point where a dispute happened between the giraffes and buffalos that called for the Lion and Pony Guard’s attention when the watering hole was starting to dry out nearly.

“We were here first.”

“No, we were.”

One of the giraffes and buffaloes argued amongst one another until Kion and Sunset both stepped forward to speak up to him trying his hardest to settle the matter.

“Everyone please, stay calm."

"You all get water but you need to wait your turn.”

“But what if there's nothing left by the time we get our turn?” Vuruga Vuruga argued. “I've never seen the water this low. What will we do when it runs out?”

“What will we do?”

“We all need water.”

Both the same giraffe and buffalo wondered in great worry as Sunset turned to the Lion Guard Leader to do the same hoping he had an answer too.

“I... I don't know.” Kion could only say at the moment. While it would be easier for them to offer the Ponyville pond up until the dry season ends, problem is Makuu and his crocs already placed their reservations for that place ever since the dry season began, so he had find another way to resolve this without causing another stampede there. “But don't worry, I'm sure the King has a plan.” He quickly assured.

Upon this situation being addressed to him in the Lair of the Lion Guard both Simba and Rafiki took a look at the paintings of the past for an answer since this the first in generations that this has happened.

“Surely, I'm not the first King of the Pride Lands to face a water shortage, Rafiki? Did any of the earlier kings find a solution?”

Despite looking around the paintings, even Rafiki couldn’t find an immediate answer nor solution to the problem. “If they did, the paintings of the past do not have many clues.” He replied while making the nearby paintings come alive before coming a particular one that caught the king’s eye. One that depicts a large pool of water in the share of three-fingered hand where zebras, giraffes, and gazelles all are enjoying the generous helpings it has to offer.

“Interesting. I'm not familiar with that watering hole. Do you know where it is?”

“Well, I do know it is not in the Pride Lands.” He replied.

“Well that’s reassuring.” Rainbow sarcastically commented in a whisper to the rest of the Guard.

“Shh…” Applejack hushed. “…I think they be onto something here.”

“Ooh…” Makini spoke up as it looks familiar to her. “I've seen a watering hole that looks like that.

“You have?” Simba asked as she moved to walk up to the painting.

“I saw it in the Back Lands. It's a big watering hole with lots of water. It was part of the zebra herds' grazing grounds.”

“Zebras?” Instantly he knew exactly who’s herd it is. “That must be Dhahabu's herd. I didn't realize there was such a big watering hole on her land. That's our answer.”

Upon seeing that they do have the solution they are looking for, the Lion and Pony Guard moved to approach the king about it.

“I knew my dad would have a plan.” Kion assured everyone as Bunga wasted no time in speaking to him about the potential quick fix.

“So you want us to take over their watering hole for the Pride Lands? You got it, bro.” He then quickly remembered his manners when he saw him giving him the glare for that along with ill-timed paw placement on his shoulder. “Uh, I mean, King Bro?”

“No, Bunga, that is not what I want.” He then turned to the leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard of what he is really thinking about in regards to properly approaching this manner. “Kion, Twilight, I want you both to talk to the zebra leader, Dhahabu. Ask her if she'd be willing to share her watering hole with us.”

“Oh, I guess that can work too.” Bunga said reluctantly.

“Do you think she'll say yes?” Twilight asked. “It is a pretty big request we’re asking of her.”

“It is.” The king acknowledged. “So ask her if there's anything we can give them in return.”

“That we can do, especially since the watering hole’s about to go dry here.”

“Desperate times call for desperate measures.” Kion said in agreement.

“Exactly! We need that water. And we need it soon.”

“Of course.” Twilight nodded while respectfully complying with his request.

“Don't worry, Dad, we won't let you down.” Kion assured with a smile before he and Twilight led the team on over to the Backlands to ensure the water crisis is resolved.

Sometime later the Lion and Pony Guard have made their way to the Backlands where they are all trying to be very quiet. Fluttershy-like quiet. Breezies-like quiet.

“Be alert, guys, girls. This part of the Back Lands is leopard territory.”

“So don’t make any loud noises to attract unwanted attention.”

Both leaders cautioned as they made their way by.

Bunga and Rainbow Dash however were quick to dismiss that to the sky.

“Leopards, schmepards. Big deal!”

”We can handle 'em, bring 'em on.”

No sooner than they dared, a familiar leopard appeared from one of the trees he was standing on and gave them a jump scare of their lives with his mighty roar.

"You just had to tempt fate didn't you?" Sunset asked the cocky duo rather annoyed.

“Makucha!” Fuli growled along with Kion as the other adopted their fighting stances.

“Wow, that was fast.”

“No kidding.”

Both Bunga and Rainbow commented clearly amazed even when caught off-guard there for a second.

“Hello, Fuli, Rainbow, Lion and Pony Guard. Long time no see.” He greeted with an eager vengeful smirk before eyeing the yellow and red unicorn accompanying them. "And I see you brought a new friend with you."

"Yep. That's me." Sunset returned without an ounce of friendliness in her tone while keeping her guard up and horn flared up with magic ready to use at her disposal. "Come closer you'll find what kind of "friend" I am."

Makucha scoffed in response at her defensive response. "I can tell she is not a fan of outsiders is she Kion?"

“Yeah, haven't seen you since we kicked you out of the Pride Lands.” Kion returned not interested in his attempted pleasantries not that Makucha or most bad guys they face even care.

“And I'm here to return the favor. You're in my territory now. So get out.” To make his point he attempted to bite both Fluttershy and Ono who both just barely dodged the attack.

Fluttershy whimpered as she slowly backed away until she was behind Applejack and Beshte for comfort while Ono counted his feathers to make sure he didn’t get the drop on them.

“One, two, three, four, five... I'm good.” Ono said in relief.

Seeing this had both the Guard’s Strongest taking action.

“Hey, pick on somebody your own size.” Beshte moved to push Makucha away from them and into the nearby bush.

“Why don't you?” He angrily returned while emerging from the bush.

“There's nobody my size here.”

“Nor is there a pony not strong enough to take you down one on one, so don’t even think about getting us started.” Applejack further warned with her lasso at the ready when needed.

“And nobody but nobody treats Fluttershy like that!” Pinkie added with righteous anger.

“Easy, Makucha.” Twilight said to try to reason with him. “While we do apologize for interfering with one of your past hunts and for being in your territory right now, we’re not here to pick a fight so please back off.”

“Like what Twilight said, we don't want any trouble. We're just passing through.” Kion added taking the same stance as Twilight.

“You wouldn't want to mess with us anyways.” Fuli further warned. “It's thirteen against one.”

Makucha scoffed in the face of the whole Lion and Pony Guard army. “Ten and a half, maybe.”

Bunga took offense to that. “Hey!” He then turned to Ono before saying. “Oh, he means you.” He looks on annoyed in response.

“No I mean you…” Makucha corrected while pointing a claw at him. “…and her.” He added while pointing at Fluttershy who could only whimper in response much to her friend’s growing distaste for that remark.

“And what about me?! Huh?!” Pinkie demanded while getting right in his face. Am I just chopped liver?!”

“No! Just desserts!”

“Oh!” Pinkie then started laughing. “That’s good.” Makucha tried to bite her and narrowly did so with a yelp.

“Come on, Makucha. Just let us through.” Kion further pressed to make it clear this is his last chance to back off.

Even with everything considered Makucha refused to heed to his warning by making a move against Sunset. “I don't think so.”

"I warned you." Sunset remarked before firing her horn right at the guy's chest to kick start this fight.

He lunges toward the whole Guard and predictably gets his butt handed to him.

“Zuka Zama!” Bunga shouted before leaping onto the leopard’s head.

“Whee!” Before he knew he found himself leapt on again courtesy of the giggling Pinkie Pie. After that he ended up enduring a few punches and kicks courtesy of Twilight, Kion, Applejack, and Rarity.

“Huwezi!” Fuli shouted before knocking the leopard of his paws along with Rainbow delivering a super hard punch to finish him off.

And was enough to get the leopard to relent. “Fine, you win. For now, but pass through quickly. And don't come back.” He warned before leaving.

“Let's go.” Twilight stated while taking lead once more.

“But keep your guard up. I don't trust that guy.” Kion added.

“Me neither.” Rarity said in agreement while holding her head up high in response to his rude and hostile attitude he just displayed. “Apparently he hasn’t lived somewhere long enough to know how manners work around here.”

“You said it!” Applejack nodded while tucking her lasso around her body so she can be ready to use it if needed in an instant. “And here I though the Manehattan ponies at their worst were worse than him.”

The Lion and Pony Guard pressed through the Backlands but it didn’t take too long for them to spot what they think is trouble up ahead when Bunga thought he spotted Makucha again lurking in the nearby bushes rustling and shaking in front of them.

“You're right. There he is again.” Bunga pointed out as everyone got ready to resume fighting again.

"Where?!" Sunset demanded as she was quick to spark her horn with magic to throw whoever is lurking in the bushes again.

“Come on out, Makucha. We know you're in there.” Twilight barked out to who they think is him.

But what came out of the bushes was quite the opposite of what they thought was hiding in there.

“Makucha?

“Who's he?”

Two zebras, one male, one female, curiously and innocently questioned.

“Oh. Zebras.” Fluttershy said in delighted relief.

“Don't worry. We're friendly.” Beshte quickly assured to avoid any more confusion stirring up.

“Yeah, no need to panic and run.” Fuli added.

“Oh, we never panic and run.” The male zebra assured.

“We frolic and romp.” The female zebra added before they both proceeded to do so around the Lion and Pony Guard.

“Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp!”

“Wow!”

“Will you look at that?”

Already both Fluttershy and Beshte were taking a liking to these zebras.

“Dance party!” Pinkie giggled before leaping alongside the zebras too. “Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp!”

But at the same time, Fuli and Kyoga found it even more annoying than before.

“I think I like it better when they panic and run.” Fuli said to Ono standing next to her.

“Me too.” Kyoga agreed.

Sunset on the other hoof was pretty much on the neutral side of the fence on this one. "Okay...that sure is something."

While pleased to see good company greeting them, both leaders moved to press forward with their task.

“Excuse me, zebras? Sorry to interrupt.” Kion tried speaking up to them to no avail not helped that Pinkie’s having fun alongside them.

Twilight wanting to move this along floated up to shout in her Royal Canterlot Voice. “LISTEN TO ME!”

The two zebras and pink pony immediately stopped not even noticing the sheer annoyance from the two leaders.

“Okay.”

“Yes?”

“Please forgive me for that little slip of the tongue there but we're looking for a zebra named Dhahabu.”

“Can you take us to her?”

“Of course we can.” Both zebras happily obliged to their request in unison.

Five seconds of just standing later…

“Um, will you take us to her?”

“As in now?”

Both leaders clarified more specifically.

“Well, of course.”

“Why didn't you ask us in the first place?” Twilight looked on blankly in response with an arched eyebrow. “Come on.”

The zebras replied before leading the way across the bushes much to the Guard’s utter confusion.

“What's going on?” Fuli was the first to ask before following after them through the bushes they went through.

“No idea.” Kion replied equally unsure of what to say about it either.

"I wish I knew." Sunset replied just as lost as everyone else.

“They’re certainly quite odd to say at the very least.” Rarity voiced her initial opinion.

“But at least it’s something.” Twilight said with their sole goal their primary focus the most important thing to worry about right now.

“And they’re also at least fun!” Pinkie cheerfully added while leaping around everyone. “Frolic and romp! Frolic and romp! Frolic and…” She stopped when she saw the glare Twilight was giving her. “Right. Now is not for jokes.” She adopted a serious face to show for it.

“Come on!”

“You ready?” The male zebra asked as they approached their home. “Hold on to your hippos.”

Bunga taking it quite literally grabbed onto Beshte. “Got him.”

“Me too!” Pinkie added with a giggle and squee.

“That was meant as an expression.” Applejack commented with a stoic look before looking aside as they all find themselves meeting with an entire herd of zebras in their grazing grounds.

Fabulous Dhahabu

The zebras all sang and danced together before their leader presented herself to them in her golden glory. Literally because she is literally a golden zebra who sang before them with her glimmering bright blue eyes happy to greet them before moving to frolic and romp with her fellow zebras following suit.

While this was going on, Bunga and Pinkie Pie were the only ones dancing to the beat much to both Fuli and Kyoga’s annoyance as evident by the dirty looks they shot them.

By the end of the song, the Lion and Pony Guard were in stunned awe at the leader’s appearance, especially Ono and Fluttershy who had to be restrained by Kyoga before she can get up in her face and gush all over her.

“Easy, Fluttershy.”

“Hapana. Dhahabu is a golden zebra. They're incredibly rare. I've never seen one before.” Ono spoke first.

“She's really different and really pretty.” Beshte said already taking a liking to her.

“She's not pretty, she's incredible.” Bunga said already fawning over her. “You are un-Bunga-lievable.”

“I don't know what that means but I'll take it as a compliment. Thank you, little mongoose.” The zebra leader kindly returned.

“Um Dhahbu with all due respect, Bunga's actually a...” Rarity tried to correct her before being cut off mid-sentence by the honey badger much to her irritation.

“Mongoose. If she wants me to be mongoose, I'm a mongoose.”

“Very well, if you insist.” Rarity allowed but not without a huff in response to the backhanded interruption.

Both leaders of the Guard moved to introduce themselves with a bow to her with unfolded wings.

“Dhahabu, hello, my name is Kion and this is Twilight. We’re here with the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard...”

“The Lion and the Pony Guard?” Dhahabu interrupted mid-introduction. “Are you both here to guard me from lions and ponies?” Twilight looked on confused and a little put off while Kion could only return an look to Fuli to make it clear she doesn’t know what’s on her mindset anymore than everyone else. “You know, there aren't any lions and ponies in Dhahabu Grove.”

“There are now. Kion is a lion and Twilight is a pony along with her friends.” Fuli said while eyeing said ponies standing behind them.

“Hmm, interesting though I thought lions were bigger and didn’t have wings or horns.” Dhahbu remarked while said things on Kion’s head and back.

Seeing that this is veering to the sides, Twilight forced a smile before reintroducing themselves “Okay, let us start over. I’m Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship, and the leader of the Pony Guard. And this is Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Sunset.”

“Howdy!” Applejack tipped her hat.

“Greetings!” Rarity bowed majestically.

“Hello!” Pinkie waved her hoof up excitedly.

“Hi!” Fluttershy kindly yet timidly greeted.

"A pleasure to meet you." Sunset casually yet respectfully greeted with a bow.

“How you doing?” Rainbow greeted casually while earning herself a jab to the ribs from Rarity. “Ow! I mean your majesty.” She said with a bow.

“And I’m Kion.” The prince then said introducing himself along with his team. “I'm the leader of the Lion Guard. And this is Fuli, Beshte, Bunga and Ono.

Much like with the Pony Guard.

“Hey.”

“Nice to meet you.”

“Hi.”

“Hello.”

"How are you doing?"

Fuli, Beshte, Ono, and Kyoga politely and casually greeted.

Bunga however pointed out a finger in response. “We've already met.” Suddenly receives a cleared throat and jab from Rarity. “Uh, I mean, hey how’s it going?” He gets jabbed again. “Ow! I mean your majesty.” He bowed much to Rarity’s satisfaction.

“That’s better.” She quietly said in satisfaction.

“Anyway…” Kion then continued. “…we're here for the Pride Lands because...”

“Pride Lands?” The golden zebra cut her off once again. “You came all the way from the Pride Lands? How exciting! Prance with me.” She proceeded to do so while leading the way.

“Whatever you say, Dhahabu.” Of course, Bunga wasted no time in following suit as she lead them towards another part in the Backlands.

“Seriously?” Fuli was the first to express her annoyance before following after her reluctantly but not without pressing the prince and princess of the current issue at hoof and paw. “Kion, Twilight, do we really have time for this? "We need to ask her about that watering hole.”

"Before the whole Pride comes causing a stampede." Sunset added in agreement.

“Yeah!” Rainbow agreed with the others in frustration. “The longer we wait the longer there will be more mouths to feed which is something the watering hole in the Pride Lands doesn’t need. So just ask her straight up now?!”

Fluttershy however spoke up unsure if that’s the best course of action. “Um, do you think that’s wise because I’m pretty sure it’ll sound like we’re more demanding her help than seeking of her help?”

“I think Fluttershy has a point, Fuli, Sunset, Rainbow Dash.” Beshte said understanding what she is saying. “If we get to know Dhahabu, she might be more willing to help us.”

“Beshte's right.” Kion agreed. “We need to talk to her and make friends. Just like my dad said.”

“And certainly what I would do if it were up to me.” Twilight also agreed. “After all I am the Princess of Friendship and Kion is the Prince of Friendship, so let’s try to be patient about all of this, okay?”

“Okay.”

Both the Guard’s Fastest along with Sunset all conceded to their leader’s wishes before pressing forward.

“Welcome to Dhahabu Grove, the happiest place in the Back Lands.” She said while eyeing the many happy zebras forlic and romping around while having a good time out in the open field.

“Wow, Dhahabu. Everyone really does seem to be happy.” Kion complimented.

“Of course. Good leaders keep everyone happy, and in return, everyone loves them. Right?”

“Right.” Twilight nodded. “I grew up with a princess as a mentor and she and her sister are both good leaders.”

“And so is my dad. Everyone loves him 'cause he tries to keep everyone safe.” Kion added.

“Hmm, really?”

“Yes, and that's why we're here.” Kion said deciding now is the most tactful time to try to put down their request. “The Pride Lands have had a tough dry season. We need more water.”

“Oh, that's so sad.” She remarked with genuine pity.

“It is. So my dad sent us to ask if we can share your watering hole.”

Hearing that request of his had the zebra leader looking on uneasy about it.

“Our... Watering hole?”

“You do have one, right?” Applejack asked the very hesitant zebra as she looked aside to which caught the truth seeker pony’s eyes along with Sunset's.

“Well...”

Both Starehe and Raha approached by her side to answer that for her not even noticing their leader’s current uneasy expression.

“Of course we do. It's huge. The biggest in the Back Lands."

“And it would be fun to meet the Pride Landers.”

Both zebras confirmed already liking the idea all open to meeting and greeting new friends from another kingdom.

“Can we share it with them?”

“Please?“

"It would mean a lot to many thirsty mouths in need." Sunset added in an encouraging manner to try to push for the answer they'd like.

“It would make my herd happy. But...” She said with great reluctance.

Figuring that it would come down this, Twilight then moved to allow her to ask them of something in return. “We'd be happy to do something for you in return. Just name it.”

Dhahabu gave it some good thought before answering. “Oh, I know! You can bring my herd a Tamboa plant.”

“A Tamboa plant?” Both zebras standing by her side gasped in excitement.

“A Tamboa plant?” Ono repeated though much more confused unlike the queen’s companions.

“Our favorite food. A real delicacy.” She explained while feeling quite sure it’ll take care of the issue. “But if you don't think you're up to the task, I quite understand...”

“You got it.” Pinkie quickly obliged to the task presented to them. “One Tamboa plant, coming up.”

“Really?” Dhahabu replied highly surprised by that response.

“Sure, whatever you want. Our pleasure.” Kion replied to assure it’s not a problem.

None of the less she accepted their answer before leading both zebras away from them. “Well, okay. Thank you. And good luck.”

Both Applejack and Sunset let her be but still looking on mighty suspicious back at the golden zebra. It’s if she was trying to hide something from them along with truthfully not wanting to share the watering hole with them. It doesn’t take an honest pony and a pony who used to be dishonest in the past to see something’s up.

“Ono, you know what this Tamboa plant looks like?” Kion asked.

“Well, I saw one from the sky once. But they're incredibly rare.” Ono honestly replied. “It could take us days to even find one.”

“But we don't have days, do we?” Beshte asked.

“Nope.” Twilight shook her head. “So we better get going.”

“Twilight’s right. The sooner we find it the sooner we can get the Pride Landers more water.” Kion said in agreement before leading the team away. “Come on, Lion and Pony Guard.

“Bye, Dhahabu.” Bunga waved in the zebra’s direction before leaving.

With the search for a Tamboa plant underway, both Rainbow Dash and Ono scanned the skies from up high in order to find it faster.

“Any luck, Ono?”

“Find it yet, Rainbow?”

Their leaders asked.

“Not yet.”

“Negative!”

So far they haven’t found any sight of the rare plant.

“Ugh, we've been wandering through the Back Lands for hours.” Fuli was the first to express her annoyance at their so far futile search.

“Oh, well sorry I can’t find a Rarity of a plant so easily!” Rainbow equally annoyed returned before keeping her eyes focused on said plant.

“Come on, Fuli.” Beshte said trying to encourage her to cut them some slack. “Ono and Rainbow are doing their best.”

“Ono did say Tamboa plants were rare.” Fluttershy added.

“Sorry, everyone, we’re still looking.” Ono apologized before continuing their search. Just then both fliers managed to spot something up ahead.

“A-ha!”

“Well?”

“Did you find it?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked hopeful they spotted it out this time when both fliers landed before them.

“We’ve spotted a Tamboa plant, but it's very far away. And it'll be nearly impossible for us to get to it.” Ono reported.

Bunga and Rainbow both scoffed in response. “Since when does "impossible" stop us? We're the Lion and Pony Guard.”

“Exactly!” Rainbow agreed.

“I know, but...”

“We'll find a way.” Kion said certain they’ll figure it out. “A lot of animals are counting on us.”

“Everyone huddle together!” Twilight called out to everyone while she, Sunset, and Kyoga focused their mind on Ono’s so they can pinpoint and teleport to the Tamboa plant. Once they had a clear mindset of the plant’s exact location they both worked their magic in teleporting the group on over there.

Once the group teleported on over there, they all found themselves with a thorn patch right behind them while both Twilight and Kyoga took a minute to regather their energy from the huge leap on over here.

“Are you both okay?”

“I think so.” Twilight replied still certain yet still a little winded from the group teleportation spell. “It’s admittedly a lot harder to teleport a group of eleven on over a large portion of the Backlands that just a simple transportation between Ponyville to Canterlot to the Pride Lands.”

"No kidding." Sunset said in agreement while shaking her head so her eyes stop spinning.

“I’ll say. At least that cut the journey in half, outside of that we’re going to have to transfer the plant on foot up until our magic fully charges back up again.” Kyoga said as she works up the magic to create a drink for both her and Twilight to have so their magic and energy can recharge back up again.

Never the less he was still satisfied that they are taking precautionary measures to rest themselves when they need it. “Good. ‘Cause I think we'll need you at full strength.”

And from the looks of the plant itself a very large green leaf plant with a big pink flower in the center of it they are definitely going to need every ounce they can muster up for the job.

“Oh my!”

“Goodness!”

Both Fluttershy and Rarity expressed in surprise at seeing the plant before them.

“That's a Tamboa plant?” Beshte asked as Kion turned his eyes to the Guard’s Keenest of Sight to make sure this is the right plant they are looking for.

"Sure looks like it." Sunset commented as she too observed the requested plant.

“Ono, you said it was rare. You didn't say it was huge.”

“It looked smaller from the sky.” Ono explained as the exact size of the plant is new to him.

“No kidding! That’s got to be as big as Princess Celestia there.” Rainbow agreed but then added to Twilight. “No offense.”

“None taken. Just don’t let Celestia hear you say that.”

Fuli upon getting the full scope of the plant is left wondering how they are going to handle this while exasperated already by the golden zebra’s request itself. “We're supposed to carry this thing back to the zebras? Seriously?”

Bunga however still remained confident they can do this. “Ah, leave it to me.” He moved to grab it by the leaves thinking he can just pull it out. “Come on, plantly lanty. Here we go.” He tried as hard as he could but the leaves itself were even too strong to be willing to be pulled alongside the heavy plant much to the shaking heads of both Fuli and Kyoga.

“How're we gonna get that thing out of the ground?” Fuli asked. “We’re without magic and we’ve got to carry it a long way back.”

“Not to worry, Fuli.” Applejack replied with an answer in the form of shovels and gardening tools. “That’s where these come into play along with whatever our hooves and claws can dig. Like my Granny Smith would say when life gives you sour apples make some sour candy. Or in our case when we don’t have magic to work with, we do the job ourselves.” She handed some of the other ponies shovels so they can help pitch in.

“Sounds good to me.” Kion said already liking the idea.

“Wait.” Bunga called out while still pulling the plant in vain. “Wait. I've almost got...Whoa!” He ended up loosing his grip and slide back towards the half-lion/alicorn prince because of it. “Digging's good.” He relented much to his friend’s amusement.

“Good idea.” Kyoga dryly remarked.

“Let’s do this!” Pinkie stated while conning construction gear and placing the flower around a perimeter…even though there is no one else around them.

It took some time, but they were steadily making progress in digging it out. While the Lion Guard used their paws to help dig it out, the ponies all used the shovels to help dig it out (Pinkie used her tail as a drill while wearing a hard hat to help dig). But with eleven sets of paws and hooves combined the job got done in half the time it would have taken had it been just the five of them. Once the job was done they all emerged with nothing but a little dirt on their fur.

“Phew! That’s got be the largest thing I have ever dug up since the day I made that prized winning apple for the Country Fair.” Applejack commented while wiping the sweat of her forehead.

One member of the Guard was still doing some more digging.

“Bunga, I think we're good.” Kion called out to him who is still needlessly digging in the hole.

“One more handful.” Said handful winds up getting thrown in Ono’s face by accident. “Oops. Sorry.”

“No problem.”

“You done.” Kyoga asked.

“Yes.”

Satisfied that they can move it, Twilight turned to both the Guard’s Strongest to get them to tackle the next part. “Beshte, Applejack, it's all you now.”

“You got it, Twilight.” Beshte happily obliged as both the hippo and pony both moved to opposite sides from each other so they can pick it off from the ground.

“Ready?”

“Let’s do this!”

Once they were ready they both used much of their strength so they can try to pick it up.

“Twende Kiboko.”

“Come on ya mighty buffalo, move!

After a few seconds they were able to pull it out from the ground and pick it up together.”

“Way to go, Big B.”

“You too, A.J.”

Both Bunga and Pinkie congratulated.

“Thanks!”

“One Tamboa plant, ready to go.”

They both said as they both moved to carry it together.

“Great job, Beshte, Applejack.” Kion also commended. Now let's get that plant back to Dhahabu.

”Ono, Rainbow, take the lead.” Twilight instructed of them who both did as they were told no problem.

But first thing’s first is the patch of thorns in front of them.

“So…how do we get by this?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well considering this is a thorn patch, darling, we’re just going to have to go around them to avoid it.” Rarity answered.

As much as Rarity is right, time is at the essence here. “We don't have time to go around.” Kion shook his head.

“So let's fly over it or go through.” Bunga suggested while moving to futilely break the thorns in front of them away.

Kion still shook his head at the idea “Not all of us have thick skin like you, Bunga. Or wings like me, Twilight, Ono, Kyoga, and Rainbow.” He then thought to himself some more. Come to think of it he’s hardly used his magic at all during this trip. So maybe he could do something about it so Twilight and Kyoga don’t have to this time. “Although…maybe we can go through.”

“Kion?” Fuli curiously asked as he focuses his magic while sporting a red colored aura glowing on his horn.

“Are you going to use the Roar?” Bunga eagerly asked.

"No." Sunset replied as she worked her magic to match what Kion's doing. "Just watch and learn, my friend."

“Shh.” Rarity hushed as they watched both Kion and Sunset work their magic into creating a powerful wave in blade shaped so they can clear a straight pathway for them cross.

“Follow me, everybody.” He told everyone before leading the way for them to get by the thorn patch safely.

“Poa!”

“Wow! Look at that!”

Both Beshte and Rarity spoke very amazed with what they just did along with everyone else.

“Come on!” Kion called out to them while pressing forward up until the straight line path reached it’s end and they were all safely across the field without any thorns up their sides, literally.

Once they were all safely across, they all wasted no time complimenting the young lion and unicorn of magic themselves.

“All right!”

“Way to go, Kion! You too Sunset!”

Both Rainbow and Pinkie cheered.

“Nice job, Kion, Sunset!”

“That was Un-Bunga-lievable.”

Fuli and Bunga complimented.

“I know!” Twilight proudly commented with an equally proud smile. “I taught him!”

“Me too!” Kyoga said feeling the same way. “Along with how to concentrate and focus that energy into his magic.”

"Along with having someone who taught me those moves...at least before moving away for a while." Sunset proudly yet awkwardly added.

Next up as part of their journey they moved to cross the rocky terrain of the Backlands accompanied with a narrow path for them to walk across.

“Ono, Rainbow, are you sure this is the only way?” Kion asked.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

“Though I wish we had enough magic to just teleport our way on over to the Golden Zebra.”

Both their path guides replied. If only a group teleportation was doable at this point but all four magic users needed the energy to at least be able to walk around, be ready to fight and defend themselves, and be able to get home no problem so they had to transfer the plant on foot.

Beshte and Applejack were the most nervous since they were both carrying the plant together and having a hard time keeping their balance on the dangerously narrow pathway.

“Twende Kiboko. Twende Kiboko. Twende Kiboko."

“Easy. Easy. Easy.”

“Beshte…”

“Applejack…you okay?”

Both Ono and Rainbow asked in concern.

“Yeah, I guess.” Beshte replied while stuttering.

“It’s a lot harder when carrying a heavy plant that’s wider than the path itself.” Applejack added as the rocks on the very edges started to give away at certain areas.

“Not to worry A.J., we got your back!” Pinkie quickly assured while staying close to them so they don’t fall. “If something’s about to happen my Pinkie sense will detect it!”

“Yeah, Big B. It's easy, see?” Bunga demonstrated his point by effortlessly walking backwards.

“Careful, Little B.”

“I don’t reckon that’s a good idea!”

Both Beshte and Applejack cautioned. Since this path is filled with twists and turns they really need to look where they are going.

“Bunga!” Pinkie said while shuddering due to her Pinkie Sense. “Stop!”

“Don't worry about me, I'm fine. Hakuna Matata... Ah!” He ended up losing his balance when he stumbled upon a cliff edge he didn’t see.

“Bunga!” Kion exclaimed while everyone else all looked on in horror when it seemed like he was going to fall.

Fuli was however was quick to ensure that was not about to happen even if he greatly annoys her.

“Huwezi.”

She quickly rushed over and pulled him away from the ledge and tossed him aside to safety.

“Thanks, Fuli.” Bunga gratefully said to his savior. “For a second there, I thought I was one gone mongoose.”

“Hakuna Matata, Bunga.” Fuli returned as it’s no trouble at all as no matter what they’re friends through and through.

“Though you might want to walk forward with your head up ahead.” Rarity advised before whisking him on forward with her magic so they can all get out of this potential death trap before anything happens.

Later back at Dhahabu Grove, every zebra there is doing a dance with their hooves along with their leader before she moved to prance ahead of them.

“We love you, Dhahabu!” Two zebras cheered in her direction.

“And I love you, my zebras.” She happily returned before it turned into a scream of sudden shock when she saw the plant itself arrive before her very eyes with the rest of the zebras all gasped in surprise upon seeing it.

“Let me guess. Now you're gonna panic and run.

Both Starehe and Raha said otherwise.

“Why would we do that?”

“We're just surprised to see a walking Tamboa plant.”

“That’s not the plant walking by itself silly.” Pinkie shook her head.

“It's Beshte and Applejack doing the walking, see?” Bunga pointed out as said hippo and pony emerged from underneath the plant once they had finally reached a good stopping point to put it down.

“Okay, Dhahabu. One Tamboa plant, as requested.” Kion happy reported with their request a success.

The golden zebra however was left stunned rather than pleasantly surprised to see that they actually did it. “I... I never thought you'd actually find one.” She admitted.

“Sorry, what?” Applejack sternly asked.

“You mean to tell us that you never actually expected us to actually do it.” Fuli also inquired sounding a bit angered to hear that this was actually a wild goose chase for them to pursue while she dodged their earlier request.

“I mean, I hoped you would. I'm just...surprised.” She quickly corrected herself but even then both Applejack and Fuli weren’t fooled.

“It wasn't easy. But we delivered our side of the deal so now it’s time for you to return the favor.” Twilight confirmed with a friendly smile. “So if you could show us the watering hole...”

The two friendly zebras were quick and ready to show them the way while excitedly stating.

“We will! We will!”

“No!” Dhahabu sharply stated much to their surprise before turning back to the Guard. “I'm sorry, the deal's off. We can't share our watering hole.”

Hearing this had everyone surprised and shocked by that statement.

“What?”

“But...why not?” Fuli suspiciously asked.

“What do you mean you can't share the watering hole?” Kion also asked trying to understand the zebra’s insist avoidance of it.

"After we went through all of that traveling just to carry that on over here!" Sunset added already starting to get heated herself.

“It's...It's, um, against the rules.” She weakly stammered and mustered up to the point that even her most loyal fellow zebras were confused themselves.

“What rules?” Raha asked.

“The... The, uh, secret rules.”

“We never heard of any secret rules.” Starhe said having no idea of what she is talking about.

“That's because they're secret.” She explained. “In fact, you're not allowed to go to the watering hole either.”

“Huh?”

“What?”

“That's right.” She firmly stated. “Nobody can use the watering hole. That's my decree.”

“Aw!” The zebras all said in disappointment.

“Are you sure?” Applejack asked as she approached the zebra who looked on nervously as she’s realizing she’s onto her. “Is it because this watering hole is so special you don’t want to share it with anyone even after we went through a tough journey just to get that plant there for you and your heard?

"Or maybe you would want to share it with us when really there is no water in it and nobody here is the wiser to it?” Sunset added while gritting her teeth to avoid losing control of her anger.

“Of course I care about every zebra here.” Was all she could say as she felt cornered by the country pony.

“Well, if that’s true then you won’t mind if both Ono and Rainbow Dash take a look at your watering hole? You know, so we can truly understand what secret rules you have in place so we understand why you don’t want to sharing this here watering hole of yours, huh?

"Because if we want to understand you calling off a deal when it has already been made, I’m gonna have to insist that you be more honest and specific with us about it.” Sunset sternly added in agreement with truth seer pony.

“Easy there, cowgirl. Just let’s ease off on the hard-hitting questions, okay. You too fire girl.” She attempted to say with a nervous smile.

But by then, both Twilight and Kion have heard and seen enough to know something is up before turning to both Rainbow and Ono to nod at them to give them approval to fly on over there.

After flying on over there and getting a good look at the area, they both widen their eyes in shock with what they just discovered. A dried up and empty watering hole.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped before he and Rainbow flew back where the others were waiting. “Everyone, everyone...I know why Dhahabu doesn't want us to see the watering hole.”

“Why?” Kion asked.

“Because it's empty.” Rainbow answered. “The watering hole is all dried up.”

Hearing this sparked shock amongst the other zebras including the most loyal duo.

“All dried up?”

“It's empty?”

They both gasped.

“What? No.” Their leader tried to deny. “The bird and blue pony must be seeing things.”

Ono was quick to call her out on it. “I've seen things all right, but maybe they're things that you don't want anyone else to see.”

Rainbow was also quick to get in her face about it in her defense of her friend. “And while I may not be an egghead myself, I know my eyes can see just fine to know full well that you’ve been lying to us all this time. You knew about it and you sent us on that wild goose chase hoping we would never fulfill our end of the deal and that we would ever discover your little secret and save your precious reputation with the other zebras. Isn’t that right Miss, Goldly Stripes?!”

Dhahabu merely tried to laugh it off. “What a funny bird and pony they are.”

But nobody was close to amused nor looking the other eye with the truth clear for all eyes and ears to see and hear.

“Why didn't you tell us, Dhahabu?”

“This makes us really... unhappy.”

Both Raha and Starhe commented with severe disappointment before they led the other zebras away from her equally disappointed in her.

“Wait! Please, come back. We can frolic! And romp!” She desperately pleaded to no avail to the dispersing herd. Upon seeing that she has lost everyone’s trust she is only left to hang her head in shame.

“Not being generous enough sure hurts doesn’t it.” Rarity vocally commented with a frown of disappointment herself as what happened truly goes against her element.

“Yes.”

“So you knew the watering hole was dried up.” Kion asked as he approached her.

“Yes, I saw it a few days ago.” She honestly admitted and replied. “But I don't know where the water went.”

“Why didn't you tell your herd?” Twilight asked.

“I didn't want to make them unhappy.”

“But zebras can only go a few days without water.”

“And there’s also the fact you still managed to make them unhappy anyways.”

Both Ono and Fluttershy pointed out.

“What were you planning to do?” Beshte asked.

“I don't know. I guess I hoped it would fill itself up again.”

"You hoped it would fill itself up again?" Sunset repeated in disbelief at the golden zebra.

“Seriously?” Fuli looked on like she was crazy for even thinking miracles like that can happen.

“And you honestly didn’t think that what you did would end badly?” Kyoga pressed.

“No.”

Kion and Twilight while understanding of her reasons still firmly moved to give her much-needed advice with well-deserved stern words.

“A good leader tells her herd the truth, Dhahabu. Even if it's bad news.” Kion started.

“And when there's a problem, a good leader tries to help.” Twilight finished.

“You're right.” She came to see their point not denying she deserved to be chastised like that. “I just don't know what to do.”

“How about a hug?” Pinkie offered with the biggest grin she could give along with the widest span her arms would allow.

“There’s plenty of room!” Bunga also offered with wide open arms.

Twilight gently had the two stop before they could. “We can do better than that, Bunga, Pinkie.” She said before turning back to the zebra leader. “We'll go to the watering hole and see if we can figure out what happened to the water.”

“Do you think you can fix it?” Dhahabu hopefully asked.

“I don't know but if we can…” Kion replied unsure himself. “…will you agree to share it with the Pride Landers?

“Yes! Yes, yes, yes!” For doing all of that, that was enough for her to be willing to open up that generous heart locked inside of her.

“Lion and Pony Guard, let's go take a look.” Kion said to everyone as he and Twilight led everyone over there.

“Any idea why it dried up? Twilight asked as she and Kion inspected the dried up riverbank.

“Well, there used to be a waterfall over there.” Dhahabu answered while looking up towards said area. “Could that have something to do with it?”

“Uh, yeah.”

"Definitely!"

Both Fuli and Sunset replied with a smirk that should tell it should be obvious at this point.

“Ono.”

“Rainbow.”

Both leaders asked of them before they both moved to fly up over there.

“Will do.”

“On it.”

They both flew and quickly spotted the problem up ahead before the waterfall area.”

“I see the problem.”

“A rock slide blocked the waterfall.”

Both scanners reported.

Now they knew what to do from there.

“Okay, maybe we can unblock it and let the water flow again.” Twilight voiced the best course of action.

“Lion and Pony Guard, let's get to the top of that cliff.” Kion said before he and Twilight both took lead on over there with Dhahabu the only one who hasn’t followed after them.

“Wait!” The golden zebra called out to them. “That's leopard territory.” She warned.

“We'll take our chances.” Fuli briefly stopped to assure her that they're not worried about facing Makucha again.

“We do it all the time.” Rainbow added feeling equally confident as everyone else.

Seeing this willingness to step into action and brave the face of danger sparked courage in her heart. “Then take me with you.” She insisted stopping everyone in their tracks.

“Are you sure?”

“Um, I don't know if that's such a good idea.”

Both Twilight and Kion were the first to express feeling unsure about that request.

“Leopards usually aren't very nice.”

“Especially Makucha.”

Both Beshte and Fluttershy added to back them up there.

“Just leave it to us.”

“We can handle things from here, your majesty.”

Both Fuli and Rarity assured.

But the golden zebra leader still insisted that she tag along. “Kion, Twilight, you said "When there's a problem, a good leader does something about it." And I wanna be a good leader.”

Both leaders gave each a other so they can mentally decide for a second before returning their answer.

One nod from Twilight as she smiled and was the first to commend Dhahabu for her just displayed courage. “Very well, Dhahabu.”

“Come on.” Kion then said before they all pressed on forward into leopard territory while still not quite certain about it himself.

Sunset herself looked on impressed at the zebra's valor to join in, having been there before when dealing with her own redemption in the past before pressing forward.

It didn’t take them long before they reached the top of the waterfall and approached the blockage in front of them.

“There's the rock slide.” Ono stated upon being the first to spot it out.

“Thanks, Ono.” Kion thanked before turning to the Guard’s Strongest once more. “Beshte, Applejack you both think you can move those boulders?

“Sure thing, Kion.”

“Absoultely!”

“Don't even think it.” Makucha’s voice threateningly spoke to them from the nearby trees up ahead before they could even move a muscle on over there.

Dhahabu gasped when it happened. “That tree just spoke!”

“That wasn't a tree.” Rarity spoke while she and Fuli were the first to get in fighting stances.

And true to their word, said leopard appeared before them and approached them from his hiding spot. “No. It was me. I thought you were just passing through. Now you wanna take my water?” He growled furiously than before still holding resentment from their past encounters.

“We're not taking it, Makucha.”

“We just wanna move the rocks so the zebras can have water too.”

Both leaders said trying to be as respectful, polite, and reasonable as possible about it.

But even still Makucha still wasn’t having any of it. “You don't get it, I don't share. Now get outta here before I make you.”

“I've got this.” The golden zebra assured both Kion and Twilight before stepping forward trying to pull the royalty card on him. “Perhaps you don't know who I am.”

“Actually, I do.” Makucha replied with Dhagabu briefly smiling thinking it worked until he added… “You're lunch.”

Dhahabu screamed in fright before ducking in cover in time so both Kion and Twilight could quickly knock Makucha away with their claws, hooves, and magic from her before he could sink his claws into her.

“Dhahabu, take cover.”

“Beshte, Applejack, move the rocks.”

Both leaders said while giving orders to the Guard’s Strongest while the golden zebras quickly does as she is told with absolutely no hesitation.

“You got it, Kion.”

“One mighty drain plug pull coming up!”

But even still Makucha remained undeterred as he had something to say upon getting up to his paws. “Oh, forgot to mention. This time, I brought my friends.”

Said friends, ten more leopards emerged from the tree above them with two of them quickly swatting both Ono and Rainbow aside to the ground after being caught off-guard by their sudden appearance.

“Whoa!” Beshte exclaimed when one intercepted him.

“Hang on Big B! We’ll get him!” Bunga quickly assured while he and Fuli quickly sprung into action before the latter had another leopard intercept her too.

“Okay…” Applejack said as she adjusted her hat and lasso. “…you want to go that way? Fine. Bring it, you mean bull-dogs.”

“Um, their actually cats as in leopards.” Pinkie briefly popped in for a whisper much to the cowgirl’s annoyance.

“Not the time, Pinkie!”

Said leopard tried to swipe at the both of them before Pinkie quickly unleashed her party canon on the leopard and shot him a mile high and away from here with a super happy big grin.

“Out of the way, Leopard. Zuka Zama!” Bunga shouted before trying to wrap his arms around the leopard in front of him. Only for that to be in vain when the leopard simply tossed him away into the nearby tree followed by Sunset giving him a swift and solid kick to the ground from the branch she was standing on. Along flipping around to blast another leopard away and him in the skies screaming.

Twilight moved to charge at the leopard leader himself with nothing but her fully charged magic at her disposal along with her hooves and wings thus forcing him on the defense while Kyoga moved to swipe Makucha repeatedly off of his legs.

While Fluttershy quickly tended to Ono who was starting to come to, she and Ono were oblivious to the fact that one leopard is trying to pull a sneak attack on them from behind.

Fortunately for them, Dhahabu quickly spotted it. “Oh, no.” She gasped before calling out to them. “Ono! Fluttershy! Look out!”

This caught both Kion and Rainbow’s attention after they had just got done knocking a couple of leopards aside.

“Ono?”

“Fluttershy?”

Upon seeing what was about to happen they both quickly rushed over there and tackled them just before they could lay a claw on them.

“Hapana!

“Oh my!”

“Thanks, Kion.”

“Thanks, Rainbow.”

Upon getting back into action, Fluttershy quickly unleashed her powerful stare on the leopard who tried to attack and was left cowed repeatedly blinking his eyes at the sight long enough for Ono to relentlessly peck at the predator in retaliation followed by Kion ramming away.

After smiling for their successful moment of teamwork they all spotted Fuli and Rarity in a dead-lock struggle with two leopards.

“Hey, leopard!” Bunga called out from atop of the same tree he knocked him onto. “You're not the only one who can jump out of trees. Zuka Zama!” Before the leopard knew it he was suddenly landed on top of his head.

Said distraction gave the opening Rarity needed to put an end to this struggle as she quickly karate punched and kicked the leopards aside to end the fight.

“Come on, Beshte. Applejack You can beat them.” Dhahabu encouraged of them as they find themselves cornered by the remaining leopards who moved to tackle them all while unaware that Makucha has strayed from the fight and has moved to sneak on her up from behind.

Sunset however who did notice what was going on moved to follow after him in secret since Twilight's got her hooves full with the leopard she is currently facing off against.

“Oh no you don’t!”

“Get off.”

They both stated before slamming into the nearby tree to force them to retreat along with the others when the fight is now starting to get too much for them to handle anymore bruises and punches. For good measure, Kyoga sent a wave of magic to send them up the hill faster.

“I think we got 'em all.” Kion said everyone feeling proud of themselves once they had all regrouped together.

“Think again.” Makucha said otherwise revealing himself right in front of the zebra who is cornered even with Sunset's magic at the ready to stop at the very second he tries to pounce on her again much to everyone else’s shock.

"Are you sure you want to bet on that?!" Sunset warned with her horn glowing from behind.

“You guys...I'm starting to think it wasn't such a good idea for me to come after all.” The zebra nervously expressed while literally in the middle of a standstill.

“Leave right now or the zebra gets it.” The aggressive leopard demanded.

“Let her go, Makucha.” Kion demanded.

“She didn't do anything to you.” Beshte protested.

"Lay one claw and or tooth on the zebra, and you're toast!" Sunset further stated threateningly.

“Don’t me use the Stare on you!” Fluttershy warned assertively.

“Take me instead!” Bunga offered.

Makucha himself shook his head in disgust. “Ugh, no thanks.”

“What about me?” Pinkie offered along with a “Please don’t eat the zebra, zebra.” cake.

Makucha simply swatted the cake aside and pushed the pony away equally disgusted. “Ugh, no thanks either.”

“I'm warning you, Makucha.” Kion said making it clear this is his final warning to leave her be. “Dhahabu's a good leader.”

Even while outnumbered, Makucha still won’t heed to his warning. “So? What do I care?”

“So…” Twilight spoke up with her horn still flaring. “…if there's a problem, a good leader does something about it. Right?” She turned to the others with a encouraging and supporting look as she smirked. “Isn't that what a good leader does?”

The others all getting the idea all chimed in.

“Oh, yeah, she doesn't just stand there.” Fuli said.

“No, not her.” Beshte said in agreement.

“She steps up and takes action!” Kyoga then stated.

“Indeed.” Ono also stated.

“Even as a lovely lady she is still a worthy zebra.” Rarity added.

“With nothing but a kind heart and an honest mouth.” Applejack further added.

“Yeah!” Pinkie agreed while raising a pumped hoof up.

“If you were I’d back off before its worse.” Rainbow advised with a sly grin knowing what’s about to happen.

"Because if that happens you're going to be in for a world of hurt." Sunset added with a smug smirk from just picturing what's going to happen in her head.

“Because a good leader does not take kindly to a mean, selfish, brute like yourself!” Fluttershy furiously added with a stern look ready to unleash her Stare on him should he refuse to leave Dhahabu alone.

“Yeah!” But suddenly Bunga then got confused. “Wait, who're we talking about?”

Hearing all of this gave Dhahabu the push she needs into doing exactly that. “I am a good leader. And this is a problem. And I'm gonna do something about it!”

She worked up the courage to charge up to the confused leopard who kicked him away from her and onto the nearby rock. She then effortlessly trotted her way up to him without fear and kicked him into the rock slide upside down causing the rocks to break forcing him to flee before he could get caught in a huge wave of water.

And just like that the rock slide broke apart and all of the water flowed smoothly through the riverbed and down the waterfall and into the big body of water down below.

“Dhahabu, you did it.” Kion spoke very impressed with how she handled that situation just seconds ago. “You unblocked the watering hole.”

“I guess I did, didn't I?” Dhahabu returned happily and humbly. Truthfully she could not believe it herself.

“Thanks for sharing, Makucha.” Rarity returned with a smug smile.

"Quite generous of you, honestly." Sunset called after him equally smug as the leopard now standing on the other side of the river snarled in response before fleeing.

“Speaking of sharing...” Dhahabu then said making good on her promise. “The animals of the Pride Lands are more than welcome to share our watering hole.”

“Thanks, Dhahabu.”

“You really are a good leader.”

Both leaders commended while feeling very proud of what she just did and learned today.

Sometime later the Lion and Pony Guard lead by Kion and Twilight lead the thirsty Pride Landers on over to the queen’s grazing grounds along with her watering hole.

“This way, everyone.”

“Dhahabu and her zebras have something special to share with you.”

The Pride Landers are gasped in delight upon seeing the watering hole in full glory. To them it is exactly how they imagined it would be a large beautiful pool of water for them to enjoy and bask in.”

“Welcome to our watering hole, everyone.” The queen of the herd happily greeted. “Plenty of water to go around.”

The Pride Landers all cheered in delight upon hearing that.

“This looks wonderful.” The buffalo leader said in delight.

“And I want you all to enjoy it. But first, you have to do something.” The queen then said with the last part with an expecting look on her face.

“Huh?”

“What's that?”

Both leaders asked in surprise since they had just cemented a deal with her.

Thankfully, her expression turned into a friendly smile as the expectation itself is merely a friendly request. “You all have to frolic and romp!”

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.” Raha and Starhe both cheered as they both did exactly that in the pool.

Vuraga Vuraga was the first ready to join in on their little dance. “Looks like fun, I'm in.”

“Come on, Lion and Pony Guard. You too.” Dhahabu encouraged.

Much of the Lion and Pony Guard simply shrugged before joining everyone else in the water. All expect Rarity and Fuli of course since they’re still not fond on leaping into the water nor doing something what they find it is quite dignified. All while laughing and chanting.

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.”

“Now this is what I call a party!” Pinkie happily said before leaping and prancing around like a zebra both in and out of the water.

“Watch this, Dhahabu.” Bunga called out from both Rarity and Fuli’s side with Sunset floating nearby on her back. “Zuka Zama!” He leaped into the water while performing a cannonball and ended up splashing water onto their bodies causing the former’s mane to get soaked and straighten up.

“Bunga!”

Both girls exclaimed in frustration while Sunset managed to duck by submerging underwater instinctively.

“Ah, come on, Fuli, Rarity. It's a party!” He urged her to let it slide while floating in the water while playing with his current and new friends.

Said unicorn chuckled in amusement. "For once, agree with the honey badger on this one." She encouraged before swimming backstroke from the edge of the pool.

“Fine.”

“Very well.”

They both relented with the latter quickly performing a blow-dry job on her mane to return it to its curly state before they reluctantly did what all of the other zebras do.

“Frolic and romp. Frolic and romp.” They chanted with minimal enthusiasm they can muster up along with the other zebras dancing and prancing along the way as the fun between everyone continues with new friends and friendships made this day with a very valuable leadership lesson learned today.

Author's Note

In this episode we get to travel outside the Pride Lands where the Lion and Pony Guard get to meet a new group of zebras led by an incredibly rare one of a kind zebras in their quest to seek a treaty with her in order to help ensure the Pride Lander's survival. During which they had a brief struggle with an antagonistic leopard who still has a beef with them due to the last encounter all the way back from Season 1. And on top of that, they come to learn that the zebra leader hasn't been completely honest.

But in the end, thanks to encouragement and much needed advice from the Lion and Pony Guard she ended up becoming the leader that everyone looks up to again as she comes to honor her agreement to spread her generosity into the Pride Lands so they'll endure the remaining days of the dry season.

Next up is a special musical episode where good fortune finally comes around to a certain trio of fillies who have been looking forward to something they wanted for so very long so be on the lookout for that by the end of the month.

Episode 31: Crusaders of the Lost Mark

Episode 31:

Crusaders of the Lost Mark

“Wow!” Shakku spoke up upon seeing the many, many papers of various activities posted around the walls of the CMC clubhouse. “Hard to believe that this is how many things our friends tried to do in an attempt to gain their cutie marks.” He said to his buddy Gumba who is looking on the X marks on all of the things they have tried and failed in earning their cutie marks while doing so.

“No kidding. It’s like they actually tried almost every single thing they can think of at this point.” Gumba said in agreement. “Archery, Bowling, Cooking, Dental care…”

“…along with eating, hang gliding, kite flying, news story writing, selling things…”

“…pig farming, taffy making, hairdressing, chicken herding, carpentry, jugging…” Mtoto added.

“…don’t forget square dancing, tight-rope walking, tiger-taming…” Kwato further chimed in.

“How did they think they were going to tame a tiger?” Kambuni asked finding the idea itself impossible for their age.

“They thought if they treated it like Rarity’s cat it would get all friendly with them.” Shakku answered.

“Too bad that wasn’t the case.” Gumba commented. “They were all pretty lucky it was at a zoo that tried it at aside from the somewhere in the other world because they sure would have kitty kibble by now.”

“Um Gumba…” Kwato corrected. “That was actually when Fluttershy, Beshte, Rainbow, Fuli, Applejack, and Rarity took us on trip to where the tigers live in the Backlands who by the way rescued them before they could even lay a claw on them. Ponyville doesn’t have a zoo.”

“They don’t?” He could have sworn that they did.

“No.” Kwato shook her head. “Fluttershy wouldn’t allow it due to feeling that the animals there would be upset of being forced to live there.”

“And it wouldn’t be very kind of anypony to do it.” Kambuni added. “And that’s of course against her element.”

“Right. Right…”

“I guess now watch and see what the fellow Crusaders have in mind this time.” Gumba said figuring that’s what their latest meeting is going to be about while watching them enter the treehouse so they can discuss it.

“Yep.” Shakku nodded as they see the meeting is now about to begin.

Apple Bloom moved to sit onto of a box while trying the stand she has set up is a booth with a microphone on top before beginning their meeting. “Okay, Crusaders! Back to the business of earnin' our cutie marks! Any suggestions?" Apple Bloom said while sitting on a box, pointing her hoof at a chart of items crossed out with red Xs.

"No, we've tried everything!" Scootaloo sadly replied.

"We've run out of ideas." Sweetie Belle added in the same tone as she sadly looked at her still blank flank.

“So what?” Gumba asked speaking his mind just when it seems like they have given up trying. “Just because you haven’t found your true calling doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep trying. I mean surely there has to be something you haven’t tried yet.”

“Like what?” Scootaloo asked confused. “Because I’m pretty sure we did try everything we can think of.”

“So then think again. Think long and hard and think deep of what you haven’t tried already.” The baboon further advised. “Think like our teacher Rafiki.”

“Yeah, exactly!” Shakku agreed already seeing what he is saying. “He sure said some words of wisdom that are worth listening to.”

“Like what?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Maybe it’s something that you aren’t quite seeing.” Mtoto suggested. “Maybe something that you might be actually overlooking.”

“Right of course.” Kambuni realized upon recalling what their teacher said to them during one of his classes. “I remember what it was.” She then got down on her legs and moved to meditate like he would during lunch and recess along with his off days back in the Pride Lands.

“To find it, you must look beyond what you see.”

“What does that mean?” Kambuni asked during one of his current meditation sessions. “I mean…” She quickly apologized upon realizing she forgot her manners. “…Rafiki, forgive my interruption but…”

“It’s all right little ostrich.” He assured as he still kept looking ahead. “I haven’t seen your friends since lunch began.”

“Truthfully I was on my way to get some water when I overheard you talking in meditation. And I was left wondering what you meant by what you just said.”

“I see.” He turned around to face while gesturing her to come inside the classroom. “Well if you join me in meditation, I’d be more than happy to answer your question.”

Kambuni moved to do so while adopting the same meditation position he is currently doing.

“Find your center…” He advised before turning around with Kambuni moving to copy his form. “…focus your energy…and…”

“To find it, you must look beyond what you see. In order to do so you look beyond what you see.” He peeked up an eye at the same time Kambuni moved to do the same. ”Now…look out this here window and tell me what you see.”

Kambuni moved to do so with only one open eye as she did as she was told. When she did she saw many of her classmates playing and having fun together in the school playground.

Well most everyone as she witnessed Diamond Tiara and her buddy Silver Spoon about to pick on another student…Pipsqueak…again.

They just about to approach him when the Cutie Mark Crusaders quickly intercepted them before it could even happen. Said standoff took several seconds of bickering, arguing, shouting, and a lot of yelling, amongst one another until the verbally defeated bullies finally left when the trio stood their ground against them with proud smirks.

After they had left, Pipsqueak gratefully hugged the fillies for their bravery before inviting them to do something fun with him as thanks for sticking up for him. The kids graciously accepted the offer while thinking of what they just did just simply satisfied with the fact they did what they did.

She then closed her eyes again to resume meditation alongside Rafiki for the rest of recess feeling content with this for an every other day experience ever since.

Back in the present day…

“So you see, that’s what I think you all should try doing if you really want to earn your cutie marks.” Kambuni explained. “Maybe instead of trying something new, try something that you all do best.”

“Beyond what you see?” Scootaloo pondered unsure of what to make the mandrills words of wisdom.

“I know it sounds hard to understand but if you ask me I think the answer might be something that you have already done without realizing it.”

“Okay…I guess. But still…”

“You’ll know when it happens. Trust me. You can never go wrong with the words of wisdom from Rafiki himself.”

“That’s true.” Mtoto agreed. “Beshte would say the same thing if he were here.”

“But what if we never find our true calling?” Sweetie Belle voiced with a lack of optimism.

Apple Bloom could not believe what she was hearing. She jumped from her box and spoke up to her friends with a sense of encouragement to rise their spirits back up. "Are you kiddin' me, Crusaders? We can do better than that!"

“Yeah!” Kwato cheered in agreement. “One way or another you all will get your cutie marks no matter how long it takes. You all just need to keeping trying.”

Music filled the air as Apple Bloom started to sing:

Apple Bloom:

“We've been searchin' for our cutie marks

For a while now

Tryin' to find out how we fit in

So many ways we've tried before

But we keep on tryin' more…”

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“'Cause the Cutie Mark Crusaders don't give in.”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo quickly realized how foolish they were talking . Even though the results yielded no results in gaining their cutie marks, they never stopped trying and kept coming up with new ideas every day. Heck, that’s the reason why they are the CMC, they have hearts as strong as their hooves.

Mtoto, Gumba, Shakku, Kwato, and Kambuni joined in on the song too.

Mtoto:

“Though your journey has lasted long.”

Kwato:

“That doesn't mean you should say it's done.”

Kambuni:

“Because we know, deep inside, you'll find the light that shines within.”

The Lion Guard fan club.

“Cause the Cutie Mark Crusaders don't give in.”

All Together:

“We'll make our mark

One way or another

We'll make our mark

On the day that we discover

The ultimate reward of our cutie marks!”

Apple Bloom:

"Now, that's more like it!"

After the song ended their thoughts were suddenly interrupted when they heard a voice call out to them.

"Cutie Mark Crusaders! Help!" The door of the clubhouse busted open courtesy Pipsqueak entering their clubhouse with an urgent look on his face.

"What's wrong, Pipsqueak?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I'm running for student pony president, I was hoping you three would be my campaign managers!"

The three female fillies smiled in response at their request.

"We've never tried gettin' our cutie marks in campaign managin'!" Apple Bloom commented.

“And with all else failed, this could be another opportunity to help a friend in need.” Gumba brought up.

“And maybe achieve what you have been waiting to earn for so very long.” Kwato added.

“It could be.” Apple Bloom agreed while turning to everyone of her friends standing beside her. “What do ya say, Crusaders?"

"Yeah! Hoof!"

The Crusaders and Lion Guard fan club high fived with their hooves, ready to help their friend out. Pipsqueak tried to get up and join but couldn’t due to his short height. Hence his nickname. Sweetie Belle kindly levitated him with her magic so he could join in. He felt very relieved and glad by that gesture along with the fact that he has help from none other than the Cutie Mark Crusaders who are all very good at coming to their and another friends need when the situation calls for it.

The following day, the Crusaders got to work in helping Pipsqueak get elected as student pony president. Their first stop was the school's playground. Sweetie Belle pushed a box and Kwato placed Pip onto it. Apple Bloom tried to get the other fillies attention, but none of them seemed to be hearing a word she is saying. Mtoto moved to put his loud trunk to good use while inhaling a big deep breath before giving a loud one to match a young filly alicorn’s Royal Canterlot voice.

"So, Pip, how would you help the school if you were elected student pony president?" Apple Bloom asked once all eyes and ears were on them.

"Our playground equipment took quite a beating during Twilight and Kion's battle with Tirek!" The little colt started as the students all got a good look at the playground itself. It is indeed, a massive wreck. The swings could hardly withstand one pony’s weight, the teeter-totters had no teeter in their tots, the merry-go-round didn't go as fast as it once did, and nopony could climb the monkey bars.

“Took them long enough.” Shakku said to Gumba in a hushed tone.

“Sure did.”

"If I'm voted in as student pony president, I'll go to the school board and right this wrong!" Pip stomped his hoof onto the box in determination to make good on it. All of the foals cheered upon hearing this, while the kids standing by his side smiled with satisfaction knowing that they might have this election in the bag as long as they have everypony’s support.

Of course as always there is that one particular pony who is not happy with what she is seeing, Diamond Tiara watching the whole scene on with a look of disgust on her face.

"Well, I think that's a ridiculous waste of money!" She said as she roughly made her way through the crowd with her head held up high like the princess she believed she was. "It's just like when Twist proposed to repair the window that Discord destroyed!" She said while narrowing her eyes at the little foal, who flinched upon seeing her approach him.

"She just wanted to repair it like a plain old schoolhouse window. But you all know voting for me was the best choice because I convinced the school board to give that window visual appeal!"

Said appeal featured herself in her smug and self-absorbed glory all while acting all high and mighty.

“Oh no…” Shakku remarked with deadpan annoyance with her once more upon seeing her. “…not her again.”

“Geez. Does that pony ever learn after having humble pie handed to her over and over again?” Gumba expressed with equal annoyance.

“Not while her mother Spoiled Rich is president of the school board.” Apple Bloom commented.

“Of course, given that she is one of the richest ponies in Ponyville.”

“Go figures.”

"Exactly!" Silver Spoon stated in agreement, equally smug as Diamond in the face of the annoyed looks on the other kids faces, including Pipsqueak, the Lion Guard fan club, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. "Which is why when Diamond Tiara is voted student pony president, the school will be putting a statue of her in the center of our schoolyard!"

Diamond Tiara quickly pulled her aside for a quick word speaking with gritted teeth as that did not sit well for her. "Silver Spoon! That was my big announcement for when I won!"

"I was only trying to help." Silver Spoon innocently defended.

"I don't need that kind of help!"

Silver Spoon lowered her ears feeling hurt by that remark as she truly was just trying help her best and only friend. Ever since the little kids, close friends to the Lion and Pony Guard been standing up to Diamond more and more, the more nastier her friend has become even to her.

"Haven't we all had enough of Diamond Tiara?" Apple Bloom said to the students.

"Do we really need a big statue of her?" Scootaloo added.

"Especially where our playground equipment should be?" Sweetie Belle further emphasized.

Diamond Tiara narrowed her eyes once all of the students started speaking with one another, all murmuring in agreement at what Sweetie Belle had just said. A statue of Diamond Tiara would be rather hard for them to play on. In fact there might not even be enough room for them to play on school grounds should one be built in the middle of the playground.

“You know Diamond Tiara…” Shakku spoke up. “…if I was rich as you I could afford to have some manners.”

“Yeah!” Gumba agreed. “Not only you could also afford to help actually put forward the money into stuff we really need instead of wasting it on something that only reminds us of the mean, narcissistic, selfish, and vain pony any of us have ever met!”

“And maybe if you actually pretend to have a heart, maybe you’d still have others by your side.” Kwato stated in agreement.

“And maybe you wouldn’t have ponies here already starting a riot.” Kambuni added as she quickly spotted some ponies somehow managing to obtain pitchforks and torches to which Rafiki was quick to shoo the pony vendor away before they could obtain them.

Pip stood tall on the horseshoe arch as he stood tall and proud with great humility. “A vote for Pip is a vote for the playground!"

"A vote for Diamond Tiara is a vote for more Diamond Tiara!" She boasted vainly as always yet unaware of how much she is actually doing more harm than good while doing so.

The Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club all joined Pipsqueak on top of the arch as they all began singing to their fellow classmates.

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“It's time to make a change

This is our chance

Don't be afraid to do what's right

(He's it! Vote for Pip!).”

Lion Guard Fan Club:

“You've got an opportunity

To have fun again

A vote for Pip, and you can join the fight.”

The friends marched behind Pip, who walked among the foals like the leader he truly was deep inside. He cared about the students and their problems more than himself.

CMC and Lion Guard Fan Club:

“It's time for a new leader

It's time to make a change

We're here to fight for what we believe

(Vote for Pip!)

It's finally time we beat her

And play a better game

'Cause when we vote together

There's nothing that we can't achieve.”

Diamond Tiara snarled angrily in response as she spoke/sang in response to the gathered classmates. Given her reputation they all feared her, and she knew it used it to her advantage.

Diamond Tiara:

“I don't believe what I am hearing

I'm the only one you should be cheering

Pipsqueak? Try "Pip's weak!" Don't you think?

But a diamond is perfection

It's natural selection

So your vote better be for me, not the weakest link.”

Apple Bloom:

"We'll let the votin' decide!"

The rich pony smiled slyly as she locked eyes on various foals around the yard. Eyes that spot out her prey from a hundred yards away.

Diamond Tiara:

“Everypony has their little secrets

I know you do

A vote for me will help you keep them safe.”

"Like your creepy super strength!" she said to one filly, who used her strength to lift half of the school to get her missing ball. She blushed in humiliation and released the building in response.

“Or your mane extension

A little thing I won't mention

Or those freakish large teeth in your face!”

Apple Bloom:

"Come on now, ponies! Don't listen to her!"

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“You've gotta vote for change

It's time for a new leader

End all the tyranny

Vote now and we can beat her

It's now another day

And we believe in what's right.”

Lion Guard Fan Club:

“Vote for Pip! Vote for Pip!"

CMC and Lion Guard Fan Club:

Our victory is in sight.”

Even Diamond Tiara's threats weren't enough to cow the foals in following her this time around. While they were still afraid of her, they weren’t about to put up with her selfish desires in favor of using their resources into getting something the school truly needs. And to be quite honest, they would rather their secrets open for everyone to know than have it be used as personal leverage for a bully who lacks what a true leader should have deep down inside their hearts.

All of the little ones gathered to vote for their new president, with many of them going towards Pip’s favor. But even still Diamond Tiara wasn't about to let that happen.

Diamond Tiara:

"Stop! Everypony who hasn't voted, listen up!"

Pip makes promises he can't keep

But I can do more.”

"You could really use a new book bag" She said to one classmate with a worn out and torn up bag overflowed with more books that she can carry. Though then again she didn’t help her cause by tauntingly dangle it in front of the filly just out of her reach.

“'Cause I'll make things happen

That none of you here can afford

To do, like, ever!”

She started handing out free candy and umbrellas.

“Wouldn't you like a little something sweet?

Here's a parasol to hide you from the heat

Who says that I can't be nice?

But first there's one thing

An itsy-bitsy little string

And voting for me is the price!”

Silver Spoon tapped her on the shoulder to get her best friend’s attention.

Silver Spoon:

“I've a tiny suggestion

That you should be aware

You could probably win this election

If you show them all you real—“

Diamond Tiara:

"I don't recall asking you to speak!"

Everyone gasped in shock by that sudden outburst as this was a true first that has ever happened. To her one and only best friend no less.

Silver Spoon herself was equally shocked as well. By then it was clear that the pony truly does only care about herself. While she may go along with many of her plots and schemes, she knew when to draw the line at times and knew that’s how friends treat one another.

"Well, if that's how you treat your best friend, then I choose Pipsqueak!" Kambuni stated while raising one of her wings into the air.

"You don't got to this school." Sweetie Belle pointed out.

"Then, you guys should choose Pipsqueak!" Kwato stated while holding the little filly’s forearm up.

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“Stand strong and don't be afraid, ponies

Let's free ourselves from the past.”

Foals:

“He's it! Vote for Pip! Vote!

CMC and Lion Guard Fan Club:

“We'll let honor win out against the tyranny

And make a change that will last…”

Foals:

“Vote for Pip!”

And that’s exactly what they all did. Everyone now knew who the perfect pony for the job is. At the end of the day, it is the pony’s heart not size that truly matters. With all said and done, the votes all were placed one by one as they vote for the pony who truly deserves the position the most.

CMC and Lion Guard Fan Club:

“It's time for a new leader

It's time to make a change

We're here to fight for what we believe.”

Foals:

“Vote for Pip!”

CMC and Lion Guard Fan Club:

“It's finally time we beat her

And play a better game

'Cause when we vote together

There's nothing that we can't achieve.”

Foals:

“Vote for Pip!”

Sometime later, Cheerlie stepped forward in front of every student alongside Rafiki with the results on a clipboard in her hoof. "The votes have been counted The student pony president is…"

Pip bit on his hoof, sweating nervously as their teacher moved to announce the winner's name for all ears to hear. At the same time, Diamond Tiara was looking on smugly and proud, confident that she won as she waited to hear the name…

"Pipsqueak!"

"Huh?!" Her eyes widened in shock and horror while the other students cheered for their new president. She couldn’t comprehend how this happened, to her she’s feeling like this has to be a mistake unable to accept her loss.

"Oh, my gosh, Crusaders! Pip won!" Apple Bloom cheered in delight.

"We did it!" Both Shakku and Gumba high fived each other in excitement.

"I couldn't have won without the hard work of my campaign managers, the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Pip said, smiling gratefully at said the loyal trio themselves.

"Campaign manager cutie marks!" Sweetie Belle looked at her flank, the same time Scootaloo and Apple Bloom looked at theirs…but of course as always, no such marks appeared there. While happy as they were that Pip won, once more they were upset that doing such a good deed itself like that wasn’t enough to earn their cutie marks. Just what exactly are they overlooking?

Diamond Tiara laughed in their faces, earning disgusted looks and scornful glares from the other students, along with the teachers themselves. "Guess you're not as good as you thought, blank flanks! In fact, I demand a recount!"

“Trust me, Diamond Tiara. Pip won." Cheerilee said with the counted votes and clipboard to prove it.

“And it is definitely no error, little one.” Rafiki added to the heated pony herself. “Don’t believe us…” He gestured and offered to allow her inside. “…count them yourself.”

"I'll gladly be the judge of that, Miss Cheerilee! Mr. Rafiki" With her head held up high, Diamond Tiara walked into the school and recounted each of the votes herself.

"Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?! One vote!" She screamed off the top of her lungs as she angrily approached her best friend after her most recent discovery. "Silver Spoon! You didn't vote for me?!"

"No, I didn't." She coldly replied without hesitation or regret much to the pink filly’s shock.

"But you're my best friend!"

"Am I? 'Cause I tried to help by mentioning your 'surprise' statue, and suddenly I wasn't even allowed to speak! You could have actually won this election if you just listened to me. You wanna know how?" Silver Spoon used her hoof to close Diamond Tiara's mouth, which had dropped open due to the shock and whispered, "Sorry. I'm not allowed to speak."

Diamond Tiara's anger boiled over as she screamed in rage before galloping away. The CMC, Lion Guard Fan Club, and Pip looked on in surprise, but Silver Spoon only scoffed in response.

"What? I don't have to follow her drum anymore." She defended before walking off. To her it felt satisfying to do this as she had it coming for a long time after spending it up until this point being nothing but loyal and respectful to most of her wishes.

Afterwards, the Cutie Mark Crusaders looked on in the direction from where Diamond Tiara had run off to. They were starting to feel bad for her while Shakku and Gumba cheered in delight with what they just saw.

"Woohoo!" That'll show her!"

“Long live the Queen!”

“Shakku! Gumba!” Their friends scolded.

“What?!”

“Oh, don’t tell you’re all now actually feeling sorry for her.”

The two defended while highly surprised at the frowns they were getting in response.

“Because we should.” Mtoto said assertively. “Just because a pony’s mean doesn’t mean said pony doesn’t have feelings.”

“I’d hate to say it but Mtoto’s right.” Kwato commented.

Apple Bloom came to agree with them too. “I know Diamond Tiara's been pretty awful, but… we should probably make sure she's okay."

“Do we have to?”

“Even though we don’t owe her anything?!”

Apple Bloom still remained firm about it. "Just 'cause she's never cared about anypony else's feelings doesn't mean we shouldn't care about hers."

Both Shakku and Gumba looked on flabbergasted in response before giving up in frustration.

“True, true…”

“That’s what Fluttershy would say if she were here.”

“Okay.”

“Let’s go find and check up on her.”

"And how was your selfishness any different from Diamond Tiara's?"

The Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club followed the upset pony across town until she reached a large house that definitely belongs to a rich pony that had to be her’s. The door opened and a female pony exited. Said pony has a darker pink coat, grayish pink eyes, and a moderate magenta mane and tail. She also wore a light blue top shirt and a golden necklace around her neck, and her cutie mark was a diamond ring. Said pony is Diamond Tiara’s mother, Spoiled Rich.

Once the mare saw her child walk by, she called out to her. "Diamond Tiara! Why are you making that face? That is not the face of a winner."

Her daughter did not look proud in the slightest, she was instead practically on the verge of tears barely mustering the strength to look at her mother in the eyes as she broke the bad news to her.

"Because… I didn't win."

"What?! You mean I hefted all these party supplies to celebrate nothing?!" Spoiled Rich angrily yelled while the servants removed the party decorations, food and grand marble statue of her daughter in place of what was supposed to be for celebrating her supposed victory.

"Sorry mother."

Now she felt completely disgusted finding any loss no matter how small unacceptable, deeming it unworthy of the family name as she then moved to harshly berate her. “It's bad enough you lost to that transplant from Trottingham, but imagine if you'd lost to one of those blank flanks." Spoiled Rich gagged in disgust to further emphasize it. "As a Rich pony, you must always think of your social standing. That starts here in Ponyville and reaches all over Equestria. Don't ever forget that, Diamond Tiara. Ever!"

Diamond Tiara flinched once more, along with the unnoticed bystanders. The Ce Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club all watched the whole thing, heard every word and for the very first time…their own hearts began to feel pity for her. To think that all of this time she was doing all of this to gain her mother's approval, thus molding the harsh and mean exterior on the surface while inside is nothing more than a sad empty pony with no much-needed love in her heart.

Diamond Tiara remained silent once her mother walked back inside before walking off in sadness with the only other pony she looked up once more frowning in disappointment with her. No matter what she did, nothing got on her mother’s good side, not even being rich and mean like her.

Diamond Tiara:

“If I'm a diamond

Then why do I feel so rough?

I'm as strong as a stone

Even that's not enough

There's something jagged in me

And I've made such mistakes

I thought that diamonds were hard

Though I feel I could break

Would you believe

That I've always wished I could be somepony else?

Yet I can't see

What I need to do to be the pony I want to be.”

The pony watched as her tears fell from her eyes and into the lake bellow the bridge from which she stood. She looked at her reflection and she witnessed others that were having a good time with one another with one thing they all have in common. Friendship and love all rolled into one fully functioning warm heart. She saw the Cakes with their babies, saw Rainbow Dash flying above the clouds with Fluttershy, even spotted Bunga and Beshte laughing like brothers thicker than water.

“I've been told my whole life

What to do, what to say

Nopony showed me that

There might be some better way

And now I feel like I'm lost

I don't know what to do

The ground is sinking away

I'm about to fall through

Would you believe

That I've always wished I could be somepony else?

Yet I can't see

What I need to do to be the pony I want to be...

To be the pony I want to be.”

As the downcast pony walked away, the Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club watched on sadly in her direction.

“Dang…!”

“Harsh…”

Both Shakku and Gumba were the first to speak their minds of what they just saw with their opinion of the filly doing a full 180 with that one scene with her abusive mother alone opening their eyes to why they should take pity for her.

Mtoto sniffled as he began to cry. “No kidding.” He blew his trumpet while wiping the tears from his eyes with his trunk.

"Is it weird that I feel bad for her?" Sweetie Belle asked the others.

"If it is, then... I'm weird, too." Scootaloo commented all while scratching the back of her head like she too had a sudden 180 view on the school bully kick in.

"She wants to change, but she doesn't know how." Kambuni commented while turning to the others wondering what they should do about it.

"Seems like she could use a friend or two to help her find the way." Sweetie Belle voiced feeling they maybe they should try to connect with her and help her feel better so that way her heart could be more open up to friendship like them. The others all nodded and said yes in agreement.

The next day after school, the Crusaders caught up with Diamond Tiara. She had tried to talk with Silver Spoon again, only to be coldly rebuffed in response. She didn't want anything to do with her. Ever.

The pony was just about to head on home until Apple Bloom’s voice called out to her. "Hey, Diamond Tiara! Wait up!"

Diamond Tiara frowned with narrowed eyes in response figuring this is just to be further taken down a peg, especially after all of the times she had taunted them and made fun of their blank flanks.

"What do you three want? To gloat? Rub in my defeat? Don't forget, I could burry you in mud if I wanted to!"

Apple Bloom said otherwise as she shook her head. "Actually, we wanted to invite you to our clubhouse to hang out."

Diamond Tiara reeled back in surprise by that offer since they had never done so before not even from the first time they met.

"Really?"

"Yeah, for real!" Scootaloo said with a smile. "Our friends from the Lion Guard Fan Club are there waiting for us."

"And they're hoping to see you." Sweetie Belle added.

"Is this some kind of joke?" Diamond Tiara asked feeling this is just a setup of some sort. "Payback for those "blank flank" comments?!"

"No, not at all. We just didn't want you to be alone, is all."

Diamond Tiara arched an eyebrow, "No…tricks?"

"Nope!" Sweetie Belle again shook her head along with while giving honest and genuine smiles.

While still unsure, Diamond Tiara felt it was the next best thing compared to enduring another afternoon and evening of more emotional abusive from her mother. What does she got to lose at this point?

"Well, thanks to you all, I don't have any important class president business to attend to or anything. So I might as well."

Sweetie Belle arched an eyebrow in response. "That sounds like a yes..."

Back at the clubhouse, the kids from the Lion Guard fan club are all having fun playing together as they passed the time waiting for Diamond Tiara to show up alongside the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The rich pony upon arriving was rather curious upon seeing them. To her it was what the Lion and Pony Guard would do on a daily basis. Patrolling the Pride Lands and Ponyville all while taking down bad guys while they were at. To her, it sure looked fun to watch.

“What are they doing?" Diamond asked while curiously watching on.

“Playing pretend Lion Guard.” Scootaloo answered. “Right now they are pretending that Janja and his hyenas are invading the Pride Lands.”

“Is that right?”

“Yep.” The Pride Landers gathered together upon seeing she has arrived.

“Oh, hey!” Mtoto greeted. “So glad you could make it!”

“Uh, yeah. And you’re all pretending to be the Lion Guard?”

“Uh-huh.”

“So who’s…” She said with a hoof pointing at each of him and his friends/

“Oh yeah! I’m Applejack and Beshte…”

“As always.” Gumba stated much to his friend’s slight embarrassment.

“He’s Ono…Kwato is Kion, Kambuni is Fuli, and Gumba is both Bunga and Pinkie.”

“And since we’re the Pony Guard, I’m the Dash, Sweetie’s Rarity, and Apple Bloom is both Kion and Twilight.” Scootaloo added.

“But if that’s so, who’s playing the hyenas?” Diamond asked still confused.

“Nobody.” Mtoto shrugged. “We just pretend they’re behind us and act just like the Lion and Pony Guard would if they were here.”

“All while taking turns being different members!” Kambuni added. “Expect for Mtoto of course.”

“Like this!” Mtoto demonstrated he lead everyone on towards an empty bush pretending said enemies are hiding there. “To the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!” All of the kids minus Diamond Tiara all charged towards the bushes where the real Lion and Pony Guard would expect to find them trying to hide there.

Much to Diamond’s surprise there were actual critters dressed and painted like hyenas lurking in the bushes

“Aah!” She yelped upon seeing them.

“It’s okay! They’re not real hyenas! They’re just some of Fluttershy’s critter friends who by the way really enjoy playing this game!” Scootaloo quickly assured while charging ahead on four hooves to deliver a super speedy blow much like her big sister followed by sweeping the critter of his feet. “Yeah! That’s what I’m talking about!” She followed it up with a raspberry at her defeated opponent.

Of course while it is all family-friendly since Fluttershy is never a pony who takes kindly to any of her critter friends (or any other animal getting hurt in that matter) very well, it didn’t stop the kids from having fun or even feeling happy that they can do this together as friends.

“Wouldn’t that attract unwanted attention from the actual Lion and Pony Guard? Like playing and impersonating officers?”

“Not if we don’t do it while the real Guard is on patrol.” Mtoto assured they have learned their lesson from day one in that regard, especially after nearly becoming Janja and his pack’s snacks that day. “And if you’re worried about them, don’t. They’re out patrolling in the Pride Lands right now.”

“Yep.” Sweetie agreed while performing a swift series of punches and kicks much like her big sister Rarity would do in this kind of situation when surrounded by four hyena-colored critters. “As long as we play it right, it’s all good!”

“Yeah!” Apple Bloom agreed while ducking a critter trying to pounce onto her. “No harm, no foul!”

Diamond Tiara could not help but feel strange inside, like she is now seeing things from a new perspective. She’s hardly been out long enough to actually know what spending time with friends and having fun is given that she mostly spends picking on other fillies along with trying to follow in her mother’s hoof steps. It this is all being shown to her by the fillies and kids she antagonized the most.

She continuing watching as Mtoto used his trunk as an arm to bring down critters that tried to leap onto him like Applejack would do if she had her lasso with her. Kambuni gave the biggest, hardest, glare her eyes would give to another critter who reacted just like he would if those were Fluttershy’s eyes looking right at her right now. Then she spotted Shakku and Gumba tag teaming as they moved to leap over every hyena colored critter by jumping on top of their heads all while shouting…

“Hey!”

“Excuse us!”

“Coming through!”

“Zuka Zama!”

Much like Bunga and Pinkie would if it was them.

As she processed all of this as she watched Kwato give a swift kick to another critter, she was beginning to smile in delight…not because out of sadistic pleasure, but more of the fact that all of these kids are all having fun together, like a warm and peaceful feeling has got inside her heart.

She then felt Apple Bloom nudge her gently. "Come on, why don’t you join us!” She offered.

“We could use another member to help us out with the jackals that have now arrived.” Mtoto added just when more critters arrived all wearing colors to dress themselves like the jackals as they all regrouped with the hyena-dressed critters who are all picking themselves off of their paws.

Diamond looked on unsure at first, before working up the courage to raise a hoof in their direction as if she’ll join in…before being whisked on over with the rest of their friends by the little elephant’s trunk.

“Come on!

“You know you want to try it!”

Both Shakku and Gumba tempted as they appeared on top of her.

Upon seeing the encouraging smiles around she moved to join them as the hyenas and jackals all grouped together ready for one last fight. One look from the critters make it clear they are not going down without a fight and are prepared for things to go down the hard way should they refuse to take the easy.

“Do you remember how Kyoga fights?” Kambuni asked to the pony who shook her head yes while truthfully unsure since she isn’t a magic girl.

“Not to worry, it’s easy. You’ll get it as the fight goes on.” Kwato assured as they all took fighting stances ready to charge at the same time their opponents do.

“Just pretend you can punch and kick like you would in martial arts class along with imagining yourself shooting magic from your mind.” Mtoto further advised before turning their heads back to the critters all getting ready to charge. “You ready!” He asked everyone else who looked ready for one more fight. “Then let’s do this!”

“Let’s!” Diamond stated equally ready much to everyone’s else delight to see that she is on aboard.

One of the lead critters cried out that gives the order to order the attack before leading the charge. All of the critters all moved to advance on the kids at the same time they moved to do the same. And every moment of it was like the Lion and Pony Guard would have done if this is the real thing along with some fire and flames surrounding them.

Apple Bloom as Kion and Twilight plowed right into the leader who called for the attack while Scootaloo knocked the jackal-dressed critter who greatly resembles Reirei off of her feet. Mtoto plowed into another hyena dressed critter while Kwato effortlessly kicked away three more all ganging up on her.

Diamond Tiara while initially unsure of what Kyoga would do if she were here remembered her fighting moves before donning a staff which is really a long thin branch that fell onto the ground before charging towards a large pack of hyenas and jackals combined. She spotted the critters all ganging up on both Kwato and Kambuni before quickly yelling out a battle cry before taking them on. She swiftly landed successful punches, kicks, and whacks from her staff even pretending to use her mind like she is harnessing her magic at them. And amazingly, the critters all pretended to be frozen in place before moving to swiftly fly away like they are being hoisted away in thin air.

Shakku and Gumba who were both just tricking a couple of critters into crashing into each other both looked on very impressed with seeing her in action along with both Kambuni and Kwato. For never before have they seen her with such fighting spirit inside of her.

By then the critters all retreated when said leader called for it after seeing the fight is too much for them but not with turning back and approaching them as friends as this was really all just an act, all chattering with excitement with what they just seen today.

“Wow! Um, thanks!” Diamond returned with a smile as the critters all shook her hooves before making their way back to the cottage. “I’m guessing they were saying I was amazing?”

“Are you kidding?!” Scootaloo asked as if it was a joke. “That was amazing!”

“Yeah!” Apple Bloom agreed feeling very impressed. “I don’t think I ever seen you fight like that!”

“Me neither!” Sweetie Belle also voiced feeling equally impressed. “Do you take karate?”

“The night class.” She admitted. “One of the times of the day I can do something on my own that is of course thanks to my mother signing me up wanting to me to be able to fight and defend myself when necessary.”

“Really?” Mtoto curiously asked the filly who nodded.

“Yeah.”

“But if it’s true, then how we come we never seen you use before?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Along with the many past encounters.” Gumba added.

Diamond simply shrugged. “Mainly since my intimidation alone is enough that I didn’t really need to use it…That and the fact one of the main rules of karate is that it is to be used for self-defense, never for vengeance.”

“Interesting.” Shakku commented feeling very interested with this discovery. “Nice to hear that even a local school bully has standards.”

“But you still had fun right?” Kwato asked.

"The most fun I've had in so long!" She stated with genuine happiness before reverting back to her usual prideful nature upon realizing what she was saying. "I mean…it was okay, I guess."

Despite her refusal to admit it, the little group of friends knew that she was coming out of her shell and seeing her take that first step was good enough progress for the time being. And that was enough for them to smile with satisfaction along with a taste of smugness that Diamond would usually give them on one of her worst days.

After the event, the friends took Diamond Tiara inside the clubhouse, where she got to see where they held all of their meetings and such. She walked up to a chart on the wall, the one with all of the crossed off activities they had failed at receiving their cutie marks at.

"So, do you three just sit around here plotting out different ways to try and get your cutie marks?"

"Actually, yeah." Apple Bloom replied.

"And we help in any way we can." Mtoto added.

“Within reason of course.” Kwato said.

"You three are…" Diamond Tiara was silent for a second before continuing, "…really lucky."

"We are?!"

To the Cutie Mark Crusaders this was something they never ever expected to hear from her, not even in a hundred years.

“Really?”

“How so?”

Both the mongoose and baboon spoke being the most surprised out of the whole bunch.

"I mean, you get to explore all these options, learning who you really are before you're stuck with something you don't understand."

The others looked on surprise upon seeing to see this snobby and obnoxious pony suddenly open up like this as this is literally the first time any of them have actually seen a more vulnerable and softer side to her.

Kambuni stepped forward before lowering her neck down to the pony's level. "But… you've done that, right?" She asked.

Diamond Tiara quickly regained her composure and reverted back to her so called confident self.

"Yeah, 'cause I have my cutie mark!" She asserted while pointing at her mark, "And I'm not struggling at all to figure out who I'm supposed to be and what I'm supposed to be doing with this mark that's already on my flank!"

The others arched an eyebrow in response.

"Uh… are you sure about that?" Mtoto asked.

Diamond Tiara scoffed and narrowed her eyes back at him. "That's a weird question."

"Not really, since we kind of overheard you yesterday." Sweetie Belle said.

"Were you trying to get your cutie mark in spying? Is that on your little chart?" She quickly and angrily accused.

"No!” She calmly shook her head and continuing explaining herself speaking heart to heart with her. “We were just worried about you when you lost the election, and then you lost your friend, and then your mom yelled at you…" The more she spoke, the more depressed and hurt Diamond Tiara looked. They had finally figured out the true nature of her attitude, and now she felt she was loosing what she had now that the secret was out.

Apple Bloom approached the pony, placing a hoof on her shoulder, "We know you wanna change, and we think we can help."

"Help? Me? Why would I need help?"

“Because that’s what many ponies and Pride Landers would need in a time like this…” Shakku explained. “…whether they want it or not whether they feel they truly don’t deserve help.”

“And the funny thing being, we didn’t think at first you were deserving of our help until we got a good look at the root of your problem.” Gumba chuckled while trying to laugh it off as a joke to no avail. “Anyways…I know you don’t feel like you deserve it but you don’t need to think that’s the case because deep down you deserve better than what you have now. And we want to be able help out with that. We really do.”

The rest of the crusaders along with the Lion Guard fan club moved to circle around her.

"You don't have to be afraid, Diamond Tiara." Apple Bloom said comfortably. "We want to help."

"But, why? After all the things I did to you? Why would you want to help me?"

"Because everypony deserves a second chance even you. Kambuni replied.

The pony who spent a good few seconds with complexed feelings unable to comprehend any of this moved to open her mouth to say something else, but was interrupted when a scream was heard from outside.

"Help! Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Pip called out to them in distress once again. "I was at the school board meeting and they didn't approve my request for the new playground equipment!"

"Why not?" Kambuni asked.

"There's no money in the budget!" Pip pulled out his piggy bank, which had nothing inside but link, some candy wrappers and a dead fly. "So I checked my Peggy bank to see if I had enough bits, but my little Peggy wasn't nearly full enough!"

Sweetie Belle quickly assured. "Don't worry, Pip!"

"We'll meet you back at school." Scootaloo added.

"And help you find a solution!" Apple Bloom further added and assured.

"Thanks, Cutie Mark Crusaders!" Pip said in gratitude before heading off back to school to wait for them to help out.

Diamond Tiara upon hearing this however smiled deviously. "Oh, I already have a solution! Our new student pony president is gonna be kicked out of office, and I'll be reinstated!"

"What?!”

“Are you crazy?!”

Both the mongoose and baboon exclaimed in horrified shock at what she is now thinking about doing.

“Nope!” Diamond Tiara shook her head and then quickly ran down the stairs of the clubhouse as fast as her pony legs could carry her, leaving the ponies and Lion Guard Fan Club who had tried to be her friends behind.

"Where's she going?" Scootaloo asked.

"Where do you think?!" Mtoto replied before leading the way alongside Apple Bloom after the pink filly up to no good yet again.

“Come on! After her!”

The kids all moved to pursue Diamond so they can stop her before she does something she’ll regret with any chance to redeem herself going up in smoke should she proceed to go through with it.

At the same time while she personally admitted to herself that her time with them was fun.

Diamond Tiara:

“Cutie Mark Crusaders, Lion Guard fan club, get out of my way

Those ponies need to know the truth

And they'll hear it from me.”

CMC and Lion Guard fan club:

“Stop! Diamond Tiara, this is not the way

You know you're better than this hostility.”

They tried to pull ahead and block her path, but the pony only maneuvered them by effortlessly dodging they attempts to cut her off. She didn't want to harm them but she refused to allow them to stop her. When that didn’t work the kids all continued following her.

Diamond Tiara:

“You don't even know me at all

Don't understand the meaning of my fall

What my family would think if I ever

Fail at anything

I'm a diamond – that means you'll never break

No matter what be the cost of the path I take

Whatever I have to do to win in the end.”

Kwato moved to intercept Diamond along with Sweetie Belle in an attempt to stop the pony from making a fatal and regrettable mistake.

Kwato and Sweetie Belle:

“Stop! This is not the answer.”

Diamond Tiara ignored them and ran beside them, only to be briefly stopped when Kambunii and Scootaloo intervened.

Kambuni and Scootaloo:

“Wait! And it's plainly seen.”

She ran pass them as well, only to encounter Mtoto and Apple Bloom who appeared right in front of her

Mtoto and Apple Bloom:

“Listen! You can redeem yourself

But by helping others, not by being mean.”

The children all grouped together while keeping up their pursuit of the filly who still persisted on ahead.

CMC and Lion Guard fan club:

“We know you want friends who admire you

You want to be the star with all the power too

But there's a better way, there's a better wa-a-ay

There's so much more still left to

Learn about yourself

See the light that shines in you

We know you can be somepony else.”

Diamond Tiara was now more torn and confused than before. Torn whether to give up her recently learned kindness and hospitality just for the sake of approval.

The Lion Guard Fan Club and Crusaders then were stop her several feet before her, standing between two roads, one was dark that led to her choice of ratting out Pip along with a life of no return as there is no one else on that path with her not even Silver Spoon, while the other was bright with a Rainbow Promise filled with her true passion and happiness. She didn't know which path to take, which was the right one. She just didn't know, but these humans and ponies had faith in her, and that was something she never had before.

“You can stop right now

And try another start

You'll finally free yourself from the dark

And see the light

And see the light of your cutie mark.”

Sadly, Diamond Tiara did not choose the Promise road instead choosing the dark path which she feels is the right path. The only path she felt comfortable with taking through her whole life, she was not giving it up so easily.

Once she reached the school she spoke to everyone gathered there. "Everypony, I have an announcement!"

"Diamond Tiara! Think hard about the choice you're makin' right now!" Apple Bloom pleaded.

"You can be a better pony!" Scootaloo said.

Shakku stepped forward and spoke up, "Diamond Tiara, please! I know you really want to be president once again and I understand why.”

“And we’re sorry that we gave you a hard time the most, more than any pony at this school but we’re telling you now that this is not the best course of action of how to handle all of this. Just please, reconsider and take their hoof in friendship if not ours.” Gumba pleaded.

"Diamond Tiara!"

All eyes fell upon Spoiled Rich, who just walked out of the school building, looking down upon her daughter like she always did with her trademark snotty frown. "I just happened to be here for the school board meeting, and this is what I see when we adjourn? My daughter associating with confused, insignificant lowlifes and pitiful humans?"

The kids all angrily growled and gritted their teeth at them with Mtoto, Kwato, and Kambuni having to hold both Shakku and Gumba back by the tails to prevent them from attacking her.

"Why I ought to...I'll show you what a lowlife looks like you..."

"Let me at her! Let me at her!"

"Socializing with their kind is not how you move up in Equestria! Come, Diamond Tiara!"

The pony however didn’t comply as she was starting to think of what she truly wants. It was pretty clear to her for the first time her mother doesn’t really care about what she wants. And by trying to follow in her hoof steps she wound acting mean and nasty to everyone around her and ended up at a very low point where she had no friends standing by her side. She no longer wants that. What she truly wants is what truly makes her happy something that she was just recently shown. Something that she wants herself on not what somepony else says. To her it was time she spoke her mind and take the right course of action.

"No, mother!"

Spoiled Rich spun around in shock upon hearing that. "Excuse me?!"

"You've spent your life acting like a high horse and raised me to follow in your hoofprints! At first I thought this was fine, but then I finally realized I wanted something you don't have – friends!"

The Crusaders and Lion Guard Fan Club gasped in shock, along with Rafiki, Miss Cheerilee, and the all of the other foals. Spoiled Rich was already looking uneasy and hot under the collar. She may be popular and rich but she truly doesn’t have any friends due to her self-serving nature. Like mother like daughter until now she carried herself with a proud and egotistical nature thinking that it’ll get them far in life, but really it doesn’t give any true happiness deep down. And now came the day her own daughter is finally telling her where to stick it.

"That's enough, Diamond Tiara! Step away from those blank flanks!"

But the filly refused to listen to her, "These are the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and they are my friends! You need to stop calling them such mean and hurtful names! They are working harder to get their cutie marks than anypony I've ever seen! And they will get them exactly when they discover their true talent, which I guarantee will be amazing!"

Spoiled Rich…now was left speechless. She had never had her own child speak up and call her out like this, and if she said anything it could be messy for her. She would get massive backlash if word got around of her verbally abusive attitude towards her and nopony would ever want to associate with her again whether she was rich and popular or not. She would lose it in an instant.

"Now, will you please deliver this to father?" Diamond Tiara pulled out a letter and handed it to her mother with her mouth.

"Yes, of course, dear…" Spoiled Rich respectfully took the letter and walked away with only a lot to think about going forward.

Diamond Tiara smiled at the Lion Guard Fan Club and the Crusaders with genuine kindness for the very first time in her life.

"I have to thank you all. Obviously I've known since I got my cutie mark that my talent is getting other ponies to do what I want. I just asked my father if he could donate the money for the new playground equipment!"

Miss Cheerilee, Rafiki, and the children all cheered happily at the news. They are all getting that new playground, along with a new friend while they’re at it. The once mighty and high up her horse bully was now gone as she moved to approach Pip, with a friendly smile and teasing wink.

"I knew you were worried for a second there, weren't you? Ha! Well, I think it's all gonna work out just fine, Mister President!"

"Wise words my friend. Very wisely said if I do say so myself." Rafiki commended while patting a hand on her back to further get the filly to smile feeling very proud with what she just did herself.

Diamond Tiara:

“We'll build a playground

For all of us to enjoy

So full of games

There's enough for each girl and boy

I want to help and do

Everything that I can

I'm here to show you I changed

Listen up, here's the plan.”

Diamond Tiara helped the delivery pony with the large boxes of the playground equipment. "Bring it in! That's right, keep it coming!"

She approached one of the ponies she had teased before, smiling kindly, "Hey there, you with the amazing strength. Can you help them move that merry-go-round across the lawn?" The pony, no longer feeling ashamed of it, did as she was asked and helped the duo of ponies in moving the old merry-go-round.

"Thank you so much!" Diamond Tiara turned to another pony, "And you with the super teeth, we need you to help with that teeter-totter." the pony happily complied and lifted the thing with his powerful jaws, "You got it! That's the spirit!"

Diamond Tiara had never felt happier in her life. She finally discovered what her cutie mark represented. It wasn't being a bossy know-it-all, it was being a leader. A good leader with a good heart. Her heart was once closed up, hard and cold and desired selfish pursuits, only now it was finally opened, thawed and filled with only selfless desires. She felt like a brand new pony, and she couldn't be happier.

“There's so much I can do

To help everypony else

I see the light that shines in me

I know I can be my better self

I can free the past

'Cause now the future's bright for me

My cutie mark has set me free

To do what's right and be the pony I want to be

And be the pony I want to be!”

The playground never looked better, and same can be said with Diamond Tiara. Not only did she even manage to make up with Silver Spoon, who forgave her, but now she had even more friends who loved her not for her riches, but for her new found heart. Friends that include fillies that used to look at her with fear in their hearts, a couple of teachers who couldn’t really approach her with that former attitude of her’s, and children who managed to get her into opening up her eyes to what she truly wants in life, friendship and happiness.

Said new friends the Lion Guard Fan Club are standing beside her right now feeling very comfortable being around her along with being proud with what she just today.

“Congratulations, Diamond Tiara!”

“Yeah, way to go, Diamond!”

“Thanks, Shakku. You too, Gumba.” She humbly returned. “Hard to believe that this really happening right?”

“Yeah. And the funny thing is how this happened when we about to insist against the idea of helping you in the first place.”

“And by doing the right thing, things actually worked out for the better.”

“Funny, right.”

“Yes.” Diamond giggled in response. “Even when you both didn’t have to and took great exception for my past behavior.”

“Yep.” They both replied in unison once more before hugging it out like good friends usually do.

Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle watched from afar as the group embraced. It was there Apple Bloom gave what had just happened recently some deep thought. "I've been thinkin', Crusaders. We spend an awful lot of time fussin' and frettin' tryin' to discover our true talent. But when we take a little time off, we end up helpin' others figure out their true talent!"

Sweetie Belle nodded in agreement with that assessment. "Yeah, and I think that's way more important than worrying about our cutie marks, don't you?"

"Absolutely!" Scootaloo stated while flapping her wings happily before wrapping the other two into a hug, "I don't care if I ever get my cutie mark as long as I get to hang out with my best friends."

"So what do you say, Crusaders?" Apple Bloom suggested. "Want to just focus on helpin' others find their cutie marks?"

"Yeah!"

The three ponies high hoofed one another with that personal promise between the trio made. From this day forward simply focusing on making others feel special was reward enough.

Suddenly, something strange happened. Once their hooves touched, a strange glowing bright white energy wave coursed through their bodies, wrapping the three in a powerful and beautiful sparkling aura. Their bodies rose up from the ground as they felt something awaken within them. It was a sensation they had never felt or experienced before. Instead of being scared they felt at peace, like this was something they had been seeking all along. While they didn't know exactly how to react but let it run its course.

The Lion Guard fan club gasped alongside the other ponies as they watched what happened to their friends. Their eyes widened once the three landed softly on the ground, the lower part of their bodies glowing before disappearing. Once it did, the three fillies stood up and were surprised to see everybody gasping in awe, smiling, and tearing up.

"What happened?" Sweetie Belle curiously asked.

"What's goin' on?" Apple Bloom asked, equally curious and confused at what had just happened.

"It's your cutie marks!" Diamond Tiara said while pointing towards their flanks. "They're amazing!"

Initially, they didn’t dare to look. To them like before, it could be just another dream or another yank the dog’s chains moment should they dare. Was it actually possible? Did this day finally happen?

They finally moved to look upon their flanks, and as exactly as Diamond Tiara had stated on their flanks, Three Brand New Cutie Marks!!

Each one was in the form of a shield, divided into colors of three: red, pink and purple. Apple Bloom's shield had the image of an Apple with a heart on the center. Sweetie Belle's had a star with a music note while Scootaloo had a wing with a lightning bolt.

"Girls, do you know what this means?! You got them!" Kwato cheered, tears of joy streaming down from her eyes, "You actually have them!"

The Crusaders couldn't contain their excitement any longer as they leaped and jumped with pure happiness and glee upon seeing this all actually happening and that they finally did it.

"We all got the same cutie mark! Cutie Mark Crusaders forever!"

After so long, they finally got their cutie marks. They have never been happier that before. To think, the one moment where they would decide to no longer worry about their marks or even try desperately to search for them would be on the very same day they would appear. It was like Rafiki said in order for them to find their true calling they just had think about instead pursing random activities of potential interest in order for that to happen. And in return not only do they have them now but they have marks that symbolize of how special their bond is, how special their friendship is.

Cutie Mark Crusaders;

“We were searching for our cutie marks

For a while there

Trying to find out how we fit in

So many ways we've tried before

But we kept on trying more

'Cause the Cutie Mark Crusaders don't give in.”

Scootaloo:

“Now we know what it took all along.”

Sweetie Belle:

“And our journey here is never really done.”

Apple Bloom:

“For it is more than just a mark

It's a place for us to start.”

With their classmates, teacher and friends by their side, The Crusaders marched into town, amazing everybody with their new marks all equally proud of them.

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“An adventure that has only just begun

We'll make our mark

Show the world what we can do

We'll make our mark

Helping fillies to break through

To the ultimate reward of a cutie mark.”

In order to celebrate, Pinkie Pie arranged a cute-ceañera party at Pride Rock, where they are all praised near and far by everyone from the kingdom along with many ponies who gathered to be here for this very special day.

"All right, everypony! Get ready for the biggest cute-ceañera celebration ever!" Pinkie Pie cheered while throwing confetti all across the area.

Applejack couldn't stop herself from crying, and neither could Granny Smith or Big Mac. The day that Apple Bloom would find her true calling has finally came.

"Oh, sugarcube, if Mom and Dad were here, they'd be so proud of ya." Applejack said while ruffling her little sister’s hair.

"Oh… Thanks, Applejack."

"Now go on and party with your pals."

The girls all stepped forward and approached the edge of Pride Rock while their close friends and family watch on with big smiles and deep pride for them. Both Rainbow Dash and Fuli approached Scootaloo with the former ruffling her mane and the latter hugging her while they were both the most proud out of all of them.

“Well done, Scootaloo! You are now officially marked as not only an honorary Crusader but also my special honorary sister!”

Rainbow Dash:

“I'm so proud of you, little buddy

You've taught me a thing or two.”

Rarity held her little sister close to her heart as she wiped away tears of joy from her eyes.

Rarity:

“You've inspired everypony around you

And you've inspired me too.”

Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack:

“You've made your mark

Done Equestria so proud

You've made your mark

And we're here to sing it loud

For the ultimate reward of your cutie mark.”

The Crusaders received a warm brotherly hug from both Bunga and Beshte, with the former ruffled Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle's manes. "What did I tell you? I told you all that day would come soon, and boy those are such great-looking cutie marks if I do say so myself!”

“They sure are!” Apple Bloom happily said.

“You all happy with your new cutie marks?” Beshte asked with a smile. “Because I sure am.”

“We are!” Sweetie happily stated.

Princess Twilight and Prince Kion approached them both smiling proudly at the girls with Twilight having tears of joy falling from her eyes.

“Words right now cannot describe of how proud I am of you girls! And I can tell you all you all have definitely earned your cutie marks!”

“And I could not have said it any better myself! Congratulations, girls!”

They both then levitated the girls three more gifts for them to have to commemorate the occasion, something that Rarity had quickly created with her own two sewing hooves. Capes with images of their new cutie marks on the back. Something they all graciously accepted.

The Lion and Pony Guard:

“You started out just three

Crusaders driven to see

What you find in our hearts

Discover your destiny

And here you are, best friends

About to start it again

An adventure that never will end.”

Cutie Mark Crusaders:

“We'll make our mark

Helping fillies most in need

We'll make our mark

So each one of them succeeds

'Cause the ultimate reward is a cutie mark!”

Everybody gathered together for a photo, taken by Rafiki, and once they did Spike magically sent the letter to Canterlot, where Celestia opened it with Luna present. Luna smiled once she saw the picture of the three little fillies with their new cutie marks. She couldn't be prouder at her little subjects than everyone else. To everyone it was truly a day no one in both kingdoms will ever forget.

Author's Note

Here in this musical episode, we are back focusing on the young ones again as the Cutie Mark Crusaders embark on another mission to try to obtain their cutie marks as they try t help one their dear friends, Pipsqueak run a campaign to become the new class president going up against the incumbent, local school resident bully, Diamond TIara.

What starts off as a usual day of the pony hi-jinks and ambitious intent, takes a different turn when there is more that meets the eye to Diamond Tiara and what she goes through when she is not in public or at school. And it's all thanks to her abusive mother who has been nothing but overbearing with high expectations towards her for her entire life thus paving her for her attitude up until this very episode.

With the Lion Guard fan club by their side, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were able to bond with Diamond and got her to see what really is her true talent, her true self, and what kind of friend she could be if she gave friendship a chance and be able to finally stand up to her mother along with becoming a redeemed pony herself. And after working together to creating a new playground the school really deserved and needed, something magical happened...

...The Cutie Mark Crusaders finally getting their cutie marks!

Yep! After all of this time it finally happened, and it occurred when the very lesson they needed to learn finally sunk in and that's how they truly deserved this lifelong reward to cap off a beautiful episode.

Next up we focus back on the mane cast where the news of a new member of the royal family coming sets in stone the plot as both Pinkie and Ono have to try their hardest to ensure that the surprise stays a surprise, and knowing Pinkie, keeping a secret like that is a very tough and tall order, so look out for that sometime next week, so stay tuned...

Episode 32: The One Where Pinkie and Ono Knows

Episode 32:

The One Where Pinkie Knows

"Five hundred and sixty-six, five hundred and sixty-seven, five hundred and sixty-eight…Phew!" Pinkie Pie wiped away the sweat from her brows before sliding down the ladder she had been standing on for the past hour. The pony was covered in baking powder and cake batter, along with her chef's hat, but she was still smiling and being cheerful about everything around her as always. She looked on proudly at her work as she had just got done icing exactly five hundred and sixty-eight cupcakes. All neatly placed on seven plates, all stacked one over, decorated with beautiful flowers and a bell ornament arch at the top tied together with a lovely purple bow.

"Look at that, Pound Cake! I am so close to breaking my personal cupcake-icing record!" She said to the baby foal, sucking on a pacifier while riding on Pinkie's pet gator, Gummie.

“And you’ll get there once you have more ingredients to make enough cupcakes to ice with…” Bunga spoke as he rolled in a cart of more freshly made cupcakes while wearing a chef’s apron and hat. “…which I already took the liberty to have prepared for you!”

“Perfect!” Pinkie moved to hug the flour coated honey badger. “You’re the best!”

Bunga smiled proudly. “Don’t I know it?”

Just then, another pony walked in, Mrs. Cake carrying the other baby twin sister on her back reading a letter she had just received. Upon reading the letter’s contents she gasped in shock. “My goodness! I can't believe what I'm seeing here!"

"Pretty impressive if I do say so myself." Pinkie Pie proudly smiled while leaning against her accomplishment though it wasn’t exactly what was on her mind, even though she would definitely say yes had she been completely paying attention to her surrondigns.

"Pinkie, Bunga, would you mind watching the counter while I pop to the supply room? We've just received a very special order, and the ingredients need to be perfect."

"Okie-dokie-lokie."

“Sure thing!”

"Thanks, dears!" Mrs. Cake quickly zipped away, dropping the letter in the process and causing both Pinkie and Bunga to spin around and lock their eyes on the paper she had just dropped.

"Wonder what good stuff is in here?" Bunga wondered as he got a good look at what content is on it. As both read the letter the more their eyes sparked with curiousity that literally had their eyes locked on the writing itself.

“What good stuff?” Ono asked as he flew inside and managed to get a good scan at the writing from above. “Oh…”

“…my…”

“…goodness! A baby?!"

“A baby?!”

"Ye-ha!" Pinkie exclaimed happily while tightly hugging Ono to the point he can’t breath.

“So it is finally happening!”

“So Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“Shining Armor and Princess Cadance are having a baby! Woo hoo!”

“This is the best news ever!”

“Both Twilight and Kion are going so psyched!”

Just then, Mrs. Cake popped her head inside the room they were in once she heard all the commotion, "Oh, em, Pinkie, uh... it's a top secret surprise." She said with a whisper before heading back to the supply room. The excitement had died down and Pinkie Pie released Ono, who was already turning blue in the face for a lack of oxygen. Once he was free, he took in the biggest inhale he could master.

"A top secret surprise?!" Pinkie started to panic. "That means I have to keep the exciting news... *gulp* ...to myself!"

“So…?”

“You’ve kept secrets before. You even forced us to Pinkie Promise on many secrets about our friends. Even the time when Ono needed ointment for…”

“Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey!” Ono hastily interrupted. “Remember the Pinkie Promise for that! I don’t want to talk about and you both swore you would never bring it up again!”

“Anyways…how does is this secret so different than every other secret?!”

"Are you kidding?! There is going to be a new born foal in the Sparkle Family!” Shining Armor and Princess Cadance are going to be parents! Twilight is going to be an aunt! Kion is going to be an uncle! How can I not tell them?!”

“Easy. You just don’t.” Ono simply replied with an emotionless expression.

“And maybe try thinking of something else to keep your mind off of anything related to babies. Like these cupcakes that need icing.” Bunga added while pointing to said cupcakes there just recently pulled straight out from the oven. “Think more about that and you’ll forget all about it. It’ll be Hakuna Matata…” He snapped his fingers. “…just like that.”

“You’re right about that, Bunga…for once.” Ono admitted.

“Of course I’m right. I can be right almost any other day! Isn’t that right?”

“Yes!”

“No.”

Pinkie replied happily while still unsure if she can deep down while Ono just gave another blank look in his direction.

“Exactly! Everything’s going to work out fine no matter what happens next! I’m sure of it!”

“Doubt it…” Ono muttered to himself as he is beginning to feel that maybe telling both Kion and Twilight will actually spare them the trouble for once in his life. If only some things were done as much as they could be said. If only…

The next day, Pinkie Pie was heading off to Twilight's castle where she and everyone else from the Guard have been summoned first thing in the morning. Gummy rested on Pinkie’s back as she tried to continuously remind herself of the secret she knew and has to keep.

"Even though I didn't technically make a Pinkie Promise to Mrs. Cake, I can't tell Twilight or anypony the big news! That would make me a... a... a big old surprise ruiner! Right, Gummy?"

Gummy was sucking on pacifier, which only made Pinkie giggle. "Did you take that from Pound Cake again? Don't you know it's wrong to steal from a baby?"

"What's all this about a baby?" Rarity asked once she approached her friend. She was accompanied by Kyoga. Their presence, and the mention of the word 'baby' was enough to get Pinkie to get nervous as she tried to dismiss the claim as calmly as she can.

"What? Who? What? Who said something about a baby?!"

Rarity arched an eyebrow, "You did, Ms. Pie, just now."

"Is everything okay?" Kyoga asked, "What were you talking about?"

Pinkie Pie started to panic, this secret was too big for her to keep to herself. She then remembered Bunga and Ono’s advice. She then recollected herself and just acted like what just happened never happened. “Nothing. Nothing at all.” She then merrily made her way inside much to both friends confusion.

“Um, okay…” Kyoga said just flat out confused.

“…what was that about?” Rarity asked.

“Knowing Pinkie, I’d have to say she’s having trouble keeping something to herself.” She deduced.

“Like what could it be?”

“Good question. Probably has something to do with baby troubles.” She replied while noticing the anxious pony who is already making her way inside while taking the pacifier from Gummy and began sucking on it herself.

“Most likely.”

With enough said the two followed after her inside so they can meet up with Twilight for her important meeting inside the castle throne room.

Once inside the castle, Pinkie and Rarity took their spots on their respected thrones. Pinkie saw Flash, inconspicuously pointing at his hoof, silently asking if the rubber band was working. She rubbed her hooves and smiled in response while nodding.

"Great! Everybody's here." Twilight told everyone, looking especially happy today. In fact she has been feeling happier with every passing day as the Princess of Friendship. All of the Lion and Pony Guard had gathered together to hear the princess's announcement. Spike unfolded a scroll and Twilight levitated it so she can read it word for word.

"Now I don't have to wait any longer to tell you all the wonderful news! Somepony special is coming to visit Ponyville, and I need your help getting everything ready!"

"Ooh, who's coming?" Bunga asked rather excited himself like he doesn’t know what is really happening right now.

"It's…"

"Shining Armor and Princess Cadance!" Both Pinkie Pie and Twilight said in unison, thus surprising everyone inside the room. Ono can only face palm himself upon seeing that the secret keeper is starting to crack.

“Hapana…”

Twilight arch an eyebrow in confusion but still continued none of the less. "Yes, and they're coming—"

"Tomorrow!" Both ponies said in unison once again. Pinkie smiled nervously, her eyes darting all over the place before landing on Ono and Bunga, who both looked on like she was crazy.

"Yes, on the—"

"Friendship Express rather than the Crystal Empire train so as not to cause too much of a scene when they skip town to come visit?" *squee*

"Yes." Twilight responded, rather unsure and confused as to how Pinkie Pie knew all of this in advance. Pinkie then gained up on Twilight, hoping for her to say more. She hoped that maybe she was already told about it so she would no longer have to worry about keeping it anymore.

"Annnnnd?"

"And that's it."

"Oh." Pinkie backed off, with her ears lowering in disappointment.

"Uh, how did you know all that?" Kion asked, rather suspiciously. Much like the princess, he could tell when one of their friends in their inner circle wasn’t being completely honest, including keeping a secret from someone. But Pinkie still persisted in trying to ensure it wasn’t something she wasn’t supposed to know in advance.

She simply shrugged as she laughed nervously. “Uh…just a lucky guess from my Pinkie Sense.” She sat back on her throne getting a grip on it to keep herself under control or at least try to restrain herself.

“Right…” Kion said still looking on suspiciously and unconvinced that’s it just a mere Pinkie Sense. After all, her tail didn’t twitch in the slightest which is what happens when her Pinkie Sense truly goes off.

"So, you said you needed our help with something?" Rainbow asked.

"Follow me." Twilight flapped her wings and the group followed her to her upstairs bedroom, which she had decorated with some interesting items. On the floor was a railroad track with a toy train, a chest with an assortment of boy-themed toys such as action figures, toy armor and even several comics books, an ant farm on the counter and even a few posters of action hero ponies.

“Poa!” Beshte gasped in awe.

"Sweet posters!" Rainbow Dash complimented.

Bunga rushed over and gasped at the pony on the image. "No way! Is that Smash Fortune?"

Twiight giggled upon seeing that he is a big fan of his comics. “It sure is! When Shining Armor said he wanted to come to the castle and visit, I started collecting things he liked when he was a colt as a surprise!"

"Surprise?!" Pinkie Pie's head popped out from the toy chest donning a warrior's helmet on her head. Once she saw the glare from Ono’s eyes she laughed nervously before covering her face and mouth with the helmet.

With that moment aside the egret looked around the assortment of action figures, all perfectly polished and organized for his arrival. "I can definitely tell that you really did a thorough job because this has got to be the entire collection do date, Twilight."

“It sure is!”

Fluttershy smiled at the little insects walking within the glass case, "Aww, look at the cute little ant farm!”

"And check out all these old comic books!" Spike said as he held up one of the old books, which were all in their mint condition packaging.

"Be careful, Spike!" Kion warned. "They're mint-in-bag!"

Spike blew off some of the dust from the cover…only to accidentally burn it with his fire. The dragon whistled nervously as he placed the burned remains into one of the plastic packages.

“I’ll take that!” Kion quickly whisked the bag away with his magic and then used his mind to make a copy of the comic that Spike accidentally burned.

“Right…will do.” He just simply placed the comic back in it’s original resting place before sprinting away from it in a dash.

Pinkie Pie rummaged through Shinning Armor's old toys and found one that looked like a stuffed pony, similar in style to Twilight's old SmartyPants doll. "What's this?" she asked.

"This is Brutus Force. Shining Armor used to carry him around like his baby!"

Hence, Pinkie’s trigger word. No matter what she tried putting her mind to she still couldn’t keep her mind off of the big surprise. She nearly dropped the toy before placing it back into the chest, laughing nervously.

"Yeah! Really cute!"

Both Kion and Twilight looked at their friend very suspiciously. Still trying to understand why she is acting like this. If they didn’t know any better they’d think she’s hiding something and doing a rather terrible job at it.

At the same time, Ono was feeling equally anxious. While keeping a secret is normally no biggie for him, dealing with the stressed out party pony at the same time was starting to get him to crack. But he had to keep his beak shut since this surprise would mean so much to both leaders of the Guard. It had to be Shining Armor who told him otherwise then the surprise would be ruined. He would never deprive of him of the fact that both of his friends are going to be an uncle and aunt, nor would he even dream of doing anything like that.

"It is a bit juvenile for castle décor, but it is very sweet of you." Rarity commented.

"I'm sure Shining Armor will love it." Fuli assured with a kind smile.

Twilight smiled thankfully in response. "Me, too. But there's a few more things I'd like to add before he gets here, and I could really use a hoof collecting them."

"Whatever you need, sugarcube, we'll help you get it." Applejack said ready to make good on that promise.

“And that I can definitely help you out there!” Kion added with full support. “Any family of yours is family of mine too!” And that’s a fact that everyone know for sure ever since he first met both ponies and has definitely been cemented ever since their wedding.

"Thanks, Kion." Twilight said feeling very grateful for the support especially Kion’s. "Thanks, everybody and everypony! I just can't wait 'til they walk in and see everything!"

"Totally understandable." Beshte agreed. "Like my dad always says, Watching somebody else be surprised with something is almost better than being the one who's getting the surprise!"

“You’ve said it!” Kyoga nodded in agreement.

"But… eh…" Pinkie Pie crawled out of the toy chest, her eyes widening more along with her increasing heart rate with every word she tries to process out of her mouth. "What if the surprise is something so incredibly exciting that a pony can't keep it in any longer, and she has to tell the pony standing next to her what it is or she might explode?!”

She hugged Fluttershy so tightly she nearly choked her to death. "I would say... no." She merely replied.

"That'd be as bad a breaking a Pinkie Promise." Bunga pointed out. "Probably worse."

Rarity then started to gain up on Pinkie Pie as she too agreed with them. "The pony who ruins a surprise for somepony else has to live with that guilt forever!"

Pinkie Pie laughed nervously before sucking in her lips. It was clear now that she couldn't be around her friends, unless she wanted to ruin her surprise and be burden with that guilt for the rest of her live.

"Gotta bounce!" She quickly said before rolling herself into a ball, and then bounced around the room like a ping-pong ball before crashing into the wall of the castle and running off much to the others confusion.

Rainbow Dash was the first speak her mind about it. "So, I know the bar is set pretty high, but does anybody else think Pinkie Pie was acting weirder than usual?"

"She looked like she was hiding something." Kion deduced before turning to Ono. “Any idea what might be bugging her?”

“Don’t know!” He said while acting like it’s a mystery to him too while darting his eyes around feeling nervous himself with sweat falling onto his beck. “But I’ll tell you what. I’ll check up on her to make sure she’s okay.”

“Good idea.” Kion approved. “And let us know so we can help her out if she needs it, okay.”

“I’ll try.” He said before flying out the window in pursuit of Pinkie Pie which is truthfully the best reply he could give without making it a promise.

Pinkie Pie zoomed across town before reaching Sugar Cube Corner and closed the door shut while breathing heavily. "Phew, that was close! Too close. I almost spilled the beans. Beans that would be really hard to clean up!” She then continued stressing over the need to keep this a secret for Twilight’s sake along with Kion’s. “I obviously can't be around my friends right now. Or anypony for that matter! Hmmm... That's it! If Shining Armor and Cadance are coming tomorrow, then all I have to do is lock myself in my room away from everypony until they arrive! Then I won't ruin anything!"

"Oh, good, you're back!" Mr. Cake happily told her upon opening the door much to the pink pony’s startled surprise.

"Mrs. Cake needs my help, but these deliveries can't wait! I can't thank you enough for agreeing to be my backup delivery pony, Pinkie!"

"I… did?"

Twenty four hours ago….

Mr. Cake recounted the boxes he had stocked onto his cake cart, "Maybe I should hire somepony to be my backup delivery pony." He said to himself out loud.

"I'll do it!" Pinkie immediately volunteered, while she stirred the bowl of chocolate cake batter while sitting on the front porch of the store.

"Really?"

"Sure! There's no possible way that I could ever have anything that might interfere with doing that task, like a gigantic, emotionally exhausting surprise that would make it super hard to be around other ponies."

"Great! Uh, you're sure you won't change your mind?"

"No way! Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!"

Twenty four hours later…

"Oh, yeah.” She remembered now. “I Pinkie Promised I'd do it. And I never break a Pinkie Promise! Never!"

"Well, thanks again! You're a real cake-saver!"

Once Mr. Cake left, Pinkie sighed, her puffy mane practically deflating as she laid down on the stairs, looking distraught at what she just promised without realizing it.

"Hm. Maybe it'll be a quiet day and I can just avoid everypony!" She hoped to herself thinking she’ll still have hardly anyone to talk to all day with an optimistic smile...

…before opening the door to be greeted with many ponies she’s well acquainted with all around town. To her this job just got harder than she expected.

Regardless of the situation, Pinkie Pie still pressed forward with it unable to break her Pinkie Promise to Mr. Cake. She placed on a disguise, which was really one of those plastic funny glasses with the red nose, fake eyebrows and mustache, similar to when she spied on the Lion and Pony Guard once. She tiptoed her way across town, the wagon of cake’s polls were attached to her back in order to pull it trying her hardest not to be obvious about like last time as she hid behind every tree, house, bush and stand she could find. So far so good, she thought to herself. Maybe this plan of hers will work after all…

"Hiya, Pinkie Pie!"

Apple Bloom’s voice called to her. The Cutie Mark Crusaders, now with their brand new cutie marks, walked up to their friend who began to sweat nervously.

"Heard any good gossip today?" Sweetie Belle hopefully asked.

"Yeah, we're bored." Scootaloo added. "Please say you have some interesting news."

Pinkie's eyes darted back and forth, forcing a wide and innocent looking smile on her face. "Nope!" She quickly replied before dashing off, away from the fillies much to their confusion before shrugging it off to find somepony else that knows of something juicy.

Pinkie ran as fast as her hooves to could take, before she bumped into someone else causing her ‘disguise to fall off and land on said guy he bumped into. Ono who is now wearing her 'disguise' while he was just looking for her.

"Pinkie! There you are! I was just looking for you."

"Ono! You have no idea of what I just got myself into! I just remembered that I promised to be Mr. Cake's backup delivery pony and just after I thought to myself that if I tried avoiding everypony I could avoid telling anyone about the big secret! Not only to find I can’t get myself to stop thinking about it!” Ono quickly placed a wing on her mouth to ensure no one is around to hear them.

“Pinkie, its okay as long you calm yourself and take a deep breath.” He attempted to assure the pony who did just that once Ono let go of his grip on her. “Okay?” She nodded. “Okay, here’s what’s going to happen. I’ll be by your side while you take care of these cakes. That way I can help you get the job done faster and you wouldn’t have to worry about dealing nor speaking with anybody and anypony else.”

“Really?”

"Of course! And by the time this is all over we’ll have both forgotten about what we were stressing about. That shouldn’t be too hard should it?"

“Nope.“

"Pinkie! Ono!"

The two flinched when Fluttershy appeared. "Fluttershy, what a surprise!" Pinkie said before catching what she just said, "I mean, not a surprise!"

Ono quickly spoke up over her while placing a wing on Pinkie’s mouth again before moving to greet Fluttershy. “Sorry, what Pinkie meant to say was, Hi Fluttershy. What brings you here?”

"Nothing other than you were in such a rush earlier. Twilight wanted me to ask you if you would bring some snacks to the castle for Shining Armor and Cadance's visit."

“Oh, of course, Fluttershy!”

"Definitely! Got it! Pinkie Promise! Yeah! Heh." Pinkie laughed nervously as she attempted to politely leave.

"You know, maybe some baby carrots…"

Ono’s eyes twitched at the mention of the word baby as Pinkie looked on in frozen shock. “What did you say?!"

"Baby carrots! They're Shining Armor's favorite."

"Mine too! Baby carrots are kinda like big carrots but smaller, kinda like how foals are tiny versions of their parents but smaller and cuter and—" Pinkie stopped after Ono covered her mouth with his wing, again.

“Hapana!” Ono gasped. “Is that an albino squirrel I see?” He pointed his wing up in the air to get Fluttershy to look around.

"Where? Is it Albert?" But when she did she didn't find her squirrel friend…and Ono and Pinkie Pie had disappeared, probably and hopefully to go and find what they were asked to get.

While flying away, Ono could only face palm himself seeing keeping their minds of it is easier said than done. “Hapana, we’re doomed!”

The two retreated to nearby house as Ono sighed in relief. "Okay, new plan. I'll take care of the deliveries while you try and avoid everyone as much you can."

"Got it!" Pinkie Pie took out a helmet and placed it over her head, "It's time to kick this operation into hyper-hoof!"

And the two were off, Flash carried the boxes both on his back and with his front hooves while Pinkie Pie took care of the rest of the deliveries. Pinkie managed to place the boxes in the front porches of the pony's homes without so much as even making eye contact. Flash was able to hand the residence their cakes with ease, while also getting a few little foals to want his autograph. News of him being the Princess's boyfriend did make him a bit of a celebrity for some of the younger negations, while for some strange reason some of the older ponies…didn't seem to like him for some reason. Weird.

Pinkie Pie at the same time ran across town making the deliveries, while also avoiding her friends at every turn. Along the way she came up with new and creative ways to deliver the cakes without needing to talk to anypony. One example was when she used a crossbow to zip line Rarity's cake order and another when she used a toy boat to give a young foal his birthday cake. But while her plan worked smoothly, she still felt terrible at needing to avoid her friends, who kept on running into her, waving and smiling.

Once they were done with the deliveries, she met up with Ono near another house.

"Doing okay, Pinkie?" He asked.

The pony lowered her hears sadly in response. "Not so good. It didn't feel good ignoring my friends like that…"

"I know, but they’ll understand once Shining Armor and Cadance tell them the big news. I mean it’s not like a dark secret like dealing with the threat of Scar looming over our heads or something like that.” He quickly realized what he said before correcting himself with what he meant to say. “I mean…we just need to be a little more patient about all of this, then we can both give a sigh of relief knowing it’s all over."

"Yeah, you're right." Pinkie agreed before she spotted a female pony drinking inside her house from the window outside, "Maybe I can tell just one little pony the surprise?"

“Uh-uh. No.” Ono quickly shook his head while pulling Pinkie away by the tail out of the pony’s view. “Remember what Rarity said.”

Said pony’s voice rang through her head. “The pony who ruins a surprise for somepony else must live with that guilt forever!"

"You're right Ono! I can't tell anypony at all! Then they would tell Twilight, and she wouldn't be surprised, and it would be all my fault." Pinkie said with a sad sigh and covered her face with her hooves. Ono placed a wing on her back in sympathy.

"Don’t worry, everything’s going to be fine. Look…” He showed her all of the check marks on their list. “…we got the deliveries done and now we’re clear heading into the home stretch. We should be good going forward!” His eyes perked up. “Speaking of which, now that we’re done, think maybe we could make some cupcakes together. I’ve been meaning to ask the other day before the whole Rescue in the Outlands took place but never got around to it?”

“Sure thing, Ono! Let’s go!”

Back at Sugar Cube Corner, Pinkie Pie had just prepared his very favorite batch of cupcakes from the recipe of the cake that once served as a distraction to the guards during the whole Wonderbolt investigation.

"Here you are, the most fancy cake this bakery has to offer!"

"Thanks, Pinkie Pie."

The pink pony sighed once her body collapsed on the floor feeling that her work is all cut out for her for the day. "Finally, I'm all aloney on my owney."

Just then, Ono felt something on his tail feathers. He looked down and saw it was Gummy chewing on them. “Along with a hunry Gummy.” He said with a deadpan tone and look as he looked the piece of paper Gummy had in his mouth.

"Wow, great idea! I'm starving too!" Pinkie said, talking out a green apple from her hair and ate it all in just one bite, "This apple is delicious!"

“I’ll bet.” Ono removed the letter from the left side of Gummy's mouth and his eyes widen in horror. "Oh, no.”

“What is it?” Pinkie asked as her friend handing her the letter. She then gasped in horror upon reading it. “Oh, no! It's the list that Twilight helped me make yesterday so I wouldn't forget all of my Pinkie Promises today!" She fell down on the floor, "And I have three more things to do! Aw, four if you count bringing those snacks to Twilight's castle!"

“You've been getting liberal with those Pinkie Promises lately…"

“Yep.”

“Anything I can do to help make it any easier for you?”

"Nope. These I can handle no biggie.” She moved to leap out the window once before carrying them out. “Thanks again for everything today, Ono!”

“Don’t mention it…ever.” He mentioned the last part to himself.

One of the three last things for Pinkie Pie for the day to do was make balloon animals at the annual school fair at the Ponyville School House. A line of happy fillies awaited as Pinkie made adorable balloon creatures in just seconds. Next in line was Sweetie Belle.

"Ooh! I want a flamingo!" sShe walked off happily with her new balloon flamingo, which Pinkie made for her in two seconds flat.

"I want a goldfish!" Apple Bloom requested, and she got just that in two seconds on the nose. Scootaloo was next, but she didn't have a specific animal in mind.

"Surprise me!"

Pinkie Pie inflated a pink and blue balloons and began creating something for the filly. She heard crying and spotted a mother pushing her stroller nearby, with her baby crying. A baby, the very thing Cadance and Shinning Armor were going to have, and the very secret she needed to keep from her friends. She was so distracted she didn't notice what she had done with the balloons.

"Is that a... baby bottle?"

Pinkie Pie screamed once she realized what she had constructed. "No! It's a... a... puppy! Ha ha, woof woof, ha ha! Eh…"

"Are you sure? Because it looks like a—" Scootaloo was silenced once Pinkie placed the top of the balloon bottle into the filly's mouth.

"Next!"

Scootaloo decided to go along with this with no more questions asked as she did asked to be surprised. Next in line was Featherweight, the recently appointed school board president. "Uh, a baby pony, please!" He asked., "Uh, unless of course that would be a royal pain…"

Too bad, that said words baby pony and royal further stressed the pink pony out as it keeps further reminding of her the big secret she needs to keep to the point she gained up on the pony, eying him suspiciously.

"Interesting choice of words, Featherweight."

"Was it?"

"I don't know. Was it?"

"Uh, maybe you'd better just make me a giraffe."

Back in the Pride Lands, Ono scouted the skies from above to see if there is any trouble lurking around. Even though it isn’t exactly his most favorite thing on his mind, it does help him keep his mind of everything else. After all, a good patrol helps him stay alert and be ready for any sign of trouble from down below. Aside from spotting a Mhimu playing with her baby foal who has grown quite a bit since he was born, he found there was no trouble at all.

He managed to make his way back to Pride Rock, where he is greeted by the Leader of the Lion Guard himself.

“Hey, Ono! How’s everything in the Pride Lands?” He asked.

“Nothing out of ordinary. Fortunately it seems to be a slow crime day in the Pride Lands.” He reported.

“That’s good!” Another off day from daily patrol came at another perfect time. “How about Pinkie Pie? Is she okay?”

Ono’s eyes darted around before answering rather uneasy about it. “Yes. She’s fine. She’s just got a handful of Pinkie Promises she had to uphold today and she just remembered it.”

“Oh, that’s something.” Kion accepted that response seeing that as nothing out of the ordinary. “Though I don’t suppose it wasn’t because she was distracted by something else was it?”

“No.” He shook his head. “Surely that’s bound to happen to everyone once in a while, right?”

“Right, but not Pinkie Pie. Sure she can be a little out there but not like this.”

“And your point being?”

“I feel that there is something that she’s not telling us and I’m saying this is because I don’t want to see her get hurt like Twilight almost did.”

“Right, that.”

“Exactly!”

“Well…” Ono wasn’t sure of how to carefully word this before going with. "…I know for a fact that it’s not anything involving Scar if that’s what you’re worried about. So it’s not because her life is in danger.”

“That’s true. She would have told us if that were the case since Pinkie is never one to never tell us if something’s up with that.”

“So what else could it be?”

“I don’t know. Think maybe someone blackmailed her recently?”

“Maybe. But still doubtful.” He honestly replied.

“But I think it’s something worth checking up just to be sure.” Kion moved to head out to question the other ponies and Pride Landers if they’ve seen Pinkie act unusually recently. “Come on!”

“Coming.” Ono groaned to himself as that would mean seeing the baby zebra again, one of the last things he needed to see right now.

Back in Ponyville, Pinkie Pie flung the folders upwards and each one landed perfectly into the cabinets. Using her quick and swift body movements, Pinkie closed them all in an instants. Mayor Mare entered and was impressed with the pony's neat organizing skills.

"My, your friends weren't kidding when they said you had a great filing system, Pinkie! You are Ponyville's best kept secret!"

The pony flinched in response. "No, I'm not!" she walked over back to the desk and neatly piled up more papers when the mayor began speaking to her in a hushed tone.

"Speaking of secrets, have you ever known somepony else's secret?"

Pinkie Pie flinched again she dropped the papers she was holding. What secret exactly is she talking about or hasn’t already known yet?

"Noooooo…" She responded before sucking in her lips, preventing herself from peaking anymore. But the mayor’s constant pegging wasn’t helping matters at all.

"A surprise that was so big and exciting that it was all you could think about?"

The pink pony was now sweating madly with her heart racing again. At that point she had to get out of there before she spilled the beans.

"Nope!"

In an instant, she rushed herself out of the filing room, leaving Mayor Mare to sigh finding her recent behavior rather strange. "Me neither…"

Pinkie Pie's third and final favor was to help a Furniture Salespony inflate his dancing balloon pony for his new store sale. The Salespony laughed at the funny balloon creature. "That's just what I wanted. Thanks, Pinkie!"

"You're welcome!"

"Oh, by the way, can you help spread the word about the big crib sale I'm having?"

Pinkie looked at the poster he had placed and read the words out loud. ""Treat your foal like... royalty"?!" Pinkie cringed as yet again the poster made her think about her secret again.

"Pretty good slogan, huh? I came up with it all by myself!"

And that was the last straw for her as she then screamed at the top of her lungs, her movements in perfect sync with the movement of the balloon dancing pony, and ran as fast as she could out of the store leaving the sales pony looking on in confusion.

"Oh. I thought it was clever."

Elsewhere both Kion and Ono have questioned the Pride Landers if they have done anything to make Pinkie uneasy to make sure it wasn’t something else that bothered her before today.

“No, I have not.”

“I mean I may have referred to her as annoying at times but I wasn’t really malicious about it.”

Both Mtoto and Bupu were the first questioned.

“Haven’t seen her all day.”

“Neither have I.”

Both Vuraga Vuraga and Makuu replied. If she did drop by the latter’s watering hole then Makuu would be having a lengthy talk with both Kion and Twilight about personal boundaries as even now he is still not the nicest croc to get on his bad side.

At the same time Ono was simply looking on like nothing has happened, promising himself and Pinkie to keep it together up until the big reveal. “So far, so good. Just keeping flying straight and make it stick.” He said to himself as he did just that when…

“Are you kidding me?!”

Ono flinched when he heard and saw arguing up ahead, the zebras and gazelle once again.

“I told you not to tell anyone?”

“And I told you not to tell anyone?”

Their leaders argued amongst one another.

“What’s going on?” Kion asked urgently as this isn’t the first time they have disputed amongst each other.

“Oh hey Kion.” The zebra mother greeted before turning her attention back to the situation at hoof. “Nothing major just a little secret dispute.” She looked on that the two turning their backs from each other. “They accidentally let it slip out of Mhimu’s surprise birthday party to which they had planned for him to visit his favorite amusement park in Ponyville.”

“And now thanks to you, the surprise is ruined.”

“But I didn’t know it was a secret. Cut me some slack here as much as I am when you told everyone about our secret grazing grounds.”

“No.”

“Okay, okay…” Kion moved to help negotiate the matter. “…I’m sure we both regret what we said and did but I think if you both hear each other out then we can settle this matter, smoothly.”

“How?!” Both the gazelle and zebra asked irritably and in unison together.

“For starters…we can arrange that your personal grazing grounds are yours alone with no other Pride Lander allowed to have access to it and as you for and the little zebra’s surprise party I have an idea of how to make it still a surprise. Just play around with the idea so that he gets curious to the point he doesn’t know for sure what the surprise is. And if that doesn’t work change things up a bit and then call Pinkie Pie for assistance. I’m sure she’d be more than happy to help you out there. That sound good?”

“Good.” Both leaders agreed finding it to be a fair and reasonable resolve to the issue.

Ono however had his eyes locked on the 2 year old foal is neighing and shaping up for being able do things on his own. The very sight of what will become of the future foal Shining Armor and Princess Cadance are about to have.

Satisfied, Kion turns back to his friend ready to press forward. “Okay, now that that’s settled…Ono? Ono?!” Kion looked around and saw that the Keen-Sighted friend is nowhere to be found as he retreated on home as the stress and anxiety over this secret-keeping is getting too much for him to handle quality time with his friends on patrol.

The next day, The Lion and Pony Guard were all hard at work organizing the castle for the royal couple's visit. Pinkie Pie was heading towards the castle with two trays of baby carrots, along with a few more green vegetables.

"Pinkie Pie!" Ono came in landing in front of her. "Please tell me you didn't tell the secret!"

"I didn't."

"Oh, Phew." he sighed in relief, "That’s great! Because I didn’t either! So far so good!” He said as he paced and rambled around her. “Nobody suspects anything aside from a few moments here and there so surely we wouldn’t have to keep this a secret any longer. Oh, I just wish they could get here and tell them so we don’t have to keep to ourselves anymore because I don’t know how much longer I can do this!”

“Me neither!” This stress is killing me!”

“Just a few more hours and we’re golden.” Ono assured before they moved to regroup with their friends.

“Please be golden sooner!” She pleaded before following after him.

The two friends walked into the castle when Kion spotted the two and the tray of snacks Pinkie had brought, "Those look delicious, Pinkie! Let me help you!" The prince moved to levitate the trays onto the table. "But we better cover them up so they don't get spoiled." He added before covering them with two lids.

"Why would they get spoiled?" Pinkie asked feeling confused now. "We're all gonna eat them super soon!"

"Oh, didn't anyone tell you?" Kion asked to the confused duo before explaining. "Shining Armor and Cadance are held up and they may not arrive ‘til Saturday."

"Whaaaaaaaaaat?!" both Ono and Pinkie Pie shot up into the air, landing onto the branches of the tree root chandelier of the castle. The poor ponies were hyperventilating in distress upon hearing this.

"You mean…" Pinkie started as she breathed in.

“We have…" Ono also breathed in.

“To wait…"

"Another whole day?!" The two screamed and said in unison and in terror together.

"I don't know if I can!" Pinkie cried out in terror while holding onto the branch.

"Me neither!” Ono exclaimed in the same tone.

From down below, the others looked at their distraught friends. Kion and Twilight already had a hunch something was up with Flash Sentry ever since yesterday's outburst. And Pinkie Pie had been acting strangely all day long. There just had to be something going on.

"Pinkie, Ono, do you have something you need to say?" Twilight asked sympathetically. "You seem like you've been keeping something in."

"Ono, what's going on?" Kion asked equally concerned for him as he flew up to join both him and Pinkie up on the tree branch.

The two questioned members of the Guard looked at one another and then back at their friends. Pinkie yelled out before covering her mouth as Twilight joined her by her side in flight along with Fluttershy.

"It's okay." Fluttershy assured as she floated beside her. "We're here to listen." Pinkie only shook her head in response.

“Whatever is on your mind you can tell us.” Twilight said very understanding and knowing that something is troubling them deep down.

Ono still shook his head adamantly refusing to cave in while Pinkie looked like she was going to have a panic attack.

“Yeah, nobody will think of you any less.” Beshte added.

"Well, go on then, sugarcubes." Applejack encouraged the two to open up from down below.

"We're not going to judge you, darlings." Rarity further assured.

Spike gave them both his big puppy eyes to further prompt into telling them. "You'll feel so much better once you get it off your chest!"

Pinkie Pie blew on her balloon so hard that it popped as she is now really torn up inside even with Ono shaking his head against it. She still couldn’t resist the urge to give in and tell everyone as the words kept chanting in her head, over, and over again.

"Friends! Friends! Friends! Tell! Tell! Tell! Friends! Friends! Friends! Tell! Tell! Tell!"

Finally she cracked unable to keep it to herself anymore. "Okay, okay, you win!"

"Pinkie, stop!" Ono cried out to in vain as she inhaled deeply before speaking.

"Shining Armor and Cadance are gonna have a—"

"An awesome weekend with the best little sister in all of Equestria!"

Shining Armor said as the doors opened with both he and his wife standing just inside the throne room who both smiled upon seeing all of their closest friends.

"Hi, everypony." She greeted while her husband had his hoof wrapped around her.

Pinkie Pie had never been so happy to be interrupted in her entire life. She exhaled in great relief, causing her to fall from the ceiling safely like a floating parachute. Even Ono could get a breather. The Heavens had mercy on both of them today. And not a moment too soon.

Twilight and Kion landed with the former leaping up with joy upon seeing her brother and sister-in-law. "Shining Armor, Cadance! You're early! I thought something had come up and you weren't gonna make it until Saturday!"

"So did we." Cadance returned feeling equally surprised herself as she explained. "Turned out we weren't needed in Maretonia until next week. And the summit we were supposed to attend today had to be rescheduled, so... we got here even sooner than planned!"

"Surprise!" Shining Armor ruffled his little sister's mane and hugged her tightly. He then turned to see Kion standing in front of them. He raised a hoof out for him who moved to accept before being pulled into a hug alongside Twilight. "Kion, as always great to see you again."

“Great to see you too!” Kion kindly returned while surprised thinking it was a hoof shake at first. But he shrugged it off, as he reminded himself that Shining sees him as family too, as close friends, they do have the brother and sister bond together that earned them Best Man and Best Mare titles at his wedding. And there is also the fact that he saved his little sister from certain death too. So that also makes him an honorary brother and a part of the family too.

"It's wonderful to see you all again!" Cadance happily said and the rest of the Mane Six along with Fuli and Kyoga all gathered happily to greet her at the same time the boys moved to happily greet Shining Armor.

"I'm so glad you're here!" Twilight happily said to her brother. "I have a big surprise for you!"

"Oh, yeah?" Shinning Armor grinned already looking forward to it with his eyes locking on towards Pinkie Pie who is desperately curling her lips up to keep her own mouth shut. Ono took notice of this and sweated nervously, feeling that both he and Pinkie might be in hot water know that he knows.

“Hapana…”

The group walked down the hallways, the girls all giggling while catching up with one another while Beshte, Bunga, and Spike all helped with the couple's bags. Pinkie Pie and Ono walked/flied several steps away from the rest, catching up with Shinning Armor, who spoke to them in a hushed tone.

"Lucky we came when we did, huh? I'm guessing you saw the scroll we sent to Mr. and Mrs. Cake?" He asked, much to their uneasiness. "Hey, I'm impressed you've been able to keep our secret this long!"

"So you're gonna tell Twilight and Kion now?!" Pinkie hopefully asked, only to be hushed when Shining Armor covered her mouth and looked back, making sure the others didn't hear that. Thankfully, they didn’t due to be so far ahead and all caught up with chatting with one another to hear a word they said.

"You're gonna have to wait just a little bit longer. We have something special planned. It'll be worth it, I promise." He assured with a smile before walking off to catch up with the others, leaving Ono to sigh in relief and Pinkie Pie to narrow her eyes in his direction.

"It'd better be." She muttered to herself already feeling too much suspense in the situation right now.

After the royal couple got settled into the castle, The Lion and Pony Guard were walking towards the town square where they said they would meet them later on. Shining Armor said he had something planned for them, which really sparked Twilight and Kion's curiosity.

Kion himself was especially curious since Shining Armor told him that it was something that he’ll definitely love too as much his little sister.

Though Pinkie Pie was still anxious from all of this waiting and still struggling to keep herself from spilling the beans, all while Ono tries his hardest to get her to keep her cool.

“Easy…easy…” He calmly insisted. “Remember that this for both Twilight and Kion. So just try to think something other than babies.”

“I’m trying…I just can’t stop thinking about it!” She groaned with gritted teeth like she did when she needed to go to the bathroom on the train ride to Appleloosa.

"So, do you think Shining Armor liked his surprise?" Fuli asked Twilight.

"Didn't you see him? He couldn't stop raving about it!" Twilight giggled at the memory of her brother going absolutely insane with all of the wonderful toys and nostalgia items from his childhood. He tapped happily on the ant farm, then hugged Brutus Horse, marveled at the many comics, before he and his little sister spun around like he used to do to her when she was young.

"Where did Shining Armor and Cadance say they'd meet us?" Rainbow asked with her stomach rumbling. "I'm starving!"

"In the town square." Kion replied. "I wish they'd waited to walk over with us, but they said they had something to take care of first!"

"They're gonna have a lot more to take care of soon…" Pinkie muttered to Ono through her gritted teeth.

"What?"

"I said, to be fair, some things are better left unquestioned.” Ono quickly pushed Pinkie Pie away from the others before anything else could happen. The others simply shrugged while the two whistled innocently while leaning against the fountain of the square. They had arrived, but that was it. Both Shining Armor and Princess Cadance weren’t there.

"That's odd." Twilight commented while looking around wondering what’s going on. "Usually they're quite punctual."

Rainbow Dash groaned while gripping her stomach and hitting the head of the statue impatiently, "Ughhh! I need a hayburger in my belly right now!" With every tap, a scroll from inside the statue pony's mouth slipped out, landing on Fuli’s head while catching her by surprise.

“Seriously?” She remarked exasperated that it’s a reoccurring thing nowadays, but none of the less handed to Twilight who levitated it with her magic.

"What's this?" Twilight asked as she read the contents of it. She gasped with glee upon finishing reading it.

"What does it say?" Kion asked.

"A scavenger hunt! Shining Armor used to set these up for me when I was a filly!"

As if it wasn’t bad enough, now they had to do a scavenger hunt, which will only prolong the need to resist telling anyone even longer. It is clear to them that this Shining Armor's way of surprising his sister. Admittedly it was adorable, but Pinkie Pie’s patience was already running thin at this point, and Ono likewise knew it too. He kept his beak sealed shut while continuously shaking her head in the pink pony’s direction while motioning her to zip up her lips again. Too bad, Pinkie didn’t carry her zipper with her today while they both watch on as Twilight fondly recalls her old childhood memories.

"At the end, there was always a big prize, like a new book, or several new books, or—"

"We get it! You like books!" Kyoga firmly but politely interrupted. “Sorry, but don’t need to ramble on about it.”

“Fair enough.” She said accepting that.

“This should be fun!” Beshte smiled. ”What's the first clue?"

"I hope it's something about eating lunch!" Rainbow whined.

Pinkie Pie snatched the paper from Twilight and read the words quickly, "You've got a scroll, you're on a roll, why don't you take a peek where young ones spend their week? A piece of paper will continue this caper."

"Nice! It rhymes!” Bunga noted with a chuckle.

“And that's an easy one." Twilight said upon getting the clue herself.

"What do you mean?" Fluttershy asked.

"Where the young ones spend their week. It's a no brainer." Pinkie anxiously pointed out.

"She's right!" Twilight acknowledged what she is saying. "It's the Ponyville Schoolhouse!"

“That’s true. They do go to school every day.” Beshte said.

“Expect weekends of course.” Fuli added.

“Right.”

"Let's go!" Pinkie Pie shouted before zipping away, leaving the others behind in the dust. Upon seeing that they aren’t moving yet, she quickly rushed back and shoved them forward to the Schoolhouse. "Move, move, move!"

"We're here!" Pinkie stated upon arriving alongside the rest of the team at the Schoolhouse. "Now where's the next clue?" She asked before she began panting like a dog and began sniffing the ground. Kion's eyes turned to Ono since he too was also acting strange today, but he simply shrugged his shoulders to assert nothing’s wrong, even though he’s not fooled in the slightest.

Pinkie Pie dug her nose into a ground, when a leaf landed on her nose causing her to sneeze before scratching her ear with her back leg like a dog.

"Extra, extra! Get your Ponyville news! Read it in the paper!" Featherweight walked on by, carrying stacks of newspapers. Little do they now is that, he too is in on their little secret.

"What else did the note say again?" Kion asked the alicorn princess, who pondered about it again.

"A piece of paper will continue this caper." Twilight repeated before gasping upon realizing what they should be looking for. "It's in the Foal Free Press!" She galloped happily and asked Featherweight for a paper, to which he happily gave her. She opened the article and the rest gathered up behind her so they could read it alongside her so they can help find the next clue. Rarity pointed her hoof to one story in the paper.

"Ooh, look at that dress Mayor Mare is wearing in the social report! Why, it's stunning!"

“Yes I know. I helped you make that one.” Ono replied in a deadpan manner.

“I know darling.” She proudly remarked while flipping her mane and patted the egret on the head who still didn’t change his expression when it happened.

"Focus, everybody!" Pinkie Pie's head popped right through the paper, surprising everybody, before she continued searching for the clue herself.

"You know, there's really no time limit on these scavenger hunts, Pinkie." Twilight reminded while personally amused herself.

“Yeah! What’s the rush?!” Bunga asked carrying on like it is just an ordinary day in Ponyville. “It’s not like her own brother and sister-in-law are going to be called away in an instant without even saying goodbye to her.”

“It could happen.” Ono pointed out just when Pinkie called out to everyone once again.

"Aha! There!"

Pinkie tapped on the paper once she found the clue. Kion the first to take notice of it, took it, and began reading it out loud, "Though this hall is rather small, in it you'll find files of all kinds. Take a look on the back of the birth certificate of Applejack."

All eyes darted to the country pony, who was quite surprised, equally surprised by what the new clue said. "I don't like where this is goin'." She commented with worry.

Ono took the lead on this one. "That’s easy! That’s City Hall, come on!"

At his command, Pinkie Pie began pushing the others towards City Hall just like she did when they arrived at the Schoolhouse which had the others seeing that she was acting a little crazier than usual today.

They finally arrived at City Hall, where Mayor Mare was waiting for them. She waved and smiled upon their arrival, to which Pinkie Pie came to a screeching halt before zipping towards the building. The others took their time getting up but Ono was also in a rush just wanting this scavenger hunt to be solved as soon as possible so Shining Armor can reveal the big news to his little sister. He too wanted the secret to be out as much as Pinkie Pie so she doesn’t wind up exploding and ruining the surprise.

The others walked calmly inside the building, seeing the Mayor galloping in place in excitement as she too knew about the secret. Once they were in, the Mayor voiced out, "Baby! A royal ba—!" She was quickly silenced when Pinkie Pie covered her mouth.

"A-hem?"

“Oh, of course. Sorry.”

"Does anypony know where the birth certificates are kept?" Ono asked.

"Ooh! I do, I do!" Pinkie zipped back in to regroup with the others to show them the way. "Go down that hall, then you take a left, then a right, then another right, then a slight left, and it's the third door from the right!"

"Wow, Pinkie. I never knew you knew so much about town hall." Fluttershy commented feeling impressed herself.

Pinkie's eyes widened in response. "There's a lot of things I know! That you don't know I know!" She quickly sucked in her lips and Ono took the lead once more.

"No time to waste! Come on!” He said before quickly rushing Pinkie inside before anymore stalling questions could occur. Once there, Pinkie pulled out the folder with Applejack's birth certificate, which depicted her as a beautiful and adorable newborn foal.

"Awwwww!" The others couldn't help but gush over how adorable Applejack used to be when she was a foal. She was cute they wanted to scoop her up and give her a great big hug.

Applejack blushed in response to their reactions and just turned the paper over to which revealed the fourth clue allowing Twilight to read the words out loud word for word.

"This next place is where you can buy a table or chair, or some comfy beds to rest little heads"?"

Pinkie Pie immediately knew what this clue was, having just been to the furniture store yesterday where they had a sale on cribs. With Ono being aware of the secret, and already figuring out this scavenger hunt was to hint upon the baby before the big reveal, he also placed the pieces together at the same time Pinkie did. Both he and Pinkie rushed out of the room but stopped when the others were still thinking it over.

“Ugh, Hapana! Isn’t it obvious at this point?!” Ono groaned before he and Pinkie both shoved everyone out of the place and on towards the next destination.

"It's obviously the furniture store!" Pinkie exclaimed once they arrived, pointing her hoof to the entrance, "Go in, go in, go in!"

But Twilight wasn't so certain if this was the right place the clue was directing their attention to. "I don't know…"

"Daagh, fine!" Both Ono and Pinkie went in and, after hearing some rumbling and commotion from inside the store, both ponies came out with a baby crib. Pinkie Pie was inside it while Ono was pushing it outside. Both pointed to the piece of paper tapped onto the rip to prove that they were right from the start.

"Wow, you guys scary good at this." Rainbow complimented.

“I’ll say.” Bunga agreed.

Pinkie Pie read the clue quickly. "It seems we've saved the best for last. We hope that you have had a blast. Now it's time to take a break where you can get a slice of cake!"

"Sugarcube Corner!" Everyone, minus Flash and Pinkie, all said at the exact same time.

Pinkie scoffed. "That was an easy one."

Ono took this moment to sigh and collapse on the ground in relief. “No kidding.”

The group entered the bakery, to where they saw the place decorated with party decorations. The royal couple stood at the center of the room, with big smiles on par as they did on their recent wedding day.

"Surprise!" Shinning Armor ruffled his littler sister's mane, "Twily, did you like the scavenger hunt?"

"It was perfect! Just like old times, except even better because this time I got to share it with my best friends!" She happily replied, just when Pinkie Pie and Ono arrived last. “There's just one thing missing, isn't there?" She brought up as she looked around the room.

"What's that?" Her brother asked.

"Mmmm, the book prize at the end!"

Shining Armor laughed as he stood beside his wife, "There's still a prize, but it's a little different this time."

Twilight looked on confused. "Oh. I don't understand."

From behind her, Pinkie and Flash giggled quietly in excitement. "This is it." said the stallion, excited to see the look on his girlfriend's faced. It was that very face that would make this whole thing worth it.

"All the places we sent you today had something in common." Cadance said with a wink. Twilight began thinking over all the clues they had saw through today. As she pondered to herself what the surprise truly is, Ono noticed Pinkie was about to loose it again.

"First we went to the schoolhouse…" Twilight began, all the while Pinkie Pie trembled, with Ono trying with all of his might to hold her down in place so she wouldn't explode.

"And then we read the Foal Free Press..."

Pinkie's mouth opened against her will and Ono immediately covered it.

"After that we found Applejack's birth certificate... And then the last clue was under a crib."

Pinkie Pie held the two baby cake twins up to help Twilight out since it seemed she was taking a little longer than she thought in figuring the mystery out.

"Hmmm… School... foal... birth certificate... and crib…"

Pinkie Pie was boiling up with pressure while Ono was starting to struggle in restraining the big motor mouth down from revealing the truth. Just when it seemed she would crack, Twilight released a gasp of realization.

"Can it be? Are you two…?!"

"We're having a baby!" Cadance and Shining Armor happily stated while they separated from each other in order to reveal a large cake, decorated with baby bottles and a crib-toy ornament at the top.

With the secret finally out, Ono released Pinkie, who literally leaped upwards, smiling widely for the first time today. "A baby, Twilight! It's a baby! Woo-hoo!"

The happy pony bounced all around the room, cheering happily at the news, something that she already knew in advance, but just so happy to know she didn't have to hide it any longer!

The rest of the Lion and Pony Guard all could believe it themselves. The Mane Six galloped around happily cheering. Beshte and Bunga also cheered while bumping bodies together. Ono sighed in relief, taking a very long deep breath for personally succeeding in helping Pinkie keep it together long enough for the secret to be kept.

While the others were celebrating, Twilight was still jaw dropped shocked, "You mean... I'm going to be an aunt?!"

“Sure sounds like it, Aunt Twilight!” Fuli commented with a teasing smirk yet still feeling very happy for her, her brother, and her sister-in-law.

“Congratulations!” Kyoga placed a paw on her shoulder with a proud smile.

“So what do you think your prize?” Kion asked while somewhat concerned when his friend remained in shock for a whole straight minute.

Once the revelation fully processed the alicorn began feeling instant heartfelt joy. Her brother was going to be a father, and she was going to be the aunt of a beautiful little foal. And much like he said, the gift this time around was even better than any book any day to the point her wings spread out along with her big bright smile.

"This is the best prize ever!" She moved to hug her siblings, "Oh, I love you guys! And I can't wait to meet your little foal!"

"Neither can we." Shining Armor said in agreement as he moved to bring Kion into the hug too. “And I’m sure the same can be said for someone who’s going to be the foal’s uncle, Kion.”

“You mean…I’m going to be an uncle?!” Kion added equally jaw dropped shocked when the realization sunk in at that moment.

“Yep!” Cadance nodded.

“Nice!” Fuli smirked feeling equally proud for Kion too yet still in a friendly teasing manner. “Uncle Kion! If I were you I’d better get used to it.”

Kion blushed in response before refocusing his happy attention to the wonderful news that soon a new baby foal will become the new addition to the Sparkle Family before he and the others moved to congratulate both Shining Armor and Cadance on their future child.

Ono looked on feeling equally happy for his friends too just when Pinkie Pie suddenly hugged him tightly. “We did it, Ono!" she cheered before hopping around him, "We did it, we did it, we did it, we did it!"

“Yep! We did!” Ono choked out with his face turning blue again. Thankfully for him he was released when the pink pony literally fell to pieces on the floor. Ono ended up collapsing onto the floor alongside her as they both felt equally relieved that it was all finally over.

The Cakes congratulated the couple as they rolled up the party refreshments so the party itself could start. Nobody in this room could be any happier, knowing that a newborn was coming soon, and that’s something worth celebrating. Ono watched on as everyone celebrated with cake and dancing.

“So…” Kion’s voice spoke to him to which startled him once he turned to see him standing right beside him. “…that’s why you and Pinkie were actually all nutty recently?”

“What do you mean?!” Ono returned rather alarmed and frantic.

“The fact that you and Pinkie Pie knew the whole time of what the big secret was. Everything from the scavenger hunt from start to finish along with knowing that both Shining Armor and Cadance were coming over to tell her themselves.”

“Uh…yes, I knew. And I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. But they both wanted to surprise her along with you since they see you as a part of family too. And believe trying to stop Pinkie from revealing it wasn’t easy since she couldn’t keep it together thus I had to spend half of my time worrying about her.”

“And for that I don’t blame you.” Twilight said as she approached the two with three slices of cake being levitated with her magic. “A secret like that along with keeping Pinkie from spilling the beans surely is something hard to keep to yourselves.”

CRASH!

“Oops! Sorry!” Bunga called out while quickly munching up all of the jelly beans from the now broken glass jar. “Just bill me.” He said to the Cakes while sweeping the glass up with a broom and dust pan.

“Anyways…you did.” Twilight resumed commending the Guard’s Keenest of Sight. “You kept it a surprise for both me and Kion. And now we both have a future niece/nephew to look forward to. And I also have you to thank for helping Pinkie Pie to keep it together long enough so that it remains a surprise.”

“You’re welcome!” Ono saluted in return before looking on puzzled at the honey badger who simply carried on like what he learned beforehand never happened. “Though I still don’t get how Bunga managed to keep it together this whole time.”

“Bunga knew about it too?!" Kion asked in surprise at the egret who nodded his head in response. "Good question, Ono. He then turned towards his friend eating his slice of cake with jelly beans decorated on top of it. “Bunga!”

“Yeah, Kion!”

“You knew about the secret, too?!”

“Yep.”

“But how did you not nearly explode?”

“Easy.” Bunga simply shrugged. “I just act like the moment never happened.”

“What?!” Ono looked on as mouth just repeatedly opened up and closed back up like Twilight did when Pinkie revealed she knew that she and Ono were following her in an attempt to understand her Pinkie Sense.

“Aw come on, Ono! It’s a party! The truth is out! Have fun!”

Twilight levitated both him and Kion slices of cake for them to enjoy to which both shrugged deciding to let it slide and accepting the offered treats.

Just when Pinkie Pie managed to literally pull herself back together, Princess Cadance arrived and offered her a slice of cake as well.

"You did it, Pinkie Pie! You kept it a surprise! Thank you!" She hugged her very grateful that she did it. "Was it much trouble?"

"Piece of cake!" Pinkie said with a smile.

“Yeah, right!” Ono remarked while shaking her head.

“Of course it was.” Pinkie insisted. “Common knowledge, really.”

“Hey!”

Cadance, Twilight, and Kion all shared a happy laugh together finding that admittedly pretty funny as it is all part of the vitriolic best buds vibe amongst one another. So ribbing on each other was allowed every now and then, especially when it’s amongst friends of the family.

Author's Note

Here we have news that a new baby is coming in the Royal Family, thanks to both Cadance and Shining Armor's marriage. The news itself is so exciting that Pinkie Pie really wants to share it but can't because it is supposed to be a surprise for Twilight along with Kion themselves.

So of all members of the Lion Guard, it is up to Ono to help ensure she gets through the time until they know without blurting it out. Problem is the super speed talking is too eager and excitable to get the secret to herself and Ono' growing anxiousness over not informing his leaders of crucial details and watching over Pinkie's back makes it very difficult.

It took every ounce of strength. excuse, interception, and distraction to do it but in the end it was all manageable and both future aunt and uncle of the soon to be born foal to be surprised with these very wonderful news. So kudos, to them both for resisting the urge to tell.

Next up we have the return of Hearth's Warming Eve where we have not only that but the crossover of Christmas in this very special holiday episode so be on the lookout for that sometime in the middle of the month so stay tuned...

Episode 33: A Hearth's Warming and Christmas Tale

Author's Note

Before I begin I will start off by saying I did ponder whether or not whether to make this a two parter before deciding to combine it together for one big holiday special.

And second and most importantly, while I may have said something about Sunset returning to Canterlot High after this, well...I came to decide that'll happen later on rather than today. Mainly because I didn't feel like it was the right time and place with the only blessing I could do was give what's to come a gentle push in the right direction.

With that aside, there is the matter of changing up to how Christmas is introduced to the Pride Lands and Equestria by said pony as opposed to it being some random holiday that Timon and Pumbaa had just invented which I felt suits it better myself. And the collaboration of a classic Christmas song with the friendly version the Lion Guard itself gave, which goes along something like this...

Bunga and Pinkie:

For the First Way and Day of Christmas and Hearth's Warming, my good friends gave to me

A rhino and a filly in a baobab tree.

Timon and Pumbaa smile as they see both Mbeya and Scootaloo appear at the top of the tree itself.

Kion and Twilight.

For the Second Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Just then sang as two of the crocs appeared snapping their jaws as two of the fillies Pound Cake and Pumpkin Pie ride the crocs like horses much to the Cake's naturally horrified concern.

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies and a rhino and filly in a baobab tree.

Ono and Rainbow sang next as Fuli along with the other two cheetahs run by in a flash.

For the Third Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Kion and Applejack.

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Kion, Applejack, Rarity, Ono, and Bunga:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Fuli while running by alongside her friends took the time to sing just when fruit falls in their direction along with the alicorns being there to catch it with their magic.

For the Fourth Way of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Ono and Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Kion and Applejack:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Kion, Fuli, Ono, and Bunga:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Beshte and Fluttershy:

For the Fifth Way and Day of Christmas,my good friends gave to me...

Everyone sang all together as five zebras along with the Pie family all ran by.

[i"Panic and run"

"Whee!"

Seeing that had Timon and Pumbaa laughing given of how funny it is.

Fuli:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Fluttershy:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Kion:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Fuli sang as the Pride Lander lions along with the Mane Six's pets all leaped:

For the Sixth Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

"Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Fluttershy:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Ono:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Kion:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino and a filly in a baobab tree

Rarity:

For the Seventh Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me...

While Basi and his pod along with the Angel's bunny friends hopped around.

Seven hippos and bunnies hopping

Fuli:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Fluttershy:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Applejack:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone.

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Beshte:

For the Eighth Way and Day of Christmas,my good friends gave to me

Eight elephants trumpet with their trunks along with eight bucks tossed up in the air.

Eight bucks and trunks a-honking

Pinkie Pie:

Seven hippos and bunnies hopping

Twilight:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Fuli:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Ono:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Kion:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino in a baobab tree

Rainbow Dash:

For the Ninth Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

At that moment nine of Fluttershy's squirrel friends Ono dropped bugs in front of Timon and Pumbaa who both proceeded to eat them.

Nine bugs and squirrels crawling

Beshte:

Eight bucks and trunks a-honking

Bunga:

Seven hippos and bunnies hopping

Fuli:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Applejack:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Twilight:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Pinkie Pie:

For the Tenth Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Ten sodas and baboons burping

Ono:

Nine bugs and squirrels a-crawling

Beshte:

Eight bucks and trunks a-honking

Bunga:

Seven hippos hopping

Fuli:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Rainbow Dash:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Fluttershy:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Twilight:

For the Eleventh Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Eleven Pegasi ponies and egrets squawking

Bunga:

Ten sodas and baboons burping

Ono:

¶ Nine bugs and squirrels crawling

Beshte:

Eight bucks and trunks a-honking

Rainbow Dash:

Seven hippos and bunnies hopping

Fuli:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Bunga:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Fluttershy:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone:

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

Kion and Applejack:

For the Twelfth Way and Day of Christmas, my good friends gave to me

Twelve balls and berries bouncing

Fluttershy:

Eleven Pegsai ponies and egrets squawking

Rainbow Dash:

Ten sodas and baboons burping

Ono:

Nine bugs and squirrels crawling

Beshte:

"Eight bucks and trunks a-honking

Bunga:

Seven hippos and bunnies hopping

Fuli:

Six lions and pets a leaping

Everyone:

Panic and run

Whee!

Twilight:

Four falling fruits and flying alicorns

Rarity:

Three porcupines and cheetahs

Pinkie Pie:

Two snapping crocs and twin fillies

Everyone then sang as they all huddled under the tree together.

And a rhino in a baobab tree

And a rhino and filly in a baobab tree

So with a happy ending to the first collaboration of holiday traditions, now we move on to the next adventure for the Lion and Pony Guard where they deal with Kiburi and his float's return at the same time a gecko wishes to be a crocodile so be on the lookout for that episode sometime next week, so stay tuned...

Episode 33: A Hearth's Warming and Christmas Tale

Episode 33:

A Hearth's Warming and Christmas Tale

It’s that time of the year in Ponyville, where the sun is shining, ponies are cheeriful, and the powder is itching with joy spread all across town. More specifically, the nice thick blanket of snow that is falling from the sky. And at a perfect time too since it is that time of the year in Equestria. Hearth’s Warming Eve.

Every pony like every year is already into the holiday by decorating their homes and houses with decorations, wreaths, lights. In addition there is of course getting presents wrapped, food for the festivities prepared, and of course good happy company to celebrate it with. And that’s exactly what the Lion and Pony Guard are doing this year at Twilight’s castle. In addition, their respective families are all joining them as the Pride Landers have decided to partake in this holiday too.

Inside the castle, both Rafiki and Makini were already there helping out with Makini especially excited about celebrating a new holiday.

“I can tell you are really looking forward to this celeberation are you, Makini?” Her mentor asked.

“Are you kidding?! Of course I am!” She could barely contain her excitement as she spread the flowers all across the library while unknowingly flinging them onto Twilight and Spike who both happened to be in the same room as them. “Oops! Sorry!”

“It’s all right.” Twilight giggled.

“Hakuna Matata!” Spike shrugged.

Given that they have been well acquainted with Pinkie Pie’s antics they are very well used to this by now as they both carried out with what they were doing in here like nothing had happened.

Upon seeing the book Twilight had resumed reading had sparked the young mandrill’s intrigued interest. “What’d you reading?” She asked while peering over her shoulder. She then gasped in delight when she read some of the words on one the pages she is currently reading. “Is that what I think it is?!”

“It is. The written and recorded history of the Pride Lands very own Kupatana Celebration. Right down to the blooming baobab flowers.”

“Wow!” She looked on at the words and pictures written and drawn on the book which came to life to show flashbacks of said events that happened that day courtesy of the alicorn’s magic.

“Oh! It's so pretty, Rafiki!” She remarked with her eyes sparkling as bright as magic while Rafiki chuckled at her enthusiasm.

“Yes, Makini. And as Royal Mjuzi, you will need to know all of Equestria’s celebrations as much as the Pride Lands' celebrations.“

“Oh, good! 'Cause I want to learn all the Equestrian celebrations as much as the Pride Lands celebrations! What's this one, Twilight?” She asked eyeing another open book she had open on the table. Is that you girls?” Said image she is talking about had an image of the girls all huddled together for a group photo alongside the yellow and red maned unicorn.

“Well yes and no…” She answered as she pulled up the journal with her magic. “...that is a picture of me but those girls are from the other world in Canterlot High.”

“Ooh, right! The place where your crown went to along where you fought against ancient evil in that rock band battle!”

“Yep. That’s the one.”

“What about this one?” She asked pointing towards a picture of one with the girls decorating a tree with Sunset putting a star on top. “Do they celebrate Hearth’s Warming too?”

“In a way yes. But technically it’s a bit different that.”

“How so?”

“Because instead of it being Hearth’s Warming, it’s called Christmas…” Sunset’s voice spoke to her as she entered the room. “...and it doesn’t exactly share the same traditions that Hearth’s Warming has.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“Hey, Sunset.” Twilight greeted. “Need something?”

“No just looking around before getting something to eat.”

“You sure you don’t want to join in on the celebration? Everybody’s going to be here!”

“No thanks.” She politely smiled in return. “I’m not really a holiday pony myself.”

“Why not?”

“Makini.” Rafiki spoke up sternly while shaking her head at her constant pressing of their friend. “If she doesn’t want to partake in the celebration we must respect her decision.”

“Rafiki’s right, Makini.” Twilight agreed. “Not everyone has a great experience with the holidays like us and should be obliged to celebrate it if they don’t want to. I mean you remember why Fluttershy doesn’t celebrate Nightmare Night alongside us, right?”

“Yes. The whole traumatizing experience back when she got the scare of her life.” She then turned to Sunset apologetically. “I’m sorry Sunset, I didn't realize.”

“It’s okay. You didn’t know.”

“What happened?”

“Long story short, my former friends accused me of being the anonymous gossiper who exposed everyone’s deepest, darkest, secrets.”

“Like Gabby Gums?”

“Yes. Like Gabby Gums.”

“Ooh…That’s just so unfair.”

“It is. Especially when even after all we had been through together they were quick to accuse me right off the bat.”

“I’m so sorry.” She hugged the disheartened and downcast pony before speaking to get the mood up-swinging once more. “But enough that. You think maybe you can tell me what’s Christmas?” She asked hopefully.

“I think I can.” She smiled warmly much to the mandrill’s barely contained excitement as she hugged him.

Just then they heard rustling coming from the chimney with charcoal appearing as a certain friend of theirs made her entrance.

“Happy Hearth’s Warming Eve!” Pinkie greeted as she ended up landing on her head all while covered in sooth.

Her friends giggled at her entrance as it’s rather cute and rather Pinkie-like just when Applejack arrived and from the look on her face, she was mighty impressed with how well things are coming along.

“Shucks, Twilight! Y'all done it up nice and cozy in here.”

“Well I did have some help…” Both Makini and Rafiki smiled in return for the acknowledgment. “…but yeah, everything’s almost ready for tonight and pretty soon many of our families will be over here so we can all celebrate it together.”

“Yeah!” Spike happily chimed in. “And the best part about it all is being able to open presents at midnight tonight!”

“By that you mean the best for you?” Twilight replied while sternly eyeing him like a mother catching him trying to sneak a peek at the presents which he is literally doing just that. “And those presents are to go under the tree, not unwrapped.”

“Yes, mom.” He begrudgingly replied before moving to carry out that task. During which he tried to pull a ribbon on one present when he was sure he was out of her sight…

“You know I can sense what you’re doing behind my back!” The alicorn voiced out, making the little dragon leave the ribbon exactly like he it was before he pulled it before rushing off to put them under the tree like he was told.

With that moment aside, Applejack turned her attention to Sunset who looks on like nothing had happened. “Howdy Sunset! Happy Hearth’s Warming…Eve.” She looked on concerned when she didn’t immediately reply. “You okay, partner?”

“Yeah, Applejack.” She quickly replied which didn’t convince the most honest pony that everything is fine with her.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes and no. And sorry. I’m just not exactly the holiday pony myself today.”

“Because of what happened in the other world?”

“Yes.”

“I hear you loud and clear.” Pinkie chimed in. “You know this reminds of a time when Gabby Gums did something like this and she or more accurately she and her friends were deemed outcasts amongst the crowd and had to create an apology story to make things right. And more I think about it sure is crazy of how similar both worlds are right down to our human counterparts.”

“Yes Pinkie. It is.” Sunset glared at her. “Expect that the one who didn’t do it was the one who was punished by your human counterpart’s!”

Pinkie giggled nervously as she realized her insensitive mistake. “Wow! That’s even worse. Oopsie.”

“Maybe we should just focus on getting everything ready for when our families arrive.” Applejack suggested with a firm hoof on the pink pony’s shoulder to keep her from getting a rise out of the fiery unicorn.

“Good idea.” She voiced with calmly voiced anger that had even the earth pony herself gulping nervously.

“Sunset…” Twilight spoke up in an effort to ease her rising temper. “...why don’t you go help make sure the tree is all set up. Help Bunga, Rarity, Timon, and Pumbaa out and getting all of the ornaments put up.”

“Okay.” She said with her anger diminishing for the time being before leaving the room.

After Sunset had left, Twilight turned to her friend with a look of disappointment. “We’ll talk about this later, but in the meantime…” She then shifted to an upbeat attitude to match the holiday’s mood. “...check out the holiday dolls we made.”

Everyone all gazed in admiration at the exact replica dolls of themselves placed over the fireplace.

“Cool!”

“Fascinating!”

Both Makini and Pinkie happily expressed upon seeing her completed work.

“I can’t wait until our families get here to see this! Including mine!” Pinkie then happily added.

Hearing that sparked surprise among the others, especially Kion and Ono who arrived alongside the rest of the Lion Guard who had yet to show up.

“Huh?”

“What?”

“Your whole family?” Applejack asked in surprise.

“Yep. Which means both Apples and Pies will be getting together for the very first time! Isn’t that exciting?!”

“I suppose so.” While Applejack voiced her support she wasn’t sure of what the Pies are going to be like. As far as what she was told by Pinkie herself she stands out as the emotionally expressive and colorful compared to a family of gray coated ponies with emotionally distant personalities.

“Just wait, Applejack! By the end of the day, we’ll all be one happy family having a great time together. Maybe. Unless we're related! Which maybe we're not. I think I just confused myself."

Twilight smiled finding it to be a very sweet idea. “I think it's sweet that your families are spending the holiday together."

“It sure is.” Beshte agreed. “I’m already looking forward to this party already.”

“Me too.” Fuli chimed feeling upbeat about the whole celebration herself. “It’s not every day I get spend time with my friends and family.”

“And judging from the guest list, we sure have a lot of friends to the family, Fuli.” Ono shared. “Aside from Applejack and Pinkie Pie’s families and us obviously, we have your childhood friends, Kion’s family, Beshte’s family, Kyoga’s family, Twilight’s brother and sister-in-law, Bunga’s adoptive uncles, and of course the many friends to the Lion King himself.”

“That sure is a lot of friends to the family.” Fuli remarked highly impressed with how huge the guest list really is.

“It sure is.” Twilight replied.

“Do you think everyone will love the holiday celebrations tonight, Twilight?” Makini asked.

“In your case Makini it is something to die for...of excitement.” She quickly added to assure everyone she meant that as a figure of speech not literally. “For everyone else it is definitely a celebration nobody will ever forget.”

Little do anyone know is that things sure will play out as something they’ll never forget...just not quite the way anybody would expect. Especially when old traditions try to come together with new traditions.

In the other room, Bunga, Rarity, Timon, and Pumbaa are all setting up the tree by decorating it with Equestrian ornaments along with fruit from the Pride Lands just when Spike and Sunset showed up to see their progress and be ready to assist when needed. During which Timon took the time to sing to help move things along.

“Jungle smells, jungle smells, jungle all the way. Oh, what fun it is to... “

“Uh, Timon?” Pumbaa interrupted while passing a gourd up to his best buddy. “That's not the way I remember the song.”

Timon insisted it was. “Come on, Pumbaa. How can you not remember? We sing it every Christmas.”

“Every Christmas.” Sunset eyed Timon rather annoyed that to him now this is all old news to him. “I just told you both of what the holiday was about two minutes ago.”

“Boy has time passed so fast.” Sunset could only shake her head in response before moving to place some more candy canes onto the tree. “Huh?” She suddenly noticed the box she was holding is empty. “Where they’d go?”

“No idea.” Bunga replied with his mouth full while casually placing fruit decorations onto the tree. “There!” He said with proud satisfaction. “Timon? Pumbaa? Whaddaya think, eh?”

“Let’s see.” Rarity said as she moved to take a look at her friend’s work in progress. “Oh my!”

“Wow!”

”Oh, it's beautiful!”

Hearing this left Bunga pleased to see and hear the stamps of approval he was being given. “Thanks! If you ask me it’s perfect!”

“Almost perfect.” Rarity reminded while gesturing her head up towards the very top of the tree.

Timon also knew exactly what she is talking about upon looking up where her eyes are sighted on. “She’s right. We still need the star fruit for the top of the tree. The “piece de resistance!””

“One star fruit, coming up.” Sunset volunteered as she got the requested item before moving to levitate up towards the honey badger so he can place it on the very top.

“Actually, Sunset…” Rarity spoke up having a better idea on her mind. “...why don’t you place it top? Considering this is your first Hearth’s Warming celebration with us.”

“Really?” Sunset looked on surprised before agreeing for the sake of it. “Okay.” Without effort she used her magic to levitate it up towards the very top in a careful and delicate manner.

The four friends all cheered happily for her as with the star on top the holiday tree is all set and decorated to perfection. Said cheer wound up attracting the Lion and Pony Guard’s attention who would normally see that kind of voice raising any day as a cry for help.

“We heard you shouting. Good thing we were close by.” Kion commented in worry.

“Relax, Kion.” Twilight quickly assured after seeing what was really going on. “They’ve just finished decorating the tree.” She then spots something else that caught her eye before levitating a gift wrapped box Spike had in his claws back under the tree. “Along with an overly-eager dragon trying to sneak a peek at the presents ahead of time.” Spike could only cross his arms and pout in defeat, but even still he knows better than to argue as it is not polite to open presents early.

“Oh.” Kion said feeling quite surprised as he used to hearing someone call for help like that. “Right.”

“What do you think?” Rartiy asked eager for their awe inspired reactions and much to her satisfaction many of the reactions were exactly that.

“Wow!”

“Poa!”

“Nice work!”

Rainbow, Beshte, and Kyoga all complimented.

Fuli the only one who didn’t join in on commending her instead looked on in confusion at some of selected decorations and ornaments on the tree. “Fuli?” The curious and concerned unicorn asked.

“Yeah.” She spoke up to assure she isn’t staring off into space.

“Everything okay with what’s up there?”

“Yes.”

“Expect?”

“Nothing bad but why are there gourds hanging all over it?”

“Because it's both a Hearth’s Warming and Christmas tree.” Bunga explained as he pointed to the special ornament on top. “See that big star up there? That means tomorrow is Christmas.”

“You mean Hearth’s Warming Eve?”

“Yeah that too!”

“Huh?”

“What?”

Both leaders of the Guard expressed confusion with that statement Bunga had just said.

“Uh, what's Christmas?” Beshte asked much to both Timon and Pumbaa’s overly baffled shock.

"What's Christmas"?

“It's this great holiday Sunset told us earlier.” Bunga explained.

“Which involves flying reindeer I might add.” Pumbaa chimed in.

“Flying reindeer?” Ono couldn’t help but that the idea that reindeer can fly to be the most absurd thing he has ever heard of. “Reindeer don't... “

Timon quickly grabbed the egret’s beak shut to get him to stop talking. “The point is, Christmas is a wonderful day when we all get presents!”

“It's more like a time to be with your friends and family.” Pumbaa corrected. “It's all about the spirit of giving!”

Timon however disagreed. “You mean "getting."”

“I'm pretty sure it's "giving."”

“Actually, you can't have getting without giving. Or giving without getting.” Sunset pointed out while looking annoyed as heck by the two for their arguing.

“And much like Hearth’s Warming, the holiday itself ain’t about candy and presents.” Applejack added.

Timon moaned in response. “Oh boy, here comes the wise and humble words of Honest John himself.”

“Yep. Wise and humble words that are much needed and very important to hear, because if it weren’t for the power of this here friendship, we might be standing in Equestria right now. But instead a frozen tundra colder than where the Theluji Mountains.”

“Right where those two banana brains used me as a snot rag.”

“Wait, what?”

“When?”

Both Kion and Twilight asked.

“Back when everyone’s backs were turned and focused on the wedding and those two hair-brained brothers picked me up and blew into me while he was blubbering about something I don’t even understand!”

“Oh, right, that.”

“Now I know why.”

“The unfortunate accident.” Fluttershy also recalled. “But I did clean you up just after they got married and they did apologize to you once I talked to them about it.”

“Whatever.” Timon remarked with crossed arms still upset over that feeling like he was being treated like dung beetles tossed face first into the mud.”

“Anyways…” Bunga said wanting to keep the festive spirit up. “...you know what the best part of Christmas is?” He then asked the curious group as he put one paw in the air. “Dandy Claws!”

“Dandy Claws?” Fuli looked on as this is new to her. “Is that a who or a what?”

“And more accurately a he or a she?”

“For starters, Dandy Claws or more accurately is Santa Claus, and Santa Claus himself is a he.” Sunset answered before Timon and Pumbaa could answer that. From the look on her face one could face she is not in the mood to hear such silliness right now. “During the night heading into Christmas Day, he comes around to people’s houses every night and leaves presents under the tree for everyone to wake up that very morning. He is big, wears a red coat, hat, and suit, and has a big white beard.”

“Right, exactly.”

Sunset wasn’t impressed. “Please. If I hadn’t spoken up you would have said he is a big red guy with fluffy red whiskers.” Before he could speak up again. “And don’t tell me otherwise considering I just told you yesterday all about him and the holiday itself.”

“Point being.” Bunga then continued like nothing happened. “Christmas is the best!”

He briefly looking out the window to see the white blanket of snow covering the entire town from inside, barely managing to catch a glimpse of the sun trying to peak through the dark gray clouds while singing. He briefly hugged his adoptive uncles while holding up holding up holly and ivory together to create a mistletoe.

“We're not sure why.“

“It’s just what you do.”

Both Timon and Pumbaa shared equally confused looks until Sunset demonstrated it's importance by kissing Twilight on the cheek much to her embarrassment as the latter looked aside with her cheeks turning red while the other ponies giggled at her expense.

Bunga continuing singing before moving to intervene when both Timon and Pumbaa started arguing once more. Before placing decorations on some of his friends while dancing along the way. He then climbed up the tree to look at the fruit star to which Rarity levitated a sparkling diamond gem to place in the center of it so it can create a rainbow reflective glow that sparkles across the room around them. As the spotlight shined on Pumbaa then Timon, they each traded verses before they moved to sing all together as they marched and danced around the tree.

After the song came to an end, Fuli had another question about this Christmas holiday they’re talking about, looking very intrigued by the Christmas holiday itself as much as Hearth’s Warming. “So this Santa Claus or who you guys like to call Dandy Claws brings you gifts every year?”

“Yes and no.” Sunset replied. “I mean yes he does show up but only if you have been very good. Otherwise he’ll leave you nothing but coal in your stocking.”

“Are you saying that Dandy Claws never will come?” Timon fearfully asked while on the verge of tears.

“No, I never said that. I said if you are good he might come.” She repeated with emphasis on if and might. “One way he might come is if you perform the special song he is looking for.”

“Oh yeah! Of course!”

“We get it now!”

“Good.” Her calm smile only lasted briefly when the question itself is someone dared to wonder what the answer is.

“What’s this here special song that ensures that this here Santa Claus?” Applejack curiously asked.

“Well, from what we've heard, Dandy Claws only comes if you perform a special song under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning.” Pumbaa began.

“It's called The Twelve Ways of Christmas.” Bunga continued to explain next. “It's got leaping lions, bouncing berries, falling fruit, all sorts of stuff.”

“Yeah, but you can't just sing about 'em! They gotta be there! It's a huge production! Animals, fruit, bugs.” Pumbaa added.

“It's too much. I've tried…” Timon complained much to Sunset’s growing annoyance. Kion briefly looked at Timon before turning to Sunset who can only shrug in response as the Meerkat plants his face into the ground. “...but I've never been able to do it. It's impossible! And that's why Dandy Claws will never come and bring me gifts!”

“This is just so sad.” Sunset bitterly muttered her breath.

“Oh, cheer up, Timon.” Pumbaa assured his distraught friend. “Bunga and I gave you gifts for this Christmas.”

“Yeah! Even the sneaky dragon eyeing the presents gets one.” Bunga agreed pointing to said dragon still snooping around said presents.

Spike glared at him for being a snitch in the matter before coming forward to Twilight. “Can we please open the presents now? Please?!” He pleaded of her.

Applejack arched an eyebrow in response. "But tonight is Hearth's Warming Eve. Everybody knows you don't open presents 'till tomorrow. And if that’s the case for Christmas wouldn’t that apply as well if tonight is Christmas Eve."

"When Spike and I spent our first Hearth's Warming Eve together, he couldn't wait all night to open his presents! Ever since then, we've always opened them the night before!" Twilight explained.

"It's kinda like our tradition!"

Applejack chuckled, "That's not how our family does it, and I reckon it can't be how Pinkie's does it." her eyes darted to the pink pony, "Is it?"

"No sire!" Pinkie replied happily.

“Well I’m sure you’ll be happy to know that we will open presents at midnight tonight so you won’t have to wait long for that to happen.” Twilight said to further assure both Timon and Spike.

“Yeah! “ Bunga happily stated.

Applejack still didn't agree but really wasn’t going to argue about it considering it is time of old and new traditions to blend together as one. "To each their own, I suppose."

Timon also came to concede that’ll suffice for him too. “I know, and they're always great. But just once, I'd like Dandy Claws to bring me something, too.”

“Well, who knows? Maybe someday he will.” Pumbaa commented which did little in cheering his friend up.

“Maybe.”

“Maybe. Maybe not.” Sunset commented in a neutral tone and stance on the way. “Now that the tree is all set up with our presents all wrapped and under there, I am going to sit in my room while catching up on my studies so that when I return to Canterlot High, I’ll be caught up with my work so I can move on with what I want to be while growing up. One that doesn’t involve friendship. Now, good day.”

With that curt reply, she took her leave, leaving her friends stunned and shocked. Clearly she is not a holiday pony.

“Geez, what’s her problem?” Timon asked. “Did she get a lot of coal in her stocking last Christmas?”

Twilight shook her head. “No. Her friends back in Canterlot High accused her of being the anonymous source of embarrassing secrets. Quick to break off their friendship without even hearing her out and fully understanding what was going on.”

“Who?” Pumbaa asked.

“Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.”

“Like Gabby Gums all over there.” Rarity added with solemn pity for the disheartened pony making her way upstairs towards the library. “Her holiday spirit having just been crushed before it could even grow.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed before heading out. “Since it is almost time for the party, I’m going to gather my family so we can all head on back for the party together.”

“Me too.”

“Me three.”

“Same here. My dad is waiting with his friends.”

“So are Sally and Sassy.”

“Along with my sisters.”

“You better get on over to the train station.” Applejack stated towards Pinkie just when they heard a train whistle from the station blowing it’s horn. “Your family has arrived.”

“Yes!” Pinkie cheered before rushing on over there with gleeful excitement while Fuli was quick to rush out after her while Applejack, Kion, Kyoga, and Beshte all took their time walking outside so they can meet up with the rest of their family.

With them gone that just left half of the Guard at the castle and the preparations to deal with. One of them being the cooking for dinner tonight.

“In the meantime, I’m going to get started on cooking dinner. Spike, Rarity, Bunga, want to help?”

“Sure.”

“Absolutely.”

“Can do!”

While the others are getting themselves prepped up for the gathering tonight, Bunga couldn’t help but sigh while cutting up the vegetables.

“You okay, buddy?” Spike who was reading the cookbook asked upon noticing that he is not completely upbeat about tonight.

“Yeah, I just wish I could make Dandy Claws or Santa Claus appear and have Uncle Timon's Christmas dream come true.”

“I completely understand.” Twilight sympathetically replied while checking up on the food that is cooking in the oven. “At the same time I could wish the same to help cheer up Sunset. I mean you saw how cranky she was earlier.”

“Quite cranky to the point I thought she was going to explode.” Rarity who was working her magic with a mixing bowl chimed in. But if she doesn’t want to celebrate Hearth’s Warming or Christmas who are we to insist that on her?”

“No one.” Bunga honestly answered. “I mean it’s not like we can combine both holidays and get Sunset to help introduce Christmas as a way to help restore her holiday spirit.” Bunga’s smile grew wide when he processed what he just said. “Or maybe we can.”

“Bunga?”

“We can?”

Both Spike and Rarity commented in confusion.

“Of course. All we have to do is perform that song. The Twelve Ways of Christmas. And as for Sunset as she sees everyone having a good time together, she’ll forget being all grumpy and mad about the holidays. It’s perfect.”

“But didn’t you hear Timon?” Spike reminded to assert they are literally playing with fire here. “He said it's impossible.”

“And Sunset made it perfectly clear that she doesn’t want to be disturbed. Ever. By forcing her to participate we’re no better than the friends who outright accused of her being in the wrong and abandoning her in a time of need. As if breaking a mare’s heart once before wasn’t bad enough.”

“True.” Bunga acknowledged that statement. “But who says she has to participate in the holiday celebrations? All she has to do is guide us through how certain Christmas celebrations work out. There she’ll remind herself of how friendship changed her for the better and then she’ll want to join in on the fun.”

“But there is the fact of girls who were responsible for breaking her heart in the other world. Just seeing the others…” She took a moment to add in Rarity's direction. “...no offense.”

“None taken, darling.”

“...faces will only serve to constantly remind her of why she ran away and came here in the first place.”

“Well at least it’s better than doing nothing.” Bunga turned his head up towards the ceiling where Sunset is currently reading and sitting in her room rather depressed and miserable. “I mean it doesn’t hurt to at least try.”

It took a second for Twilight to think about this. Fulfilling Christmas wishes, combining old and new traditions together, and cheering up someone who doesn’t want to be cheered up. It’s risky, but at the same time it can be done if done right. And they’re the Lion and Pony Guard who manages to make the impossible possible almost every day. So why not?

“Well if Kion were here, he would agree to try to make it happen. And we do the impossible all the time as the Lion and Pony Guard.”

Bunga liked what he is hearing. “Ooh, yeah, we do, don't we?”

“But the celebration is tonight and Christmas is tomorrow. That means we have to get everything ready by tonight!” Rarity frantically said before freaking out when she heard the timer go off.

“Do you smell something burning?” Bunga asked while sniffing the air around them.

“Gah! My spinach puffs!” She quickly rushed over to the oven and thankfully managed to save them in time.

“Good! Well?”

Twilight smiled as she gave him her answer. “All right, Bunga. We’ll give it a try.”

“I suppose we could.” Rarity also agreed.

“And if Pinkie were here, she’d do it too if that means making everyone happy.” Spike added in agreement.

“Yes Thanks, everybody.”

“Okay. Bunga, what do we need for The Twelve Ways of Christmas?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, so much! Bugs a-crawling, fruit a-falling, lions leaping, trunks a-honking…”

Spike quickly spoke up to interrupt him as he was explaining it too fast to the point he can’t write it all down. “Whoa, whoa, whoa! One at a time please! I can’t write that all that fast!”

“Maybe you should start from the beginning.” Twilight suggested.

“Okay, so the song goes like this...”

“For the First Way of Christmas, my good friends gave to me.… A rhino in a baobab tree!”

“The other version Sunset told me goes like this…”

“On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...A partridge in a pear tree.”

“...And that's it. What do you think?”

“Pretty good.”

“Not bad.”

Both Twilight and Rarity complimented.

“Though I do wonder where you got the rhino in the tree part?” Spike asked rather confused.

“I just made that part up.” Bunga admitted. “Because I thought to myself even that’s not the way the song is supposed to go, it sounded a bit better to fit with a more friendly setting instead of, you know, in love setting.”

“Fair point.” He turned to the other ponies. “Any thoughts?”

“We’ll talk it out with them and see what they think, but we’re willing to try out whatever works for everyone.” Twilight replied.

“It’s not exactly traditional to do an alternative version of a well-known song, but if that’s what makes everyone happy, I guess I can’t say no.” Rarity added being willing to try it out too.

“Yes!” Bunga cheered seeing that they are on board with this. “This is gonna be the most un-Bunga-lievable Christmas ever!” Then he quickly reminded himself to say this. “Ooh, but don't let Timon and Pumbaa see you! I really want it to be a surprise!

“Of course.”

“Sure thing, darling.”

Meanwhile, both Applejack and Pinkie Pie have decided to meet up with both families at the Ponyville train station with the former’s family having already met up with them. It hasn’t even been ten minutes in, and Pinkie is still running her mouth on and on a bout her ongoing excitement over this upcoming gathering.

Applejack herself while not hyperactive in her excitement is still equally thrilled for what she thinks will be a great Hearth’s Warming experience. “It's so excitin'! Related or not, it's gonna be a hoot havin' our families together under one roof!”

“I know! I can’t wait!”

“Me too!” Apple Bloom also eagerly excited as Pinkie stated. “Is that why we celebrate with a flag raisin' tomorrow?”

Her big brother nodded. “Mm-hmm! And tonight, we'll have the traditional Hearth's Warmin' Eve dinner to remember the shared bounties of our ancestors.”

“We do that too!” Pinkie chimed in.

“Then we'll hang our Hearth's Warmin' dolls over the fireplace to remind us of the warmth shared on that fateful night.”

“That's what our family does too!”

“And tomorrow, we open presents!”

“Ah! We do that too!”

"Sounds like the Apples and the Pies do everything the same way!” Apple Bloom commented while pleasantly surprised at the very many similarities their families seemingly have together.

“Of course!” Both ponies spoke at the exact same time. “We might be related! Hey, I was gonna say that!” They both ended up mirroring each other with each movement, hoof to hoof, eye to eye. “Stop sayin' what I'm sayin'! You stop it first!” They both laughed together while falling on their backs after finding that admittedly funny.

“So I take you’re both off to a good start in bonding with one another.”

Both Applejack and Pinkie turned their heads towards where the voice came from and both wasted no time in happily greeting her with holiday spirit.

“Oh, hey Kyoga!”

“Howdy there partner!”

“Hello to you both.” She kindly greeted in return. “So I take it the Pie Family has yet to arrive?”

“Yep.” Big Mac casually replied. “But they should be here soon.”

“That’s good.”

“I'm so happy, I need to make up a new word for how happy I am.” Pinkie happily said. “What about... "rooftastic"?”

Both Applejack and Kyoga were of course confused.

“”Rooftastic"?”

“What’s that mean?”

“It means, as in, I'm gonna stand on the roof and yell to everypony how rooftastic this is! She proceeded to demonstrate it by standing up the train station roof while shouting loudly. "How rooftastic this is…How rooftastic this is…How rooftastic this is…"

The echoing was so loud it reached all the way out to Outlands in the other world and the Backlands outside of Equestria where the Outsiders were working on training exercises at both places. Scar having super-hearing abilities shrugged it off this time deciding that for once whatever she is screaming about is not worth his time before focusing on his follower’s progress.

“Very.” After shielding everyone from the snow from the rooftop causing by her shouting, Kyoga noticed Applejack looking somewhat nervously while looking aside. “Everything okay, Applejack?”

“Yeah…”

“Expect?…”

“Expect...What if our families don't like each other?"

“I’d say otherwise because you’re standing in front a friend who knows and reads Maud like a book. Like Twilight would if she were here. Sure it make take some compromising and understanding each other’s traditions and lifestyles but it’ll all work out. It always does.”

“She’s right, Applejack.” Pinkie agreed while lowering down from the roof to stand by her friend’s side. "We are friends, Applejack, and after tonight, our families are gonna be friends too. Do you know what that means?" Pinkie started counting her hooves. "Number of Apples times number of Pies is twenty four, minus my three existing friendships plus one for Maud and you makes five from twenty four is…" She inhaled a deep breath before finishing her sentence. "nineteen new friendships!" She stated with nineteen hooves appearing all around them, much to her friends shocked reactions.

No matter what Pinkie always managed to catch them off guard.

Just then a train whistle is heard from nearby as the train everyone was expecting had finally pulled up to the station. And when the doors opened, the first pony to come out was a pony that Pinkie has been expecting to see since she got here.

"Maud!" She happily greeted before rushing over to hug her sister, who looked on without emotion which is of course expected at this point.

"I'm so excited to see you, Pinkie Pie." Maud returned stoically and in her usual deadpan voice. "You too, Applejack, Kyoga, I hope you both had fun sledding yesterday."

Both Applejack and Kyoga looked in on surprise. "How'd you know that?" She asked in surprise.

"Isn't it obvious?" Maud raised one of her hoofs, spotting very small little pieces of rocks, "There are specks of extrusive andesite on your hands. It's a mountain rock." She then sniffs Kyoga’s fur and sniffed out something oddly interested. “Not to mention it would seem you have been out near a volcano recently. The smokey scent, the specks of charcoal, and volcanic ash.”

She managed to pull out hidden specks that were in her fur ever since the whole encounter with Scar recently. Apparently, the strong scent her friends gave her is still present.

“Impressive.” Kyoga replied with a look of respect.

“She’s good.” Granny Smith whispered to the other Apples who nodded in agreement.

“How's school going?” Pinkie eagerly asked.

“If you thought quartz was high on the Mozarts hardness scale, wait 'til I tell you about orundum.” Maud stoically replied.

Pinkie happily hugged her sister. “I missed you so much! Both Princess Twilight and Prince Kion are both very honored that you and the rest of the family could join us for Hearth’s Warming this year and they are both already looking forward to seeing you again.”

“Well I wouldn’t want to keep them waiting anymore. Shall we?”

“Let’s.”

She led the way on over to the castle while the rest of her family emerged from the train one by one and judging by their reactions, it’s definitely out of the ordinary, starting with two more ponies emerging from the train, Pinkie Pie’s parents.

The first pony is a male stallion wearing a gray fedora hat with a white button up shirt and a black tie. He had a brown coat, amber eyes, and a short gray mane and tail, and a pickax for a cutie mark on his flank.

The mare walking next to him had a light bluish gray coat with a matching mane and tail with the top pulled neatly back into a bun, and had light sky blue eyes. She had gold pentacles connected by a golden chain along with a golden necklace, a black dress, and had three light blue diamonds as her cutie mark.

Following after them were two more female ponies, her sisters. The taller one has a bluish gray coat with a gray mane and tail, the left side was styled into a bob cut while the right side was short, spiky and sticking out on ends. Her eyes were light apple green and her cutie mark on her flank depicted a limb with two white stones. Unlike Maud, her expression was bitter, angry, and annoyed.

The second was more timid and slightly shorter compared to her sister. Her eyes were light and a faint violet color, her mane, tail, and coat are all grey. Her hair was styled to the left side, with a large part covering her left eye.

As they walked on ahead, Pinkie ran up to the Apples in an encouraging manner.

“Come on, everybody! Meet my super-mega-wonderful family!"

The Apples all did exactly that as they walked on over back to the castle but given their bewildered expressions when they got there, really found that this is not quite the family they are used to getting acquainted with.

None of the less, Pinkie kept up her positive and cheerful attitude as she led and hopped her way on over, up until she knocked on the doors so Twilight and Kion can move to greet them along with the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard and the important party guests.

From first glance, it was certainly something to take in, but nothing too surprising given their earlier interactions with Maud and they were all very ready to greet them with the same enthusiasm like they did with Maud.

During the walk over the taller sister constantly scowled the whole way while not even allowing Pinkie to hug her and had to gently push and drag her other sister along the way because of her overly timidness.

"Everybody, meet everybody!"

Pinkie's parents approached Kion and Twilight and bowed before them in respect. The father spoke first and removed his hat in a gentleman fashion, "Surely thy name is not but Princess Twilight nor Prince Kion. I am called Igneous Rock Pie, son of Thelmspar Granite Pie."

"Thou shalt know me as Cloudy Quartz." His wife added.

"May Providence favor thee well, and to thou comfort, your humble homestead bring."

Neither the prince nor princess were expecting this kind of greeting, but they still none of the less returned the greeting of their own in kind. After all, friends of the family is their family too.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” Twilight politely greeted with a bow. “We’ve been looking forward to meeting you ever since we heard you would joining us tonight.”

“And we’re very glad that you could make it, it is truly an honor.” Kion also greeted as he too bowed alongside Twilight. “The more the merrier.”

Cloudy Quartz bowed her head as she offered the prince and princess the pot she was carrying. "Please accept this most gracious gift as a token of our appreciation for tonight’s dinner."

“We sure will.”

“Thank you.”

Twilight kindly took the pot, which was quite heavy but wasn’t too much of a problem given her recent training as Kion looked on in brief concern. “Very generous of you to offer what is sure to be a delicious offering.”

Granny Smith moved to approach the parents so she can greet them now that they have all arrived. "Y'all gabbin' with words real funny-like. Wh, wh, what'd you say them names were? Iggy? And I'm just gonna call you 'Big Momma Q'!"

Both Igneous and Cloudy shared the same awkward expressions as it is not customary nor traditional greetings that they are used to, but still carried out as nothing out of the ordinary.

Fuli approached one of Pinkie's sisters to introduce herself, "Hello, you must be…” She moved to shake her hoof only to be met with an heated glare from the angry pony.

"Gaze into the eyes of Limestone Pie. Ma and Pa Pie own the rock farm back home, but I keep it running. Cross me and-"

“You’ll do what?” Fuli asked without flinching much to the pony’s surprise.

Before she could react, Pinkie Pie quickly came in between the two, "Aye aye, Captain Grumpy! No-one's gonna mess with your precious mine. Considering we’re not there right now."

"But not Holder’s Boulder!” Limestone irritably remarked. “With who knows what is happening to it in my absence!”

“What is Holder’s Boulder?” Fuli asked.

“This is Holder’s Boulder!” Limestone irritably pulled out a photo and held it right in her face.

“Okay.” Fuli calmly pushed the photo out of her personal space. “Although a simple hold up the picture would have done just fine.”

“Come on, it’s not like Fuli could move that boulder even if she wanted too.” Pinkie said in her defense. “Even if she did she wouldn’t dream of cracking down hard on it.”

*squee*

Limestone wasn’t even close to being amused by her joke so she sighed in response. It was clear she was the most abrasive to the point she is worse than both Rainbow and Fuli combined having a bad day after that one time Bupu kicked them hard into the mud pit. All for payback just for giving them a hard time following all of the trouble they went to get him and his heard on over to safety.

Knowing her sister well, she borrowed the photo from her sister before moving to show it to everyone so they can see what Limestone is so protective over. “Everybody, this is Holder's Boulder, even thought it's not here please show respect and do not go near it nor touch it. There, you happy now?" Pinkie asked the abrasive and grumpy pony who only looked aside after having her case made. To her it was better than nothing.

“Wow, talk about attitude. As if Bupu was enough to drive us cranky as Cranky Doodle on a bad day.”

“Tell me about it. At least he got what was coming to him later on.”

“He sure did.”

Both the cheetah and rainbow maned Pegasus chuckled together to themselves with what they did is left for others to guess.

Beshte approached the fourth Pie sister, who quivered once she saw the ilt hippopotamus large. “Hey how are you doing? My name’s Beshte.” When she didn’t reply. He added as the pony refused to come closer to him. “You okay?”

“Of course she is!” Pinkie Pie quickly swooped in and hugged the younger sister. "This is Marble Pie, my baby sister who's only a year younger than me but she'll always be a baby to me, isn't that right?" She pinched her little sister's cheek, making her blush in embarrassment as she didn’t like having much focus directed towards her. Friends, family, all of the above.

"She's so excited to meet everybody! Oh, and she wishes you all happy Hearth's Warming!" When Marble didn't say anything, Pinkie gently nudged her elbow and gestured her to speak.

"Mm-hm." She replied weakly and shyly.

Seeing this had Beshte move to assure her he’s friendly. “It’s okay, Marble. I may be a big hippo but I’m one of the nicest guy’s you’ll ever meet. The same can be said for Fluttershy.” He turned to said pony who is intrigued to see another relatable pony in her field who flew over to greet her. “Isn’t that right?”

“Mmm-hmm. Exactly what he said.” She assured with a warm smile. “True to my namesake.” She giggled to herself before leading her along with Beshte inside.

As the whole family walked around the castle, they all looked on at what was around them. But they couldn't decide if they were a good astonished or a bad astonished. Unlike back at the farm, these folks are really festive in regards to celebrating the holiday season. Stockings, candy, sweets, candles, fancy party food, and presents underneath the tree. Something that it is not well accustomed to the Pie family since they never did anything like that back home. But even still they remained neutral for Pinkie’s sake who is really trying hard to get them to try new things in life. Question is what will get them to learn and adapt to their non-traditional ways. But so far things were looking up for both Apples and Pies.

Igneous and Cloudy strolled the castle with Granny Smith accompanying them in order to get to know them more. Fluttershy and Beshte both happily talked with Marble, even though she hardly said a word to them. And Limestone carried on with her ususal annoyed and angry look while both Rainbow and Fuli watch on very curious over what’s really eating her inside.

"So far, so good, cousin!" Applejack happily commented to the pink pony standing next to her.

"Hee-hee!" Pinkie giggled already liking what she is seeing so far.

“So far so good.” Twilight whispered to Kion as they both watched the scenes unfold before they moved to take the pot into the kitchen.

“Yep.” He then remembered. “And Bunga told me what he told you so, would now be a good time to get everybody and everything together for this performance of his?”

“In a little bit.” She replied once she put the pot on the table inside the kitchen. “Right after we make sure we have everything all ready for dinner tonight. Then we’ll get everyone we need together.”

“Get everyone you need together for what?” The lion king himself asked as he and Ma Tembo walked inside the kitchen.

“And what’s cooking?” She sniffed with her trunk and picked up something she found a bit odd. “Ooh it’s soup. May I?”

“Sure.”

“Go for it.”

Ma Tembo opened the lid and saw soup...with rocks in it. “Oh. Wow. This sure is quite an interesting combination.” Deep down she really wasn’t expecting at all. “Can’t wait to try it tonight.”

“Hope you do.” Maud’s voice said to her as she walked behind her much to the startled elephant's surprise. “It’s my family’s favorite.”

“Yes, of course. Can’t wait.” She said as politely and respectfully as possible as the girl walked on ahead. Once she was out of ear shot she quickly whispered to the others still alarmed by what she just did seconds ago. “That was creepy.”

“It can be to an extent.” Twilight whispered back very understanding of how that feels to be on both ends.

“No wonder that was heavy.” Kion commented as he put the lid back on and had some difficulty lifting it. “It has rocks in it.”

“No kidding.” She moved to give him a little magical assistance to make sure it goes back on the table so it remains preserved until dinner time. She turned to both the lion king and elephant to answer the former’s question. “We were just talking about ideas on how to further celebrate Hearth’s Warming Eve tonight. After dinner, of course.”

“What kind of idea?” Beshte asked as he too walked inside and then sniffed the Pie’s soup. “Other than rock soup?”

“How did you know without looking in the pot?” Kion asked feeling bewildered by that accurate guess.

“Easy. I’ve been around rocks long enough to know what they smell like. Especially warm ones.”

“Impressive.”

“Wow.”

“Anyways…” Twilight continued explaining to the curious group in front of them. “...the idea we were talking about is an idea for the holiday tonight. A potentially fun idea.”

“Like what?”

One explanation later with the rest of the lions and elephants getting ready to get seated at the main dinner table first…

“Dandy Claws? Santa Claus? I don’t like the sound of that.”

“You want me to do what?”

Both Ma Tembo and Simba asked highly surprised in response to what they were just told.

Mtoto had different thoughts compared to the older elephant. “I think it sounds like fun. Can we, Ma Tembo? Please?”

“What was it you said we'd be doing?” Ma Tembo asked again.

“Um, a-honking?” Beshte answered.

Mtoto was already liking the idea. “Hear that? It's a performance!”

Considering it ties into her liking and the fact that she also can’t find it in her heart to say no to the little one, Ma Tembo replied now investing in the idea herself. “Hmm. I do love to perform.”

“And Beshte's like family.” Mtoto added.

And that was enough to get the matarich of the elephant clan on board. “We elephants would be delighted to be in your Heart’s Warming and Christmas performance.”

“Yay!” Ma Tembo was so excited he trumpeted loudly much to the guests startled reactions from outside.

Seeing that the elephants are into this idea, Twilight and Kion turned to the lion king where the rest of his family have been fully informed of what they would be doing in this performance proposal.

“So...?”

“...Are you in too?”

He hesitated a bit “Well…”

“Oh, come on, Dad, please?” Kion eagerly implored his father with a smile. “It's for Timon and Pumbaa.”

“Just think of all they've done for you over the years, Simba.” Nala pointed out finding the performance something worth pursing. “And besides, you might enjoy yourself.”

“Mom's right, Dad.” Kiara said in agreement with her mother. “I think you'll have fun.”

“It’ll be just like the good old days.” Twilight added. “Back when you get to do the fun things you used to do when you were young.”

“Well that is true.” Simba admitted with a smile before replying with a positive answer. “Fine, I'll be in your song.”

“Thanks, Dad.”

“But if I'm going to do it, so are you. Both of you.” He added eyeing both of his children as a conditional term to the agreement.

Kion truthfully expected that with what he said next. “Actually, we need all of you. And Tiifu and Zuri, too.” He said in their direction.

“Great!” Kiara leaped ecstatically. “We can all leap together!

“Kion, you can count on us.” His mother assured their support for her son.

“Thanks, everybody. We’ll talk more about it after dinner. Which means it should be about time to get everything right about now.”

“That’s right!” Twilight cheerfully. “Let’s go! And Happy Hearth’s Warming!”

“Now I gotta go. You won't believe all the things we need for this song! And Merry Christmas!” With that Kion took his leave too.

The rest of the Lion family returned the holiday blessing though still a bit confused.

“Uh, Happy Hearth’s Warming and Merry Christmas?”

“Happy Hearth’s Warming and Merry Christmas, Kion, Twilight.”

“Yes, whatever that means.”

Nala, Kiara, and Simba all returned in that order.

Now that is about time for dinner, everyone started to make their way towards the dining room where it’ll be served. After finishing showing the Pie parents around the castle, Granny Smith returned to her granddaughter’s side as they make their way to the table.

Apple Bloom upon getting closer and closer to the food they are all about ot have could already start smelling the good stuff they’ve waited for up to this day. "Oh, I can't wait to taste these fresh sweet rolls! They're my favorite part of Hearth's Warmin' Eve dinner."

"I'm more of a six-layer bean dip filly myself!" Granny Smith commented.

"I love that too!" Apple Bloom looked at the pot that the Pie family had brought with them, "I wonder what’s the favorite part for Pinkie's family?" She wondered while turning to her big sister.

"Well if it’s something they have all enjoyed together, It wouldn’t surprise me if it’s a very special and mighty tasty dish.” Applejack replied.

“It sure is!” Pinkie appeared out of nowhere as she and Maud trotted alongside them. “Are you excited for dinner time, because guess who is! Spoiler alert: It's me!"

As they got seated at the table, Applejack managed to get a good look at the rock soup pot on the table where the Pies were all being served each a serving just on the outside side of the table from the Apples. "Rock soup?”

"Uh-huh! The one and only Pie family special for Hearth’s Warming Eve!” Pinkie Pie smiled with glee as she looked forward to digging into the soup being poured into the bowls.

Applejack could only look on astonished and feeling pity for her and her family about seeing that's the only thing they have to celebrate the holidays with. “But what about hot rolls, and malt cider, and double-baked pot pie? You've never had any of that?" She asked.

"Potato, po-tah-to. Double baked pot pie, rock soup! Dinner is dinner, am I right or am I right?"

Applejack looked around at the rest of the spread compared to the food Pinkie's family brought. To her and mostly everyone else would sure see the soup as something not traditionally nor ordinarily served at the table, especially on a holiday celebration.

“But of course we do make sure not to feed it those who can’t eat hard solid rocks.” She added in assurance. “So all is good.”

“Yeah...okay.” Applejack returned while biting the bottom lip and scratched the back of her head. Given that honesty at times like this is hard without being rude and hurtful about it, she really didn’t know what else to say other than being a good supporting friend.

"But not to worry. After dinner, we get to show you and the other Apples on how to make Heart's Warming dolls our way!"

Applejack wholeheartedly smiled in response. "Now that's somethin' I know all about!"

Once it was time for dinner, everyone got in line so they can all hand/hoof/paw choose their choice from the very long table and selections of offerings presented by many generous guests and family members. And there were many selections from the nature elements from the Pride Lands to the Pie’s rock soup, along with the various Equestrian cuisine. Since the two worlds have bonded they have both taken a liking to what was offered in front of them.

While the Apples and Pies were trying to bond, other families bonded on their own during dinner. Twilight sat with her family along with both Celestia and Luna who both managed to show up in time for dinner. Kion sat with his family, while Bunga sat with Timon and Pumbaa. Beshte sat with his father and the other hippos, while Fuli sat with her childhood friends, and Kyoga sat with her siblings.

Fuli was now happily chatting and catching up with both Sally and Sassy, while Beshte is more than happy to recall his latest adventures about his past heroic acts as the Guard’s Strongest with the other hippos. At the same time, Twilight was eagerly on board with discussing about names for the new baby that both her brother and sister-in-law will soon have since Cadance has been pregnant shortly after the events of the second Battle for Pride Rock. So far a new name hasn’t been decided since they don’t know what kind of baby to expect, a unicorn or an alicorn. But they did know it was a mare, and sure seemed to be a powerful bundle already at this stage of her pregnancy.

Elsewhere, Bunga while keeping his spirits up made sure on his part to make sure that his uncles are none of the wiser to his surprise for them later tonight.

“Ooh!” Bunga munched on another grub on his plate while mentally singing to himself. “Nine bugs a-crawling Big, fat, juicy, delicious-looking bugs.”

“Bunga?” Ono flew on over to his table where Timon and Pumbaa. “You're saving those for the song, right?”

“Not to worry.” Bunga assured his somewhat anxious friend. “There’s plenty to go around.”

Just then they heard the Dandy Claws Christmas Jingle courtesy of Pumbaa

“For the First Wayof Christmas...my good friend gave to me, a rhino in a baobab tree.”

Since there was nothing to hide both Bunga and Ono were able to play it cool when Pumbaa arrived at the table with his serving of grubs he got for dinner tonight.

“Oh, hi, fellas.” He greeted upon sitting at the table.

“Hi, Uncle Pumbaa.”

“Whatcha up to?”

“Nothing. Just hangin' out. Not looking for anything squirmy, what you doing?”

“Oh, who, me? Uh, nothing. I'm definitely not lookin' for a special Christmas surprise for Timon, I'll tell ya that.” He leaned in whispering into his ear. “I don’t know about you but I think he might be trying to eye whatever presents the others have brought to share with each other later tonight.”

“Yeah, us neither.” Bunga replied just when Ono moved to check up on him along with Spike since presents are the sole focus of the holiday on their minds today. “Man these grubs you brought tonight are Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“I know! Especially considering me and Timon nearly cleaned them out!” Bunga’s eyes widen in shock upon hearing that. “Mmm.” He slurped down his next helping like it was nothing. “I’d tell you slimy and crunchy both at the same time and something you can’t get enough of, am I right?”

“Right!” Bunga’s smile was now bordering on being somewhat nervous as he put the plate of his nine remaining grubs aside so he can use them for his surprise performance tonight. “So much for a full packed meal.” He muttered to himself before he moved to try something new to avoid starving to death.

Applejack looked down at the green soup before her, still hesitant to try it. "What's wrong, Applejack?" Pinkie asked.

"Oh, nothin'. I'm just being a rusty fiddle is all." She replied as she took the spoon and began sipping the soup. But even still she had a hard time downing it when seeing the Pie family actually being able to munch, chew, and eat the rocks served on their plates. Furthermore, they didn’t even try anything else that was served on the table. Unlike some folks, the taste really didn't do her justice. The Pies were able to eat actual rocks with their soup, and even managed to chew on a few, but Applejack…this was definitely not her kind of meal. None the less, she gulped down the liquid and exasperated once it was over.

Pinkie Pie sipped her bowl clean and dry and moved to ask for seconds. "More rock, please!"

Later, Pinkie Pie and her family unloaded a white sack filled with rocks in front of the Apple Family. Out of respect for the princess who is hosting the gathering The Pies had taken the Apples outside for the rocks wouldn't ruin the castle floors. The two families were in the backyard, showcasing the Apples how they make their own Heart's Warming dolls. Since the other ponies taught other friends how to make their own dolls, the Pies decided to teach their supposed distant relatives how to make theirs their way. In another bag, the Pies had pickaxes so they can use as tools so they can make them.

Upon getting her rock and axe, Pinkie wasted no time in getting to work with it. “Who wants a Hearth's Warming doll?" She happily asked everyone.

Applejack looked down at her untouched rock in confusion, as did the rest of her family. "Are you sayin' that rock is a Hearth's Warmin' doll?"

"Don't be silly, silly! Our dolls are these little pieces! Isn't that right, Marble Pie?"

Marble Pie blushed and looked aside just as she was about to carve her own doll from her rock. "Mm-hm." She nodded before twisting her palm and opening her hoof to create the figure of her pony self.

Apple Bloom studied her own rock, she had never made a figure out of stone before, "Our dolls are... rocks?" She asked, wondering how she was going to make a figurine with this.

Applejack mimicked what the Pies did to create their dolls, but instead only crumbled her stone to bits in her pick ax. "Uh… y'all don't have traditional crochet dolls, passed down in your family?"

"Aww, you're just a frown factory 'cause you got a weird rock." Pinkie commented in reply, showing the frowning faced rock Applejack had accidentally created.

Applejack sighed in disappointment as this isn’t what she envisioned tonight to be. The Pies in contrast to everyone else weren't blending in with what everyone else is doing to celebrate the holidays. What is it about what they do is so hard for them to adapt to their traditions?

Back inside the room where the big Hearth’s Warming and Christmas tree is, Spike looked around with his eyes shifting around the area, making sure nobody else was around to see him before making another attempt at sneaking a peek at the presents. But before he could reach out to a single present…

"That’s close enough.” Sunset’s stern voice spoke up to spook the sneaky dragon who froze in his tracks.

“Sunset? Are you standing right behind me?”

“Yep.” Spike unfroze himself as he retracted his claw.

“Aw man, who squealed me out to you?”

“No one other than a little birdie soaring across the castle just when I happened to come out of my room to get a taste of tonight’s dinner.” Sunset’s eyes remained focused on him as she approached him. “Twilight has only one rule in that regard, and yet you are constantly trying to break it. Which I myself would be very proud of if it were before the Fall Formal…” She smirked to applaud his sneaky spirit before frowning again. “...but would also get yourself in trouble.”

“Are you sure you can’t keep just one present open to ourselves…” Spike asked with a devious grin followed by a pleading look similar to when she attempted to frame Twilight for trashing the gym.

But Sunset wasn’t impressed nor budging from her stance. “Nope. Nice try.” Spike pouted once more in defeat. “But I will join in on dinner just for Twilight’s sake. Just tell her I’m on my way down.”

“Of course! Absolutely!” Knowing that Twilight would be especially happy to hear she is trying to get into the holiday spirit had him rushing downstairs to tell him.

Just then Sunset happened to come across Applejack who is looking a bit distraught herself. Not into another conversation but still having her own compassion surface up had her biting what’s bugging her. “Okay, Applejack. What is it?" The country pony simply showed her the rock she is holding. “A rock?”

"A…Heart's Warmin' doll.” She corrected. “Per Pinkie’s family tradition to making them." She handed Sunset the stone who only looked on like she is not seeing things correctly here.

"Wow. I never would have guessed of how creative this looks."

"Sunset…” Applejack looked on clearly not fooled by the attempt to downplay of what she really thinks of it.

“Okay you got me. Just trying to be polite about it.”

“I understand but there ain’t no trying to sugarcoat it.”

“But still point being it’s still a family tradition of theirs that should at least be respected. I mean…” She pulls out her bowl of rock soup that she managed to obtain while everyone wasn’t looking at the table. “...sure their rock soup is quite odd, but it actually tastes pretty good.” She made a weird face she tasted the rock taste that got into the soup but still didn’t spit it out to prove her point.

"But still, the Pie Family has carried out tonight with rock made Hearth’s Warming Dolls and are planning on showing a flag finding mission.”

“How does that work?”

"Instead of havin' the youngest member of the family to raise the flagpole, they have this race where whoever finds this oddly specific stone, raises the flag."

"That actually sounds like a nice idea. Gives everyone a fighting chance to be able to raise the flag if you ask me."

"But the thing is there is no flag pole, nor it is how we do it."

“Okay, so what’s the big deal? I mean I understand you are used to your own traditions but so does the Pies, and I don’t think they are doing anything wrong. I mean it is their first Hearth’s Warming outside of the farm so it would make sense they would stick to their own traditional ways even in a different environment outside of their comfort zone.”

“But didn’t you just go along with celebrating Christmas back at your home?”

Sunset looked on blankly like it’s a stupid question. “Yes but that was because unlike you I haven’t celebrated the holidays here and there up until I was finally opening my heart up to friendship. The point I was trying to make is that if other’s have different traditions then you should at least respect them and if that’s not enough at least try to find a compromise so that everyone could be happy together.”

Applejack sighed as she conceded to her point. “I get it, but I just wish there was a way for them to see how much better theirs could be."

Sunset groaned in response as she is trying really hard to keep her temper under check before speaking once more. “Applejack, I must advise against it because disrespect towards other’s traditions ain’t going to fly. You might not see it that way but the Pies will and be sure to make you regret it if it comes down to that. So if I were you, just don’t go there.”

“All right fine.” Applejack relented rather passive aggressively before storming off much to the unicorn’s dismay. It’s like trying to talk to her when she refused to hear out her earlier attempted explanation that she is not Anon-a-Miss.

“At least she didn’t drive me to tears.” She muttered to herself before moving to join Twilight and Spike at the table who were both eagerly waiting for her the second she promised she’d join them there. All while personally hoping that Applejack wouldn’t do anything rash to make enemies instead of friends.

Elsewhere in the Pride Lands Fuli is making a quick trip to the Pride Lands to fetch berries Bunga needs for the performance. An easy task for one, if said individual is a flyer which she unlike Rainbow Dash is not.

“How did I get stuck with gathering berries? All because I wound up getting randomly picked to do it or because everyone else is too busy back in Equestria to do it?” She said to herself as she struggled in vain to even reach the lowest branches of the trees in front of her.

“Don’t worry, Fuli!”

“We’re coming!”

Both Sally and Sassy shouted after her as they quickly arrived on the scene to hep her out.

“Get ready on three!” Fuli called back to them as they approached her side to side.

“Three!”

“Two!”

“One!”

By working together, first Sally leaped onto Fuli’s back, with Sassy leaping up on top of Sally so she can leap up yank a branch clean off. One that had berries on it. She then managed to leap on all fours without tumbling or crashing into anybody.

“Got them!”

“Yes!”

“Way to go!”

The other two cheetahs complimented.

“Hey, down there, young cheetahs!” A voice suddenly called out to them which startled the cheetahs upon hearing it.

“Huh?”

“What?”

“Who's up there?”

Said owner of that voice appeared before them as he appeared and popped out from the leaves of the tree he was standing on along with two more of his companions. “It's me! Uroho! And the amazing Mwizi and Mwevi! You might know us as The Traveling Baboon Show!”

“Oh, yeah. I remember you.” Fuli said not entirely enthusiastic about seeing them again.

“Friends of yours?” Sally asked.

“Not exactly.

“You mean they are or they aren’t.” Sassy inquired expecting a more specific answer.

“Well...long story short these baboons happened to put on a show around these parts of the Pride Lands a little over a year ago and they nearly made off with all of the food before being caught red-handed by us. After saving them from the Outsiders we gave them a second chance to turn their act around…” The baboons chuckled in response to that pun. “...and yes, I said it. While they have made good on it since then, we haven’t seen them long enough to see wherever they’ve still made good on their promise.”

“Understandable, but I can assure you we have definitely changed for the better. In fact...” The group leader said before turning to the other baboons. “...Come on, fellas. Help the cheetahs out.”

Through a series of acrobatic movements like they did in the past the talented trio were able to obtain another handful of berries big enough for the other two cheetahs to carry on two leaves like it was a delicate dessert dish before landing on the ground gracefully in front of the trio. Needless to say, both Sally and Sassy were amazed with their performance and assistance.

“Wow!”

“That was pretty incredible!”

“I never thought I'd say this, but thank you, baboons.”

“So, what do you need the berries for?” Uroho asked when he handed Fuli’s friends the requested fruit.

“They're for, uh, a performance. Kinda silly, but it's for a friend.” Fuli explained before continuing knowing this might spark their interest. “You know, we need some baboons, too. Something else I never thought I'd say.”

Hearing this the ringleader all ears for. “A performance, huh? We are intrigued. Tell us more, please.”

“Okay, well, have you ever heard of Christmas and Hearth’s Warming?”

Meanwhile back at the castle grounds in the backyard, stood a large field, a large decorated tree, along with a large boulder and a flag pole in the very center of a decorated holiday themed boulder. (Not Holder’s Bolder) Pinkie Pie stood before her family, the Apple family, the Lion Guard fan club, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, who have all gathered to play this game of the Pies.

Once everyone was gathered, Pinkie Pie began pairing up the teams, "Limestone Pie, you're the judge! Big Mac, Marble Pie, you're team one!" Pinkie forcibly shoved both ponies close to each other.

While it went unnoticed by many upon first glance, Big Mac did find the shy silent pony quite adorable, especially upon seeing of how much she is like him. A pony of very few words who has difficulty expressing her emotions as it seems. Likewise, Marble found the stallion quite handsome and charming, not to mention strong and calm. She couldn't help but blush which her mane had the fortune of partially covering her face hoping that he didn't notice. Likewise, Big Mac was blushing too, which was partially noticed thanks to his equally red coat.

Next, Pinkie Pie paired up the youngest apple with her older sister. "Apple Bloom and Maud, you're team two!" She quickly zipped towards the elders of both families and paired them up too. "Ma, Pa, you're gonna be with Granny Smith. Don't think of it as team old, think of it as team three!

She popped from behind the other Crusaders. "Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, you two are team four! Mtoto, Shakku, Gumba, Kwato, Kambuni, you're team five, since there's five of you!”

“Aw, yeah!”

“High five!”

Both Shakku and Gumba happily declared as they did just that.

And I'm with Applejack of course, since we might be cousins! And yes team six!" Pinkie cleared her throat before explaining the scenario to the others, "As everybody knows, when the three tribes united to form Equestria, the first flag was sewn by Nimble Thimble. It's tradition to raise a flag on Hearth's Warming to celebrate that famous day. But who gets to put the flag on Holder's Boulder?"

"You mean on the flagpole?" Applejack reminded.

"Oh right, also that’s not Holder’s Bolder."

"Better not me!" Limestone assertively stated.

Pinkie rolled her eyes in response to that remark. "It’s not. Sheesh." She returned before reverting back to her enthusiastic self, "And who's the lucky one who gets to put the flag on the highest point?"

"Traditionally, it's the youngest-" Applejack began before being interrupted when Pinkie Pie shouted quickly.

"On your marks get set, go!"

The teams split up to search for the stone, which was hidden somewhere around the castle, since inside they didn't want to cause a scene, especially with high royalty guests inside. The castle itself had a nearby forest with multiple rocks around the grounds, so the children and groups searched around to find the obsidian stone. Applejack and Pinkie searched the left side of the castle, looking for the stone.

"I still don't understand." Applejack commented to her partner.

"Earlier today, Limestone Pie hid an obsidian stone. Whoever finds it gets to raise the flag! I already told you, remember?"

"It's not that, it's just…this is all so…different."

"Well, how else would we do it?"

"I don't know... I sure hope everypony else is havin' a better time."

On the right side of the castle, Marble and Big Mac searched for the stone. All while saying nothing more “Mm-hm." and "Eeyup." While not much, it did allow the two to further connect and understand each other more than their more talkative family members.

"Mm-hm."

"Eeeeeeeeeyup."

To many it wouldn’t be much of a conversation but to them it was quite something. The fact they could show so much emotion into just one word. Just by listening to each other “Eeyups" and "Mm-hms" they could see exactly what they are thinking all without saying anything. And that’s all they need.

Granny Smith, Cloudy Quartz and Igneous Rock searched the front of the castle for the stone. All while the matriarch of the Apple Clan stoke up a conversation with the Mr and the Mrs of the Pie clan, and interestingly she found them to be actually be quite very interesting ponies to talk to.

"So, how'd you meet your diddy feller?" She asked the mare.

"We were chosen by the Pairing Stone, and betrothed within a fortnight."

"The choosing stone decreed 'thou shalt love one another', and lo, it was so." Igneous explained, while his wife nodded in agreement much to Granny’s fascination.

"He, I got's to look into this old fangled choosin' stone thing. You reckon it knows any apple fire-red hunks?"

Cloudy giggled while her husband blushed bashfully, "Indeed so."

So far things were sure rolling around smoothly between the three of them.

The Crusaders, Lion Guard fan club, and Maud searched the farther back of the castle nearby the forest with more stones around the area. The kids having never known Maud up until now didn't know how to start a conversation with her, considering she isn’t the pony who likes talking and expressing her emotions compared to them. But none of the less, Apple Bloom moved to strike up a conversation with her since to her she is family.

After some awkward silence and non-verbal exchanges with the other kids she moved to scratch the back of her head before asking. "What does the rock look like?"

"It looks like something that formed when volcanic lava cooled quickly." Maud replied in her usual deadpan voice while inspecting several rocks around her.

“Something like in the Outlands Volcano because that’s what my big brother Beshte told me?” Mtoto asked as he spoke up himself.

“Yes.”

"Oh."

"Have you ever wished you could turn into a rock?"

"I had a dream once I was an apple." Apple Bloom honestly replied.

"I once dreamed I was the fastest, just like Fuli.” Kwato said.

“And I dreamed I had very keen sight, just like Ono.” Kambuni chimed in.

“Up until recently we wished we could get our cutie marks.” Scootaloo added.

“Along with getting to spend more quality time with our bigger sisters.” Sweetie also added herself.

"And for me, I once dreamed I was as big and strong as Beshte." Mtoto next said.

Maud stood up from squatting down looking at the rocks and turned around to face the kids. Regardless of her serious and stoic expression, her deadpan tone did have elements of kindness inside of it. "We have a lot in common when it comes to thinking about turning into things."

Even though she didn't communicate or express her emotions like every other pony, that didn't mean she wasn't nice. Her compliment touched the kids who all began to feel more comfortable with the earth pony with a very unique personality.

Applejack was just about ready to give up on this search when she heard both the mongoose and the baboon shout out to everyone.

“Hey everyone!”

“We got something!”

“What is it?” Applejack curiously asked.

“We don’t about this but we it is something.“

“This recently created piece of paper which has a picture of a rock on it.”

The latter revealed the piece of paper with the drawing of a dark colored rock and upon witnessing it, Pinkie Pie gasped in delight.

"You found it! You found it!" She smiled and hugged the confused pair, while Applejack was beyond baffled by this revelation.

"A picture? I've been lookin' for a real stone, Pinkie Pie!"

Pinkie released both Shakku and Gumba and arched an eyebrow at her friend, as if she had just said the strangest thing she had ever heard. "Um, that would be weird." She replied seriously before reverting back to her usual happy self, "Do you know what this means? You both get to raise the flag tomorrow!"

“Awesome!”

“Excellent!”

The two high fived each other once more victoriously. It may not be quite what they expected but they sure had quite a fun time playing for it.

"That was fun!"

“You said it, buddy!”

Applejack had to admit, they sure seemed happy, but she still felt it was a shame this couldn't be exactly how Pinkie's family did it, which only made her wonder if them having their old fashioned traditions here would make them feel out of place.

"So, what now?" Pinkie asked.

"Well, normally at this point it's time to hide the presents."

Applejack shook her head in disbelief, "Y'all hide your presents?"

"Of course! What's more fun than getting a present? Finding a present! Although, most years, nopony finds one."

"So nopony gets presents?"

"Eh, not usually." Pinkie said with a shrug, acting as if it wasn't that big of a deal, further shocking her friend even more.

"So lemme get all this straight. You're only allowed to eat rock soup for dinner, then the pony who finds this rock gets to raise the flag, but not really 'cause you don't got no flagpole, and to top it off, you don't even get presents?"

For a moment, Pinkie's enthusiasm came to a halt as she began putting Applejack's words into perspective. "Well, it doesn't sound very fun when you say it that way." she said. In reality, it was true. Compared to how this entire party was set up, her family's normal traditions seemed almost…half-done. Still, she loved sharing those traditions with her family every year, but maybe there could be another way for them to celebrate it, even if it was just once.

"Not to mention I haven't seen your folks barely interact with anybody else."

"Well, they're just not used to all of this. My family is every traditional, you wouldn't believe how many pretty pleases with a cherry on top I had to do to get them to come tonight."

"Wait…they didn't want to come in the first place?"

Realizing she had let the cat out of the bag, Pinkie Pie blushed and fiddled with her hair, her ears lowering down in sadness. "Well…I…you see…I just really wanted our families to get along."

"Well, how 'bout you picture this: Both our families, openin' presents, raisin' the flag…?"

"Picturing it... Loving it…!"

"We've been doin' everythin' your way, what'ya say we could mix it up a bit?"

Back inside the castle, Sunset is just finishing up dinner with her (on her part reluctant) conversation with Twilight, Spike, Shining Armor, and Cadance about how she’s been since the wedding, minus the whole reason why she is here for obvious reasons.

“I mean I got to tell you, ever since I moved here it sure has been quite nice. Going on patrol with the Guard, doing a little crime fighting, and even getting spend quality time with my friends here, even while most mirror to one another.” Sunset explained to the others.

“That’s very good to hear, Sunset.” Cadance said very pleased with what she is hearing and how much she has turned herself around.

“It sure is. Funny coming from someone who used to look down on friendship like it’s the least best thing.” Shining Armor commented equally pleased.

“Right along with attempting to make off with one’s crown like it was in the wrong hooves.” Sunset chuckled to herself being able to take humor in it for the sake of the moment. “And to think doing that wound up making an original enemy into the best friend I’ve ever had.”

Twilight blushed as she looked aside feeling very humbled by her glowing praise. “Aw, how sweet!” She then cleared her throat upon seeing the smirks plastered on her brother and sister-in-law’s faces. “But um...I mean...uh…” She cleared her throat to regain her composure. “So I take you are liking what Hearth’s Warming has to offer?”

“Amazingly, yes.” She admitted. “The food was amazing and I had great company so far. It was exactly like how Christmas usually is celebrated.”

“Christmas? What’s that?” The stallion asked.

“Nothing out of the ordinary. Piratically the same holiday as Hearth’s Warming in the other world all minus the name itself.” She explained in a brief and straight to the point manner. “As for it’s traditions that follow, I still don’t quite understand them but I still respect them if that’s how it’s done.”

“Commendable.”

The pink alicorn looked a little hesitant before pressing forward with this question in mind. “Sunset...forgive me if this is a bit too soon but, have you ever thought about trying to talk to the girls back at Canterlot High?”

Sunset sighed heavily before honestly answering. “Yes and No not yet. I mean I have but I just can’t find it myself to talk them for the way they hurt me. Compared to simply ignoring a silly filly that I would know alter on in life, getting wrongly accused and abandoned of something I didn’t have anything to do with, still really hurts.”

“Fair enough.” She quickly said. “I was just asking. I wasn’t trying to force you into doing something that you don’t want to.”

“No, no, it’s all right, a fair question. I mean I will eventually have to go back when school starts back up there should I decide I have a future back there but I just can’t talk to them right now.”

“And that’s completely fair and reasonable.” Twilight assured. “I’m sure the Pride Landers along with everyone in Equestria will love having you around.”

Sunset chuckled. “I’m sure they will.”

With that decided, Twilight then focused on the next holiday fun for tonight. “Anyways, it’s now time to watch for the Pride Landers to rehearse the Twelve Ways of Christmas.”

“The Twelve Ways of Christmas?” Sunset looked on confused. “You mean the Twelve Days of Christmas, right?”

“Yep.”

“And this happens to be Bunga’s idea and version of the song, right?”

“Yep. That okay?”

“Sure. I mean it’s not exactly Christmas tradition but I don’t see any harm with trying new things and new traditions. So yeah, I’ll be okay with it.”

“You sure?”

“Yep. I’ll join and see how this little performance of theirs goes.”

“Okay.” Twilight smiled seeing that so far the evening is getting better and better for Sunset. Aside from one moment in particular, she’s more upbeat and into the holidays once more.

But will it stick?

Back outside, Simba’s Pride had made their way outside towards the area where Kion was expecting them. The large decorated tree.

“Hmm. That is one strange-looking acacia tree.” Simba said in observation.

“It's pretty, though.” His daughter complimented none of the less.

“It must be the Christmas Tree, Kion told us about.” Nala commented upon arriving.

Upon seeing them arrive, Kion was quick to greet them. “Hey, you made it.”

“Are we the first ones here?” His father asked.

“Uh, not exactly.” He half-truthfully answered before leading the way. “Come on!”

When Kion brought them to where he wanted them to go, they found that everyone else had already arrived waiting to get started.

“Oh, my. This is a big production.” The lion queen remarked in delighted surprise.

Standing on top of the large rock, is where Bunga took charge in being director for this special performance. “Okay, everybody, you gotta pay attention, 'cause we've only got till sunrise to get this right.”

The young elephant eagerly approached the honey badger at the ready. “I already know what to do.” He quickly blew his trumpet which was quickly clamped by his friend.

“Shh! Not so loud! You'll wake up Uncle Timon and Uncle Pumbaa!”

“Sorry.” He quickly said upon realizing the mistake he nearly made.

“Hakuna Matata.” He happily assured. “Just save it for the performance.”

“What about us? What do we do?” Simba asked from behind.

“One at a time, okay?” He returned rather annoyed before he moved to turn around allowing himself to see who he just brushed aside. “Oh. Hi, Your Highness's. My apologies.” He bowed in respect to them. “Didn't see you there.”

“Don't let us interrupt you, Bunga.” Nala returned taking no offense to it. “You were saying?”

“Uh, yeah.” Bunga turned back to everyone before continuing. “So, we need to do the song perfectly if we want Dandy Claws to show up!”

“But no pressure.” Fuli chimed in for quick assurance.

“Right, right. No pressure.”

“Don't worry, Little B. It's gonna be great.” Beshte said encouragingly to one of his best friends.

“Wait. Who's Dandy Claws again?” Uroho asked.

“Actually I think it was Santa Claus from what I heard.” Sally spoke up begging to differ there.

“Well for this particular performance, it’s Dandy Claws.” Bunga quickly said in order to get everyone to stay on point. “The rest of you remember Dandy Claws, right?”

“No!” They all firmly stated.

“This is going to be a long night.” Ono commented a little weary himself.

“Okay, from the beginning.” Bunga instructed everyone before beginning rehearsal just when Twilight and Sunset arrived so they watch it unfold before them.

The rehearsal went through long through the night right into the morning just when the sun is about to rise. By then they have just perfected down to form.

“And a rhino in a baobab tree.”

“Perfect!”

“Yeah that was great.”

“Thanks, everyone.”

Twilight, Sunset, and Kion all positively commented.

But Bunga begged to differ. “Yeah, well, we're getting closer. Okay, from the beginning.”

Everyone all groaned in response.

“Bunga, we've been practicing all night long.” Kion reminded his friend.

“I know, but it needs to be perfect.”

“Bunga, we're out of time. The sun's about to come up.

“And there is no way Celestia is going to delay raising it for another day just to get it perfected the way you want it.”

Both Ono and Twilight firmly reminded.

“I mean it’s not like this Santa Claus or Dandy Claws was going to show up anyway.” Applejack remarked just finding this new Christmas celebration idea meaningless.

“What?!”

“Applejack?!”

Bunga and Pinkie remarked with the former sounding more devastated to hear such a thing while the latter is more shocked that she would actually say such a thing.

“What?!” Applejack returned trying to understand why they are looking at her like it is the craziest thing she ever said. “It’s true. Considering up until this point Christmas has never been celebrated here in Equestria. I mean it doesn’t really matter wherever it’s that or Hearth’s Warming considering we still spend time with family and friends along with exchanging gifts and all even if some stick out like a broken tree branch.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” Sunset angrily demanded feeling insulted already.

“Applejack, Sunset…” Kion spoke up trying to get them to calm down to no avail.

“Nothing, expect that I’ve been trying my hardest to understand these new traditions or yours and the rest of Pinkie Pie’s family all night, only it seems that both you nor the family want to see how much things should be done here.”

“Hold up! You think I enforced this on everyone?! Because last time I checked I never imposed this on anyone. Your friends decided they wanted to try it out, and I allowed them because who am I to decide of how traditions are celebrated here.”

“Well considering you never celebrated the holidays before in your life I wouldn’t expect for a miserable loner like you to know.”

“Now come on Applejack…” Twilight spoke up in an attempt to diffuse the escalating argument but the moment her friend said those last words it was too late.

Sunset’s eyes widen in rage upon hearing that. “Miserable Loner?!” Her eye was now twitching in fury and had to be held back by Twilight and Kion to keep her from exploding on the stubborn and insensitive country pony.

“Now come on everypony…” Pinkie said in an attempt to play peace maker. “...let’s all try to think positive thoughts here…”

"Pinkamena Diane Pie! Truly thou cannot favor this madness!"

But by then it was already too late since the Pie Family had seen and heard every word Applejack had just said about them.

“No, that’s not what I meant…” Pinkie nervously tried to explain to her father only to be faced with her equally furious and short-tempered sister.

“No. Not when your friend is making us feel like we don’t belong here.” Limestone furiously stated.

“I wasn’t trying to make you feel out of place!” Applejack retorted. “I was just trying to show you of how we celebrate the holidays here while trying to respect your family’s needs even your overly-protective desire when it comes to Holder’s Boulder.“

“Then I’m sure you know by now that it took me every day of the year just keep that rock farm up and running, if that boulder right around us is the real deal it would take me ages to get that rock farm back on track. Surely that is now bound to happen thanks to the orange apple you call a friend.”

“Excuse me?!” Applejack's face turned red as she quickly marched over to get face to face with her. “You want to say that again?!”

“What? Orange apple excuse of a friend trying to dictate of how to live our lives when she is doing nothing but riding around off of her high horse?”

Applejack growled before leaping on towards Limestone Pie who likewise freed herself before getting into a tussle with each other with Sunset joining in after freeing herself too.

The three going at it with bare hooves creating a dust cloud around them all while uttering more insults and demands that they take them back towards one another up until they crashed into the large bolder that resembled Holder’s Bolder. Upon impact, the rock tumbled away and ended up cracking into multiple pieces upon crashing into the big tree which also fell over and crashed into the ground.

“Nooooooooooooooo!” Limestone and Bunga both screamed in horror with what they just saw.

“Oh, boy!” Applejack looked in with horror with what their fighting had just caused and how she ended up instigating that incident and ended up causing Bunga to cry over the destroyed ornaments and holiday decorations.

Only now does she finally realize the damage she ended up doing. If she hadn’t agitated both Sunset and Limestone to begin with this never would have happened.

“You happy now?” Sunset asked calmly while scowling with disappointment. “For once just once they wanted to try out how Christmas works and try out what traditions and songs it has to offer and as for the Pies all they wanted was just to be to fit in like everyone else. Sure they could have been more open and compromised with your family as much you could have done the same for them but no, apparently that is just too much for you, because you wanted things to happen your way. As for me, I was willing to entertain this because I wanted to be a good friend and open to everyone’s wishes for the holidays. But just when I was getting back in the holiday spirit you ended up reminding me why I didn’t want to in the first place because of the same stubborn girl I met back in Canterlot High accusing me of being a terrible friend. After all of that, I thought you would know better but I guess I was wrong.” As her eyes started to form tears threatening to leak out. “Now if you’ll excuse me, former friend.” She coldly stated before teleporting away from the scene while crying from a broken heart.

Applejack could only look with mortified shame as she looked around the area to see everyone else’s shocked expressions. Pinkie however looked on in worry while Twilight looked on equally disappointed. She was left so stunned and guilt-ridden she galloping away from the gathering.

Pinkie Pie then turned back to her family hoping to ease the tension that had just happened. "Please, this was all a misunderstanding! I know Applejack, and she'd never do anything bad to anypony!"

Limestone however wasn’t convinced. "Look around, Pinkie Pie! None of us wanted to come in the first place and now the only thing close to Holder's Boulder for Heart's Warming is now in pieces and rubble, literally. This is all her fault and yours too!"

Tears welled up in Pinkie’s eyes before she turned and walked off in shame while crying once her back was turned.

Twilight determined not see her friend sink into another depression moved to follow one of her friends. “Keep everyone else in spirit, while I talk with Sunset.” Kion nodded in response before letting her teleport away to wherever Sunset disappeared to. At the same time Granny Smith decided to follow after both Applejack and Pinkie Pie hoping to do the same to them both as well.

“Little B. It’ll be okay.” Beshte was the first to comfort his best friend. “It was all just an accident.”

“I know. But look at what had just happened. And besides even if we do fix it, Applejack was right. It was nothing but an ill advised attempt in bringing Christmas here to both Equestria and the Pride Lands. Santa Claus, Dandy Claws are both frauds!” He cried.

“Sorry, Little B.” Was all Beshte could say in sympathy for his friend while the others looked on feeling the same way while unable to find it in themselves to leave him like this.

Kion was quick to speak up before any of them could think to leave. “Wait. Everybody, stop! Please! We can't just give up like this.”

Simba being the first to answer his son’s plea walked up to them both. “Kion, Bunga, what's so important about this... "Christmas"?

“Well…” Bunga managed to wipe the tears away and calm himself down enough to be able to talk to the older kion. “...Pumbaa and Sunset says Christmas is all about the spirit of giving. And both Pumbaa and Uncle Timon are the only family I have. They took me in when I was little, and all alone. They took you in, too.”

“Yes, they did.”

“They've given me everything. So this Christmas and Hearth’s Warming, I wanna give them a performance they won't forget.”

Having been reminded of that had Simba on board with doing that too. “Okay, Bunga. Then that is exactly what we are going to do. Right, everyone?”

“Of course, Your Majesty.” Ma Tembo replied with a nod.

“The show must go on.” Uroho enthusiastically stated

Hearing that had Bunga immediately cheered up. “Great! The sun's rising and time's a-wasting! Let's go!”

“And if you don’t mind…” Kion spoke up as he looked around the auidence. “...I have something else in mind for this performance…”

“Like what?” Bunga eagerly asked as Kion moved to whisper it in his ears. Once he was done, Bunga was already approving of it.

Elsewhere, inside the castle where the Hearth’s Warming Tree stood, Applejack sat beside it while crying and burying her face in her hooves. In the name of preserving tradition and clashing with it, she wound up making the Pies feel more like outcasts and wound up widening up the emotional wound that drove Sunset on over here. Now she can’t find it in herself to continue celebrating the holiday feeling she had already ruined it for everyone.

"I really cracked the corn this time."

"I really popped the piñata this time." Another voice was heard, sniffing and crying right beside her on the opposite side of the tree. She turned her head and saw a familiar figure there.

"Pinkie Pie?"

Pinkie yelped when she heard and then saw her friend, crying just like her, "What are you doing here?"

"What are you doin' here?"

"I came here to think!" the two said simultaneously again. "You did? So did I!" Regardless of the situation, the two best friends couldn't help but laugh at with how well they can speak and respond in unison together.

Applejack lowered her ears in regret before explaining why she ran off to cry here, "I'm too ashamed to go back there. Your family, my family, everyone, they all must think I'm such a nincompoop."

"Aw, no-one thinks that! Pushy, aggressive, mean…" Pinkie quickly stopped once noticing Applejack's annoyed expression, "Oh, I'm not helping. Sorry."

"I'm sorry I tried to forced my traditions over yours. I don't want you to have to choose between the family you were born into and friends who love you like one. I really hoped we could be one big happy family. I guess not."

"Don't say that! It’s not your fault. It’s my fault too. For not telling you of what to expect from my family when they agreed to show up here for Hearth’s Warming, and not doing enough to help them not feel so out of place."

“If there was a chance to wish for something today, I’d sure wish there was a way to make this right so that we could all celebrate both holidays together.”

“Maybe there is…” Granny’s Smith’s voice spoke to them as she appeared before them much to their surprise. “You want to know why Holder's Boulder's so danged important?" She asked the two who didn’t have a response for it. She then exhaled her breath against the nearby window and started making drawings on the window with her hoof while the two ponies stood up and watched from behind. "Well, now their great-great-great-great-great-great grandfather, Holder Cobblestone, he found that boulder in a dragon's nest, older than time itself! He built the family farm around it, even though it was just an ordinary rock. It always brought him good luck."

Now does the realization properly hit Applejack as she finally understand why the Pies do what they do for Hearth’s Warming. "Aw, crickets! That is important! Pinkie, I'm sorry. I got so caught up in the things your family was doin', I never asked why they did it!"

"And I never took time to fully understand why it was important myself and not telling you before hoof. To think had I just paid a little more attention in history classes back then."

"You and me both." She smiled warmly at her grandmother. “Thank you, Granny Smith.”

“Anytime.” She hugged both ponies in return.

Just then the trio all found herself jumping back in shock when a strange looking gift landed in front of her.

"Hey, my Heart's Warming gift!" Pinkie exclaimed with joy, "I hid it up the ceiling for you to find it, Applejack."

The country pony giggled, "Only you would hide a present on a roof." She read the card tied to a string and tears once again rolled down from her eyes. But these were tears of joy. "To Applejack, from Pinkie Pie. Cousins forever."

Pinkie Pie's eyes teared up as well and the two embraced in a warm hug like family feeling overwhelmed with heartfelt emotions from that gift tag alone.

"Happy Heart's Warming and Christmas, Applejack."

"Happy Heart’s Warming and Christmas to you too, Pinkie Pie."

Meanwhile, Sunset has retreated back to the library where the portal leading to the other world stands. Once there she wasted no time burying her face in a pillow on the couch in frustration with how terrible things have turned out for her. Just when she opened her eyes after all of that sobbing she noticed Twilight’s reflection in that puddle of tears she created. Before she realized it, the princess had a hoof placed on her back for comfort.

“Shh. Shh. It’s okay, Sunset. I’m here for you.”

“But why? Why did that have to happen?”

“I’m sure that was just a misunderstanding or more accurately a much needed adjustment period in regards to dealing with different traditions.”

“More like a needless waste of time and effort to try to put my past behind me.” She sadly remarked.

“Don’t say that. Trying to combine holidays and sharing traditions with one another was a great idea. I’m just sorry that whole fiasco happened, Sunset.” Twilight consolingly said.

“It’s not your fault, it’s mine for even bothering to introduce them to Christmas. Because I did, now the whole holiday is a mess.”

“No it’s not. You didn’t know what would happen and as for Applejack, well I’m sure she’ll be more than ready to apologize for what she said and did.”

“But how can you say that?! You saw what happened!” She stated rather upset as tears continued falling from her eyes when she turned to look at the princess.

Twilight still remained calm while dealing with her despairing friend. “I did. And I know for a fact that both Hearth’s Warming and Christmas are meant to come together to be celebrated as one. Do you know why?”

“Um…” She calmed herself down enough to answer her question. “Spending time with family and friends, exchanging gifts, sharing stories, and having fun.”

“Mmm-hmm.” Twilight nodded. “In fact I have a story that’ll help cheer you up.”

“Really?”

“I do.” Sunset sat up as she began telling a brief story as her friend sat beside her. “Once upon a time, there was this young girl in high school who just recently became friends with other students there. Throughout the semester, they grew to become great friends. One day they had an argument over a misunderstanding and refused to talk to one another again much to the young girl’s devastation. But then after some time apart, they came back to talk things out again after deciding that shouldn’t let that argument ruin their friendship. And they did because the young girl reminded of them of why she is the friend they can trust because she is not someone who takes their friendship for granted. After that, they apologized and resumed being her friend for years to come and they all lived happily ever after. The end.”

Sunset just looked on blankly while smirking. “Twilight, that young girl is me isn’t it? Along with her many friends?”

“Yeah.” She looked aside with a sheepish grin. “Just me trying to add humor in a heartwarming tale based on a true story.”

“I see. And I assume this is your way of cheering me up and trying to tell me that this is how we should re-console back in the other world?”

“Yes. Because deep down I know that’s how it’ll happen.” She moved place a hoof on the back on her neck. “Whenever you are ready, of course.”

“Thanks, Twilight. Happy Hearth’s Warming and Christmas.”

“Happy Hearth’s Warming and Christmas.”

The two moved to hug it out.

“So what do you say, want to try getting into the holiday spirit again?”

“What are we waiting for?” Sunset returned with a teasing smirk before racing off ahead.

Just when the Pride Landers and Equestrians have just finished off the performance again, Applejack and Pinkie Pie accompanied by Granny Smith, Twilight accompanying Sunset, all regrouped with everyone there, and when they did all eyes were on them.

“Oh, excuse us, we didn’t mean to interrupt the performance.” Applejack apologetically spoke to them when they turned their attention towards them.

“It’s quite all right.” Simba assured with a smile.

“Are you all okay?” Nala worryingly asked the ponies that ran off.

“We are now.” Pinkie happily replied.

Applejack knowing what had to be said moved to step forward towards the Pie Family while removing her head and placing it to her chest. "I'm really sorry. I wasn't tryin' to disrespect ya'll. I was so focused on us bein' one big happy family, I thought we needed the same traditions right away. What I should've done was learn about yours, and teach you about ours, and over time, we'd make new traditions together. I'm sorry, y'all.”

“Truth be told, we owe you an apology too.” Igneous replied while sharing the same hat to chest gesture before stepping forward. “Instead of embracing change and being willing to do the same with your family we instead choose not give it a chance.”

“Had we done that then we wouldn’t have contributed to the mess that had just happened.” Cloudy added in agreement before smiling. “Can thou forgive us?"

“Of course.” She smiled in return before turning to Limestone who looked aside bitterly. “Assuming one of your kinfolk is willing to do the same.”

“Limestone.” Pinkie nudged the pony on over to Applejack so she can properly apologize. “Don’t you think it’s time to forgive and forget?”

Limestone took a moment to muster up the courage to do so to showcase her regret for her recent behavior. “Yes. Applejack, I’m sorry I gave you a hard time and attacked you.”

“And I’m sorry I provoked you into attacking me too along with destroying that bolder you loved so much.”

“Not to worry…” She turned her head back towards the bolder now fully pieced together along with the Christmas and Hearth’s Warming Tree with the cracks being magically sealed shut like it never broke. “...your friend was able to put it together like glue.” She gestured to Kion who looked on like he thought nothing of it. “At this rate he might be able to do something that the king’s horses and men couldn’t do.”

“What’s that?”

“Put Humpty Dumpty back together again.”

“Really? Are you share you’re a rock solid pony?”

“Hey, just because that’s true doesn’t mean I’m willing to entertain myself with silly stories with my sister from time to time.”

Pinkie was touched hearing that. “Aww!”

The three ponies all shared an amused laugh together before the country pony then turned her attention to one more pony she needs to apologize too.

“Sunset. Much like Limestone Pie, I’m mighty sorry for provoking you into doing the same along with being inconsiderate of your feelings too. It was never my intention to repeat the same mistakes my other me did back in the other world. Can you forgive me too?”

“If this was back in Canterlot High, I would say no…” Applejack looked down in disappointment. “...but…” Her head and ears perked up. “...considering you were just frustrated with change along with the only damage done was just a bolder and a tree, along with having a very encouraging friend of yours to help me see that...of course I forgive you.” Applejack smiled in delight as the two ponies hugged it out.

Kion moved to step forward with some words of wisdom to say himself. “I know it’s not exactly tradition to some, but if there much like the Lion Gaurd standing before you it goes to show that just because we do things differently doesn't make your traditions are any less important, nor you should have to give them up.”

“And there is no right way to do Hearth’s Warming and Christmas, you just do it, with friends and family.” Twilight added in agreement.

“Absolutely!” Bunga wholeheartedly stated. “Now…” Focusing his attention back to their performance. “...onto this performance and pay attention because you all are going to love what we have in mind...”

Sometime later after the sun has fully rose from the sky, Timon and Pumbaa who have retired for the night in one of the guest rooms were greeted by their cheerful friends while half-asleep.

“Grubs, grubs…” Pumbaa muttered in his sleep just when they were awaken.

“Uncle Timon, Uncle Pumbaa! Wake up, it's Christmas!”

“And Hearth’s Warming Day!”

The two happily greeted on the opposite edge of their bed.

Pumbaa immediately got himself out of bed. “What, what, huh? Whoa, Christmas and Hearth’s Warming already? Hear that, Timon?

Timon however yawned and stretched in reponse before tucking himself back under the covers. “You know what? I'm gonna give Christmas a pass this year.”

Hearing that shocked the rest of his friends. “Huh? You're what?”

“Who needs the disappointment? I'm gonna sleep in.”

“Now come on Timon.” Pinkie encouraged otherwise as she got face to face with him. “It’s Christmas and Hearth’s Warming! A special day we look forward to all year long!

“And who knows? This just might be the best one ever!” Bunga added in agreement.

While not totally convinced Timon moved to entertain himself with the idea. “Yeah, I don't know about that. But okay.”

“Great. Come on!”

“The party awaits!”

They happily stated before being dragged away by the two with Pumbaa following after them on towards the Christmas and Hearth’s Warming Tree where everyone was waiting for them.

“So, what's going on here?” Timon asked upon seeing what he is seeing as The Lion and Pony Guard stand under the tree as Bunga put his hat on.

“Watch. This is the year we're finally going to get a visit from Dandy Claws and Santa Claus! [Bunga turns to his friends] Ready?

With the music starting their performance began all while their curious friends watch on as many Pride Landers and ponies partake in the performance.

The Twelve Ways and Days of Christmas

“Merry Christmas and Hearth’s Warming, Timon and Pumbaa!” Everyone all told the two after the song ended and just as Mbeya fell out of the tree he had stay in for the entire performance. Luckily for him both Twilight and Kion were able to soften his fall with a giant inflatable mattress they made appear with their magic.

Both Timon and Pumbaa were touched to the point they cried tears of joy. But Bunga briefly thought otherwise.

“Did we do it wrong?”

Pumbaa was quick to assert otherwise. "No. It was perfect!”

“These are tears of joy!” Timon further assured. “Not only was that was The Twelve Days and Ways of Christmas the way I always dreamed it could be but also wonderful additions to an already great song.” He then moved towards the others with great gratitude. “Thank you. Thank you, all of you.”

Kion then noticed his friend was looking a little disappointed himself. “What's wrong, Bunga?” He asked in concern.

“I just thought, after such a great performance, Dandy Claws and Santa Claus would come.”

“Well…”

Just then bells were heard ringing from nearby.

“Who's that?” Rarity asked curiously before they all turned their eyes towards two familiar figures dressed in red winters suits.

“Ho, ho, ho! It's me!”

“And me!”

“Santa Claus? Dandy Claws?”

“Pumbaa! You're Dandy Claws?”

“And you’re Santa Claus, Shining Armor!”

Both Timon and Twilight exclaimed in surprise.

“Yep!” Both replied in unison.

Pumbaa moved to explain first. “Well, you always wanted Dandy Claws to show up on Christmas, so I decided, this year, he would.”

“And as for me well, I did to help cheer your friend up, Twily. And judging from the look on her face, I think I did just that.”

“Are you sure it’s that and not just seeing your little sister being really embarrassed about it.” Sunset looked on like she is trying hard not to laugh as Twilight could only look aside with red cheeks while her friends couldn’t help but snicker behind her back.

Pumbaa then turned to his best friend as he spoke solemnly and regretfully to him. “The thing is, it took so long to put this costume together, I don't have any gifts to give you. Sorry, Timon.”

Timon however was to quick to embrace his friend already touched by the holiday spirit. “Pumbaa. Come on. You made Dandy Claws appear on Christmas day!”

“But you said Christmas was all about gifts.” Pumbaa reminded.

“And we got gifts. Look! Berries, bugs, fruit! But we also got lots of friends. And family. All right here. And they're the best gifts anybody could ask for.”

“Well said.” Twilight complimented the meerkat for understanding that before turning to her brother. “And Shining Armor, even though it is a bit embarrassing for me, the fact that you willing made Santa Claus appear too, all to help cheer my friend up, is very sweet of you.”

“And you know what this sounds like to me?” Her brother asked her along with Timon and Pumbaa.

Both Timon and Pumbaa quickly agreed and happily stated together. “It's the best Christmas ever!”

Seeing that had Bunga feeling very accomplished with achieving the results he wanted. “Wow. Thanks, guys!”

“Sure, Bunga.”

“Anytime partner.”

Both Kion and Applejack kindly returned.

“You know, I think we should celebrate Christmas every year.” Beshte suggested.

“Me, too.”

“Affirmative.”

“I think that is a splendid idea. Maybe I can help create the Santa Claus and Dandy Claws costumes.”

Applejack, Fuli, Ono, and Rarity all liked the idea too.

Everyone all standing under then all happily stated. “Happy Heart’s Warming and Merry Christmas!”

Spike already touched was given a surprise of his very own when Twilight levitated his present to his claws. The one he had been waiting to open all night. Like any excitable little kid that he is, he tore open the gift and his smile fell, only to quickly regain it once he saw Twilight smiling at him.

"Just what I always wanted…a book…"

While understanding this is to help keep himself from hulking out in size and causing another rampage like before, at least it was a book about where to find the most deliciously resourceful gems in all of Equestria.

"I'm really glad we got to know you better, Maud." Apple Bloom said to the oldest earth pony. "You're really sweet."

Later that morning everyone all moved inside so they could all have breakfast together in the same room where they had dinner. All while various guests are all enjoying themselves about the same seatings and gathering like night.

Apple Bloom and Maud Pie bonded together when the latter allowed the former to pet her pet rock, Boulder. At the same time, Limestone who helped Pinkie Pie out with the breakfast treats moved to offer one to Apple Bloom who gladly accepted and ate it. Maud herself was so happy to have found another Apple pony to befriend.

At the table where Fluttershy is sitting with both Marble and Big Mac who have both started to form a very close bond together albeit still shy to get a bit closer, Pinkie Pie came in between the two quiet ponies and wrap her arms around them. "Marble Pie, you want to wish Big Mac a happy Hearth's Warming, don't you! And you too, right Big Mac?"

Marble Pie replied with a happy, "Mm-hm!" and Big Mac also replied with an equally happy, "Eeyup."

Happy for them, Pinkie Pie jumped off, leaving the two ponies to enjoy each others company…while gaining the courage to sit a bit closer to one another while Fluttershy looks on with happy pride for them being able to bond with them too.

Granny Smith sipped hot cocoa with Igneous and Cloudy, as she tried to use their traditional speak to say how much she had come to appreciate their friendship. "Eh, lemme see here, um, 'if thou ask-eth me, thou two art, eh, okay-eth in my book'."

The couple smiled at her kind efforts, they figured they should return the favor, and so Igneous attempted to use a country accent. "Yee-haw'." While it wasn’t the best impression, but it was the thought that truly counts.

Applejack ripped the paper of her gift that she had found earlier, and wasn't all too surprised to see it was a pile of rocks. Pinkie then whispered in her ear and Applejack nodded. Taking a stance, she used the same method the Pies used to create their Heart's Warming dolls and made a perfect statue of both the Pies and Apples together like one big family.

"Happy Hearth's Warming!"

"Happy Hearth's Warmin', Pinkie Pie."

The two hugged it out like family once more.

At the same time, Twilight, Spike, Kion, Sunset, Rafiki, and Makini all looked on very happy with how well the two holidays have blended together.

“Wow! I can’t believe that this is all happening.” Makini happily expressed.

“Well you better believe because it is happening.” Spike replied to assure that’s the case.

“You know what I think, Rafiki?” Makini asked her mentor while they both painted on seperate canvass to capture this wonderful and momentous occasion. “I think both Christmas and Hearth’s Warming put together celebrates the gift of the Circle of Life.

Her mentor smiled and agreed with her. “Yes, young Mjuzi. I could not have said it better myself.”

“Me neither.”

“Truer words have never been spoken.”

Both leaders of the Guard commented before a flash of light sparked inside the library drawing their along with Sunset’s attention. When they all rushed on over inside, they found something that sparked the unicorn’s attention. A neatly gift wrapped box with her name on it courtesy of Human Rarity sliding it inside.

Curious, she opened it and found herself looking at a new outfit along with a note placed alongside it. A light blue tank top, blue jeans, a new black leather jacket with orange stripes on the shoulder, shorter black boots with orange stripes on the heels with written words by Rarity herself on the note.

“Dear Sunset, Darling,

If you are reading this, then you now know the truth. We have just figured out that you are not Anon-a-Miss and none of the emails, texts, and tweets have been sent by you. Honestly there really isn't much to say other than we are so sorry that we were quick to accuse you like that. We should have taken the time to understand what was truly going before jumping to conclusions like that.

What we did was just wrong, mean, hurtful and very unfair to you considering you just getting into the holiday spirit and we had no excuse to mistreat you like that. At times like this we can only wish we could go back in time and take back those horrid, dreadful and regretful actions we took back then when the whole gossip drama erupted in flames.

Anyways, while we can't force upon you wanting to return to Canterlot High so soon, we can only ask of you to accept this gift as a token of our apology and hope that you'll someday return so that we can resume the friendship that we just started not too long ago. If you do, you know where to find us.

Signed with friendly love and kisses Rarity.

P.S. The sooner the better since the upcoming Friendship Games are right around the corner once winter break is over and school is back in session...Oh and of most importantly, beng able to reconsole with of course."

Sunser slowly lowered the letter down as she looked down at the select clothes Rarity in the other world had hand selected for her. Intially, unsure and still not ready to jump up at the opportunity, her expression turned into one of consideration while slowly and surely loving the outfit in her magical grasp.

To her, it really captures her current evolution from a once former antagonistic character to a reformed hero who is learning and fully grasping friendship like. And as of her recent accomplishments in this world, she sure has proved herself worthy of her redemption. She then moved to smile fondly of the outfit as she held it close to her heart feeling very touched and much appericated that she went through the effort to actually get her all of this even after what happened.

"Shwari! What just happened?" Makini asked in awe.

"Another Christmas Miracle." Twilight answered as she looked on very pleased to see that the day Sunset will make amends with the other girls back at Canterlot High very soon.

"Indeed it is, young alicorn, Indeed it is." Rafiki said feeling equally happy as well as the holidays have proven while it can bring out the worst inside but ultimately the best inside. A true, divine, pure quality that shines brighter than darkness anyday.

Episode 34: The Little Guy

Episode 34:

The Little Guy

One day at the biggest watering hole in the Pride Lands are the crocodiles all practicing and soaring with one another. Since word about Scar’s escape from prison is out, they are getting their fighting skills sharpened up so they can be prepared for whatever he has up on his mind next. Wherever that’s here today or another day, Makuu is personally making sure they train hard to perfection so they can be ready to defend themselves at a moment’s notice.

During one of their training sessions, two crocs moved to soar with each other under Makuu’s watch.

The two circled around each other menacingly before one of them finally made a move by using his tail to whack him away with great force. A move that is called “The Wide Tail Spin.”

“Now! While he’s down! Jaw vice!” Their leader barked as the attacker did just that. “Tail whip now!” He barked at the other crocodile who did just that too forcing the other crocodile to release his grip as he briefly reeled in pain.

While the crocs continued to carry out their sparing match, the Lion and Pony Guard arrived nearby having heard the commotion from there.

“Over here!” Ono called out to the others as Rainbow Dash moved to get a better look at what was happening in front of them.

“Crocodiles smack down at ten o’clock!”

“Ooh, which one do you think is going to win?” Bunga eagerly asked.

“I’d say the one who’s got that hold Makuu used on the old crocodile leader during his first Mashidano!” Pinkie replied while hoisting snacks in her hooves ready to watch the show with. “While the other croc is putting up a heck of a fight that other croc definitely got this in the bag, or better yet hard to stone victory in his claws.”

Both the Guard’s funniest both laughed together much to the other’s annoyance.

“Are they just fighting or sparing?” Applejack asked unable to tell if this is another dispute that got out of hoof.

"Hard to tell." Sunset remarked as she observed the scene as close as she can.

“I don’t know.” Fluttershy whimpered while shielding her eyes from the sight. “I’d rather not find out.”

Kion likewise wasn’t about to see to it that happens thinking they’re actually fighting for real. “I think we better break it up before someone gets hurt! Come on!”

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” Twilight quickly threw up a shield to stop Kion before he could rush on ahead to break it up.

“Ow!” Kion rubbed his head in pain after accidentally running head first into it. “Twilight! What are you doing?!”

“Sorry! But there’s really no need to intervene.”

“Why not?” He asked while Twilight works her magic and soothing the pain on his head.

“Because they’re just sparing, that’s why.” She gently explained.

“She’s right, Kion.” A blue gecko who happened to be nearby to hear their conversation said.

“Hey Hodari!” Beshte happily greeted the little gecko who landed on his snout.

“Hey Beshte! And…you too Fluttershy!” He awkwardly added to the overly excited pony trying to greet and gush all over him with her best friend Rainbow restraining her back.

“A gecko! So…cute!”

“Easy there, Fluttershy!”

“Anyways…So the crocodiles there are just um…practicing?”

“Yeah! They spare with each other to work their technique.”

“He’s right.” Ono admitted as he realized it too. “I forgot they were doing it today along with every day since our meeting with the other leaders.”

“That’s right!” He smiled to assure them that’s the case. “It’s the crocodile way!”

“Well at least that’s good to hear, I think.” Rarity said being the first to express her relief nothing is really getting out of hoof here.

Though on the last part she cringed when the previously ongoing sparing match ended when the crocodile that was previously giving his sparing partner trouble finished the match off by forcing him into a position he couldn’t break free from.

Makuu looked on pleased with what he saw but not fully satisfied as he saw there is room for much needed improvement.

“Very good. Now should you ever be in that position like him. There is one move you can do against your opponent. One that’ll force your opponent away from you after breaking free from his grasp. The Wide Tail Spin. Know what I’m talking about.” After a series of nods and shakes from their heads he then decided a demonstration is in order. “Show me for those who know.”

Most crocs who didn’t moved to try to demonstrate it by moving their tails around albeit ineffectively much to their leader’s annoyance.

“No! No! No! Swing your tail fast! Like this!” He demonstrated it by giving a quick and effective swift movement of his tail. “See?”

“Fast like this.” Hodari said to himself before trying it out himself only to stumble and fall over on his hippo friend’s snout.

“You okay?”

“What are you doing, darling?”

Both Beshte and Rarity asked.

“Yeah! That was the wide tail spin.” He replied. “Still working on it.” From behind Rainbow could barely keep a straight face without giggling to herself.

“You’ll get there.”

“Just takes practice.”

Both the Kindest of the Guard assured as he moved to climb up the nearby tree he was on.

“Maybe, but I’ll never be as good as a crocodile. They’re so big and strong I’m so…Tiny.”

“Well they are crocodiles.” Applejack pointed out.

"And kind of obvious." Sunset added.

“Where are you going with this?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Nothing expect…” he hesitated before honestly admitting. “I kinda wish to be a part of Makuu’s float. You know be like one of them.”

“You mean you a crocodile?!” Rainbow couldn’t keep it to herself and ended up laughing her heart out till she cried while floating on her back. It wasn’t until she calmed down until she saw the glares she was getting from her pony friends along with the hurt look on the gecko’s face did she realize it wasn’t a joke. “Oh, you’re serious?!”! Hodari nodded in response. “Look…” She floated down to try to handle it more nicely. “…I’m all for wanting to pursue your dreams but…I don’t think Makuu is going to see eye to eye with you there and for a good reason.”

“Why not?”

“Well for starters they’re crocodiles and you're a gecko so there is the size difference problem for starters which could go against your favor should something happen like if one of them…” To get her point across she quickly fetched a rock and a twig before dropping the former on the latter. “Oops. Accidentally crushed you. Know what I mean.” Fluttershy shuddered at the very thought and sight of that even happening.

“Makes sense to me.” Kyoga agreed and understood her analogy.

"Hard to beat logic." Sunset commented unable to say it better herself.

“I’d hate to say it partner but Rainbow Dash has a point. Especially since Makuu isn’t exactly a very reasonable croc to negotiate with in that there regard.” Applejack said with her two cents on the matter.

“So what? Are both saying it’s not possible for me to be apart of their float?” Hodari asked still having a hard time understanding of what they are trying to tell him.

“Hodari, darling…” Rarity stepped forward to try her best in reasoning with him. “…what both Applejack and Rainbow Dash are trying to say is that while dreams are possible not all of them are. Maybe in the dream realm but not everything is possible in the waking world.”

“But but…” He was now pleading with someone to see things from his side of things but no one not even Twilight, Fluttershy, Beshte, and Kion could say anything to back him up here.

“I’m sorry.” Twilight apologized with a sympathetic hoof on his chin. “But there are just some things that even my magic alone can’t do. Not all dreams can be achieved. While I admire your courage into wanting to pursue it not everyone Makuu included is going to see it that way.”

Just as Hodari took a moment to think about what the Lion and Pony Guard are trying to tell him the ground started rumbling quite a bit.

Both Ono and Rainbow flew up and managed to spot a panicking buffalo herd coming by heading towards where the crocodiles are still sparing.

“Hapana!”

“Incoming!”

Both leaders of the Guard were quick to see what’s going on and is about to happen.

“I see them!”

“Makuu! Incoming!”

Makuu turned his head towards them and managed to see the oncoming stampede headed their way. “Crocodiles! Get to higher ground!”

Every single crocodile was quick to stop their ongoing sparing sessions in order to climb up the nearby mountain so they can get to safety. Makuu made sure every single one one them made it up before following after them while the Lion and Pony Guard watched as the buffalo herd made it’s way by on the other side of the pathway.

Unfortunately for those on higher ground the nearby shaking of the ground the buffalo had caused during their stampede ended up causing part of the mountain from near the top to crumble.

“Oh no!”

“Hapana! The stampede is causing a rock slide!”

Both fliers stated in alarm.

“Hevi Kabisa”

“Look out!”

Both leaders reacted equally alarmed.

Already the rock slide was creating chaos as crocodiles are spreading no all around the area as they all try their hardest to avoid getting crushed and hurt by the flying rocks slamming down onto the ground with some scattering into the buffalo stampede.

Both Kion and Twilight wasted no time in delegating their teams into taking action before anymore damage can happen.

“Fuli, Ono, Applejack, Kyoga, Fluttershy calm down the buffalo!”

“On it!”

“You got it, Kion!”

“You got it partner!”

“We’ll stop them!”

“Okay.”

“Beshte, Pinkie, Rarity, Bunga, Sunset, Rainbow Dash, you’re with us!”

While heading out to deal with the rock slide, Beshte took the time to talk to Hodari for a moment before leaping into action. “Stay here, little guy.”

Twilight wasted no time in blasting the rocks into ashes alongside Kion and Sunset with their fiery fueled magic. Rainbow Dash, Beshte, and Bunga rushed over to help the crocodiles avoid the oncoming rocks while Rarity used her karate skills to kick and split the rocks away into smaller harmless pieces.

“Not on my watch, rocks!”! Pinkie fiercely shouted while using her party canon to blast the oncoming rocks into pieces.

“How does she…?” Rainbow was the first to ask rather baffled by what she just did with confetti alone.

“I don’t know!” Ono shrugged before directing her friends attention to the potential crisis at hoof.

While successful, unfortunately one of the rocks managed to trap one of the crocodiles when it landed on his tail leaving him unable to move and free himself.

Kion who just managed to fire off another blast at another rock was the first to notice this immediately. “Hold on croc, I’m coming.”

“I got this!” Makuu shouted already rushing to his aid by lifting the boulder trapping the crocodile allowing him to rush to safety.

But just before he could do anything else another boulder nobody saw coming managed to land right on one of Makuu’s limbs causing him to groan in pain when it happened.

Hodari having seen it from afar reacted in horrified shock. “Oh, no! Makuu!”

The leader of the crocodile was then found haven fallen on his uninvited side by the Lion and Pony Guard having just ensured the safety of his float rushed over to his side for aid.

“You okay?” Kion asked while using his magic to remove the boulder that landing on his right front limb.

“Are you injured?” Rarity asked as she examined the crushed limb.

Makuu was able to get up on his feet before looking on at the rest of the crocodiles who are all looking on silently wondering the same question.

“My float is safe. And that’s what’s important. Thanks for your help.” He replied with what any other good leader would say.

He then moved to regroup with the others who are waiting for him but not without wincing in pain when he tried to put weight on the injured leg. Pain that the sound of broken bones could be heard when it happened.

“I don’t know about the rest of you but that sure sounded like broken bones to me.” Pinkie said to the others in an audible whisper.

Sunset was quick to point out the obvious. "That's because it is Pinkie. He's clearly limbing in pain."

“Sure is.”

“Yep.”

Both Bunga and Applejack said in agreement. It doesn’t take trained ears to hear out broken bones after an injury had taken place, a serious injury to boot.

Seeing this was enough for Twilight to insist that he needs medical attention. “Easy, Makuu. Your leg took a serious blow back there.”

“I know what I’m doing.”

“I know. But I’m going to have insist on you sitting down for a much needed healing session.”

“Twilight… I am fine.” Makuu hissed with gritted teeth finding it a bit unnecessary as they make their on over towards the float.

The Princess remained firm in the matter. “Makuu, please! You have broken bones which can cause permanent damage if they are not treated immediately!”

Makuu huffed in response as he finds it rather undignified to be treated like this even if it’s her trying to ensure he remains in good health.

“Crocodiles, break’s over. Back to your sparing positions.” He ordered of them before reluctantly allowing the alicorn Princess work her magic on his injuries to ensure he has a speedy recovery going forward.

By then the rest of the Lion and Pony Guard have just regrouped with the others having just succeeded in their task of ensuring no more damage from the raging buffalo stampede has happened.

“Fuli, Applejack, Ono, Fluttershy, Kyoga, Cape buffalo okay?” Kion asked.

They all replied with positive results.

“Affirmative.”

“Between Fuli’s quick running circles and Applejack putting her lasso to quick work they were able to get them to slow down.”

“Which also helps that Fluttershy used her Stare on them before they could run into Kyoga’s magic barrier that could have startled the antelope into stampeding.”

Fluttershy meekly blushed in response as it is not something she really wants to make a habit of out it.

“Great.” Kion smiled with satisfaction. “Now that everyone is safe, let’s get back to our morning patrol.”

“Go on ahead. I’ll catch up with you later.” Twilight called out to the prince while working her magic on the crocodile leader’s leg. “Fluttershy…” She motioned her over to her. “…I need you to stick around and share your animal expertise here.” One look at the crocodile’s limb was enough to get the animal loving Pegasus on over.

Before Beshte could follow after the others Hodari called to him as he rushed to approach him. “Beshte! Beshte, wait. I got an idea.”

Seeing this is worth listening to, Beshte agreed to hear what he has to say. “Oh yeah…” He turned to Kion to make sure not to wait up for him. “You guys on ahead, I’ll catch up.”

“Okay, Beshte.”

After the Lion and Pony Guard had left, Beshte turned to hear the little guy out. “So what’s your idea, Hodari?”

“Well, Makuu is injured, which means that he is hurt, which means he might need some extra help right now, which means this is my big chance. I’m going to ask Makuu if I can join his float!”

While knowing that it is still a long shot, he truthfully could never find it in his heart to shoot it down, especially given his huge kindness. “Well, if being part of a croc float is what you always dreamed of, I say go for it.”

“I will.” He moved to self motivate himself into working the courage to do so. “Okay. You got this. You got this…” But he suddenly got cold feet. “Wait, Beshte. You know Makuu, you think you can introduce him to me.”

Beshte was more than happy to help him out there. “Sure.”

The two moved to approach him who is currently overseeing his float continue their sparing while both Twilight and Fluttershy tend to his injuries.

“Okay…” Twilight said while still working her healing magic while Fluttershy got to work wrapping up his injured limb. “…I just reduced your injury from a broken wrist to a mild sprain but you’re still going to have to wear this cast and keep your physical activity to a minimum for the next week.”

“Great.” He muttered with great annoyance. Given his position it’s going to be very hard to do so.

“At least be thankful that you’re going to be all right instead of having to step down from your position.” Fluttershy said somewhat sternly. “If it weren’t for Twilight, your limb would be still be broken or worse.”

“I know, Fluttershy and I am very grateful for you both for what you’re trying to do.” He asserted before giving a somewhat softened sigh. “It’s just a matter of being able to protect my float and keep each and every crocodile in shape, especially since Scar is still lurking around waiting to prey on whatever weakness I might have.”

“Understandable.” Twilight responded sympathetically to his personal worries. “I’ve got the Guard watching over the Pride Lands border into the Outlands as they carry out their patrol. I have my informants in the Outlands keeping me up to date in case something come’s up as discussed the other day. And we all have of the other Pride Landers on alert ready to call on us when needed.”

“In the meantime, you just need to focus on making sure your limb heals because we’re going to need it at 120% strength.” Fluttershy added.

Makuu arched an eyebrow. “120%?”

“The extra 20% is to ensure you’re completely healed.”

“And what Rainbow defines as being extra sure at least when it comes to boasting of how awesome she is.”

Makuu rolled his eyes. “Of course.”

Twilight just finished all she can do with her magic for the time being while Fluttershy finished wrapping up his cast. “But still the point still stands to ensure that you can properly and fully recover.”

“And we wouldn’t expect any less from anyone else.” Fluttershy further assured.

“True. True...” That whole talk was enough to get him to corporate with the two ponies for now. By then Beshte and Hodari approached them.

“Hey, uh, Makuu.” Beshte greeted.

“Beshte. He notices the gecko in front of him. “What’s that?”

“This is my friend, Hodari. And he has something he’d like to ask you.”

Makuu sighed in response to showcase he is clearly not in the mood for it and is barely tolerating it for the Guard's sake. “Make it quick. I’m busy.”

Hodari moved to step forward to pop the question while Fluttershy and Twilight watch on wondering how this is going to turn out. “Um, Makuu, sur. I thought if you might be hurt that you might need…” He started to fumble with his words again. “…If..if you give me a chance I could…that is…”

“Spit it out, gecko.”

“Could I join your float? I think I could really help.”

Makuu chuckled in response. “You? How would you be able to help a crocodile float?”

In response Hodari breaks out into a musical number all while singing to try to convince that hen is worth his time.

Give the Little Guy a Chance

From 0:10-2:28

During which some of the crocodiles danced and bobbed their heads to the beat along with Fluttershy and Beshte while Twilight tries her hardest to be supportive about all of it still knowing what Makuu is going to say at the end of the song. At one point he landed on Makuu’s snout who tried to shake him off of him to no avail before the gecko moved to jump off on his accord.

After he got done singing, Makuu and the crocodiles first reaction was to of course laugh in response much to the gecko’s disappointment.

“That’s very funny, Beshte. For a second there, I thought your gecko friend was serious.”

“It’s not a joke.” Beshte gently asserted with a shake of his head. “Can’t you just give Hodari a chance?”

Makuu seriously replied scoffing at the idea. “A tiny gecko in a crocodile float? Ridiculous!”

“But…but…” He desperately pleaded as the crocodile leader approached him to assert he is not interested.

“It’s not the crocodile way, gecko. Now get out of here before you get squished.” He quickly turned his back on him and nearly whipped him with his tail as a warning before walking off.

Saddened by his harsh rejection, Hodari ran off.

His Lion and Pony Guard friends took pity for him while looking on at Makuu frowning on his direction for how he handled it.

“Gee, Makuu. You didn’t have to hurt his feelings.”

“You could have at least been kind about it.”

“As far out as his dream may have been.”

Makuu rolled his eyes in response before walking off leaving the three friends to find and seek the gecko that ran off.

“Hodari, wait.”

“Where did you go?”

Both Beshte and Fluttershy called out while Twilight uses her magic to try to scan him out.

At the same time the skinks have managed to witness the whole scene from the nearby trees.

Njano laughed upon seeing what he saw. A gecko who wants to be a crocodile. Now that’s funny!”

“Funny or genius?” His partner returned with sinister intent as she briefly locked eyes in what she sees as a prize in front of them.”

Her partner was even more confused. “Uh, pretty sure it’s funny.”

“Makuu’s not the only crocodile around.” Shpuavu reminded. “Perhaps Kiburi would like to meet with that gecko.”

“He would?”

“A gecko that’s friends with the Lion and Pony Guard could be a useful addition to his float. And it could cause havoc in the Pride Lands.”

“Ooh!” Now Njano sees where Shupavu is getting at. “I know who would like that!”

“Scar!”

“And that is something you are both correct in that regard, skinks.” Said individual appeared over their heads lounging on a higher branch with his face wreathed in the shadows. “And you both know what to do, right?”

“Yep.”

“Of course.”

Scar slinked back into the shadows of the deep leaf covered branches before disappearing.

“Come on, let’s go get that gecko.”

At the same time the three friends of his are still all trying to find him with no luck.

“Hey, Hodari?”

“Where did you go?”

“Hodari?”

Just then Rainbow and Ono came flying on towards as something urgent had come up in the Pride Lands again.

“Beshte! Fluttershy! Twilight!”

“The galagos are in trouble!”

That got their immediate attention.

“Oh, no!

“Oh my!”

Before heading on out Fluttershy remembered what they were just doing. “But what about Hodari?”

“He’ll be fine. We’ll deal with him after we take care this more urgent matter.” The alicorn assured.

“Okay.” She said before before whisked away by her speedy friend.

“Come on! Animals are in danger!”

“Okay!”

“Lead the way!”

If only that emergency hadn’t happened then they would have a much easier time talking to the distraught gecko who is now hearing the sounds of rustling bushes surrounding him.

“Who’s there?!” Hodari quickly took up a defensive stance. “Don’t make me use my crocodile moves.” He tried to give a demonstration only to accidentally trip himself while doing so.

“Relax, gecko.” Shupavu assured while emerging from the bushes alongside Njano. “We come in peace. Though I couldn’t help but overhear….Makuu doesn’t want you in his float.”

Hodari didn’t even deny that it happened. “Yeah, I don’t blame him. A gecko in a crocodile float is ridiculous. Maybe I should just forget it.”

“I wouldn’t give up so easy if I were you.” Shupavu said otherwise.

Hodari was now confused. “Why not?”

“Makuu doesn’t have the only float around, you know.” She explained. “In fact, I know a croc who would love to have you in his float.”

Hodari’s previously downcast mood turned into one of hopeful interest. “You do? Who would?”

“Sure! He knows how much a bright young gecko has to offer. You wanna meet him?”

Hodari was more than happy to take her up on that offer. “Sure!”

With that Shupavu turned to her partner with that confirmation. “Njano, why don’t you go on ahead. Tell Kiburi what a special candidate we have for his float.”

“Good idea.” Njano proceeded to do just that while Shupavu walks by Hodari’s side as they make their way on over to the Outlands.

“Come on, Hodari. Let’s go.”

Meanwhile, Twilight, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Beshte, and Ono all regrouped with the rest of the Guard as they all look on at the danger in the form of a broken tree.

“Help! Help!” Laini cried out from inside.

“We came as fast as we could!”

“Are the galagoes all right?”

Both Twilight and Fluttershy asked as soon as they arrived.

“They’re fine, but Laini and two other galagoes are stuck under that tree hollow.” Kion explained.

"And they are not making coming out very easy on account they keep panicking non-stop." Sunset added in irritation as she blew the smoke from her horn.

“Not for long.” Beshte was quick to tackle this alongside Twilight and Fluttershy. “Twenty Kiboko!”

Thanks to Beshte using his upper body strength with Twilight assisting in using her magic gently, Fluttershy was able to get under and pull the trapped galagoes out of the tree hollow alongside Bunga.

“Come on out of there, galay-Lagos?”

“It’s okay! Were we got you! You’re safe now!”

Once they were out of there, two out of three of the galagoes were very happy and relieved to be free once again.

“Yay! We’re free! Woo-hoo!”

“Where’s Laini?” Bunga asked as he once more took a reach and peek inside the tree hollow in order to find her. He ended up reaching something all right. Another bug that is. “You’re not a galago.” He gulped and crunched it up in one bite.

“Seriously?!” Rarity had to run aside to avoid gagging at the sight.

“Bunga, focus!” Fuli sternly scolded before reaching inside the tree hollow herself and successfully managed to retrieve the galago leader herself who quickly expressed her gratitude.

“Whoo! We’re free! Thank you, Lion and Pony Guard!”

“No problem, Laini!”

“We’re very happy it help if it means ensuring that you all of those poor galagoes are okay.”

“It’s what we do.”

Both the kindest of the bunch along with one of the Fastest of the bunch returned.

With the danger passed, Beshte and Twilight put the tree hollow down while the galagoes went on their merry way.

Sunset grumbled in response with how well they took the alicorn's more gentle approach. "Showoff."

“All right Lion and Pony Guard! Let’s get back to our morning patrol.” Kion said with their work here done for now.

“See ya! Watch out for falling trees!” Pinkie happily called out to them before they all set out once more.

Inside the Outlands, the banished crocodile float’s leader has just been briefed with the oncoming arrival of the eager gecko seeking to join his float by Njano. Said area happens to have a small watering hole that’s smaller than Makuu’s in the Pride Lands but just enough to get them through the dry season.

Naturally the crocs there have gotten all grumpier and meaner than Makuu on a bad day but there’s no denying that they deserved it for attempting to off the king and the princesses along with being very ungrateful towards their reasonable handling big the situation to at least be able to accommodate their watering needs during the dry season.

“Trust me. This guy is gonna be great for your float! He knows all about Makuu and his crocs. And all of their fighting techniques.”

So far, Kiburi isn’t impressed. “So do I. But what good does that do for me if the Lion and Pony Guard especially Twilight won’t let me into the Pride Lands?”

“This guy is a friend of the Lion and Pony Guard.” Njano replied. “I’ll be he can help to get past ‘em including Twilight.”

Now Kiburi was impressed. “A crocodile that’s friends with the Lion and Pony Guard? Interesting.”

“And here is.”

Both Shupavu and Hodari had just arrived.

Now Kiburi was confused at the size of the friend he is now dealing with. “I thought you said he was a crocodile.”

Njano shook his head in response. “No, you said it. Trust me. You can totally use this guy to take down Makuu.”

None of the less, it is still something worth pursing if it means a chance to get what he wants. So he moved to approach the gecko ready to hear him out. “So, Njano tells you want to be a part of my float?”

“It’s my dream!”

He moved to start singing to him only to be interrupted on the first verse when Kiburi raised a claw up to get him to stop.

“Who! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! No singing! If you wanna be a crocodile, you have to show me you can fight.”

Could this be true? Hodari thought to himself. “You mean…a traditional crocodile initiation spar?” He asked.

“That’s right.” He nodded when one of the crocodiles that helped tried to assassinate both Simba and Celestia approaches him while emerging from the water. “Tamaka will be your sparing partner.”

Said crocodile growled in an intimidating matter.

But even still Hodari remained self-assured that he can take him. “You got this! You got this!” He said to himself while doing a good luck dance as he ready’s himself for this.

Before moving to circle around the two along with the rest of his float, Kiburi whispered to Tamaka. “Let the little guy win.” Once the two had took their positions at the rock Hodari was standing on they were ready to throw down. “Ready?” Both nodded. “Begin.”

Hodari moved to carry out his best move. “Wide tail spin! He gave his tail a good whip with good form and without tripping up himself to connect on his opponent’s arm.

Tamaka didn’t react as said attack was a mere slap on the wrist. But even so given that Kiburi looked on expecting him to win with a firm nod upon glancing back at him he had to make it look convincing.

“Ow, the agony! You have beaten me!” He fell flat on his stomach before closing his eyes to further sell it, even though good eyes could tell it’s overly dramatic acting that Rarity would put to shame any day.

And yet it was still enough to convince Hodari that he actually managed to pull it off. “Wow! I must be stronger than I thought. All right! Who’s next?”

Kiburi was quick to put that idea to rest. “Okay. That’s enough, Hodari, you have won the initiation spar.”

“Really? Really? No wait, really?” Hodari expressed now bursting with enthusiasm feeling his dream his finally coming true.

“Good job, gecko. You are now part of my float.”

Hodari now happier then ever did a victory dance. “I’m a crocodile! Who’s a crocodile! I’m a crocodile!” He stopped when he saw the two crocs glaring at him. “Uh…you know? Sort of.”

Kiburi rolled his eyes in annoyance and sighed before continuing the act. “So Njano tells me you’re friends with the Lion and Pony Guard?” Kiburi inquired.

“Oh yeah! Especially Beshte! He’s the best!”

“Wow.” Kiburi said. “Maybe we’ll run into them and you can say hello?”

“Where are you going?” Hodari asked upon seeing that he and is float are ready to set out there.

“To the Pride Lands.” He answered while taking g lead once more. “I’m tired of this mud. We’re going to a real watering hole.”

While confused as he is unaware that he was banished here he still none of the less joined them just pleased that Kiburi did what Makuu wouldn’t do. Allow him to fulfill his dream. Even though he doesn’t really mean it deep down and it’s just to get information to use against his rival.

Elsewhere in the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard resumed their patrol where Beshte and Fluttershy are both looking on worried and feeling bad for Hodari since they couldn’t spare the time to comfort him after Makuu coldly rejected him.

“Beshte, Fluttershy, are you both okay?” Kion asked concerned for his friends.

“Yeah. You’re being rather quieter than usual.” Rainbow added equally concerned as both she and Kion walked/flew side by side together.

“Yeah. I just feel bad about Hodari.” Beshte replied.

“He tried to join Makuu’s float?!” Applejack asked knowing exactly what this all about.

“Yeah. It was his dream and I told him to for it, and they laughed at him.”

“Well, yeah!” Fuli replied not surprised that would happen. “They’re crocodiles. What did he expect? Burst out into a song hoping it’ll convince them?”

“Even knowing that Makuu isn’t one of those guys that was going to be easily convinced.” Rainbow added. “We did try to tell him.”

“But they at least could have had the heart not to make him feel bad or at least humor him about it.” Fluttershy replied feeling equally bad for the lost gecko. “Why does Makuu have to be so mean to everyone even when they are trying to help him?” She then expressed rather put off by his attitude earlier.

“I don’t know.” Twilight replied. “Probably because he’s been used to being brute and ruthless even when Pua was in charge. Having just been reformed doesn’t mean he’ll change his personality overnight as easy as switching sides.”

“But how was it easy for you?”

“Because I’ve been used to being a good pony growing up unlike Makuu even with a taste of blood here and there. Figuratively speaking.”‘ She quickly added before her and Ono’s blood could run cold. “But point being, it’s not yours nor Beshte’s fault. You both were just trying to be good friends. You both tried to help give Hodari a chance to pursue his dreams even if they weren’t completely possible.”

“Twilight’s right." Sunset agreed. “You both did everything you could do to help him out. And in my case even though I'm now a better pony, my anger issues didn't go away overnight the day even after I turned over a new leaf. And from what I'm seeing at least Makuu is making progress somewhat.”

“I know. But he just seemed so sad.” Beshte said still downcast with what had happened.

“With who knows where he has wandered off to.” Fluttershy added.

Before any of them could continue being sympathetic to their plight, Ono and Rainbow both quick caught something up ahead. Something alarming.

“Hapana! Everyone! Everyone! Kiburi and his crocs! They’re back in the Pride Lands!”

“Took them long enough to work the courage to come back here if you ask me.”

Without another word the Lion and Pony Guard set out to stop them before anything else could happen.

“To the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

In quick time, the Lion and Pony Guard were able to intercept them before any damage could incur.

“Kiburi!”

“Why are you back in the Pride Lands?!”

Both leaders of the Guard demanded upon meeting face to face with him for the first time since he was banished.

“Just visiting. Saying hello to some old friends.”

“You don’t have friends here!” Fuli angrily reminded not caring for his attempted pleasantries. “Not even the Guard’s Kindest are your friends!”

“Speaking of friends, have you met the newest member of my float?

His fellow crocs stepped aside so they can show them who just joined them. It was none other than Hodari looking on proud and happy yet oblivious that they’re evil crocs at the same time much to the Guard’s surprise. Especially Beshte and Fluttershy.

“Hodari?”

“Oh, hey Beshte! Look, I made it with the crocs now!” He happily greeted while standing by Kiburi’s side.

“But…but…”

“You can’t be.”

“See? Hodari’s our friend, he’s your friend too. So doesn’t that make us all friends?”

“No way!” Bunga asserted but then got confused. “Wait, it doesn’t right?”

Sunset looked on confused yet blankly. "Am I seeing this correctly." She asked Pinkie.

“Um, given we’re dealing with mean crocs that we’re banished for an attempt to fatally ambush King Simba and Princess Celestia who convinced our gecko friend to join them, I’m going to have to go ahead and say, no here.” Pinkie answered while still looking on confused.

“Good call.” Kyoga commended.

“Enough said, if you’ll just step aside…” Kiburi said while trying to press forward ahead deeper into the Pride Lands.

But Kion still wasn’t about to let him by. “I really mean it, Kiburi! You and your crocs need to leave the Pride Lands, now!”

“But…”

Twilight teleported and appeared right behind him with black tentacles appearing behind him along with having her eyes glow white.

“Remember me?”

Kiburi’s face turned pale white with horrified shock along with his jaw dropping at the effortless intimidation from the Princess. And that was enough to get the arrogant croc to turn around and leave.

“Kiburi…?” Tamaka spoke confused.

“Float, Follow me.” He ordered before he and the others minus Hodari did as they were told.

“Wh…What’s going on here? Hey!” He desperately called out to them to no avail still not understanding why the Lion and along Guard are treating them like enemies.

“Beshte, Fluttershy, make sure Hodari is okay.” Twilight said to them.

“Now let’s go make sure Kiburi and his float really does leave the Pride Lands.” Kion then said before leading everyone else after them to make sure of that.

After they had left, Beshte and Fluttershy wasted no time in doing so.

“Hodari…are you okay?”

“What are you doing with Kiburi and his crocs?”

“Didn’t you hear, Kiburi? I’m part of his float now. Why did you chase them away?”

“Because King Simba and Princess Celestia banished them to the Outlands for trying after they tried to take them down. That’s why.”

“They’re bad guys, Hodari.”

Hodari however didn’t see it that way. “No! Kiburi was nice to me and we were just looking for water!”

“Hodari, you gotta trust us on this!” Beshte implored of him who is still not listening to reason here.

“But you said I should join a crocodile float. Now that I did, you’re telling me I’m a bad guy?”

“I’m not saying you’re bad…” Beshte tried to explain before being cut off mid-sentence.

“Yes you are! You said I should follow my dreams and I did…”

“But Kiburi is not your friend!” Fluttershy asserted. “He’s just using you! And he’ll drop the nice guy act when you’ve no longer served his purpose!”

“Is he? Is he really? Or maybe it’s because you never gave him a chance to fit in like you helped give me a chance to try to pursue my dream. Maybe you’re not my friend after all. Both of you.”

Fluttershy gasped as tears fell from her eyes as Hodari moved to run away from them again despite Beshte calling out to him with nothing more than speaking with a kind heart.

“No! Hodari! Wait!” He called out whole only being able to look on with sorrow for the misguidance he was given from other allies and enemies alike.

Fluttershy had continued sobbing with only her hippo friends comfort as Hodari had already gotten away with clear intent in regrouping with Kiburi and his float.

Said float has now managed to retreat to the Outlands again.

“I thought you said the gecko was going to get us past the Lion and Pony Guard, Kiburi.” Tamaka commented once they were sure said protectors of the Pride Lands and Equestria have backed off pursing them for trespassing.

“At least he stalled ‘em. They looked confused.” Nduli commented though that wasn’t really the case.

“No.” Kiburi shook his head against it. “We just have to move fast and take down Makuu before the Lion and Pony Guard even know we’re in the Pride Lands.”

“But what about that purple alicorn pony?” Nduli pointed out. “With her around she’ll stare down deep into your soul before you can get there.”

“Not to worry my dim witted comrade.” Starlight’s voice spoke to them as she suddenly appeared before them looking deviously with her equally devilish smirk and sky blue colored horn charged with hot magic. “I’ll take care of Twilight.”

She then teleported away just when Hodari managed to regroup with them.

“Kiburi! Crocs! I’m back!”

“Hodari? We thought maybe you decided to stay with your Lion and Pony Guard friends.”

“They’re not my friends anymore. I’m with your float now.”

“Ooh. Like that’s going to do us any good.” Tamaka commented.

Kiburi remained sure they still have something they can work with here. “It might. Watch.” Turning back to the blue gecko in a friendly tone. “Hodari, you have so many crocodile moves. You got to tell us everything you learned from Makuu’s float.”

Hodari was more than happy to share. “Oh, wow! There is so much! You should see the new moves they’re working on.” He attempted to demonstrate one only to trip and fall on his tail. “Like…the Wide Tail Spin. Most of the crocs can’t do it as good as me. Oh, and Makuu has been doing this crazy new move…” He wiggled his tail as a determination that he could do no problem. “…but I don’t think he can that move. His front leg is hurt pretty bad.” Kiburi eyes widen with interest upon hearing that particular detail. “Oh, oh, and there’s this new move, too!” He demonstrates a back flip. “But I don’t think he can do that one.”

“Makuu’s hurt?” Kiburi smirked seeing potential at preying at his vulnerability. “This will definitely be useful.”

“Useful? For what?” Hodari asked not quite understanding the float’s leader true intent behind it.

“Oh, you’ll see.” Now Hodari is unsure and uneasy by his dark reply but wasn’t sure of what he meant by that.

Elsewhere, the Lion and Pony Guard have wasted no time in rushing over to the nearby watering hole where Makuu and his float are located so they can alert him of what they just encountered.

“Makuu!” Twilight called out to him while arriving.

“Twilight. Kion. What’s going on this time?”

“We thought that you should know we saw Kiburi and his float headed your way earlier.” Kion reported.

Hearing his name was enough to spark a growl from the crocodile leader. “Kiburi? Ugh.”

“I know.” Twilight understands and shares his disgust for the crocodile too. “We chased them back into the Outlands, but they might be back.”

“I can handle Kiburi if I need to.” He lifts up his broken leg only for the bones to crackle once more causing him to grunt in pain again.

“Not so sure about that.” Fuli whispered to the others very doubtful he can with the injury he has now.

“Me neither.” Rarity shook her head while cringing in disgust after hearing the sound itself.

“And Hodari’s with Kiburi now.” Beshte added. “I wouldn’t want him to get hurt.”

“Hodari? Who’s he?”

“You know, little gecko, about yeah high.” Bunga lifted his arm to up to up his thighs.

“The one who tried to join your float but laughed at him in response.”’ Pinkie added while showing him a recorded replay of said events through a theater camera of him and his crocs doing just that.

Everyone briefly looked on wondering where and how she even managed to do that.

“How does she…?” Ono whispered to Sunset.

“I don’t know.” She simply shrugged in response.

“Oh, that little Guy.” Makuu said now remembering what he did back then. “If he wants to be with crocodiles, he’ll have to take his chances.”

“But what if he needs our help?!” Fluttershy asked in worried anger.

“If he needs it feel free that is if he is still alive which I would be amazed if that were the case.” He replied indifferent as always much to the animal lover boiling anger.

“I’d think you ought to since it is the least you can for being so mean and hurtful to him earlier.” She furiously retorted with her Stare. “I mean sure it’s out there to want to join a crocodile float but he didn’t deserve to be laughed off. And you know what, if you had just had the heart to be nice to him about it, he’d still be here and he wouldn’t have ever joined Kiburi who is by the way planning on coming back here to take you out while hurt. So take that into consideration when you are unable to defend yourself, Makuu!”

While everyone else was shocked and surprised by her outburst, Makuu didn’t even blink or show any intimidation in response. “You done?”

“Yes.” She grunted in frustration upon seeing it has no effect on him anymore.

“Anyways…we can stick around in case Kiburi comes back.”’ Kion offered after getting over his shock.

“We don’t need your help?!” Makuu stubbornly refused despite the fact that it would be very useful to him now. “We crocs can take care of ourselves.”

Both Rainbow and Applejack had to hold Fluttershy back to keep her from trying to tear him a new one for his attitude.

“Easy there, partner!”

“No! Let me at him!”

“Fluttershy! Forget it! He’s not worth it.” Rainbow then muttered to herself. “Even if he is asking for it.”

With that aside…

“Okay.”

“If you say so.”

Both leaders relented to his wishes before leading the team away having decided that it’s not worth arguing about.

As they all left, Kiburi and his float watched on along with Starlight and Hodari just patiently waiting for them to leave before taking their chance to pounce on their prey.

“Oh, Makuu…” Starlight smugly remarks at his shortsightedness “…if only you truly understood what your odds are.” She chuckled darkly. “Scar was right. Some things never change.”

“They sure don’t.” Kiburi agreed. “We’ll give the Lion and Pony Guard time to move off. Then it’s payback time.”

“Payback time? I thought we were just going to get water.” Hodari returned with his uneasiness about all of this increasing with every passing second.

“Oh, don’t worry.” He falsely assured as he turned to face him. “We’ll get the water. And the watering hole.” Seeing that dark smile had Hodari nervously licking his lips and gulping in response.

Now he is beginning to feel he is on the wrong side of things as Kiburi is making it clear he wants more than what he claims to seek. And it is not good.

A fair distance away, the Lion and Pony Guard have come to stop to make Fluttershy has calmed herself down enough.

“You okay, darling?” Rarity asked her who is still restrained by both Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

“No.”

“Right…of course you’re not…still.” Rarity apologetically replied for asking.

Knowing Makuu best, Twilight moved to approach her the best way she could. “I know he is still frustrating to deal with and I’m sorry that he’s been a thorn in your wing. But I do promise you that we are still going to come to his aid whether he wants it or not.”

“But what about Hodari? If he’s still hanging out with Kiburi, he might get hurt, or worse…”

“That I’m sure neither of those are going to happen and do you know why? Because Kiburi has a bigger prize on his even shorter sighted mind. Killing Makuu and taking over his watering hole.”

“Speaking of said crocs…” Rainbow commented as she and Ono got a good look at the watering hole. “…they’ve just returned and made this way on over there already!”

“And the gecko is still alive!” Ono added as he scanned the fight that has just begun.

While relieved, dealing with Kiburi and his float is still their primary concern.

“Which means we need to get on over there!” Kion stated seriously as he and Twilight got ready to lead their team on over there.

But suddenly a bright blue blast of magic suddenly struck right in between them, forcing them to split apart.

“You could do that…or I take you all out on the spot!” The light purple colored unicorn spoke to them while levitating to stay afloat.

“Starlight!”

“What are you doing here?!”

“Well let’s see…” Starlight crossed her arms and tapped her chin with her hoof. “…Kiburi and his crocs are taking on Makuu and his float while Makuu is injured, there’s a million dollar opportunity to take you out right now…” She then snapped. “…what do you think I’m doing here?!”

“Here on Scar’s behalf, that’s why!” Twilight spoke as she flared her horn up and spread out her wings. “And I know full well that you’re the only one brave enough to challenge me to keep me away from helping Makuu and his float.”

“Aww, how cute that you were able to figure it out right away. Too bad it’s going to do very little to help you out!” She worked up her magic to fire another hormone right at Twilight who swiftly dodged and redirected it back at her.

In retaliation, she floated over to engage in a dead lock battle with the alicorn.

“Twilight!” Kion called out to her ready to rush over to jump into the fray.

“Forget about me!” Twilight insisted that she can handle this on her own. “Go save Makuu and his float!”

“No!” Kion asserted otherwise while flying over to ram into the unicorn by her side causing her to grunt in pain when it happened as she tumbled across the dirt.

“Lion and Pony Guard! Go! Save Makuu and his float!” He ordered of the others who wasted no time in using the distraction to head on over there. “I’ll help Twilight take care of Starlight!”

Twilight turned to Kion finding his assertiveness admirable as he makes it clear he is not letting her handle this on her own. After sharing a nod together to let each other that they are in this together they both spread out their wings once before taking flight against the unicorn who has just recovered from the impact ready to resume their fight.

Back at the watering hole, the crocs wasted no time into going into wrestling it out.

One of the crocs attempted to take out Tamaka using the Wide Tail Spin, only for him to be able to counter it by grabbing it and returning a quick whip back at him right to the face.

“Ha!” He smugly smiled. “The little gecko was right!”

“Ha!” Nduli equally smug remark after taking out another one of his opponents. “We know all your moves!”

All while Hodari watched on in shock at what is happening right now as it is clear to him they want to take over the watering hole with brute force rather than the simple friendly get together he initially thought it would be.

Kiburi after taking down down another crocodile by throwing him aside into the mud, his eyes were now targeted on Makuu, ready to take him down while he still can.

“Kiburi, only brave enough to challenge me when I’m hurt?”

“Your days of leadership are over, Makuu.”

Kiburi charged at him the second Makuu tried to only to be held back by his injury thus allowing the former to wrestle and knock him down to the ground.

“Kiburi! Stop!” Hodari called out to him just when he was moving to advance on him. “You can’t just attack Makuu! You have to call for a mashindano to challenge his leadership. It’s then crocodile way.”

“The crocodile way?!” Kiburi scoffed. “Don’t tell me about the crocodile way, gecko.”

For good measure he swiftly returned the Wide Tail Spin to bat him away to a nearby tree. It was there the truth that Beshte and Fluttershy were trying to tell him was clear now. Kiburi and his float are truly bad guys and he had just unwittingly helped provide them means to defeat the good guys.

“The little gecko is right, Kiburi.” Makuu pointed out not taking kindly to what he just did.

Not that Kiburi even cared. “So? Once I’m leader, the crocodile way will be whatever I say it is!” He continued to pounce and wrestle him while still continuing to have the upper hand on Makuu.

“Oh, no!” Hodari gasped in horror. “This is all my fault!”

Despite his best efforts, his leg injury was too much for him to be able counter Kiburi’s attacks.

And that’s when the Lion and Pony Guard arrived.

“Kiburi! That’s enough!” Applejack called out with her lasso quickly wrapping itself the guy’s snout.

“This isn’t your fight, Lion and Pony Guard!”

“It is now!” Rainbow stated before rushing over to charge at him as fast as she could fly on over to him delivering the hardest punch she’s got on him with Sunset being quick to follow after her. “And this isn’t your watering hole! To the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

The rest of the Lion and Pony Guard followed suit as even the Kindest of the bunch got in on the action.

At the same time, both Twilight and Kion are still squaring off with Starlight who is equally determined to get payback at them both.

She traded and dodged magical blasts aimed at her by both the prince and princess before making a charge at Twilight She continued firing blasts at her who moved to counter each and every one of them before connecting a blast against her to force her back.

Kion then flew over with a growl as he bared his teeth and claws right at her by swiping his claws at her face She barely dodged the scratch with the only causality being a slice of her and being slashed off. She tumbled to the side before charging back to tackle him. They tumbled across the ground before Starlight moved to fire a blast of magic that sent Kion flying backward and slamming into a nearby tree which cracked and fell apart upon impact.

With her eyes back on Twilight, she quickly moved to rush over to challenge the alicorn again who likewise charged back at her.

The two traded blast each other on equal footing before Twilight moved to increase the intensity of her magic to force Starlight on the defense.

Then Kion moved to charge and fire off a blast of his own which sent Starlight flying backward into another tree which broke upon impact.

Even with the hits she’s endured, she is still determined to try to win and ensure they can’t help Makuu long enough for Kiburi to defeat him before releasing another yell before charging again.

Back at the watering hole, the crocs battle still drags on with teeth, claws, and hooves all at each other. At that point the Lion and Pony Guard have made progress against their opponents.

Both Fuli and Rarity wasted no time in saving the croc Tamaka had on the ropes with a well-timed set of karate moves followed by a fast jump on the croc’s head leaving him to eat mud because of it.

“Take that!”

“Huwezi!”

Ono let out a charge and yell while swooping down to peck at another crocodile having his opponent on the ropes followed by both Bunga and Pinkie leaping onto his body and tackling him into an unbreakable pin.

“Zuka Zama!”

“Pinkie Power!”

Both Beshte and Applejack charged together as they plowed through the two crocs that tried to come at them. With a powerful grip of her lasso, Applejack was able to whip it into having the croc caught in it to crash into the croc that Beshte had knocked away, causing them both to crash into the tree that Hodari was sent to.

Hodari fell but was caught by Fluttershy with her own two front hooves. “Wow, thanks!”

“You’re welcome!” She sweetly replied with a smile much to his surprise.

“Hodari? Are you okay?” Beshte asked while approaching him. “We were really worried about you.”

“I’m still your buddy even after I joined the bad guys?!” Hodari asked very surprised to see that neither both Beshte and Fluttershy hold what he last said to them.

“You were never a bad guy, Hodari.”

“You were just led astray by others pretending to be your friend. And you’ll always be our friend.”

“To the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end.”

Both assured that all is forgiven.

At the same time, Rainbow and Sunset are both still sparing with Kiburi and has managed to force the exiled croc on the defense and is even landing punches and magical blows on his face.

“Give it up, Kiburi!”

“Never!”

To prove it he quickly moved to the sideman and gave Rainbow a tail whip that sent her flying away and screaming in pain while another croc knocked Sunset to the side to keep her from further intervening against his leader.

Said leader quickly took the opportunity to resume his battle with Makuu along with continuing to dominate him by pinning him to the ground.

“Kiburi!” Kyoga shouted while finishing off dealing with one of his crocodiles. “Let Makuu, go!”

“You make me!”

Kyoga moved to make a charge at him only to be knocked aside by Tamaka who is still not out of the fight yet.

“Ha! Ha! Take that three legs!”

Kyoga growled before baring her teeth and claws against him as magic fired up in her palms already done with showing restraint with these guys. She made quick work with the crocs slashing and blasting every one that tries to gain up on her along with Sunset with the latter already getting riled up with their unrelenting viciousness against them.

But that was enough for Kiburi to resume his unchallenged duel with Makuu. “It’s just you and me!”

With everyone else too busy and caught up with their duels including both Kion and Twilight who both now are relentlessly landing effective blows on Starlight from nearby, Hodari sees that it is up to him to come to Makuu’s rescue. While he’s in no position to help him given the way he treated him earlier, it’s still the right thing to do. Especially since he ended up providing Kiburi the means to take him down.

“Beshte! Fluttershy! We have to help Makuu!”

“Hop on!” Fluttershy allowed him to ride on her before taking flight on over there while Beshte followed after them to ensure they can get there unchallenged.

“Just get me close so I can land on Kiburi’s snout. I got an idea.”

“Got it!”

From Beshte plowing every crocodile trying to come their way along with Fluttershy staring down and swiftly dodging every crocodile that tries to do the same to her, the latter was able to send Hodari on a flying path onto Kiburi’s snout.

Kiburi got distracted as he finds himself unable to shake him off. “Get off me, gecko!”

“Makuu!” Hodari called down to him. “Use the wide tail spin!” Makuu managed to gain the strength to force his antagonistic rival off of him. “Now!” He shouted while leaping off so he’s out of harm’s way when he did what he told him to do. And before Kiburi realized it, he was hit with a powerful hit with the backlash causing him to literally eat mud as he tumbled across said mud towards the other defeated crocodiles. “You did it!”

As if that wasn't bad enough for Kiburi, he winds eating mud again when she fired another blast right in his face courtesy of a pie tin smacking him right on the snout followed by a scorching blast of magic to the face by Sunset as a penance for what he just did today, all while on the verge of nearly blowing her stack.

At the same time, both Twilight and Kion have just got done dealing with Starlight as she is too overwhelmed by the double team up to the point she ended up eating mud too, literally courtesy of a simple blast of magic and swipe of claws to the chest and face.

“Time for you to go back to the Outlands, Kiburi!”

“And time for you to go away from Equestria too, Starlight!”

Both leaders of the Guard told them.

“This isn’t over, Makuu!”

“And I will be back and coming after you again, Twilight!”

Both Kiburi and Starlight defiantly stated.

“It is now!”

“And you will never prevail no matter what happens next!”

Starlight teleported herself away in time before Kiburi and his followers were all sent flying back into the Outlands when Kion unleashed his Roar against them.

"Good riddance." Sunset remarked feeling satisifed as she blew the smoke off of her horn after enduring the most vicious foe to date.

Hodari watched on proudly as he managed to become the hero of the day who despite his recent mistakes still remained good at heart to prove his worth and pulled through in the end when it really mattered.

Seeing what he did today was enough to get Makuu to reconsider what he said and did earlier as not only did that help him win a fight against his favor but also saved his life.

“Hodari, right?” He asked while approaching him.

“Yep! That’s me!”

“That was a very brave thing you did back there.” He complimented.

“Really?”

“Yes.” He said with a proud smile. “You have the heart of a true crocodile. If you still want to, you’re welcome to join my float.”

Hearing that left the little gecko astonished and left speechless in response. “Me? Me, on your…”

“Don’t make me regret it!” He sternly warned.

Getting the message, he moved to speak more clearly as he replied. “Yes Makuu, that would be the best thing ever!”

“Very well…” Moving to the center of the gathering so he can make it official. “Crocodiles, welcome Hodari. The honorary crocodile.”

The crocodiles all chanted his name while the Lion and Pony Guard all watched on proudly as Hodari is honored and praised for his heroism along with getting to be achieve his dream of finally becoming one of them.

“Hard to believe that this is actually happening.” Rainbow whispered to Rarity.

“I know, but he’s certainly earned it if I do say so myself.”

“Even though he’s not really a crocodile?” Rainbow asked still a little skeptic at the idea itself.

“Yes. And let’s just leave it that and let him have this, darling because I have a very good feeling they’ll get along swimmingly together now.” She giggled to herself along with a half and half who did and didn’t find it funny.

At the same time both Scar and Starlight watched over from the tall mountain tops with nothing but a look of calculated patience. The former moved to read another scroll he managed to retrieve during the distraction before allowing Starlight to read it himself before they teleported away from the scene.

Even with their minions near home still struggling, they still have means and ways to achieve victory, no matter what happens. The war is still going on, and is still going strong for them.

Author's Note

Hear this episode with the holiday break over we are back to work with the crocodiles now training and preparing themselves for battle.

Along the way a gecko has the lifelong aspiration to want become a crocodile. (Which I took the time to get the Lion and Pony Guard to help him try not to be disappointed given Makuu’s current attitude. Along with cutting out the interruption of sparing session in canon)

But given Beshte and Fluttershy being the kindest of souls they couldn’t let him down as Hodari moved to pop the question (No, not that question) with predictable results.

A rejection itself ends up with consequences as the skinks were quick to pass this along to another rival croc who is more than happy to use said knowledge to take down Makuu. Leading to another epic battle with Starlight joining in for the sole purpose of getting both Kion and Twilight out of the way.

Thankfully by then Hodari realized that he was in the wrong side all along and came through to help Makuu defeat Kiburi due to suffering a leg injury from the earlier rock slide. And with full gratitude and thanks makes the gecko’s dream come true. (Funny how it works nowadays)

Up next is a little mystery about Discord when he manages to bond with the whole Guard minus Twilight over the last weekend. Which I hope (pending) I can have ready by the end of the month so keep your eyes peeled until then (and No I don’t mean literally)

Episode 36: The Hooffields and McColts

Episode 36:

The Hooffield and McColts

"Hooray! I love Furry Friends Book Club!" Fluttershy happily stated as she opened the first page.

“Me too.” Ono who happened to introduce her to said book from the very beginning along with the many books since she put forth this little book club of hers. "Especially getting to teach your friends of our next topic. Now, let's discuss the theme of nature as it applies to Hoofcliff's love."

But just Fluttershy was about to say her own thoughts about the subject, she suddenly noticed strange flashes of light coming from inside the cottage, followed by a ringing sound.

"Did somebody leave a light on?" She asked. She felt Angel tap her shoulder before pointing at her cutie mark, which was glowing and ringing.

"Oh, it's me." Fluttershy said before getting back to her book…before suddenly what was really happening. "Oh! It's me!"

Her Cutie Mark was glowing, which means...The Cutie Map was summoning her and she wasn’t the only one.

“Me too!” Ono stated upon seeing that his marks were glowing too. Upon seeing them glow, the egret was all giddy with glee as he flew around happily. “Ha! Ha! Woo hoo! The day is finally here!”

The emblem of their marks suddenly emerged from Fluttershy’s flank and Ono’s wings and flew around the room before it flew out the window. Both Fluttershy and Ono were quick to follow after them with the latter heading out first in his pursuit of the marks. But just before Fluttershy left by flying out the window alongside Ono she briefly turned to face her book club gathering.

"We'll continue this discussion when I get back!" She said quickly to them before leaving the animals to discuss other topics about the book who all couldn’t wait for their return already.

Fluttershy and Ono followed the floating mark of three pink butterflies along with the sharp eyed bird, bypassing various ponies, Pride Landers, stands, along with many bystanders, trying their very hardest to avoid and evade contact with each and every one of them. While Ono had his eyes able to help him fly high enough to avoid everyone, Flutteshy however stumbled into a little trouble.

"Oops, sorry about that. Coming through. Sorry, I'm being summoned!"

Some time later, the mark made it’s way to the, which phased right through the door. Fluttershy and Ono landed right in front of the main entrance. But before they could knock or even reach the handle the doors themselves, Twilight came to excitably greet them while slamming them open.

"You're here!" Twilight took Fluttershy by the shoulders before magically teleporting them both inside. She then realized something else before teleporting back over to the main entrance as she realized she accidentally slammed the door in Ono’s face.

“Whoopsie! Sorry about that!” She smiled nervously before peeling the poor egret off of the cracked wall before teleporting him back inside and got to work healing him once they regrouped with Fluttershy.

Once he was now healing up, Twilight continued going on about her ongoing excitement. "Isn't this exciting?!" Twilight spun around, revealing to both Ono and Fluttershy her glowing and ringing cutie mark.

"Oh! You were called, too!"

“Nice!” Ono quickly high-fived the alicorn and cheered sharing the same enthusiasm that they’re finally being called together for a mission.

"Me too!" Kion’s voice said to them before teleporting himself to appear right in front of them, all while showing his glowing marks on his arms with a confident smirk.

"Oh, thank goodness. I feel so much better going with a friend. Or two. Or three" Fluttershy happily expressed.

"We were about to come and get you, but we then we got a little distracted." Twilight explained as she opened up the doors that led to the throne room, and Fluttershy was left in awe.

"Oh."

“That’s what I said too.” Kion said to Fluttershy before turning to Ono. “How about you, Ono? This practically everything you could ever hope for?”

“Yes!” He wasted no time in rushing over to analyze everything inside the room which was filled with stacks of books (neatly organized of course), each one on top of the other, along with several charts on the wall.

“So...what is all of this?” Fluttershy asked as she observed of what’s gotten everyone's attention.

“Research. Information on everything we’ll need for our trip.” Kion answered. “Which Twilight will be more than happy to explain on the way.”

Twilight turned back as she teleported right over to them. “Indeed I will!” She said with eager glee. “Something that me and Kion wasted no time in doing once the map called us.” She then moved to show every Testing out potential friendship problems." she teleported herself back, this time levitating a large book. "Diversifying my solution portfolio."

"Ever since the map called us?" Fluttershy asked in surprise, "But that happened five minutes ago."

"I know!" Twilight exclaimed excitedly, "But I wanna be one hundred percent prepared! I mean, I know we're the Princesses of Friendship and all, but we never know what kind of problem we'll run into. How will we know the right way to solve a specific friendship problem?"

"Only one way to find out.” Kion replied as he made his way over to the Cutie Map where their destination as shown where their marks currently are now.

Fluttershy was now starting to get excited just at the thought of being able to help somebody somewhere. "Oh, I'm so lucky I'm being sent with you. Speaking of which, where are we going?"

“The Smokey Mountains!” Kion answered just when Fluttershy moved to join him.

"Oh, I've never been there before."

"None of us have either. There isn't much information on them. All we could find was this." Kion explained as he pulled out the lone book they came across during their research. "The Smokey Mountains harbor is said to be the most beautiful valley in all of Equestria between its two majestic mountain peaks.“

Fluttershy took a look at the image of the book and found the shown scenery to be just as Kion described it, two mountain peeks mirroring the other, each shrouded in trees and divided by a single small lake. Upon fully processing it, Fluttershy was now in awe by it’s beauty.

"That's gorgeous. And where there's nature, there's a ton of animal friends!"

Twilight hugged the book tightly. "I can't wait to get started! I'm a little nervous since that's all we could find. I usually like to be a bit more prepared."

"You seem pretty prepared to me." Fluttershy returned while turning her eyes back to all the books they had read in order to find the limited information. She then spotted four sets of bags, one with a butterfly image, one with a star, one with a fierce lion, and one with a sharp eyed bird, each and every one of them representing their cutie marks. "Are those for us?"

“Yep!” Twilight nodded while donning her saddlebag. “I've prepared our things. Snacks, books, blankets, books."

"You said "books" twice."

"There are a lot of books." Twilight said before handing Fluttershy her saddlebag while Kion did the same for Ono.

For the both of them, it happened to be even heavier than they expected. At moments like these they wished they had the super strength their alicorn friends have.

But one thing’s for sure on Ono’s mind, he in fact is ready for whatever the friendship problem they’re facing is, and he has his best friends by his side for the job so they can solve it together. And if he has to do some heavy lifting, then so be it.

Thankfully for both Fluttershy and Ono, they had their hot air balloon ride which allowed them time to relax as they fly their way on over to their destination. Twilight while making the proper adjustments to their ride was now unable to contain her excitement.

"What do ya think our friendship problem's gonna be?" She asked the others who joined her once they all made sure they had everything they need for their journey.

"I don't know." Fluttershy said with a sigh once she was finally able to toss her saddlebag inside the hot air balloon basket. "But I'm sure we'll figure it out."

“And surely we’ll know once we see what’s going there after we get there.” Kion added while staying very optimistic of the whole mission going forward while hopping into the basket after Fluttershy.

“Affirmative.” Ono agreed too as he tossed his bag into the basket last.

With everyone all together, Twilight moved to adjust the ropes so their hot air balloon ride can fly up and on over to the Smokey Mountains.

During the ride over, Twilight and Ono were both trading thoughts on what their upcoming friendship mission.

"Do you think it'll be a problem about lying?" Twilight asked.

“I don't know." Ono replied. “It could be a problem about theft.”

“Within or out of the mountains?”

“I don’t know. We'll find out when we get there."

"You're right."

In the meantime, Kion just took the opportunity to rest up while Fluttershy just sat back and watched as both Twilight and Ono traded ideas of a potential friendship problem together.

"Ooh! Could it be about when two friends just randomly decide to do something together, but they forget to invite the third friend, and the third friend feels left out?"

“Much like what happened the other day with us and Discord?”

“Yes, just like that!”

“Maybe, maybe not.”

“Fluttershy…” Kion asked with his eyes closed with a single paw raised up expecting something to be placed on it.

“Oh! Right!” She said upon taking an extra few seconds to realize that he is not fully asleep nor sleep talking before moving to hand him a pair of earmuffs so he can continue sleeping undisturbed. “Sweet dreams.”

"Thank you."

Thankfully by the time Kion got his rest, they had all arrived at their destination. Said area was surrounded by pine trees with plenty of cover with nothing but a magical lock to ensure that their ride stays put and isn’t stolen.

Even after hours, both Twilight and Ono were still going at it with their ongoing excitement while looking at the map so they can accurately pinpoint the route they would need to take in order to get to the mountains.

"Or where one friend tells another friend's secret after they asked them not to?" Twilight asked.

“Wouldn’t be the first time.” Ono replied feeling it’s nothing unfamiliar. “Along with getting pursued by Pinkie Pie whenever someone breaks a Pinkie Promise.”

Fluttershy exhaled when she placed her heavy saddlebag on her back. "We'll know very, very soon. Since we're almost there."

“Speaking of which, how far are we from our destination?” Kion asked as he moved to get a look at their map.

“Not too far.” Twilight replied just when Ono flew up ahead to use his keen sight to spot out the Smokey Mountains.

“It’s straight ahead from where we stand.”

“Great!” Kion smiled. “Let’s go.”

The four fliers all took to the skies on their own, with Twilight and Kion both reading the map to make sure they were going in the right direction. They then heard Fluttershy and Ono groaning, already getting tired of the heavy luggage.

"Here. Lemme get that." Twilight levitated the backpack off of Fluttershy

At the same time Kion moved to do the same for Ono. “And let me do the same for you too, Ono.”

Both Ono and Fluttershy sighed in relief.

"Thank you."

“At least now, I can fly ahead and help lead the way.”

"Sorry I've been a little skiddly-bopty-boo.” Twilight apologized to everyone. “I just can't believe this is finally happening!"

“Uh-oh! Get down!” Kion shouted as he suddenly heard something coming from behind and instinctively pulled both girls by the wings, forcing them downwards to avoid something that was aiming directly at them. “Ono! Duck!”

“Duck?” Ono looked but was unable to do the same time when a pumpkin managed to crash into him. “Hapana!” He screamed just before he got hit.

The other three fliers looked around and had saw that they had reached the Smokey Mountains, and just as the book said there were two mountain tops mirroring the others, but it didn't look anything like it was depicted on the cover. One hill still had fresh looking crops and trees, but not a forest. The second hilltop didn't have any trees, had dying brown colored grass and tree stumps all around it with the wood they used from those trees to construct the compound-styled fort house at the very top of the hill.

"Whoa!" the three maneuvered yet another pumpkin which came from the hilltop with the simple farm house on the hilltop with the growing garden around it.

"What in the Pride Lands?" Kion asked in confusion upon seeing this.

"It's nothing like the book said it would be!" Fluttershy said, horrified at what they flew themselves into.

“No kidding!” Kion commented in agreement before flying down to check up on Ono.

Twilight's ears lowered already anxious at seeing the problems first hoof. "Oh, boy. I'm feeling very unprepared. Where do we even start?"

Upon hearing another firing sound, the two ponies both ducked to avoid getting hit by yet another pumpkin.

"Maybe by figuring out where the flying pumpkins are coming from?" Kion suggested as he carried Ono in his paws while floating up to join them.

“Affirmative.” Ono replied with his eyes still spinning from the impact.

The three flew down towards the first hilltop, doing their best not to get hit again by the pumpkins.

Upon arriving the first thing they encountered was an elderly and plump pony with bushy and curly light gray hair, brownish orange coat, bushy eyebrows, blue eyes ,a light blue country farm shirt with a dark blue vest to match her eye color, matching color shirt , an orange pumpkin cutie mark, and a pair of buck tee sticking out from her upper lip. It was pretty clear given that she is the one giving the orders to the ponies in charge of the cannons, that she is the ringleader of the farm on their side of the hill.

"Ready… Aim... Fire!" Upon her command, the male ponies all shot the pumpkins all the way towards the second hilltop, aimed directly at the wooden compound.

While seeing the pumpkin fly into the compound on the opposite hill, Twilight moved to politely intervene with a kind greeting.

"Um, hi. Hello. Excuse us, but what are you doing?"

"We're pumpkinin' our neighbors!" She answered while pointing at the opposing house on the hill.

The boys and girls shared skeptical looks before Fluttershy spoke. "Yes, but, um, why are you... "pumpkining" your neighbors?"

“Is it Halloween already?” Ono asked with his mind still not in sorts due to the impact from one of the pumpkins he took a hit from.

“No whatever that is…” She replied rather confused at the term he used before focusing her attention back to the others. “We’re pumpkining our neighbors.”

“Okay…” Kion looked on skeptical and confused as he tilted his head to the side. “...any reason why you’re pumpkining your neighbors?”

"Well, because the McColts are just plain rotten! Hey, wait a tick.” She suddenly turned her head back to the four in an interrogative manner. “Who are you four! You're not spies for the McColts, are ya?" She questioned with a stern and inquiring eye leaned towards them as she leaned in forward to inspect them more closely, which only made them feel uncomfortable.

“No.” Kion shook his head while raising a paw to get her to back off. “If we were we’d at least put more effort into that.”

“I’m Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship. This is Kion, the Prince of Friendship. And we're here to solve your friendship problem."

"I'm Fluttershy, and... um... I'm here, too."

“And I’m Ono. The Lion Guard’s Keenest of Sight.”

“Ma Hooffield…” She shook the prince and the princess’s paw and hoof with a pleasant yet brief smile. “Pleased to meet ya, but you're wastin' your time. We don't have a friendship problem. We have... a McColt problem."

"And there's absolutely no friendship there." One of the ponies standing beside her added.

“Uh-huh.” Ono looked on with a disbelieving look. “That’s assuring. Any idea why?”

“Oh, they done so many things. Why, just today, they shot pebbles at our farmhouse an' wrecked it. See, we're not very good at buildin', so all it took was a little pebble. But still!"

“I see.”

Fluttershy's ears perked up when she heard some squeaking nearby. She spun around and saw one of the Hooffields place another pumpkin into their rock catapult, while unaware of the mice living inside of it.

"Oh, no!" Thinking fast, Fluttershy swapped the pumpkin with an empty one in order to rescue them.

Twilight then levitated her solution portfolio and read several pages looking for a specific one that’ll help clue them in of how to properly approach this. After reading the page she was looking for she spoke up with a confident smile. “I know what to do! We're gonna talk with these McColts and hear their side of the story. Once we have all the facts, we can put an end to this using reason and rationale."

“Good plan.” Fluttershy complimented before speaking softly to the mice she just rescued. “That's why she's the princess."

"In the meantime, could you please call off the pumpkining?" Kion asked of them politely.

Mamaw really never really liked the idea of giving the McColts an easy time, but considering both he and Twilight are royalty and he did ask nicely.

"Oh, alright."

"Thanks." Kion smiled with great appreciation for her being reasonable for the time being. “Come on.” He said to the others before taking flight on over there.

Upon arriving at the gates leading towards the compound-like house, Kion knocked on the door and awaited for somepony to answer his call.

"State your business!" Came from a pony from atop of the fence.

A McColt, one with messy light blue hair, gray eyes, indigo colored coat and a bit of scruff on his chin. Beside him was a mare, similar in appearance and facial features, from the hair to the chin, while wearing a pink bandana over her head and had purple eyes.

"Don't even bother." She said to him. "They're probably spies for the Hooffields."

Her male companion took a good look at the girls and boys down bellow them, particularly their leader’s wings and colorful appearances. "Hey, wait! You two are alicorns! I thought just the three princesses are alicorns."

"Technically, I'm half alicorn." Kion called out from below, "But yes still there are now five alicorns, us included."

"I'm Twilight Sparkle, and this is Kion. We're The Prince and Princess of Friendship."

"And I'm Fluttershy."

“And I’m Ono. The Lion Guard’s Keenest of Sight alongside the Guard’s Fiercest and Kindest of the bunch.”

“We have a new princess along with a prince that’s half lion?” The male McColt asked in surprise. "When did that happen?"

"I'm guessin' when them magical glowing lights in the sky appeared and they got themselves wings on their backs." The mare clarified.

"Oh, yeah. A-A-And how did the Hooffields come by a prince and princess spy?"

"We are not spies!" Kion stated firmly. "Why does everybody assume we're spies?" She asked her friends just as the two front wooden gates unlocked and opened, revealing a sanctuary inside, entirely made out of wood just like the outside walls.

“Because we don’t get a lot of visitors.” Another McColt told them as he appeared before them.

A fit, muscular, and middle aged pony with a bushy black beard, unibrow, and mustache, emerged from the entrance, wearing a really tall hat that contrasted with his short stature and blue old and worn overalls.

"I'm Big Daddy McColt, but folks just call me Big Daddy. You caught us at a weird time. We're in the middle of a giant feud with our... Terrible neighbors!"

Big Daddy's loud scream echoed from across the distance between the two hills. Kion, Twilight and Fluttershy all had to cover their ears and literally felt the ground slightly shake due to his outburst while Ono ended up flying backwards and down the hill they just flew up to get here. For a short pony, he had a powerful voice that can match Kion’s Roar in terms of causing a nearby barn to literally fall apart.

“Ono?!” Kion exclaimed before rushing on over to retrieve him. “Are you okay?”

“Affirmative.”

Twilight rapidly shook her head to make sure she still has her hearing before speaking. "Well, actually, that's why we're here – to solve your problem with the Hooffields."

"So you're here to help us get rid of 'em." Big Daddy quickly concluded, receiving an immediate round of applauds, whopping and hollering from the rest of the McColt family clan.

"No! That's not what I meant at all!" Twilight corrected, trying to clear up the misunderstanding, but the McColts did not like the real meaning behind her words one bit.

"Well, if you ain't fer us, you're agin' us." Big Daddy narrowed his eyes at the two ponies menacingly.

Before Twilight could react in return, Kion quickly rushed over to get face to face with him. "Hold on! We are not on anybody's side. We're here to help you become friends again."

"Well, that's gon' be hard. I don't believe we've ever been friends with the Hooffields family!"

"But you could be!" Twilight counter replied. "They're just really upset you ruined their garden."

"Wait a hog-wogglin' minute! We only did that because the Hooffields pulled the pin out of our wagon wheel!"

Big Daddy pointed to the said wagon, which was indeed missing one wheel. It stood wobbling before falling and breaking to pieces. "A whole week's worth of food rollin' down the mountain." Big Daddy removed his large hat, placing it near his chest, "Us McColts are mighty fine builders, but we don't know the first thing about farming'. We have to travel a ways away to buy our food."

Big Daddy placed his hat back on and showed the two boys and two girls all of the squashed pumpkins that the Hoofifelds had thrown at the McColts. And judging from the huge pile standing before them it has been going on for a while now. A long time even.

"Now, we'll be stuck eatin' the pumpkins the Hans launched at us. Pumpkin bread, pumpkin soup, pumpkin paella, pumpkin pie, pumpkin frittatas... Actually, that all sounds pretty good. But it'll get old!"

“I’ll bet.” Ono remarked rather dully upon arriving back with the others alongside Kion. “And judging from the looks of things you all must have been fighting for years, I’ll bet.”

“Yes sir, we have.” Big Daddy firmly stated. “This has been going on as long as I can remember. From my father to my grandfather, to my great grandpappy and so on.”

Both Kion and Ono blinked in surprise upon hearing this. Apparently this has been going on long before any of them were born.

While Twilight pulled out her portfolio from her saddlebag in attempt to search for another answer while Kion looks over her shoulder, Fluttershy and Ono took sight of the McColts, gathering all of the squashed pumpkin remains the Hoofifelds had thrown at them. Placing them into bags, barrels and cauldrons to make the pumpkin soup like Big Daddy just said.

As sad as it was, Fluttershy spotted something even more saddening. A little squirrel with a very thin stomach eyeing hungrily at a single piece of pumpkin on the ground, almost in a hypnotic state and reached over to grab it, only to have the only bit of food be brushed aside by a broom.

Feeling sympathy for the starving critter, Fluttershy found another slice of pumpkin and happily gave it to her with a smile. The squirrel likewise thanked her with a squeak.

Twilight after searching through the pages found one piece of advice that could be of help. "Have you tried meeting at a neutral location, talking about your problems, and really listening to each other?"

Big Daddy gasped at the very idea. "What?! No! They'd sooner launch their dinners at us than listen to us."

"Well, they'll listen to me. I'm an impartial third party." Twilight proudly stated before moving to fly up.

But just when she moved to do so, Kion flew up and placed a paw on his friend's shoulder before making sure the McColts aren’t around to hear. “Are you sure about this Twilight? Because from the looks of things they have been going on for more than just a few weeks. In fact it’s been going on for at least a hundred years now.”

“True…” Twilight acknowledged with a nod. “...but at least it’ll help cool down the tension for a while at least getting them to least talk it out instead of continuing to throw food at each other.”

“I suppose that’s true too. Okay.” Kion relented upon seeing her point before letting her pursue her next neutral approach to the conflict at hoof.

Returning to the skies once more, Twilight flew upwards, stopping right in between the two opposing mountains. Her horn glowed brightly and a small little sparkle landed on her throat. Once she opened her voice, it was magically amplified to sound as if she were talking through a microphone.

"Attention, Hooffields and McColts! I'm not on anybody's side, but I can see you're both wasting time and resources on being mean to each other. But me and my friends are here to help, so until we can resolve whatever bad blood has come between you two let us cease this senseless fighting for the time being so we can all move on to a better future as true neighbors. Thank you for your cooperation!"

With a satisfied smile, Twilight landed before her three friends, with a pleased smile for a job well done in progress. "Now if we can just get both parties to talk this out along with getting to the root of this feud, maybe we can help them become friends again...”

…right before a tomato landed right on her flank. And before any of them knew she along with her friends and the McColts were all facing a rainstorm of tomatoes hurling right towards them

"Or not…"

“Duck and cover, everyone! And I don’t mean actual ducks!” Ono screamed before joining the others into running towards the nearby building to avoid getting further splattered by the produce flying towards them and the McColts.

Once safe inside, Twilight shook herself clean of the tomato splatter before pulling out her portfolio so she can rip out the page that had just recently used advice out and tossed it aside. "So much for potential friendship solution number twenty-eight."

“What gives?!” Ono irritably asked turning his anger towards the Hooffields they just asked not to repeatedly pelt with produce just minutes ago. “I thought we just told them to stop tossing vegetables towards them. I mean…” He hoists up a splattered tomato. “...this is a waste of lycopene.” Another tomato hits him right in the face. “Not to mention messy.” He added like he is literally going to burst into flames now.

“We did.” Twilight replied before remembering their exact words. “At least for pumpkining that we kindly asked of them for a while.”

“Then I guess we better make it clear that it applies to everything they can throw their way, period.” Kion said while shaking his fur clean of the tomatoes that landed on him.

“Along with figuring out why the Hooffields are launching tomatoes now.” Fluttershy added, which is also the best course of action right now.

“Agreed.” Ono also nodded before they all set back on towards the other hill along with trying to understand why they are all fighting over.

Back with the Hooffields hilltop, the family were tossing tomatoes into their rock catapults and they were all were not stopping not their tomato supply ran out which is going to last a while given the whole wagon loads of produce they have.

"One at a time, Greenhoof." Ma said to the pony with a red coat and mane trying to launch two in her teeth held slingshot. "If you smoosh them tomaters in the catapult, they won't break on the McColts."

"What are you doing?" Twilight asked once she, Fluttershy, Kion, and Ono landed in front her. "I asked you to stop fighting."

"Oh, is that what you were hollerin' about? We thought the McColts rubbed ya the wrong way. So we tomatoered them for ya. My mistake." Ma tossed aside one of the tomatoes she had ready for the McColts and called out to the rest of her family, "Stop the tomater catapults!"

Her family obeyed her command and for a moment all was silent. But that silence didn't last long due to the McColts sending something their direction after deciding to go on the offense and it was large. Hay bales which landed on top of every Hooffield on the moutain including the ponies, lion, and egret all together.

“Reload the tomatoer catapults! We're gonna paint their mountaintop red!" Ma declared with her anger towards the McColts further strengthen even further.

The four Lion and Pony Guard members all popped their heads out, but not without Ono looking pretty dazed once more. “What the hay was that? Hay?”

“Yep.” Kion said while working his magic to make sure he didn’t suffer any head and brain trauma from the hits he’s been taking in.

"Well, that plan didn't work. I was so sure it would." Twilight said with disappointment.

Fluttershy then spotted a poor tortuous trying to escape to safety, but his slow movements by nature weren't helping him, especially when the Hooffields didn't even take notice of it, who ended falling back on his back, helpless to get himself back up again. Fluttershy gasped and quickly helped the little creature back up.

"It was a good plan." She said while lifting up a bush for the tortuous to hide under. "We need to think of another one. And soon. This fight is really affecting the animals around here." She moved to place the tortoise back down on the ground so he can resume moving so slowly, before gently pushing him into his new hiding place.

“Okay. Since trying to talk and reason with them isn’t working, maybe we should try finding the root of the problem and work from there.” Kion suggested.

"That’s a good idea! Not to mention it’s number thirty one on my portfolio." Twilight happily agreed with the proposal. “Question is what exactly are fighting about.”

“I don’t know.” Kion replied before taking lead on approaching Ma once more. “But we’re going to find out.”

“Pardon us Ma…” Twilight spoke up to the pony who is now joining in on the catapulting of the tomatoes. “...but do you remember what started this whole feud in the first place?"

"They know what they did." She vehemently replied...

"They know what they did!" Big Daddy also answered in the same tone as the Hooffields leader.

But it didn’t really answer their question since it gives them nothing to go on about to help them out.

"I'm starting to think neither of you know what either of you have done." Twilight stated, now starting to feel annoyed and her patience wearing thin.

"Sure, we do. Them Hooffields did us a grave injustice some time ago for some reason."

“Like what?” Kion pressed of him who like Twilight is starting to get annoyed himself.

“A very grave injustice.”

"Hear, hear!" the entire McColt clan cheered in agreement.

“Well that sure is a very ‘specific’ reason.” Ono remarked sarcastically while Twilight tore off another piece of paper from her portfolio and crumpled it.

"Okay, backup plan to the backup plan. Maybe we can find some common ground that you can bond over. What do you do when you're not fighting?"

"That's easy. Gettin' ready to fight."

“Besides that!” Ono irritably responded as that was not the answer he was looking for.

"What do you hope to get out of fighting?" Fluttershy asked Ma, who assisted her relatives in shooting more of their crops, this time watermelons, at the McColts.

"The satisfaction of winnin'!"

"Of winning what?" Kion asked Big Daddy, while he hammered a nail into a piece of wood and Twilight took notes.

"The fight, of course! To prove our family is the best!"

"The best at what?" Fluttershy asked Ma, who was still launching fruits and vegetables at the McColts with her family.

"Winnin'! Haven't you been listenin'?!"

By this point, Twilight had an assortment of paper notes floating around her, surrounded by her magic, trying and taking in each and every new detail they could learn about both parties, but so far they still found nothing they can work with.

"So the only thing they have in common is that they both want to win a fight, and neither of them know what it's over. How can we end this feud if we don't know what it's about?" Twilight sunk down to the ground, dropping all of her research in the process burying her face into the dirt.

“Good question, Twilight.” Kion commented equally frustrated along with Twilight seeing that they are getting nowhere with this friendship problem so far.

Just then Fluttershy came up with another idea that could help resolve this. “Ooh! Maybe somepony just needs to say they're sorry.”

Hearing this lifted the alicorn princess’s spirits up. “That's a good idea. And friendship solution number forty-eight. But we can move it up.”

Sometime and some talking later, it would seem the Hooffields have finally come to their senses as their leader along with a few select ponies have carted on towards the McColts hill a very large frosted carrot cake to show how much they’re ready to apologize.

“I'm so glad you agreed to do this. This apology cake will go a long way to making amends between you two.” She commended before curiously asking while making their way up the hill leading up to the compound. “Which part of my argument changed your mind? The part where I said the benefits of friendship outweigh the cost of war, or the part where I said forgiveness is an investment in happiness?“

“Yeah, yeah. All of it.” She said not even looking at the princess in the eyes when she asked that.

“Wait. Are you even listening to me?”

Before she could continue questioning her to correctly suspect her real motives for being convinced the pony at the watch tower called down on them once more.

“Who goes there?!”

“It's Ma Hooffield.”

“Hooffield alert! Arm the cannons!”

The two ponies by his side were quick to deploy them up until the matarich of the Hooffield clan added.

“With an apology cake!”

“Did you say "cake"? As in…” He slurped his lips at the sight of the giant dessert. “...cake? “

“Consider it a gesture of goodwill from us to you.”

While the McColt Guards all licked their lips and slurped at the sight at the Hooffields offering, Twilight correctly suspected of what was really going on as she slowly backed away with narrowed eyes along with Kion after sharing a knowing nod together.

“Get ready.” Twilight whispered to Fluttershy.

“Got it.”

“Ono?”

“Affirmative.”

Both Fluttershy and Ono moved to act as if nothing’s wrong while keeping their guard up while their leaders prepared to stop whatever foul play is going on here.

“I haven't had cake in ages.” The mare commented with her eyes unable to keep away from the tempting treat.

“Open the gates!” The stallion ordered of the guards who proceeded to do so while withdrawing their cannons.

After the gates opened Ma Hooffield carried the cake on inside the compound while Fluttershy and Ono walk by her side and helped her place it onto the table.

One of the McColts cried tears of joy at what had to be the nicest thing the Hooffields have ever done during her lifetime. “Oh, it's such a bee-utiful cake.”

“Think of this as more than just a cake. It's the first step in the long road to forgiveness.” Ono commented.

“Nothing says "let's be friends" like a cake that says, "Let's be friends!"” Fluttershy added before whispering to one of the McColts. “I wrote that in icing on the top.”

Just then the cake inside started to shake before the very carrot top flew away as three Hooffield ponies emerged from it.

“For glory!”

But before they could do anything about it, Twilight quickly whisked them up with their magic.

“Whoa!”

“McColts! Assume Delta Force formation!” Big Daddy declared before leading the charge against the Hooffields matriach who quickly retreated.

"Yah!”

While retreating back to her hill she called out to the ponies hiding behind the nearby trees.

“Ready... aim... fire!”

But just before the McColts could approach the Hooffields matriach, Kion was quick to whisk them away before the hiding Hooffields could open fire on the whole McColt clan with his magic. At the same time Twilight was quick to whisk the Hooffields away before they could get another attack in along with the others who were about to open fire on the McColts. With that the ongoing battle was halted at the very moment as both parties were hoisted in the air under both the prince and princess’s control.

“Enough!” Kion fiercely shouted. “All of you!”

“Ma Hooffield, you planted ponies in that cake?!” Twilight angrily scolded. “Yeah!” She proudly laughed before realizing what they had in mine. “Wait. Were you serious about apologizin'?” She still refused to budge from her stance. “Why in Equestria would we do that? We didn't do anythin' wrong!”

“What're you talkin' about?! You done so many things wrong!” Big Daddy retorted.

“Not as many as you!”

Both Ma Hooffield and Big Daddy McColt growled and would have gotten in each other’s faces if it weren’t for being under magical custody by the two alicorns.

“You’re both wrong!” Twilight firmly and angrily stated. “Not for only for whatever so called justifications you think this is all okay, but also for waging war against each other when you both don’t even have the slightest clue of what the hay this is all about. With nothing to be gained but much to be lost. But then again, since you’re all going to resume fighting until you kill yourselves for the next hundred years or so, what’s the point. If none of you care about the damage you are all doing to yourselves, why should I?!”

After releasing her magical grip on the Hooffields at the same time Kion released the McColts, the princess moved to storm off away from both parties who are both left stunned by what they were just told by her…

...only for a few seconds before they got back to arguing and fighting again.

Kion can look on in disgust at both families especially their leaders before following after her to make sure she is okay.

As the battle raged on both Ono and Fluttershy noticed and handful of poor critters caught in the crossfire before rushing over to rescue them before quickly regrouping with both the prince and princess.

“Twilight.” Fluttershy called out to her who was only in the mood to sadly rip out the pages containing the failed ideas of repairing their friendship before slumping to the ground in great distress and disappointment with what has happened so far. “We should probably get back there. I mean, if you need a break, that's fine, but I really can't do this without you.”

“Me neither.” Ono added in agreement before asking the more important question on his and Kion’s minds. “Twilight? Are you okay.”

“No.” She honestly answered. “In fact, I don't know if we can do this at all. Even if I make things right, they're just gonna fight again.”

"But Twilight…” Kion spoke up to assert otherwise. “...you’re the Princess of Friendship. From what I’ve heard and seen from the other’s friendship missions, the map has never been wrong when it comes to making the call on who is the most qualified for the job.”

“Yeah!” Ono agreed while chiming in while recalling their friends stories of their previous friendship adventures. “When it came to Griffonstone, Pinkie and Rainbow both had the best experience with griffons and with Gilda involved it so it made sense for them to be picked to go there. And it made sense for Bunga and Kyoga to go there with them because they had the best brave and cheerfulness to be by their side along with the wisdom to relate to Gilda’s insecurities to help give her the push she needs to reopen her friendship to them.”

“That’s right!” Kion nodded and then added. “In Manehattan, Coco would haven’t restoring spirit to the community if it weren’t for Fuli’s quick-thinking and Beshte’s optimistic outlook to help Rarity and Applejack focus on the smaller things rather than tackling the big tasks at hoof and paw.”

“When you put it that way...that’s true.” Twilight acknowledged though she still kept her eyes down to match her downcast expression.

Seeing this had Fluttershy offer some words of comfort to help motivate her distraught friend. “And there’s also the fact that you are one of the most brilliant and experienced ponies capable of handling disputes like this. So if any pony can get stop two families from fighting each other it’s you.”

“But they’ve all brushed aside every idea I had planned and tried to use on them. Literally.”

Fluttershy tapped a hoof on her chin before continuing. “Well then you just got to keep on trying and if that doesn’t work then use the necessary magic needed to keep them separated.”

“But how are we going to resolve the constant fighting if we do force them to stop?”

“Then we’ll just need to put forward solid proof that this ongoing war of theirs is meaningless.”

And right on cue the furry critters Fluttershy came across emerged from the bushes. "Hey, little fellas. It’s okay you can come out." She kindly greeted with them who likewise liked her as their new friend. Suddenly, the group was startled when a loud rumbling to the point anyone in close proximity can hear it.

"What was that?" Twilight asked in surprise before seeing the critters all having growling guts with the squirrel and a ferret’s being the loudest who both can only rub their tummy’s with their paws.

Fluttershy looked on in sadden horror like it is worst thing that could ever happen to one of her friends. “Oh, you poor things! There isn't enough food here for you! "The critters all moved to hug her causing the Pegasus to shiver after feeling a chill ride right up through her body before holding them close for warmth. "Oh, brrr, and you're freezing! I'm gonna take you all home with me and get you all hot cocoas. How do you feel about book clubs?"

"I don't get it." Ono commented while looking around the depressing sight before his very sharp and keen eyes, "This was supposed to be the most beautiful valley in all of the Equestria. What happened?"

“Good question.” Twilight replied unsure herself before turning to the critters huddling with Fluttershy after getting a new idea in her head. “Would you by any chance know why the Hooffields and McColts are always fighting each other?”

One of the squirrels jumped onto Fluttershy's ear, chattering in its own language while the Pegasus listened attentively. "What's that? Oh! Uh-huh... Twilight! Kion! Ono! They know what happened here!"

“They do?”

“What happened?”

Both Ono and Kion hopefully asked.

But before Fluttershy could explain further, the group heard the ongoing commotion getting louder and louder meaning the fight was already getting more violent with every passing minute.

Ono quickly flew up to investigate and true to his worries, the fight was continuing to get worse now. “Hapana! The Hooffields and McColts are happening! They’re dragging it out until nothing’s left!”

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“We have to stop them!”

Both Kion and Fluttershy exclaimed in shock.

“I’m sure we’ll have that answer soon enough.” Twilight replied before she and Kion moved to lead everyone back to the battlefield.

“Let’s go!”

In between the two mountains both clans have taken the fight down to the ground deciding to meet face to face to put an end to this once and for all. Fists, rocks, vegetables, fruits, wood and all sorts of things went flying about as they were determined to duke out the grave injustice that no pony remembers. No matter what the cost of the very little life left in the forest is, they would not stop until their last breath. Seeing this spurred both Kion and Twilight to action when they arrived on the scene.

"Stop!”

“You have to listen to me!"

They shouted in a desperate attempt to make them listen to them, but they were all too fueled up in their own pride and anger to even pay heed to their words. The moment another cupcake and tomato hit them both in the face, both Twilight and Kion knew that trying to be reasonable has gone on long enough. Now it is time to put a stop to it all.

“Enough!”

"Everybody freeze!"

Their voices echoed across from across the entire valley and a powerful beam of magic emerged from their horn, expanding into a giant glowing spear before vanishing in the blink of an eye. Once the light had disappeared, both families found themselves frozen in place. Their bodies surrounded by two glowing magenta and red auras while their eyes kept on moving, as well as their facial expressions. Each one remained in their frozen position while Twilight and Kion slowly lowered down, taking in slow deep breaths.

“Okay, Fluttershy, Ono. Tell them.”

“And fast…” Kion grunted with visible strain and struggle unlike Twilight. “...it’s a lot hard to freeze an army of ponies than just a group of six.”

Both Fluttershy and Ono having had a spell placed on them to avoid being frozen alongside the Hooffields and McColts emerged from the bushes so they could explain the truth to them at full volume.

"Before you keep fighting, there is something you should know!" Fluttershy began with a squirrel on her shoulder and Ono flying by her side before beginning to tell them the story. “Grub Hooffield and Piles McColt. When they found the valley between the Smokey Mountains, they knew it was something special. So they made a promise to each other to protect and preserve the valley for all its adorable furry inhabitants. But they disagreed on how to go about it. Grub wanted to start by planting crops so that everypony would have something to eat. But Piles thought it would be better to start by building a shelter to protect them against the cold and wind. The two ponies were unable to come to an understanding, so Piles went ahead and built a shelter anyway, exactly where Grub was gonna start his farm! Grub was upset, so he tore down Piles' shelter so he could plant his crops!”

Then Ono took his turn in speaking. “They kept fighting back and forth, until it turned into a feud! The valley suffered from the constant destruction, until finally the Hooffields and McColts moved to separate mountains. Even then, the valley and all the animals in it continued to be caught in the crossfire. You see? By fighting, you're destroying the very thing that brought you here in the first place!”

Once the story came to an end, both families fell into stunned silence and finally took the time to look around them. Because of ancestor's stubborn pride the once beautiful valley was now destroyed and there was now little food and water. It has now become a barren wasteland just like the Pride Lands under Scar’s reign as King. All the animals looked so skinny they might starve to death. The trees were all gone and the grass was dry, crumpled and brown in color. This land was dying more and more with each passing year, and they were all so caught up in this petty feud that they were not aware of it.

Ono then spoke up again as he and Fluttershy lowered down, with all of the animals of the family surrounding her. "So it's time you both put your differences aside and come together!”

“If not for yourselves, then for the sake of these cute and cuddly guys!"

As Fluttershy hugged the critters, Ma and Big Daddy started to see the error of their ways.

"Aw, shucks, we never meant to hurt you little critters. Or you kids." Big Daddy said sadly first in regret.

For the first time ever, Maw agreed with him. "Yeah, we're sorry!"

The critters all chattered in response to the clan leaders apology to which Ono happily translated for them. “They say you accept your apology. And yes, I like Fluttershy can speak critter.”

After a few seconds of heartfelt silence Big Daddy spoke up

"Uh, prince, princess? You can unfreeze us now."

“Sure thing.” Twilight canceled the spell with ease. But then she noticed a certain red colored aura was still going on and keeping them in place for another minute. “Kion...”

"Oh, right!" Kion opened his eyes and realized that his spell was still going on before he canceled his magic too. Once that happened, both clan unfroze, lowering their weapons and started shaking hoofs, hugging and patting one another on the back, ready to leave the past behind them for good.

Mama and Big Daddy once unfrozen moved to speak heart to heart for the first time in ages with the latter taking his tall hat off as he humbly apologized.

"Ma, we promise we won't fight you no more."

"Us too, except we promise not to fight you. I suppose it doesn't matter who's right. We're both wrong."

"That's one thing we can agree on."

To seal their newfound friendship, both leaders spit on their hoofs and shook on it. The gesture, regardless of what it meant, made the Lion and Pony Guard quad cringe in disgust. Never the less, the two clans were united and their c;an members all celebrated and cheered while tossing aside their weapons. From this day forward there will be no more fighting, with full focus on working together to restore and flourish the one remarkable beautiful land to it’s former glory.

Twilight magically teleported herself to the two clan leaders with a smile of great pride. "This is wonderful! I am so proud of you two!"

"Aw, thanks, princess." Ma said in gratitude, "Though I would just like to point out that I was the, uh, first to admit I .as wrong." She smiled smugly at Big Daddy, reigniting his competitive side once more.

"That may be, but I promised not to fight first. That counts for more!"

"Oh, yeah?!"

Just before they would go at it again, the creatures all started to chatter angrily at them, followed by some very disapproving glares from Ono, Fluttershy, Kion, Twilight, and the rest of their families.

“Don’t even think about it.” Ono sternly warned.

Ma then wisely dropped it entirely. "Oh, all right. We don't have to speak animal to know what y'all are sayin'. Truce?"

"Truce." Big Daddy said with an honest and sincere smile.

In the following days, things have greatly improved for both the Hooffields and McColts. By working together like they promised they helped each other create stronger and even better houses than the ones they had before, and perfect shelters for the animals that lived there. Gardens were made, new crops were planted, the trees started to show signs of growing back, flowers were blooming and even the construction of a new fountain made made, with pure fresh clean water along with the water in the river stream. The fountain itself even had two statues, in honor of the two men who founded this place, both shaking hands. Grub’s statue was actually a bush, cut out in his likeness, while Piles statue was made out of cement as a reminder that regardless of what they were good at, only when they worked together did they create something beautiful.

"Woo-hoo!" Big Daddy cheered at the sight of the new fountain, "Ain't that a pretty sight?"

“Sure is!” Ma said in agreement. “The McColts are gonna help us rebuild our homes! Good ones this time. "

“And the Hooffields are gonna help us grow some crops!” Ma added.

“Not pumpkins.” The stallion quickly interjhected.

"Sure is!" Ma then turned to the quad of heroes who helped them see the errors of their ways. "Thanks for teachin' us that friendship is so much better than winnin' a silly argument."

“Our pleasure.” Kion said with a proud smile.

“As leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard it’s what we do best.” Twilight happily added.

“And as the Keenest of Sight and the Kindest of the Bunch it’s our job to help maintain balance in Equestria as much as the Pride Lands.” Ono equally happy added.

“Truer words have never been spoken.” Fluttershy then said before the clan leaders went off to begin their new lives as friendly neighbors leading a glorious home that both Simba and Mufusa would proud of seeing if they were here.

As the stallions and mares waved goodbye to their new friends they then felt a sudden tingle on their arms and flanks courtesy of their ringing and glowing cutie marks and Marks of the Guard. Which means that their work was completed and that they have succeeded in their mission.

Fluttershy cheered first. "Yay! I told you we'd figure it out."

"We did, and we didn't need my friendship portfolio to do it." Twilight said right before zapping the thing to who knows where. "We just needed each other. And I needed some much needed encouragement to keep trying until we succeeded."

“With flying colors.” Ono added with a wink.

“You said it.” Kion nodded.

"So, what do you think will happen next?" Twilight asked once the hug ended and she levitated their respected saddlebag. "We've all been called by the map now."

Thankfully both Kion and Twilight were the ones that took full control of both Ono and Fluttershy’s bags respectively before leading the way back to their hot air ballon ride so they can fly on back home.

“I'm sure we'll find out when we get home." Fluttershy said while following after the prince and princess.

"What if it summons all of us to another place? Or another pony we weren't expecting? What if it wants us to solve other kinds of problems, like quantum physics, or why the apple doesn't fall far from the tree?"

“All of the above are all good questions.” Ono commented as he flew side by side with her so he can gossip with her about it some more.

All Kion could do was roll his eyes with a smile and Fluttershy giggled.

“Some things never change do they?”

“Nope. But I wouldn’t ask for anything different because for all we know this is the Twilight we know and love.”

“It sure is.”

“Yep.”

Author's Note

After all of this waiting, Twilight, Kion, Fluttershy, and Ono all finally get to on a friendship mission together. Their destination, the Smokey Mountains where...

...they find the place is not what the most updated books pictured it to be. Instead of a peaceful and friendly setting it's instead a war field filled with angry ponies hating on each other. A war where there is nothing to be gained but much to be lost. And it happened to be so much of a lost cause that Twilight was ready to throw in the towel upon until receiving much needed encouragement from her friends who recalled why the map chose their friends for the previous missions and how it all worked out in the end.

Thanks to that along with the critters living in the area explaining the truth and restraining magic, both parties would finally come to see what their constant disputing has caused to the land around them. Something that a certain villain would have been content with if that meant he could stay in power.

And with both families ending the war, both families have bonded together for a very strong friendship for years to come.

Next up we have a childhood friend from Applejack's past visiting as she finds that the pony she is greeting isn't the same pony she knew back then. Though a certain somepony has been manipulating her into along with being very abusive towards ponies that try to serve him, certainly has a factor in all of this. Which is something that'll be explored next week so stay tuned...

Episode 37: The Mane Attraction

Episode 37:

The Mane Attraction

"A little more, just a bit more…stop! That's perfect!"

Applejack smiled proudly at the pony workers, who managed to lift up the wooden green apple for the stage. From the lights in position, to the background props of rainbows, apples and disco ball, decorations, all of the above was looking spectacular looked downright incredible.

Many residents of the kingdom gathered at Mizumi Grove in preparations for the Helping Hooves Music Festival, which would raise money for the Ponyville elementary schoolhouse's new art department. The townsponies, Pride Landers, The Lion and Pony Guard, all assisted with the preparations, setting up the decorations, organizing the stage, snacks, drinks and games galore.

Interestingly, the mastermind who was put in charge of organizing the whole thing was Applejack, and surprisingly she was really good at it. She was completely focused throughout the whole preparations like Twilight Sparkle on a good day. When Amethyst Star showed her a clipboard, Applejack read the words before nodding her head, signaling that they had done everything on the list.

"Wow, Applejack! Are you sure you've never managed a concert before?" Twilight Sparkle asked, feeling both very proud and impressed with how well she’s managed all of this with an equally impressed Sunset Shimmer by her side.

Applejack scratched the back of her neck, blushing humbly in response. "Well, it turns out doin' up a concert's the same as settin' up a rodeo."

"So it seems." Sunset remarked just when Twilight presented a long and tall luist of bands seeking to perform. "And thanks to Pinkie's connections organizing the Ponypalooza Rock Concert, and Bunga’s charming assistance, we've got quite a lineup for the Helping Hooves Music Festival."

“And by that we mean quite a lineup.” Ono added with emphasis as he approached the two ponies along with Kion. “And I can’t believe Bunga managed to help convince all of those bands to take part in this concert.”

“Well, he is doing it for a good cause.” Kion replied.

“True.” Ono nodded in agreement. "Though I do wonder how he managed to pull it off without bugging anyone…” He chuckled. “...and I don’t mean literally.”

“Easy.” Bunga suddenly appeared behind him courtesy of Rainbow giving him a lift with mischievous intent.

“AAH!”

“With a little wheeling and dealing, and poison…” Everyone looked on in shock and horror until he presented a cake he made himself. “...this is what I’m talking about. This along with many treats to be presented as refreshments at the concert. Non-toxic of course.” Upon seeing that he had everyone stuck in shock added. “What? Did you think I was going to actually poison everyone?”

Ono was the first to speak his mind by saying while stumbling with his words. “Well...you actually did say poison so...um...yes.”

Bunga ribbed him in response playfully. “Fair enough. But I would never do something like that even if I faced off with something I really hate.”

“Not even…”

“Nope.”

“Right.” Now Ono felt silly for even questioning his friend there.

Just then Pinkie Pie came in spontaneously appearing right before each and every one of her friends much to their sudden surprise.

"Twilight! Kion! Fuli! Applejack! Sunset! Ono! Rainbow Dash! Kyoga! Rarity! Fluttershy! Beshte! Spike! Pinkie Pie!" In her excitement she even greeted her own reflection in a mirror a couple of stallions were moving. "Oh wait, that's me. Everybody!" Pinkie shouted before gathering everyone around her for her big news.

"What is it, Pinkie?" Twilight asked.

"Bunga and I have the most amazing news ever!”

“We do?” Bunga asked looking confused until Pinkie got in her face to shake his body to remind him yes they do.

“Uh, yeah! It is totally gonna freak your frizz!" Pinkie added while galloping her arms around in excitement.

“Oh yeah!” Bunga remembered. “That was the one other thing I was going to tell you when Pinkie got here.”

"Well, spill it, you guys!" Rainbow insisted, already curious as to what had to tell everyone and especially has Pinkie in such a tizzy.

"Well, it wasn't easy." Bunga started said, "In fact, it was terribly difficult. But we have managed to book the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria as the main attraction of the Helping Hooves Music Festival!"

"Who?!" Sunset curiously asked eagerly wanting to know who is coming.

"Sapphire Shores?" Applejack and Fuli asked with curious excitement in response to the pony's name and music. But upon hearing her name, Pinkie Pie scoffed.

"Sapphire Shores?! Please! Sapphire Shores is merely the second biggest pony pop star in Equestria."

“Okay…” Fuli remarked a little put off by that remark. “Then who did you get...?" She asked right before Bunga surprised her and Applejack by popping up from behind him and wrapping his arms around them.

"We've got, the one, the only…"

"Countess Coloratura!" both Bunga and Pinkie Pie addressed the name happily and loudly as possible, along while having the biggest smiles on their faces.

“Okay. I stand corrected.” Fuli said now even more impressed having let her previous irritation towards Pinkie slide upon hearing her name. “That’s even more impressive.”

“No way! I love Countess Coloratura!” Makini suddenly stated with bursting enthusiasm as she suddenly appeared alongside the Lion and Pony Guard.

“Really?” Fuli asked with an amused smirk.

“Of course!” Makini happily stated. “I even listened to each and every one of her songs from oldest to newest!” She presented each and every one of the records, discs, and pictures of her to showcase it.

"Who in the hay is Countess Coloratura?" Applejack asked before everyone around her gasped in horror at her question like it was the most unbelievable thing they had ever heard.

Pinkie Pie stood still, her mane and tail suddenly standing tall, literally stunned shocked. "My frizz has been freaked!"

“Though in all fairness…” Ono spoke in the country pony’s defense. “...this is pretty new to everyone in the Pride Lands. Expect for Makini and Bunga of course.”

“Yeah.” Kion agreed while approaching Pinkie Pie wanting to know for himself what the hype is all about with her in Ponyville. “Who is this Countess Coloratura pony?"

"And how is she the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria..." Sunset asked while quickly adding to the crowd. "...and don't gasp everyone. It's been a while since I've been here."

Pinkie Pie fixed her previously frizzed mane and tail, turning them back to their natural poofy bouncy style, before groaning. "Uh, I just told you that she's the biggest pony pop star in Equestria! How-how-how-how-how have you not heard of her?!" She asked while pouncing on Kion looking deeply into his eyes.

Kion gently removed the pony off of his body before answering. “Um, mainly because I’m not exactly a music kind of guy myself. No offense…” He added to every pony surrounding him.

“None taken.” Applejack returned as she then spoke herself as she pondered the name of the musician Pinkie and Bunga had just hired. “Though I did know a gal named Coloratura when I was just a filly." She herself laughed and snorted at the idea. "Wouldn't it just be the funniest thing if that Coloratura and this Coloratura were the same Coloratura? Heh."

Pinkie Pie eyed the pony suspiciously. "Do you mean to tell me that you actually know Countess Coloratura?"

"Well, I don't think it's the same pony, since my friend wasn't any sort of high-falutin' countess."

"And it has been a long time since we were all fillies." Sunset added while backing Applejack up.

"Do you remember her cutie mark?"

"Sure do." Applejack remembered the cutie mark perfectly, like it was just yesterday, "It had this super colorful bunch of musical notes that just shimmered in the light."

"You mean... like this?!" Pinkie Pie shoved a picture up Applejack's face. It was the image of a pony's flank with a cutie mark that consisted of a golden five inch star with five musical notes around it, one green, one orange, one red, another purple and another blue. Her coat was a light bluish gray color. Applejack recognized both the mark and coat color immediately.

"Well, fancy that! That there's the very same cutie mark!"

“Are you kidding me?!” Bunga gasped while leaping on towards Applejack and grabbed him by the cheeks, getting nose to nose with him. “Do you have any idea the number of hoops we had to jump through to get her to perform at the festival?!" He asked rather frantically, to which Applejack shook her head when he released her. "A whole lot of hoops! That pony is very demanding!"

"What? Nah."

"Yah! I mean why didn't you tell us that from the beginning?!"

"Well Bunga,..." Sunset spoke up while levitating the honey badger off of Applejack's face. "...for starters you didn't ask? And second and most importantly, we just learned about this just now. I mean how was she supposed to tell you after she just told she was coming?"

"Uh..." Bunga failed to come with a good counter-response. "...good point."

"Though I completely understand." Rarity commented trying to make sense of it. "We artistes require certain necessities in order to do our best work."

"This was clearly some sort of misunderstandin'." Applejack asserted. "'Cause Rara was just as down home as me!"

"Rara?!" Everyone simultaneously exclaimed when she said that strange name.

"Even that big name was too fancy for her, so I shortened Coloratura to "Rara"! We had the best time at Camp Friendship! Rara was just so easygoin'! We were like two apples from the same branch."

As Applejack spoke more about her old friend, she recalled the wonderful memories they shared together back then.

Back then both ponies were fillies, both having a great time together. Laughing, playing and frolicking together like two apples in the same branch at said summer camp. Regardless of her fancy name, Rara was as humble as Celestia on a good day. Appearance wise she was as elegant as her name, sporting an aquamarine blue coat, dark indigo mane with moderate blue highlights and matching eyes. In fact, she didn't care one bit about her appearance even when getting mud on her mane when she and Applejack played tug of war, and jumped into the lake to clean herself up afterwards, even engaging with a few friendly splash fights with Applejack.

But the main thing Applejack remembered most about her was her voice. A voice of an angel, especially when they both performed at the talent show together, with Applejack strumming her guitar.

"Rara and I prepared this song for the camp talent show. When we performed, she belted it out, singin' in the most colorful, clear voice I'd ever heard!"

Rara was rather nervous at first, but thanks to the encouragement of her friend, she took in a deep breath and sang in the voice Applejack just described. Her voice truly was a sight to behold. It was so amazing that the moment she sang the first couple of words, all of the campers stopped what they were doing and listened with their ears wide open to hear her.

Equestria, the land I love

A land of harmony

Our flag does wave from high above

For ponykind to see

Applejack noticed her friend's cutie mark shimmer like a dazzling star as she sang with all of her heart.

Equestria, a land of friends

Where ponykind do roam

They say true friendship never ends

Equestria, my home

After Applejack tinged on the silver triangle, all the pony campers and camp counselors cheered for the young filly, who cried tears of joy and hugged her friend, thanking her for giving her the courage to sing her heart out. Something she would never forget.

"After camp, we wrote to each other for a bit, but...then we lost touch." Applejack's gazed fell to the ground, downcast by the fact that she had not heard of her friend in so long.

“Must be tough.” Fuli said with sympathy as she nodded very understanding of what she is going through. “I know what that’s like.”

Applejack nodded back knowing full well of what she is talking about. “Rara always did want to go to Manehattan to try and make it big. But a demandin' diva?" She shook her head at the idea of her friend changing into something she wasn't. She walked over to Bunga and Pinkie Pie, smiling confidently. "Just you wait. Once Rara gets here, you'll see she's just a plain old pony like you and me."

Suddenly, both Bunga and Pinkie Pie's eyes widened, with equally widen smiles.

"We don't have to wait – she's here!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed with gushing excitement, much to Applejack's surprise.

“Really?" Applejack spun around to look in the direction her friends were in awe about. Deep down she was very elated, at the thought and sight of being able to reunite with her childhood friend.

Approaching them was something...rather large.. It appeared to be some form of golden diamond, being wheeled towards the group and the festival grounds by a group of muscular male ponies with raw strength. All wearing punk rock styled clothing, leather jackets, pants, boots, gloves and sunglasses, and their individual cutie marks.

Once the diamond wagon came to a stop music played and steam began coming out of it, which then opened up. Stereos playing the music appeared and more diamonds appeared from behind the opened one, where a throne with the image of Rara's cutie mark, and a mysterious figure inside of the wagon lounging on the couch inside of it. She got up and stepped forward into the light, revealing herself as she got out of the diamond encasing.

She appeared wearing a leather and diamond edge purple jacket with a high collar, a purple shirt, additional diamond bracelets, a choker necklace with blue stones. She has a very familiar aquamarine coat, blue eyes, but with a long white mane with gray purple streaks styled into the larger high ponytail. On her face she wore a black veil that obscured her face from everyone around her, and underneath that veil she had big black brows that are more pronounced and bigger than everyone else.

While she looked very different, one thing for sure is that this is indeed the pony Applejack befriended back in summer camp as evident by the cutie mark she recognized on her flank.

All the other ponies and Pride Lander were star struck and in awe to see the celebrity standing before them, while Fuli and Kyoga looked on indifferent as always. Applejack however was the most shocked out of all of them…but not for the same reason.

"Rara?"

"That's her?" Fuli asked, being just as surprised as the country pony.

"And why is she wearing that get-up?" Sunset also asked, equally surprised with what she is seeing. "Because that doesn't seem very convincing for a humble pony like you."

"No… that can't be. I mean...I don't know."

While they were questioning who exactly this pony was, Pinkie Pie and Bunga all squealed with delight when they saw her.

"Countess Coloratura!" Pinkie Pie squealed so loudly with bursting excitement that she passed out, leaving Beshte and Kion to look down at her in surprise.

Kyoga on the other hand, simply shook her head before using her magic to splash water on her face to wake her up.

“Huh? What happened?” Pinkie looked on frantically before

From behind a male earth pony with a white coat, dark brown eyes light peach colored mane and tail with lighter streaks. Both mane and tail were curly in appearance and he wore spectacles along with a blue business suit with a light blue undershirt, yellow vest and a red tie. He made his way towards the already set up stage, with the famous singer and backup dancers behind him. He roughly shooed anybody in his path away, as they were all far too dazzled by the pop star to even notice his rude behavior.

"Clear the way! Stand back! Keep your hooves and tail to yourselves!"

“Sure thing…” Kyoga complied. “...rude…” she muttered under her breath as she just managed to pull Pinkie away from being trampled by the rude pony.

The singer, Countess Coloratura, held her head up high as she made her way to the stage, while Applejack tried her best to see if she was the pony she befriended from Camp Friendship. She looked back to Fuli and Sunset unsure if she should.

They both simply gave her a gentle nudge on over towards her to assert “yes” she should.

“What are you waiting for?"

"Go on.”

“But…”

“If she has the exact same cutie mark as you described then I’m pretty sure it’s her.” Fuli assured before pushing the pony on over to the pony. “Go for it.”

Following the cheetah and unicorn’s advice, she took a deep breath and moved to approach her.

She cleared her throat before speaking, "Um... hi. Remember me? We met at Camp Friendship? I gave you the nickname "Rara"?"

For a moment, the mare looked away before a smile appeared on her face, like something clicked in her head. She smiled wider once she spun around to take a good look at the orange earth pony beside her. When Applejack moved to look at her in the eyes, she could see things clearly now.

"AJ?" she asked, making the country pony smile happily upon recognizing her childhood friend.

"Yeah! Heh. Howdy, Rara!"

Unfortunately for her, this heartfelt reunion was cut short when Rara's manager suddenly swooped in and began whispering in the singer's ears. All she did was nod her head before placing some a stamp on her cheek. It was the image of a heart shaped horse hoof, painted with red sparkly face paint.

"Hoofsies!" Rara said with a short laugh before leaving her old friend feeling very confused.

“What the hay had just happened?” She thought to herself.

“Good question.” Fuli replied having heard that while looking on rather disapproving of the gesture her manager ordered her to do.

"Your reunion with Rara got cut short." Sunset answered while looking on at the pony like she could kill him with with a sudden burst of fire if she chose to do so.

“Sure wasn’t friendly.” Kyoga commented sharing the same disapproving look as Fuli.

“I disagree.” Rarity commented upon seeing the stamp sticker on Applejack's cheek. "She got hoofsies from Countess Coloratura! Look!" Rarity opened up her compact mirror for Applejack to see the sticker on her face. "Ooh, she clearly thinks you're very special!"

“And so does every one of fans…” Sunset remarked with an unconvinced expression as she gestured towards the Pride Landers and ponies all being gifted with stamp kisses, all while the pop singer giggled towards each and every one of them. “...sure looks like it.”

"Hoofsies! Hoofsies! Hoofsies!"

Applejack rolled her eyes in agreement and wiped the stamp off of her face with her hoof, "Yeah… real special."

Once all of Coloratura's fans received their Hoofsies, her manager gestured to one of the dance members in order to stand guard so no more fans would get near the pop princess superstar.

"Now that's how you make an entrance!" The manager, said with high praise for how she handled that. "Big, bold, absolutely stunning! Though it was muddied a bit with your interaction with that dusty farmpony.” He then frowned while rolling his eyes in disgust. “Do you actually know her?"

"Oh, yeah, that's my childhood fillyfriend, AJ! She was the one that started calling me Rara." the Countess smiled as she recalled said memory. Thanks to Applejack, the new nickname helped give herself that humble feeling of what really defines herself.

"Oh, yes, how cute and...common. Of course, I was the one that started calling you Countess, and just look at how you've moved up in Equestria since then! Why, you've gotten everything you've ever wanted!"

Coloratura smiled in agreement as there was no denying the fact that he did give her everything she ever wanted. The touring, the concerts, the dazzling displays, all to truly give herself the chance to live her passion.

"Although, there is also the matter of you performing in front of these…animals." He commented while gesturing to the already irritated quad who can happen hear every word he is privately saying to her.

"Svengallop, even though technically they’re animals they still deserve to be treated with as much respect as any other fan here.” The Countess reminded. “And being able to perform for them will allow the Pride Landers to truly see what I’m capable of here as much as in Equestria.”

"Yes, that is true." Svengallop conceded to her point. "Speaking of which, where is the pony Pinkie Pie?"

"Ooh! I'm the pony Pinkie Pie, Mr. Manager, sir!"

"And I'm the honey badger, Bunga!"

Pinkie Pie came rushing along with a wagon of things she pushed for the male pony manager. Bunga stood beside her, smiling broadly with a clipboard in his paws. Svengallop worked hard to mask his bitterness about having to work with them, especially since it helps make the Countess happy, and that there is profit to be gained out of this.

"Do you have the water imported from Rainbow Falls that I requested for Countess Coloratura?"

"Twenty glass containers full right here!" Bunga happily replied, tapping his pencil on one of the jars while Pinkie Pie showed Svengallop the container itself with the bottles.

"Did I not tell you to provide straws in all of Countess Coloratura's beverages?"

"Uh, I don't think so." Pinkie honestly replied. "But lucky for you, I have the biggest straw collection in Equestria!" She stuck her hoof into her mane and pulled out a single straw, "I call this straw Fernando." While she said it flamenco music played in the background.

Svengallop only rolled his eyes while skeptically expressing his dissatisfaction. "Hm. Let us confirm that you acquired the rest of the items that Countess Coloratura requested before she performs her run-through, shall we?"

"Ooh, we shall!" Bunga happily gestured to the cart to allow the pony to inspect the cart and take note of all the requests. The cart carried numerous items, from flowers, to gems to cherries in two separate bowls and a container filled with chocolate eclairs.

"Floral arrangements from the royal Canterlot gardens... Chocolate éclairs made by Gustave le Grand... A selection of crystals from the Crystal Empire... Freshly picked cherries from Cherry Jubilee's farm separated red from yellow…"

"Abso-toot-ly!" Pinkie happily confirmed.

But even with every single requested item obtained, Svengallop did not show any signs of gratitude whatsoever as he approached his client. "Well, by some miracle, your requests have been reasonably met. So let us move on... to rehearsal!" With that, Svengallop led the Countess away from the group and towards the back of the stage, along with the backup dance ponies.

"See, Applejack? Demanding!" Pinkie said to the others, which only worsen Applejack’s mood.

Makini approached the group, not looking as excited as she did before. "Did you get that long awaited Hoofsie from the Countess?" Fuli asked looking on like nothing is new nowadays.

“Yes but…” She honestly replied while presenting her current staff which now has a stamp on one of gourds. “...something about that didn’t feel quite right compared to actually getting an actual kiss.”

“Oh, really.” Fuli raised an eyebrow without changing her expression.

“Meaning that you didn't get the actual kiss?” Sunset asked with the same expression mirroring Fuli.

“Oh yeah.” She moved to recall a particular moment when she asked Pinkie Pie of how a kiss works.

“Oh, that’s easy!” Pinkie giggled. “First you pucker up your lips like this...“ Makini does exactly as Pinkie demonstrates. “...hold your chin up high…” She follows through in perfect sync. “...and then push forward!” The two ended up doing exactly that and ended up planting themselves lip to lip.

“Whoa!” The two girls reeled back in shock once they realized they kissed each other by accident.

“Oh...I’m sorry I didn’t think you were…”

“Oopsie...I thought you just wanted the postures and gestures that you need to follow…”

They both spoke each other.

“So um anyways…”

“Go ahead.”

They said deciding after laughing about it for a good minute.

“So there is that, and there is also…” She pulls out a dummy that she made out of turnips to which she took a moment to pause to add. “...this is just a demonstration. Don’t ask. Anyways, there’s the kiss on the forehead. “ She demonstrates it by doing it to a turnip. “...then there’s the blow kiss…” She blew a kiss right at Makini. “...and then there’s the kiss to the cheek.” She kisses the turnip on the side. “See. That’s all there is too it.”

“Wow! That was so great to learn! Thanks!” Makini hugged the pink pony while they both avoided kissing each other again accidentally.

“No problem! Well gotta run!” Pinkie plants another fat wet kiss on the young mandrill before running off. “Meep! Meep!”

After recalling the memory, Fuli only had this to say. “Makes perfect sense.”

"Couldn't have said it better myself." Sunset could only comment with nothing else to say either.

“I know right!” She briefly stated while elated before calming down. “But still not exactly the same thing.”

Fuli shook her head. “Nope.”

"Not even close." Sunset added with shaking her head.

Applejack's ears lowered in sadness with her mind still on the pony she briefly reunited with. "I can't believe this. The Rara I knew didn't hide behind a veil givin' out fake stamp kisses, sippin' up imported water, and needin' her cherries separated."

Rarity placed a hand on her friend's shoulder out of sympathy, "Oh, I do understand. Sometimes it's hard to see our friends change."

"She's become a whole other pony!"

"Trust me. Once you see Countess Coloratura perform, you simply won't believe it!"

Applejack only sighed in dismay despite her friends reassurance. But was still willing to hear her out since she is going out of her way to perform at the charity concert. Hopefully it is all still to her liking she thought to herself.

From the backstage, Svengallop gathered the male dancers in position as the music began to play. Lights flashed on the stage, turning on and off as the silhouette of Countess Coloratura walked down the stairs on the stage, flipping her ponytail back and forth, all the while strutting and striking a pose with every step and flash of the lights. Smoke emitted from the side of the stage, making it hard to see her in the shadows. Her voice was heard, beautifully voiced, in perfect sync with the music, though it sounded a little off from her natural voice.

“Time for the spectacle

Time for the show

The lights are bright and the colors glow

I'm not just anypony

I think you know

The time is now, it's about to blow!”

As she hit the high note, flames appeared by shooting from the side of the stage, followed by more smoke and flashing laser lights, powered by magic, appeared on the stage, further hiding the singer among the audience with the special effects in play.

The dancer ponies appeared on stage, dancing to the music as the Countess continued to sing.

“Razzle dazzle

Glitz and glam

Turn it all up, it's a spectacle

Razzle dazzle

Glitz and glam

Turn it all up, it's a spectacle

Give me more

Razzle dazzle

Glitter eyes, big surprise

Lights, cameras.”

One of the dancers, a unicorn, shot a beam from his horn, activating the vocal enhancement spell on the Countess, who began vocalizing with a stop in between as if she were some digital object.

Razzle dazzle

Glitz and glam

Turn it all up, it's a spectacle

Hear the applause

Here to impress

Not just a pony, I am the Countess!

The singer stroked a pose once the song came to an end and all the flashing lights disappeared, along with the smoke. Nearly everybody in the park all applauded, except for Applejack, Kion, Twilight, Sunset, Fuli, and Kyoga, who were just downright jaw dropped by the performance. As spectacular as it was, it seemed more like a light and dance show with backup dancers rather than a pony singing for people. Even if they don’t understand music as well, it doesn’t take a keen sight from Kion and Fuli to understand that something is off with her music here.

Applejack was the most horrified. This didn't sound like the Rara she knew back at Camp Friendship. Her voice and performance didn't sound nor look natural. "Rarity was right! I don't believe it!" She said to herself.

“You can say that again.” Kion agreed. “Something is really off here.”

“Very off.” Kyoga commented in agreement.

“I may not know music, but I’m pretty sure that’s not true music.” Fuli added. “Even with some of our worst songs to date.”

“Like what?” Sunset asked.

“That depends…” She carefully replied. “...on what you think it is.”

“Have we sang any bad songs?” Twilight asked the others who all can’t give a good response back.

“I don’t know.”

“It’s been a while.”

“I’d have to pull a memory log.”

“I can’t reckon we had one bad song we sang separately or all together.”

“Anyways Applejack…” Twilight said getting back on the topic. “...I know what you mean and I think we may need to get a better look at her manager because for someone who’s been on the other side before, it takes one keen observation to know when somepony’s lying and is just putting forward a seemingly friendly facade.”

To prove her point she directed the country pony towards said pony who is approaching the Countess with high praise after the backup singers moved backstage. "Oh, my shining star! Thanks to the sparkling costumes, dazzling choreography, and brilliant vocal effects that I designed, your performance was spectacular, Countess Coloratura!"

"Oh, thank you, Svengallop!" the Countess said with a short laugh, actually taking in the compliment.

Applejack could not believe what she was hearing and witnessing. How could she even consider the fact that this performance is perfectly fine when it was nothing more than a dance and light show with special effects.. She eyed the manager suspiciously before turning back to her friends.

"Correct me if I'm wrong here, but that feller isn't actually complimentin' Rara. He's complimentin' all the bells and whistles he's piled on to make her Countess Coloratura."

Rarity shook her head thinking otherwise. "Oh, no-no-no-no-no, you don't understand, Applejack. Creating all those elements is a lot of work, and Countess Coloratura's performance wouldn't exist without them."

Applejack turned her back on Rarity as she walked ahead. "If you ask me, that wouldn't necessarily be a bad thing."

“If only that wasn’t meant to draw our attention away from seeing and hearing the real deal.” Fuli added as she agreed.

"Along with seeing for what really makes Rara shine as a real musican." Sunset also added in agreement.

“You’re right about that.” Applejack nodded before moving to make her way towards the Countess alongside Kion in order to figure what the hay is really happening. Not convinced that she would change herself so much like this in this way.

The Countess sighed while placing a hand over her forehead in a dramatic fashion, "Oh, if we're all done here, I'd love to go back to my trailer and rest, Svengallop."

Bunga and Pinkie Pie appeared from behind the two and Pinkie read from the clipboard, "Actually, right now you're scheduled for your meet and greet with the school kids! We've also got some schoolponies from Ponyville who are your biggest fans!"

The Countess smiled with a beam of energy inside of her hearing this while Svengallop scoffed in disgust in response. "Ugh. I can totally get you out of meeting with the school kids, Countess."

Applejack narrowed her eyes at the pony while worrying of what she’ll say next. If she were to say no than imagine all of the sad and disappointed looks on the fillies faces.

"Absolutely not." The Countess firmly stated in response. "My favorite part of any event is meeting with the children and the school ponies! Pride Landers or not, I will never say no to them!"

Applejack smiled happily upon hearing that before approaching her with great pride at seeing the real Rara inside of her. "The school kids'll be so happy to hear that, Rara!" She then lead the way for her to be able to see the children.

All while her manager looked on with narrowed eyes making sure to watch out for his client’s childhood best friend.

Counter Coloratura gathered around the schoolchildren of the Ponyville schoolhouse where the Pride Landers were there all equally happy to greet her alongside the many ponies there. Everyone including the Cutie Mark Crusaders and Lion Guard fan club enjoyed the pony’s performance so much.

Coloratura never looked happier to be with them right now. To her this is her first time meeting with the young Pride Landers, who her manager referred to as animals. In her eyes, they're not animals, they’re were the most adorable pride and joy their parents could ever ask for as she moved to hug and greet them.

"Alright little ones, as part of the Helping Hooves Music Festival, I'm holding a contest where some of you will get a chance to sing with me onstage at the concert tomorrow! Sound fun?"

The children, foals, and little animals all cheered happily at the news. The chance to be able to sing with her, a huge pop star was a dream come true to them and something that made Rara equally happy as them.

Applejack smiled from afar, seeing her old friend interacting with the children with Kion, Sunset, and Fuli approaching by her side as they all got to see the sight themselves.

“So far so good.” Kion commented with a smile.

Applejack nodded her head in agreement. "Yep. Now that's more like the Rara I remember."

“And that’s what’s important.” Fuli said approving of what she is seeing in front of her.

At the same time, Bunga checked off most of the items off of the to-do list, including the Countess's meeting with the school kids when he suddenly heard a certain voice from nearby.

"But… I got everything you requested!"

Hiding behind a bush, Bunga spotted Pinkie Pie speaking with Coloratura's manager, Svengallop, who is not looking satisfied with her right now.

"That was for Countess Coloratura! This is for me! And what I want is premium oats!"

Pinkie Pie smiled in relief, "Oh! Well, we have lots of tasty oats right here from Ponyville!" She said, showing him a plate of oats she had in hoof. But in response he angrily swatted the plate away, making the oats land all over her mane and tail.

"I would not feed those to a chicken! I want top-of-the-line Appleloosan oats! Next, it appears that we are surrounded by apple trees. Bring me five hundred pre-peeled, pre-cored apples, and I want those things in twenty-four hours!"

Bunga gasped at the way this pony was treating his friend around as she could only gasp in response that ridiculous demand. "But that's impossible!" she stated.

"Do you want me to pull Countess Coloratura from your little podunk charity show?! Because I will!"

With that, Svengallop took his leave while leaving the hurt pink pony behind. Bunga came from out of hiding and Pinkie Pie moved to explain what just happened to him. "Bunga! Svengallop just made all of these new demands and he said—"

"I heard, Pinkie. But don't you worry."

"About what?" Twilight asked as she along with Kion, Applejack, Sunset, and Fuli appeared and approached them.

"That mean manager pony guy is threatening to pull Countess Coloratura out of the charity if Pinkie Pie doesn't do what he wants."

"What?" Kion exclaimed in anger, with his claws bared along with his gritted teeth. He flew up and managed to see where he is currently walking off to. “There you are!”

"Let's get him!" Sunset furiously stated as she prepared to do her worst to that pony alongside Kion.

“Whoa, there!” Twilight was quick to freeze both Kion and Sunset in place before he could throttle the guy. “I understand you’re both upset but I think we can deal with him without brute force.”

“Twi’s right.” Applejack agreed. “I'll talk to Rara and fix things right up."

Kion took in a deep breath, calming himself down before Twilight unfroze him. "Okay…fine. But he better not do that to Pinkie again or am I going to...!"

“Kion!” Twilight placed a hoof on his chest before gesturing him to repeat at her by demonstrating the deep breathing exercise Cadance taught her.

“Okay…okay." Kion did as he was told until he regained his cool as Sunset grunted in defeat as let her anger simmer down until Twilight unfroze her.

“Let’s talk this out first. Then we decide of how to punish him.”

Applejack moved to approach and talk to her old friend, who was just done speaking with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Apple Bloom ran towards her sister, hugging her and happily excited while doing so.

"Did'ja see, sis?! Did'ja see?!"

"Is this the little sister you wrote to me about, AJ?" Coloratura asked much to the younger sister’s shock.

"Hold on, Applejack. You wrote to Countess Coloratura about me?!"

"AJ said you were the best little sister ever, Apple Bloom!"

The Crusaders stood there with wide popped eyes and dropped jaws. Apple Bloom was so shocked that Applejack had to wave a hoof in front of her face just to see if she would respond. She chuckled, "Alright now, you'd best get along, little ponies."

The Crusaders smiled with glee as they waved goodbye to the Countess while Apple Bloom walked away backwards with glee at the revelation that she knew her own big sister personally. To her it was just too mind blowing to take in she couldn’t contain her excitement.

Coloratura giggled at their reactions before Applejack moved to talk with her friend about why she is now here. "Uh… Hey, Rara, you mind if I talk to you about your manager?"

"Sure, what about him?"

"Well, while you were meetin' with the school kids, he was demandin' all sorts of stuff from Pinkie Pie."

"Svengallop works very hard as my manager, AJ, so if he needs some things when we're on the road, I don't see anything wrong with that."

"Well, do you see somethin' wrong with him tellin' Pinkie that if she doesn't get those things by tomorrow, he'd pull you from our charity festival?"

The Countess reacted with complete shock hearing this. "What? But he knows how important charity is to me, and leaving the festival would completely ruin my image!"

"I'm afraid Svengallop doesn't give a pickled pippin about your charity work."

"That's not true!" Coloratura stated, rather angrily at the very claim, considering that he helped her become a successful rockstar in the first place. "Svengallop has always supported me in all my interests. You're just saying those things because you're jealous!"

"Jealous of what? A pony who hides behind a veil so thick she can't see when somepony's usin' her? No, I'm not jealous of that, Rara!"

"I am not Rara! I am Countess Coloratura! And while we may have been friends when we were young, we have clearly gone in different directions!"

With a flip of her mane, Countess Coloratura walked off in a huff, leaving a very disappointed Applejack behind.

Sometime later, when the Countess was in her private trailer, she was still stewing over what Applejack said about her manager. She vainly refused to think that for even one second that the one pony who’s actions led to her rising to becoming one of the best rockstar’s in Equestria is actually not the nicest pony to get acquainted with. She refuses to see that is even possible. If only she could open her eyes more then she would understand the truth her childhood friend is trying to tell her. She did try but she wasn’t having any of it and she pushed her away.

At the same time she couldn’t help but wonder if she was too harsh to blow her off like that and that she may have been onto something here. After all, Applejack has never lied to her about anything. Sure she can be a little cutthroat when it comes to honesty but she her words are always honest and straight to the point.

“The nerve of those nagging voices in your head, huh?” Twilight’s voice spoke to her.

“Tell me about it.” Rara replied irritably before taking an extra second to realize that’s not an inside voice when she quickly turned around and saw the alicorn alongside the lion alicorn standing by her side.

“Hi there.” She casually greeted to the pop star who jumped up onto her chair completely startled by the sudden greeting.

“What...How...How did you...why is he?” She asked completely baffled from their sudden appearance to Kion, a lion with wings and a horn just like Twilight.

“Are you planning on finishing any of these questions in your sentences?” Sunset asked with an amused smirk.

“How did you get in here? And why does a lion have wings and a horn?”

“For starters…” She pointed to the tip of their horns. “...we’re alicorns with Kion here being half alicorn while half alicorn along with Sunset being a unicorn herself.” She gestured to both Kion and Sunset while she was at it.

“Right.”

“And second and most importantly, in answer to your question what and why we are here, well it’s quite simple. To help solve a friendship problem and who better to do it than the Princess and Prince of Friendship.”

“Well...other than Applejack, no one else.” Rara softly replied solemnly.

“You know that was a rhetorical question, right?” Kion asked.

“Yes.” She said not taking her eyes off of the floor as she dragged a hoof on the steel metal on the ground in her trailer. “And I know exactly why you are both here. Because of my rift with Applejack not too long ago.”

“Yep.”

It didn’t take a second thought for them to give them simple honest reply like Bic Mac would do if he were here.

“And I’m sure she told you of what happened?”

“Yep.”

“And you’re now here to tell me off? I won’t hold anything against you both if you do.”

“No.” Much to Rara’s surprise.

“No?”

“No.”

“But why?”

“Because even still you don’t deserve it.” Twilight replied with sincerity.

“But Applejack was the only friend I truly had back when were in summer camp the first pony that gave me a nickname that defined who I am. And when she was just trying to tell me something, I pushed her away.”

“It’s not your fault.” Sunset assured. “You were just upset and not seeing things clearly is all.”

“But how can you even say that?!” Rara asked finding that statement incredulous. “It’s not like you did anything like that before!”

“Actually we have.” Kion said otherwise. “Many, many times.”

“Including me.” Twilight added. “And believe me I know what that’s like.” Rara still looked on confused. “Coming from the former Princess of Darkness who spent months away from Equestria and working her way back into everypony and Pride Lander’s good graces after betraying every one of my friends. It could have been worse in your case.”

"And while I may not have done anything worse than Twilight nor ran away from home for so long, there have been many, many, many times I have let my anger get the better of me even to this very day." Sunset further explained. "More than I wish to think on, actually. But the point being, one argument doesn't mean it's the end of the world."

“Yeah.” Kion agreed. “Even after all of that especially to me, I still forgave her because that’s what friends do. And I think that’s what you can do with Applejack.”

“And yes she might be stubborn at times but deep down she is an honest pony who wants nothing more than the best interests for her friends.” Twilight added. “And by that I mean she is honest about every word she says.”

“Even about Svengallop?”

“Even about Svengallop.” She removed the veil as she found herself face to face with Twilight as she moved to speak eye to eye with her with her other free front hoof placed on her shoulder. “Like with Scar, it takes keen eye and clear observation to know exactly what kind of pony you’re dealing with. Just because he may claim to have your best interests at heart, doesn’t mean your manager is as benevolent as he claims to be.”

“But...but...how can I see that after everything he has done for me?!” Rara cried out still in denial at the idea. “How can he even be a crooked and selfish man who doesn’t care about me at all when he’s been helping with my success from the very beginning?!”

“I know this is something you don’t want to hear but I’m afraid Svengallop might not be telling you the whole truth and keeping whatever his true self is behind the curtains.” Kion calmly explained. “And that’s because you never got a chance to properly see that for yourself.”

“And if you’re willing to hear us out…” Sunset added as an offer like approach. “...we can help you out with that.”

“How?” She asked feeling very uncertain about how they plan to do so.

“Just listen carefully with what about to tell you…” Twilight told her as both she and Kion were open ears for what she had in mind...

The next morning, Applejack spun the machine around in order to peal the apples that Svengallop had requested. But she was hardly focusing on the task and more so on her friend.

"It just ain't right! He's manipulatin' her, and she's just not seein' it!"

"Enough stewin', more peeling'!" Pinkie exclaimed, her mane and tail already covered in apple cords, and apple slices, having peeled so many apples alongside Bunga who too assisted as well. Like Pinkie he too was already feeling worked to death as he wiped away the sweat from his forehead.

“Ugh. So many apples. I feel like I just run a marathon.” He commented as he literally was riding an apple peeler like a bike just to help keep pace with helping get the job done.

But Applejack was not about to let this all slide. She had to talk to Rara about this, even if she wouldn't hear her out. Someway somehow she was determined to put an end this corrupt management she’s following without realizing it.

"Sorry, fellas, but there is no way I'm lettin' that lousy Svengallop use my friend like that!" with that, Applejack ran off to go find her old friend, leaving poor Bunga and Pinkie Pie to groan at the remaining apples they still had left to peal.

"Countess Coloratura!" Applejack called out to the singer, who was on stage talking with her backup dancers.

"Wow, AJ, you said my real name." She said delighted to see her again even after what happened earlier. “And you came back.”

"Yes I did. And I said your new name, but I saw the real you hangin' out with those school kids yesterday. And I know somepony that'd prefer if you stop doin' those little events."

“Right him.” The countess returned still not too pleased to bring up the subject again. “And I know a pair of friends of yours that were just telling me the same thing. You know, the one’s that have horns and wings.”

Applejack didn’t even deny it nor even asked for them to talk to her on her behalf. “Yep, that’s them all right. The Prince and Princess of Friendship always looking out for everyone’s best interests at heart even without being asked. And I’m sure they told you to give me a chance to prove what I'm sayin' is true."

"And just how are you going to do that?"

"Do exactly what I say. We'll see if that Svengallop truly has your best interests at heart."

Countess Coloratura still wasn't sure about this. But, after the talk with Twilight and Kion, she was more than willing now to give her a chance and was willing to hear her out.

"Svengallop? Svengallop! Where are you, Svengallop?" She later called out for him, who appeared right beside her by leaping up onto the stage.

"Here I am! Did you need something?"

"Yes, I was... considering…" She hesitated with her words at first before speaking what she planned to say from the start. "..m-maybe canceling the contest with the school kids..?"

Svengallop smiled in delight about hearing those words. "Countess, this is wonderful! I've been waiting forever for you to cancel that pointless human school kids contest."

"You… have?" She asked feeling rather hurt that he would be so happy for her to want to give up one of her passions she loves doing.

"You do it at every charity event, and it does absolutely nothing to promote the Countess Coloratura image that I built! Consider it canceled. Pinkie Pie!"

The overly exhausted pony appeared up from behind, coughing apple cords from her throat, with her hair and mane a complete mess. "Yes, Svengallop, sir!" She said, looking like she was going to pass out.

"We are making some adjustments to the show. Follow me!" While he led Pinkie away from the singer, she turned her head to Applejack, who gave her a salute before waving to Twilight Sparkle and Sunset, with the former hovering above Svengallop and Pinkie Pie while the later disappeared and reappeared into the nearby bushes, both of their horns twinkling as they watched the events unfold unnoticed.

"Cancel the contest for the animal kids and schedule me a spa treatment." Svengallop harshly ordered of her. "Now that I don't have to oversee a rehearsal with those brats, I have time for the works! You know the drill! Deliver, or the diva ditches your dippy charity!"

Adjusting his tie, he walked away from the frightened pony before calmly coming back to his client, acting as if nothing had happened.

"Okay, Countess Coloratura, all taken care of!"

"You know the drill! Deliver, or the diva ditches your dippy charity!" Svengallop's eyes widened in horror when he heard the exact same words he said only seconds ago, amplified and replayed for all to see, courtesy of Twilight and Sunset's magic, projecting a screen and a recording of the events. He could only look on in horror upon seeing the anger in the singer's eyes knowing that he has just been exposed to everyone for who he truly is.

"So that's how you've been managing things?"

"Yeah, so? What's the problem?" Svengallop replied not even denying what happened. Not that he could lie if he wanted to.

"The problem is, is you've been using my name to intimidate ponies to get what you want!"

"But I work incredibly hard for you! I deserve everything I get!"

"But not because you scare others into thinking I won't perform for their charities otherwise! I would never do that to my fans! Which is why you should have known that I would never cancel the school kids' contest!"

"Hmph. All this charity and school kid contest nonsense is just remnants of that boring little Rara I met back in Manehattan! And now you want to carry that on with these disgusting, filthy flea bag carrying animals! Don't forget, I made you somepony! I gave you the cloths, the name, the voice, everything!"

"No! You clearly don't understand the real me!" She retorted in righteous anger while finally removing the dark veil that she had over her eyes. In more ways than one.

"Ha, that's a joke!” The sleazy manager scoffed. “What can you even do without me? Good luck, Countess Coloratura! Good luck."

With his nose held up high in the air, the stallion marched off of the stage with a sense of smug victorious satisfaction feeling he achieved a constellation prize out of it, but others were not finished with him yet. Bunga eager to get back at him made him trip with his foot while having his paws behind his back to pretend it was an accident.

“Ow!”

“Oopsie. Sorry. Guess you should have watched your step.” He mockingly said to his face before spraying his face with his gas. “And that was for mistreating Pinkie Pie.”

Svengallop gagged and coughed as he found his mane messed up and body reeking with his awful stench like he’s been attacked by a skunk. “Aw, man! P.U.! And I thought skunks were smeller!”

“They are!” Bunga crossed his arms and proudly turned his back on him.

“Why you little…?” He moved to stand to confront him and strangle him only to find himself face to face with Kion who was returning an aggressive look right at him along with a smirking Sunset eager to get revenge .

“Why you big…” Kion snarled while forcing the pony to back up.

The former sleazebag could only nervously laugh in the face of the young lion and half alicorn who is ready to tear him apart for mistreating his friends. “Now, now. Nice kitty.” That only further enraged Kion as he prepared to use the Roar of the Elders on him with righteous fury.

"Oh, big mistake." Sunset smugly remarked knowing exactly what is going to happen next. "Oh and before you go..." Sunset quickly lifted the pony up the air and then delivered the hardest punch she could deliver to send the pony flying.

Once the pony was up flying across Ponyville, Kion unleashed the Roar to send him flying away from Ponyville all the way back to Manehattan where he found himself hurling face to face with a giant bell on top of the city’s clock tower.

“NO! AAH!” He screamed before smacking the bell face first and then dropped below it. And if that wasn’t bad enough for him, the bell loosen upon impact which broke off and landed right on top of him.

The Pride Landers and ponies all cheered in delight to see that onscreen courtesy of Twilight’s magic as the pony passed out from his injuries as he emerged his head outside of bell.

While the audience was cheering, Thurston came waltzing amongst the crowd curious of what just happened while he was away with a couple of corn dogs in his mouth. “What did I miss?”

At least now, Rara felt assured deep down that with Svengallop no longer around to dictate her life, she is free and felt confident about running her own concert the way she wants to…

...at least until she started to panic while getting prepared for her big night in her dressing room.

She was just getting into her new outfit and getup with Rarity and Ono ’s assistance. He hair was let down for a more natural curly flow with an assortment of gems decorated across her black and dark blue mane and tail. She wore a blue bird styled outfit with a feather piece holding up her tail, with jeweled feathers on her eyebrows, and dark blue jeweled boots.

This was her very first concert in years, without her manager. She was now worried of what fans will think of her music, what they will think when they see her new appearance. She doesn’t have her usual visual effects to help disguise her voice. Now she has cold hooves that make it clear to herself that she can’t go through with this.

"Oh, my gosh, you guys, Svengallop's right! This is gonna be a disaster! I'm gonna be terrible!" the poor pony began pacing back and forth in a frenzy, preventing Rarity from placing the headpiece on her head.

“Could you at least stand still for five seconds…” Ono pleaded of the frantically panicking unicorn as Rarity can’t place the headpiece on her head.

It was there when Applejack approached them. "Can you guys give us a minute?"

"Certainly." Rarity agreed with a nod before she and Ono left to allow her to speak to her childhood friend heart to heart.

"Now, why's it gonna be so terrible?" Applejack calmly asked.

"Because Svengallop was in charge of everything! The lights, the visuals, the sound! I haven't even sang without the vocal spell in so long, I wouldn't even know if I can still sing. Without Svengallop, I have nothing!"

"Now, now, don't go gettin' yourself into a tizzy there, Rara." She assured while wrapping her arm around her friend, she led her back to her mirror and gently sat her back down on the stool.

"Svengallop turned you into Countess Coloratura and acted like your friend so he could enjoy the perks that came with bein' a star. But the real perk of friendship is gettin' to see your friend bein' true to their self. And Rara, when you're simply yourself, you're the brightest star I've ever seen shine."

Rara took a good look at herself at her own reflection in the mirror, taking in her friend's words. Words that former manager had never said to her before. Words that actually helped her see of what’s truly important in life.

Now is her best chance to show her the real pony beneath her veil she wore for so long, the pony that sang her first song with such inspiration that truly jump-started her dream career. The rainbow shimmering courage that drew through her mane as her cutie mark glowed.

Later that night, the crowd gathered at the park ready to see the long anticipated show. Lights decorating the area to illuminate the stage to give the primary star of the show a dazzling appearance. Ponies and Pride Landers alike sat together, ready for the show while the Lion and Pony Guard got front row seats.

The elephants assisting with the lighting shot a spotlight onto the stage as Princess Twilight stepped forward for the opening announcement, causing everyone to burst into a roar of applauds on par to when she helped procure them water to help them through the dry season in the Pride Lands. Once the crowd had settled Twilight Sparkle addressed to the crowd.

"Good evening, everybody! Welcome to opening night of the Helping Hooves Music Festival! Now it is my great honor to introduce you to our headlining act – Countess Coloratura!"

The crowd cheered loudly, all excited and anxious to see the legendary pop start perform. But, once the curtain rose up, she didn't look anything like she did in her albums and posters nor did she wear the clothes nor have any backup dancers behind her. She wore a simple slim black gown with transparent skirt and a silver necklace around her neck. Her hair was styled with a soft bang brushed to the left side, and her was styled to the way it was just when she was a filly, along with her tail. A fitting and natural appearance that made her look She looked all natural, which made her all the more beautiful. In front of her, rested a beautiful black piano.

"This song may be familiar, but yet, it's totally different. Kind of like me, Rara."

The audience exchanged looks of confusion and muttered with one another wondering what she is planning to do instead. Regardless, Rara proceeded to sit on a stool and played on the piano. She began playing a soft musical tone that was calm and soothing and was well heard around the park. Nothing but simple ordinary music all played by herself. The way true music can be played. After a several seconds of playing notes she worked the courage to start singing on her very own accord.

“I'm here to show you who I am

Threw off the veil, it's finally time

There's more to me than glitz and glam, oh-whoa

And now I feel my stars align.”

So far she is off to a great start. She sounded beautifully and it is definitely nobody could have ever believed nor hear what they are seeing since this is the first time she is actually singing on her own accord since she was a filly. Slowly and progressively, her voice grew stronger and stronger, with much more confidence, and grew as warm as her heart all while the unicorns in the audience lit up their horns to illuminate the stage for her song.

“For I had believed what I was sold

I did all the things that I was told

But all that has changed, and now I'm bold

'Cause I know.”

From behind her, Makini along with an orchestra of galoagoes played on several instruments for the pony's song.

That I am just a pony

I make mistakes from time to time

But now I know the real me

And put my heart out on the line

And let the magic in my heart stay true

Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa

And let the magic in my heart stay true

Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa

Just like the magic inside of you.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders smiled hearing the lyrics of the song like it was the best singing they have heard, and even better than before.

“And now I see those colors

Right before my eyes

I hear my voice so clearly

And I know that it is right

They thought I was weak, but I am strong

They sold me the world, but they were wrong

And now that I'm back, I still belong

'Cause I know”

From her cheek, her cutie mark shimmered and sparkled just like it did when she was young and sang on her own. Singing that came from the love of all of her heart.

Among the audience, Applejack, Sunset, Fuli, and Kyoga cried happy tears while the others cheered for Rara, the audience bursting into roaring applause. Even Rara herself cried tears of joy having never sang her passion like this at all before. She never realized until now how much she had truly missed her voice.

“That I am just a pony

I make mistakes from time to time

But now I know the real me

And put my heart out on the line

And let the magic in my heart stay true

Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa

And let the magic in my heart stay true

Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa

Just like the magic inside of you

Just like the magic inside of you...”

As the song came to a close, Makini and the galoagoes stopped playing the instruments, the audience stood up from their seats, clapping and cheering as loudly as they can. That was the most beautiful song they had ever heard and the most incredible performance they had ever seen. Rara took the microphone, stepping a few feet further onto the stage to speak to everyone.

"Thank you, everybody! When I arrived at the Helping Hooves Music Festival, I had forgotten who I really was! But then an old friend reminded me what real friendship is about." Her eyes locked upon a certain country pony, who smiled in return. "And she told me that if I was true to myself, I couldn't go wrong! So I have a very special surprise for her. All the children that have attended the festival, come on up!"

Each and every child that was there happily ran up to the stage, including the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Lion Guard fan club. They all stood beside the singer, while the Crusaders stood closest to her. The galogoess played their instruments once more as an equestrian and Pride Lands flag fell gently from above as a familiar song was sang by Rara and the children.

“Equestria, the land I love

A land of harmony

Our flag does wave from high above

For ponykind to see.”

Rara extended her hand for Applejack to come up and join her on stage, to which she happily complied without a word. The two friends stood together while singing with all of the children, together in perfect harmony.

“Equestria, a land of friends

Where ponykind do roam

They say true friendship never ends

Equestria, my home.”

As the audience cheered once more, Sweetie Belle levitated a triangle for Applejack to ting which she did, just like she and Rara did long ago back at Camp Friendship.

After the event, friends and family gathered together to enjoy snacks and games, and to talk about Rara’s stunningly remarkable performance. The pony received so many compliments from new fans, old and new, now a truly rising star in both worlds now. While talking and catching up with Applejack, Sunset, Fuli and Kion moved to commend her for her performance.

“Congratulations, Rara.” Kion complimented.

“Thank you, Kion.”

"Great song!" Sunset also complimented.

"Thank you, Sunset. For everything."

"You're welcome. It just takes one pony who sees eye to eye to help one pony out."

"It sure does."

“You were a natural out there.” Fuli added with a proud smile. “You remind me of myself when I was a young cheetah.”

“Really?”

“Oh yeah. The singing, the lost childhood friends, and the passion of embracing friendship into your true talents right down to the tee.”

“Thanks, but if weren’t for the Prince and Princess giving me that much needed talk to move me into talking to Applejack again, I’d probably still be letting Svengallop ride me like a horse. No pun intended.”

Her friends stifled a chuckle before Kion moved to speak next. ”Well it’s a good thing to have an honest friend having your back, even after so many years apart.”

“It sure is.”

“You’re darn tooting it is.”

Rara turned to her childhood friend with something she really needs to say. “And I can’t thank you enough for everything since we reunited, Applejack. I know we may not see each better as often as when we were fillies but I want to you that you still have a special place in my heart as one of my best friends. A best friend who is sorry for getting mad at you when you were trying to tell me the truth I should have been wiser to a lot sooner than expected.”

“Aw, don’t fret it, Rara. It could have happened to any pony, even Twilight.”

“Right, of course.” She giggled. “Speaking of any pony…” She then said to Kion. “...where exactly did you send my former manager, anyway? Do I have to worry about him taking advantage of me or any other talented musician in the future?”

Kion smiled in assurance to assert that’s the case. “I’m sure you wouldn’t. And in regards to where he is now thanks to my Roar, he is now answering his true calling as a manager. Somewhere that should ring some bells…” He smirked as he now has a good idea where he is now...

...currrently in between the ringing bells of the big clock in Manehattan as it is now midnight there.

“Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow. Ow.”

After the clock was done ringing its bells, Svengallop collapsed to the ground before finding himself arrested by the cops as they held a videotape and a disc which contained the recorded confession of him abusing Pinkie Pie on it. Instead of being dragged away, he was instead cuffed to the poles that had him positioned in between the bells to where they found him.

“Oh come on guys…” He pleaded as they watched over him with coffee and donuts in tow. “...this is so unprofessional. You can’t leave me like this.”

“You’re right we can’t.”

“But we can throw you behind bars for what you did as the former Countess’s manager. And by the looks of this here evidence, we got multiple charges against you that we can and will use against you in the court of law.”

“So, feel free to take your pick because either way it’s going to hurt like haystones in the hottest part of the farm.”

Svengallop could only groan in frustrated defeated before sitting down awaiting for the bells to chime once more as his only other option is a long time in prison.

Author's Note

Here in this part we have a big concert for a good cause kicking off in Mizimi Grove with none other than Countless Coloratura (a.k.a Rara). A childhood friend of Applejack’s who has happened to have changed since they last saw each other.

And with misguided trust and ears from a sleazy and self-serving manager running the show, it definitely plays a factor in things. Not to mention verbally abusive and cruel towards those who don’t get him what we wants.

Thankfully after a brief and regretful spat, the two were able to rekindle their childhood friendship as Applejack’s friends helped expose Svengallop along with making sure he got what he deserved. Thus the concert carried on without any further trouble.

Up next as Season 5 nears its end is Divide and Conquer where the Army of Scar makes a split decision to deal with the combined might of the Lion and Pony Guard with new surprises to come. So stay tuned because there is definitely something that’ll be very shocking coming next week.

Episode 39: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part One

Episode 39:

The Cutie Re-Mark and the Scorpion's Sting Part One

One hour earlier…

Both Shining Armor and Cadance were already getting things ready for their new little foal’s arrival which is just right around the corner and they were both eagerly excited as they have been counting down the days to her expected date. From every wall, corner, every inch of the place is filled with baby toys and accessories. It is certainly a day they have been dreaming of ever since the day Cadance became pregnant and something that’s about to become a reality.

"Ooh! I can’t believe it! The day is almost here!” Shining happily expressed with giddy foal-like excitement as they made their way to the throne room.

"I know!” Cadance jerked over a bit due to the baby’s excited kicking but still maintained her smile. “It sure is to be a very powerful blessing we are soon to be gifted with. I’m sure Twilight will be just as excited as we were.”

"No kidding! I’m sure she is still bouncing with excitement since the day we told her. And speaking of excitement…” He pulled out a letter from Princess Celestia and Luna themselves. “...we have just received invitations to the upcoming Kumbuka celebration at Pride Rock this weekend.”

"Oh! Sounds exciting! I remember hearing Kion talk about the last time we saw him. It was all about the day his father Simba defeated Scar and saved everyone from starving to death after he had ruled the kingdom into ruin. And from what everyone who was there that day had to say, they all can live to tell the tale.”

"Yes, dear. Many of the lionesses, Nala, his mother, his friends, all can live to tell how they helped Simba gain the courage to confront his uncle after he was mistreating everyone due to his past grievances.”

"And the best part about is, we can definitely make it before we check you in so you can birth to our precious foal.” Shining Armor happily added.

"Yes there is that.”

"So I should go ahead and write back to Celestia and Luna that we can make it?”

"Yes, dear.”

"How very sweet of you both…” Scar’s voice spoke as fire began surrounding them inside suddenly appeared with his fiery head appearing before both of them. “...too bad I got have a say in the matter and I’m afraid that you two won’t be able to make it next weekend.”

“Scar!” Shining Armor returned angrily.

"Shining Armor. Princess Cadance, As always good to see you both and I’m so sorry about the rude and unexpected welcome but I have plans to make that day as well. You see you both appearing there proves to be a very big conflict of interest since of course I have plans of my own wanting to say otherwise.”

[i"]Well whatever you’re planning Scar, we’re here to stop you!”

"So you’d better get out of here if you know what’s good for you!”

Both Shining Armor and Cadance defiantly returned.

"Stop me?” Scar returned as if it’s a joke. “Like you two, they invited me.” Shining Armor quickly charged at him and Scar leaped forward with his full fiery body by tackling him to the ground. At one point, he had the unicorn in a hold. “By planning to make a holiday celebrating the day Simba took over what was once my achieved destiny they challenged my strength. Well now I’m using this opportunity to play their game.” He draws his fire powers into forming a sword right on his enemy’s neck holding right in the middle of his throat.

"Don’t even think about!” Cadance fiercely shouted while catching him with a side attack that forced him to let go of her husband. As soon as she swooped in her wings produced a gust of air that put out the flames surrounding them.

"Too late!” Scar quickly reflected the fierce barrage of attacks the princess is throwing right at him before returning the favor back at her. “Already am!”

Shining Armor charged in and unleashed his most brutal force of magic against Scar to force him to back off as he kept forcing the lion and alicorn on the defense. With the combined might of the two ponies they left no room for Scar to defend himself as he finds himself backed into a corner.

But Scar not having split his full energy into four bodies just to come and lose, mustered up a powerful shock wave that slammed his opponents back into opposite corners of the throne room causing them to suffer busted backs and severe immobilization in their bodies.

The two could only look on with defiant and weak glares at the enemy who now has them at their mercy. “My apologies your majesties, but much like criminal work, business is business.” He hoists the couple by their throats with his telekinesis magic. “But don’t worry, you two will still get to see Twilight one last time, that is of course under what I have in mind…”

Back in the present, the shock from the aftermath of what Scar alongside Starlight did in the Canterlot Throne Room is still raw as everyone is still trying to understand how this all happened while everyone else was occupied back in the Pride Lands. With Luna the sole survivor alongside Nala and Kiara, she was the only one who knew what went down just earlier before they’ve arrived.

“I don’t understand…” Twilight spoke trying to regain her composure while still tearing up and crying. “...How did they do this?”

“Like you, I could ask the same question, dear Twilight Sparkle.” She replied sympathetically while wrapping her in a for much needed and comforting hug. “And like both Shining Armor and Cadance it just happened all so suddenly. We were just meeting up with both Nala and Kiara to talk about what’s been going on at the castle lately and catching up with one another while we were at it. And then just when we were talking about what’s about to happen next...that’s when Scar attacked in his unholy and fiery glory.” As she recalled the memory it all played out in it’s magical glory through the power of her magic. “We tried to fight him off, but he was too quick…”

Through the power of fire he managed quickly strike down Celestia before she could even have a chance to react and then wasted no time in engaging her sister in combat who could only force up a force field in order to keep herself from getting her chest suddenly scorched too. All while she looks on completely unprepared and terrified with what he did to her sister.

Upon watching the scene from the side Nala and Kiara tried to keep watch over the fight hoping there is someway they can stop this attack from getting any worse. But just before they could move they were suddenly separated and knocked aside after narrowly dodging a magical attack by none other than Starlight Glimmer who is not having any of them stand in her way towards them trying to interfere with her boss’s plan.

“I don’t think so!”

“Starlight Glimmer!” Kiara spoke in shock.

“So you’ve heard of me, how flattering. Well I am infamous.” Starlight chuckled before getting back to being serious. “But all joking aside, if you both try to fight me, I’m going to have really hurt you both.”

“Then I suggest you be prepared to back those words up because you’ve just messed with the queen.” Nala returned with a stern glare before moving to charge at her.

Starlight looked on smugly before firing off a few magical blasts at her thinking she can strike her down as easily as Scar can. But to her sudden surprise much like with Sunset, she found the lioness is quick on her paws and successfully dodging each and every one of her attacks like she is dealing with prey that isn’t hard for her to catch. Not to mention, she now finds herself on the defense as she finds herself barely dodging her claws as she attempted to swipe and strike her. It got to the point she had resort to teleporting herself away before she could actually connect with her attacks.

Once she was able to catch a breather because of it, Starlight resumed her taunting by smiling and being cocky to her fierce face even blowing a raspberry to her. It’s pretty clear she is taking pleasure in toying with her right now.

Kiara could only look on with a disgusted look on her face at the sight of arrogance oozing out of her from that smile of hers alone. “At least Twilight never had the audacity to act like that in our sparing matches. Hmm…” She then recalled her past sparing matches of how she almost got the drop on Twilight back then. “...I wonder.” She thought of how she can play this ongoing fight to her advantage to tip the scales in her mom’s favor.

She moved to take cover in the nearby rumble and flames while being very careful not to touch them along with breathing the nearby smoke while trying to sneak around the throne room to look for that opening. She also remembered she also has trouble of being stealthy without making a sound which is how she fumbled up most of her attempted hunts in the past while being careful not to touch the rocks and pebbles on the ground.

But she had the misfortune of touching the rocks she didn’t see until too late thus alerting the unicorn’s ears and drawing her attention towards. Acting quick, she used one of her paws to kick up burning embers and dust right up towards her face to which the unicorn barely had time to avoid. She didn’t get burned nor got dirt in her face but it did do just enough to distract her. Before she realized it, Starlight was just pounced on by Nala who managed to slam her down into the ground.

There, the lion queen had finally managed to subdue the unicorn to the point she can barely light her horn due to the tight grab the former has on her horn. And probably for the first time since facing Twilight, she found her life flashing before her eyes in the face of someone who can literally rip her to shreds if she wanted to. She practically felt herself frightened to the point she made a wet spot on the carpet when she cringed and groaned.

But just before she could decide of what to do with Starlight, she was suddenly yanked off of her courtesy of Scar’s magically grabbing her with his telekinesis spell. He was just in the midst slowly bringing Luna down once more and saw this as his perfect moment to seize a quick and swift opportunity to ensure a quick resolution.

“Stand down or else!” He warned while hoisting a magical sword to the lioness's throat.

Luna was already panting in pained exhaustion from having to fend off her enemy’s attacks could not give her up unless she wanted Kiara to suffer heartbreak alongside her. With no other choice she canceled the glowing aura around her horn and flew down to the ground to signal to Scar that she is standing down now.

“Come on, Starlight! We’re done here.” He flew off ahead while letting Nala go who literally dropped and crashed to the ground right into the rubble.

Starlight followed suit while returning a brief smug smile towards the defeated group of heroes before following after him with the power of self-levitation.

Luna upon seeing them go can only look on so devastated by the grief she is now feeling along with feeling like a failure for letting everyone around her down mirroring her current expression in the present day right now.

Back in the present day, with all of what had happened now told, everyone is now left to wonder what Scar is up to now and what he is planning.

“So he managed to appear before himself in four places at the exact same time.” Twilight realized. “I should have known!” Her riled up rage had her incinerating the nearby rubble with dark magic. She was now mentally slapping herself for not accounting for the idea that Scar could master that spell so fast. “That clever lion / alicorn! That clever, clever lion / alicorn!”

“Twilight…” Kion spoke with concern and caution. “...are you okay?” Twilight glared at him heatedly for asking that so soon forcing him to stop before he says another word.

“That’s a no.” Fuli told him before trying to approach Twilight herself trying to help her calm down.

“And it’s pretty clear that Scar has regained his previous magical strength and has gotten stronger.” Sunset added as she examined the bodies while silently praying the attacks weren't fatal.

“Scar is stronger?” Bunga commented now dreading the idea of seeing him again.

"Yep."

“Hapana!”

“What do we do now?” Fluttershy asked in worry while Ono is huddling him right behind her in fear for his life.

“I wish I knew what.” Twilight replied with her rational mind and vengeful side at the crossroads in her mind again as Fuli helps her out with her deep breath exercises. “The whole divide and conquer plot to distract us while having Starlight assist him in taking out half of the royal family is just a start. He didn’t seek out any of us yet.”

"But he could have killed us if he wanted to."

“For now.”

Both Sunset and Rainbow Dash chimed in.

“So that means he must be planning something else as the next part of his new endgame.” Applejack deduced. “He’s planning on picking us off one by one so that once we’re eliminated, he’ll be able to conquer and reconquer both kingdoms.”

“Which means what happened here today is a warning.” Luna also deduced. “A message telling us that our days are numbered starting with Celestia, Shining Armor, and Cadance unless we surrender to him.”

“Like any of us would even dream of doing that?!” Rainbow asked as if he’s treating this like they have no other options. “Who does he think we are?”

“Apparently someone he thinks will comply with his unreasonable demands if we don’t give him what we want.” Rarity said.

“Wait till I get my hooves on him…!” Rainbow angrily vowed before being restrained by the tail courtesy of Applejack.

“No!” Kion asserted. “We can’t just confront him!”

“I can if Applejack would just let go of my tail!”

“She means if any of us try to confront him in the Outlands then we’d might us well finalize our wills because that’s exactly what he wants us to do.” Sunset explained as even as mad as everyone else for a good reason, she does have the smarts to know what exactly is suicide.

“Especially me.” The princess understood Rainbow’s anger but couldn’t act on it. “I’d hate to admit it but if anyone even me alone were to charge to that volcano to confront Scar right then and there, he’ll definitely kill us on the spot. Just like he tried to do to us last time we did exactly that.”

Rainbow grunted in frustration as Applejack finally let go of her tail. “Why must things like this be so hard?!”

“Harsh truths in life, Rainbow.” Ono commented with no sympathy. “Especially when the threat we’re dealing with has become even more dangerous than before.”

“Indeed he has.” Luna agreed with a tone of grave seriousness as she moved to work her healing magic on the bodies with the same glimmering hope they can be saved after seeing Sunset sensing life inside of them. “Join me!” She commanded of Kion, Kyoga, Sunset, and Twilight after sensing some very faint breathing from the bodies on the floor. “Together we can try to at least buy them some time.” They all wasted no time doing just that as they poured a lot of magic in trying to revive them.

While this was happening, Beshte moved to press this question with the others. “So what’s going to happen in the meantime?”

“For now, we carry on as usual on high alert…” Simba answered. “...we’ll take turns patrolling the Pride Lands and Equestria up to where the sun touches every inch of the kingdom from dawn until dusk. Princess Luna and a handful of guards will take up the night shift. As for others who want to volunteer they can scout around as well provided they remain at their homes when off duty. And most importantly, no matter what nobody is to enter the Outlands, and by that I mean nobody but nobody. If today is any indication, then it’s pretty clear nobody is safe now.”

Those not tending to the ones on death’s doorstep can only look on at the desperation on Twilight and Luna’s faces as they try their hardest to revive their loved ones. All while looking around at the smoke and rubble around them inside the trashed throne room which has become the site of many, many, emotional tragedy’s thus far.

One week has passed since the whole divide and conquer plot of Scar’s, seven times thanks to Princess Luna, both the sun and moon have come up and down accordingly. Though she is still spending as much time as Twilight in trying to work their healing magic on Celestia, Shining Armor, and Cadance in an effort to keep them alive. While successful, they can feel their spirits slipping away. They don’t have much time and they need another remedy to help them and fast.

Through constant patrols of the Pride Lands and Equestria, everyone was able to keep watch on anything Scar and his army located in the Outlands might be doing. They so far have laid low ever since then but there is no way of knowing of when he might strike again. Hopefully not during the upcoming Kumbuka celebration which is right around the corner and something everyone’s going to want to celeberate because as if it weren’t for Simba defeating Scar that day none of the Pride Landers today would be here right now.

In fact, that’s part of the topic discussed when Twilight, Kion, along with the rest of the Lion Guard were present at Celestia’s school for magical unicorns for a school-wide presentation about it while the rest of the Pony Guard along with the royal Guards do last security check around the borders to ensure the celebration will be safe to proceed forward as planned.

"If somepony had told me when I was a blank flank that one day I'd give a speech to a class at Celestia's School of Magic, I wouldn't have believed it, but…" Twilight briefly stopped and searched one for the correct flash card that had the right notes that had what she wanted to say next. "I hope that I've been up to the task, because I can tell that all of you are, and that the future of Equestrian magic is in good hooves."

There was small clapping in the room, courtesy of Spike. Twilight, Spike, Kion, Fuli, Beshte, Bunga, and Ono were at the School of Magic auditorium, which was empty right now. Twilight was now currently practicing the speech she plans to give to the students, but wasn’t completely satisfied with it, mainly because she can’t go through with it without going through the flash cards even once.

Spike slowly stopped his clapping before speaking. "Wow, heheh. That was even better than the first eleven times." The dragon cleared his throat and smiled encouragingly, though he was really just saying that to try to help make her feel better.

“It sure was.” Fuli sarcastically and dully remarked in a whisper.

“Very convincing.” Ono remarked in the same tone under his breath.

“I think you did it pretty well this time around.” Beshte complimented.

“Yeah! You did it so well you got me so excited!” Makini also complimented just as she moved to approach her just after having arrived and managing to witness her latest speech.

Twilight smiled briefly as thanks before groaning and frowning while stepping away from her podium, "Mmh, I don't know, Spike, Beshte. I'd like to be able to get through the whole speech without looking at the cards!"

"Still thinking about your family? I mean your royal relatives." Kion hesitantly asked, though it was a question he already knew the answer to.

“Yes. They’re still in a life-threatening coma and it has been going on for week now. Luna, Kyoga, and I have been healing them 24/7 ever since it all happened but I can feel them slipping away. We even got their siblings along with Rafiki and Makini to try out their homemade remedies but nothing has gotten them to wake up.”

“Then I suppose it’s a bad time to point out Cadance is due to have the baby anytime now?” Ono asked.

“Yes it is.” She had to muster up her strength to keep herself from collapsing in devastation once more before remembering the deep breathing exercise Cadance taught her. “If she doesn’t wake up by then, then there won’t be a new baby to look forward to. Going into labor at her current state will definitely kill them both.”

“Hapana! I mean...sorry I…” Ono stuttered before giving up. “...dully noted.”

“It’ll be okay…” Makini attempted to assure with a smile. “...someway somehow we’ll figure something out. We always do. I mean we’ve been in tighter situations before.”

“We have.” Kion replied. “But unlike before with me, when Scar struck them down he infected them with dark energy that’s currently destroying their souls inside. And it took the power of all four alicorns and Kyoga to revive me and as part alicorn alone. So believe me when I tell you I’d be lucky if that happened to me again.”

“I understand.” Makini replied fully knowing of what’s at stake. “And we are trying really hard to help heal them, Twilight, Kion. If only we knew how but we just haven’t figured out the best way to heal them.”

“I know.” Twilight acknowledged and hugged her. “And I appreciate everything you’ve done so far.”

“We all are.” Kion also agreed. “And I’m sure if she were here Celestia would want you here to set a positive example for all of the future magical and powerful unicorns helping spread magic all across Equestria and soon throughout the Pride Lands.”

“Well said…” Twilight said now looking and trying to be more upbeat. “...and don’t forget that you too have your speech to deliver too Kion.”

“I haven’t forgotten about it, Twilight.”

“That is so true!” Bunga exclaimed in excitement himself. “The whole story of how we first met along with how the whole Kumbuka celebration today is all about.” He moved to step up to the podium showing off some of the hand drawn pictures from the paintings back in the Lair of the Guard. “Scar was the worst lion ever to rule the Pride Lands! But he didn't stand a chance against my uncles!” Given that this is Bunga’s usual silliness everyone else chuckled in amusement.

Though Makini given that they are dealing with important and true history moved to correct the honey badger. “What? Timon and Pumbaa? They didn't defeat Scar.”

Kion, Beshte, Twilight, and Ono after getting over that moment of laughs moved to agree with her.

“Makini's right, Bunga.”

“Yeah. Everyone knows King Simba defeated Scar.”

“History doesn’t lie.:

“Common knowledge, really.”

“Pfft!” Bunga scoffed. “Everyone says Simba defeated Scar, but he...”

“That's because it was Simba who defeated Scar.” Makini asserted mid-sentence before displaying the correct slides of her tapping on the paintings which Twilight recorded in preparation for today’s presentation. “When Nala told Simba what Scar had done to the Pride Lands, Simba knew he had to return. So Simba confronted Scar, and defeated him after a big battle.”

Even still Bunga felt the need to argue. “Yeah. But Simba couldn't a done it without my uncles!” Bunga displays the slide of Timon doing the dress and drag while doing the hulu performance alongside Pumbaa. “See? Uncle Timon did a dance for the hyenas.”

Fuli sighed with stoic annoyance at this point. “And... How did that help?”

“It distracted them so they wouldn't help Scar.”

“Yes. And while Timon danced, Simba defeated Scar. And reclaimed the Pride Lands as the true king!” Makini repeated once more with assertive emphasis.

“And that’s what today’s Kumbuka ceremony is all about.” Kion said.

“Yeah, well, you have your story. I have my uncles'.” Bunga commented.

“And while it is an amusing story of theirs, I’m sorry to say that it won’t be included in today’s speech, Bunga.” Twilight politely and gently informed. “Maybe someday but not today.”

“Well, one thing's for sure. Scar was really bad news.” Beshte then said seriously.

“He still is.” Fuli commented in agreement. “And let’s hope we’re ready for what happens next.”

“Let’s hope so.” Ono shuddered hoping the same himself as Scar alone gives him the creeps.

“Me too.” Kion also agreed while hoping himself they don’t have anymore grievances to deal with today.

If only some things are easier said than done, then things would be at peace by now…

...that said and true to everyone's concern, Scar is indeed making plans of his own in preparation for today. The day he has been preparing for all year long.

Today he has summoned Janja, Reirei, Kiburi, Mzingo, Ushari, and Starlight inside the caldera in the Outlands Volcano where he personally informs in his fiery form of what will be going down in the next few hours from now.

“Friends, today, we will end Simba, Luna, and Celestia's reign, and destroy the Lion and Pony Guard.”

Hearing this had them delighted and eager to do their part in it.

“Great!”

“Finally.”

“Yeah.”

“Capital.”

“Tell your followers to be ready.”

“Uh, Scar? Just one question.” Janja spoke up curiously. “How do you…” He quickly corrected himslef. “...We plan on takin' down Simba, and the Lion and Pony Guard in the same day?”

“For once, I gotta agree with the hyena.” Reirei commented once more taking Janja’s side in the matter. “It ain't gonna be easy. Not to mention the still active alicorns hovering around.”

“You can say that again considering I recently tried to take down Simba on my own.” Kiburi also commented in agreement.

“Yes, I know.” Scar acknowledged rather annoyed but still remained confident in his latest plan that’ll ensure all mitigating factors are decisively dealt with. “Which is precisely why I have brought in some help.” He smiled while turning to said help arriving to greet them. “And here it comes now.”

They all turned their heads to greet someone roaring as he crawled inside. Something big, something fierce, something looking rather deadly with black skin and red eyes, something…

...rather small.

“Scorpion!” Janja screamed while leaping onto Reirei, then Starlight, and finally Kiburi’s backs in fright of it. “Look out! Comin' through!”

“Hey!”

“Watch it!”

Both Starlight and Kiburi expressed with annoyance as Scar equally annoyed moved to assure the frightened hyena he has nothing to worry about.

“He's not going to sting you, Janja.”

“Yesss.” Ushari spoke up in agreement. “Sumu's venom is reserved for a more Royal target.”

“A.K.A. King Simba himself.” Starlight added.

Scar nodded in approval before turning back over to the scorpion responsible for carrying out this deadly task. “You know what to do, Sumu.

“And do it, I will.” He vowed while swinging his tail into the ground before heading out to carry out the fiery lion’s orders.

Even with nothing to worry about Janja still couldn’t help but shudder upon seeing this scorpion. “Is he gone yet?” He asked Kiburi.

“Yeah. Now get down.” He moved push the hyena off of his back already getting tired of having to carry his weight as the hyena grunted in pain when it happened.

“The Pride Landers foolishly celebrate today as the day Simba defeated me.” Scar said with bitter resentment that even happened before smiling and perking up with a thirst for revenge coming up. “But soon it will be known as the day I returned once more. And stopped Simba, Celestia, Luna and the Lion and Pony Guard once and for all.” He chuckled evilly before turning to Starlight as his next focus. “And you remember what I taught you, Starlight?”

“Yes. Yes I do.” Starlight returned with an equally malevolent smile as she levitates the envelope Scar gave her the other day along with the written plans the latter got her the following day.

To her and like her master, Starlight Glimmer herself is ready to do her part in taking down the Lion and Pony Guard and the remaining Royal Family as revenge for losing control of the town she once ruled over. And much of that focus is on the one pony who defeated her, Twilight Sparkle.

Sometime later, the whole audience of students along with her Canterlot friends all gathered inside so they can watch as both Twilight and Kion give their speech. After Kyoga and Sunset gave them the all clear message via a telegram through teleportation the two were both ready to begin.

While the Pony Guard minus Twilight were tasked alongside Kyoga and Sunset with keeping watch around them while this was going on, the Lion Guard took front row seats alongside Spike and Moon Dancer, who is also taking notes during the presentation.

"Obviously the long term effects of the simultaneous acquisition of cutie marks has yet to be determined, but…! Ahem, next slide, please."

In the middle of her speech, Twilight cleared her throat to get Spike's attention. Said dragon fell asleep during it.

“Little S.” Beshte gently said to him. “Little S!” He repeated louder who immediately woke up that time around and immediately he quickly changed the slides.

One of which depicted him lounging on a beach before changing to one of the Lion and Pony Guard after Twilight received her castle. Thankfully, nobody else cared nor noticed this. At first the following picture was upside down before he quickly adjusted it before anyone can notice that too.

"I can speak from my own experience that the power of cutie mark magic is very real, and in the instance of my friends and I, it can be traced to a single event!" Twilight explained, as the slide changed to depict each and every one of her friends on the very same day they received their cutie marks, thanks to the miraculous Sonic Rainboom.

"Without Rainbow Dash's race to defend Fluttershy's honor, this rainboom wouldn't have happened. Fluttershy might never have discovered her love of animals. Applejack might never have realized that she belonged on her farm. And Pinkie Pie might never have decided to leave hers. It must be hard to imagine Rarity without her sense of fabulousness. But it's even harder to fathom what my life would be like. Without this rainboom, I might not have gotten into magic school. Celestia wouldn't have taken me on as her pupil or sent me to Ponyville to meet my friends."

She turned to Kion by her side at the podium while nodding at him to allow him to continue her speech next. "The most powerful thing about Cutie Mark Magic that we found is the connection we share with them. A bond so powerful it could transcend even dimensions." The slide changed to depict Kion before he became an alicorn along with another slide of him as a young cub. "Even before I became an alicorn, I had a strong connection with friendship itself. What it’s all about, how it works, and how it affects everyone around me. I didn't know it at the time, but even back before meeting Twilight and becoming the leader of the Lion Guard, friendship has always been strong among us. Between me and my friends, we’ve always had the bond that allowed us to work together as a team, even when as babies.”

The slide changed to show an image of the Lion Guard when they were babies, including Ono before and after he hatched from his egg which were both shown together on the screen. The image then shifted to the Lion Guard just after they officially formed with another slide featuring the Pony Guard just after they formed officially.

“Amazing how a simple friendship between us is what brought us together and it was the very thing that saved Ono’s life that day. And not only that it would go on remain stronger than ever which proved to be crucial in our part of saving Equestria from eternal darkness along with helping create the very first Pony Guard in Pride Lands and Equestria history.”

The slide changed once more to show the image of the stain glass window featuring the Lion and Pony Guard defeating Nightmare Moon.

Twilight then took another turn in speaking. “Ever since then we have fought and against and triumphed many times against the Outsiders while fighting to keep the peace going in both the Pride Lands and Equestria. And with the growing and spreading magic across both kingdoms, the Lion Guard started to earn cutie marks of their own which further help cement and realize their destinies in life just like me and my friends.”

As the speech carried on, Ono’s eyes shifted to the side and caught a glimpse of something to the sides

“Huh?”

He immediately checked again near the top corner of the auditorium along with the roof, seeing a mysterious cloaked figure hiding in the shadows watching the presentation unnoticed. He squinted his eyes noticing the very familiar purple hairs with aquamarine streaks on it. That very color scheme he has seen twice before, and that was something that got him alarmed. Especially when the very familiar purple eyes looked directly at her for a brief second.

“Hapana!” He gasped.

"Ono? Everything okay?" Beshte asked, getting the egrets attention. When he looked back the mysterious pony was gone.

“Uh...yeah...yeah...everything’s okay for now.” He replied rather uneasily.

While Beshte and the other Lion Guard friends were curious of what he meant by that and that he truly saw something unnerving, Ono himself couldn’t help but wonder what the pony he thought he saw was doing here.

"But, the real question about Cutie Mark Magic is who it seems to affect."

Twilight Sparkle's voice was enough to divert the egret along with the rest of the Guard’s attention back to her. And while she did briefly get a glimpse of Ono’s reaction, that is something that’ll have to wait until after the speech is over with it.

Unbeknownst to them said pony, took the time to make a magical phone call to Scar who is listening intently back inside the volcano.

“The speech is underway.” The mare reported.

Hearing this is exactly what Scar wanted to hear. “Good.” He then turned his head towards Sumu’s precise location as he makes his way towards Pride Rock where the upcoming celebration is to be held. “Proceed, Sumu!” He told in a whisper in his ear who nodded in response before continuing on to do his thing.

Later back in Ponyville...

"Starlight Glimmer?" Kion asked once they left Canterlot and were on their way to Twilight's castle so they can drop off the things they don’t need before heading on out to join the others at Pride Rock for today’s Kumbuka celebration.

"I know it sounds crazy, but I think she was there."

“You sure?”

“Absolutely sure! The purple hair with aquamarine blue streaks along with the purple eyes that go with it. For a split second I was able to catch that before she was gone.”

“I believe you.” Twilight said knowing full well that he is telling the truth. “And yet this is still very disturbing news.”

“I wonder what she could up to this time?” Bunga wondered.

"Nothing good, I bet." Spike replied with narrowed eyes. "I heard she wasn't very happy the last time you saw her."

“Define what you mean by last time.” Bunga spoke up unsure of what specific ax she has to grind with Twilight about. “Defeating and beating her up once she was exposed as the creepy cult leader, or when Sunset managed to beat her another time, along with the time both Kion and Twilight beat her while trying to distract them?”

“All of the above.” Fuli replied as she begins thinking more about what Bunga just said. “And with all things considered she is really getting off on her rocker more and more ever since we first met her.”

“You’re right.” Kion agreed. “But we did what we had to do in all of those instances.”

"Forcing everypony in her village to have the same cutie mark wasn't right. We had to do something!" Twilight further justified.

“And if my hunch is right, then Starlight Glimmer is coming back for revenge!” Bunga further said with great certainty. But he looked on and stopped himself once he noticed Ono and Twilight trembling in fright in place at the very idea. “Uh I mean, or she was just really interested in your speech!"

While Ono was really shaking in fright, Twilight however had a sudden gut feeling inside of her like she just came to a horrifying conclusion.

"Honestly I'm not really sure what I saw." Ono commented as he tried to calm himself down before suffering an anxiety attack.

“As long as we have each other, I know everything will be all right." Kion assured his nervous friends before turning back to the lavender mare. “Right, Twilight? Twilight?!”

Said mare quickly rushed off ahead to the castle with so much adrenaline kicking in right now to the point she left behind a cloud shape of herself behind.

“I think she just realized what Starlight is up to.” Bunga commented.

“You think?!” Fuli returned rather annoyed before following after Twilight with the same speed she took off with.

“Let’s go!” Kion commanded of the others before quickly catching up with both Twilight and Fuli with the others quick to follow after them.

At the same time the very dark looking figure with red eyes seems to have his eyes locked on another royal target as he watches from just above the ground while the Lion Guard along with Twilight head on over to the castle.

Twilight and Fuli were the first to arrive at the castle with Kion arriving seconds later. But by then, the former’s sudden worries were proven true as soon as she opened the doors and found what she feared. Both Kion and Fuli also gasped in shock with what they are seeing in front of them.

“But come on!” Bunga tried to call out to the others in an effort to backpedal what he just said. “Starlight Glimmer coming with an evil plot for revenge even while knowing that she can’t take on and win a fight against Twilight and Kion! That’s so silly!”

"Or it's totally true!" Ono said otherwise once he and the others arrived on the scene in order to see what everyone else is seeing…

Starlight Glimmer waiting for them while lounging on Fluttershy’s throne with her back legs lifted up onto the table and her front hooves against the back of her head, smugly and arrogantly smirking as always.

"Welcome home, Twilight!"

“I knew it!” Ono exclaimed with wide eyed fright.

Twilight was the first to react by spreading open her wings, flaring her nostrils and stomping her hoof to assert her authority as someone who shouldn’t be messed with.

"You again, Starlight?! What do I have to do to get a restraining order to truly defeat you for good?!"

“Now, now, Twilight. That won’t be necessary. After all you arrived just in time for the true party taking place today, and both you and Kion are the guests of honor.”

With her horn glowing, stronger than ever before, she levitated a scroll into the air. The paper itself began to glow before shooting a beam of light towards the rounded table which revealed the three dimensional map of Equestria.

"What are you doing?!" Kion demanded with his wings spread out, horn flared, and with a gritted teeth growl. While he fiercely stood by Twilight’s side the others got in fighting stances ready to fight her when necessary. And considering she’s harder and tougher than most of the Outsiders combined they are still not going to underestimate her this time around.

“Watch and learn, prince of fire.” She levitated the scroll and crumpled it before tossing aside to the floor. "Won't be needing that any more."

As the now crumpled up piece of paper rolled over to the ground the map suddenly reacted. A powerful wind surrounding them, making their tails, fur and manes bellow against it as bright rings began to emerge from the map itself. Twilight attempted to shoot at it with her magic but the beams only deflected her attempts instead.

The beams merged together from above and a large round opening suddenly tore open with a transparent dome appearing over it surrounded by clocks with stars. Starlight's eyes gleamed with ambition intent as the sound of clocks ticking as the clocks around the orb moved to showcase various different times. Bright bolts of lightning began shooting from the inside.

Starlight's body began to glow, becoming surrounded by her own magical aura. She smiled wickedly at her foes, gave them a taunting salute before pushing her body forward and entered the vortex, which magically closed and disappeared right before their very eyes. The winds ceased and everything seemed to look the same as before but Starlight Glimmer was now gone.

"Where'd she go?" Spike asked, looking up to where the unicorn had disappeared to.

"I don't know.” Kion replied trying to figure out the answer to the question herself before turning her attention to the scroll Starlight had left behind. “But I think I have a pretty good idea it had something do with the spell she had just used.”

“You mean this piece of paper?” Bunga asked as he approached it. "I guess we could start with this!" He commented while picking up the crumpled up scroll Starlight had just thrown away.

"Bunga, no! Don't touch that!"

The moment his claws made contact with the scroll, the spears around the map emerged once more and the vortex Starlight had just escaped to opened once more. Suddenly, the scroll unraveled and the powerful winds began to pull Bunga and the scroll upwards to the vortex. He tried to fight it but couldn’t stand his ground against it’s strength.

“Bunga!”

“Little B!”

Kion wasted no time in rushing forward and leaping up on Beshte’s back in an effort to grab him with the both Ono then Fuli, and Twilight also leaping forward grabbing onto each other tail to tail, leg to leg, paw to paw while Beshte tries to firmly plant himself to the ground in an effort to resist the vortex’s power.

Twilight tried her hardest in using her magic to stop the vortex from sucking them inside along with Kion grunting with all of his might to save everyone around them but it’s power was just too much for them. That along with Kion’s magical concentration being broken when he felt something painful in his tail to the point he suddenly didn’t feel well as soon as it happened. He ended up passing out but was quickly caught by his best friend Twilight grabbing him before he could fall just when the vortex closed up after they were all sucked inside.

What everyone doesn’t know of what really happened was that Sumu the scorpion had managed to sneak his way in the castle and ended up injecting his deadly venom in Kion’s system just before he was sucked up inside the vortex. How he managed to avoid getting caught in the vortex is anyone’s guess.

The group held onto one another as tightly as they could. Bunga held onto Ono who in return held onto Spike as they all screamed together. Fuli held paws and hooves with Twilight who is still hanging onto the now unconscious Kion with no way of knowing what had just happened when they have no idea where the vortex is taking them as they pass through an hourglass along the way. At the bottom of the group Beshte is trying his hardest to remain calm by positioning himself underneath the group ready to plant his feet into the ground so he can ensure his friends have a safe landing on top of him. It wasn’t too long before an opening at the very end of the spectrum.

They saw daylight, blue skies and flurry clouds, but to them, not quite what they’d expect it to appear.

The vortex finally opened and the group fell from the portal, which closed in mid air thus causing them all to fall down at a high speed. Thinking fast, Twilight used her magic to create a large pink dome below them so that Beshte doesn’t break his legs upon landing. After struggling to hold onto to both Spike and Bunga his grip gave out leading to them to fall down towards the dome.

“WHOA!” Both screamed.

“Hapana!”

Luckily for him, the two landed safely not that it helped Ono’s mind to be put at ease. He still felt a bit shaken up inside feeling had it not been for Twilight’s magic can through to their aid once again it could have gone down a whole lot fatal.

“We’re okay!” They both stated in assurance.

Twilight was able to hold to her grip on both Fuli and Kion with the former noticing that her friend isn’t doing well right now as they all landed gently onto the nearby ground below them. Said ground happens to be a runway, one that looks very familiar to the group of friends wondering what had just happened.

The very first matter of business is Twilight and Fuli both tending to Kion who doesn’t seem to be waking up.

“Kion! Are you okay?!”

“What happened?!”

“My...tail…” He briefly and weakly uttered just when the others rushed on over in concern for one of their best friends.

Twilight turned her head towards his tail and ended up finding the red bump the scorpion’s sting had left behind. She gasped upon realizing and recognizing what had happened. “You have been stung by a scorpion.”

“And judging from the look of that sting it’s got to be from one of the most deadliest in all of the Savannah!” Ono further deduced upon further inspecting the sting mark that was left behind.

“Not just one of the most deadliest Ono, the deadliest in the Savannah.” Twilight corrected. “This is Sumu’s doing.”

“Sumu?”

“Who’s he?”

Both Bunga and Beshte curiously asked.

“And how do you know him?” Fuli also asked equally curious and somewhat suspicious for this recently accurate knowledge shared with them.

Twilight looked around the group of friends who are expecting the truth out of her this time around while mentally berating herself for her own personal slip of the tongue. After exchanging looks similar to when her pony friends did to her when asked about her knowledge of Nightmare Moon, Twilight moved to confess how she knows him.

“Back when I was working with Scar, I was scouting the Outlands for new recruits to join his army. During one of my scouts, I nearly came across his deadly stinger at one point when I first met him.” She recalled said memory where she was trotting along the Outlands pathway when she heard the scorpion’s voice call out to him.

“Hey!” She froze in her tracks and found her front hooves just an inch away from the scorpion’s stinger. “Watch where you’re going!”

“Oh! I’m so sorry!” She quickly scooted herself a few steps back to avoid getting stung herself with a nervous and sheepishly forced grin. “Good thing you warned me when you did, otherwise that could have ended pretty bad for me.”

“Not to mention deadly.” He further emphasized his point by nearly stabbing the alicorn on the tail to which she swiftly and instinctively had it dodge the stinger. “If I had actually stung you’d be dead right on the spot. If lucky should someone take you to the volcano over there you’d live to tell of the tale of how you survived it.”

“Really? You don’t say.” Twilight remarked sounding impressed with her sudden discovery. “Well, now that you mentioned it, I happen to know a friend who would really be interested in properly utilizing this special talent of yours. Maybe perhaps on someone who you have a beef with or a grudge against?”

“Yes…” He commented rather darkly as he has a mindset filled with venomous intent. “...I do.”

“Do you?” Twilight deviously smiled liking what she is learning about him already. “Well, lucky for you said friend of mine is around and would be very interested in investing in your services that this if you are equally interested as well.”

Sumu slammed his stinger into the ground once more to cement his decision. “I’m in!”

“Perfect!” Twilight moved to shake Sumu before quickly going for the delicate approach on the tail to avoid touching his stinger again with the former apologetically smiling once more before it turns into a more dark and pleased one. “If you would just huddle together with me, we’ll get on over inside the volcano where my friend should be at and will be very eager to meet you.”

Sumu did as she asked just when Twilight worked her magic in doing a teleportation spell on over there.

Inside the volcano, Twilight appeared right inside the caldera where Scar turns around from looking on at the boiling lava pit as he sees her along with the new Outsider she has just met.

“Ah, Sumu.”

“Scar.”

"Welcome back."

The two shook each other paw to stinger while Twilight looks on curiously that the two are well acquainted with one another before meeting each other.

“You two know each other?”

“Of course, Twilight.” Scar confirmed with a nod. “Sumu here was an old friend of mine back when I was a teenager during my Lion Guard years or more accurately during the time I took many patrols on my own. We met each other on during one of those patrols where I happen to come across him face to face.”

He recalled meeting up with him just after he had killed the strange lion and his cobra companion who is responsible for giving him his scar and killing his mother along with painting him as the bad guy who his family and friends turned on back when trying to act all friendly and stuff.

“Hey!” He barked just when the fuming lion striding right past him when they were walking in opposite directions. “In a hurry!”

“Sorry, I was just taking care of some needed justice to someone who deserved it.” He replied as he briefly stopped and turned back to face him.

“Uovu along with sneaky snake ally? Sounds about right considering I just heard you roaring at something or someone while causing that volcano over there to erupt.” He pointed his stinger towards said volcano that is now covered with lava. “Along with the fact that he took away something you used to care about. Hit you where it hurt.”

“And how would you know something like that?”

“Pride Lands gossip spreads fast and there is the fact with what I heard and saw that I can read you just like a fiery flame. And from what I’ve also heard is that your family never understood you, Your friends they all turned your backs on you. You couldn’t take it anymore and you’ve decided you no longer want anything to do with them.”

Scar looks on impressed. “Wow! Three out of three! Impressive!”

“I’ve seen it enough to know what’s what. So now that you have taken care of the traitor’s to the crown, what are you going to do now?”

“Much like with earlier, I still have more justice I need to carry out.” He answered as he looked on ahead in Pride Rock’s direction. “The very much needed kind of justice.”

“Sounds interesting. Ever thought of taking up others who would be willing to help you?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean considering you’re going up against a mighty prince and a very powerful king of the beasts, it would certainly be a very daring task to challenge them.”

“It would but there would no way the rest of the Guard would be willing to side with me when it is clear they prefer and favor Mufusa more.”

“Then why stop there when they have to listen to you since you’re their leader. You don’t have to rely on the king or the prince to tell you or them what to do when you have the power to command them into doing what you think is right. Even if they don’t care about what you want, you have the right to do of what you think is best for everyone especially yourself.”

Scar gave it some good thought and after a minute of thinking he decided that he was right. At this point he is done listening to what any of his friends, his father, along with his brother have to say about what is best for everyone. They didn’t trust nor cared about what he had to say and because of it the queen, their mother is now dead. So why should he continue to follow their orders in the name of what they define as “good.”?

“You’re a very smart scorpion.” Scar said to him with a pleased smile as he held out his bared paw so they can shake on a deal together. “In fact, I would feel honored if you’re also willing to help.”

“Anything for the true and rightful king, your majesty.” He replied while returning the shake in kind.

“Excellent.”

“And before I forget my name’s Sumu, Askari.”

“Please…” The lion politely insisted. “Call me Scar.”

As the two shook on it, from there a partnership was formed. One that would help carry out Ahadi’s last day of life when it is clear he has nothing else to live for in life with all that has happened, leading to his own son taking his life once the poison had done it’s work.

Back in the present, everyone is now fully processing what Twilight had just told them.

“When he told me of how they met he never specified what kind of deal they made together. It is only after he casually slipped out that he personally killed his ill father of what it truly was.”

“Whoa!”

“Un-Bunga-veilable!”

“Didn’t see that coming!”

“Me neither!”

“At least that now explains half of what’s going on now.” Twilight solemnly explained mentally berating herself for introducing Sumu to Scar in the first place. “And it took this long for Scar to actual utilize Sumu’s venom against one of us, soon to be two, actually.” She then turned to their sick friend with such sorrow. “Oh, Kion. I am sorry this happened to you. You and your dad.”

“Don’t worry, Twilight. It’s all in the past. Right now we just need to focus on the best course of action from here so we can stop Scar and Starlight and save both Kion and Simba.” Fuli quickly assured they have no hard feelings directed at her for what she did back then. “We’ll get through this I promise you.”

“Like my dad always says “You can’t dwell on the past too much, only keep moving forward with the present looking ahead into the future.”” Beshte optimistically added.

Now Twilight felt better with moving forward. “Thanks.”

"So now that we know what is going on, where are we?" Bunga asked, looking at their surroundings as he was already to move forward with the issue at hoof and paw.

“Well Bunga, it’s…” Ono tried to answer before being cut off mid-sentence.

The honey badger’s eyes widen as he suddenly realized. “What a second! I recognize this place! It’s Cloudsdale!”

“Yes, it is Cloudsdale, congratulations Bunga.” He commented rather stunned for once that he managed to figure it out that fast, again.

"Starlight doesn't even have wings!" Spike commented. "Why would she come here?"

“My best guess is that she is here to try to ruin something here on Scar’s orders.” Twilight commented as she tried to further understand and analyze the other half of Scar’s plan. “But what exactly?

“And how can she fly with just magic?” Fuli asked equally confused as everyone else gathered around them.

"I don't know, Fuli. But the answer is here somewhere." Twilight replied as she still tries to sort everything out by analyzing the scene around them.

Just then the answer came speeding right past them to the point both Spike and Bunga nearly fell to the ground through the clouds.

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!”

Luckily for them, both Twilight and Fuli were quick to whisk them away from the edge of the runway.

“Whew!”

“Thanks!”

“You’re welcome!”

“No problem!” Turning her attention back to the speedy filly she suddenly recognized something familiar. “And was that Rainbow Dash?”

Spike pulled out his binoculars from his backpack so he can take a closer look himself. “Looks like it.”

“Let me see!” Bunga snatched the binoculars as he took a look himself. “Oh holy Timon! It is Rainbow Dash!”

"Did she look really young to you?" Twilight asked, with her tone filled with worry. "And I didn't see a cutie mark…" She then realized with a gasp. “Sweet Celestia! That’s it! The Sonic Rainboom!”

“What do you mean?” Spike seized back the binoculars to get a closer look at the young Rainbow Dash talking to a couple of young colts, while defending a young Fluttershy. Both are indeed without their cutie marks. "Oh! It is her! And Fluttershy. Only, filly Fluttershy. You don't think…"

"…We traveled back in time to when Rainbow Dash raced the bullies who made fun of Fluttershy and performed her first sonic Rainboom? But that also means..." Ono also concluded, his eyes widening in horror,."Oh great King Simba! We traveled back in time!"

“But how?” Fuli asked. “I thought that was a very rare hard to achieve kind of spell?”

"She can't!" Twilight answered. "Only Star Swirl the Bearded could do something like that, and even his spell just went back a week! How could Starlight do more than the greatest wizard in Equestria?"

The sound of paper rustling caught their attention and Spike lifted up the scroll that Starlight used to make it possible.

"With this."

Twilight's eyes widened as she read the words in silence, her wings slightly raising up in alarmed awareness. "Star Swirl's spell! Oh no!"

"But why would Starlight bring us to this specific moment?" Beshte asked.

“So she can stop the moment it all happened!” Twilight exclaimed in horror. “The very moment of what allowed me and the other girls to obtain our cutie marks at the exact same time and the very moment that had you all working as a team together for the first time.”

“When I was saved by the hyenas as an unborn egg” Ono asked as Twilight nodded with her face still looking on in horror. “But if that’s what she’s here for then…” He then gasped. “Hapana! Then I’ll never be born!”

“Then that also means we will never meet the Pony Guard!”

“And that both the Pride Lands and Equestria will never be together as one!”

The others realized as the horrifying gasps come out when it all sinks in just how massive a change like this was have on everyone going forward.

“Oh, no! We have to stop her!” Bunga was quick to rush on ahead before being frozen in place by Twilight. “Hey! What gives?!”

“Like before, blending in without sticking out and scaring the fillies here.” She replied before working her magic to make proper disguises so they won’t cause too much of an alarm here in Cloudsdale.

With a bright sparkling glow, his along with Ono, Beshte, Fuli’s, and Kion’s bodies were all covered in her magical magenta aura. In a sudden bright flash the crew all had new appearances. Pegasus pony appearances where the Lion Guard all had the same body color and eyes, with manes and tails in their place.

Fuli had a short brown top with a long brown tail with yellow streaks. Beshte has a plump appearance with a short black mane and tail. Bunga has a medium length white mane and tail. Ono’s much like Beshte is a short mane and tail with the hair on his white body being orange much like his feathers. Spike has a slighty chubby body with a purple body and a short green mane and tail. Kion’s red mane and tail is just as long as Twilight’s while the alicorn herself appeared nearly the same with the sole exception being is that her scar has vanished.

“Wow!” She commented to herself upon seeing herself without her scar though she is perfectly aware that it’ll reappear in time. “Never thought I’d see myself like this anytime soon.”

“Me neither.” Fuli agreed as she examined her pony body while floating from the ground, given that she has had some flight experience having wings once before. “Along with appearing like a pony myself.”

“No kidding!”

“Poa!”

“Interesting.”

Spike however shrugged in response. “Eh. I’ve seen better.”

“Cool!” Bunga remarked already liking his new pony appearance before moving to take lead. “Well what are we waiting for? Let’s go!”

"Go where?" Fuli asked.

"To watch the race. I don't wanna miss the Rainboom! Whoa!" Because he didn’t watch where he was going he ended tripping and nearly fell off of the runway and was left clinging on for dear life. “Twilight, a little help please?”

“Of course.” She then motioned towards the wings on his back with a stoic and deadpan look to which had the honey badger chuckling in embarrassment upon realizing he has the power of flight on his side here.

“Oh right!”

By flapping really hard he was able to lift himself up off of the ground and continued on.

With Twilight’s guidance, she was able to help Bunga and Beshte fly up to some nearby clouds when they struggled to gain control over their flight with both Fuli and Ono there to assist them. Ono already a flyer from birth had no trouble adjusting to his Pegasus body. And as for Kion well due to still being unconsciousness and ill from the scorpion’s sting is still being carried by Twilight who would frequently look on in worry for his well-being.

With volcanic ash being the only remedy that can cure him and with time against them, she needs to personally wish that she can defeat Starlight and get back to the present so she can stop Scar from succeeding in killing him and his father along with the rest of the Royal Family. Otherwise, the road will be paved and set for an easy take-over by his army.

After a much needed adjustment period, Twilight and the Lion Guard have all managed to find some suitable clouds for them to land on so they can all watch the race unfold. And once more, Twilight looked on at Kion in worry while steeling her emotional nerves so they can focus on the task at hoof.

“Hang in there, Kion.” Twilight gently said in his direction just when Fuli turns her attention towards them equally concerned and worried.

“We’ll get you healed as soon as possible.” Fuli added to which had the young lion barely moaning in pain yet unable to utter a word in reply.

“And we’ll get both Starlight and Scar to pay for this too!” Bunga furiously stated with pounded fists.

Just then the young Fluttershy held the flag in her mouth, signaling the racers to start. The young Rainbow Dash and her opponents, the bullies who teased Fluttershy, flew right past her so fast that she ended up spinning around and falling from the cloud she was standing on.

“Fluttershy!” On instinct, Ono readied to go and catch her, only to be stopped by Twilight, who silently reminded him that it has to play out like this and that she’ll be all right. Even still, seeing her fall is still a very hard sight to watch. Especially when he could have saved her .

Their attention returned to the speedy little Rainbow Dash, who was off to an early lead ahead of her opponent while the other fillies cheered her name loudly and repetitively. They flew across several clouds with many twists and turns where one of the bullies lost his balance and collided with a cloud. With him out of the race it was now down to both Rainbow Dash and Hoops.

Rainbow smiled while feeling the wind of her face and the adrenaline inside of her kicking in. But during this, she was suddenly and fiercely shoved aside by Hoops, who laughed and saluted mockingly before flying off.

"Heh. Later, Rainbow Crash!"

"Hey!" In response to the bully’s cheating, Rainbow flapped faster than before, gaining so much speed that she was gaining momentum in being able to create the Sonic Rainboom.

But, one unicorn who managed to make her way around the clouds unnoticed was not about to let it happen. Unlike her foes, Starlight's pony body remained the same as it did before the portal open, making her be the only one who doesn’t blend in with the others, but even still she didn’t care about her appearance in the slightest. She slid from a cloud, smiling wickedly, levitating her body with her own magic as she prepared to her part in destroying the Lion and Pony Guard’s friendship.

"Aww, sorry about this!"

Rainbow was only seconds away from performing the rainbow but just as the sound barrier was about to break, Starlight shot a magic beam, freezing the pony in mid-flight.

"Hey! What gives?"

The foals cheered when Hoops reached the finish line, and there was no sign of a Rainboom anywhere in sight. And already it’s ripple effect was already going underway.

Without the Rainboom, Fluttershy's animals had no reason to be scared, and thus she couldn't comfort them in any away and so they left much to her saddened shock.

Applejack looked on at the dreary city of Manehattan, the clouds looking as gray as her soul. There was nothing for her to look at out there so she closed the curtain behind her, never seeing her home nor wanting to return in a long time.

Pinkie rolled the rocks on her family's farm and looked up at the sky. There was nothing for her to smile about around here, and there never will be ever in her life going forward.

Rarity had followed her magic towards a giant boulder in the middle of nowhere. But, without a loud noise to break it apart in order to reveal the beautiful gemstones inside of it to use for her school play costumes, the unicorn tossed the rock off the cliff and walked away unsatisfied and with great disappointment.

Twilight Sparkle tried and tried as hard as she could, but there was no spark to make herself activate her own magic. No reaction or anything. She couldn't open the dragon egg, and thus she could not get into magic school. And she never became Celestia's student.

But while all of these events were happening in Equestria, somewhere in the Savannah, the young group of children were all left defeated with the hyenas all running off with Ono’s egg. Without the power of teamwork along with the Sonic Rainboom’s influence around to give them that much needed boost, the Lion Guard never came to be as much as the Pony Guard’s creation and friendship never happened.

At that moment in the current timeline Princess Luna gasped with sudden chest pain due to feeling this magical disturbance.

Twilight too felt the same pain as she nearly stumbled and collapsed nearly dropping Kion when it happened.

“What’s going on?!”

“Twilight!”

Fuli was quick to help catch Kion before he could fall while helping her back up to her hooves with everyone else moving to help her steady her footing until she could regain her balance.

“Are you okay?!”

“I’m fine.” With her fury ignited once more she spread out her wings and moved to quickly tackle the unicorn responsible for preventing the Sonic Rainboom and causing this catastrophic ripple in time.

"What did you do?!"

Starlight Glimmer only smiled in triumph feeling she has now succeeded with what she has done. "You are about to find out."

The powerful winds surrounded the group of friends once more and the time vortex opened above their head, sucking in Twilight, Spike, Kion, Fuli, Beshte, Bunga, and Ono along with it.

The friends (sans Kion) screamed as they fell from the portal, landing hard on the ground. The spell Twilight had cast wore off and their bodies returned to their original animal forms with Twilight’s scar reappearing.

"Aww! I just getting used to that body!" Bunga sadly remarked as he wiggles his fingers while clenching them as if they were pony hooves.

Twilight rubbed her head, realizing she had landed on some kind of chair. Her eyes widened when she saw the Cutie Map in front of her. Only problem is that it’s not exactly the same Cutie Map in the correct timeline. Instead of it’s calm and cool shade of bright blue, was a tainted and bloody shade of red. She studied the map, realizing that the Crystal Empire was now and somehow, have taken over half of Equestria.

“Oh, no!”

“What is it? What happened?!” Ono anxiously asked.

“Look!” Twilight pointed her hoof towards where she is looking where everyone else all gasped in shocked when they fully processed their surroundings.

While Equestria still looked as it did a few moments ago in Cloudsdale, flash like appearance and all, only…

The Castle was missing!!

Author's Note

Before I begin, I will point out the obvious. For starters, both the Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting have been combined for a four part story for the season finale. And second, and most importantly new scenes that happened during Divide and Conquer to be addressed before getting into the Cutie Remark mainly what happened while the Lion and Pony Guard were occupied dealing with the distractions in the Pride Lands.

With that, I have also decided that the Lion Guard would be accompanying Twilight while dealing with Starlight while Sunset and Kyoga remain in the Pride Lands with the Pony Guard as they deal the upcoming Kumbuka Celebration where they will have do to everything in their power to stay on guard for whatever Scar is up to. That said, too bad there are little things that even they can't be prepared for. Especially when little things have deadly venom hidden inside of them.

Onto the alternate timeline plot, we do get starter looks of what consequences the Rainboom not happening has on the Lion Guard aside from them never meeting the Pony Guard and their world. Without the rainbow, Janja and his hyenas got away with Ono's egg and he was never born, thus the team was never created. As for what other consequences have occurred without the Rainboom's ripple effect on the Pride Lands? The first of many will follow in Part Two...

Episode 40: The Cutie Remark and The Scorpion's Sting Part Two

Episode 40:

The Cutie Remark and The Scorpion's Sting Part Two

"Where's your castle, Twilight?" Beshte asked in worry once he and the others saw that said castle is now gone. They were all standing in the exact same place the castle once stood where they last were in the present, but all they found was the map glowing an evil shade of blood red and a few broken chairs surrounding it, unquestionably the Lion and Pony Guard’s thrones, only without their cutie marks and appeared to have been abandoned for years.

“It’s gone!” Ono exclaimed as he looks on horrified by what has happened to Equestria. "The map! It pulled us back...all because of what Starlight did in the past, changed things here!"

"But why?" Bunga asked, "And how did we get here? Where's here?"

"More like when." Twilight answered, levitating the scroll from her satchel, unfolding it. "Starlight altered Star Swirl's spell, then somehow used it on the map to travel into the past and change something! Once she did, the map pulled us back to the present!"

“So you mean to tell me that we are now in the present expect different due to Starlight changing the past so that the Sonic Rainboom never happened along with the many things we did together including what became of our pony friends, along with Ono never being born, and Twilight never became Celestia’s personal protege?!”

“Yep.” She replied Big Mac Style.

“But how are you still an alicorn?!” He raised his arms towards where her wings are.

“Probably because there’s some specific magic involved to prevent that from happening.” Fuli deduced while turning to Twilight with hope they have breathing room to work with here. “Assuming there isn’t a time frame involved in how long we have to fix everything before it’s too late."

“Yes and no.” Twilight replied. “Yes we have plenty of time to stop Starlight from permanently altering the past but we have until sunset to do so.”

“Why?”

“Because the scorpion’s venom will become fatal if not pulled out by then, not to mention the fact that same can be said for the rest of the Royal Family. If Princess Celestia, Luna, Cadance, Kion, and Shining Armor don’t pull through then Scar will succeed in destroying the Lion and Pony Guard in the true present day timeline and taking over the Pride Lands and Equestria.”

Ono was left confused. “But how would that happen if…” Ono then gasped as he realized what his plan really is. “Hapana! Because the scorpion might be after Luna too and the rest of the Pony Guard will heading on over to the only nearby volcano! Which means it’s all another trap for them! One they’ll never make out of alive!” Ono added in further realization. “We have get back to the present and warn them!”

“We can’t!” Twilight shook her head. “If we leave we might never be allowed to come back here and fix it and we’ll be just leaving a psychotic unicorn forever tampering with time with who knows what she’ll want to alter in our lives while she is at it!”

“Oh!” Ono groaned realizing they too are trapped here as along as Starlight’s around in the past too. “Buck me!”

“I guess in the meantime we now have to focus on what’s changed here.” Bunga moved to look at the nearby Cutie Map. “And judging from how the Crystal Empire has taken over half of Equestria this sure is a big one.”

“Look!” Fuli pointed towards another map where the Pride Lands is standing only it appears to be literally scorched Earth with Outsiders spread out around the area. “There’s Scar himself!” He pointed to said lion roaring on Pride Rock after proclaiming victory over the kingdom he now rules in.

“Whoa!” Beshte commented feeling even more worried than before. “Looks like this got a lot more bigger than we could imagine.”

“You’re right, Beshte.” Twilight said in agreement. "This is too big to handle on our own."

"You think?" Spike replied sarcastically.

"We need to find our friends and get help!"

“But where are they?” Fuli asked. “With this being a new timeline where the Rainboom never really happened. If none of them discovered their true passion then they could be anywhere in Equestria.”

"That is true and I don't know either. But we have to at least try and find the others. Hopefully, they'll be willing to help."

The group headed towards Ponyville with Twilight still carrying Kion around, where it looked nothing like it did before. No ponies were around, no laughter in the horizon, no joy, not even color. Everything around them was tinted with a faint red color. The houses of the ponies were shattered, torn, broken and pieces wood were nailed on the windows. The only sound they could hear where the sound of crows, flapping around them, taking what little food and scraps they could find on the ground. Even the plant life looked in just as bad shape as the town itself along with when Scar was in charge of the Pride Lands.

Spike noticed a pony looking out from her window and happily waved her a friendly hello. To his surprise and shock, the pony hid herself away by closing the curtains. This was very odd and peculiar for Spike to experience, since he knew nearly every pony in town and they had come to love him in return. It’s pretty clear to him something is wrong if this is the reaction he is getting from everyone here.

"I'm gettin' a bad feeling about this…" He commented as he kept himself closer to his friends.

"I've never seen Ponyville like this." Bunga remarked sadly before stopping in front of the bridge and the lake that once sprung beautiful clear water was now practically dried up. “How do ponies live when the place is like this? It’s just so un-bunga-veiable.” Only when he said this time around it wasn’t with joy like when he would always say it this time around.

"I know, Bunga, but this is Ponyville!" Twilight said, trying her best to sound optimistic about it. "How bad could things be?"

“How about very bad.” Ono commented while pointing towards a building he recognized, which only instead of a cupcake, it had bread on the roof, no longer did it look like the bakery shop they knew in the true timeline but instead a worn out, broken down, out of business, bread shop.

"Is that Sugarcube Corner?" Beshte asked, not fully believing what he is seeing. Just seeing what has now become of the building caused him to look on in devastated heartbreak as he could feel and hear Pinkie’s genuine laughter in his head. “What happened?”

“I wish I knew.” Fuli remarked not with sarcasm but with genuine sympathetic pity.

Just then Spike gasped in shock and ran ahead towards a familiar store that looked a lot like the Ponyville Boutique store only it was another abandoned building much like the rest of Ponyville. The doors were closed up by wood and the plants that once grew around it were all dead.

Spike knocked on the door, but when nopony answered he started banging hard, peeking into the holes of the wood but found the entire place was empty. Manikins stood unattended and pieces of fabric were shrouded with cobwebs and spiders scrawling all around.

"Rarity? Rarity?!" The dragon desperately called out, but alas there was no reply.

"I don't think she's here, Spike!" Twilight sadly told him. "I'm not sure anything we know is the same!" The princess hung her head in sadness, mirroring the look on her friend’s face along with dealing with Kion’s predicament hanging over her shoulders. The once beautiful home they had come to love and enjoy while living there together, was gone. It was as if the peace and harmony ad never happened. But even still Twilight was not about to give up. She still had an idea.

"But I know one place that could never change!"

As soon as they arrived at one said place. They find that Twilight’s hopeful words were once more proved wrong as in the place of where they expected a farm was a giant factory instead.

The group dropped there jaws at the sight. Sweet Apple Acres was now turned into a smoke spewing factory. Metal pillars stood tall from the back of the barn, releasing smoke that covered nearly the entire farm in a gloomy haze. This was not what they were expecting at all.

“I’m sorry, Twilight. What did you say? That the one place you think didn’t change is where this smokey and stinky factory is?” Fuli sarcastically asked.

“At least I thought it did.” Twilight defended before leading the way in order to investigate the place. “Come on.”

“And I’ll be ready to teach those two con ponies another lesson?” Fuli added furiously as she was the first to follow after her.

The group made their way into the farm, towards one of the windows, which was covered in dark dust due to the ongoing pollution from the factory. The group wiped the dust off and peeked inside. And much to their surprise, it wasn’t Flim and Flam doing all of this but it was actually...the Apple Family themselves.

Machines grinding, squeaking, hissing and rumbling as apples were squished into machines and shoved into tin cans via assembly line. Working inside were Big Mac and his sister Applejack, looking like they would do every day, only with full brown body suits and hair nets on their manes and tails. Big Mac wore a mask over his mouth while looking at a clipboard in his hoof while his sister, who also wore a mask, walked outside to roll a barrel outside. She lowered her mask once she did, though given that there is not much fresh air to take in, she’s better off keeping it on anyway, all while wearing a stoic look on her face as she does her work.

"Applejack!" Bunga happily moved to embrace the pony up, with a hug around the neck. “Oh I’m so glad we found you I…” Suddenly he was forced off with a bounce then bucked to the side. “...found you.” He groaned out of breath due being kicked in the gut. “Wow, you’re still strong.”

“No question about that.” The country pony stated with a stern look before asking and demanding of the others. “And just who the hay are you folks?! Because if you’re here for trouble you got it!”

"Applejack, wait!" Beshte called out, while stomping on in front of Bunga. “Please? Remember me?”

“A hippo. I ain’t recalling ever befriending a hippo before in my life.” Beshte looked on sadly in response to that verbal sting. “Now is anybody going to explain to me what this is all about?!”

“Applejack! We mean no harm!” Twilight said, raising her hoof as a sign of peace. Beshte moved Bunga back to his feet as he rubbed his stomach, still feeling the pain from the kick. "We came because we knew you'd still be here."

"Of course I am. This is my home." Applejack said, getting back to work by rolling the barrel towards a wagon filled with them.

"So, do you know where Pinkie or Rarity or Fluttershy or Rainbow Dash are?" Twilight asked hopefully.

The country pony shook her head, "No. Who in tarnation is Pinkie Bow and Flutterdash? Or any of you for that matter? And, why do ya'll look so weird?" she asked, examining their appearances, which severely contrasts to the world’s current apperance.

"You… don't know who we are?" The princess realized with lowered and saddened ears.

"Nope." Applejack stoically replied as she rolled over yet another barrel, "Honestly, the only name I recognize is Rarity, but she left for Manehattan years ago."

"Probably to become a world-famous fashion designer, I bet!" Spike hopefully guessed.

"Not that I know of. Last I heard she went to help with the cause like everypony else." Applejack closed the lid on the wagon once all the barrels were perfectly placed.

"The cause?" Fuli asked curiously.

"The war against King Sombra and the Crystal Empire?"

"What?!" the group exclaimed in shock, still mind-boggled with what they had just heard.

“A war?!”

“Going on?!”

“Here in Equestria?!”

“But...but...but...but...but that mean’s Sombra is back!”

Applejack arched an eyebrow of confusion at their reactions, "Where have you all been?"

“Actually, it’s when.” Spike corrected before Twilight moved to explain why they are saying what they are saying right now.

“Look, we know this is hard to believe, quite frankly I still don't believe it, but you and those other ponies we mentioned are our friends!"

"Did you bump your head on a crate of cider or somethin'?"

"We're telling you the truth!" Twilight firmly stated. "And if you come with us, we'll prove it."

"Sorry, but I've got a lot of work to do. Hope you find what you're lookin' for, though." Applejack turned around and prepared to head back into the barn, only to be stopped when Fuli intercepted him with her super speed and pounced on him.

"Hi, Applejack! Sorry to have to do this to do you but...”

"Wha? Hey!"

The country pony struggled in the cheetah’s grip as she somehow managed to hogtie her with a lasso she made with nearby rope she found. She struggled and grunted as the cheetah took her on over to the map, since she refused to come with them before.

“Let me go this instant!”

She complied once they had all arrived back to their destination, There, Applejack was now awestruck with what she was seeing. Never before in her life had she seen such an amazing and magical object. This was enough to convince her that they were telling her the truth.

"Well, I'll admit I've lived in these parts my whole life and I've never seen this before."

"There's also supposed to be a castle that goes with it." Spike said while sitting on one of the broken thrones.

"I still don't see what this has to do with all of us bein' friends." Applejack commented.

Twilight moved to explain it some more. "Another pony named Starlight Glimmer used this map to travel through time and change things in the past! For some reason the map's here but everything else is different!"

"Different how?"

"Well for one thing, where we come from there's no war with King Sombra."

Applejack looked down in sadness as she looked down at the map. The idea of there existing a world without Sombra was indeed a more interesting and peaceful one. Too bad that’s not the case here.

"Maybe you could tell us how the war started, then we can figure out when everything changed." Fuli suggested.

"That's easy enough." Applejack sighed before she began telling them the dreadful tale of Equestria's war. "When the Crystal Empire returned, it brought King Sombra back with it, and it didn't take long for him to force every one of his subjects to fight for him against Equestria."

Applejack placed her hoof over the map, and suddenly it reacted to her touch, creating what appeared to be some kind of magical glowing screen where the others could see King Sombra himself ruling over the Crystal Empire. He looked just as terrifying as the images depicted him.

Dark crystals covered the land, covering the palace itself with darkness, and every crystal pony was forced to slavery or to battle. Sombra had created magical helmets that, once placed upon a pony's head, their minds, bodies and souls were now under his control.

The sight itself was truly devastating for the Lion Guard to watch. Applejack realized this map reacted to her memories and what she knew of the war. She and the others watched in dismay as the scene unfolded before their very eyes.

They witnessed Sombra and his army marching over a snowy plane, on the opposite side was the sun princess herself, Celestia, along with her niece Princess Cadance, and Shining Armor appearing by her side to aid her in battle. But amongst the royal family present, Princess Luna was not around.

Upon Celestia's command, an army of Pegasus ponies soared across the skies, many of them included the Wonder Bolts, all wearing helmets and battle suits, including Spitfire and Soarin, and another face they recognized thanks to the rainbow colored tail. Only difference being is that one of her winfs is a metallic artificial one instead of a real one.

The Crystal Army charged forward as Celestia's guards and air force charged on as well, ready to fight for their homeland. Beshte and Ono could only look on with jaw dropped horror when the opposing armies collided, battling against one another in a brutal display, some battled even to the very end to death. All while King Sombra laughed wickedly at what he was seeing.

One of the Pegasus ponies kicked and punched each crystal pony that came at her. She was indeed powerful. One of the crystal ponies jumped at her but she bucked him off, removing her helmet in the process, revealing her shortened rainbow colored mane, styled into a spiky punk-like bang, her left ear was nearly torn off and a scar ran across her left eye. This Rainbow Dash had become a warrior with battles scars that are on par with the shock on Twilight’s very own scar.

As she fought, two crystal soldiers rolled an enormous boulder from a cliff, which would land on the Pegasus pony. Luckily, two more ponies came to her aid. Maud and Pinkie Pie, both breaking the rock at supper fast speed with nothing but their hooves. The two landed safely beside Rainbow Dash, both sporting similar hairstyles to their ally, and Maud was actually showing more emotion than she previously did. Said emotions were really more out of anger and determination but still. Pinkie Pie, on the other hand, only mirrored her sister's expressions. She wasn't smiling nor did she appear her innocent happy-go-lucky self. The war itself had certainly changed her because of it.

The two alicorns were part of the fight as well, but even with their magic it still wasn't enough. Applejack could see how hard it was for these new folks to witness such a display.

"Even with Princess Celestia, Princess Cadance, and Shining Armor leadin' the charge, it still takes every last pony in Equestria doin' their part, workin' day and night, to keep up the fight. And even more so when Twilight came into the picture. Or more accurately, Midnight Sparkle." She explained as more images appeared before them.

Hearing this sparked even further shock among the time traveling friends.

“WHAT?!”

“ME?!”

“Yeah. After she didn’t get into Princess Celestia’s school for talented unicorns, she ran away from home. During her travel away from home she managed to come across King Sombra himself and how was defeated by both Princesses Celestia and Luna a thousand years ago. After being manipulated by the king into thinking the two sisters are the real enemy and thus one unstoppable pony filled with darkness and rage waged war on all of Equestria.”

“I did?!”

“She did?!”

“Sad and hard to believe but it is indeed the truth. Whatever what went down between the two must have been pretty bad to the point she was willing to use her magic into restoring the evil unicorn to his full glory.”

Said mare in the alternate timeline leaped into action by blasting off every guard that tried to confront her along actually getting her fists and hooves dirty while in on the action. When she first appeared and joined in on the battle, she wore black and red armor, her mane was flowing through a combo of ethereal and fiery magic, dark magic that also had her pupils glow sickly green and purple and had red saucers much like Sombra’s. And needless to say, she managed to do all this with a stoic and no-nonsense demeanor as she blew by her opponents with effortless efficiency and it was a terrifying sight to see for everyone watching it. Especially seeing the cold looks she gave the Equestrian Royal Family when they made eye contact.

Further images showcased more ponies working hard nonstop so they could to help the royals win the battle. Flutteshy was still working with animals, but mainly with sheep to sell their wool for clothing, which Rarity, working as one of the many seamstresses, to create the battle cloths and supplies for the poor ponies who lost so much during the war and nearly have nothing left. Ponies were forced to leave their homes for either safety or to join in the army to fight for their land.

During the fight, Twilight saw her brother in the alternate timeline and he was looked a bit bruised and battered as he endured hits and blows from many crystal ponies he’s forced to fight against due to Sombra’s powers. He breathed heavily and sweated along the way. But even still he didn’t care if he died today, he was determined to do his part in saving Equestria from a horrible fate. After losing the Crystal Empire, he personally vowed he wasn’t going to let the same fate befall upon it. When Shining led the charge and disappeared among the crowd of mind controlled ponies he wasn’t seen again as he was buried deep in the mob of ponies who gained up on it.

Just seeing that had Twilight tear up feeling that this is the part where he dies with honor when he disappears like that while the others were just completely stunned with their heart’s racing after seeing the horrors of war before their very eyes. They almost felt like they were having heart attacks because of it after seeing what has become of their pony friends. A future without their friendship.

"Hapana!" Ono fainted while landing on Beshte’s back who likewise was still too stunned to move.

Bunga moved to throw up in one of the nearby barrels in disgust with what he said much to the orange pony’s annoyance while Fuli moved to pat him on the back in order to make sure he is okay but not without having her head hung in sorrow too. She too was unable to bare to look at the scenes she can not stomach her age either let alone the same tears she felt falling from her green eyes.

"I'm sorry ya'll had to see that." Applejack apologized while lowering her head in regret. "I didn't mean for it to happen."

Twilight was finally able to recompose herself while averting her gaze away from the map. "I just don't believe it!" Twilight exclaimed unable to unsee what she saw. "We stopped King Sombra! You and me and all of our friends!"

"But we aren't friends. At least not here."

"...Right.".

"Thank you." Fuli spoke up in gratitude while barely managing to regain her composure. "We're going to set things right."

"I hope you do." She said back before leaving them be.

“Oh!” Bunga groaned while managing to heave the last bit of his sudden eruption. “Man! At least Kion’s not awake to see. He would stormed right into that fight in an instant.”

“Yeah.” Fuli agreed seeing that it’s better this way. Otherwise they could be losing Kion in this alternate timeline too and thus be erased from existence in the current timeline.

Deep down she was holding up and steeling her nerves but just barely. She too needed to take deep breaths to keep herself from crying uncontrollably at what had happened because Starlight tampered with an important piece of history in the past.

“There, there...I got you.” Fuli assured the honey badger when he buried his face into her chest while patting his back.

Instantly, everyone else joined in on the group hug so they can get all of the raw wounds and emotions they felt through that mentally traumatizing experience out of their systems. Once they had all calmed themselves down, slowly they dispersed, wiping the tears from their eyes and getting back down to business.

"So… how are we gonna set things right?" Spike asked.

"I don't know!" Twilight exclaimed, in a combination of sadness and worry before burying her face in her hooves. "The only thing we know for sure is that Starlight stopped the Rainboom!"

"And that the map's still here." Bunga mentioned, making Twilight gasp when she realized something.

"Bunga, that's it! The map is connected to the Tree of Harmony! It must sense that something isn't right! That's why it's still here!"

Fuli came to same realization too. "And the Tree of Harmony is also connected to the Elements of Harmony, which are also connected to Kion!"

"But, how are we going to find him?" Ono asked. "In this timeline ponies and Pride Landers remained separate because the portals were never created."

“By tapping into his spirit and tracing it.” Twilight worked her magic in literally tearing open through the fabric of time and space while having her illuminated horn focus on Kion’s energy (alternate Kion’s energy). Once she did that she was able to get the cortex to open up again to allow the Lion Guard to travel and trace down Kion alongside her. “Let’s go!”

Everyone all did as they were told no further questions and once they all moved to get sucked inside of the vortex, it instantly disappeared.

Once again, the group fell from the vortex and landed hard on solid ground. Beshte was on the bottom, with the following order to the top going up is Twilight, Fuli, Bunga, Kion, and Ono.

“Phew!” Fuli remarked while blowing aside Bunga’s tail with her breath. “Well this stinks!”

“Sorry!” Bunga apologized.

“Not you, well actually yes, but more on the fact that we are dealing with a crazy pony trying to break up our friendship by tampering with time.”

“Oh.”

“So…” Fuli then stood up as she and the others got up on their paws and hooves. “...where exactly are we in the Savannah and where’s Kion? The other one that’s out here?”

“I don’t know.” Twilight turned the Guard’s Keenest of Sight. “Ono.”

“On it!” He quickly flew up and scanned the area around him from up high in hopes of trying to find the son of the king who along with Nala raised him. He looked around and spotted something quite alarming. “Hapana!”

“What is it, Ono?!”

“Is it Kion?!”

Both Twilight and Fuli asked.

“Look!”

Everyone all turned their heads on towards where Ono is looking and pointing at and they felt the sudden shock when they saw what had got their friend all wide-eyed in horror.

Pride Rock and the area surrounding it all under Scar’s regime.

Much like with Sombra the skies and area around was tainted in a bloody shade of red with black smoke up high in the clouds. And from Ono can aside from afar are the Outsiders all relishing in the freedom they have now that they are allowed in the Pride Lands, even under it’s horrific condition considering there is no sunlight, and that there is barely any plant life and water left in the kingdom.

And judging from the looks of the place, it would only just recently that whatever went down to cement their victory did it all happen. It was as if the Circle of Life doesn’t mean anything to them even if they were truly happy that Scar gave them what he promised this time around. It was just as bad as in Equestria to what they just witnessed back there.

"What happened here?!" Bunga asked in distraught and disbelief, seeing the once lavish and flourish kingdom in this state.

Ono looked in with a grim expression and tone as he spotted their ring leader looking on top of Pride Rock looking pleased with what he has accomplished. All in his fiery form and glory. “Scar happened.”

“And it’s pretty clear of what happened without the Lion and Pony Guard around.“ Twilight deduced. “Without us around to obtain the ash Simba needed, he died and the Outsiders managed to takeover without any trouble.”

“But our friends? Our families?” Beshte spoke up unable to see his dad or anyone else he knows inside the kingdom. “Where are there?!”

“I’m afraid the true is as good as your best guess.” Twilight could only say to the innocent soul really worried fearing the worst already. “It depends if any of them were lucky to survive and get out of there alive assuming whether or not they tried to put up a fight or not.”

“So this is what happens to our world had it not been for the Sonic Rainboom happening and Starlight intervening?!” Bunga asked in complete shock and bewilderment that this is even happening right now.

“Yep.” Twilight stoically replied. Honestly, she wished she could say otherwise but knowing of how true things would have turned out with what had happened after Scar’s first defeat, this is the current reality they are facing as cruel and heartless as it is.

Just then they heard some rustling from nearby. Something that would normally take place the silent surroundings give an uncomfortable feel. A feel that they are being watched.

“Huh?!”

“What was that?!”

Both Beshte and Bunga asked wondering and worrying what that was when whoever was stalking them happened to be nearby the border from where they are standing.

“Um, guys…”

“...I think we should get moving.”

“And by that I mean now!”

The others said as they did just that away from the Pride Lands.

While everyone moved around, Beshte continued to hear the rustling from the nearby hills and dry grass. Despite his best efforts to ignore what’s lurking around him, he couldn’t help but wonder what was going on as it seems to nearby and behind him. And sure enough, there was someone stealthy approaching them. A very familiar predator with red eyes.

Beshte screamed and ran as fast as he could just when the predator charged and lunged towards him. Despite his fastest efforts to get away from the hunt, the hunter is still closing in him with fierce determination to make a meal out of him.

“Beshte?” Bunga turned his head towards the commotion along with the others who all managed to witness what was happening behind them as their friend was now finding himself running towards and around the nearby trees in order to shake off his purser. “Beshte!” He quickly rushed over to help him.

Beshte smashed and crushed dry and prickly plants which caused him to crash onto the ground and fall leaving him vulnerable and unable to move when the lioness appeared to lunge for the fatal pounce.

Twilight attacking quick leaped up with an equally fierce expression as she shot a powerful beam of magic right at her chest which forced her back as she tumbled across the dirt in pain. The lioness glared with a growl as her burning red eyes drove her into charging right back at the alicorn who likewise charged back. And at the exact same moment the two got face to face, Twilight unleashed a super hard magic powered punch to the face and another to neck to neutralize the attacker for a minute while Beshte struggled to get moving.

Just then the lioness managed to get back up on her paws and managed to rush on ahead on towards the hippo once more with Twilight following after her again. She ended up moving so fast that the alicorn’s bangs were nearly cut into like razors flying by. Bunga who was struggling to help his friend up barely had time to register alarm and fear when he saw how fast she was coming their way.

“Whoa! How is it that I’m the one saving your….AAAHHH!”

Just when she was about to lunge at the hippo once more at the same time Twilight was prepared to neutralize her once more, a mighty roar was heard from nearby. One that came from a very familiar lion that has his father’s colors and looks but with the same tuft of red hair on the top of his head as he appeared with ferocious intent while appearing and leaping over Beshte to confront this predator.

Said predator was completely caught off guard by his appearance and had no time to prepare herself when he moved to tackle her. Given that the lioness is much larger than him she was able to force the lion cub off of her. And despite the cub being much shorter and smaller than her he was able to swipe and trade claws with her.

Much to everyone’s delight and surprise it was the lion they were looking for with Twilight wasting no time in coming to his aid when it was pretty clear that the lioness was starting to gain the edge in their one on one battle. Just when she was starting to land more blows on Kion to the point he couldn’t go on the offense. She quickly caught the predator with a blindside attack that forced her away from Kion and was quick to fly around while constantly attacking and disorienting the lioness.

Kion himself while looking on surprised and confused at what he is seeing, still moved to join in on the fight against the lioness once he had recovered from the clawing and mauling he endured. Together, the two were able work like a team as they moved to fend off the lioness from further attacks. Between Kion’s constant clawing and Twilight’s constant firing of her magical blasts, forcing their opponent on the defense as she was unable to get an offensive charge in without being blasted and pushed away. And then after she was left staggering, both the lion and alicorn worked together to deliver a combo blow that sent the lioness flying back with full force and ended up tumbling down the nearby hills and plopping down on the nearby hard ground having lost consciousness because of it.

“Let’s get out of here!” Kion ordered of the group who all wasted no time in following after him including the fully recovered Beshte just when the others had all managed to help him to his feet.

“Huddle up!” Twilight ordered of everyone before working her magic in performing a teleportation spell to get everyone away from the border and out towards a safe distance away.

Once they were now all safe and far away from the Pride Lands, they all could take a breather along with getting able to look forward to reuniting with the Lion Guard leader in this timeline.

“Is everyone okay?” Kion asked of everyone with a serious expression.

“Yes! Thanks to you!” Twilight happily replied while being the first to approach him while wrapping her arm around him.

“Kion!” Bunga happily greeted like he is reuniting with his long lost brother by hugging him right around the stomach. “Oh! I have been galloping and running around all over looking for you! I…” Suddenly he found himself pushed off by the lion while he moved to slip out of Twilight’s grasp and did so rather aggressively and coldly. “Kion?!”

“For starters, just because I saved your life, doesn’t mean you get to hug like I’m your best friend. Second, I have the need for personal space. And third and most importantly, we're not friends.”

Bunga looked on shocked and hurt by that statement. “...you don’t remember me?”

“Maybe I did before I left the Pride Lands, but not anymore.”

Hearing that sparked further shocked and hurt looks from the others.

“Huh?!”

“What?!”

“Kion?!”

“Okay, how do you all know my name?! I never told any of you that!”

“Wait, stop!” Twilight quickly interrupted. What do you mean you left the Pride Lands?” She asked with a heartbroken tone.

“Along with you not remembering any of us?!” Fuli asked confused and concerned with what has happened to this Kion. “Surely the leader of the Lion Guard would recognize his friends who fought alongside him in protecting the Pride Lands.”

Kion growled angrily and got in the cheetah’s face who likewise was left startled when that happened instantly. “The Lion Guard?! That waste of time?! That never even happened!”

“But it did.” Fuli returned while confidently standing her ground against him. “You talked about having us become your teammates in your Guard.”

“No I didn’t!” Kion further growled with the tempting urge to strike her right on the spot, but something in his mind was preventing him from carrying it out. He then backed off and retracted his claws before backing off and calming himself down before letting his anger get the better of him. “Maybe I did consider it once before but that was something that never came to pass.”

“But what happened?” Beshte asked correctly sensing this is a sad story. “Why didn’t the Lion Guard happen like you originally wanted it to be?”

“Because it was not tradition to not have all lions to be part of the Guard.” He briefly replied with barely contained anger and masked composure. “After all like what Simba said, a Lion Guard with only one lion can’t protect the Pride Lands.”

“But it can.” Bunga optimistically reminded. “You proved him in wrong when he saw how we stopped that stampede and saved your sister, Kiara!”

“Since when?!” Kion asked like he heard the most ridiculous thing to date.

“Since when the Lion Guard was formed, remember? You, me, Fuli, Beshte, and Ono.” He gestured to each and every one of the Lion Guard members standing before him as proof that it did happen.

“I remember seeing you two…” He said with eyes on Fuli and Beshte who smiled feeling this is getting somewhere. “...but I don’t remember you two.” He then said in both Bunga and Ono’s direction who both had their smiles turn into jaw dropped shock with the latter's more from how cold Kion delivered that sentence due to the circustances of his fate already sealing in the alternate timeline. “And the same can be said for the little baby dragon and you too pony girl.”

While taken aback by the pony girl insult, she still pressed to try to get through to him. “Maybe not here, but from where we are from the Lion Guard does have it’s first non all lion team with you as the team’s leader and there is also a Pony Guard too, the very first Pony Guard. One where as leader of that Guard, I help lead my pony friends into helping protect Equestria as well. All under the inspiration of you, Kion. Because you’re the one who inspired that not all traditions have to be followed to the T. The one started new traditions and convinced others in the Pride Lands to do the same along with all of Equestria.”

Kion is still looking on at the very colorful strangers like he has no idea what they are talking about with a bored, annoyed, blank expression. “Again, wrong guy you’re talking too.”

“Okay…then it seems a proper visual is in order.” Twilight moved to work her magic to show her exactly what she is talking about.

She worked her magic and showed the various memories of him along with the Lion Guard and Pony Guard as they all worked together to protect the Pride Lands and Equestria from enemies trying to create imbalance to both worlds.

Upon seeing the visuals, Kion looked on in awe but also released a single tear over seeing both Bunga and Ono due to having painful memories flowing right through him when he saw them.

“I know this is hard to believe, but from where we are from you and I are friends, all living in a time of peace and happiness. There we managed to fight off the Outsiders and kept them from disrupting the balance of the Pride Lands where the Circle of Life is greatly respected. Not only that the same is said for all of Equestria where you meet us along with many ponies and friends the magical kingdom has to offer.”

Kion looked on as more of these magical memories are flowing through his very eyes to the point he managed to see himself as a half-alicorn complete with a horn and wings. Seeing this image had the young lion completely baffled and dumbstruck at seeing himself like this. Could he actually become an alicorn capable of magic?!

He felt the rainbow shimmer in his eyes as he dared to look at his alternate reflection along with the various Marks of the Guard and Cutie Marks that come along with it. He even looked into his alternate self’s eyes and saw how remarkable he is. So majestic, so powerful, one of the nicest guys a friend could ask for, and deep down so happy...

...before she quickly smacked Twilight’s horn forcing her to cancel the visuals he was currently seeing who likewise had to rub her horn for a second because of it.

“You and me prince and princess?! Brother and sister?! What do you take me for a kid who actually believes that nonsense?! Please! I’m not a child!”

“Well even for a teenager you truly are still a kid at heart and you know it.”

“Whatever.” Kion moved to head on back towards the jungle where he now calls home. “Not interested in learning whatever my destiny is going to be or what it should be. Without me around then no more lives are at risk and nobody gets hurt. That way everyone gets what they want.”

“Expect you.” Fuli firmly yet sympathetically pointed out. “Here you’re talking about that you are happy about living a life of luxury when really you’re just sad and still grieving from the personal pain you suffered. The heartbreak over two little failures in life is really holding you back from reaching your true potential as a leader.”

“Yeah, right?!” He moved to lounge on the nearby vines as a makeshift hammock with his head turned away from everyone.

“But it’s true!” Bunga stated as he appeared right beside him. “Fierce and fearless in the face of danger always leading the charge whenever trouble is lurking and pushing and carrying through life with a very good heart!”

“Everyone really missed and needed you back home.” Beshte added.

Kion scoffed in reply. “Nobody needs me.”

“Yes we do. Everyone in the Pride Lands does.” Fuli asserted.

“The Pride Lands needs it’s Lion Guard, it’s leader, you., Kion.” Twilight added equally assertive.

“Pony girl, cheetah, we’ve been through this, I’m not the leader of the Lion Guard who’s responsible for protecting the Pride Lands. Simba is.”

“Kion. Ever since you left the Pride Lands, the Outsiders took over.” The young lion scoffed at the very idea to the point he was looking very bored and uninterested with what these strangers he just met have to say as Twilight explained the whole scope of the current state of the kingdom. “Janja and the hyenas, Reirei and the jackals, Kiburi and the crocs, Mzingo and the vultures, Zira and the lionesses, all worked together to overthrow Simba…” Kion still looked on uninterested as he lounged on his hammock. “...with Scar backing them up to guide and lead them to doing so.”

Hearing that sparked shock and alarm as he got serious again. “What?! But that can’t be! He’s dead!”

“Not when there’s the ability to communicate and get into contact with him. Even as he appears as a fiery spirit he can still command an army at his disposal along with being able to do damage himself with his fire powers alone.”

Kion still refused to believe what he is being told.

“No!”

To him there is just no way, that it’s possible. His very own evil grand uncle is back from the dead able to appear in the flames of any ongoing fires.

“Hard to believe but it’s true. And because of him, everything is destroyed. There’s no food, no water. Kion if you don’t something soon everyone who has escaped Pride Rock will starve!”

“I can’t go back!” Kion returned while looking guilty with what has happened in his absence while leaping off of the hammock.

“Why?!”

“You wouldn’t understand.” He stated with his back turned from the others.

“What wouldn’t I understand?!”

“That it doesn’t matter. Even if that’s true, me returning back home is not happening!”

“What?!”

“Why not?!”

Both Fuli and Bunga implored looking on incredulous by what this alternate Kion is saying.

“Because Scar is dangerous! Nobody can fight him! When Simba fought him he was very lucky to have survived a fight against him. Underneath that scrawny and skinny appearance is raw strength and predator agility he still has from his Lion Guard days that he can and will use when necessary. If he already has the entire army and kingdom wrapped around his claws and every Pride Lander on the run then he is not someone you want to pick a fight against. He’ll kill you if you try and he will do the same to me if I do! So there you have it! That’s why I can’t and won’t go back!”

“Come on, Kion. You’re better than this.” Twilight insisted.

Kion wasn’t having it as he moved to walk away. “Am I?”

“Yes!”

“Well if the Pride Lands is worth trying to fight for. Why bother?”

“Because it is your responsibility!” She responded while teleporting herself right in front of him with a stern glare.

Kion returned it in kind. “Well what about you? You left?”

“I left to find help! And I found you alongside my friends! Your friends!” Twilight stated passionately.

“Don’t you see Kion!” Fuli also stated while being quick to get face to face with him when he tried to turn the other way from Twilight. “You’re their only hope!”

Kion still kept his back turned from her along with the others to assert that it’s still not worth his time. “Sorry.”

Twilight and Fuli exchanged looks of disbelief with what he is saying and doing as he moved to stride away.

“What happened to you? You’re not the Kion I remember.”

“You’re right. I’m not. Now are you satisfied?”

“No. Just disappointed.”

“You know, you’re starting to sound more like my father than my sister.”

“Good. At least one of does.”

Kion’s expression turned into an enraged expression as he turned back and got face to face with her with bared teeth and claws. “Listen! You think you can just show up and tell me how to live my life! You don’t even know what I’ve been through!”

“I would if you just tell me!”

“Forget it!” He moved to storm off away from them as both infuriated girls exchanged a knowing look before moving to get through to him the hard way.

Not about to give up on him both Twilight and Fuli quickly rushed over and intercepted him by blocking off his only two exits from the jungle with the most terrifying looks that had to the point everyone else was taken back and frightened by them.

Ono covered his eyes while Spike covered his mouth, and Bunga looked on hoping that this doesn’t turn ugly out of concern for his friend’s well-being. At the same time Kion looked on at both girls surprised by this sudden and bold stand against him.

“I don’t think I made myself clear, Kion…” Twilight began in a menacing tone. “...when I said if you would just tell us…”

“...I mean you are telling us!” Fuli stated equally menacing.

Kion stubbornly refused to let them get in his way no matter how intimidating they are. “I’m not telling! I’m going! And you can’t stop me!” Kion moved to walk away in between them only for Twilight to effortlessly twist his arm and sent him spinning away from them followed by Fuli effortlessly speeding past him and knocking him off of his paws. “Okay…” Kion was left completely off-guard. “I wasn’t ready that time.”

“Um guys…” Beshte tried to speak up while pleading that they don’t go all out on each other on deaf ears.

Twilight spread out her wings and had her horn flared up at the same time Fuli got into a starting and ready to pounce position.

“Ready!”

“Bring it!”

Kion growled while shuffling left and right before trying to evade them. But he finds that both the alicorn and cheetah are too quick to evade as the former managed to fire an equally quick blast of magic to disorient him while swooping by to knock him off of his paws while the cheetah managed to sweep by with her super speed to knock him hard into the ground and tumbling back right to where he started.

Upon seeing that he arrogantly underestimated their speed, moved to act and think quick in order to properly deal with his opponents. He moved to charge for a head on fight by attempting to attack Twilight who effortlessly shrugged off each and every one of his attempted attacks with each and every one of his claw movements. After wearing himself down a little, Twilight moved to increased the size and power of her shield to repel the young lion away. Then she followed it up with a powerful punch to the gut from her hoof.

After he recovered, he then moved to charge at Fuli thinking for sure that he can take her. Only when he made the charge, she was quick to pounce on him first, leading to the two to tumble across the grass up until Kion managed to kick the cheetah off of her. Once she was off of his body, he made another charge at her while forcing her to avoid and evade the lion’s sharp claws. Once she was now struggling and staggering in her movements, he went to pounce and tackle her to the ground only for the same technique he used on her earlier was suddenly reversed and he found himself being pinned to the ground by Fuli much to his shocked surprise as he finds that he is unable to break free from her grasp.

“Let me go!” He demanded.

“No! Now, the truth, Kion.”

“No! I don’t have to tell you anything, especially when you’re strangers who I’ve only met minutes ago!”

“Well if you want to be free from these strangers then tell us why! Why did you leave the Pride Lands and never bothered to form the Lion Guard like you dreamed of doing?!”

Kion struggled in vain as he looked on with hatred in both the alicorn and cheetah’s sparkling and shimmering purple and green eyes. When he looked deeply and intensely at them with deep and heated breaths, he felt a spark flowing through his mind. A spark that had him thinking that these strangers are really telling him something. Something that has him seeing what could have and should have been in regards to how things should have when down with them, like magic is telling him that they are showing up the very truth before his very eyes. And what the path he chosen today has led him into doing and what it has come to. He ended up opening up his eyes with calming shock as he realized he nearly killed them. Maybe he could tell them just so they could finally understand why he did what he did and leave him alone.

He heavily sighed before relenting and opening up to these strangers he hardly knows. “Because the answer to that question is a story without a happy ending.” He then recalled the memory of his father admonishing him for his choice in regards to who he wants by his side in protecting the Pride Lands.

“After picking who I wanted to join the Lion Guard, Simba was quick to assume that I wasn’t taking my new responsibilities seriously. He assumed that I was just playing with my friends and wanted me to pick other lions for the Guard because according to tradition, it has never been done before. I mean in all fairness I haven’t always been the most serious and responsible compared to my sister but there was a lot in them.” He looked on sadly as he reminisced the bad memory. “We could have protected the Pride Lands just as well as any other past Lion Guard, even better than Scar himself. He never gave me a chance to show him that I had picked the perfect team.” He returned to his serious frown. “Because I was never meant to succeed Simba as king, I decided it was best I left the Pride Lands, to pursue a new life to find my own destiny.”

“But what about me?" Bunga asked with pleading eyes. "The Lion's Guard’s Bravest?”

“For starters..." Kion started with his eyes focused on the egret. "...I never seen nor met you, Though you do look like the other egrets in the Pride Lands. Along with a couple of egrets who were left devastated when they lost their egg, containing their baby that was eaten by hyenas, back when we were babies too. And as for you, you like the honey badger that became hyena lunch just before I first discovered the Roar. Hence another reason why Simba was adamant against choosing the rest of you to join the Lion Guard because he didn’t something like that to happen again.”

“What?!” Bunga gasped looking on disheartened with what he is hearing.

Being never born was one thing but that also leading to the catalyst to Kion never fully pursing the idea that non lions could join the Lion Guard along with the very lion himself running away from home after one too many failures to protect his friends. As for Bunga, it was like one of the saddest stories he has ever heard, the fact that he died in this timeline also further demoralized his best friend from forming his Lion Guard the way he wanted it.

“Yeah. Ever since then I’ve decided that I am better off working alone, away from others who try to decide and say what should be my destiny all because I didn’t have a team that had all lions to back me up and the friends I once had failed to protect others when they needed help the most.”

“But Kion…” Twilight spoke up refusing to continue letting him to think this way. “...I mean I know it was very tough of you to lose a couple of friends along the way but you still could have led the Lion Guard you wanted.”

“Oh, really?!” Kion looked on with an arched eyebrow. “Easy said as Easy done, huh? Well, I’d hate to break it to you pony girl, but traditions are there for a reason. Especially considering those friends could have been the perfect teammates.”

Deep down he wished he could have done more in trying to protect and save them before they became hyena food for Janja and his terrible and incompetent trio. If only he was quick enough without whatever much needed boost the rainbow boost provided, they’d both be alive, and they’d all be happy together.

“I really mean it Kion.” Twilight repeated trying to emphasize with him as Fuli moved to release him from her grasp. “Traditional, Non-traditional, in between, it doesn’t matter. As long as the magic of friendship allows you see what is truly what is in everyone’s best interests at heart, you can be the lion you have always wanted to be. What the real you wants.”

Deep down it’s true, but at the same time there is the reality of what has happened in his absence. “I could. But it’s too late.” Kion said with lowered ears still not feeling confident about pursing it. “Returning to Pride Rock now would be suicide and there are no friends I know that have survived.”

“Have you tried Jasiri?” Bunga asked.

“Who?” He asked with a blank look.

“Oh, right!” He realized while face palming himself. “That never happened. Never mind.”

“Nope. Never trusted anybody outside of the Pride Lands. Sad but true.”

“Wow.” Ono remarked impressed of how quick and blunt he was about that. “You didn’t waste time to answer that question.”

Kion looked up while glancing at him. “It ceratinly helps that hyenas killed two of what could have been my best friends.” Ono just looked aside personally regretting asking that question.

“Sorry.”

“It’s okay. That being said my point still stands. There is no way I can defeat Scar and his army.”

As much as the others wanted to say otherwise, they couldn’t because given of how much trouble Scar has given them in the current timeline and with how dangerous he is, there is no way one young lion can take on a job too big for one alone.

“Unless you had an army of your own.” A female voice said to him sparking surprise as the many heads turned towards where the voice came from.

Said voice came from a female lioness with dark brown fur, brown eyes, and had a similar looking mark on her shoulder. It appeared in the shape of a male lion’s head in a tree trunk with a leaf-like mane and ears. Behind her were a group of lions standing by her side.

The first male lion among the group has dark blue eyes, a bulky build and large tuft of dark brown hair and stands up and bends down like a pompadour hairstyle expect not slicked backwards. One look at him tells that he seems very friendly and outgoing.

The second male lion has more slender and lean build but still muscular, sporting yellow-red eyes, and a large mane that is long with light stripes on it. Judging from his expression, he seemed to be calm, rational, and wise.

And the third one like the team leader is also a lioness, one with a chestnut shade of brown fur, blue eyes, dark pink nose, violet orange flower above her right ear. And judging from her expression, she is a very kind and gentle character on the inside yet looks so fierce and brave on the surface.

“Huh?”

“Well? You want help or not?” The lioness leader expected an answer clearly not in the mood for dawdling an answer out of him before strangely eyeing the other animals along with the alicorn and dragon.

“Forgive him.” Twilight moved to speak on his behalf while moving to greet him. “He’s just surprised to see other lions outside from where he’s from and…”

“Whoa! A horned horse!” The bulky lion reacted in alarm before charging right at her and tackling her. “I’ll stop her!”

“Baliyo!” His leader scolded in dismay.

Luckily given that Twilight herself is a skilled fighter was able to reverse the pin the teenage lion just put her in while restraining him with one front hoof on his body and the other held up and twisted.

“Ow! Ow! Ow! Okay! Okay! Uncle! Uncle!”

Twilight released her grip on the lion who moved to shake off the pain he endured.

“And who are you exactly…” The leader said to the alicorn somewhat threateningly after seeing her comrade in pain (albeit briefly).

“Someone who’s traveled long and far who like many of you seeks to put an end to a tyrant’s reign of terror.” She answered without flinching or showing any emotion in the face of anger.

“Like you, princess?!”

“No. The lion currently occupying the Pride Lands not too far from here. So that said I guess I should be asking you and hoping that this misstep is just water under the bridge especially when your comrade tried to attack me first.”

The two were face to face in a stare down briefly until they both backed off from getting into a heated confrontation by shaking on it.

“You can count on it.”

“Good to hear we’re still on the same page.”

They both smiled before they both turned to Kion hoping he’s now ready to talk which he is now ready to do so.

“So...you and your friends have come here to help me against Scar?”

“Yes.” The lioness leader nodded.

“Even after knowing all about?”

“Of course.”

“But why?”

“Because even if it isn’t in my best interests considering it’s far from here, my grandmother wished for us to help you and anyone else left in your homeland in order to help keep the peace. That along with the fact Scar might expand his newly-conquered territory on over here.”

“Not to mention it is still the right thing to do for a friend.” The bulky lion added.

“Really? You see me as a friend?” Kion returned rather surprised of this sudden gesture so soon.

“Of course. Anyone who needs help sure is a friend of mine.”

“And I can say the same thing too, especially when one possesses the power of legends.” The other male lion added with a smile.

“And when one is need of great care. Much needed emotional care.” The other lioness added also smiling too.

“Wow…!” All of this suddenly gifted warmness really got into him. Like his heart grew three times today as he is faced with a handful of friends he never had since since the day he left the Pride Lands before the Lion Guard could be reborn. “...Thanks! But you should also thank Twilight too. I would never be accepting your help right now if it weren’t for her.”

“And the same can be said likewise with me.” The lioness leader replied with mutual respect with both him and Twilight. “It’s not every day I find you of all lions nor a…”

“Pony.”

“...pony who’s got a fiery and inspirational spark of leadership and friendship in her heart.” Both girls smiled half-amused yet fully seeing eye to eye with one another given their similar personalities.

“Nor would I.” A familiar voice called out to her, sparking shock and surprise to Twilight along with the rest of the Lion Guard…

….as the Outsiders moved to surround them right on the spot left and right all appearing in shadows within the flames that suddenly appeared around them. To the time travelers, despite barely seeing them, they have seen their faces and eyes well enough to recognize who they are.

Just when Scar himself emerges from the shadows as flames appeared around the jungle with a pleased smirk and sinister chuckling. “After all of this time being dead before being able to finally return to the mortal realm, I finally get to meet my own grand-nephew in the flesh at last.” He locked eyes with the young lion who’s heart is racing upon being face to face with embodiment of the Devil himself with both the alicorn and lioness standing by his side ready to protect him. “Even if you hadn’t accomplished much, Kion, I still do owe you for still holding onto the gift of the Roar. The Roar that helped allow me to return to retake what’s rightfully mine.”

“No.” He gasped as that very specific memory of him losing control and using the Roar in anger right on the spot flows right through his mind.

“What are you talking about?!” The lioness demanded with a fierce scowl.

“Why, he gave into his anger at one point before he left home and ended up causing the volcano in the Outlands to erupt, of course. And thanks to certain mandrill’s bakorra staff being tossed inside the lava in the caldera, my spirit was allowed me to be revived. Allowed me to reawaken the pure evil that dormant within me of these many years.”

“You’re a liar! Kion would never bring the likes you back willingly.”

“Maybe, but it was still an accident that happened on purpose.” He then eyed the pony along with the rest of the Lion Guard also scowling at him. “And look who I caught inside the thick of the flames, the rest of the new Lion Guard along with a rare horse and dragon in the mix. Another rarity miracle no doubt.”

“How did you find us?!” Twilight demanded.

“That I have a certain lioness to thank that. Someone you just met earlier.” Scar turned his head and gestured towards the leader of the lionesses looking with an obedient and sadistic smirk. The same lioness they encountered just under an hour ago. “Isn’t that right, Zira?”

“Yes, Scar. It sure took me a while to be able to recognize that scent of your special relative along with being able to track him down and recall said lion’s appearance but I did it.”

“And you have done very well at finding him for me. Well done.”

“Zira?!” Kion looked on in angered shock at the lioness he had just fought earlier. “You’re with him?!”

“Of course, Kion. I’ve always been loyal to him ever since the day we met and ever since then we have developed a very close bond together.” Kion is still looking on unable to comprehend this. “Oh don’t acted so surprised, surely you would have known that.”

“No, I don’t! Because I don’t even know you!”

“Fair enough.” Scar interjected before Zira could start losing her patience with him. “Apparently your father hasn’t told you about her along with the rest of her clan.”

Said lions emerged to confront them, including Zira’s three children, Nuka, Vitani, and Kovu. While both the former two were looking on ready to fight, the latter is looking hesitant but firm as he truly doesn’t want to have to carry out his orders and draw blood, literally.

“My apologies that you were kept in the dark about this, Kion. But considering the circumstances now, there isn’t going to be much time for you fully process this since in order to remain being king, I’m going to have kill you and your friends.”

“But you were never the true king, Scar!” Kion defiantly shouted. “Even when I have had my disagreements with my father he proved to be a more effective leader than you could ever hope to be. He’s firm yet fair. He’s also caring, brave, courageous, and considerate towards his subjects while you were more than willing to burn the entire kingdom to the ground to get your way. If anything he’s ten times the king you were!”

Scar looked on unfazed by his outburst like he is hearing old news while Zira on the contrary was absolutely livid in response.

“How dare you!” Zira snarled. “Lionesses! Attack!”

All of the lionesses under her command moved charge at the young lion immediately.

While he didn’t show it, Kion was left incredibly alarmed visibly startled at being suddenly charged at and completely outnumbered. If only he knew what to do in a situation like this he would be mowing them right now. Or more accurately, what a certain pony moved to do when she threw a wave of magic from her horn to force them all away in one move.

Wasting no time, she quickly moved to go on the offense against this vicious pride of lions. She effortlessly punched away Nuka who charged first before punching aside one of the lionesses and then swiftly used her magic to teleport to the side to avoid two more lionesses who tried to attack her from behind. And that proved handy in allowing her time to use her magic in firing off blasts to blast them away before going toe to toe with Vitani.

She growled and gave her might in trying to fight off this magical pony as the former tackled and wrestled the latter to the ground. But given the past experience she has had in fighting other lions, she was able perform a set of kicks that knocked her opponent off her by before delivering one last kick to knock her to the ground.

Zira looked on in disbelief that this very pony she just met actually managed to take on her pride without breaking a sweat. “But how?! Those moves?! How did you learn them?!”

“Want to ask questions or do you want to fight?” She quickly fired a blast of magic to blast the lioness aside and crashing into one of the nearby burning and weakened tree that cracked and fell over upon impact.

“I want to fight!” Mustering every bit of hatred and blood boiling anger fueled adrenaline in her body she roared as she rushed on over to attack her. She unleashed her wrath in swift, wild, and rapid fashion as she attempted to attack Twilight in a blind rage.

Through her wild and fast attacks with her claws and teeth, she was able to force Twilight back who had to use a magical shield to keep Zira from clawing her in her raging madness.

Upon seeing the psychotic lion in action prompted Kion, Spike, and the others to try to rush over to try to help her. But Scar, however was quick to keep them separated.

“Army of Scar! Attack!” He roared while flames around them rises as high as he did when he gave the command.

Immediately, the crocs, hyenas, jackals, and vultures, leaped into the fray all moving to stop the kids from interfering with Zira’s one on one battle with Twilight.

Kion turned to the crew, he had just met, and only had this request of them. “Follow my lead.”

“Got it.”

“Can do.”

“Affirmative.”

“Right behind you.”

He moved to lead the charge by leaping over the croc’s heads while repeatedly knocking aside the jackals and hyenas that came at them left and right while the others did their best to follow suit.

Both Fuli and Bunga being as agile and quick were able to knock aside the hyenas and jackals that Kion had sent their way. Beshte unable to follow the pattern moved to plow his way through the crocodiles by using his large body weight and send those attacking from the side away and hard into the unbroken trees.

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Huwezi!”

“Zuka Zama!”

And Ono, who could fly, moved to take care of the incoming aerial attack headed their way by going for a head on confrontation with the vultures. Amazingly, Ono did well by plowing his sharp beak into the thick of things by peaking at jabbing it into almost every bird that tried to attack him from all angles.

Scar himself, was stunned yet impressed with how well coordinated these first time fighters are, yet had to put a stop this, but that was before having green fire breathed in his face courtesy of the young dragon bravely confronting him.

“Go ahead, Scar! Do your worst!” Spike challenged.

“Gladly.” He returned by breathing and roaring fire himself right back at him leaving the dragon to jump out of the way to avoid getting burned.

Scar then moved on the offense by moving his flaming head right on towards Spike who had to breath fire to keep his attacker from getting too close and had to evade his army by leaping over their heads. He even took risky moves by leaping through the narrow gaps between the rising flames just to keep his distance from him. But he was still managing to hold his own very well against him.

The lions that have come all this way to help the newly formed Lion Guard, were all left astonished with how well they managed to work together. Deep down it reminds them of how well they work together. So, they leaped into the fray too and proved why they are the perfect candidates in aiding the unlikely band of heroes trying to take down great evil.

“With strength and respect…” the lead lioness began.

“Night Pride protect!” The other three finished.

The lion with the hairdo moved to make the first move on Janja by tackling with him up until the latter kicked him off.

“Go ahead! Take your best shot!” He dared of the lion who quickly kicked him all across the jungle. “AAH!”

Kiburi during the fight took the time to laugh at his misfortune. “Not bad.”

Janja didn’t like that remark. “Who’s side are you on?!” He angrily asked.

Kiburi smugly smirked in response. “My side, Janja! Always!” To prove how strong he is slammed his tail hard into the ground to get it to crack while forcing the other male lion to back off without suffering whiplash. Just then, he was suddenly knocked to the side courtesy of a head on collision from the lead lioness causing him to bowl into Janja by accident causing them to nearly come in contact with the flames upon stopping.

While the lion was distracted both Cheezi and Chungu tried to go for a sneak attack from behind. But the smart thinking lion was able to swiftly dodge the attack in time causing them to crash into each other head to head.

“Ooh! I see stars!”

“Ooh! I see birds! A lot of birds!” His vision showed he is seeing double of Ono along with the flock of vultures who are all suddenly being struck down from the sky by the very lion that took them down.

Reirei found herself going toe to toe with the other lioness with the flower in her hair and quickly found herself in for a tough fight when the latter managed to tackle and pin her to the ground. Despite managing to put up a tumbling turnover, the lead jackal found herself kicked off and sent crashing into lionesses that Twilight had just defeated.

Said alicorn was now moving and pushing the crazy lioness away from her and forcing her to shield herself when the former starting landing magical blows, punches, and powerful kicks her way. At this moment, Zira was left mentally and physically exhausted as she struggled to keep up her energy against Twilight and before she knew she was dealt with a decisive punch to the face that knocked her out of the fight.

Just then she noticed Spike is starting to get overwhelmed by Scar who is proving to have stronger fire power than the former as he is starting to pant heavily and is starting to produce more smoke than fire from his mouth. By the time Twilight rushed over to his defense, Spike was now down on his knees barely able to stand and breath from all of the firepower he unleashed.

Before Scar could move to finish the little dragon off, he found himself repelled when Twilight fired fiery magic of her own right in his face. Said attack forced him to disappear and reappear on higher ground. The fiery lion narrowed his eyes at this powerful mare he hardly met before in his life and is brave enough to return the expression back at him. But even with all things considered he was not about to let her win this battle.

Both charged at each other with both Scar’s Roar and Twilight’s powerful magic from her colliding into beam war. Scar’s power color is bright orange and yellow, while Twilight is violet pink red while many fighters continue fighting and watching the most powerful warriors duke it out in the skies.

Both beams were evenly matched as neither side was able to gain the advantage over one another, up until Scar took a deep breath and increased the volume of his Roar allowing his beam to push Twilight’s back. Surely and slowly he was starting to win against his adversary. Underneath that constant roaring was definite satisfaction as he’s got the alicorn back up against the corner…

...just before suddenly finding the alicorn having a sudden surge of magic flowing inside of her, thus allowing her to repel the former’s magic away from the tip of her horn and created an explosion that literally blew up in his face.

Said explosion, ceased the fight and turned the entire jungle into a charred and scorched earth. The water that was there was dried up, the trees were all destroyed to reduced to ashes, along with all of the grass and plants. Luckily, Twilight was able to quickly restore the area back to it’s former glory while she and everyone else still appeared with black sooth and ashes covering their bodies, including Kion from the present day timeline who began to feel instantly better than before when that ash was placed on where Sumu stung his tail.

Just when everyone recovered from what had happened, Scar reappeared from the little sparks from the flames produced on the sole branch still on fire. Even with what has happened, Scar still feels sure he has this battle under his control as the recovering army appeared to surround the heroes once more as they circled their enemies with bare teeth and claws ready to attack at a moment’s notice.

“Not bad for a bunch of first timers! Not bad! Too bad I’ve decided it’s now time to put an end to this!” Scar locked eyes with Twilight once again who charged her horn ready to defend herself as the former worked his fire magic to muster up enough energy to be able to land a fatal blow to the alicorn with the most hottest and reddest flames he can conquer as dark clouds formed behind him.

He locked eyes with the alicorn ready to fire his strongest firepower yet, but when he fired at her with the attack aimed at her chest...

...Kion suddenly appeared right in front of Twilight unleashing the power of the Roar of his very own right at his evil grand-uncle with fierce determination not to let him kill another friend of his. Thus leaving Scar had no time to react, thus finds himself disappearing when the flames were put out by the very strong winds the Roar of the Elders produced. In addition, it had also blown away all of the Outsiders away from the jungle they were currently occupying.

Kion looked on with a proud smile while the others looked with equally impressed and amazed smiles of their own. As of today, the Kion everyone knew in the true timeline is back.

“The Roar has returned.” The stoic lion stated while smiling proudly with what Kion has just done.

“It sure has.” Twilight said equally proud of the Kion in this timeline and even more so when she sees that the unconscious Kion tagging along for the ride is slowly starting to wake him after having the scorpion’s venom removed. “Kion?” She asked with great hope just when the others gathered around to see what is happening.

Kion returned a weak smile in return. “Twilight.”

Feeling greatly relieved, Twilight levitated the lion towards him and gave him a great big hug.

“So…” Other Kion spoke up highly shocked and surprised to see double before his eyes. “...is he supposed to be me?”

“Yes and no.” Pinkie quickly replied. “Yes, he is you, but no, since he is from another timeline.” Kion still looked confused but didn’t bother to question it. “You’ll get it used to.”

“Anyways…” The physically well Kion turned to the Night Pride along with everyone circling them. “...thank you all for saving me along with reminding me of who I truly am.” He then moved to hug everyone much to their (especially Pinkie's delight). “I couldn’t have done it with you all!”

“Our pleasure, Kion.” The lead lioness returned feeling pleased that it all worked out in the end.

After seeing that their work here is done, Twilight worked her magic to open up the vortex so they can all go back to before the Sonic Rainboom so they restore peace and order to the current timeline. “Come on, Lion Guard.”

The rest of the Lion Guard (with their Kion in tow) all moved to enter the vortex with the leader of the Pony Guard moving to head in last. But not without sharing one last smile with the lion who is now in better spirits just before he turns to leave with the Night Pride to head on over where their home is so they can live to fight another day. That way with a fully prepared army is fully trained and when they decide to take on and defeat Scar, they be ready to vanquish him for good. With that all said and done, they all went their separate ways just when the vortex closed.

The group traveled back through the vortex, this time stopped again in Cloudsdale before the whole race and Rainboom ever happened. Twilight levitated the rest of the group, thus stopping them from falling.

“Okay, good. We’re back where it all began.” Twilight commented upon seeing that they made back right where they want to be.

“Yep.” Fuli commented in agreement seeing this as a second opportunity to make things right with the world. “Now to fix this mess.”

“Yep.” Twilight agreed back. “All we have to do now is find Starlight and—" She got cut off mid-sentence when she along with everyone else were all trapped in place inside a large crystal prison, which prevented them from moving their body with the sole exception of their eyes. The crystal landed on a cloud and slowly started to sink down due to the weight.

“Well, finding] her will be easy!" Starlight commented as she levitated her body upwards. "But stopping hers gonna be harder than you think."

With the group trapped within the crystal prison, Starlight took this opportunity to gloat about her scheme, while levitating herself around the crystal, which slowly sank deeper and deeper into the cloud.

"Sorry to disappoint you, but I created that spell to send myself back in time, so even when you cast it, I still get sent back here. It wasn't difficult to change Star Swirl's spell. He'd already done the hard part. But figuring out I could use the map to go to any time or place, and pull you along with me?" she gave a short laugh, gloating at her brilliance, "I even impressed myself with that. I knew you'd try to stop me. You're so predictable. Why else would I leave the scroll behind? Touching it triggered the map to whisk you here, and watch me erase the one thing that links you with your friends along with your precious, dying, unconscious, and spoiled prince!"

She ceased her levitation spell as she allowed herself to land on the crystal, her weight causing it to sink deeper and deeper as she ranted. "My village was a sanctuary of equality, where nopony's cutie mark allowed them to feel superior! It was a special place, and you and your friends took it away!"

Starlight rolled her eyes once the crystal prison now dangled from beneath the cloud and levitated herself once more to continue her rant. "Now it's my turn to take something special from you! Without the Rainboom, you and your friends will never form your special cutie mark bonds along with creating the very first Pony Guard and Kion will never meet and get to know any of you that is of course he is still alive and will live to tell the tale. Cutie marks for cutie marks! Sounds like a fair trade to me!"

Suddenly she finds herself flying and screaming away when Twilight’s magic suddenly imploded right above. All with a look that states she is not having any of her attempted justifications. “Think again.”

Ono chuckled at the sight of enemies having their evil schemes literally blowing up in their faces. “Oh, the irony and karma. Wouldn’t you agree? Fuli?! Beshte?! Spike?! Bunga?! Where did you go?!”

"Twiliiiiiiight!"

“Onooooooo!”

“Oh!”

"Oops!"

Two fliers quickly swooped down to save their wingless friends. Ono caught Spike and Bunga once more and managed to hang onto them this time around while Twilight levitated the others including the unconscious Kion.

“Man, that pony’s annoying.” Bunga remarked, already fed up with the unicorn at this point.

“You said it!” Fuli remarked in agreement. “But now we can make things right by stopping what she plans to do to the Sonic Rainboom.”

"Let’s go!” Twilight led the way while making their way on over to where the race is set to happen.

With Twilight's spell to disguise the team as ponies from this timeline, the five friends set their plan into motion. With careful stealth, they snuck their way from cloud to cloud, keeping a sharp eye for their nefarious foe. Bunga and Beshte popped their heads from a cloud and Bunga used his new hooves to make a cloud shaped radio phone and spoke into it.

"Big B this is Little B. The breezies are in the hole cue the balloons.”

“Huh? Do you see her?”

“No! The coast is so far clear and there is no sign of her! Proceed with caution!” Bunga sadly sighed. “Nobody likes code names anymore.”

“Copy that.” Ono returned.

"Okay, keep your eyes peeled." Twilight instructed everyone.

"Right!" Spike replied on board with her lead.

"We have to stop Starlight as soon as Rainbow Dash and those bullies race by!"

Ono then spotted something from down below and tried to get the princess's attention. "Um, Twilight?"

"So be ready."

"I know, but—"

"Because she could pop up anywhere!"

"Like over there?" Spike handed the princess the binoculars for her to see for herself. There Starlight Glimmer is currently speaking to the bullies and Fluttershy.

"Just remember how you'd feel if someone said those things to you." Starlight said to the two bullies, which actually made them look down in regret just when the Guard arrived on the scene.

"What's going on here?" Ono demanded with narrowed eyes at the unicorn, who smiled in triumph.

"Oh, I was just reminding these two colts how hurtful teasing can be."

"Well, don't!" Ono immediately stopped himself once he caught what he had just said, "I mean... you were?"

"Of course!" Starlight said, while kindly petting young Fluttershy's head, "In a world where everypony is unique, some are bound to feel more special than others. But that isn't a license to be cruel, is it?"

Admittedly, it is true despite of how manipulative and self-serving the true intent was. If there was any doubt of how she swayed a village full of ponies to follow her cause, now it makes sense.

"No, of course not…"

"Oh, isn't it a shame we don't live in a world where everypony is equal?" Starlight wrapped her front hooves around the three ponies, making them smile. "No one would ever tease anyone there! Wouldn't that be nice?"

"Mm-hm." the children replied in agreement.

"No, it wouldn't!" Fuli spoke up before catching herself and backpedaled a little after realizing what she was saying, "I mean, it'd be nice not to be teased, of course, but that's not the same thing!"

"Come on, Fluttershy! Maybe I can help you get through the course this time." The young colt offered.

"Well, I-I sure could use the practice…" Fluttershy smiled and happily galloped away with them knowing that they’ll be nicer to her going forward. But as nice as this was, it doesn’t change the fact that there is no motive for Rainbow Dash to perform the Sonic Rainboom at her current age.

Twilight narrowed her eyes at the unicorn as she confronted her about it. "I know you only convinced those bullies to not tease Fluttershy to stop the Rainboom!"

"Oh, that's not true! I convinced them not to be bullies because everypony would be equal!" Starlight retorted while replied using her charming tone of voice, right before reverting back to her sadistic tone of voice. "Stopping the Rainboom is just a bonus."

Without Fluttershy being teased, Rainbow Dash carried on flying through the obstacle course without any motivation to go as fast as her wings can carry her into doing the rainbow.

"This is bad!" Spike said to Twilight, "How is Rainbow suppose to make the Rainboom now?"

Fuli smirked when she immediately thought of something. But not without shooting a death glare at Starlight Glimmer. "This isn't over yet!" She stated right before flying off to catch up with filly Rainbow Dash, with the others following after her.

"If you say so!" Starlight shouted in reply, still smiling in satisfaction.

Ignoring her, Fuli moved to fly up to greet the filly with a bright smile. “Hi!”

"Um… hi?" Rainbow said surprised and caught off-guard to be greeted by a full grown Pegasus in Junior Speedsters Flight Camp.

"You think you can stop for a minute?"

"Sure." She did as she was asked, just when Fuli flew up to her eye level.

"So, I hear you're pretty fast!"

"Pretty fast? Please! I'm even faster than that!"

"Well, if you say so." She replied smugly .

"What's that supposed to mean?" Rainbow asked feeling a bit insulted by that remark.

"Well, if you really want to prove to me you're the fastest, who not race me?"

Rainbow arched an eyebrow, "Um, that wouldn't really be fair. I mean, you're a full-grown pony."

"Oh, are you saying you can't handle it?"

"Of course I can handle it!"

"Then prove it!" Fuli quickly sprinted away and left the filly in the dust. And predictably, Rainbow got riled up enough to accept her challenge right on the spot.

"Oh, I will!" In a matter of seconds, Rainbow Dash flew super fast and managed to catch up Fuli. And just like that thanks to the cheetah’s clever plan to get her to race, the two were now neck in neck as they zoomed across the obstacle course.

The others cheered on for both Fuli and Rainbow Dash. With speeds like that, the rainbow was sure to happen.

But Starlight wasn't about to let that happen. She levitated herself upwards, ready to intervene, but Twilight Sparkle was quick to pounce and tackle her before she could act.

"Oh no you don't!"

While that was going on, Fuli was having the time of her life right now. For her it reminded her of the race she and Rainbow Dash competed in from the very first time they met after defeating Nightmare Moon together. For her to be able to ensure the cemented bonds between the Lion and Pony Guard in a flash, it’s live reliving one of the big days she started to enjoy friendship much like Twilight and was not about to let a green eyed unicorn along with an equally green eyed lion / alicorn to ruin it.

Starlight managed to push Twilight off of her with her legs but the princess was quick to stop her before she could get out of arm’s reach. The two continued, attacking, punching and kicking, one another. During the scuffle, Starlight moved to end it by ramming her head right into Twilight’s ribs causing them both to stumble right in both Fuli and Rainbow’s path. They ended up colliding with the racers, and they all ended up crashing onto nearby clouds because of it, complete with groans of pain and dizziness. Fuli landed on top of Twilight, while Starlight and Rainbow were both hanging on different clouds. Everyone all recovered from the impact, but the damage done in stopping the Rainboom because of it was done.

Starlight levitated herself towards them, smiling in smugly and cocky about what she just did. "Gee, and you were so close. A real shame."

The others were just about ready to, literally, knock some sense into her, just before the time vortex opened up one more and sucked them all inside once again leaving the triumph unicorn behind.

Once more, the team crash landed onto the map, which was still in similar shape as before, only now it appeared to be glowing green instead of red. They had all reverted back to normal, and Fuli was now furious with what had just happened.

“Grr! I nearly had her! Only to be stopped just short of the finish line!"

“Sorry, Fuli. Good try though.” Beshte said in sympathy for his friend.

"This is gonna be harder than I thought!" Twilight commented as she shook her body before levitating the scroll, "We'll have to try again!"

"Hey, Twilight?" Spike spoke up trying to get her attention.

"I don't want to live in that awful future we saw!"

"I don't think you'll have to!"

The entire group huddled together when spears were being pointed directly at their faces. To their surprise, it appeared to be a tribe of ponies, all wearing green colored pain on their bodies with strange markings and mud on their manes and tails, all glaring threateningly at the group while holding the spears. Among them were two very familiar ponies.

"Pinkie? Fluttershy?"

The former pointed her spear at the group, near inches away from Ono’s throat. "Silence, changeling!" She uncharacteristically ordered.

Even more surprising, disturbing, and uncharacteristically was that timid and sweet Fluttershy’s the leader of this little brigade, holding her spear and giving the group the most terrifying death glare they had ever seen. But what really was even more alarming were what she then said.

"All servants of Queen Chrysalis found in these woods must be destroyed!"

Author's Note

Here in Part Two we get to see what it is like where what Equestria and the Pride Lands are like where King Sombra and Scar in separate worlds have taken over. While we see an additional consequence of what happened in Equestria. We also get to see what happened to Kion without the Lion Guard in his life. And it is not pretty.

To further strength the poor boy's heartache, he winds up losing Bunga which along with his father's discouraging words further drove him into bitterness and on a path of loneliness combining both his father and granduncle's worst traits combined in this alternate world. By the time Twilight and the Lion Guard encountered him, he really needed tough love and encouragement in order to feel like the lion he was meant to be and it sure paid off in time when the alternate Army of Scar advanced to attack them with a certain group of future characters coming to the heroes aid.

After another failed attempt to stop Starlight, the heroes now find themselves back in another alternate universe, one where changelings rise to power where more alternate takeovers in the Pride Lands to come in Part Three.

Episode 41: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part Three

Episode 41:

The Cutie Re-mark and the Scorpion's Sting Part Three

Back in the Pride Lands, the rest of the Pony Guard have all regrouped near Pride Rock where each of them are all looking confused and concerned with what has happened already given the rest of their friend’s sudden disappearance.

“Any sign of them?! Because I’ve seen her since this morning.” Rarity urgently asked of Pinkie who had just visited the castle to check up on them.

“No.” Pinkie shook her head. “She and the other’s weren’t at the castle.”

“She wasn’t around at Sweet Apple Acres.” Applejack added having come up equally empty-hoofed too.

“Or around my cottage.” Fluttershy also added.

"Or the castle at Canterlot." Sunset further added.

“Or anywhere nearby. Believe me I even checked and scanned every part of the kingdom left and right.” Rainbow added with sure eyes that tell it’s the truth.

“And the same can be said in the Pride Lands and Outlands for that matter.” Kyoga pondered in thought. “You think something else happened like anything magical?”

“Maybe.” Pinkie replied unsure herself. “Depends if she happens to have any time traveling spells back home, assuming they didn’t get blown into smithereens along with her castle and…” She gasped. “...time travel!”

Sunset groaned as she face hoofed herself in realization. "Of course!"

“Oh, no.” Kyoga also gasped just knowing the dangers tampering with the past has on everyone in the current timeline.

“But I thought Twilight said it is something that is a force to never be reckon with?” Applejack brought up.

“She did. That’s where she, Starlight and the others are.”

“But if that’s true, then that’s means Scar’s plan is underway!” Rainbow Dash reacted in horror as she looked around the skies trying to find anything unusual lurking around while Sunset did one last scout of Pride Rock.

While this was happening, Sumu took the time to stealthily make his way towards Pride Rock while everyone else has their backs were turned.

At the same time, that’s when the whole Kumbuka celebration has started to kick off since they were just given the green light to proceed forward with it as planned.

“Royal Family! Pony Guard! Herds of the Pride Lands! Ponies of Ponyville! Welcome to the great Kumbuka celebration!” Rafiki announced to everyone at the edge of Pride Rock where the rest of the Royal Family are standing from behind.

Everyone including Bunga all cheered with high praise towards the savior of the Pride Lands who tries to keep sharp while trying to enjoy the celebration at the same time.

“Now this is what I call a party.”

“Bunga!” The others scolded in a hushed whisper. Seeing them had him give a nervous and apologetic smile and chuckle before regrouping with the others as Rafiki and the others sang their praises towards their king.

Good King Simba

While everyone was singing and dancing to the tune, Sumu managed to make his way under Pride Rock before moving to climb and sneak up on Simba who is unaware that the scorpion is on his tail. Once he was there, he quickly and silently aimed his stinger right into the lion’s tail who immediately felt it when it happened. In just seconds, Simba himself didn’t feel great before passing out and everyone all gasped in shock when they saw their king fall before their very eyes.

“Simba!”

“Your Majesty!”

“Daddy!”

Nala, Rafiki, and Kiara were the first to react in horror.

“The king!”

“Oh, no!”

Both Rainbow and Fluttershy stated equally shocked when the former had just did a through scan of the Pride Lands.

“No! My baby!”

“We're coming, Simba!”

Timon and Pumbaa gasped who both also ran up to Pride Rock along with the others just when Sumu made his escape to which Sunset herself managed to spot out in time.

“Dad! Daddy! Are you okay?” Kiara cried in a vain effort to get up him on his feet.

“My...tail.” Simba uttered before losing consciousness.

Rafiki wasted no time in looking at the king’s tail before finding the sting mark Sumu had left behind. He gasped when he saw what had happened while everyone else has been distracted. “You have been stung. By a scorpion.”

“Rainbow Dash! Find that scorpion!” Applejack quickly ordered.

“On it!” Wasting no time and in a matter of seconds she was able to spot it making his way back to the Outlands. “There you are.” She said to herself before taking the time to alert the others before flying off ahead. “There's a scorpion running toward the Outlands! A big black one with creepy red eyes! It’s gotta be him!”

“Then we gotta catch him!” Kyoga stated before she and Applejack led the others on over there.

Already on the scorpion's tail, Sunset wasted no time in trapping Sumu in a magic bubble where she wasted no time in shooting her angry eyes at the stinger's treason. But before any words could be exchanged the scorpion managed to poke out an opening out of the bubble and managed to leap on towards the unicorn who was forced to leap away before and without getting stung herself. With this quick opening, Sumu wasted no time in leaping into an escape hole he just created while Sunset grunted in frustration that happened.

“Follow me, everyone!” Rainbow yelled out while rushing on over with a lock on the scorpion that stung the lion king. “Gotcha!” She rushed on over there in a fraction of a second but by the time she managed to get to where the scorpion is, it already managed to dig a hole into the ground causing her to crash and eat dirt because of it. “Yuck!” She yelled out as she spit out the dirt in disgust.

“Rainbow, you okay?!” Applejack asked as she rushed onto the scene.

“Yes and no! But that’s not important!” She pointed towards the hole Sumu disappeared into. “Our treasonous stinger went in there!”

“I'll get him!” Pinkie quickly worked her tail like a drill and powered herself down the hole as fast as Rainbow Dash can fly while said mare flew up trying to spot out the scorpion again.

“Pinkie! Did you get him! The scorpion just came out of another hole in the Outlands like he was digging through a tunnel!”

Said mare just appeared right out the tunnel Sumu just climbed out of it. “Freeze!” She shouted towards the scorpion. “By the power invested in me and in the name of the king, you are under arrest for…” She suddenly felt intimidated by the scorpion’s stinger when he stopped and glared at her with his bloody red eyes. “...treason...in the...Pride Lands.”

“Oh, really? Then bring it!” He dared of the frighten pink pony who immediately created a wet spot on the ground she was standing on like a frighten puppy before yelping on away.

Rainbow who had arrived on the scene was quick to follow suit due to how menacing and deadly he looked. “That's right, scorpion! And don't come back!” She yelled out from the Pride Lands while trying to save face for what had just happened before moving to regroup with the others back on the other side of the border. “And before you say anything, he could not be caught.”

“Let me guess…” Applejack began. “...he was mighty intimidating, scary, and full of deadly venom.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Yep.”

Both ponies returned in shame.

“In all fairness, I would too because they truly do have deadly venom.” Fluttershy consoled. “I remember Ono telling me all about them once when I asked of which creatures in the Pride Lands are the most dangerous so I’d know where and when to steer clear of them.”

“And you didn’t think to mention this earlier?!” Rainbow returned rather irritated at her childhood friend.

“Because scorpion’s like the one that stung Simba never bothered to come across anywhere in the Pride Lands before. Not until now.” She defended.

“Easy, Rainbow Dash!” Applejack had to hold her friend by the tail to keep her getting all mad at her about something that isn’t worth pursing. “You can’t blame her for this! There was no way of knowing when scorpion’s come around these parts of the Pride Lands.”

“Applejack’s right, darling.” Rarity agreed. “We never even seen this creepy and disgusting crawler before.” She then shuddered as she pictured Sumu in her head. “Ugh! Anyway she clearly didn’t know who this scorpion was nor plan this. She doesn’t even have the heart for this sort of thing.”

"Even at her worst, she doesn't." Sunset bitterly said to herself while face-hoofing herself again still mentally kicking herself that she couldn't maintain her grasp on that scorpion.

“That’s true considering that we do know who really sent him.” Kyoga said in agreement. “And now that he’s gone, let’s go check up on the king.”

“Let’s.”

“Oh, I hope he’s okay.”

Both Rainbow and Fluttershy expressed before they all moved to head on back to Pride Rock. And when they arrived there they found both Timon and Pumbaa wailing and sobbing like babies at the entrance to the cave.

“How is he?” Fluttershy asked.

“Don’t ask! Don’t ask!” Timon answered as they both continued to scream and sob their hearts out.

Getting the idea, Fluttershy quickly flew inside while Rainbow moved to push for more details from the two.

“It’s that bad?” She asked in worry.

“Actually, we have no idea. But that's why you shouldn't ask us.” Timon admitted before resuming his sobbing along with Pumbaa.

“But then why would you...Ugh! Forget it.” Rainbow groaned before flying inside to see how bad it is and by finding Fluttershy with her hooves to her mouth while tearing up is any indication. It really is unspeakable bad. “Oh! That bad!”

“Mmm-hmm.” She cried while burying her face in Rainbow’s chest.

The others had all made their way inside and they were all equally horrified and disheartened with what they were seeing.

“Oh my!”

“Simba!”

"It is that bad." S

Rarity, Applejack, and Sunset commented as small tears came out from their eyes as they see Simba in a comatose state and on death’s doorstep. By his side were the mandrill’s at work trying to heal him and his wife and daughter both equally disheartened. A sight that had Pinkie bawling her eyes out like Timon and Pumbaa.

Kyoga managed to steel her nerves as she is the first to approach the lionesses to learn the full scope of the scorpion's sting. “How is he?”

“Kyoga. The scorpion's sting has made your father very ill.” Nala solemnly replied.

“Well…” Rainbow began trying to figure out a way to save him while comforting Fluttershy. “...Then we've gotta do something! We've gotta help him!”

“We're trying our best to help him, Rainbow. We just haven't figured out the best way to help him!” Makini honestly responded wishing the same too. If she knew she would immediately do so.

Just then Rafiki immediately figured out what they can do to help them. “Wait... Wait.” He laughed when the solution came to him. “Of course!”

“What?! What is it?! What can help?!” Rainbow urgently asked.

“Volcanic ash! It will pull out the venom!”

“Really?!”

“But only if we get it in time.”

“Of course!” Kyoga realized. “Volcanic ash is only found at the top of a volcano. But the closest volcano is…”

“In the Outlands!” Applejack finished as she looked on in the volcano’s direction. “And that’s where Scar is waiting for us!”

“Yeah!” Rainbow remarked as she briefly gulped before regaining her composure for the dying king’s sake. “Don't worry, Rafiki. I'll go get that ash for you.”

“Ya mean, we will.” Pinkie cheerfully stated while smiling and standing by the other’s side.

“But…” Rainbow tried to argue against the idea before quickly giving up since time is at the essence here along with seeing Sunset's stern glare. “...all right!” Pinkie *squeed* in response while hugging her before being pushed away. “Just save the hugs, cheers, and parties till after all of this is over.”

“Yes. Yes, Pony Guard. Go to the volcano!” Rafiki quickly agreed with the idea before giving the Guard a gourd to carry for the trip. “Put the ash in here.”

“Good thinkin', Rafiki. The ash'll be in safe hands with me!” Pinkie happily stated while bouncing around with before losing her balance and caused the gourd to crack when it landed on the ground. “Oopsie.”

“Hmm, yes.” Rafiki was able to get another gourd before handing it to Makini this time. “Makini. Go with the Pony Guard. They will keep you safe, while you keep the ash safe.”

“Oh, I will, Rafiki!” She promised while tying the gourd to her staff. “I'll do more than keep it safe. I'll keep it really, really safe!”

“I know you will…” Kyoga pulled out her saddlebag before pulling out a few more gourd’s to place inside it. “...but just to be sure along with the idea it might help the others.”

“Oh yeah!” Makini also realized. “If it can heal Simba then it should work wonders with Celestia, Cadance, and Shining Armor.”

"It can?" Sunset asked with hope and amazement that will remedy the deadly ailments of the Royal Family.

“It can indeed.” Rafiki agreed before speaking to the Pony Guard in a serious tone. “Pony Guard. You must get the ash back by sundown.”

It didn’t take one look for them to see Simba’s current state for them to grasp the severity of the situation.

“Understood.” Sunset nodded on behalf of the team.

“Makini, Pony Guard, let's go!” Applejack then stated while leading the Guard on over to the Outlands.

At the same time, Sumu has made his way back to the caldera where both Scar and Ushari are waiting for him.

“Well done, my scorpion friend.” Scar commended. “Only volcanic ash can help Simba now. Which means the Pony Guard will be on their way here to get it.” He then turned to the cobra by Sumu’s side. “Ushari! Tell the others to get ready. The plan is in motion.”

“Ccccertainly.” He replied with an obedient nod.

“You want the Pony Guard to come here?” Sumu asked slightly confused of his boss’s angle.

“Oh yes, Sumu.” Scar confirmed with an evil smile. “You've helped me set the perfect trap.” He then laughed evilly as he sees everything coming together as planned.

With the Lion Guard accompanying Twilight trying to stop Starlight, Princess Luna along with Karabi and Lite too busy working her magic in keeping the former's sister, along with the newly weds, and future foal in the royal family alive to help, everything is paved down for an easy takeover.

Meanwhile the Lion Guard with the now healing Kion along with the Pony Guard Leader Twilight are all surrounded. Ponies were painted with green markings holding spears to their faces. Among them were Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, but they did not recognize them nor did act like the ponies they know.

Judging from the green surroundings of the area, this not the timeline where King Sombra is ruling and winningc complete with bloody battles and injured ponies. This timeline however, consisted of ponies resorted to living in the Everfree forest, being forced to cover themselves in mud and face paint. The one thing in common with the other future is the fact that it’s showing of what had happened had another enemy took over Equestria along with the many ponies having given up their faith in friendship and compassion in order to survive. Only this time, it is under the rule of Queen Chrysalis and her changeling army.

"Wait! We're not changelings!" Twilight insisted, imploring of them to listen to her. "We're ponies! And he's a dragon!" She explained while pointing to herself and Spike.

Pinkie Pie aimed her spear at Spike's throat threateningly. "A likely story! Do something dragonish!" She demanded of him who belched causing a single green frame to come from his mouth. The flame caused smoke to cloud Pinkie Pie's face, who wheezed and slowly backed away. "That works!"

"The servants of Chrysalis will do anything to save their evil skins!" Fluttershy stated while pointing her spear at the group. Her eyes darting upwards to the strange creatures that aren’t ponies. "Especially fresh meat from strange creatures!"

“What?!”

“Excuse us?!”

“That wasn’t very nice!”

“Yeah! That was very rude of you!”

The rest of the Lion Guard, exclaimed simultaneously, feeling very offended by the comment.

"Stop!" A voice commanded of Fluttershy from among the tress as the figure emerged. One also wearing a green mask, but is also a zebra, carrying a green saddle bag filled with all sorts of pitons and herbs. She wore two golden hoop earrings around her ears as well as a long golden necklace around her neck, Zecora. Only she has a longer mane, still in its Mohawk style but with a single braid tied to the left side of her head. She leaped from the tree in order to inspect these trespassers.

"If they are changelings we'll soon see, though I think they're not what they appear to be."

"Zecora! Please, you have to listen." Twilight pleaded as she attempted to step closer to her old friend, only to be held back by a spear.

“Yeah! We’re not them!” Bunga exclaimed defensively.

Both Pinkie and Fluttershy weren’t convinced.

“Oh yeah?!”

“No we’re not!”

“Then prove it!”

Fluttershy moved to jab her spear on Fuli’s body thus greatly annoying her. In fact, annoyed her to the point she swiftly spun around and kicked the spear out of her hooves and sent it flying into a tree to the far side of the forest. It was there that the tribe of ponies gasped in shock.

"What now? Did we not help our cases by defending ourselves?!"

Zecora stepped closer, inspecting the cheetah. "Changelings seek love to devour, but unlike them, you did not cower." She commented, speaking in her normal rhyming voice. She took a single bowl from her saddle and dipped her hoof into it, covering it with the same green substance the other ponies wore on their faces and bodies. "Beneath this salve, no changeling hides, for it reveals the truth inside." Zecora covered Twilight's face and parts of her body with the green paint, and the same was done to Fuli, Spike, Bunga, Beshte, and Ono.

And as for Kion, well Twilight had to give him support as Zecora supplied the makeup to his face. Even with the venom now out of his body, it is still going to take a while for him to fully recovery to the point he can walk and run again.

A few seconds passed and each of their bodies began to glow brightly. The tribal ponies gasped for this had never happened before. If somepony placed the paint on and did not change then they were not a changeling, but this was the first time anypony had ever glowed. Zecora was quite fascinated by this, and unlike the others, she showed no fear in approaching them.

"What does it mean?" Pinkie asked, too afraid to go near these strangers.

"The meaning is far worse I see, for it is we who should not be."

"I think I can explain." Twilight said.

"If you could at least draw back all the pointy spears, Yeow!” Bunga felt part of a claw get chipped because it while chuckling with a nervous gulp “Please?”

"I'm sure you can, but let's not talk here." Zecora said while leading the way away from where they are standing. "Chrysalis and her army will soon draw near!"

The group followed the wise shaman zebra deeper into the Everfree forest with the tribe of ponies close behind. As they walked they spotted more and more ponies, some more familiar than others, each one covered in the same green mud makeup, unquestionably to ensure that they would not be deceived by the changeling's tricks.

"So, why are you all hiding from Queen Chrysalis?" Ono asked while flying beside the zebra as everyone else walked deeper into the woods.

"The changelings took over not long ago, though I'll wager in your world that isn't so."

"Chrysalis and her army tried to take over Canterlot, but my friends and I stopped her!" Twilight explained.

"Those friends as you know them are not here, alas. But tell me how all this came to pass."

"Starlight Glimmer, a pony who traveled back in time to stop my friends and me from ever coming together! And she's also managed to keep us from meeting Kion and his friends."

"By the tone you speak, I can tell your bond is quite unique."

"It is. In fact, if it wasn't for our friendship our world wouldn't even exist."

"And it is this bond you have in life that keep Equestria free from strife?"

"I guess so."

"I’d say definitely!” Fuli stated with great certainty.

"But this is the second time we've come back and this world is just as bad as the last one!"

"And the same happens in the Pride Lands as much as what happens in Equestria, because we too have a horrible future without the Lion and Pony Guard around to protect it!" Fuli added.

"But if Starlight keeps doing the same thing in the past, how could the present be so different? I mean how is that Queen Chrysalis is ruling Equestria instead of King Sombra." Ono asked.

"Ah, time is a river…" Zecora explained, stopping by a small little river and placed her hoof right in the middle of the running water, causing it to shift on a different course that it was before, "…where even the tiniest changes seen can lead to a cascade of effects downstream." She said before continuing ahead.

"So, any small change Starlight makes can effect the future so much that it becomes…this?" Ono asked, becoming more and more interested with the knowledge that the science of time travel possesses. It certainly was a very complex and delicate subject, quite so. No wonder why Twilight emphasized of why messing around with it is a very, very, bad idea.

"I guess so." The princess agreed. "And judging by how messed up your world became if we had never met…I can only imagine how it must be now."

Zecora led the team to a curtain of vines. "This part of the forest is dark and damp, but it's done well to hide our camp." Gently, she pulled them aside to reveal their secret hideaway, a campsite for refugee ponies hiding from the changelings. Homes were made out of wood with roofs out of leaves from trees, colorful bottles with herbs inside dangled from the trees and doorsteps for easy access. Ironically, it looked livelier than the alternate Ponyville did in the previous future not to mention the Pride Lands during Scar’s reign in both timelines.

A little filly ran up to her father upon seeing the strangers enter the camp. Despite the fact that they were with their leader, they were still wary of whomever entered their campsite. Spike waved hello at the filly, who quivered in fear as she held her father closer.

Bunga looked on in amazement with what he was seeing. "Wow! Not bad for a handful of ponies having to rough it out here!"

A loud shriek was heard among the bushes where three figures emerged. The Lion Guard immediately recognized them when these are ponies they know. Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Applejack. They panted in exhaustion once they arrived at the camp, their bodies were covered in cuts and bruises, along with having their manes and tails tangled with vines.

"Please, you have to help us!" Rarity begged.

"The changelings attacked Ponyville!" Rainbow exclaimed, her wings nearly torn to pieces along with a single chipped ear. "We barely escaped with our lives!"

Bunga was so happy to see them again and was ready to run up and hug them. However, he was stopped when Zecora shielded him from them, much to his confusion.

“What gives?!”

"The only changeling attack I see is the one that come here looking for me!"

“What are you talking about...you mean...oh no!”

Applejack, who was standing behind Rarity and Applejack, slowly approached the zebra. Rarity and Rainbow Dash's terrified expressions shifted to ones of evil intent and hunger. Applejack lifted up her hat, her green eyes looking down at the zebra while smiling wickedly.

"It's taken quite a while to find you, Zecora." The pony laughed as her body was surrounded with green fire. The flames overtook her body, shifting and changing before their very eyes. The rest of the tribal ponies rallied together to fight once the country pony's appearance disappeared to reveal none other than Queen Chrysalis herself.

“OH, NO!” Bunga shouted.

The queen laughed at the tribe of ponies, mocking them as alwayst. "What a lovely village you've chosen to stage your little resistance. It looks absolutely delicious!" The queen licked her lips with delight, ready to devour the ponies. A couple of them approached her, aiming their spears directly at the queen, who slowly backed away without fear.

"Oh come now, Zecora. You're vastly outnumbered!"

Rarity and Rainbow Dash's bodies also glowed before transforming into their true changeling forms. The sound of humming wings could be heard from nearby, and judging from the sound growing louder and louder drawing closer and closer, an entire army of changelings is indeed approaching them right over their heads to prove that Chrysalis was indeed right about her claim that they were outnumbered.

"I know you don't want your charges hurt. Come quietly to the dungeons of Canterlot and I promise to leave the others alone."

"Why would she ever trust you?" Fluttershy bravely retorted with her spear pointed at the dangerous queen.

Bunga whispered to the zebra leader. "Don't believe what she says. She may have the higher numbers, but you've got us. We can take her."

"No." Zecora replied, much to the honey badger’s surprise.

"But-"

"Race to the map while we hold off their attack, stop Starlight and put the whole world back on track!"

“She’s right, Bunga!” Twilight agreed. “They’ll be fine, we just need to focus on escaping while we still can.”

“Besides, time is at the essence!” Ono added in agreement.

The team all agreed that was for the best, especially when Kion is still in need of healing from the scorpion’s sting so they all quickly retreated. But Bunga abruptly stopped once Chrysalis spoke again.

"Time to make a decision, Zecora!"

"Even if what you are saying were true, we'd never surrender to a creature like you!" The zebra let out a battle cry and she and all of the tribal ponies battled it out with the changelings.

Bunga watched in horror as the ponies, fought the best they could with all of their resources they have in order to defend their home and each other. Deep down even knowing it’s foolish, he just couldn’t leave behind like this. So, he charged ahead, taking his friends by surprise.

“Hapana! Bunga!”

“Have you lost it!”

“Get back here this instant!”

“That’s dangerous, Little B!”

Ono, Fuli, Twilight, and Beshte all said in his direction as he moved to charge into the battle on his own.

"Zuka Zama!” He shouted before leaping forward to punch, kick, pounce, and leap over every changeling that came at him left to right.

Once the changelings moved to surround him, he moved to spin around like a spinning top before lifting his tail up to unleash gas from his butt while charging forward. By doing so he was able to create smoke screen that paved way for the changelings to all get easily knocked out by the honey badger who could hardly see and breathe to take in what is happening around them. In addition, for an added bonus, many of the changelings that were surrounding them all passed out from all of the gas surrounding them being too much for them to handle all at once, Queen Chrysalis included. Seeing this just left Twilight and the Lion Guard briefly stunned and impressed that he actually did that on his own.

Bunga smiled at his success at leveling the playing field before moving to regroup back with the others as they wasted no time in making their escape before they could smell the gas along with seeing it disappear long enough for the changelings to recover and attack them.

“Poa!”

“Smelly! But effective!”

“Great job, Bunga! Effective enough to buy us some time! Let’s go!”

Beshte, Fuli, and Twilight all complimented as they all made their escape.

“Yep! If used right, it can actually be used for a pretty good super weapon.” Bunga proudly remarked as they ran together.

“Hapana! Changelings at six o’clock!” Ono alerted when his keen sight managed to catch sight of approaching enemies from the corner of his eyes.

“No problem! Huwezi!” Fuli quickly rushed turned around and charged right at them and managed to literally run circles around them to the point they were all caught in a tornado that grew as high as the tallest trees in the forest.

After several seconds of running, she stopped and sprinted on away with Twilight briefly stopping so she can use her magic to shoot each and every one of them in rapid succession before rushed over to catch with Fuli as they both ran side by side together. They were able to catch up and run ahead of the others just when Twilight worked her magic on the map to reopen the vortex so they can get back to Cloudsdale.

Suddenly, one of the changelings who was just lurking around managed to spot them and lunged to attack them right on the spot. Kion who opened his eyes managed to spot this just in time moved to take action despite his ongoing ailment.

“Beshte!” He shouted at the hippo carrying him before he could run through the vortex.

“What, Kion?!” Beshte yelped when he accidentally threw his friend up in the sky, which is exactly what Kion wanted him to do. “Oh, no!” He stopped in his tracks as he saw the incoming changeling along with the high flying changeling coming right at them which also caught Twilight and Spike’s attention.

Despite being sick, Kion was able to get a good launch from the swing and managed to effectively strike the changeling hard enough to send it flying flying across the Everfree Forest before dropping back down to the ground. And with Twilight quick to fly up and catch him mid-air, he was able to land safely. She still continued to carry Kion with both of her front hooves while Beshte followed after them as they were all the last of the group of time traveling friends to run inside the vortex just when it closed up and the changelings who moved to look for them appeared.

“Impressive.” Spike commented in awe before following after the others while traveling through the vortex once more.

After the Guard had left, airships from afar in this timeline are approaching Equestria. Ships with a certain sky blue symbol on the sides of the ships and two very famailar unicorns looking on with stoic and determined expressions to conquer this kingdom from Queen Chrysalis and her changelings.

"We're here." The violet red mane unicorn remarked to her partner standing by her side. "Equestria is now right in front of us."

"Permission to utilize the orbs and knock out gas?" The lavendar unicorn standing by her side asked in return.

"Permission granted." She stated with a nod with an devious grin as they both shared a evil chuckle together before executing their quick and effective plan to take over Equestria with an army of guards by their side as green colored gas starts coming out of the airships.

Seconds later, the group fell once again where the Pride Lands are, only this time in what appeared to be the barren Savannah. And from the looks of it, there was nothing left, hardly any food and water and only dry vegetation surrounding them. But it looked at least the place wasn’t burned down to the ground.

"Okay...” Twilight said as she looked speechless at their surroundings. “...so the kingdom is still standing….”

“...which means Scar hasn’t been brought back from the dead…” Fuli added.

“Thankfully.” Spike chimed in with very little relief.

“...so then who else could have turned the Pride Lands into a wasteland?” Ono asked as he looked around their surroundings and spotted the identical sky, trees, bones, skulls, and dry riverbed.

“I have a pretty good idea, now…” Twilight calmly answered. “...huddle up.”

“But why?” Bunga asked confused.

“Do it! Now!” Spike commanded of Bunga just when he and the honey badger moved to do that along with the others just when Zira appeared out of hiding ready to pounce on them without warning.

“WHOA!” He screamed just when she appeared as she attempted to land her teeth and claws on him with a vicious growl and snarl. Luckily for all of them, Twilight managed to teleport everyone away just before any blood could be shed.

The group then reappeared in a different jungle similar to the one they visited in the previous timeline, but someway somehow it looked different like they are in a different location this time around. And judging from the minute Twilight took her recharge her magic while breathing deeply it was definitely somewhere far.

“Phew!” Bunga wiped the sweat off of his forehead. “I don’t know what’s worse, nearly having teeth in my face, or having to go through all that all over again?”

“I’d say once is enough, twice is even worse and even more painful! Especially when it involves the same dangerous lioness!” Ono exclaimed as he moved to pass out on the nearby foliage.

“No kidding!” Spike exclaimed before passing out in shock from the near-death experience with Twilight being quick to pick him and make sure he is okay.

“This must be where Zira and her pride took over.” Fuli deduced as she remembered what she saw of the Pride Lands before moving to check up on Twilight who is still recovering from the spell she used to get everyone out of there. “Isn’t it?”

“Yep. And it’s going to be a while until I can get us back there in a flash. It took every ounce of magic in me to get us all out of there alive.” She said in between breaths before making her way to a nearby pool of water to drink water from and relax in for the time being.

“You mean we’re stuck all the way out here?!” Bunga exclaimed in shock. “With who’s knows of whatever lives are on the line right now back at Pride Rock?!”

“Easy, Bunga!” Beshte gently calmed him down. “We’ll save them! We’re just here for a little while.”

“And I wouldn’t think about trying to run through the desert all the way to Pride Rock. The sun is at it’s peak and it is really hot out there.”

“She’s right, Bunga!” Twilight stated. “The hot sun and dangerous heat will severely dehydrate you, then you’ll pass out from exhaustion, and then die, assuming the buzzards don’t get you first.”

“Buzzards?! Eww! Tell that isn’t true!”

“Hard to believe, but it’s true, Bunga!” Fuli replied somewhat bluntly.

“So, until I’m ready let’s take this time to take a breather so we can relax, regroup, and recharge!” Twilight advised as she moved to float in the body of water nearby the waterfall while placing Spike safely on a make-shift raft she quickly created with her own two hooves while also doing the same for the Kion they know in the current timeline.

“Okay.” Bunga conceded in defeat like a defeated child before walking off wondering how he is going to pass the time until they have magic that’ll get them back to the Pride Lands in an instant.

“It’ll be okay, Little B. It won’t be long.” Beshte assured before thinking of an idea they could do together while they wait. “Hey! You want to do something fun together?”

“Like what?”

“A-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh.”

Bunga smiling after getting the idea jumped in on it as Beshte starts taking lead on the singing.

“In the jungle, the mighty jungle...”

“A-wimoweh, a-wimoweh.”

“The lion sleeps tonight!”

“A-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh.”

“In the jungle, the mighty jungle...”

“A-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh, a-wimoweh.”

“The lion sleeps tonight!”

During the singing, Bunga got distracted by a beetle landing in front of him and moved to follow it when it made it’s way into the nearby foliage.

“The lion sleeps to...A-wii...come on, buddy. Back me up! A-wiii! A-Little-B-bum-baa-weh.” He suddenly sees that Bunga is nowhere around. “Little B? Bunga?”

Said honey badger is slowly stalking the beetle from close behind while humming the tune to himself. He stalked the bug up to a log, theatrically hiding behind a tree for a moment before continuing. When he tries to jump over the log he gets stuck momentarily and looks back.

“Beshte…” He asked feeling spooked by the open surroundings and creepily quite feel. “...Fuli?” Now he was starting to get the funny feeling he was being followed. “Whoever is out there you don’t know who you’re messing with!” He shouted before focusing back on the bug that just flew away when turned his eyes back towards it. But when he did he saw another pair of eyes not behind him but in front of him from a hundred yards away locked on him and ready to pounce on him. “Oh, no.” He quietly said to himself realizing what he is really up against. “Okay, since you see me, I think I’ll just take the time to...RUN!” He screamed before sprinting away from the lion who emerged from his hiding spot and started chasing after him.

He leaped and ran over various branches and through the grass as his purser gains ground on him, all while experiencing one of the rare scares of his life and not caring who was pursing him. His main goal was just to escape with his life away from being hunted.

Just then Ono along with Beshte have both heard the commotion from nearby.

“Bunga?”

“What’s going on over there?” Ono flew up and managed to spot the chase from nearby as the two climbed up and down the nearby tree while the latter’s trying to avoid being eaten. “Hapana! Bunga’s in trouble! He’s being pursed by a lion!”

“Little B! I’m coming!” Beshte gasped and quickly charged ahead along with Ono who both rushed on over to his rescue.

And it just so happens that the chase is coming right at them thus allowing Beshte to charge and body slam the lion away from Bunga just when he was about to bite him.

“Twende Kiboko!”

The impact of the blow sent the young lion tumbling backwards a fair distance but he quickly was able to recover and get back up on his paws, glaring at his attacker with a fierce growl and scowl ready to kill the hippo that dared to intervene with his hunt.

He moved in for the charge only for Ono to swoop to keep him at bay. At least for a few seconds until he was backhanded away into the nearby bushes. “I’m okay.” He uttered before passing out from crashing his head into the hard branches he landed into.

With Ono defeated, he turned his eyes back to Beshte who quickly used the opportunity to try to flee from him, but it didn’t take long for him to catch up to him. And it was no contest between them. Luckily for him, Fuli who managed to hear the commotion was quick to tackle and pounce on his attacker in order to save Beshte.

The two tussled before breaking up leading to the two to face down each other before resuming their fighting with Fuli dodged a couple of the lion’s paws before connecting with a few of her own. The lion himself was left surprised yet angered by this before pressing forward as the two got up on their hind legs to trade paws. Then the lion decided enough’s enough by connecting a paw on Fuli that knocked her off of her paws and hard into the ground.

Just before the lion could quickly seize the opportunity to finish her off, he was suddenly swooped off of his paws when Twilight showed up to the rescue where Spike briefly leaps into the fight to breath fire to force their opponent backwards. Then the alicorn and lion wasted no time in trading paws and hooves with the former being able to fend off the sharp claws of the lion while keeping him away from the cheetah he was about kill. Then he tried going for the pounce and ended up causing the two tumble across the ground, up until the fight ended where Twilight pins the lion to the ground much to his complete shock and disbelief.

“Enough, Kion!” Twilight demanded of the lion she recognized due to the golden fur and red mane already starting to grow on his head with the only difference being is that he is a bit bigger, about the size of a teenage lion, and has a pink thin gash of his left eye similar to both Twilight and Scar’s.

“But...How...How do you know my name you strange colored horse!” He grunted as he struggled under the alicorn’s tight grip while stunned by how she too has the same mark he has. “Grr! Let me go!” He tried to bite Twilight on the hoof before being quickly being restrained by the neck before he could even lay a tooth on her.

“I will.” Twilight assured. “But when I do you are going to calmly tell me what you need to tell me. Understand?”

“Sure I guess…” His breath felt tighter due to a hoof pressed on it. “...I mean, all right. All right!” He stated when the alicorn pushed on his throat a little more past his comfort level. With that she moved to get off of him so he could breath…

...right before he used the opportunity to try to pounce on her again, which resulted in another brief tumble and tussle that led to Twilight pinning Kion again.

"How about now? You got it all out your system?”

One fierce glare from the pony made it clear to the defeated lion that he is no position to try pull any sneak attacks on her again and got him to stand down. But even still, that wasn’t enough for Twilight to release his grip since one look into his eyes makes it clear he has a lot of uncontrollable anger inside of him. Especially considering he nearly killed the Guard in a matter of minutes had teamwork not intervened to stop him.

“Yes.”

“Good.”

“So Kion…” Bunga chuckled nervously while still keeping a safe distance from the restrained lion. “...what have you been up to recently?”

“Well…” He began unsure of where to start as the rest of the Lion Guard appeared around them. “...assuming this isn’t the desert playing tricks on me…” Everyone shakes their heads to confirm it. “...I’ve been on my own ever since I left the Pride Lands. Why you ask?! Because ever since Simba felt like I wasn’t taking the whole Lion Guard seriously, it never happened, and I decided to leave what was my home in favor of finding my own true calling. But throughout my traveling I never was able to find what I truly wanted in life before coming to these parts in the middle of the desert. It just never happened.”

“Never ever?!”

"Never ever, ever!”

“Never ever ever ever ever for never ever?!”

“Never ever never never ever ever never!”

“Never ever ever ever ever ever ever ever?!”

“Yes! Enough!” Kion shouted in exasperation with the honey badger’s relentless badgering. “Geez, even in death you’re annoying as Kiara’s friends! Assuming they are her friends!”

Bunga looked on with puppy dog eyes like he was going to cry at that insult with Fuli and Spike both moving to pat him on the back to help him feel better but not without glaring at Kion for saying that to him.

Wanting to continue getting through to alternate Kion had the Guard’s Strongest pressing forward to do the talking. “Have you ever thought of, you know, going back to the Pride Lands to make amends with your family and friends?” Beshte asked hopeful that the answer is yes.

But the answer to that question is not the answer he was hoping for. “No.” He calmly replied as painful memories flooded through his mind.

“Not even once for food and water?” Ono asked.

“I didn’t. At least when there wasn’t any food or water to offer the day I decided to return for just that.” He recalled doing so just recently. “I only came back to the Pride Lands once to get what I need to last until my next stop.”

“What stop would that be?” Ono asked.

“Wherever there is food and water along with shelter so I can be able to relax and live my life without any worries.”

“But why?” Fuli asked finding it peculiar for a more responsible lion to want to do that. “I thought you said you were out trying to find your destiny?”

“I was, but I never found it. So I decided it wasn’t worth pursing if I was never going to find it.” Fuli and Twilight looked on in disbelief. “Things change over time and it sure helps that other animals I’ve come across have given me reason to believe that. Too bad they never get to live to tell the tale.”

Fuli stammered in response before voicing out. “You did what?!”

“I hunted them down and killed them.” He bluntly answered with no remorse in his tone of voice. “Something that I would have done to you all had your horse friend not intervened.”

“Hey! They happen to be our friends and if anything killing us right then and there would have done more harm than good.” Spike furiously defended.

“And this coming from the lion who initially thought we were dead?! Seriously?! Are you kidding?!” Fuli further expressed while sharing her anger right back at the lion who just tried to eat them seconds ago.

“Nope! Leopards, zebras, antelope, hippo, you name! All were fatally taken down for crossing me.”

“Kion!”

Ono ended up throwing up on the side with the very thought going through his mind while Bunga and Beshte looked on with their blood running cold equally shocked as Fuli with what they are hearing. The nice and responsible protector of the Pride Lands is now an aggressive and rude predator walking and pouncing around the endless Savannah.

“Oh, that is disgusting!” Spike remarked looking in horror at the lion’s angry eyes.

“Harsh but true and well-deserved on their end. And if any of you want to join them. Go ahead and be my guest and make my day. I couldn’t care less with what happens to you or anyone else I’ve met.”

“You mean like…” Bunga then tried to say in a sing-song tone with music playing in the background. “...be our guest! Be our Guest…”

“No!” Kion shouted once more clearly livid at the honey badger for constantly asking stupid questions along with the music abruptly cutting off like a record mid-song.

Seeing this conversation is going sideways, Spike moved to ask more about what happened the day he returned. “With all said and done Kion, it doesn’t explain what happened the day you returned to the Pride Lands.”

“That’s when Zira and her followers came around and took over the Pride Lands.” Kion’s eyes shut closed as he recalled everything that happened that day while Twilight moved to get off of him while using her magic to replay the flashback of him and what went down then.

The two parties met face to face nearby the gorge with a nearby dam with both parties looking on with hatred, claws bared, and gritted teeth ready to throw down as rain rages on from the skies. Both Simba and Zira are on the verge of losing it as they prepare for what should be the final confrontation to settle this once and for all as they stand tall in front of their respective armies. Timon and Pumbaa also joining in on the battle, moved to shake their butts at the Outsiders in order to taunt them.

“Nah-nah-nah-nah-nah-nah!”

“It's over, Simba!” Zira stated with great confidence that she has the winning edge this time around. “I have dreamed of nothing else for years!”

“Boy, does she need a hobby.” Timon quietly remarked to his friend who shakes his head in agreement.

“No kidding.” Bunga said in agreement while watching.

“Last chance Zira. Go home!” Simba warned.

“I am home!” Zira returned with a vicious smile as lightning appeared and thunder rumbled. “Attack!”

Both parties roared vigorously before walking and advancing towards each other. Then the Outsiders moved to trot quickly while the Pride Landers follow suit. And then finally, they broke into a run as they charged towards each other in a full out sprint.

Once they meet up in the middle of the battlefield they began to fight. And the Outsiders all wasted no time in unleashing their most vicious and dangerous moves as they landed bites on the Pride Landers lions all on their leader’s command as she stood tall and perched on a tall rock.

“Go for the eye!” The Outsider did just that. “Break his jaw!” Another Outsider did just that too. “Hit him low!” Another Outsider did just that as she pounced on the Pride Lander she’s fighting. “Get them! Do what you must!”

During the fight, both Nala and Vitani squared off with the latter seeing the former with higher ground.

"Where's your pretty daughter, Nala?" The younger lionesses taunted.

"Vitani!" Nala snarled before her opponent moved to tackle her where the two tumbled across the mud as they fought each other.

“Even with all things considered, there was a part of me that wanted to help him Simba out and I did.” Kion recalled as he happened to see what was happening from across the gorge, watching on in dismay before making his on towards there. “I got there as fast as I could and by the time I got there the Outsiders were starting to gain the edge on Simba and his pride.” He happened to spot the Outsiders all moving to swarm said lion king himself.

After some struggling, Simba managed to break free and swiped the Outsiders away from him in a swift swing of his paws. Then Zira approached him and struck him to the ground. Immediately, the Outsiders and Simba's pride halt their attacks as they all moved to watch the fight with concern.

Simba managed to get to his paws and faces off against Zira who stalks in a slow circle around him. He kept his eyes locked as he watches Zira's every move. Upon seeing this, she moved to switch directions, while continuing to circle Simba who likewise did the same.

Then the two roared as they reared onto their hind legs, each lifting a paw ready to strike. And at the exact same time they both slashed their claws over one of their eyes, drawing blood and both causing them to cry out in pain when it happened. Both then moved to fight through the pain as they dragged out their bloody battle by slashing and biting each other from every limb, hair, and paw.

It lasted for a few minutes up until Simba managed to slam Zira down into the ground and moved to throw down one more time to finish her off. However, Zira was quick to recover as she pressed forward to quickly slash Simba in the face again and successfully cut off one the lion’s leg’s before he could even have the chance to finish her off thus leaving him helpless in the psychotic lioness’s mercy.

With another vicious teeth sporting grin she stated before Simba. “I told you I would destroy you!” She then raised a claw up ready to finish the job in front of the defiant eyes of her defeated opponent when…

“Oh no you don’t!” Kion shouted when he managed to slam into her and knocked her away from his father much to his astonishment as he never thought he would come back to his aid even with what had happened the last time they saw each other.

Zira after recovering from her brief surprise, growled furiously in response before charging at the young lion daring to interfere with her final revenge who likewise did the same. Kion managed to pounce and tackle Zira to the ground where Zira was able to nearly bite the young lion who likewise managed to land a few good bites, hits, and kicks on her despite his size. At least until she managed to knock him head first into the ground before turning her back on him thinking he’s done for. But as soon as she did, the young lion quickly recovered and repeated his previous attacks even managing to get a few good kicks to the face before being slammed down harder into the ground thus defeating him for good.

Kion struggled to get himself up as he finds himself pinned down to the ground by two Outsider lionesses who both managed to successfully restrain him despite managing to slip away from them at first.

With the last resistance defeated, Zira turned to Kion who still struggled and shouted while trying in vain to break free. “Well, look at the hero. And here you thought you could come into my kingdom.”

“Let me go! You can’t do this!”

“As the new queen of the Pride Lands! I can do just about anything I want! Expect of course threaten my family and get my sons to kill Simba himself.” She firmly stated while looking at the cub in his eyes while kneeling down to make sure he is listening and paying full attention to her. “And since you tried to deny me of my revenge in a valiant yet wasteful effort, you get a front row seat so you can personally watch as we put down your family for good.” She maliciously chuckled as she moved towards Simba who like father like son refused to cower in the face of death’s doorstep. “Your time is up, Simba. Any last words?”

“Yes. My name is King Simba, son of King Mufusa, both he and me are the rightful and true kings to the Pride Lands, and you and Scar can go buck yourselves.” Zira growled furiously in response. “So, do what you’re going to do…”

In one quick swipe, Zira’s claws effectively put an end to the lion king and in an instant he was dead much to the horrified lion’s horror who could only futilely struggle as she proceeded to do the same to his mother along with the remaining Pride Landers that survived the struggle. At that point, he lost all will to fight as he is reduced to tears when he sees everyone he loved and care about dead all bleeding out right in front of him.

“Look at me!” Zira demanded as the lionesses moved his head so that he is facing her directly. “The only reason you’re still alive now and they’re not is because you’re not even worth the trouble of killing. And like Scar would do in a situation like this, he would do the same wanting the whole family legacy to die with you. From now on, your only destiny is spending the rest of your days knowing that is all your fault and if you choose to come back again, I will destroy you!” With that she slashed Kion right in the left eye who yelled out in pain before tossed him aside into the nearby river just when the dam burst.

Lucky for him, his body managed to grab onto the nearest log and was barely able to stay afloat until he passed through the rapid parts of the river along with the waterfall, before finally reaching the shore. By then he just cried to himself with what had just happened once he climbed out of the water much to the other’s shock and horror with what they just watched.

“All of them? Simba, Nala, Rafiki?” Twilight asked as she barely breathed in her question.

“Yes.”

“What happened to my uncles Timon and Pumbaa?” Bunga asked worried about their fates in this timeline.

Kion looked aside with his eyes closed as the memory replayed in his mind both standing up against a rock wall watching the fight drag on. But not without saying. “Some things Bunga, are better left unsaid.”

“Whadda we do?! Whadda we do?!” Pumbaa frantically asked his partner

“There's only one thing we can do, Pumbaa.” He stated while smacking his fist into his hand and spread his arms wide. “When the going gets tough, the tough get going. That's our motto!”

“I thought our motto was "Hakuna Matata!”

Timon face palmed himself in response to his comrade’s confusion. “Pumbaa, stop livin' in the past! We need a new motto.”

With that both yelled out a battle cry before charging into the thick of the battle field. “Yeehaw!”

But when they arrived one of the Outsider turned towards them letting loose a mighty frightening roar that had them pulling up and screaming in terror.

“Like I said, let's get going!” Timon screamed before riding on Pumbaa as they both scream and retreat from the lionesses now gaining up on them as they run away into the distance never to be seen again.

“No…” Bunga uttered breathless as he fell to his knees in despair that his beloved uncles are dead in this timeline. “...not Uncle Timon and Pumbaa!”

“Sad but true.” Kion said with a tone having a degree of sympathy for the grief stricken honey badger for a moment. “It was tragic when it happened and everyone involved.”

“What about your sister?” Spike asked noticing that she wasn’t there along with the others.

“She left the Pride Lands before the whole battle went down that night. And when she reunited with her boyfriend Kovu they left to start a new life and pride together afterwards. For the similar reasons why I left the Pride Lands.”

“You mean between her and your dad?” Fuli asked.

“Yes. She got fed up with the sheltered life Simba was making her grow up in and it took an early morning ambush where Kovu was wrongly blamed and banished for it that gave her the push to finally decide to leave him after he refused to see that he wasn’t at fault for it. While Kovu was trained to follow in Scar’s paw prints following his legacy along with actually wanting to kill Simba, he was never told the truth of how and why this whole conflict came to be up until Simba himself told his side of the story.”

“And how would you know this exactly?” Fuli asked suspiciously.

“A combination of eavesdropping, spying, monitoring, observing, and an extra set of eyes.” He answered while a certain group of reptiles come from their hiding spots.”

“What?!”

“The skinks?!”

“Ushari?!”

“Hello, honey badger!” Ushari returned with a friendly hiss. “S-s-s-o wonderful to meet your acquaintance.”

“B-b-b-but why?! How?! He being friendly?! To me?!”

“Probably because he doesn’t know you from this timeline because, you know, you’re dead without Kion being able to rescue you.” Ono whispered in his ear.

Now he gets it. “Oh, right! But still creepy!” He whispered back to Bunga before he and the others were all ears for learning about Kion’s ties with Ushari and the skinks and how they came to be allies.

“I met Ushari along with the skinks after we crossed paths in this very jungle. Through their constant surveillance we learned about how Zira and the lionesses have run the kingdom after Simba’s downfall disrupting the balance of the world forever. Much like me, we both hate the lionesses for what they done or in Ushari’s case got trampled by them multiple times.”

“Sad but true.” Ushari nodded to confirm this.

“It was there we came to find common ground where in exchange for getting to live in the Pride Lands, he and his allies all will help me become king of the Pride Lands and I would ensure that Zira and her pride paid for what they have done.”

Hearing this sparked worry and concern with what they are hearing.

“And what common ground would you and Ushari have together other than a mutual hatred for the Outsiders?” Ono dared to ask.

“Continuing the family legacy. Scar’s legacy.”

Hearing that sparked alarmed shock among the Guard as they all exclaimed. “Scar?!”

“Yes.” Ushari confirmed. “For even for his terrible tenure as king, he did help other lions, even if they did dare to cross us.”

Twilight scoffed in response. “Right and at the same time he had no qualms of letting the lions who lived there their entire life nearly starve to death had Simba not shown up when he did to take back control of the Pride Lands.”

“Maybe so, but if he were in my paws, he definitely wouldn’t take any of this lying down and he would be absolutely sure to ensure there would be justice towards those who dared crossed him before.”

“Justice?” Twilight returned with a look of disbelief to see what has become of Kion in this timeline.

“Yep.”

“But Kion…” She struggled a bit before deciding on what to say next. “...this what you talk about, it’s not justice. What you’re talking about is revenge.”

“And?” Kion raised an eyebrow expecting some point to come across that’s worth his time and interest.

“And you would doing exactly what Scar would want you do to by committing to something that never ends from one lion to another. And even if you do succeed, there wouldn’t be a kingdom to rule. At least not with the support you have right now.”

Kion glared at the alicorn furiously looking like he is about to kill her for what she is saying about them. “Is that so?!”

“Yes, because the Circle of Life depends on rulers who truly understand the very balance to acknowledge and respect every creature that lives there and keeps the kingdom’s existence for everyone to live peacefully in.”

“And just how exactly did you know exactly what Simba said word for word along with Grandfather Mufusa?!” He asked with his bare claws on the verge of striking Twilight at a moment’s notice where Ushari and the others wisely decided that they should leave them before they get involved in a messy confrontation.

“Believe it or not, that’s what they would have told me in the similar vein that a ruler I know back home would say if she were in your father and grandfather’s paws.”

Kion scoffed in response seeing this is indeed a waste of time in his eyes. “Whatever. Even if this is true anymore, why should I listen to you of all horses, ponies, or whatever you’re supposed to be…” He said while eyeing both her horn and wings specifically. “...it’s not like you ever had been betrayed by your friends and family, along with trying to forgive them, only to get further stabbed in back and see them die right in front of you.”

“Yes, I do!” Twilight firmly stated to assert that this is indeed true. “Back in the real timeline, where you and I are friends, best friends, I had dealt with a similar situation of where it happened to me. Like you, I wound getting scarred from the whole ordeal by Scar himself. And sometime later, I ended up giving into my anger and hatred and went down the same dark path you’re going through where I nearly killed everyone I loved. Heck, I’m even going through the same ordeal right all thanks to him along with an equally vengeful unicorn.” She further explained while resisting the urge to cry herself. “Because of them, I’m on the verge of losing my mother-like mentor, brother, and sister.” Kion could only look on sincerely taken aback at what he is hearing like he is looking at his sister who too can relate with him. “Even while blessed with good fortune, this scar serves as a reminder of what I nearly lost and threw away in pursing revenge.”

While sympathetic and really definitely seeing eye to eye with her to the point he realizes what he is doing and is about to do is wrong, but he still looked on firm and serious about going through his plan.

“I’m sorry, Twilight. But I have just about everything I need to finally take down Zira and her pride and I’ve come too far to turn back now.”

“Even if that means doing of what you feared most?” Fuli asked. “The one thing you firmly stated you would never want to become ever!”

“And even if you do return to the Pride Lands, how do you plan on taking down an entire army of lions on your own?” Ono asked.

“For once I got to agree with them, because that’s not an easy feat like taking on hyenas, jackals, crocs, and vultures.” Bunga commented feeling this is too brazen and bold to carry out without thinking things through.

“Yes I know.” Kion remarked in slight annoyance before smiling (but not in the good kind similar to Scar) “Which is why I have come up with a plan that’ll take care of them. A plan that involves Ushari and the skinks along with additional help.” He turns his head to see it coming his way. “And here it comes now.”

Said help happens to be none of than the Outsiders Scar himself recruited in the current timeline. Janja and his hyenas, Kiburi and his crocs, Reirei and her jackals, Mzingo and his vultures, and of course, Sumu the scorpion.

“Scorpion?! AAH!” Both Janja and Spike yelped with the former leaping onto Reirei then Kiburi’s backs in fear much like he did in the other timeline and the latter leaping onto Beshte’s back and then Twilight’s.

"Look out! Coming through!”

“Make way! Coming through!”

“Hey!”

“Watch it!”

Kion rolled his eyes in response before moving to assure him he has nothing to fear. “Easy Janja, he’s not going to sting you.”

“And he’s not going to sting you either, Spike. Isn’t that right, Ushari?!” Twilight asked the question with a stern glance to make sure that’s the case.

“Yes.” Ushari nodded calmly. “Sumu’s venom is reserved for a more royal target.”

“You know what to do, Sumu?” Kion asked of him who likewise is on board with the plan.

"And do it I will!” Sumu slammed his stinger into the ground before moving on ahead to carry out his task as he and the other Outsiders moved their way on towards the Pride Lands ready to take down the traitors to the crown. But not without Kiburi throwing Janja off of his back in annoyance.

And more and more was already not proving Kion’s case as he makes it pretty clear he is really acting and doing what Scar himself is doing now, further frightening and alarming the Guard themselves.

“Now if you’ll all excuse me, I’ve got much needed business to attend to.” Kion moved on ahead ready to catch up and join his followers but not without being intercepted by Twilight who magically disappeared then reappeared right in front of him.

“Kion, please! I understand that you have every right to be mad at Zira. But I really must insist against all of this. By doing what you’re doing you’ll be making the same mistakes Scar made, what I made. I should have never given into my anger and desire for revenge when I should have made effort into forgiving my friends and family much like Scar did. By doing what you’re doing you’re going to be no better than the lion who killed your grandfather and the lion who killed your father.”

“Twilight’s right.” Fuli added in agreement as she rushed on over by Twilight’s side. “Giving into your anger and hatred, becoming bitterly resentful and violent, recruiting every other Outsider to join your cause, resorting to murdering someone in cold blood. Is this what you really want anyone around the Pride Lands and the rest of the Savannah to remember you as for? Doing exactly the opposite of being your true self? Kion, this isn’t like you!”

“Maybe the Kion you knew wouldn’t, but right now you’re looking the Kion who’s got nothing left to lose.”

“Except the whole kingdom that your dad and granddad have all worked hard in ensuring the whole Circle of Life goes on for years to come.” Ono pointed out.

“Yeah, what you are going? Go to the nearest volcano, use your Roar, and cause an eruption so huge it’ll destroy your mortal enemies and the land around it?” Bunga dared to ask thus inadvertently sparking another idea for Kion to use as he deviously smirked in response.

“No. Not yet.” Kion stated before running off on towards there to carry out his plan.

“Bunga?!” The others glared at him for further encouraging him to give into his darker impulses.

“I was kidding!” The honey badger defended.

“Too bad, that gave him all the more reason to proceed with this evil plan to overthrow Zira and her pride.” Fuli bluntly remarked.

“Come on!” Twilight ordered of everyone so they can get on over there with magic after enough time has passed for her magic to fully recharge. During which she also remembered to use her magic to fetch the still weaken Kion they know and befriended so he can accompany them and doesn't get accidentally abandoned and erased from existence. And within seconds, they did as they were ordered and they were all out of the jungle in a flash.

Reappearing right at the border separating the Pride Lands and Outlands, Twilight wasted no time in carrying out directives of her own in order to ensure the worst of the worst doesn’t happen while handing the other Kion in Beshte's care by placing him on his back. “Fuli, you and the others stall the Outsiders from entering the Pride Lands while I try to talk down Kion before he makes the biggest mistake of his life.”

Fuli was fully on board with no questions asked. “You got it, Twilight. Huwezi!”

Kion himself just happened to be already at the Outlands Volcano and had just appeared right inside the volcano to get a good look at the caldera itself along with a full hot pit of boiling lava in it’s fully glory. Inside the pit close eyes could see the Mark of Evil shine brightly inside the lava. One look at the pit gave Kion the assurance that with his Roar he can create a very powerful eruption that’ll destory his enemies in one fellow swoop, regardless of whatever damage results from the carnage.

“Perfect!” He smirked as he moved towards the small cliff leading towards the very center of the pit when Twilight appeared right before her.

“Stop!”

“What in the Pride Lands?! You again?!” Kion exclaimed in frustrated annoyance. “What do I have to do get a magical restraining order?!”

“Kion, you can’t do this!”

“Can’t being I actually can if I wanted to or can’t because you won’t let me?!”

“Can’t as it you’re not doing that!” She firmly stated even with her back on the edge of the cliff. Even still she showed no fear in her eyes. “You don’t understand. It’s not happening!”

Kion got into a pouncing position ready to knock her in it if that’s what it takes to get her out of his way. “Just say the word and you’ll be saying goodbye right now, Twilight!”

But Twilight remained unfazed as she is determined to get through to him for the sake of his sanity and morality. “Look! Whatever happens next, it’s not going to go down the way you think it is.”

Kion remained resolute in the matter. “It will if I push forward, now get out of the way so I can finally achieve my destiny! There is no other choice!”

“No! You do have another choice, Kion! Something only one Lion Guard leader can do to another that’ll still allow you to stop Zira!”

“Is that so?! Well if that’s the case then what would that be, I dare ask?!”

“Let go of your anger and hatred, and fight for what’s right.”

“But how?! How can I let go of it when I have every right to be?! I can’t!”

“You can. You just need to take a deep breath and remember what you’re really fighting for. That this is the right thing to do and not for revenge.” She moved to back him until they were both off of the cliff and on flat terrain. Seeing that the lion is still uncertain and puzzled on how to do so, she gave him this advice to draw on. “Remember your true purpose in life. Who you really are. You are Simba’s son, Mufusa’s grandson, fighting to free the Pride Lands from horrible tyranny and seeking to uphold their legacy to restoring the kingdom to it’s former glory. Deep down in your heart is a fierce, loyal, honest, and kind lion determined to protect this very Savannah from those who seek to threaten and ruin that very balance that connects everyone to the Circle of Life.”

Kion listened and closed his eyes as the gentle winds from his grandfather’s spirit flow and gently blow on his mane. For the first time in years, Kion felt his anger and indifference to everyone around him melt away like rain extinguishing the burning fire of hatred inside of him. And for the first time, he felt at peace and whole with himself. Maybe this pony he hardly knew was onto something…

...Meanwhile, the Outsiders are just reaching the border all ready to step into enemy territory.

“We all know the plan.” Janja stated to the others. “Jackals on the left, crocs on the right, hyenas in the middle.”

“But only when we see Zira herself fall.” Reirei added.

“Then we get to eat her.” Kiburi also added ready to carry out his part.

But just then, they heard voices they did not expect to hear right before they set a paw in the Pride Lands.

“Stop!” Fuli barked at them while appearing right in front of them. “You can’t enter the Pride Lands just yet!”

“And why is that, cheetah!” Janja demanded.

“Because your leader hasn’t given the order just yet.” Spike riding on the cheetah’s back just when the others arrived on the scene appeared.

“But he already has.” Kiburi pointed out.

“Not with a clear head, and having thought things through.”

“Come on, little dragon, cheetah. Don’t make us want to eat you for dinner! We already have bigger game to pursue.”

Bunga moved to have his say in the matter. “Sorry, Reirei. But my boss says your not going anymore and you are all not taking another step forward without your boss’s proper say so.”

“He’s right.” Ono stated in agreement. “And if I were you I won’t even plan to take any further military action without an order from your commander-in-chief.”

“Okay, okay.” Janja moved to try to settle this. “Since this is the way it’s going to be, then I guess we could settle right now…and what better way then a meal to fuel up before the big game.”

“I couldn’t have thought of anything better than that, Janja.” Reirei smirked fully on board with the idea as they all surrounded them.

“Me neither.” Kiburi chuckled malevolently ready to feast on this defiant group of friends trying to stop them from doing what they want to do.

But Spike being the one with the firepower to deal with this kind of situation moved to step forward with Bunga quick to hold him up by having him blast rapid fireballs right at each and every Outsider as they spun around in a full circle. And in a matter of seconds, the team was all knocked aside like they’ve been hit by a one lion army. A fully grown lion that is.

“Wow! That hurt even more than I though it would.”

“No kidding.”

Both Cheezi and Chungu remarked in surprise and pain while looking singed all around their fur along with everyone else.

Doigoi looked on like he doesn’t recognize this place. “Is this Madagascar! Where are all of the cute little lemurs and all of their friends?!”

That earned him another kick to the face by his mate. “No, you idiot!” With that aside, she turned her annoyance and fury towards the Lion Guard and Spike. “But we do have a group of friends who are now really worth our time.” She added now ready to do her worst to these strangers.

“That’s right!” Kiburi also stated ready to do the same. “You were warned against standing in our way. And we’re not going back to Kion without destroying the Zira and the lionesses.”

“Well you better listen now because you are now.” Fuli stated ready for them to bring it. The three leaders of their respective clans all growled as they all got ready for that fight with Kiburi approaching Fuli first.

“Oh, yeah?!”

“Yeah!”

“Oh, yeah?!”

“Yeah!”

“Oh, yeah?!”

“Yeah!” With that last shout, Kiburi stumbled backwards and ended up tripping on his tail.

“That’s it!”

But before he could retaliate, Kion’s voice put a stop to all of this. “Enough!” He stated as he appeared on a nearby tall rock with Twilight by his side. “These guys are on our side and I don’t mean side dishes.”

“But?! What?!”

“Even though we don’t see eye to eye with each other at times, there is one thing I won’t tolerate. We never hurt the innocent.”

“Since when?”

“Since now. And I have just figured out a new approach to how we deal with Zira and her pride and you all better listen because I really just thought about this very through.”

“Oh really?” Janja laughed. “And what took you this long to figures things out?”

“A friend of mine, helped me see things more clearly.” Kion said with a genuine smile in her direction who likewise did the same right back at him before turning back to his army. “And if you all corporate with me, then I can say the same for you all.”

“But what about dinner?”

“Yeah!”

“What are we supposed to eat?!”

The hyenas all demanded.

Kion turned to Twilight who likewise worked her magic in making said food appear right before them much to their surprised delight. For the crocodiles, fish. For the jackals, legs of antelope. And for the hyenas, legs of zebra.

“Consider it a one time gift as a token for not eating me and the others on the spot. But after this, you’re all on your own, because your future king will be calling the shots on what’s fair game. And judging from the looks of things, I think things are going to be a lot different going forward.”

“Different?”

“Different, how?”

Both Janja and Reirei asked while Kiburi remained indifferent like he always does.

“Where the Circle of Life is respected and realized to it’s fullest and peace and harmony well thrives throughout the kingdom.”

“Hmm. Well...I suppose we could do that.” Janja said after giving it some thought after his hunger has calmed down.

“Sure why not. I’m sure things will get better if Kion is able to keep Janja under control.” She said in a still mean yet somewhat friendly manner.

Kiburi however didn’t change his thoughts on the whole matter. “Don’t matter who’s in charge and how things are run around here. We crocodiles can fend for ourselves.”

And that left Mzingo and his flock to munch on the leftover scraps left behind after the others gone done eating. “I agree with the hyena and jackal. Though maybe we should probably consider a vote on what the best course of action is going forward…” Both Kion and Twilight fiercely glared at him along with the rest of the Guard ready to reconsider their position if they didn’t obey. “...but then again, that wouldn’t be necessary. What our king says goes.”

“No it won’t and yes it will.” Twilight smiled as she worked her magic in creating the portal that’ll allow her and the Lion Guard sans alternate Kion to travel back to Cloudsdale. “And since our work here is done. We leave the upcoming fight in your capable, kind, and caring paws. She then said to Kion. As long as you remember your true purpose in life, you’ll finally realize your destiny. Good luck, Kion.”

She then got the portal working and in an instant everyone from the Guard was all sucked inside of it leaving a newly reformed Kion ready to lead the Outsiders for a battle they’re sure to win all without seeking to exact vengeance that nearly consumed him much like Scar and Zira. And unbeknownst to him, both his father and grandfather looked on from the heavens both smiling and looking very proud of him for what he is now about to do.

The group made it back to the past, all in their normal forms with the Lion Guard all each having the ability to walk on clouds as opposed to having them appear as Pegasus ponies. Twilight then heard a beam heading towards her and she quickly worked her magic into shielding herself from the impact she would have suffered had she not reacted fast enough. Her eyes narrowed in righteous and brewing fury at the cocky and villainous unicorn standing on a cloud before her. At this point she is done playing games being all nice girl to her. It was time to take her down.

Twilight flew up, unleashing the most powerful magical and fiery beam she could from her horn, but Starlight simply stepped aside, letting the blast hit the cloud instead of herself. "Not bad, but it's gonna take a lot more than that!"

"Lucky for you, there's more where that came from!" The alicorn flew across the sky, unleashing multiple fire bullets in Starlight’s direction, who shielded herself with a force field of her own.

The unicorn went on the offense by firing a continuous beam towards Twilight who effortlessly flew evaded the attack even clearing and powering herself through the obstacle course. To her it’s like she hadn’t faced tougher twists and turns before in her life., Twilight then flew all across camp, dodging each of Starlight's attempts before unleashing a series of fire-fueled attacks her way. Starlight managed to levitate herself so that the flames and beams hit the clouds instead.

"You've really gotta work on your aim." Starlight taunted right before shooting a magic beam from her horn, only to have Twilight teleport herself away from it in the nick of time.

She reappeared right in front of her and delivered the hardest punch she could deliver right to her face. She cried out in pain and nearly lost her concentration due to the impact. She quickly regained focus and managed to keep up her levitation and gravitational spell before she could fall through the clouds.

Starlight moved to retaliate with a set of blasts on her own, but found that Twilight was faster to dodge them then she realized. She was fast, strong, and fearless all packed together. And that is something she is now having a hard time comprehending of this princess is such a skilled fighter.

“Just how she is able to do all of this?!” She mentally asked herself after having dealt with hyenas, jackals, crocs, vultures, and various average ponies before, she finds herself barely able to land blows when it comes to her, Kion, and Scar.

“Probably because I’ve had better experience than you!” The alicorn returned out loud much to the unicorn’s surprise since she never said that to her.

“What do you mean?!” Starlight asked angrily.

“I mean I know what’s it like learning how to fight unicorns like you and I gotta say you’re really out of it.”

“Oh is that right?! Well, how about this?!” Starlight returned feeling increasingly incensed by that remark before unleashing more magical beams her way, all hot and powerful enough to knock away Outsiders in a blink of an eye.

But Twilight was able to swiftly block eacha and every one of them before sending a massive wave of magic right back at her, thus turning her own energy against her, which sent her flying backwards again.

“I mean seriously, of all ponies Scar could have recruited, he chose you?! To think he could have recruited unicorns in magic school that have better aim than you!” Enraged, Starlight fired another beam of magic right at her to which she swiftly dodged before being attacked from the side, causing her to tumble across the clouds.

“Like I said! That was sloppy! Very sloppy!”

Starlight growled, as she unleashed another magical beam at her to which Twilight dodged as well before firing a few magical beams of her own back at her to which she managed to land hits on with each and every attack she threw at her. While Starlight may be a prodigy of magic, she is clear no master of magic on Twilight’s level and is clearly out of her league against her.

"What is she doing?" Ono asked as she and the others watched the fight from the sidelines.

"Playing it smart that’s what she is doing.” Fuli replied looking on with an impressed smile. "She’s playing on her weakness and getting her burning out her energy without having to do too much on her own."

“Ooh!” Bunga got it. “Like watching ponies running a marathon or how you managed to beat Rainbow in a jousting tournament?"

“Exactly!” Fuli winked at the honey badger as they all continued watching the battle in front of them.

Starlight growled as she kept on shooting magical beams left and right at the princess, but it was as if she was striking air. With a glow of her horn, Twilight appeared then reappeared behind Starlight, tapped her on the back, before greeting her with a friendly smile and another punch to the face. The alicorn then unleashed another magical beam right towards the gut before following it up with a kick to the face that sent her tumbling across the runway. Next thing she knew she found herself hanging on the edge of the very end of the runway faced with a huge drop to the ground that only the power of flight can save her if she fell. Before she could recover she saw Twilight appear before her and then latched her hooves onto Starlight so that she can’t break herself free from and was now left at her mercy with sweat of exhaustion and fear coming from her forehead.

"No, you don’t!” Starlight struggled in vain as she tried to break from Twilight’s grasp. “I will not allow myself to go down like this. Let me up this instant?!”

"No." Twilight responded while shaking her head to assert she isn’t going anywhere. “Not until you let the Rainboom happen as it should.”

“So either I give up what I am doing what you say or you do what Scar did to Mufusa and Kion, and almost did to Simba? That sure seems like an ideal thing for a pony like you for you to do. I see you’ve learned very well from him.” Starlight remarked as she struggled to free herself while trying to get under the alicorn’s skin again.

But Twilight wasn’t budging. “Maybe so, but I’m better than that.”

“Oh?!” Starlight briefly smirked as she continued. “And why is that?!”

“Because I’m not going kill you, not while I am looking at somepony who doesn’t even deserve it. Because I’m not like Scar.”

“Oh yes you are! He told me about what you did when you serving him not to mention what you nearly did to your brother after what he did to you. You had him dead to rights, and you ended up saving him even after all of the grievances he gave you! How is that not worthy of wanting to kill someone!”

“Because it’s wrong and you know it!” She returned with steeled nerves as her piercing courageous and fearless gaze had the unicorn gulping nervously. “Even if you did deserve it, I would be setting a terrible example for ponies that would look up to me and I’m sure the same can be said for you too if you were in my hoofs. To kill someone in cold blood would make me and you no better than someone like Scar who has shown to have moral restraints when it comes to victory. Even if he has to burn the whole kingdom to the ground to get his way. And here you’re telling me you actually believe in his cause?!”

“Because he is giving Outsiders a chance to live in the Pride Lands equally alongside the Pride Landers! That’s why! Just like what I had in back in my hometown right up until you and your friends came along and ruined everything I have worked hard for!”

Twilight could only shake her head in disapproval, before pulling up the defeated pony up from the edge of the runway before letting her go as she dropped to the ground in defeat. She growled in anger in response yet is still shaken up by what she nearly when through. She growled in anger as she tried to recover. She didn't care how exhausted she was, she was determined to finish her off even if it took her an eternity to do so.

"Whoa!" Young Rainbow Dash remarked as she sat on the sidelines, eating popcorn while she and the two bullies she was just racing stopped to watch the two ponies duke it out.

"What are you doing? You have to finish your race!" Twilight exclaimed.

"No way! This is way more exciting! How did you learn how to do fight like that?"

"See? You can't stop me no matter what you do." Starlight's horn glowed bright and the time portal opened once more. The Lion Guard could only sigh with resignation as they found themselves going up alongside Twilight for the third time in a row.

"Oh dear!” Ono commented with a deadpan expression before being sucked up alongside the team into the vortex.

"Aww man." Young Rainbow remarked in disappointment and tossed he popcorn aside.

Once again, the team landed near the map, and fell hard on the ground…again. Spike got up and looked at their surroundings. "That's strange…"

"Well, you obviously don't mean us falling, because that's becoming pretty routine." Twilight remarked in annoyance as she adjusted her wing.

"No, it's just the other times we've come back it's been day! But look!"

Like Spike said, the sky above them showed them that it’s nighttime instead of daytime. And once again, they were in the Everfree forest.

"Why would the map bring us back to a different time of day than when we left?" Twilight asked.

"Um, maybe we should figure it out later!" Spike pointed his claw to behind the others, but at this point, they were already expecting something bad to appear.

“Uh-oh.” Beshte commented with alarmed eyes.

“Don’t tell us, Timberwolves are about to attack us?” Fuli asked with a deadpan expression on her face along with the others.

"Yep." Spike nodded.

“Two big ones, both twins.” Fuli also asked.

"Definitely."

"Bring it on." Ono remarked just when the timberwolves appeared along with snarling and growling at their prey.

Without her magic at her disposal due to it being drained from her earlier battles with Starlight, Zira, and Scar, she had only her hooves, horn, and whatever sharp weapons she could use right now. Luckily given that she’s had training to be able to fend for herself without her magic along with a hidden knife in her mane she was ready to take up the challenge.

“Run!” She ordered of Beshte in order to ensure Kion is safe to which he did just that without protest. “Everyone else, cut them down to size then went bolt out of here and after the others!”

“Got it!”

“Affirmative!”

“Let’s do this!”

“Go!”

Upon her command, the four moved to work together like a team as they charged ahead to confront these two timberwolves standing before them. First Fuli charged ahead with her super speed so that would be knocked off of their legs at the same time Ono relentlessly pecked at them so they would tumble backwards. Then Bunga swiftly used his claws to slash the legs off while Twilight moved in to throw a dagger at one timberwolves’s heart while jabbing another dagger right into the other timberwolves up close thus reducing them to a pile of twigs but not without releasing some howling to attract the other timberwolves nearby.

“Go! Go! Go!” The alicorn princess shouted to everyone as they all ran as fast as they can away from the scene.

The group heavily panted as they ran before coming to a cliff where Beshte is standing standing with Kion in tow. Twilight nearly fell but was quickly caught by the others. Before their eyes they could see a familiar building on the other side.

"The Castle of the Two Sisters!"

The castle was not broken, run down, and abandoned like before. But it was really more of a well-maintained castle. One you’d expect the one in Canterlot to look like. Only the classic gold and purple colors, this castle consisted of mainly blue and dark purple colors with Luna symbols around it. Just then they heard the sound of the timberwolves howling indicated they were getting close.

"Well, don't just stand here!" Spike exclaimed, being the first to run over the bridge that stood in replacement to the rope bridge it once had and hurried into the castle with the others following suit.

Fuli quickly rushed inside a second after Spike went inside while both Bunga and Ono followed after them a few seconds later.

Knowing that Beshte is too big and heavy to cross the bridge, Twilight moved to do the only thing she can do, she worked to carry him by lifting him with all of her upper body strength.

“Hang on!”

She grunted and pushed the hippo upwards as she flew herself across the bridge. It sure took a lot of effort and sweat to push herself into making the flight but she was able to do it after a solid minute of pushing. And in order to buy them time to get inside, without being attacking by the nearby timberwolves, Twilight tossed a smoke bomb across the bridge so that it would create foggy smoke that disoriented them just before they could reach the bridge. And once they were inside, they quickly closed the door, all panting in exhaustion.

Once inside they could see that the castle looked as if it was never destroyed. Recently created tapestries with very beautiful designs hanging on the walls, with torches sporting blue fire surrounded the place.

"This place looks a lot cleaner than I remember it." Spike commented.

"And familiar." Ono remarked in agreement as he used his keen sight to examine the place. “Wait a minute! I think I’ve seen this before. The markings.” He noticed said lunar markings on the tapestries. “These are Princess Luna’s marks! No! Nightmare Moon’s markings! Which means…”

“We’re living in the world where Nightmare Moon took over Equestria.” Twilight finished as she too figured it out at the exact same time.

The group pressed forward walking inside and up the staircases where they spotted a familiar white unicorn wearing a midnight blue outfit with her mane and tail styled into buns and currently rearranging the tapestries around the castle.

"Rarity?"

The unicorn turned to face the guests with an indifferent expression on her face, "The castle isn't open for viewings today. The tapestries all need changing. Again."

Spike ran up to the pony of his dreams, hoping she would recognize him. "Rarity, it's me!"

But this version of Rarity merely scoffed at him before turning away to continue her work. "I don't socialize with dragons. I don't know anypony who would." She coldly remarked, leaving poor Spike to whimper sadly feeling very hurt.

Twilight jumped over in an attempt to speak with her. "Rarity, you have to listen to me! The future of Equestria and the Pride Lands is at stake!"

"I don't know how you know my name, but I am far too busy to entertain some tourist's ridiculous fantasies." Rarity replied while ignoring them to make it clear she isn’t interested in seeing them and wants them to leave right now.

"We have to get back to the map so we can stop Starlight from changing the past, because every present we come to is worse than the last!"

"Time travel, you say?" A voice spoke from the throne at the very end of the room. The shadows covered the stranger's form but given the depictions on the tapestries, the group knew exactly who was sitting on that chair. As her body moved from the shadows, revealing her face, their hearts pounded in horror to match their widen eyes.

"Now that's something I would like to see." She remarked with an evil grin and sharp teeth sported as she said this.

“Me too!” Another familiar voice spoke as she appeared with her body covered in shadow with purple eyes appearing over their heads from behind. She chuckled as she emerged from the shadows to reveal herself as the pony that they have also encountered before that really got their hearts racing to the max while internally screaming inside.…

Midnight Sparkle!

Author's Note

Back in the Pride Lands, Scar's plan with Sumu has gone underway and with time at the essence, the race for the volcanic ash is underway. At the same time, the race to stop Starlight is still ongoing where in this part we get to see what happened to Kion with Zira in charge of the Pride Lands where things are worse than before.

This Kion is more hostile, cunning, manipulative, and aggressive like both Scar and Zira combined as he not only madder than before, he also has allied himself with Scar's followers in the name of taking down Zira himself. Not to mention willing to sink to new lows that only his granduncle himself would even dream of doing himself. It also helps that Zira herself physically and emotionally scarred the boy himself due to an alternate version of the Outsiders vs Pride Landers battle happening before his very eyes.

Not only that we see what has become of Twilight in these alternate versions where thankfully we only get a glimpse of but the same cannot be said for the pony who sides with another pony who has managed to escape from the moon after one thousand years...

Episode 42: The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion's Sting Part Four

Episode 42:

The Cutie Remark and the Scorpion’s Sting Part Four

Back in the current timeline, Kiburi and his float are stationed just nearby the entrance towards the border. The area itself has rocky surroundings that only people from up high can see what is going on. Hence a good spot for murder to be executed if they choose to commit it here. But right now they have a more important task in mind as they wait for their enemies to come on by in their quest to retrieve volcanic ash to save the Royal Family.

“Here they come.” Kiburi spoke upon seeing the Pony Guard (plus Kyoga and sans Twilight) appear from the horizon. “Now, remember Scar's plan.” He then reminded his fellow crocs before they appeared in front of the Pony Guard’s path when they finally came up to them. “Where do ya think you're goin', Lion Guard?”

“Outta the way, Kiburi!” Applejack ordered.

“Out of the way? You're in my territory, cub. And the crocodile way is to defend it.” He stated while standing his ground.

“Let us through, Kiburi. We don't have time for this right now.” Sunset irritably ordered now ready to lose her patience.

“We’re warning you!” Rainbow angrily stated ready to throw down quickly with her super speed if they don’t back off right now.

Even still Kiburi wasn’t backing down. “No one tells my float to move. Not without a fight. “Now!” He commanded while he and the others snapped and bared their jaws going in for the attack.

“Okay, I warned you!” Rainbow remarked before rolling on over using her super speed to plow the crocodiles aside like bowling pins while she flew by like she was a speeding bowling ball followed Sunset plowing by with the same fiery speed and ferociousness due to her burning anger.

When that happened, Applejack used her lasso to hogtie them all up and toss them aside with one mighty buck with her back legs to send them flying away. And once the crocs were neutralized the Pony Guard all made their way by.

“Later, croc-iddy crocs!” Pinkie cheerfully called out to them before regrouping with the others.

“I'm sure glad we got past those crocs!” Makini happily expressed in relief.

“Yeah, but they cost us time.” Sunset replied while starting to feel anxious herself. “We have to move faster.”

“Especially with a dying king in need of medicine!” Rainbow stated with emphasis already feeling the pressure of what’s at stake here.

“Don't worry Sunset. We won't let anything else slow us down.” Rarity assured with complete confidence.

Just then they find themselves stopped in their tracks when they encounter Reirei and her pack of jackals in their path.

“Well, well. Who do we have here?” Reirei commented with an eager grin.

“Uh, it's the Lion Guard, honey.” Her husband thoughtlessly replied like always.

“I know that, Goigoi.” She returned irritably.

“Then you also know to get out of our way. We're comin' through.” Kyoga stated.

“That’s right! Pinkie Pie Style. And now it’s party time!” Pinkie stated before pulling out her party cannon and quickly unleashed it’s powerful confetti on the jackals.

When the jackals ended up coughing from the confetti, Rarity used her karate skills to swiftly knock out the whole pack in a matter of seconds leaving them defeated with ease.

“Let's go!” Kyoga stated before leading the way forward.

It took a while, but they finally reached the Outlands Volcano, where everyone stopped and sat down briefly so they can catch their breath from all of the running and fighting they just did.

“We made it.” Pinkie said in between breaths.

“Now we just gotta go...up it.” Fluttershy then added in between breaths.

Just then they heard the cackling and snickering from Janja and his pack as they made themselves known while appearing from their hiding spots.

“You gotta deal with us first.” Janja stated while blocking their path.

“Are you kidding me?!” Rainbow stated with frustration.

“We don’t have time for this.” Applejack commented in complete annoyance.

“Agreed.” Rarity then turned to Fluttershy who looked a little unsure herself. “Fluttershy, darling. Would you please?”

Fluttershy softly sighed before flying up to the hyenas who once again look on amused…

...up until she employed her Stare upon them thus allowing the Pony Guard to get on by without a fight.

But Janja was not about to let them get by easily even her fierce eyes looking deep into her soul. “Oh no you don’t!” He shouted while running right beside Fluttershy and went straight after Kyoga and Sunset.

“No time for a fight! We just gotta get past 'em!” The former stated just when the hyena leader pinned her to the ground before being blasted aside by the latter.

Seeing sparked a gasp and spurred the normally timid pony into taking action. “Hey! Leave her alone!” She stated before body slamming the hyenas in the ribs thus knocking Janja aside in pain.

Cheezi moved to corner Rainbow while preparing to attempt to attack her once more while she was up against the rocky wall. “C'mere, pony!”

Rainbow however smiled confidently in response. “Forget it, Cheezi!” She then quickly flew up and out of the way when the hyena made the attempted charge causing him to slam face first into the rock he previously had her back against. “Oops. Sorry. Should have been quicker.”

Chungu then moved to try to attack Pinkie only for the latter to easily dodge his attempts with cartoon like ease.

“Here I am! Nope! Uh-uh! Sorry! Not quite cutting it! Still getting colder!”

Chungu growled before pursing the pony herself already irritated with her antics.

Elsewhere both Nne and Tano have both Makini cornered with her legs up against the nearby lava stream behind her.

“No! Go away! Shoo!” Makini shouted while swinging her staff at the two futilely.

Luckily for her, Applejack came to her rescue along with Rarity when the former used her lasso to ensnare the former and threw him in the path of the latter hyena when his attacker karate kicked him into his path.

“Thanks, Applejack! Rarity!”

Just then Rainbow Dash came flying by. “Makini, stick out your staff!”

“Okay!” Makini does as she was told but didn’t quite understand why. “How come?”

By doing so, she ended up causing Cheezi who was chasing Rainbow to trip over the rock in his path and ended up collecting both Chungu and Janja while doing so with the latter distracted once more by Fluttershy’s Stare.

“Oh! That's why!”

“Yep! Great job, Makini!” Rainbow congratulated.

With Janja and his clan defeated the path was now completely clear for the Pony Guard to pass through unchallenged.

“Now let's go get that ash!” Kyoga stated as they get by the hyenas who are all whimpering in pain.

“There sure are a lot of bad guys in the Outlands.” Makini remarked in astonishment with what they have encountered so far.

“And that’s why they live here, partner.” Applejack said.“Because these guys don’t respect the Circle of Life to deserve to live in the Pride Lands.”

“No kidding.” Fluttershy said in agreement while catching her breath from all of the fighting and flying. “Oh, I wish we could just teleport on over there and get out of there in a flash.”

Kyoga looked on sympathetically acknowledging that claim. “I wish it were that simple, but I need to have it fully charged so I can be fully prepared for what Scar has in store for us inside that volcano and so does Sunset.

"Without Twilight and Kion, this is all we got now.” The fiery colored unicorn herself commented only wishing they could do more.

“It’ll be okay.” Rarity assured the worried Pegasus who has that feeling in her knees that they are totally unprepared for Scar’s trap. “I know we're all tired. But we gotta keep going. It's almost sundown.” She directed her hoof on towards the sun where the sky around it is starting to turn purple with pink skies accompanying it.

“Rarity’s right! We got to keep moving!” Rainbow stated before they all continued forward. “Oh…and…” She then realized. “...there is also the fact that I still have your back, Fluttershy. No matter what happens.” She then said gently to her childhood friend.

“We're with you, Fluttershy.” Pinkie added as she tightly hugged the timid pony for a few seconds before they continued on their way up the volcano.

In short time the Pony Guard along with Makini finally made it to the top of the Volcano, who all briefly stopped to catch their breath again.

“We made it. Good job, everyone.” Kyoga congratulated.

“I see the volcanic ash! Down there!” Rainbow reported with his keen sight.

“Great! Let's get it and go!” Sunset said as she and Kyoga led everyone down towards the caldera.

The Pony Guard all proceeded to do so with the Mark of the Evil glowing brightly in the lava as Scar looks on from above unnoticed chuckling to himself, ready to execute the next part of his plan now that he has them right where he wants them.

Meanwhile back in the alternate universe the Lion Guard with Twilight leading them, they are currently meeting face to face with Princess Luna as Nightmare Moon.

Said mare laughed maniacally as her pony guards surrounded the team as said alicorns both flew down and stood before the Lion Guard led by Twilight Sparkle herself who’s eyes are looking in horror at the pony she once was back when under Scar’s servitude.

"Tell me how you came by this magic to travel through time!" The dark colored alicorn with an etheral blue mane demanded to which Twilight was hesitant to reply mainly due to being more distracted by seeing her dark mirror right in front of who smirked right back at her.

And when she didn't answer a familiar voice called her out to her. "The Princess asked you a question!" One of NightMare Moon's soldiers removed her helmet, revealing to be Rainbow Dash, now with an even shorter haircut, lowering her ears angrily as she ordered the younger alicorn to answer their leader. "And unless you wanna end up in the dungeon, you'll tell her what she wants to know!"

"Nopony in my kingdom but me should possess a magic powerful enough to change time."

"Your kingdom?" Bunga asked, right before receiving some 'shushes' from the others along with a slap to the back of the head courtesy of Fuli. Last thing they need is giving the dark mare another reason to have an ax to grind with them.

"Who else?" she asked threatening tone of voice as Midnight narrowed her eyes at the honey badger just knowing what he is going to say next.

"Um… Celestia, of course!"

The group, and the guards, all looked at one another in fear as Bunga had really struck a nerve there with his big mouth. However, instead of blowing her top, both NightMare Moon and Midnight Sparkle laughed together as the former simply pointed her hoof towards the glass window, where they saw the bright full moon with the image of an alicorn on it. The moon glowed brightly blue but had various colors depicting of white and pink, resembling Celestia's mane colors.

"My sister has been imprisoned in the moon for years! But it is no less a fate than they'd sentence me to! Isn’t that right, Midnight!"

“Absolutely! That mare definitely had it coming big time! Although…” She added as she circled around the now sweating alicorn who kept eyeing her. “...I do have to admit seeing myself before my current transformation is quite a sight to behold. And from the looks of you, I’d say you’re from another world, is that right? Right?!” Twilight looked aside out of fear and shame over what has become of her alternate self without the right guidance in life. “Twilight. Look at me.” Midnight moved to place a hoof on her chin to force her to look at her in her eyes. “Isn’t that right, you are from an alternate universe.”

“Yes.” She quietly admitted much to the taller pony’s satisfaction.

“Was that so hard? Shouldn’t be if you’ve been accustomed to murder which I feel you have at one point. Isn’t it that right?”

“Yes.”

“Murder?!” Bunga remarked like she is talking crazy. “What do you mean murder?! Twilight has never murdered anyone in her life before!”

“That’s right! And for all of her faults, Twilight would never stoop to doing something that low.” Beshte added in agreement while backing her up.

Twilight smiled normally and convincingly but close eyes could tell she looked pretty uncomfortable deep down.

“Oh you think?!” Midnight chuckled in amusement. “Well maybe you should look at your friend a little more closely because not all honest ponies tell the truth all the time.”

“What do you mean?!”

“And what are you implying?!”

Both Fuli and Ono asked and demanded a specific answer.

“You’ll have those answers soon enough assuming Twilight’s willing to tell you sooner or later.” She replied deciding it was best for them to ask her alternate self themselves. “But in the meantime, your friend has something she needs to give my mentor if she cares to live. Isn’t that right, Twilight?”

“Indeed she does.” Nightmare Moon agreed before getting things back on topic with her eyes locked on the shorter alicorn. "Now, reveal to me the source of this time magic!"

The group looked on as Twilight felt unsure whether to do so or not. On one hoof, they can’t give her the secrets to the spell, but on the other hoof they can’t risk getting killed without being erased from existence. And that was led to Twilight’s decision.

"…Alright."

"Twilight, no!" Ono exclaimed desperately.

"We have no other choice, Ono." She said before addressing to the princess, "We can take you to it, but you'll have to get past the timberwolves."

"I am the ruler of all of Equestria. Do you think I can't deal with timberwolves?"

"No. I know you can." She returned rather serious, already thinking the same thing both Nightmare and Midnight are thinking. The others managed to see where the alicorn friend is going with this. Given the alicorn’s experience being like both ponies surely she’ll know how to outsmart them.

Nightmare Moon's horn glowed brightly and a magical blue aura surrounded Spike's body, "And if you were thinking of trying to escape…" chains were levitated around Spike and also wrapped around the others, minus Twilight. Leaving Ono, Bunga, Fuli, Beshte, and even the weaken lion cub struggled to break free of their bounds while NightMare Moon and Midnight Sparkle both smiled.

"…it will be very unfortunate for your friends." Midnight finished before eyeing Kion specifically. “Especially your best friend.”

Twilight could only maintain her composure in the face of her evil self as the fate of their lives depend on it. She once became Midnight Sparkle out of her own anger and desire for vengeance. She was not about to succumb to it again.

Magical zaps and whimpering timberwolves was like music for the cold hearted and blooded ponies now ruling Equestria as they easily blasted everyone that tried to fight them. The only music in the dark and lifeless forest since there is no one else around to make noise.

While Nightmare Moon levitated the prisoners, Twilight walked side by side with NightMare Moon and Midnight Sparkle, with great composure and steeled nerves. If there was anything Twilight’s good at, she’s able to predict and react accordingly given her past experience as a villain and a mastermind, so it should level out the playing field.

Finally, they reached to where the map was. The exact same place where they had arrived, untouched and unharmed by the timberwolves themselves. The alicorn's eyes sparkled with delight.

"How does it work?" she asked.

"A pony from our time used this spell to travel back and change the past." Twilight explained once the princess now stood before the magical table.

"And now you will give this spell to me! With it, I will ensure that the Elements of Harmony are never found, and my reign lasts forever!

"But it won't."

"What?!" NightMare Moon clenched her teeth angrily at the pony’s response.

“Want to say that again?!” Midnight flared her horn threateningly at the pony’s face should she dare not to comply with their orders.

“It won’t because there are some things you can’t know about the time travel spell…” She then bravely looked at her evil counterpart in the eyes. “...and there is the fact that since you’re really me from the future you can’t kill me.”

“And why not?”

“Because then you would no longer exist and you would lose your only chance to prove Celestia of what you can really do. And you know that, don’t you?” Midnight glared at the pony fiercely ready to bring her down if needed as she paced around the area around them. “And you also know that deep down you truly wanted to become one of Celestia’s students but you couldn’t because you were given a test that wasn’t what you were expecting. A test that left you upset and devastated to the point you helped Nightmare Moon upon her return when she preyed upon you at your most vulnerable. Little did you, is that had you tried again, you would have been given another chance to get into her school and you soon would have become Celestia’s student.”

“And how exactly would you know this?!” She demanded with an arched eyebrow while curious of the pony’s circular movements with her horn with invisible blue sparks forming around it.

“Because another former student of hers ended up succumbing to her darkest desires. And because of it, it left open an opportunity for you to seize upon which you didn’t take because you were so furious and upset over what happened to even bother trying the test again and instead pursed revenge. And now because of you, she is now experiencing the fact that everypony and everything around her is destroyed and buried because of you two where you could have lived a live of peace and prosperity while having everything you ever wanted like me. Because in my world, my friends and I found the Elements, and used them to defeat NightMare Moon! And I will do everything in my power to bring that world back!”

Midnight while frowning and on the verge of striking her given with how accurate that assessment was, still maintained her composure by chuckling her big speech like it’s nothing new. “Big talk. You done?”

“No. Not yet.”

Without warning, she used her magic to shock the two alicorns with a massive bolt of lightning which sent them flying deep into the woods and then quickly sending the guard’s flying away with a powerful wave of magic. Without their magic keeping them prisoner, the Lion Guard was now free of Nightmare Moon and Midnight Sparkle’s control.

“Come on!” She commanded of everyone who wasted no time in running towards the table where Twilight had activated the spell and the vortex sucked them all in once more just when Nightmare Moon and Midnight Sparkle quickly arrived back on the scene.

“No!” The former shouted just when the Guard disappeared never to be seen again.

NightMare Moon and Midnight Sparkle's reign was still strong, but not for much longer.

The group once more fell onto hard ground, only this time they were ready and managed to perfectly land on their feet. Minus Spike, who still fell flat on Beshte’s back along with Kion who was already riding him due to his recovery from the scorpion’s sting. Upon looking up their surroundings, they see they are back in the Savannah timeline yet again.

“Phew! Talk about another close call!” Bunga remarked in relief.

“No kidding!” Ono said in agreement before trying to make out where they are standing. “Now where are we?”

“Well for starters, we are back in the other world where the Pride Lands is, but…” She looks around and sees they are facing a narrow passageway leading into someplace with a frozen body of water behind them. “...we are not anywhere near the Pride Lands.”

“But why are we brought here?” Fuli asked trying to make sense of what’s around them. “If we just happened to appear right nearby where Kion would be, why of all places would he be here if that’s the case?”

“I don’t know.” Twilight replied uncertain herself before heading on over towards the mountain pass in front of them. “I guess we’ll find out.”

Fuli looked on towards the pass which is covered in complete shadow and looks very mysterious and not in the good way. Personally she isn’t sure if going through there late at night is a good idea. “Are you sure? Because I got a really bad feeling in my fur that’s asking for trouble there.” As the others look on wondering why she thinks that she continued. “I mean think about! Seriously! Every time we arrive in this alternate timeline we end up getting nearly ambushed!”

“Like with Zira twice along with Kion that one time back when Zira was in charge?” Bunga asked.

“Yeah!”

“Now that you mention it, I’m now beginning to see the trend here.” Ono said now unsure about wanting to go down that path. He then noticed a rock that had painting markings similar to Rafiki’s paintings in the Lair of the Lion Guard from nearby.

“See something Ono?” Twilight asked as he moved to fly on over there.

“Yes.” He answered as everyone else joins in front of what he is looking at. “It looks like a painting that shows us what we are seeing. See?” Everyone sees the painting is able to tell that it looks exactly like the mountain pass right in front of them.

“Poa! What is it?” Beshte asked after seeing the painting itself.

“It looks like some kind of land marker that shows us what to expect and I think it is telling us what’s inside that pass ahead of us.

“Like what?” Bunga curiously asked.

“I don’t know.” Ono replied just when Twilight worked her magic to make the painting come to life featuring said pass is the way to go to get by the mountains.

“Well, it is definitely like the paintings back at Pride Rock.” Twilight deduced. “And whatever this is it is definitely telling us that this is the way to go towards whatever is beyond that pass. So…” She moved to head on over there. “...you can all wait here while I check it out.”

“But Twilight…” Fuli quickly moved to intercept her before she could head on over there. “...I really think we shouldn’t. We don’t know what’s on the other side of that mountain and we might be able to see better when it’s brighter.”

Twilight sighed as she found herself mentally agreeing with what the cheetah is saying. As tempting as it is to find out what happened to Kion in this timeline, they are running thin on time as Starlight plans to keep them here as long as possible until after sundown. “You’re right. Not to mention of what’s really at stake back home.” She gestures everyone to huddle up so they can get back to Cloudsdale. “Come on.”

Everyone all quickly moved to do so as Twilight worked her magic…

...just when a predator emerged from the shadows of the past and nearly clawed and sunk his teeth into the group of friends forcing them to split apart.

“Holy…”

“Whoa!”

Suddenly startled the Guard all scattered in separate directions to avoid this leopard with green eyes that had suddenly appeared and nearly killed them without warning followed by an army of leopards coming after each and every one of them.

Fuli ran at top speed as she managed to shake the leopard on her tail by tricking him into crashing into one of the nearby rocks after tripping up in the deep snow. Ono was able to hold his own by repeatedly pecking at the leopard constantly trying in vain to reach at him with his claws.

The leopard leader himself then ran ahead pursing Ono who thankfully managed to fly high enough to ensure that he secured each and every one of his tail feathers like he did before. Then he decided to pursue Twilight who quickly used her magic to teleport away before he could get near her. He thought about pursing Bunga but he was quick to utilize a stink bomb while using the gassy smoke as cover for his escape by running across the frozen lake.

With all options having already fled, he then decided to think big by targeting Beshte who had the still resting and healing Kion on his back. With a dark smile and his teeth bared ready to sink his teeth into them as he made a mighty charge towards him.

Beshte could only look on ahead while briefly looking back as the leopard quickly gained on him in a matter of seconds. But just before his teeth could reach the slow hippo…

ZAP!

Came from Twilight’s horn as she sent the leopard flying aside into the nearby snow while allowing Beshte to flee and carry Kion to safety.

Enraged, the leopard moved to charge and attack her, only for the alicorn to swiftly block and counter each and every one of his attacks without breaking a sweat. Then she swiftly swung the momentum he was using right back against him by firing off swift punches and kicks her hooves to his body before following it up with a powerful punch that sent the leopard backwards into the nearby rocks.

Said rocks shattered as the leopard groaned to pick himself up on his feet just when Twilight circled around him with a fair and safe distance. But just before anything else can happen she found herself knocked to the ground by somebody swiftly knocking into her.

The alicorn quickly hoisted up a barrier spell before flipping around to fire a beam of magic right back at the source. She managed to connect with her attack and knocked her attacker away before leaping up in flight to avoid a surprise attack by a giant reptile trying to chomp his large teeth at her. In response, she quickly performed a powerful drop kick on the reptile’s head who reeled back and dropped down to the ground in pain just an army of leopards moved to surround the team when they all came to her aid. Just then they heard a commanding voice shout out to the ones that tried to attack them.

“Enough!”

The crowd dispersed to see that their leader ordering them to stand down (for now) is none other than the lion they’d least expect to see at these very circumstances. Kion.

“Stand down, now!”

The leopards, along with the reptile follower all did as they were told as their apparent leader moved to approach the Lion Guard himself with their Pony Guard leader standing in front of them in order to protect them.

“Well?!” Kion looked intensely at the alicorn expecting a good answer for causing a commotion at the entrance to the land he is now in control over. “You have a good explanation of why you and your friends who look a lot like friends I once had in causing a disturbance here at the Tree of Life?!”

“Tree of Life?!”

“Yes, but that still doesn’t answer my question, you strange horse!”

“Excuse me?!” Twilight returned with an offended look before answering the hostile lion’s demands. “For starters, I’m an alicorn pony. And second and most importantly, we didn’t start this fight, your followers did!”

Kion scoffed in response. “That’s what they all say.” He moved to circle around the crew just looking on in disbelief at the familiar faces who are all dead to him here in this timeline. “Along with bringing to life my former friends back from the dead.”

“Former friends?!”

“Dead?!” Both Ono and Bunga asked now being their turn to feel offended.

“Um, Ono, Bunga…” Fuli whispered to the two. “...not in this timeline since without the Rainboom you two never existed.”

“Oh, right.”

“Never mind us.”

“Keep talking like that, and we’ll see how much I mind.” Kion warned while being warded off by Twilight. “And you need to get out of my way before I decide what I really want to do to you all!”

Twilight however refused to budge. “That’s enough Kion! Now what is going on here?!”

“And why are all of those hostile animals all backing you up?!” Fuli added also wanting to know the great big deal here while adding to the disgruntled group. “Yes, I said animals.”

“You dare question our king?!”

“Along with daring to look at him in the eyes and tell him how it is?!”

Both the reptile and snow leopard angrily growled right in Fuli and Twilight’s faces.

“If I were you, I’d quitting talking like that and do we he says or else I will personally see to it that you are the main course of tonight’s dinner, pony!” The lead leopard, Makucha snarled with his threatening scowl right in the pony’s face.

“And if I were you, I think you need to cool it and stand down like your king commands you to do!” Fuli returned with a swift pounce and knock him down onto the ground and away from her friend while using her back legs to strike both the snow leopard and Komodo dragon right in the neck at the exact same time they tried to leap at her. “Because he makes the call of whether you are allowed to continue attacking us or not.”

“And it seems that I might have to do it myself with the way you are attacked two of my followers like that.” Kion returned looking very furious given that he deeply cares for them never mind why Fuli and Twilight reacted the way they did.

“Kion.” Twilight spoke calmly in an effort to reason with the hostile lion. “They attacked us first, therefore we had the right to defend ourselves by reacting the way we just did.”

“And it’s called self-defense. Something that you would strongly encourage if you were in our paw prints right now.” Fuli firmly added.

Kion growled in response as he mentally can’t believe what he is dealing with. To him, random strangers who suddenly come marching up to the gates of the kingdom he now has under control and have the balls to give him orders along with valid reason why he can’t eviscerate them on the spot.

“All right, fine!” He relented while gesturing for the other leopards to stand down completely. “So before I decide how to deal with you all, how did you all end here and why are you all really here?!”

“Wow! That kind of guy who really wants answers, sheesh!” Kion returned a fierce look in the honey badger’s eyes. “I mean we’re going to answer whatever questions you have! Really! It’s just why do you have to be so seriously aggressive over guarding whatever this place is?”

Kion only groaned irritably in response as he led the way on over towards the mountain pathway. "It’s the Tree of Life. And what’s on the other side of this mountain you’ll see why I’m very protective of it."

“Okay.” Ono accepted that response for now. “And in answer to your questions well, we just happened to appear here magically, figuratively speaking.”

“And what do you mean, figuratively?!” Kion asked with an arched eyebrow to show his confusion and disbelief.

“Would you believe us if we told you that we actually mean we literally just magically appear here?” Bunga replied with a nervous smile with a paw rubbing the back on his neck.

Kion looked on suspiciously. “No and yes. It would make sense since it’s pretty clear you’re all not from here are you?” The group all shook their heads in response to assure him of that. “But I have a really hard time believing that’s the case.”

“But you’re giving us the benefit of the doubt?” Fuli pointed out.

“Because I did have something magical happen to me once.”

“The Roar?”

“Yes. And how would you know that?”

“Because…” Fuli calmly said before Kion could turn angry once again. “...where we come from we’re from we are great friends protecting another kingdom similar to what you are doing.” Kion looked aside feeling deeply ashamed the more and more she listens to her. “And that’s something you would do if you were the king, right?”

“Yeah.”

But the look on his body language pretty much tells her along with everyone else that might not be the case with this Kion they’re dealing with.

“You’re lying.”

Kion didn’t respond that time not even in anger as they all reached the end of the pathway leading up to the other side of the mountain as they see a sight that none of the Guard would ever expect to see.

Along the path there were bare bones of various dead animals. Some from animals they know and some from animals they don’t even recognize. No words could describe it. Not even the whole land in front of them as it is something that only one other individual would allow to happen before their eyes. The whole land was nothing up dried up grass, along with nearby watering holes all dried up, along with all of the trees in the vicinity.

Clearly to the Lion Guard along with Twilight something really bad had happened and that Kion was the unwitting instigator of tragedy. What was supposed to be a glorious and wonderful land for other animals to enjoy under another benevolent ruler’s paws has turned into something that Scar would be content with if he were in charge.

“Hapana.” Ono gasped along with Beshte and Twilight.

“What is this place?!”

“Kion! What happened?!”

Kion remained silent for a few seconds. He remained unsure and conflicted of whether to tell these strangers the truth out of fear that he’ll be ruined. But then again, his reputation is already in the gutter given with what he allowed to become of this land. So maybe just maybe telling someone when he is at his lowest point even while scared and angry might get them to back off.

“Me is what happened.” Kion still looked on ahead while not making eye contact with the others as he recalled the memories leading up to this starting with the memory of him running away from home. “I was living out on my own when I left the Pride Lands. By then I had already lost Ono and Bunga due to my failures as a leader of the Lion Guard that never came to be. Then I heard stories about this great land where travelers and Outsiders like myself can go and get healed while living a life of no worries and responsibilities. When I finally got there I was hoping for a warm and inviting welcome bit instead I got attacked by this group of lions that immediately treated me like an enemy and kicked me out before he could even get a look at the place. It was like once one lion was quick to ambush me and I ended up injuring him in self-defense the rest is history. Knowing that I was clearly outmatched I was left no choice but to leave without getting the chance to explain myself thanks to the lioness in charge. Just when I was about ready to cut my losses and head somewhere else to who knows where, I was approached by a group of animals I’ve come across along the way. Makucha, Chuluun, Oro, and Mama Binturong.” He gestured to three out of four of the names and allies that came to him that day.

“Wait!” Bunga raised his paws out after noticing the math is off. “Mama Binturong? Who’s she?”

“Right here.” Said individual happens to be a large binturong appearing right behind them. “And as my name could tell you understand why my name is Mama Binturong. And it was because of me that Kion along with the rest of his crew were able to take over this kingdom in the first place.”

“How?!”

“And what did you do?!”

Both Ono and Bunga angrily asked already figuring out she played a big role in this alongside Makucha.

“Simple. I played to this Night Pride’s weakness and got them to take me in as a weak and helpless animal like everyone living there.” She responded with such smug satisfaction she didn’t regret ever doing it.

“Kion? Is this true?” Beshte asked the lion who couldn’t even deny that as smug as she is she is indeed telling the truth.

“At this point, I wish she was.” Kion could only say before continuing while recalling more memories of what led up to this moment. “After trying to reason then fight our way by didn’t work after a few times, Mama Binturong came over and meet with us. Since she’s heard about the Tree of Life along with all the plants it has offer, especially Tuliza, she was more than happy to help us out. Since the place takes in the weak and helpless it would provide us a way to keep the Night Pride occupied while we caught them by surprise. And it was only because of me that the plan was successful given that I was watching her every movement unnoticed and I acted fast.” As he recalled his fight with the Night Pride leader he looked on pained as he recalled exactly what he did when he fought her. “And without hesitation I decided to silence her before she could alert her comrades...permanently.”

Twilight gasped as the realization dawns on her immediately. “You killed her while the others killed the other lions?!”

“Yes. I did.” While the act itself was done without hesitation, it wasn’t done without regrets. “And with no other leaders around to take over it was with a heavy heart that I assumed the throne especially when the lion who was queen here had died of old age by the time we found her.” Unlike his grand-uncle, his tone definitely implied he feels remorse over what he did to obtain the throne along with seeing the weak and disappointed expression on her face when she passed away. “And I thought to myself I could do my best to rule this kingdom. Only while I was trying to reach out to the other animals and herds that used to live here, my followers had other plans.” He then glared at said leopard, snow leopard, and Komodo dragon for their role in the matter. “While my back was turned they went ahead and decided to make meals of out of the many animals they could get their claws and teeth on. And they tried to cover it up by claiming they ran off and attacked them first.”

“Well what can we say.” Makucha chuckled like it’s no big deal. “Leopards got to eat too. And with a kingdom filled with delicious meals that your taste buds right in front of you how could we pass it up for the sake of properly ruling this place.”

“That’s right! And considering how hungry we are now with no food, no water around we were doing ourselves and everyone else a favor.”

“Yeah! And you have the nerve to call yourself a good king? If anything I should be in charge here not you, cub!”

Makucha however stepped in between the lion and Komodo dragon as he begged to differ that. “Uh, no it should be me!”

“No! Me!” Chuluun moved to get in the mix as the three growled and scowled at one another ready to rip each other apart.

“HEY!” The argument was quickly broken up when Kion growled fiercely at the three ready to attack them if they keep this up. “Break it up, now!”

“Oh yeah?” Ora looked ready to chomp his large teeth at the young lion. “You going to make us?”

“Yes I am!”

“Oh yeah?” To prove his point to show he isn’t intimidated by his boss, moved to chomp his teeth right at him where the lion himself narrowly missed out on a dose of venom.

Kion himself ended up stumbling as the komodo dragon moved to repeat the process while constantly advancing on him until he ended up tripping up on a nearby rock that caused him to fall hard onto the ground.

Oro smirked as he relished in a grand opportunity to kill what he views is this terrible leader with one huge bite from his teeth…

...just when Beshte quickly rushed over and body-slammed the venomous reptile aside so hard that he ended up tumbling down the nearby hill and ended up breaking a leg from the fall.

Already angered, both Makucha and Chuluun moved to attack Beshte only for Fuli to quickly counter their attempted attack by knocking them off of their paws in a swift manner. Followed by Bunga leaping on and off of their heads like he is crossing a river with stepping stones and Ono firing his beak right at the snow leopard until she followed suit with a downhill tumble.

And last but not least Makucha along with Mama Bintroung were left while backed up on the edge by Twilight who is not having any justifications for trying to off Kion.

“Now come on, pretty pony.” Mama Bintroung pleaded. “This is all just a big misunderstanding.”

“No, it’s not.” Twilight firmly replied not showing any mercy to her nor Makucha. “We saw what we saw and you all clearly don’t have any respect for someone who is trying to prove his worth as a good leader.”

“But you saw what has happened. You heard what you’ve been told. So why side with this terrible excuse of a leader?” Makucha asked failing to comprehend why she and the others are defending him.

“Because despite his terrible temper at least he was trying to be a good leader. While he was trying to get along with the animals who used to live him, none of you ever listened to him when he tried to get you to follow his lead. Instead of helping him you instead took advantage of him. You all had no qualms of destroying this land even if that means satisfying your own greed to do so. You all brought this on yourselves, and now it is time for you all to go.”

Before they could do anything about Twilight worked up her magic in forming a tornado powerful enough to suck every bad guy up inside it and sent them riding away from the very kingdom they laid devastation to. All while Kion watches on in astonishment with everything that had happened and every word Twilight had just said about him while telling Makucha and his allies off.

“You okay?” Twilight asked as he helped the lion up to his paws.

“I am now. Thanks to you and your friends saving me.” Kion honestly replied but couldn’t help but wonder why this is happening. “But why? Why after everything I did here would you all still help me?”

“Because deep down you’re not a bad lion.” Twilight honestly and firmly answered. She then smiled as she assured him of that. “You were just scared inside and consumed with anger that you weren’t seeing things clearly.”

“And believe it or not, you were trying really hard to make things right.” Fuli added in agreement. “You were just backed by others who were only it in for themselves.”

“But I still sided with the bad guys and allowed them to take over this place. I failed to keep them under control.”

“But they also played with your emotions into thinking they had your best interest.” Twilight counter replied. “It’s bound to happen to anyone. Even me.”

“You?”

“Yes. And back where we are from we are great friends and teammates leading others that have our backs in protecting kingdoms from great evil and others who don’t respect the very balance that keeps this land flourished with plants and life around it. Not just one but two kingdoms, all while working together, no matter how hard it gets, we always have each other’s backs. And at one point I helped achieve that by siding with the enemy who helps to be your own grand uncle Scar. To this very day I’m still fighting to keep him from ruining that balance.” Kion looked on in awe immediately seeing Twilight as someone he can see eye to eye with it considering how effectively manipulative the lion really is.

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“I know.”

“Anything I can do to help keep that from happening?”

“With you not much there, but you do right now here.” Kion looked on confused until she continued with where she is going with this. “Right now you have the opportunity to make things right by showing future subjects of how the one true king like you cares for his subjects.”

"But how?”

“Well for starters since there is no food and water here for now…” Fuli chimed in. “...you’re going to have to leave this place as difficult as it may be for you and whoever used to live here since the damage is pretty much done at this point.”

“Then you go out there and find herds of animals you need your leadership but most importantly your friendship as of course you’ll definitely need a new Lion Guard to back you up in restoring this kingdom to it’s former glory.” Twilight added.

“But my dad said it has to be all lions.”

“Never mind what your dad said. What’s really important is what you believe is right. Who else you really think deserves to be a part of the team that protects your new kingdom. Someone that’s really fast, strong, brave, and with the Keenest of Sight. Like them.” She gestured to said Lion Guard members who fit the bill to the T as they all smile proudly and confidently to showcase that he has what it takes to do so on his going forward. “And if you’re worried about turning out to be like Scar, don’t be afraid, Kion. Trust your instincts. The Roar will be there for you when you need it. Until the Pride Lands end.”

“The Pride Lands?!” Kion’s mind was now flowing with concern and worry once those words flowed through his mind. “I forgot all about that place! It’s been so long! I hope it’s not too late!”

“If you hurry back home now, you might still be able to stop Scar before he incinerates whoever is trying to retrieve ash from the Outlands Volcano!” Bunga stated before quickly adding. “Which shouldn’t have already happened by now.”

“Oh, that I will...um…”

“Bunga!”

“Bunga, right.” But while briefly looking back at the defeated former followers trying to make their way back inside the Tree of Life kingdom now racing their way across the frozen lake, he had an idea. “But first…”

By locking eyes on his enemies, the clouds behind him grew darker and grayer as Kion closed his eyes and then unleashed the Roar of the Elders on them for the very first time in a long time. The Roar itself is as powerful as it was when he last used maybe even stronger than before as he managed to create a crack so large and deep the ice gave way and caused the three along with the rest of Makucha’s pack to all fall into the ice cold water underneath it when it gave way. Said enemies ended up having to cling up onto the ledge of the nearby fractured ice pieces in order to avoid suffering complete hypothermia. And when that happened, they all decided to immediately retreat and run far and fast as their bodies in their current state can carry them away from the Tree of Life for good.

After looking on and taking a moment to smile with pride for driving away the animals that caused more trouble than good, he then set forward to resolve restoring the peace and prosperity of the two kingdoms.

“Best of luck, Kion.”

“And I wish the best of luck to you too, Twilight.”

Once Kion was already running off and far ahead with his restored spirit guiding him back, Twilight worked her magic as she got the vortex to open up once more where she and the rest of the Lion Guard all got suck upwards inside of it before it closed up once again.

The vortex opened once more, allowing the Lion Guard to land on their respected clouds, and Twilight quickly spotted Starlight coming at her. With a zap from her horn, she froze the unicorn in the same crystal prison she had trapped her and her friends in previously.

"Now more than ever I know how important it is to stop you!"

But even from her crystal clear prison, Starlight's horn was able to blast herself free as she levitated herself upwards over the cracked pieces of crystal, her mane raising upwards like a flame as she did, smiling ever so arrogantly and maniacally at the princess.

"Well, good luck!"

And so, it began once again. The two ponies battled it out in a race against time to change the future the way they saw fit. Only, while Twilight was doing it for her friends, Starlight was doing it for herself.

Again and again, time shifted back and forth with the group. Twilight did her very best to stop Starlight from keeping the Rainboom from happening, but the unicorn managed to stay one step ahead of her. At one point, she simply tripped Rainbow Dash during the race which sent the group to a future where Tirek had won and was destroying Equestria. In the Pride Lands, they witnessed hyenas that helped Scar to power running amok, destroying everything in their path without said lion around to oversee it.

Next, Twilight tried to freeze Starlight, only to accidentally freeze Rainbow Dash when the unicorn stepped back to evade it. She clapped humorously at her attempt, which in turn sent the group to a future where they landed on several fluffy toys and witnessed Discord chasing Luna and Celestia, all wearing clown outfits, but a happy Discord wearing a king's crown and cape while holding a scepter and chasing them on a unicycle. In the Pride Lands, it is now being overrun with reptiles including Ushari, the skinks, Kenge, and Sumu all marking their territory all across the kingdom….

Something that nobody in the group not even Bunga understood that one.

Back in the past, before they could even do anything, Starlight used her magic to make Fluttershy fly through the obstacle coarse, which once again sent the group back to the future, where they saw the Flim Flam brothers of all ponies destroying all the trees of the land with a bulldozer, and finally the Pride Lands being taken over by an evil Kovu who leads the Outsiders out on a hunt on their newly conquered kingdom, looking as fierce and hungry as Scar did,, alongside his evil siblings.

"Just how?!" Fuli exclaimed with her patience now running thin. "How does that pony always one step ahead of us!"

“Probably because she had Scar’s guidance.” Bunga suggested earning him a raised brow from the cheetah because it was a rhetorical question. “I mean she is doing it under his instruction and orders. Keep us fighting here either until she gets a satisfying future to her and Scar’s liking or up until she runs out the clock so that the Royal Family doesn’t make it.”

“Bunga that’s...one of the smartest theories you’ve ever said.” Ono then came to admit himself. “Either way Scar wins.”

“Okay, great!” She sarcastically and angrily commented. “And just how can ‘we’ win?! Show Starlight exactly what she is doing to all of Equestria and the Pride Lands by eliminating the Sonic Rainboom all together?!” Twilight looked on like she is actually onto something. “You know I’m kidding right, Twilight? Twilight?!”

Twilight smiled genuinely in response. “Precisely!”

Hearing that reply caught most of the others by surprise unsure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing.

“Huh?”

“What?”

“I was kidding!”

“I know.”

“But why?”

“Because I’m thinking maybe we do need to show her what she is really doing to both kingdoms. All of Equestria and the Pride Lands.”

“And what do you think that will accomplish with Starlight?” Ono asked.

“That Starlight will see what damage she is really doing in pursuit of seeking revenge against us.” Twilight answered before moving to make sense of it. “I know this doesn’t make sense but I have a real gut feeling that we should at least try it because I don’t see a pony who’s all bad inside her heart.”

“I think I get.” Beshte replied being the first to make sense of it. “Because I don’t any of the bad guys were truly happy when they finally got what they wanted by pursing revenge.”

“They sure weren’t.” Bunga agreed.

“No kidding.” Fuli spoke up as she thought more and more about the never ending cycle and how nobody ends up winning because of it. “Now that I think about it, I can now see where you are coming from.”

“But will it actually work with Starlight?” Ono asked still feeling doubtful that Starlight will listen to reason.

“Only one way to find out.” Twilight replied to assert it doesn’t hurt to try especially when trying to handle it by force has eaten up enough time by now before getting the vortex to open and close up once again so they can go back to Cloudsdale again.

Once the vortex led the group once more back to the past again, where the Lion Guard rested on clouds and Twilight moved to approach the unicorn waiting for her with Spike riding on the former’s back.

"Up for another race-ending fight, Twilight?" Starlight remarked in a taunting manner while standing on a cloud as the alicorn herself moved to act on her new approach.

"No. You were right. I can't stop you." Starlight quickly fired off another attack at the alicorn, only for it to be deflected by one of her force fields. "But you can't stop me from trying, and we could be stuck doing this for all eternity!"

"If that's what it takes to keep you and your friends from getting your cutie mark connection, then I'm game!" Starlight looked on maliciously as she sent another blast at Twilight, who once again effortlessly deflected it with her force field before moving to reason with her. Much like she did with Kion from all three alternate timelines.

"What you're doing goes way beyond cutie marks!" She levitated a cloud, forming a small hill with a house at the end and created a small snowball which grew and grew as it slid down and crashed into the house, destroying it. "Everything we do here in the past, even the smallest change, can snowball into an avalanche of trouble for the future!"

Starlight Glimmer only rolled her eyes as she zapped the cloud away, "Oh, next I suppose you'll tell me that "the fate of all of Equestria hangs in the balance"!"

"It does!"

"Spare me your overblown ego! No group of friends, not even Princess Twilight's, is that important!"

With another zap from her horn, Starlight blasted Rainbow Dash off course, which caused her the race, and triggered the spell once more. Just as the group was being sucked into the portal once more, Twilight had another say in the matter.

"I don't know how important other ponies' friendships are to the future, but I can show you what the world is like without mine!"

Lunging herself forward, Twilight grabbed hold of Starlight Glimmer just in time in order to ensure that the vortex would to suck her along with everyone else for the ride.

In a blinding flash of white Starlight landed on the ground, shoving Twilight Sparkle off of her before getting ready to fight again. Only, she realized where they had landed. The wind was blowing strongly, making her mane and tail move in sync with the wind currents, and realized there wasn't any sunlight, plant life, or anything else around them. From the lifeless emptiness, to the little color.

"Where are we?!" She demanded to know.

"The future." Twilight replied, her hair flapping against the harsh winds while placing a hoof on the map, "Or rather, the present."

"But there's nothing here!"

"I wish I could say I was surprised. But what you see around you is the truth within the eye of the beholder. All of this where nothing and nobody is around and living in this world in both where the Pride Lands resides and all of Equestria. All in the name of pursing revenge and destroying the peace and harmony along with the Circle of Life."

Fuli then moved to speak next. "And it is all traced to by stopping the girls from getting their Cutie Mark bond which resulted in them never meeting Kion…” She gestured to the weaken lion resting on Beshte’s back. “...who never created the Lion Guard nor bonded with our friends in the Equestrian world. Every world both here and there we come back to is worse than the last. You may not think our friendship with Kion and the Pony Guard are important to Equestria, or to us, but they are."

Starlight hesitated before firing back an angry retort. "I don't believe you!"

"Come on, Starlight, look around!" Ono turned his head to direct everyone’s eyes at the barren wasteland before them.

"Everything in the past affects the future, even the tiniest act." Twilight added. "And what you're doing leads here."

Upon seeing this had Starlight truly seeing this is the end result of her tampering with the events so that the bond never happened. Deep down this isn’t want she envisioned out of achieving victory. All she wanted was to get back at Twilight and Kion along with regaining her village in return for helping Scar conquer both worlds, not destroy to them. In her mind, she is really having a hard time understanding of how what’s happening now is actually happening. Not once did the true consequences sink in of what little there was to be gained out of it and how very much there is to be lost. But even still she vehemently refused to believe that what she is being told and shown is true.

"I know I can't stop you, but I thought showing you this might change your mind."

"Change my mind?" Starlight angrily yelled back at the alicorn. "You don't know anything about me! I was perfectly happy before you and your friends ruined what I built!"

"I don't know what happened that led you to make your village without cutie marks, and I'm sorry my friends and I had to take it away." the princess replied sincerely, not showing any signs of anger or hatred towards the pony.

This only further infuriated Starlight even more. Instead of being faced with ongoing fighting and hatred just like Scar would have wanted, she is being shown mercy and compassion.

"You want to know what happened to me?! I'll show you!"

Starlight levitated her body upwards, hovering over the map before zapping it with her time travel spell. The map itself glowed once she hit a specific spot and the group was sucked into the map alongside Starlight Glimmer.

The group arrived in a little village with lovely houses and happy ponies all around in the broad daylight with brightness and color to match the setting.

"Where are we?" Twilight asked Starlight, who narrowed her eyes.

"That map of yours is connected to every part of Equestria, and this part is my home." Said with 'my home' emphasized negatively on her part. She then led the group to one house in particular.

Inside, they spotted a pair of little unicorns. One was a young filly and another a young colt. The colt had an orange colored coat, with red-brown hair styled into a mow-hawk, and had bright blue eyes which smiling and glimmered equally brightly at his fellow unicorn friend. Who likewise clapped happily when he levitated a book to the very top of a stack of books on the table and both had blank flanks.

“Aw!” Bunga smiled upon spotting the unicorn he recognized, “That little filly with the pink coat looks a lot like you, Starlight.”

“That’s because that little filly is me.”

“But then how and why would a sweet and cuddly pony like you become a crazy control freak like Twilight…” Everyone all shot looks at him for that comment. “...formerly. And who’s the other pony you were playing with back then?”

"His name was Sunburst." Starlight replied, her voice softening as she explained her past. "He and I did everything together. In fact, I don't remember us ever being apart." Her voice shifted back to her normal harsh and vengeful tone. "Until today."

The group watched as Young Starlight struggled and panting to levitate one book from the pile, before giving up.

"Come on, Starlight! Give it another try!" Young Sunburst insisted.

"I don't know, I'm not as good as you are." The young filly replied back with a sweet and innocent tone that heavily contrasts her future self.

"Don't sell yourself short. You're the smarted unicorn I know, don't ever forget that, okay?"

That alone shows how much Sunburst truly was a good friend. He was the one who gave Starlight her confidence to begin with. Just by witnessing this they could all see just how much he really meant to her. In a lot of ways, the Lion Guard could relate to her.

"Come on, we're not stopping until you give it one more try!"

"You really think I can do this?" Starlight asked with red cheeks.

"I have no doubt!"

Present day Starlight smiled softly at the memory. Back then Sunburst was the only and true friend she ever had, there was hardly any other pony like him in the village. And what made him so special was the fact that he understood her better than anypony else.

With her tongue sticking out to the side of her mouth, and her determined gaze on the one book she was struggling to move earlier, she used her horn to levitate it without tumbling the pile. At first...before the pile moved to tumble five seconds after it had happened. It wobbled and moved to collapse right on top of her who can only shield her eyes, to brace herself for the impact…which never came.

And that’s because Sunburst managed to come to her rescue before the pile could squash her, each one glowing in his sunny bright aura which matched the one coming form his horn. His body began to rise and so did the books. By saving his best friend, something was triggered within Sunburst. His entire body began to glow while the books all circled around him, spiraling rapidly before being placed perfectly on the shelves one by one. Sunburst looked exhausted as he landed, his body glow slowly diminishing before feeling something on his flank...

His very own cutie mark! Right before their eyes, a cutie mark depicting a bright shimmering light with stars around it appeared on his flank. He could not believe his eyes, and neither could Starlight.

"Sunburst! You got your cutie mark!"

"I--I don't believe it!" He leaped around and whinnied excitedly. "Starlight, can you believe it? Oh, wait! Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, thanks to you."

Just then the door’s busted open and Sunburst's parents walked inside. Initially they came wondering what the commotion was all about before locking eyes on their son’s recently acquired cutie mark.

Seeing that sparked so much pride and joy, they wasted no time in whisking their son away and show every pony in town of what had just happened inside their home. The ponies outside all cheered happily for the young colt, lifting him up and celebrating around town…all the while leaving Starlight Glimmer alone to watch. In all the excitement they had forgotten about her.

"At first, I was happy for him." Starlight explained as the scene unfolded before their eyes, "But as the years passed, Sunburst and I grew farther and farther apart. He spent less time with me and more time with the other ponies who had their cutie marks, and when that wasn’t the case he would be at home studying."

During said time frame, Starlight found herself playing by herself since she never found another friend in town who shared the same special bond the way Sunburst did all while he continued making new friends, all with cutie marks of their own. Little did she know even to this very day was that Sunburst never truly forgot her having wished every single day that he could spend time with her like before, but the day never came due to what happened along with the fact Starlight has been living a life of isolation ever since.

Then the day came where Sunburst would leave having just departed town just when Starlight arrived seconds too late before they could have one last conversation together. Leaving the poor pony in tearful heartbreak that her last chance just slipped right out of her hooves.

"And just like that, my friend was gone. His family recognized his magical talent and sent him off to Canterlot. I never saw him again."

Bunga bawled his eyes like a baby to the point gushers of water came from his eyes like Pinkie would do if she were here to listen to this. “that is Un-Bunga-veilably sad!" During his blubbering, his tears ended up soaking Fuli who shook his fur dry clean before fetching herself a nearby umbrella to shield herself from the waterworks the honey badger’s producing.

"But, why didn't you see him again?" Beshte asked.

"Because of his cutie mark!" Starlight's sadness faded, turning right back into anger once again. But even so, tears still came out of her eyes. "He got his, and I didn't! He moved on, and I didn't! I stayed here and never made another friend because I was too afraid another cutie mark would take them away, too!"

"That's ridiculous." Twilight commented. "A cutie mark can't take your friends away!"

Starlight wiped away her tears, "Not everypony's lucky enough to get her cutie mark at the same time as her friends!" Using her magic, she activated the vortex once more and took herself and the rest of the group with her back to the day the Rainboom happened, where everyone landed on the clouds yet again.

"You don't know what it's like to lose a friend because of a cutie mark. But once I stop the rainboom, you will!" Starlight's magic levitated the scroll from Twilight's satchel, holding it in front of everyone, with her eyes wide and her irises shrinking, her insanity has reached it’s peek.

"And when I destroy this scroll, there will be no way for you to change it!"

The team watched in horror as the paper was slowly being torn apart by the enraged unicorn. Without the scroll, nothing could set things right. Everyoe would be all doomed to endure and live through with these horrible futures fate has in store. Someway, somehow, they had to stop Starlight from going through with this.

"Starlight, please don’t!" Ono implored of her. "We've seen where this leads, and so have you! If you alter the future, you’re going to do more harm than good, to the point every will suffer because of you."

"Oh, please! Like any of you know what I went through?!"

"I do!" Fuli stated loudly and firmly enough to get the unicorn’s attention and for her to briefly stop ripping the paper up. "Sunburst was more than just your best friend? Your future special somepony." Starlight gasped frozen in shock by how on the mark she is.

“What do you mean?” She uttered quietly once she briefly recovered.

“Because I had friends whose bickering caused the one cheetah I saw more than as a friend run away from home, never to return to this very day. Like you I had that special look in his eyes the same way you shared with Sunburst. And I too went through that very heartbreak you’re feeling now.”

“Oh is that right?!” Starlight scoffed while resisting the urge to tear up. “Well if your so-called friends really do value your friendship so much why were they worth forgiving?”

“Because they went through every day since I left them trying and searching every inch outside of the Pride Lands trying to find him and they were both truly remorseful and regretted the way things went down.” She looked over her shoulders. “While I didn’t have cutie marks back then and we don’t have them the same way you ponies do, I do know a thing or two about pushing away friendship and holding onto the past. And if Sunburst were here, he wouldn’t have wanted any of this, because he won’t be seeing the pony he befriended and loved all because you pursed something that wasn’t worth pursing.”

“Fuli’s right, Starlight!” Bunga said while moving to speak himself. “Just because things didn’t work out the way you wanted doesn’t mean you should do bad things to cope with it. Sometimes things change later on in life, and you just need to adjust to it so that it still works out. And I’m sure your friend back then would have done the same had you tried again to make it work.”

But even still, Starlight still refused to believe any of them. "Oh, spare me your heart-to-heart nonsense! You're just trying to talk me down so you can save your precious Pony Guard friends in time!"

"But it's not just them, Starlight!" Ono stated, taking his turn to speak up. "We're doing this to save you too! If you rip that scroll there will be dire consequences for not just us, but you too! If you do this, you lose every bit of sanity you have left and you’ll find yourself committing even bigger atrocities you could ever imagine. And by the end of it, you’ll never get another chance to redeem yourself ever again without our friends to help keep you in check." He briefly flew beside her to add while shifting eyes between her and Twilight. “Believe me, we know what’s it like and it’s happened before.”

Starlight only rolled her eyes as she groaned while continuing to rip the scroll even further. "Ugh, what's so special about your friends?! How can a group of ponies along with a lion, hippo, honey badger, cheetah, and egret who are so different be so important?!"

"The differences between us and our friends are the very things that make our friendship strong!" Beshte explained. "Because of said friendship, I found a new family with Applejack and much like with Kion who shares the same brother and sister like bond with Twilight, we see each other as family together."

Starlight's eyes closed shut as tears rolled down her face. "I thought Sunburst and I were the same. But we turned out different, and it tore our friendship apart!"

"So try again!" Beshte encouraged. "Make new friends! And if something that you can't control happens that changes things, work through it together. That's what friendship is."

Twilight then spoke next. "And it's not just my friendships that are important, everybody's is! When yours ended, it led us here, but just imagine all the others that are out there waiting for you if you just give them a chance…including us." Starlight looked on unsure and uncertain of what she meant by that until she then said. “If you stop now, this could be a start of a whole new friendship between us.”

Hearing that Starlight both astonished and baffled with what she is just being offered. “You...you want to WHAT?! Even after everything that had just happened?! But...WHY?!”

“Because you deserve a second chance in life. The same opportunity my friends gave me when I was in the same position you were back then even after I sought revenge against them. Because of them, I’m a much better pony than I was before. And they’re all willing to do the same to you if you’ll let them help you too.”

More tears fell from Starlight's eyes as she tries to process what she is being told. "But…if I do, how do I know they won't all end the same way?"

"I guess it's up to you to make sure they don't. It might not all work out in the end and it’ll take some time, but it’s all worth trying and pursing, because that’s how friendship works." The princess extended her hoof to the crying unicorn, who looked away with uncertainty. "Please, Starlight…trust me on this."

Starlight Glimmer looked back and forth from the hoof to the scroll. She looked upon their faces including Kion who managed to wake himself up long enough for this, seeing them all eagerly hoping she would take the offer with encouraging expressions. After some internally debating and hesitation…

...she took it.

With a shy smile she placed her hoof on Twilight's, as the princess warmly welcomed her into her circle of friends, dropping the scroll for Spike to grab it. Then, right above their heads, a booming sound was heard and a beautiful rainbow arched over their heads, as the Sonic Rainboom happened like it’s supposed to with a beautiful wave of color shimmering in the sunlight across all of Equestria. Starlight looked on in amazement seeing she actually and nearly prevented this all from happening.

And with the Sonic Rainboom happening, Fluttershy realized her talent for animals, Applejack returned home, Rarity found the gems she had been missing, Pinkie Pie found her smile and cheerful demeanor and Twilight Sparkle's magic was activated thus becoming Princess Celestia’s student. Not to mention the fact with the Rainboom's ripple effect felt in the Pride Lands, Ono was saved and born into existence, Bunga managed to live to this very day thanks to Kion discovering the Roar for the first time, and thus the Lion Guard was reborn into existence as well.

The vortex opened once more, Twilight held her new friends close as she and the group were sucked in one last time.

The vortex opened once more and, once again, the ground landed on the ground. Only, this time it wasn't just any ground. But very familiar and safe ground since they all landed on the floor inside the still standing Castle of Friendship. With the Rainboom restored, everything was back to the way it was before Starlight tampered with it before the vortex closed one last time while taking the scroll along with it, never to be seen, or used, again. The castle had returned and the present was back as it was.

“Aw yeah!” Bunga jumped for joy as he basked in his surroundings. “One magical map of Equestria, check!"

Spike repetitively kissed the floor. "One castle of friendship, check!"

“And now to go fight Scar!” Twilight stated as she wasted no time in rushing on over with the current task at hoof needing to be dealt with as soon they got back here with the still weaken Kion in tow.

“Let’s!” Bunga stated before running on over towards the exit only along with everyone else.

“Starlight!” Twilight called out to her while gesturing her head towards the door. “Come on!”

“You mean…”

“Yes! I’ll explain on the way! But for now, let’s go!”

Without missing a beat, Starlight complied with her orders as they made their way on over where the whole army of Scar is preparing to destroy the Pony Guard.

Said Guard has currently made it’s way down towards the caldera where the volcanic ash needed to cure the Royal Family is waiting for them.

Makini wasted no time in quickly scooping up plenty of ash needed to heal everyone and placing them in her provided gourds. "I've got it! I've got it! Well, actually, the gourd's got the ash. But I've got the gourd!”

“And we have just enough time to get back by sundown if we leave now.” Rainbow added feeling better already now that they got what they needed from here.

“Ready! Let's go!”

“Great!” Kyoga’s satisfied smile turned into a look of caution as she looked around their surroundings inside the volcano. “Now, that just leaves the matter of whatever trap Scar has placed for us down here.”

“And here it is!” Said villain's voice said to the group as he appeared before everyone in the flesh, smiling evilly like always.

“And just the half lion and alicorn I want to see!” Rainbow furiously stated before trying to charge at him once more as quickly as possible.

But given of how quick Scar is he just stepped aside and the pony herself ended crashing face first into the wall. And she didn’t have time to react when she was levitated and sent slamming face-first into the ground without even a second glance.

“Such a pity.” Scar shook his head. “Coming from the pony who caught onto me more quickly. Disappointing.”

“And equally disappointing that you think that you can stop us from whatever you’re planning to you now, Scar!” Applejack retorted without feeling intimidated visibly.

“Really, Honest Applejack?” Scar chuckled. “You all know what I’m up to? Each and every one of your average-sized brains have pieced together the rest of my plot?”

“That you sent Starlight to lead Twilight and the Lion Guard astray, sent that scorpion friend of yours to sting Simba, lure us to the volcano to retrieve the only cure that can help him along with the rest of the Royal Family, and had the Outsiders stall us long enough so we don’t get back before sundown?!” Pinkie Pie rapidly replied with her serious game face.

“That’s pretty good. And this coming from the pony who’s head is in the cloud’s half the time.” Said pony is literally slurping down chocolate milk from a pink cloud that just happened to appear over her head with the biggest smile on her face much to the other's confusion and dismay this is happening during a serious time and place. Paying no attention to Pinkie he continued. “And it’s almost as if I barely consider everyone here a threat.” Both Applejack and Sunset’s face turned red with anger to match the annoyed and equally angry looks from the rest of the ponies and Kyoga. “Oh, there’s that temper again. What are you going to do? You going to try to stop me?”

“Yes. Like this.” Sunset stated with a fierce fighting look before moving to make a charge towards Scar himself while Kyoga led the rest of the team on towards the exit so they can safely.

Applejack moved to sling Rainbow Dash on her back while Pinkie rolled herself on over due to her huge balloon-sized belly while Sunset goes all in on the offense in trying to fight the lion / alicorn that's trying to kill her former mentor. And judging by the energy the unicorn herself is putting into, she is doing a really great job of fending off against him by releasing beam after beam at him and multiple barriers shielded in her own defense.

“Looks like your trap failed, Scar. We got the ash. And now we're taking it back to the king and princesses!”

After a couple minutes of enduring the unicorn's vigorous willpower and inner fight, Scar simply shook his head after shielding himself while throwing a few beams himself before swatting aside Sunset before teleporting away from his current spot and reappearing right before them. “Oh you think?!” Before Kyoga could work her magic to teleport the group out of the volcano, Scar used a device that literally shocked the lioness right on the chest.

“AAAHHH!” She screamed in pain as she dropped to the ground and ended up passing out from the attack along with Sunset who is now wearily with great head pain due to the strong hit she just endured.

“What...What was that?!” Makini exclaimed in shock as she moved to try to help the lioness up to her paws.

“Oh, this? It’s called a stun gun!” He answered as he held up said device crackling electricity. “It has just knocked your friend out for the next hour. That’s when the sun has already set at 7. And has short-circuited her powers for the next six hours. That’s midnight.” He shows them the current clock that reads 6:00 PM before turning to Applejack. “I’m telling you this along with Rainbow because I’ve seen your grades and I know you’re both bad at math. That being said in case you’re all wondering...I haven't even sprung my trap... Until now.” With his voice loud and booming as fire from the volcano appeared around him. “Army of Scar! Attack!”

“Oh no.”

“Oh my.”

“Oh dear.”

Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity fearfully expressed with their best means of escape have been completely neutralized.

“You can't escape, Pony Guard.” Ushari told the group as he appeared from his hiding spot before he along with the rest of the skinks and crocodiles appeared ready to descend upon them.

“This time we get to eat 'em.” Kiburi said to the rest of the crocodiles before snapping their jaws and leaping down from where they are standing.

“Are we in trouble now?” Pinkie asked the others.

“Yep.”

“C’mon.” Applejack told everyone while trying to the lead the way away from the reptile sanction of Scar’s army. “We gotta go! C'mon, this way!”

As Scar laughed wickedly at their predicament, the others all look around trying to find another way out of the caldera. But unfortunately for them, their next best pathway is suddenly cut off when Janja and his clan appeared right in front of them.

“Got ya now, Pony Guard!”

“Everyone, follow me!”

They tried to go the opposite way only to see that Reirei and her pack has already blocked off that path too leading to the four awake ponies and frightened mandrill to gasp in horror.

“Oh, no!”

“Sure! Come this way! I dare ya!” Reirei cackled as every Outsider from every angle moved to surround and close in on the Guard forcing them to back up against the cliff behind them.

“Oh! They're coming from every direction!” Makini fearfully expressed.

“And we’re trapped!” Rarity stated in the same tone.

“Yes.” Scar laughed sadistically at their predicament. “They are indeed And you all have nowhere go to!”

As the heroes are all backing up, Rainbow finally managed to come to from the blow she endured.

“Rainbow! Clear us a way out!” Applejack urgently said to her.

“On it…” Rainbow quickly flew up then… “Oh! Ow! Ow! Hey! What...Ow!” As she found herself enduring a series of quick rapid punches and kicks from a couple pairs of hooves along with a flock of birds accompanying.

“Stay out of the fast lane, young timer!”

“Yeah! Get out of the way, pony!”

“Yeah you heard him, Rainbow Crash!”

Rainbow could only grunt in pain and look on with dizzy disbelief that Scar has managed to get both of her enemies to work against her in this heinous plot to burn her and the rest of her friends to the ground.

“Lightning Dust, Wind Rider, and vultures, too?!” Makini exclaimed as she sees the numbers against them piling up. “For someone so evil, Scar sure has a lot of friends.”

“He sure does.” Rainbow commented as he peeled his face from the ground while slightly spinning with stars over her head.

“Oh darling, you have no idea he much he understands friendship.” Rarity remarked in agreement before moving to help Rainbow up alongside with Fluttershy. “I just wish he wasn’t so evil and using it to boil us all alive!”

“Well, too bad, Rarity.” Scar returned unsympathetically. “Because this is all very real and is going to happen all according to plan.”

“Rainbow Dash! Are you okay?!” Fluttershy worryingly asked.

“Never been better.” She replied while still a little dazed before having to zip away when Kiburi narrowly snapped his jaws right onto her tail before moving to continue advancing on the helpless group of heroes who all have truly no way out of this trap.

Scar then moved to float right towards the edge of the cliff where everyone is being backed up towards with great pleasure as he now is seconds away from putting this all away.“You see? There is no escape.”

The heroes can only look on helplessly as they have no means of getting out of this. Without Kion and Twilight around, it was a hopeless situation and they have no way to get around the entire army ensuring they can fight their way out and away from the lava that’s nearly shooting right at their bodies.

“Um, everypony. It’s starting to get really hot here. And I don’t mean that in a good way.” Pinkie said as her poofy tail nearly got singed from the steam and lava shot in her direction when a part of the cliff gave way and plopped into the fiery pit.

“I don’t suppose any of you got any good ideas we can use? Like right now?” Rartiy desperately implored of everyone for someone to be the hero here.

“Or maybe even a bad one?” Fluttershy suggested in agreement.

“I wish I knew.” Applejack regretfully replied as none of them have the answer they need.

From afar at the edge of the Pride Lands, Twilight quickly huddled the Lion Guard along with Spike, plus Starlight, and minus Kion who is currently resting alongside his father inside Pride Rock so they can go over the game plan so they can all escape the Outlands with their lives.

“You all know what to do?” Twilight asked everyone after she got done explaining what each and every one will do to make this all work out in the end.

“Yep.”

“Got it.”

“Affirmative.”

“Let’s do this.”

“Starlight?”

“Ready when you are.”

“Then let’s go!” With that she then led everyone on over to the Outlands while getting everyone all over to the top of the volcano with a flash of magic.

And once they arrived near the top so none of their enemies can spot them, they all split up and got themselves in position ready to do their part when the time comes. During which Starlight still uncertain with time running out for the Royal Family and how much Scar has all of his bases covered this time around. Even when they managed to make it back, she’s still unsure and anxious whether Twilight’s counter plan will work this time.

“Are we sure this is going to work?” Starlight asked Fuli and Spike who are positioned the closet to her.

“Nope. And all I can promise is that we’re all going home together and alive or none of us are.” The former replied.

“And as long as we trust and have faith in her, then I’m pretty sure it involves the best outcome for all of us.” The latter added.

Even that did little to assure anything, she would knows better than to anxiously and frantically ask questions there are no answers to any question she really wants to ask. Especially since she has worked for the lion himself for a while.

Just as Scar relishes in preparing to destroy the Pony Guard himself, he along with everyone else stopped in their sadistic joy just when they heard a voice call out to them.

“If you think you’re destroying the Pony Guard, you better think again, Scar!” Twilight’s voice stated to everyone as they all turned their heads towards her direction as she appeared right in front of them with the Pony Guard and Makini all delighted to see and hear her voice.

While surprised to see her, he still took pleasure and delight upon her sudden appearance since it still plays into his plan. “Ah, Twilight. Perfect timing.”

“Yep! Right on schedule! And now it is time for you to let my friends go so we can all leave!”

“And what makes you think that’s going to happen?”

The princess simply flared her horn to show off a simple demonstration of power to make her point clear to the enemy hovering and threatening her friends. “Does that answer your question?”

“As a matter of fact, no. It doesn’t.” To prove his point to show he is not impressed, he quickly flies by without warning to use his stun gun on her before she could even have a chance to show it. “In fact it only answers of how you get to join your friends as you all die together without any help whatsoever.” He then quickly whisks her up and tosses her right up towards the rest of the Pony Guard who are all quick to help her up on her hooves. “So, want to try to answer that again, or should we move this along since I want to roll out the dessert cart tonight.” He then quickly added to Pinkie. “And no Pinkie, I don’t mean chocolate lava cakes the way you make them.”

“Aww and Eww!”

Twilight still remained unfazed as everything is all lining up perfectly in her eyes as she secretly has Kion's crown tucked and hidden inside her mane. Now is where she hopes what she has learned from dealing with Scar will pay off once again. “Everyone get behind me! And stay together!” Everyone all proceeded to do so without question. “I’m warning you. Get out of our way!”

Hearing this got a laugh from Mzingo. “She's warning us?”

“Nothin' tastier than a meal with a sense of humor.” Kiburi commented clearly amused himself.

“On your hooves, girls.” Twilight quietly said to her friends before turning back to face Scar directly to answer his question again. “And in answer to your question, Scar. We’ll move this along...my way…” All while mentally hoping what she’s about to do will work.

Before Scar could ask himself of what she means by that, clouds formed around the volcano along with the Great Lions of the Pride Lands Past appeared. And then Twilight managed to perform and use the Roar of the Elders for the first time in this world to blast Kiburi, Ushari, along with every reptile backing them up off and downwards. All into the nearby walls, knocking them out as they hit their heads thus clearing a path for them to escape much to everyone’s amazement and astonishment especially the Pony Guard. Sunset herself was left clearly jaw dropped stunned as she had just regained consciousness just before it all happened.

“Whoa!”

“Oh my!”

“Goodness!”

“Awesome!”

“I never thought you had it in you!”

“Let’s go!” She stated before leading the way down to the cliff with Applejack, Pinkie, and Rarity all carrying both Sunset and Kyoga to safety.

“Oh no you don’t!” Scar firmly and furiously stated as he quickly intercepted the Guard and knocked Twilight backwards to the point she is now nearly hanging on for her life while she nearly went over the cliff.

“Twilight!” Rarity called out in horror upon seeing this.

“Go!” Twilight asserted just when Scar stomped and latched his claws on her hooves and the jackals moved to quickly block the Guard’s way down.

“But we can’t just…”

“Go now! You’re running out of time!”

“You might as well give it up Pony Guard!” Reirei firmly stated with a confident smile feeling very sure the ponies are all not getting by her. “Because none of you are going anywhere now!” But suddenly she along with the rest of her pack were suddenly blown away and knocked unconscious when Twilight managed to squeeze out another direct Roar right at them thus allowing the Guard to get on by.

While she and the others hated, the idea of leaving her, they reluctantly did so because they figured out this is all to ensure that it’ll buy them enough time to get back before sundown. And especially since she is now holding off the only Outsider in the volcano that can stop them.

“Hyenas! Stop them!” Scar commanded as the alicorn in his grasp in struggling to break herself free.

“You heard him! Get ‘em boys!” Janja stated to his clan before leading the way to pursue them.

“Don’t let them take that gourd!” Scar shouted just when Twilight managed to perform a front-back kick to his face to force him back and free herself.

Once she was free, she quickly intercepted the hyenas at the exit just when the Pony Guard passed by so she can use the precise Roar on them thus knocking them out as well thus allowing her friends to exit the caldera. Just then she found herself tackled to ground as Scar moved to try maul the alicorn in retaliation for helping the ponies along with Kyoga escape. At this point he is now furious with Twilight since this is really ruining his plan to eliminate the Royal Family and the Guard in one fellow swoop. And his growing fury is now showing in his recent commands to his army.

“Vultures, Lightning Dust, Wind Rider, Go! Get the ash! It’s in the mandrill’s gourd!” He commanded as all of the flyers moved to go after the Guard while he continues to battle Twilight who once again managed to free himself before moving to continue fighting Scar himself with her own hooves and wings alone.

“C'mon, everyone! Hurry!” Applejack told everyone as they all made their way across the lava stream by leaping the rocks that’ll allow them to cross safely.

While everyone was able to perform the feat with ease, Makini however didn’t when she ended up tripping and nearly fell into the pit. Luckily she was able to pull herself up to safety. But that’s when Mzingo along with the other flyers appeared with their eyes all locked on the gourd.

”Gourd in sight. Vultures, attack!”

At the same time both Lighting Dust and Wind Rider worked out their game plan.

“Wind Rider, follow the vultures while I go after Rainbow Crash!”

Said pony didn’t entirely agree with the call. “But why should you get to…”

“Because I have the speed and agility to put up a better fight and have you the energy to help stall the Guard from getting back home before sundown!” She firmly and quickly returned and then added before he could argue about it further. “We don’t have time for this! Go!”

Wind Rider moved to do as he was told before following after the vultures as they moved to attack Makini in their bid to obtain the ash-filled gourd from her.

“No! Shoo! Go away!”

“Makini!” Fluttershy gasped upon being the first to spot her in trouble before quickly flying over there to help her out alongside Rainbow Dash when she spotted her former Wonderbolt rival appear to stop her.

“Lightning Dust!”

“Rainbow Dash!”

“Let’s dance!”

“Let’s!”

The two proceeded to fly around while trying to trip each other up allow with throwing punches and kicks to the point they moved to tumble across the top of the volcano on the ground.

"Bunga! Ono! Fuli! Go! Go!” Twilight called out to them via the hearing devices they all have in their ears just when Scar moved to swipe his paws at her face as she countered each and every attempt by using her hooves to block them.

With that call, the three friends all moved to spring into action.

“No!” Makini screamed as she vainly attempted to shoo away the vultures while holding onto her staff for dear life. Luckily for her, Fluttershy Ono was quick to sent the vultures scattering with one swift fly by.

Seeing him sparked Mzingo to adjust his flock’s advances in order to properly deal with him. “You two deal with Ono and Fluttershy! We'll get the gourd!”

The two vultures moved to do so and managed to knock her staff away and into the nearby stream of lava.

“No!” She gasped as she moved to try to save it.

“Don't let her get that gourd!” Mzingo told his partner just when Bunga and Fuli appeared and swiftly knocked them to the ground.

“Zuka Zama!”

“Huwezi!”

“Oh…” Makini groaned as she struggled to get the gourd off her staff which is really secured to the staff that can no longer be salvaged. “I tied it on too tight!”

“Well that’s unfortunate, little mandrill.” Wind Rider said while flying by. “Too bad I got to ensure it remains out of your reach.”

“I think not, Wind Rider!” Rarity’s voice said to him just as she appeared and gave him a gold swift karate kick to the gut to knock him out of the air before proceeding to kick his butt thoroughly. At the same time she used her magic to cut the gourd off of the staff allowing Makini to hold onto it.

“Got it! I got it!” Makini exclaimed in relief as she hugged onto the much needed cure for the Royal Family.

“Stop her!” Mzingo shouted to his fellow vultures as they all moved to gang up and advance on the Lion and Pony Guard (minus their leaders) in a full-on attempt to get them from getting away with the much needed ash.

“The vultures are coming back!” Fuli told everyone as they began to close in on them.

“Not if I can help with that!” Rainbow Dash stated just as she managed to knock and slam her rival aside into the nearby rocks before rushing on over to stop the vultures herself.

She quickly cut off the vultures by flying around them as fast as she can to the point she created a tornado that they all had no control over. Then with a swift whip of her tail she sent the tornado twirling on over back towards the top of the volcano where the vultures all screamed helplessly as they are all sent flying helplessly inside the caldera crashing into the other defeated members of Scar’s army.

“Come on!” With that the Lion and Pony Guard made their escape from the Outlands.

At the same time, Starlight and Spike are the only ones who stayed around is left to watch over as Twilight and Scar continue to fight it out with the former still holding her own even without her magic. And fearing for her new friend she moved to observe the battle up closer while still keeping out of their sight to which Spike moved to do the same. Someway, she hoped she can do her part just like Twilight requested of her.

Meanwhile, the Lion and Pony Guard managed to make their way back to the Pride Lands, but by then enough time has already been killed to ensure that they are in trouble and really running out of time.

“The sun is setting!” Applejack said as she looked back at the sun that is now doing just that. “We won’t get back in time!”

“I can get back before the sun sets but I can’t hold the gourd.”

“And while I can get back before the sun sets too, I need to get Canterlot really quick and I really don’t want lose hold of the gourds too.”

Both of the Guard’s Fastest stated.

“I’m too big to ride on Fuli. And I don’t feel like I can hang onto Rainbow to get the gourd back in one piece.” Makini said.

Both Bunga and Pinkie smiled as they were both to state a quick resolution to the matter.

“Maybe you are, but I’m not.”

“And I can definitely keep pace with Rainbow and hold onto the gourd at the same time.”

“Bunga? Pinkie?”

“We got this one, guys and girls.”

“Me too.”

Bunga moved to leap onto Fuli’s back while Pinkie held her poofy tail out so she can obtain the gourds they need for the dying ponies back home.

“Makini, give us those gourds.”

With no other choice, she moved to place her trust in the two. “Hold them tight.” She told them while handing one to Bunga so Simba can be healed while doing the same for the other three gourds that Cadance, Shining Armor, and Celestia need in order to be healed.

“You got it!”

“We won’t let you down!”

They both assured.

“Ready?” Rainbow asked Pinkie who nodded in response with her game face as they each held onto one of the two gourds with Pinkie carrying two in her tail.

“Then let’s go!”

“Huwezi!”

The four friends all sped off ahead as they all rush to get back before the sun completely sets where all hope is lost while the others can only run their own fast pace and hope things all work out in the end.

Back in the Pride Lands, Rafiki is still there watching the sun set with a look of hope that is really fading into sadness as he is unable to heal his friend in time without the volcanic ash needed to pull out the venom from his sting. Privately with his back turned after briefly glimpsing at the saddening sight, had Rafiki himself shed a tear before moving to place a hand on his head feeling all hope of saving him is lost now…

“Rafiki! Rafiki!” Bunga’s voice called out to him as they arrived inside the volcano.

“Bunga?”

“We got the ash! We got the…” Bunga suddenly fell off of Fuli when she came to a complete stop and ended up losing control of the gourd he was carrying while the others gasped in horror.

“I gotcha!” Pumbaa said before moving to catch his adopted nephew on his back.

And fortunately for Bunga, Rafiki managed to catch the gourd obtaining the much needed remedy to save Simba. “Yes! Yes! The ash!”

Nala sighed in relief as both she and Kiara hugged onto her mate. “Just in time.”

“Could have said it any better.” Kiara said in agreement as she joined her mother in hugging her father.

At the same time, Luna while working her magic alongside Karabi and Lite now couldn’t bare to look at his dying sister, niece, nephew-in-law as she looks on at the setting sun before shedding a single tear of her own. She too is feeling all hope is lost with time just about to run out when…

“Luna! Luna!”

“We got the ash!”

“Rainbow? Pinkie?”

Both immediately stopped right in front of her as they both presented the three gourds containing the much needed ash needed to save the three dying ponies on their deathbeds.

“Here you go, your majesty!”

“Three gourds of volcanic ash as requested!”

“Oh thank goodness!” Luna exclaimed in relief as she used her magic to levitate the ash from the gourds so she can work her magic in using it to heal them. “And just in time.”

Back inside the volcano, Scar is really pouring into his firepower as he tries to overpower the alicorn who is still holding her own without magic. She isn’t even resorting to taunting, gloating, or playing mind games, not at any point during their duel. Throughout it all she has only needed to rely on her martial arts skills and has does very well at landing more blows on him. It boiled up to the point Scar strategically moved to corner her on the edge of the cliff that he had the Pony Guard recently backed up against in order to put an end to this.

“End of the line, Twilight.” He stated with a killer death stare.

“So it seems.” She returned without fear in her eyes.

“Oh, I’d say it is definitely the end of the line for you since you have nowhere to go, you’re without magic, and you have no one in your corner. And I don’t mean that metaphorically, or rhetorically, or poetically, or theoretically, or in any other fancy way. You literally have no means of escape from death here this time!”

“Maybe not.” She replied acknowledging of how true that this. “But when there’s a will there’s a way. And I still have one more trick up my hooves.”

To prove her point, she spun herself around like a tornado and plowed her way down the cliff and right by Scar knocking him off of his paws before turning back around and using the air generated momentum to knock her opponent backwards and up against the nearest wall after tumbling across the caldera.

And that’s when both Spike and Starlight acted on cue, when the former appeared from his hiding spot and created a wall of fire from his mouth just when Scar got back up on his paws ready to make another charge at Twilight. Then the latter moved to run alongside both Twilight and Spike as they made their escape towards the exit where she then worked her magic to make themselves disappear and then reappear outside the volcano. And by the time Scar got by the wall of fire and then managed to spot the escaping trio they were already gone in a flash.

Upon seeing that Twilight has once more outsmarted and beat him at his own game had the half lion and alicorn roaring in anger thus causing the volcano to release a small stream of lava down from the top.

After escaping the Outlands, Twilight, Spike, and Starlight wasted no time in making their way to the hospital in Canterlot where the former is fueled with urgent worry hoping that her brother, sister-in-law, and motherly like mentor are all okay.

“Shining Armor! Cadance! Celestia!”

She looked on utterly heartbroken with her ears dropped to match as she fears the worse has happened until…

“Hey kiddo!” Her brother weakly greeted with a smile.

Seeing that had Twilight smile and cry tears of joy as she hugged her brother tightly.

“Thank you, Twilight.” Cadance said to her sister-in-law with a smile as she finds herself next to be hugged while holding the little bundle of joy in one of her free hooves. Upon seeing the cute filly had Twilight’s own heart melted even further as she moved to greet her baby niece for the first time.

“Hello little one, I’m Auntie Twily and welcome to the family.”

This little filly already took a liking to her as she moved to place her tiny hooves onto her face while kissing her nose much to her aunt’s heartfelt joy as the baby unveiled her wings thus making her a natural born alicorn. Normally there would be shock and surprise at seeing something like this but because of the recent trauma, the baby being born was enough to put that shock aside.

And last but not least on her list of ponies to hug is her own mentor Princess Celestia who had this to say for what she did to make this all possible. “I’m very proud of you, Twilight.”

“Couldn’t have said it any better myself.” Simba said in agreement as he briefly laid his head up to let her know of that.

With the heartfelt reunions and emotions all sorted out, Luna spoke up to let her know of their current condition. “They’re all very weak, Twilight. But they’re all going to be fine.”

Both Timon and Pumbaa continued comically sobbing tears of joy with the heartache they felt today was bad enough especially considering they nearly lost the lion they raised as an adopted son by mere seconds.

“Oh! Our baby’s okay!”

“Oh, I always knew he would!”

"One group of amazing friends along with one big happy family all still alive, check!" Spike said happily upon seeing the heartfelt scene while hoisting up an umbrella to shield herself from all of the tears shed from the comedic duo along with the pink pony standing next to him.

“Thank you Luna.” Twilight said while moving to hug her too to which she returned the favor.

“Don’t thank me, dear Twilight. Since it is the Pony Guard who obtained the ash, and it is also the Lion Guard who helped you stop Starlight from altering the very fabric of time, not to mention it was also your very own plan to counter Scar’s recent machinations that we are all here right now.” She then sternly eyed the unicorn who can only look aside in shame when all eyes are directed at her. “That being said, may I ask what’s she doing here?”

“Yeah!

And after seeing Cadance open her eyes and smile at Twilight too she moved to pull her into the hug too.

"Yeah…” Applejack agreed while glaring at the unicorn in the room. “What's she doin' here?"

Starlight looked down in regret just knowing of how much trouble she is in now for her role in causing all of this to begin with.

“It’s kind of a long story…” Twilight began.

“...and that’s how it all happened.” She finished as she recapped everything to everyone else in the Guard (including Kion who has recovered long enough to join in on the meeting) along with Princess Luna and Makini as they moved their conversation to the waiting room to allow the others to properly heal under Rafiki’s watch.

“Wow!” Makini gasped in excitement.

“I can’t believe it.” Luna gasped softly.

“I know.” Ono nodded in agreement. “Crazy isn’t it? I wouldn’t believe it myself if I hadn’t been there.”

Rainbow Dash was beyond amazed with this story. "Wow! I mean, I knew my rainboom was awesome, but I never thought all of Equestria and the Pride Lands depended on it!"

"Or on us!" Pinkie added.

"That's really remarkable!" Sunset complimented with a bag of ice on her forehead to reduce the swelling from the bump she received back inside the volcano in the Outlands when she hit her head.

"I think it's more than that." Twilight explained. "Even when we didn't become friends, Kion never was able to form the bond that grew to become the Lion Guard, and Ono and Bunga were never around to be friends with him, along with many other friendships that either never came to be or just disappeared. Friendship connects all of us."

“Poa!” Beshte remarked with equal astonishment. “If that’s how powerful friendship is I can’t imagine how things would have turned out if Simba never returned to the Pride Lands when he did.

“If that were to happen then Scar would still be king and none of us would even be here.” Makini deduced. “And boy, that sure be something all right. Actually something I’d rather not want to think about ever happening.”

“You got that right.” Fuli said in agreement. “And it would sure be something I’d rather not try to think about either.”

“Indeed.” Luna nodded as Twilight continued explaining.

"Like I said, the Magic of Friendship doesn't just exist in Eqeustria…it's everywhere. Undoing one group of friends made its magic less powerful."

“And amazingly that very Rainboom is what kept me from completely losing it.” Kion said, just mind-blown and relieved to see and hear the blessings he now has. “Because I sure would not have been able to get over losing both Bunga and Ono.”

“Well aren’t you glad, we’re still alive now.” Bunga asked trying to get his best friend to look on the bright side of things.

“Yes, I am.” Kion honestly returned as he hugged both of his friends to show how grateful he is to have them in his life.

“"I can't believe you were all were able to travel through time like that." Applejack commented, sounding very impressed by what Twilight and the Lion Guard did while the whole storm was going on in the Outlands.

"That Starlight must be pretty magical!" Pinkie stated, equally impressed before spotting the unimpressed look Sunset's giving her. "Not quite like Sunset or Twilight's, but still very impressive."

“She sure is, but she is not up to par with Twilight.” Fuli stated while begging to differ a little. “And with all honesty, the only reason she was able to stay a step ahead of us was by using her brains after realizing she can’t overpower Twilight in a straight up fight.”

“Something that Scar would do if it was him back there or what he’s been able to do many times thus far.” Bunga pointed out.

“And he sure would be proud if we were all on the same side of alliance.” Ono commented in agreement though rather uncomfortable with comparing themselves to Scar himself.

"True…” Twilight didn’t deny nor show discomfort given of how similar she is to Scar. “...But even with my powerful magic being able to overpower her, that wasn't what we had to use to stop her. We had to convince her to stop on her own. Once we realized that, everything fell into place."

“So what you are suggesting, Twilight?” Kion asked. “You’re not suggesting we just let her go free are you?”

Twilight shook her head. “Of course not. But...I do have something else in mind.”

“Like what?” Kion couldn’t help but show curiosity of where his friend is going with this along with the night monarch.

Starlight Glimmer paced in the nearby hallways as she awaited for what the most powerful figures in Equestria and the Pride Lands have decided to do with her. There was no denying she had to answer to what she did even if she did even a recent change of heart. It was also taking quite a while for them to discuss her punishment. Regardless she personally vowed to herself she would accept it, no matter how nervous she is inside.

Her ears perked upwards when Spike walked out and asked her to come inside. She gulped and exhaled before mustering the courage to walk inside to meet with the Lion and Pony Guard along with Princess Luna face to face. Once she was seeing them eye to eye she moved to bow her head in shame as she prepared for the worst to come with dignity.

"I know there's no excuse for what I did, but I want you all to know that I'm ready for whatever punishment you think is fair."

Both Twilight and Kion stood before her. The purple alicorn spoke first, "We've been thinking a lot about how badly Equestria fared without just one group of friends, because even when one friendship dies, the results can be disastrous."

"Especially when one friend looses sight that any decision we make can have a consequence latter on. And that consequence can grow, effecting other friends as well."

Starlight sighed in regret as it really hits home now. "I know first-hoof how true that can be."

“And that's why we've asked you here.” Luna said as she had her say in the matter. “Keep in mind normally, you would be facing jail time for what you did today.” Starlight briefly looked down in regret hearing this. “But knowing and learning that you have amazing talent. And in light of the fact that you helped save my sister, niece, Twilight’s brother, along with recently weds newborn foal and the lion king himself, you are going to be given a choice in the matter.”

“I do?”

“Yes. Instead of jail time, you will get to serve a lengthy probation along with community service.”

“And in addition, you will get to learn magic under my tutelage and supervision where I get to teach you everything I know. By doing so you’ll get to join the Lion and Pony Guard on patrol and go on missions with us. Mandatory missions that is. Where you can learn to use your power to help make the world an even better place. That is of course, if you want to.”

Starlight herself couldn't believe the choice she has in front of her. An opportunity to prove that she is a changed pony and meet so many new friends. Sure, she still would have to serve a sentence, but by the end of the day it’ll be all worth so she quickly returned with her reply.

“I do.”

“All right! Great choice, Starlight!” Bunga wasted no time hopping onto her back. “Though keep in mind that there will be something I will want you to do when I ask you to.”

“What’s that?”

Bunga quickly presented her a leaf filled with bugs, worms, and grubs in his paws where he moved to offer her one to try. “To prove that you’re one of us, you got to eat like us. So…”

Starlight looked on like it is one of the craziest things to ever do while glancing around the room at everyone else. And everyone was pretty much looking back to say. “Better do what the honey badger tells you to do.” So with that she moved to pick up the biggest and slimmest worm out of the offering leaf as she moved to work up the courage to eat it.

“Okay. Here goes.” In one swift slurp and swallow she downed it whole with closed eyes. As she processed the taste she found herself feeling unsure before opening her eyes finding it to be actually quite something.

“Slimy...yet satisfying.”

Bunga in return smiled while jabbing her in the shoulder “That’s it. You’re off to a great start already.”

“Already?! But how?” Starlight asked.

“Easy. All you have to do is make a friend!” Twilight answered with a smile. “And you've got a whole lot of them right here."

As she looked around at all the warm and inviting friendly faces in the room, Starlight Glimmer knew and came value what true friendship really is.

Following that long day and night in both worlds, some time had passed as things are slowly getting better. With half of the Royal Family already fully recovering from their near-death experiences, the new born foal Shining Armor and Princess Cadance has been able to grow up a little where she was already starting to develop her new magical powers and prove herself to be a handful, yet a sweet baby deep down.

And as for the Kumbuka Celebration that got cut short due to what happened the other day, they were able to hold a make-up celebration so that King Simba got the praise near and far for what he did to ensure that the Pride Lands did not suffer a death sentence from his predecessor. And it all went wonderfully.

Starlight herself felt wonderfully herself as she was beginning to feel really happy herself for the first time since she was a filly. And it was all thanks to the power of friendship.

“Someday...Someday…” She thought to herself as she ponders the idea of being able to reunite and reconcile with her old friend Sunburst.

Starlight Glimmer:

I never thought that I would find a place

To step right in and start again

I never thought that I could just begin

Right where I left off and make a friend

Twilight Sparkle:

Don't ever think that it might be too late

You don't have to wait, there's no mistakes with the friends you make

A friendship's only made of what you bring

And if you do it right, you can do anything

Starlight Glimmer and The Lion and Pony Guard:

Just use your eyes

This time, no lies

Just don't disguise

Who you are inside

Because your friends are always there for you

You don't have to be the same for friendship to be true

Because your friends are always there for you

Around the world, it's still the same

Together you have more to gain

There's nothing that a friend won't do

As time went on, the friendship amongst the main cast was stronger than ever.

Rarity had Starlight model up for a new black dress she was working on just for her, and she was already liking it. And she also liked seeing the new black tuxedo suit Ono was currently trying out who too was already liking of how the fittings and measurements were all perfectly done all thanks to his very own keen sight.

Fluttershy and Beshte introduced Starlight to the former’s furry animals friends and the latter’s elephant friends. All of the critters along with the kids all took an instant liking to Starlight…given of how quick they were ready to make a new friend of the Lion and Pony Guard. And much like during her time travel meddling even then she still proved to be great with kids.

She even was able to practice her magic in being able to keep up with Rainbow Dash and Fuli during the land and aerial obstacle courses even managing to spare with both Twilight and Sunset on equal footing separately and together. In addition she helped Applejack buck her apples, assisted Pinkie Pie and Bunga in making her delicious cupcakes, and was able to bond over the castle’s reading section with Twilight Sparkle and Kyoga, with the former becoming one of her new best friends since reforming. It also helps that they have so much in common due their brief tenures to the dark side and being able to understand each other more than anyone else.

She also managed to bond with Rafiki and Makini over the spirtual ways of the Pride Lands, along with being able to try out painting their way, along with joining in on them during meditation.

One day, Starlight with Twilight’s company moved to pay a visit to her old village, where she encountered Double Diamond, Sugar Belle, Party Favor and Night Glider. There she sincerely apologized for her previous crimies against them and was ready to accept if they never forgave her. To her surprise, and delighted relief, they did forgive her.

Beshte:

Things may come and things may go

Fuli:

Some go fast and some go slow, it's how it goes

Kion:

No matter what the distance, we'll stay strong

With you in my heart, I will always belong

Everybody:

Just use your eyes

This time, no lies

And soon you'll find

Who you are inside!

Because your friends are always there for you

You don't have to be the same for friendship to be true

Because your friends are always there for you

Around the world, it's still the same

Together you have more to gain

There's nothing that a friend won't do

All around the world, friendships blossomed like never before. Makuu and his float were becoming progressively happier with their new lifestyle, especially now the dry season has finally ended for now. Antelopes and gazelles were able to get along swimmingly. Bupu was also moving to make steps into becoming friendly with the Lion and Pony Guard with the much of the Guard especially Fuli and Rainbow both willing to to do the same in return even apologizing to one and another for giving each other a hard time.

Trouble Shoes was happy with his new career as a rodeo clown, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Lion Guard fan club visited him every time there was a rodeo in town. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon became best friends with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and the Lion Guard fan club. Coco Pommel was as happy as could be with her new job especially with more and more ponies around to help her spread the inspiring heartfelt memories all across Manehattan, and even the griffon Gilda was making more and more friends back home.

Big Mac's bond with Apple Bloom was stronger than ever. The Hooffields and McColts friendship also grew stronger to the point they are all one big happy family together. And Coloratura, now naming herself Rara, had concerts sold out around all of Equestria even paying the Pride Lands another visit right in time for the big Kumbuka Celebration at Pride Rock. In addition, despite it being a sad occasion, Tamaa was given high regards and respects during his funeral held at Fluttershy's cottage to which many Pride Landers gathered for alongside the Lion and Pony Guard and the Royal Family.

Discord also became more sociable, making more and more friends outside of the Lion and Pony Guard even managing to bond with Timon and Pumbaa over their crazy shenanigans together with chaotic and bug-loving antics combine very well together.

In the human world, Sunset Shimmer has finally taken steps into returning to Canterlot High, ready to give the girls there another chance, all in her new outfit the Rarity there made for her. While not completely there, she is finally willing to go back as school is ready to start back up again. Especially with the upcoming Friendship Games right around the corner.

Everywhere you go

Friendship there will grow

When you find it, it's the key

Friends can change the world, you see

Everywhere you go

Friendship there will grow

When you find it, it's the key

Friends can change the world

(ah-ah)

Friends can change the world

(ah-ah)

Friends can change the world, you see

Because your friends are always there for you

(Always there for you!)

You don't have to be the same for friendship to be true

(To be true, yeah!)

Because your friends are always there for you

(You, ooh!)

Around the world, it's still the same

Together you have more to gain

There's nothing that a friend won't do

Everywhere you go

Friendship there will grow

When you find it, it's the key

Friends can change the world, you see

Everywhere you go

Friendship there will grow

When you find it, it's the key

Friends can change the world

(ah-ah)

Friends can change the world

(ah-ah)

Friends can change the world

You see!

Back inside the Outlands Volcano, Scar is now in his fiery form, as he has summoned another one of his acquaintances for a personal meeting. By then he has calmed down enough to speak to his subordinates with cordial composure but he is still brewing with frustration from his most recent failure.

“It has been a long time since I last saw you, my friend. I hope your recent travels have allowed you to fully recover…”

“It has…” A certain male unicorn’s voice returned.

“Then you have heard of the most recent struggles my army has had since losing the Pride Lands and Equestria to Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

“I have. It is most unfortunate.”

“Yes...that said...in light of these recent events, I have a new task for you, that is of course you’re up for it.”

The unicorn looked up with a dark smile with his burning red eyes showing that he is ready for whatever Scar has in mind. “Just say the word and I’ll do it.”

Scar smiled seeing that he is on board with what new plan he is in store. “Good. Because now it is time for another attack on the Crystal Empire, where your most lost awaited prize awaits…” Said prize in question is focused on a very certain Crystal Heart…

Author's Note

In the final part (which for all of Season 5 I will admit it took longer than I thought) after escaping Nightmare Moon and Midnight Sparkle, the Guard now finds themselves dealing with no last major hurdle before reaching out to Starlight one last time.

Another alternate future where it takes place in an area that the Lion Guard ventures to in the future in canon upon coming across alternate Kion once more. Only that these allies have a more self-serving goal in mind in contrast to the lion who was only interested (at first) in seeking shelter only to get off to a bad first impression that stuck through to the end. On the bright side, thanks to Twilight and the Lion Guard, things worked out for the better aside from the damage already done in this timeline.

After that, there was the matter of talking Starlight down which had the rest of the Lion Guard chiming in to get her to stop what she is doing which allowed them all to repair the timeline along with going back to the current and unaffected timeline. From there, thanks to some recently learned self-control (on Twilight's part) along with perfect timing on the rest of the Guard's part everyone managed to make it out of the Volcano alive along with saving the Royal Family in time.

As for Starlight, the added punishment given to her for her additional crimes, makes it clear while now created an an ally and friend, she is not going unpunished for her role in the matter. Then as for Scar himself, he is now plotting on a new plan after his latest one imploded right in front of his. One that involves a certain unicorn nobody has seen since the Season 4 finale heading into Season 6.

With all said and done, that is it for this year, with when the Friendship Games along with Season 6 come out. That depends of how much work I can get done so in other words, it'll be ready when it is ready so until then stay tuned and Happy Thanksgiving...

Episode 1: The Cutie Map Part One

Episode 1:

The Cutie Map Part One

After Scar’s defeat with the rest of his Legion of Doom imprisoned with only the hyenas and jackals banished back to the Outlands, things have been looking up for everyone.

The Pride Landers are all settling back into their homes, with many of them feeling very happy to back in the comforts of the Savannah full of lush terrain with plenty of grass, plants, and most importantly water for everyone to drink from the watering hole when needed.

Ponies from the Crystal Empire along with in Ponyville and Canterlot are also glad that there is peace in Equestria yet again. To them, it’s another sense of relief that the very magic flowing through the country is keeping them safe and with a lot of harmony around to keep it that way.

In the last month since the events that lead to the tyrannical lion’s reign of terror coming to an end, things have been looking since both parties have starting visiting each other’s worlds more often. The Pride Landers use the time they spend to explore of the new world without any feared repercussions now that the most fearsome devil is now locked away. The Equestrian ponies visited to help the Pride Landers recover from having been separated from their homeland along with having to take up temporary residence in Diamond Valley.

With their help along with the Lion and Pony Guard being there to assist with restoring order to their homes, the trust and the peace is really beginning to be restored throughout the two worlds. It got to the point Celestia and Simba were able to seek and earn forgiveness through many of their subjects who previously doubted them just when Scar took over and the Lion and Pony Guard had complete faith should trouble arise yet again.

After another morning of patrol along with checking up on seeing the recovery on everyone in both realms the Lion and Pony Guard went on over to the castle where Princess Twilight is now currently residing in after the Golden Oaks Library got blown to bits by Lord Tirek.

“Poa!” Beshte was the first to comment upon setting foot in the castle yet again. “This place is just amazing!”

“I know right!” Rainbow commented in agreement while literally star-struck at the sighting like it was only yesterday after helping reclaim Equestria. She moved to fly over to get a good look at the crystal chandelier so she can marvel at it again. “You can say that again!”

“This place is amazing!” The young female mandrill said as she walked inside and started admiring every little thing she sees while rapidly speaking as fast as Pinkie would. “I can’t believe this is actually Princess Twilight’s castle. I mean she is really the luckiest mare to even have around. Did I forget to mention I really love and look up to her? I mean not like as a girlfriend but a really great close friend like you and the others.”

Pinkie giggled before replying. “You did, silly. And speaking of our really special somepony, where is she, anyway?”

“And Bunga too?” Ono added after having noticed that he’s not here yet while turning to Kion. “Doesn’t he usually show by your side when we meet?”

“He does.” He answered with a nod before continuing. “He and Twilight are both on patrol together giving the place one last look to make sure everything’s all right before our meeting.”

“Twilight…”

“…and Bunga…”

“…on patrol together?”

Both Applejack and Fuli both questioned and finished together finding this a rare team up since they never seen just the two of them together.

“That’s what I said.” Kion asserted while looking confused of why this comes off as a surprise to them. “Is there something odd about that?”

“No, expect for the fact that they have never been ones to hang out being just the two of them.” Applejack honestly explained.

“And that this is the first we are hearing of this.” Fuli added.

“Common knowledge really.” Ono also added in agreement with them. “Kind of out of the left field if you ask me.”

“In what way?” Pinkie innocently asked finding it no problem before rambling her fast talking mouth. “Me and Twilight hang out at Sugarcube Corner many, many times since she came back. We even made the “Welcome Back” cake together, along with the “Oh my goodness, you survived getting mauled by Scar” cake, and the “Congratulations for defeating Scar” cake together.” To back up her claims she even showed the multiple pictures she took of them smiling along with them actually doing said baking together. “And through it all we were really having fun together much more so than ever!”

“Hmm…” Rarity thought before speaking her mind. “…I mean I quite understand this may seem odd considering this is the first time we’ve ever heard of this, but I think Pinkie is onto to something.”

“Really?” Pinkie’s ears perked up curiously.

“Of course, darling.” She confirmed before continuing. “Considering she has spent time with us since she first moved here, I think she’s taking the time to find more common ground with the rest of us and try to spend more time with them than what she originally did. It’s kind of like expanding her inner circle a little more.”

“Nothing wrong with that.” Beshte said in agreement with her assessment.

“It’s actually a very good idea for her to get to really know her friends more.” Fluttershy added her input on the manner. “Considering of how much she’s turned herself around into becoming the Princess of Friendship.”

“Exactly, Fluttershy!” Rarity smiled seeing that she is getting what she is saying. “So my guess that she has found something that she and Bunga can do to have fun together.”

“Like what?” Fuli curiously asked while trying to put the bonding time with both Kion’s father along with Pinkie’s bond with Bunga in light to figure out what exactly could the honey badger with many similarities with Pinkie Pie can bond with a studious and intelligent mare with great interest in reading with.

The answer to that question is while both Twilight and Bunga flying over head the Pride Lands Kingdom for any signs of trouble. So far, there weren’t any to threat the new and ongoing peace before the two had decided now was a good time to have some fun before meeting up with the rest of their friends at the alicorn’s new castle.

“Ready, Bunga?” She asked with an eager and determined smile.

“Let’s.” Bunga said while pounding his fists together ready for whatever they had in mind.

She then flies downwards towards the Outlands Volcano where Bunga leaps down and down towards the edge of the cliff where the lava streams flows downward. There Spike who was waiting for them to show up, leaped onto his metal shield at the same time Bunga floated down to the ground. Upon landing Spike tossed the shield onto the lava so Bunga could safely land before they both slid down the volcano together.

Just as they made their way down, Twilight followed suit by sliding down on a metal shield she had handy herself before moving to tail the two in front of her. “Just keep steering! You’re both doing great! I’m right behind you!”

The two then smirked at each other before going all at it trying to go down the volcano faster by sliding downwards like they are both at a recreational ski resort. They were both laughing and having the time of the life along with the alicorn tailing them.

Just then they spotted both Janja and his pack spotting them from around the corner. Before any of them could make a move on either one of them, Twilight casted her magic to send some lava to force them to back off unless they wanted to get burned.

“Out of the way, boys!” Twilight said to them in a teasing manner much to the hyena’s grumbling annoyance.

“Show-off.” He then shouted after her. “And that’s my line!”

Ignoring him, the three slid downwards where they find themselves going down a spiral ride due to the stream going around and around the volcano where they find that the hyenas and jackals have decided to pursue them on foot to try to catch them on the nearby foot path.

“Uh-oh, what to do?” Twilight asked them with a smile. Clearly, they have done this before so they all weren’t too worried when faced with the Outsiders trying to gain up on them.

So when Reirei and Goigoi tried to attack them when they crossed over they were all ready to react accordingly.

“We’ve got you now, intruder!”

“Guess again, Reirei!”

Both the lead jackal and dragon exchanged just Twilight swooped in and both Spike and Bunga leaped onto her wings to fly over their heads easily avoiding the sharp teeth from both husband and wife who both wound up crashing head first into the nearby rocks in front of them.

“Hot wings…” Goigoi said with said meat on bones that he is imagining floating over his head before passing out.

“I hate the Lion and Pony Guard.” Reirei grumbled in defeat.

Both Spike and Bunga and then dropped down on their shields after Twilight flew them over the following loop around the volcano.

With the end of the stream nearing, the two both got themselves ready to jump as they reached the dead end shaped like a ramp leading over towards the many pillars. Once they all reached it, they both jumped up just when Twilight swiftly scooped them up with her wings.

With great speed and adrenaline rushing through her body, Twilight moved to have both of them ride on her back before moving to make big leaps on each and every one of the pillars from the Outlands Volcano to Flat Ridge Rock. Once she reached the last pillar she gave herself a fire-enhanced boost so she can kick start her flying again. She then flew a few loop-de-loops before making her way towards the portal inside Pride Rock. Before entering the cave she pulled up one of the shields before performing a front flip onto just when she landed on the edge of Pride Rock before sliding her way downwards inside.

Both Simba and Nala having seen her coming, both easily stepped aside while shaking their heads finding it very amusing, yet impressed and pleased to see her smiling and having fun for the first time in a while.

Upon arriving nearby the Tree of Harmony, Twilight gave herself another boost up towards the sky before moving to descend down towards the Ponyville Castle where she managed to kick the doors open before performing another front flip along with both Spike and Bunga.

“Woo-hoo!” Twilight cheered.

“We did it!” Bunga exclaimed as they shared high-fives together.

“That was fun!” Spike exclaimed with his arms raised up in the air triumphantly.

Upon opening her eyes, she found the rest of the friends all staring at all wide-eyed at what they just saw and unable to process of what to make of this.

Quickly recomposing herself she moved to trot ahead towards the throne room, still smiling like it’s another day of a casual lifestyle. “Shall we?” She gestured towards said room before moving ahead like nothing happened.

“Of course.” Kion was the first to get over his brief shock before following after his princess partner with the rest of the Guard following suit seconds later.

“What kind of fun were you three having?” Rainbow curiously asked in a whisper to both Bunga and Spike.

“Something that you would love doing if you saw it yourself.” Spike replied still riding on the thrills of the last hour on his mind.

“Something along the lines of a winter skiing trip as a spy on a mission expect riding down on a stream of lava while being pursued by bad guys.” Bunga added with closed eyes and a proud walking stance.

“No way!” Rainbow could already start feeling eager and envious at the fun activity they along with Twilight have just introduced themselves to. “Better count me in the next time you three plan on doing it!”

“Will do!”

“The more the merrier!”

With the morning fun out of the way, now it is time to get down to business as everyone sat down on their respective throne chairs circling around the new table placed on the golden star center of the room. Like what everyone was thinking, it wasn’t too long ago of when the two worlds briefly torn apart and was almost ruled by an evil lion turned half alicorn and how everything that had happened led to this, a new castle, a new half alicorn prince, and a new era of peace all after one day of triumphant over evil.

With everyone standing near their seats, Twilight Sparkle stood at the center of the room with Kion standing beside as she paced in front of him speaking of her opening thoughts. "Let's go through this one more time."

Rainbow Dash sighed in annoyance as she sat on her throne to which her cutie mark on her chair glowed when it happened. "We've been over it like a million times, Twilight! We found all seven keys, you and Kion defeated Tirek and then later you would defeat Scar himself, Princesses Celestia and Luna, King Simba, and Queen Nala all defeated the changelings and Outsiders, Kyoga and Fuli helped Shining Armor and Princess Cadance defeat King Sombra, we defeated Janja, Reirei and the rest of their packs, and you got this sweet castle to share with Kion! End of story!"

"Yes, but why?"

“Why now?” Ono asked as he landed on his throne which had its mark image glow too

“Well considering we had to deal with the Sirens and the Evil Lions of the Past, along with me having to deal with court-ordered community service gives me little time to fully discuss it. That’s why.”

"I dunno, sugarcube." Applejack interjected as she sat down in her own throne, which also had her cutie mark image which also started to glow. "Maybe it's just your new house and there ain't nothin' more to it than that."

Rarity smiled in agreement as she sat on her own throne, and the image of her cutie mark glowed too. "I must say, speaking strictly on aesthetics, there really doesn't need to be more to it. It's all simply divine!"

“That’s true.” Fuli remarked having to come to agree with the others as well along with sitting down on her throne too with her mark on the chair glowing too. “We all know happened. Nothing more to discuss about further.”

Fluttershy was the next to sit down in her own throne, and the image of her cutie mark glowed as well. "I agree with Fuli. And Rarity. And Applejack. And Rainbow Dash. And Ono. And Beshte. And Bunga. And Kyoga. And Fuli. And Kion. Oh, and probably Spike."

With nothing else to say both Twilight and Kion both to sit in their thrones, both next to each other, and once they did, they both noticed the symbol of their cutie marks was glowing simultaneously. The others followed suit as the marks glowed even brighter than ever before.

The glows shined brightly as the colorful rays combined to create a rainbow shimmer that shined onto the central star of the room. The castle began to shake and rumble, beside their thrones, crystal rocks emerged and grew, reaching the center of the star that was in the center of the room.

“Whoa…”

“…What is happening?!”

Both Bunga and Ono exclaimed with the latter speaking out of feared uncertainty when the room was covered by a great big shining bright white light after the rocks reached the room’s center area. When that happened their along with Spike’s jaws dropped with what appeared before their very eyes…

At the very center stood a large round stone table, showcasing all of Equestria, from Canterlot, to Ponyville, to the Crystal Empire, like a huge real-life like map. There was even an image that showcased every part of the area within the Pride Lands Kingdom up to the Outlands territory itself. Everyone else was left stunned with open jaws and wide eyes at what appeared before their very eyes.

“Hevi Kabisa!” Kion gasped.

"Is that new?" Spike asked before being the first to smile. "I like it."

“Apparently…” Kyoga said as she is still observing the map itself while moving to close Ono’s still open jaw. “…and something to get used to since it shows every part of the two kingdoms.”

Ono floated over as he scanned every part of the map like he’s seen all of this before. “It does! It’s got all of Equestria, all of the Pride Lands, the Crystal Empire and even the Outlands here!”

Spike began waking over the map as he got a closer look at everything on it. ”And there's Apple Looza, Fillydelphia…"

Pinkie Pie spotted the rock farm where she grew up in, "Hi, Mom and Dad!" then, Spike unknowingly stomped onto the holographic image, causing the poor Pinkie Pie to tear up.

“It’s okay, Pinkie…” Beshte quickly comforted with a smile. “…it’s not real.” Pinkie smiled in relief hearing and seeing this.

Kion then noticed an image of the three portals. One inside the Pride Rock cave, One beside Pride Rock, and the other just outside of Diamond Valley. Curious, he tapped a claw on the portal and in an instant, the map shifted showing just the Equestria kingdom. Then he tapped it again which had the map shift again showing the Pride Lands kingdom. Then again, showing Diamond Valley, then the Crystal Empire, before tapping it again to show all of the kingdoms they seen in the past.

“Poa!”

“Wow!"

Both Beshte and Fuli remarked in amazement with the map capabilities as Kion worked his paws into fiddling with into levitating the far away kingdoms aside the air while keeping both the Pride Lands and Equestria kingdom still on the table.

Even though he’s only had his new powers since the day he became half alicorn, he was still learning well as evidenced by the impressed smile Twilight was giving him. “Impressive.”

“Thanks.”

“Ooh, look. That’s the Utamu tree.” Bunga gasped happily before Spike ended up stepping on that image too. “Aww.” He pouted sadly.

Suddenly, Kion felt an odd sensation coming from his right arm, nothing he isn’t used to given that’s how his Mark of the Guard first appeared. Unsure, if he did something that caused him to lose it had him look both sides to fully understand what was going on, when it was really his cutie mark and Mark of the Lion Guard both glowing and vibrating.

Twilight felt her cutie mark do the same all with the rest of the Mane Six and the Lion Guard. Holographic images of their marks began to float up into the air, with both Twilight and Kion’s at the center and all the rest circling around it. All twelve hovered over the map before stopping over a deserted area in Equestria near the desert. In order to get a better look, Twilight gently levitated Spike off of the table and back down beside her.

"But if this is Ponyville, why are our cutie marks over there?" Fluttershy asked, pointing at the area where the marks were currently located.

"I don't know." Twilight replied unsure herself. "But it seems like the map wants us to find out." She then smiled enthusiastically ready for the idea of a road trip. "Think about it; The Tree, the chest, this castle, and now the map. How can we not follow it?"

Rainbow Dash floated over to wehere the marks floated upon. "Y'know what? There's a ton of room for dangerous adventure along that route. Count me in!"

“Me too!” Bunga stated with both arms up. “Don’t think I’m not going with you!”

“I wouldn’t expect you not to turn it down.” Kion smiled in response before turning to the others. “How about the rest of you?”

“Sure, I’ll come.” Fuli said with a smile never one to pass down a team mission.

“Me too.” Beshte replied.

"Aw, shoot, I reckon you're right." Applejack responded with a simple shrug.

Ono looked unsure about the idea out of typical nervousness of what will happen next even when things are at peace with Scar locked away, but he obliged. “Of course.”

“Anything to keep you and Twilight out of trouble.” Kyoga said to which the latter blushed in response to that knowing exactly what she’s talking about.

"Well, I was planning on organizing my baking sheets, but okay!” Pinkie eagerly vouched her support.

Rarity sighed in agreement not excited compared to the rest of her friends. "Very well."

The rest of the group then looked upon Fluttershy the only one who has yet to give her answer. "Um, maybe I'll just stay here with Spike."

"Awesome!" The little dragon was now wearing a soda drinking hat and a foam finger on his right claw. "Me, Mtoto, and Big Mac have a huge weekend ahead of us talkin' hoofball, and... and trading hoofball cards, and arguing about hoofball stats…"

“Wait, wait, wait!” Fuli interrupted. “Mtoto and his guy friends are joining you for guys night? Aren’t they a little young for that?”

“It’ll be all right, Mtoto’s mom said it’s okay as long as we keep them out of trouble and make sure they go to bed on time.” Spike reassured.

"O-o-on second thought, m-maybe I'd better go with them." Fluttershy quickly said with Spike having spoken her case. "In case they need me."

"Looks like it's time for a road trip." Twilight said as she got up from her throne ready to lead the Lion and Pony for another exciting adventure and mission and for the first time since the whole war with Scar started…

…yet unaware of said fallen and imprisoned lion watching from his prison bubble with silent satisfaction that the small glimmers of hope have been placed in his favor.

Just then he heard a glimmer sounding ring tone coming from his prison bubble. With a few taps of his claws he magically answered the call to show a shadowed figure appearing on his screen.

“I’ve spread word all over Equestria. So now what?”

“Now, you meet and greet your newest guests and keep them busy and once you got them right where you want them, contact me. I’ll be waiting.”

“Got it. I won’t disappoint.”

Mysterious caller hung up and ended the transmission.

“Oh…” Scar said to himself still very pleased. “…I’m sure either way you can be sure you haven’t. And with the Lion and Pony Guard occupied, you have already helped me allowed me an opportunity to cut loose.” He chuckled to himself as he patiently awaits for his new employee’s call ready to spring on said opportunity he is looking for.

All while Zira and Chrysalis both watched on silently not even daring to say a word since their boss is having none of their bickering while imprisoned unsure how this is going to help them. While not locked in the loop, they had their faith in him knowing if he can figure out a way to get them out of this prison it’s him.

The next day, everyone all set out for their location via train with both Kion and Twilight carrying Beshte outside so they can fly alongside for the ride and the latter won’t have to go through the trouble of squeezing and getting stuck inside the train doors again.

At least this time with Kion being half-alicorn he gained some earth pony strength that allowed him to pull his friend’s weight and the fact that the Lion Guard’s Strongest saw this as an opportunity to do some sight-seeing in the open along with getting the feel of actually flying.

It was a sweat breaking process for the two leaders but it was manageable from their train station up to the last train station that’s closet to their actual destination.

“Phew!” Twilight wiped the sweat off of her forehead. “Talk about getting some excerise.”

“I’ll say.” Kion commented in agreement as he stopped to catch his breath.

“Sorry, guys.” Beshte sheepishly apologized.

“No, no.” Kion quickly shook his head from thinking otherwise. “It’s all right, I needed the practice in learning how to use my wings and build up my strength.”

“And you did a very good job.” Twilight complimented just when the others exited the train leaving everyone looking on at the village not too far away from here. “Keep it up and you’ll be flying fast and strong in no time.”

Kion smiled in response to her encouragement before turning back towards where their calling is just down the hill from where they were standing. “And now that we’re here, let’s get a move on.”

Rarity was the first to get a head start once they started walking after dusting off her mane once more. "Right. let's get down there and find the spa."

The unicorn walked on ahead until she was stopped by Twilight, who teleported in front of her with a hoof on her chest. "Wait. We don't know why the map sent us here. We shouldn't just walk right in. It could be dangerous.”

"Yes!" Rainbow cheered. She loved danger.

And so did Bunga. “I love dangerous things.”

“Then you better tone it down because this isn’t the Ponyville waterpark.” Fuli sternly quipped to the honey badger.

“But you don’t even like water and Ponyville doesn’t have a waterpark.”

“Not yet.” Pinkie said in a sing-song tone much to Fuli’s eye-rolling irritation.

“Sarcasm, Pinkie Pie. You too, Bunga.” She muttered before dropping it for now.

“Twilight’s right.” Kyoga said to the two. “We don’t know what and who is down there already. For all we know somebody might be expecting us.”

“No worries, Kyoga.” Pinkie happily assured before stepping forward with a serious expression on her face. “Stay behind me, everybody! I'm on it!"

"Careful, Pinkie!" Applejack called after she as she stood at the very tip of the ledge. She then rolled down the hill, completely unharmed, and stopped behind a rock, looking around. She was in total spy mode. She silently gestured the others to follow her. She then hid underneath various rocks, while still being cautious.

“Ono?” Kion asked of him who nodded before flying up ahead so he can scan the place himself.

“Affirmative.”

When the rest of the Guard managed to catch up to Pinkie she crawled out from under a very large boulder though struggled it lift it up a bit leading to Beshte to quickly assist her. As the hippo gave her a hoof, she gestured the others to move along before the pony herself dragged the large rock along with her, despite its size. From there, they were all able to get a better look at the place up close.

Up close, the place looked like an ordinary and seemingly peaceful village they had seen. Three were earth ponies, unicorns and Pegasus ponies all around, yet not one of them stood out amongst one another and they were all widely smiling. Every single one of them.

"This is where the map sent us?” Rainbow questioned feeling disappointed. “It looks like the most boring place in Equestria."

“Talk about disappointing.” Bunga said in agreement as he looks on disgusted with what they are seeing. “It’s just a normal town with normal ponies."

“Nothing wrong with that.” Beshte commented trying think positively about it yet noticed the dull coats the ponies had compared to their skin and fur color. “Although it could use a little living up with color.”

"I think it's lovely." Fluttershy added.

However, one of them strongly disagreed. “I don't like it. I don't like it one bit." Pinkie Pie narrowed her eyes at the town ponies, "I know smiles. And those smiles? They're just not right."

“Strangely so.” Fuli commented as he flew down to regroup with everyone as they all look on at every smiling pony. “You would think one would take a break from all of the smiling like they for some reason are forced into doing so.”

The others took a look at the smiles everypony was showing and came to find it pretty strange itself. They were smiling all the time not one seemed natural yet forced. One would think that it would truly hurt from having to smile constantly. In addition, all of the male ponies had the same identical hairstyle, cut, neat with two separate bangs while all of the females shared the same bangs and wore their manes in either the form of braids, buns or straight.

“Forget the smiles because that’s not the only thing rather off around here…” Ono commented as he flew down to regroup with the others.

“…Look at the cutie marks." Twilight finished as she pointed a hoof towards the markings on the ponies' flanks. Each and every single pony had the exact same cutie mark. A dull grey colored equal sign.

"Okay, that's weird." Rainbow Dash said with increasing bewilderment.

“Quite.” Kyoga agreed. “And quite some strange magic at works here.”

“I know.” Twilight said as she shares the lioness’s suspicion. “A strange village with the same cutie mark. How can that be?”

"I bet there's some sort of horrific monster behind it." Rainbow Dash threw in with locked eyes at the village ponies.

"What makes you say that?" Fuli asked anticipating her response already. “Cause it would exciting?”

“Exactly!” Bunga cheerfully replied.

"'Cause fighting a horrific monster would be super-awesome!" Rainbow added while Fuli looks on clearly unamused as she shook her head.

“Of course it would.”

"I reckon we just ought to head into town and talk to some locals, find out what's goin' on." Applejack suggested.

“Sounds good to me.” Kion liked the idea before leading the way to town.

Rainbow was the first to go on ahead to the village as she sped ahead. "Then let's go!"

The others followed suit while Pinkie Pie kept her suspicious eyes on the ponies. "Those smiles are bad news."

“I hear you, Pinkie.” Kyoga said as she and Twilight walked beside her. “Something weird is going on here.”

“Couldn’t have said it any better.” Twilight agreed as she too feels some mastermind might be actually waiting for them to come here. Little does she realize that said pony watching from the shadows and curtains of the front window is eyeing her and her friends with locked interest upon executing it.

Once they arrived, all of the town ponies looked upon their new visitors, causing The Lion and Pony Guard to feel completely unsettled immediately. Everyone was instantly giving them that wide smile without even blinking once. There’s clearly something going on around here and it was something that the alicorn’s gut can feel deep down inside even as they were given friendly welcomes.

"Welcome!"

Every pony said to their visitors.

“Uh…” Kion wasn’t quite sure how to respond to this but still did with. “…Thank you. Thank you everypony.”

Others like Fuli and Kyoga tilted their heads backwards finding it a little disturbing, while Beshte and Ono didn’t know what to say in response, and Bunga moved closer to his best friends Kion and Beshte so he’ll feel safer being here.

"This must be the most pleasant place in Equestria!" Fluttershy said, being the only member of the team who sees the bright side to all of this.

"Welcome!" A female Pegasus greeted when she flew up to her. Her coat was dark grayish-blue coat, a white mane with light gray streaks, styled much like the rest of the female ponies, including the similar bangs over her forehead, but had a loose mane in contrast to the others.

"My name is Night Glider."

"Nice to meet you, Night Glider. I'm Fluttershy."

The two pleasantly exchanged in one of the more sincere greetings thus far.

Rainbow Dash however groaned in frustration with what she is seeing so far. "Ugh. Thanks a lot, map." She said under her breath. She was hoping for adventure, not a trip to visit a town full of creepy smiles in a perfect utopia-like environment.

“Really great job in bringing us all the way out her for nothing.” Bunga likewise muttered to himself just when a male unicorn approached the team.

His coat was a light grey (yet duller compared to the main cast’s), and his pale moderate dark blue mane styled with a simple bang. He wore a brown, worn out cloak tied together with a rope.

"Welcome! Pardon my forwardness, but are you an Alicorn?" He asked the purple mare.

Twilight smiled in response. "Of course. If I wasn’t that, what would I be?"

“Probably a mix between a lion and unicorn like your friend here.” The male unicorn replied gesturing to her winged partner who sheepishly smiled and kept his wings folded feeling embarrassed himself.

“Right…” She said seeing that he got her there. “…but yes, I am an Alicorn, and so is my friend here. Well, technically half lion, half alicorn.” She gestured to herself and Kion. “Prince Kion himself and I’m Princess Twilight.”

“Not only that, but she’s the Princess of Friendship!" Applejack added gesturing to Twilight first then Kion. “And he’s the Prince of Friendship.”

"Well, you've certainly come to the right place for friendship." The unicorn said, with the last word said creepily to which induced a shudder in the alicorn’s spine just when another stallion appeared next to him. He was a white coated pony from head to hoof with an identical mane-style and blue eyes.

"What brings you to town?" he asked.

"We're not entirely sure other than paying this town a little visit to see what’s it like." Kion confessed.

“I see. Well, all are welcome here in our little village. My name is Double Diamond."

The country pony moved to greet him. "Howdy, Double Diamond. I'm Applejack, and this here's Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Bunga, Beshte, Fuli, Kyoga, and Ono."

Double Diamond then studied the ponies, particularly their flanks, "And you all have your own unique cutie marks." He said as he gazed upon them to which Kion placed a paw on his cheek along with using his tail to cover the one on his shoulder in embarrassment along with blushing too.

Twilight spoke to the two ponies, hoping to find an answer to all of the strangeness going on around here. "If you don't mind, has there been any sort of... trouble here, lately?"

"Trouble? Why, I don't think we've ever had trouble in our little village." Double Diamond innocently replied.

“Are you sure?” Kion asked not convinced yet treading lightly before speaking confidently and sounding intrigued. “Don’t suppose you could tell us more about these unique cutie marks? I’ve never seen anything quite like them.

"We'd me more than happy to tell you." Double Diamond happily replied. "Perhaps you would like to speak to our founder and leader, Starlight Glimmer."

“Great! Thanks!”

"Follow us, please."

The team smiled seeing this is actually going in the direction they want it to go while following after them.

“Good job.” Twilight whispered proudly.

"Thanks.” Kion thought nothing of it.

"I wish everypony in Equestria was as friendly as these ponies are." Fluttershy commented.

“Me too.” Beshte agreed.

But Pinkie Pie still disagreed. "I've got my eye on them. Something's rotten in... whatever the name of this village is that we're in right now!"

“You said it sister.” Bunga agreed alongside her. “Something is just plain stinky here.”

“Says the honey badger stinking up a storm.” Ono retorted while flying ahead to avoid being behind another one of his silent storms from the rear. As soon as he got fresh air, his face stopped appearing to be green. “But seriously though, that’s very rude of you two, even if your claims are correct.”

“Of course I’m correct.” Pinkie snarled while snagging the egret up to her eyes. “Just look at those faces!” She forced him to look at them.

“Okay.” Ono replied while barely able to get that single word out due to the grip the pink pony was holding him in before slipping out unharmed. “Sorry.”

Double Diamond and Party Favor led their guests to the lone house that stood at the opposite end of town. Both knocked on the door, once it was opened the two stallions entered the house, with the Lion and Pony Guard following after them inside.

"Starlight, we have some new visitors." Double Diamond announced.

Once inside, they team took a look around. The room itself was a simple brown color, with brown and gray stones, and images of the equal cutie mark on the walls. This equal sign further triggered increased suspicion inside Twilight’s mind feeling that something is amiss here as they look on in the direction of where the pony they’re about is meet is, right behind the door on the opposite side of the room with said hoof-steps approaching from the other side of the door.

"Be ready to fight." Rainbow whispered to both Bunga and Applejack, "We don't know what's gonna come through that door."

Bunga took up a fighting stance. “Ready.”

The door opened and out stepped a young unicorn mare. She had blue eyes, a bright pink coat, a purple mane with light blue streaks in it, styled in a loosely done high long ponytail, with a matching colored and equally styled tail. Even though she had a bright coat much like the visitors, she still shared the equal sign cutie mark that the rest of the ponies in town had.

"Welcome! I'm so pleased to have you here."

Rainbow Dash and Bunga both groaned in frustration, expecting a real monster, not an innocent unicorn.

"This is Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Kyoga, Fuli, Ono, Beshte, Bunga, Twilight Sparkle and Kion."

The prince and princess both smiled at the young unicorn with the latter’s more forced and humble with her’s as she took notice of their wings. "Forgive my bluntness, but I'm assuming it's Princess Twilight Sparkle and Prince Kion? We don't get many Alicorns around here. Or lions, tigers, bears, or any animals in that regard."

"Yes, but "Twilight" and "Kion" is fine." Twilight politely replied with her suspicious emotions held to her chest just feeling more alarmed internally just looking at her.

“Nice to meet you Starlight.” Kion greeted with a relaxed smile and offered paw to shake her hoof with. “Name sure gives a glimmer of magic to it.”

Starlight chuckled as she shook his paw. “Oh, you are such a kidder, sparkling on that pun charm of yours. Sounds like your princess has taught you well.” Both prince and princess briefly turned to each other in confusion in response. “So…” She then pressed forward with the current topic at hoof. “…how did you and your comrades hear of our little village?"

"It's kind of a long story." Twilight simply replied. "Something we just found on a map."

"Technically, it's a Tree-chest-castle-map!" Pinkie Pie pointed out with a smile, before dropping back down toglaring at Starlight and sliding away from view.

But regardless Starlight shrugged it off. "Well, however you found us, we're happy to have you! We're happy to have anypony who wants to experience true friendship for the first time."

Applejack arched an eyebrow in response. "Say what?"

So did Fuli. “True friendship?”

"Oh, indeed. That's what's so unique about our village, you see." Starlight explained as she moved to adjust the image of an equal sign on the wall, "Around here, we don't flaunt our special talents because we don't have any special talents to flaunt."

“What?!” Bunga gasped. “No special talents!”

"Nope." Starlight shook her head still smiling proudly.

“Aw, dung beetles.” Bunga sadly hung his head getting the hint “No.” means none at all. Not even special bug eating or stinking talents.

"Is that why you all have those cutie marks?" Twilight asked while eyeing the mark on her flank.

Starlight briefly looked back with a small and unnoticeable frown sensing that this alicorn princess is as smart as she thought. Perhaps maybe a little too smart. But nevertheless, she can deal with her later. "Perhaps it would be easier to understand if I gave you a tour of the village!" She then offered as resumed smiling before leading the Guard back outside.

Starlight walked out the door with a marching drum was heard from behind. She likewise marched out with all of the town ponies following her.

“Heads high, ponies! Marching proud! All together now! Every one of you! No pony left behind!" She instructed everyone before singing.

“Life is so grand in our town

We're always filled with cheer

We never have to look around

To know that we're all here.”

The ponies marched and sang around the Lion and Pony Guard who all looked on warily especially Twilight, Kion, Kyoga, and Pinkie Pie.

“In our town, in our town

We don't have to wait

To find out that our destiny

Is just to emulate.”

The citizens sang together

“Let's see those big, happy smiles!" Starlight once more repeated.

Life is a smile in our town

Our cutie marks the same

Because we do not separate

Ourselves by more than name.”

Two male Pegasus ponies sang to Rainbow Dash and Ono, much to their discomfort.

“In our town, in our town

We dare not compete

Winning only breeds the worst

Ego-filled conceit.”

The citizens all continued singing.

"You see? Now everypony wins!" Starlight enthusiastically told everyone.

“Life is a joy in our town

We're all equal here

No one is superior

And no one shakes in fear.

In our town, in our town

We work as a team

You can't have a nightmare

If you never dream.”

Amongst the unconvinced party, Fluttershy and even Beshte were the only ones who were okay with all of this, believing the ponies were genuinely happy as Starlight Glimmer sang to the Pony Guard.

“Other ponies argue

Do you ever wonder why?

When you think your talent's special

You don't see eye-to-eye.”

As she sang that part of the song, she smiled at Twilight who still felt really unnerved by the way she was looking at her like she has sinister intent against her.

“There's just too many differences

That lead to disarray

But when you learn to act as one

It's like a holiday.”

Starlight continued to sing.

“In our town, in our town

We don't complicate.”

The citizens sang as Fluttershy nodded her head to the music, but Pinkie Pie glared her while shaking her head against it much to her sadden disappointment.

“When you learn to simplify

Life is oh, so great

Join in our utopia

Come out of the dark

Banded by equality

By our cutie mark!”

Two rows of ponies smiled as the Pegasus ponies flew up with an equal banner as Starlight stood at the center.

Rainbow Dash burst out laughing at the very idea. "You're kidding, right? Give up our cutie marks? No way!"

"Rainbow Dash, don't be so rude." Fluttershy chastised. "I don't think we should judge them. They all seem perfectly happy with their choice."

"Don't believe their smiles, Fluttershy." Pinkie Pie once more repeated in disgust.

"I'm sorry, I guess we're still a little confused by all of this." Twilight apologetically replied on behalf of the team.

"We have no judgements here in our village. Each of us was confused once as well, blinded by the false promise of our cutie marks." Starlight assured even though they both aware deep down it’s not completely believable.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Is she for real?" Rainbow asked in disbelief, only to be glared at by Twilight to be quiet before speaking to Starlight.

“Sorry about that.” She apologized before continuing. “When we were sent here to this village we assumed it was to help in some way, but it seems you all don’t need any help.”

Still smiling she approached the wary pony who has yet to piece everything together. “Have you considered perhaps that you might have been sent here so that we could help you?” Starlight asked as she placed a hoof on her chest.

“No.” She honestly replied while masking the unease she is truthfully feeling. “With all things considered why would we?”

“You never know.” She answered which left it feeling somewhat vaguely amiss to her. “After all, nopony has ever come to our village and wanted to leave. Why should you be any different? Please, enjoy our little corner of Equestria. We're all quite fond of it. No doubt you will be as well." She said the last part while flashing a brief smirk in Twilight’s direction.

“We’ll see about that.” She politely responded. “After all, we do have the choice in the matter.”

“Of course.” She accepted it none of the less before turning to the pony who introduced them to her. “ Double Diamond, please help our guests with whatever they might need."

"Of course." the white pony happily smiled at the request as Starlight Glimmer walked away, smiling to herself.

"Well, this will certainly provide a boost to our little community. When the rest of Equestria sees that a princess gave up her cutie mark to join us, they'll finally understand what we're trying to accomplish."

Unbeknownst to her, Twilight’s widen her eyes from behind indicating that she heard the unicorn’s every secretive word and has just figured it out from here what is truly going on.

“Twilight?” Kion asked being the first to notice this. “You okay?”

“Hmm-mmm.” She gulped while forcing herself smile. “I’ll explain later. But for now…” She gestured and led everyone to follow after Double Diamond after recomposing herself.

The Lion and Pony Guard received more “friendly” Welcome’s from the town ponies which still didn't make them feel welcome in the slightest as they followed after the purple alicorn trying to keep her emotions and thoughts to her chest until it was safe to talk.

“So…” Fuli spoke up hoping to talk about something about the strangeness around here. “…is it just me or there is something really weird going on around here?”

“You’re not the only one, Fuli.” Ono assured while shifting his eyes around nervously at the creepy smiles and stares from everypony. “I mean ponies having equal signs as opposed to the ones every other pony including Kion and Kyoga have. How is that natural?”

“It’s not!” Pinkie whisper-hushed as she vehemently and assertively stated her mindset once more.

“I know.” Kyoga agreed. “A cutie mark is a representation of a pony and lion’s unique talent’s and skill, there’s just no way that’s possible for more than one pony to have.”

“Exactly!” Twilight stated. “How is it possible to…” She is suddenly interrupted when Rarity gasped in shock.

"What in the name of Simba is that?!" she pointed to a shop that sold worn, old brown, and boring cloaks, the same one Party Favor wore as well.

"Welcome! Care to sample some local fashion? We've got cloaks this month!" The shopkeeper kindly greeted and offered.

Rarity did nothing to hide her disgust, gagging at the sight before masking it out being polite for the sake of manners. "Wha— Ooh, er, perhaps another time, good sir, thank you." The gang all moved to sit at nearby wooden tables. "No wonder nopony's wearing anything!" Rarity whispered to Applejack.

“Really, girls!” Fluttershy chided her friends. “They may do things a bit differently than we're used to, but that's no reason to be rude."

"No, the reason to be rude is that they all keep staring at us!" Rainbow retorted in a hushed tone while the others ponies observed them. All while maintaining their forced wide smiles.

“Very rude if you ask me.” Bunga whispered to Rainbow while looking aside with disdain much like Pinkie throughout their visit here so far.

“You took the words right out of my mouth, Bunga.” Fuli commented before turning to Fluttershy with a soften expression before trying to be sympathetic about it. “And Fluttershy…I understand that you’re very accepting of them no matter what and it’s not that we dislike anyone different from us. It’s just there is something really strange and suspicious going on around here. I mean, how would you feel if everypony had the same cutie mark as yours, as in each and every one of them had the exact cutie mark you have right now?”

“Probably a little uncomfortable, but still accepting regardless.” She answered while seeing her point yet firm on her stance in the matter. “Besides, they could be very helpful if we asked them nicely about it.”

“Need something?" Double Diamond asked from the opposite table across from the Guard as he is being tended to be the waitress at that moment.

Twilight politely waved back. "Uh, no! We're good!" She then spoke in a hushed tone to her friends, "Fluttershy's right. If we're going to get to the bottom of how these ponies lost their cutie marks, we're going to need their help."

“But how?” Kion asked. “As long as they keep staring at us, it seems that they don’t want us to figure out the truth about Starlight and whatever she is hiding from us.”

Truthfully, Twilight pieced everything together and wanted to tell everyone but she couldn’t risk telling them right now and here out in the open while everyone was looking right at her. So she had to let everyone else do the talking hoping that maybe she can find a way to private disclose her valuable thoughts.

"If you ask me I think we ran off to the end of Equestria for nothin'?" Applejack commented feeling mighty annoyed herself.

"If we were at the end of Equestria, we'd be standing on a giant 'A'!" Pinkie giggled. "Get it?"

Bunga giggled too. “I did!”

Rarity hoof palmed herself while Ono and Fuli groaned in disgust.

“Seriously?”

“Really?”

The cheetah and egret both asked blankly and unamused.

"Oh, please, Miss Pie! This is hardly the time for jokes!" Rarity chastised.

“Yeah!” Ono stated firmly. “All we know is we went all the way here to find a peaceful resolution to everypony’s problem and what do we find?!” He then slammed his wings on the table. “A lot of nothing!”

Beshte moved his head up close to Ono taking pity on his understandable frustration. “Well , we’re here now. And we might as well keep trying while we’re here.” Hearing this Ono calm down after seeing that he is speaking out frustration.

“What else have we got to lose?” Kyoga added with a shrug.

"Nothing other than tossing aside two bits that'll get you a cup of cider." Applejack replied missing the fact that was a rhetorical question.

The pony waitress who was standing right in front them during this moved to pipe up. "Is this a bad time?" She asked. Said pony is a unicorn mare with a gray pink coat, a dark grey magenta mane styled into a bun and rose colored eyes.

"We shouldn't be bickering like this in front of our new friends." Fluttershy scolded. "Really, you two are almost as bad as Rainbow Dash!"

"Don't drag me into this!" Rainbow retorted.

“Or me!”

“And me! We’re not the ones making strange pixie dust that smells like a skunk’s butt!” While still smiling the older ponies began covering the ears of their young ones to avoid having them here what they just said. “Heh, heh…” Bunga chuckled realizing he said that out loud. “…everything’s all good. Excuse my language and carry on!” He waved to the crowd with a big smile before hushing his tone. “That being said, you got anything to eat around here. I could sure use some food right about now.”

“Of course.” The pony smiled but couldn’t help but wonder and ask... “If I may ask, is your friendship ending?"

"Are you crazy?!" Pinkie Pie happily replied like she asked a joke. "We'd never let a disagreement get in the way of food!" She licked her lips eager for food.

"O-kay, well, my name is Sugar Belle." The pony waitress levitated a pencil and notepad, "What can I bring you? We have muffins…" Everyone turned eyes amongst each other through this awkward silence indicating that this is the only item on the menu.

"Then I guess we'll take a dozen muffins." Twilight said after getting the idea.

"Make that two dozen!" Pinkie eagerly said while waving her hoof, receiving eye rolls and annoyed glares from her friends. "What? I'm hungry!"

Kion continued with the subject at paw and hoof in a hushed tone, "Come on, guys, girls. The map sent us here for a reason, and if there is a problem here then we should be here to fix it, no matter what."

"I guess you're right." Applejack relented with a smile. "And the sooner we figure out what's really goin' on, the sooner we can go home." Her eyes widened once the tray of muffins they ordered were placed on the table. And without saying much, they did not look very appetizing.

"Forgive me for overhearing," Sugar Belle piped in once more. ",but just a moment ago you were disagreeing, and now it sounds like you're... agreeing."

The friends all looked at Sugar Belle like she asked a rather silly question.

“Yes…” Ono suspiciously replied unsure of what else to say to avoid implicating themselves. “…so…?”

"Well, you had such differing opinions – and cutie marks. Not to mention you're ponies, lions, a cheetah, a hippo, honey badger, and bird."

"We have differing opinions all the time, darling." Rarity kindly explained.

"But you look like you're friends." Sugar Belle pointed out, still a tad confused.

"We are friends." Twilight reassured. "A simple disagreement wouldn't change that."

"Besides, we've been through way too much together to let anything get in the way of our bonds." Kion said kindly.

However, Double Diamond happened to have a listening ear on their conversation, sparking Sugar Belle’s nervousness as both Pinkie and Bunga helped themselves to the provided muffins. "I'm sorry, I'm just having a hard time understanding. Different talents lead to different opinions, which lead to bitterness and misery. So... why aren't you bitter and…?"

"Blech!" Pinkie Pie and Bunga spat out and nearly choked on the muffins, which tasted really bad. But they realized what they had just did, they forced themselves to smile and pretend to like the treats.

“Oops, did I say that loud? Yum!” Bunga pretended to munch on the treat itself.

"Mmmm… good…" Pinkie chimed in with a forced smile.

Sugar Belle was understanding and not offended about it. "It's all right. I know I'm not a very good baker. At least, I know I'm not any better than anypony else in the village." Her eyes shifted to behind her as Double Diamond eyed her suspiciously and she forced a smile at the customers, "Well, I... hope you enjoy our little village!"

As she walked back into the store, Pinkie and Bunga dropped the act and resumed cleaning their mouths from the horrible taste they just experienced. But before doing so she quickly whispered without smiling for once with an expression of frantic worry in its place.

"Come inside before you go! Meet me downstairs!" She resumed smiling in Double Diamond's direction before walking back inside for good.

"Okay, that was weird too." Rainbow first spoke her thoughts of what had just transpired.

“Quite weird...” Kyoga stated and whispered to Kion and Twilight. “…But it’s just the key we need if we’re going to get to crack this case.”

“But first…” Kion added as she levitated the muffins and separate plates for everyone at the table. “We’re going need to all sit here and eat these muffins and act normal. I think we're being watched." Their eyes shifted to the other ponies, still not taking their eyes off of them.

"You think?" Fuli sarcastically asked as if he is just figuring this out.

"No, no…!" Twilight interjected in a hush. "He means somepony here doesn't want us talking to Sugar Belle." She nudged her head to Double Diamond’s direction who is currently eating his muffin.

Applejack rubbed her chin in thought before thinking of something to avoid arising further suspicion. "I got an idea. But you gotta eat all of them muffins, Pinkie."

"Me?! Why me?!" The pink pony whined as she pulled on her mane against the idea before turning to Bunga. "Can’t we just have Bunga do it? I mean he is the one who ate muffins out of the trash can with Spike once!"

“Come on, Pinkie! Leave me out of this!” Bunga protested.

"You got a stronger stomach than any of us, and that filly in there might be our best chance at findin' out what the hay is goin' on round here." Applejack insisted to Pinkie before turning to Bunga wanting him to help out. “And come on Bunga, if you could eat the sickening garbage I accidentally made once, you can do it twice!”

“But…” Bunga started before giving up with a sigh. “…oh all right!” He moved to start eating those muffins alongside one his best pony friends. “…it’s been nice knowing you all!”

After a fair amount of time, both Pinkie and Bunga had managed to eat all of the muffins with Pinkie sporting a green nauseous face and a bloated belly as a result from eating that much food and Bunga made a sickening face after ingesting the last of his fair share of the plate.

"I can't believe you ate all our muffins, Pinkie Pie!" Applejack said out loud sounding pretty pleased to appease everypony.

Ono was the next to continue. “Guess we have to go inside and get some more.”

Once inside, the group made their way down the stairs to see Sugar Belle.

"Nice work, Pinkie." Twilight complimented.

“You got guts, Bunga.” Kion added as he patted his friend on the back for a job well done. After doing so, his stomach rumbled to which Kion quickly tilted his body downwards so that his rear end is directed at the open door to allow a massive fart out. “Strong guts.”

Unfortunately, Pinkie wasn’t lucky to avoid the stinky blast since she had just rolled down the stairs, landing on the ground, still feeling sick and upset that she had to endure that. "I've accidentally eaten cardboard tastier than that…" She then dropped face first onto the ground after passing out.

Kion moved to fan the pony to get her to quickly wake back up. “It’s okay Pinkie, you can breathe now…” He then conjured a cup of water for her to drink from. “…here.”

She gladly took and ingested the provided water still in Kion’s magical grasp. “Thank you.” Though the half lion /alicorn hybrid ended up dropping and breaking the glass after accidentally letting go of it.

“Oops.”

“No it’s my bad. I didn’t quite get a good grip on my magic enough.”

With that aside, Twilight called out for the waitress pony. “Hello? Sugar Belle?"

"Thank you for coming!" Said pony emerged from the shadows, wearing the same signature smile everypony sported across town.

"Why did you want us to come down here?"

"So nopony could see what's about to happen."

From the shadows of the basement, two more ponies emerged. Party Favor and Night Glider smiled widely as they always did and the three slowly approached the group. They suspected it was a trap, Twilight the most suspicious readied her horn to fight, until...

"Are you really the Princess of Friendship?" Party Favor asked with admiration.

"Do you know Princess Celestia?" Night Glider asked, sharing the same admiration too.

The others lowered their defenses once they realized the ponies meant no harm and that this isn’t the trap even though the alicorn’s gut feeling tells her it’s something else.

Sugar Belle moved to admire Pinkie's mark, "I love your cutie mark!"

Party Favor looked at Kion’s mark, "Yours is a lion roaring. Are you the Lion Guard’s Fiercest?"

“Actually, yes.” Kion answered with an awkward smile.

Night Glider hovered over Kyoga. "Wow! I never knew a lion could have magic along with being half pony! And why is your cutie mark on your cheek?"

"How come the rest of the Lion Guatd doesn't have cutie marks?" Sugar Belle asked. "Does this mean you don't have any talents?"

“Not exactly true…” Beshte honestly replied. “…Since I’m the Lion Guard’s Strongest, strength is my specialty!” He demonstrated it by getting the rest of the Guard to leap onto his back so he can walk around like it’s still no big deal greatly impressing the three ponies.

"Incredible…"

"Cool!"

“Unbelievable!”

"What about you?” Party Favor asked Fuli. “Do you have any special talents?

“Of course.” She smugly smiled as she instantly sprinted up and down the stairs multiple times for a good sixty seconds. “Any idea now what it is?”

“Nope!” He turned to the others and after recalling word spread out figured out that the honey badger is the Bravest, the egret is the Keenest of Sight, and Kyoga is the Wisest. From the way Bunga ate all those muffins, Ono’s sharp eyes, and Kyoga having great common sense, he didn’t need more to confirm who they are.

"How can you be friends with different cutie marks?" Night Glider asked Pinkie and Rarity who both felt uncomfortable and speechless in response. "Don't you end up hating each other?"

Sugar Belle also took a good look at Fluttershy's cutie mark with her hooves while frightening the girl in response due to her moving to actually look and touch it up close. "Oh, look at this one! This one's great too! I'd love to have my special talent back even just for a day! Make something besides those disgusting muffins…" Sugar Belle lowered her ears in sadness as she couldn’t remember what her old cutie mark looked like. She missed being able to make and bake special new treats and pastries to when she was truly happy.

"So what's stopping you?" Rainbow asked, "Go get your cutie marks back."

“Can’t be that hard.” Bunga added.

"Daydreaming is one thing," Party Favor shook his head. "But you mean actually having it put back on? That seems extreme."

“Um, hello?” Bunga said to them really dumbfounded with dealing with these ponies. “You’re talking to a honey badger who surfed his way from the top of a lava-filled volcano. And this alicorn princess here, joined in on the ride.”

The three ponies were amazed to hear that though the purple pony looked aside with lowered ears as she blushed and sported a nervous smile. “Anyways and seriously…” She said to quickly change the subject before they could get into that. “…what’s really keeping you from pursing to get them back?

"I'm not sure Starlight would like that." Sugar Belle admitted. "She wants us all to be happy in our sameness."

Kion felt the need to ask if that’s even possible. “How do you take somepony's cutie mark anyway?"

Night Glider smiled as she explained, "The cutie unmarking is a beautiful experience! Starlight uses the Staff of Equality to magically take them away and replace them with these." She and the other two moved to show them their identical cutie marks.

"But nopony should keep you from your cutie mark." Twilight pointed out. "It represents such an essential part of who you are."

"Oh, we're not kept from them.” Night Glider quickly assured. “They're in the vault up in the caves. We can visit them any time we like to remind us of the heartache of a life with special talents."

“Hmm…” Twilight thought as she scratched her chin deep in thought about the idea. “…You think you can remember where exactly the caves are?” She hopefully asked wanting to play it safe. “That way I can be there and back in a flash before anypony could ever notice.”

“Well…” Party Favor hesitated before speaking her thoughts. “…I’m not sure…” He spoke unsure whether or not to go against his leader in that regard.

"I understand. Never a pony to disobey orders.” She said before displaying a visual of her cutie mark. “And for that I completely respect that. After all, it’s rare nowadays that I see good friends who are willing to be so modest and honest with me with their problems. In fact, if I had a golden apple with me right now…” She ended up poofing one up with her magic. “…I’d probably give you one as a sign of our friendship.” Party Hoof and the other ponies felt touched by her generous gesture as she shined the apple on her hoof until she could see her own reflection in it.

It was there the three could not say no to a kind and generous offer like that. “Maybe…maybe having our cutie marks back wouldn't be so bad. Even if it's just for a little bit." Party Favor spoke on behalf of the trio.

The Lion and Pony Guard smiled hearing this seeing that they are cooperating more and more with every second they spend secretly here.

“I promise you all, you’ll be much happier once we get your cutie marks back, the you’ll see of how right we are.” Twilight assured with a confident smile as she turned to prepare to focus her magic on the cutie mark’s true location. “Wait here.” She told them as she briefly turned back.

But when tilted her head forward she found herself face to face with Starlight Glimmer herself looking very stern and unsatisfied with her right now as multiple ponies are waiting outside to follow her example.

“While you face punishment before attempted conspiracy with fellow happy ponies here in this village.”

“Ah! Hapana!” Ono yelped as he ducked behind Fluttershy to avoid seeing the wrath of their leader as everyone else is startled and alarmed by her sudden appearance.

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed in shock with this wild accusation thrown against her. “What do mean?! I didn’t do anything like that!”

But Starlight had magical proof on hoof. “Oh, no…” She displayed everything she had just did to persuade the trio into giving into her request including the golden apple trick.

“So?” Twilight attempted to keep composed in the face of everything turning against her. “It’s called heart to heart talk and asking a friend for a favor. Not manipulating them if that’s what you’re implying.”

“It is what I’m implying at something you are clearly guilty of. Guilty as charged!” Starlight stated with great vindication. “Just like everything you’ve done to Ponyville, Midnight Sparkle!” Twilight’s heart felt stung when that memory resurfaced in her mind as said attack she personally led on that dark day of infamy but still wasn’t about to let the emotions seep through the cracks in her heart. “That’s right! I know all about you! The Princess of Darkness, The fearless dragon for the lion who nearly conquered all of Equestria! The fallen princess who willingly betrayed her allies to help her enemies only to turn on them as soon as it wasn’t your best interest!” She then smirked as she senses the crowd is siding with her even with mixed confusion amongst the kindest ponies in the group conversing with them behind her back. “Typical villain through and through, unpredictable, cunning, devious, and even treacherous like any other mastermind like your former master, Scar…” The crowd gasped in horror at the mention of his name. “…the coup of the Pride Lands, the Crystal Empire, Diamond Valley, attempted murder of your friends, and especially your B.B.B.F.F. Shining Armor.” She glared directly right in Twilight’s face as she further incriminates the former villain of her past crimes. “Oh, you have no idea how much trouble you are in now that everyone here knows the truth about you. You even have the Mark of Evil to prove it. But face it, it was inevitable, you can’t hide from who you really are, Twilight Sparkle. And now that you are here you’ve asked for judgement. And I pass it now!” Kion gasped seeing that she has turned the whole village against her with one swift speech and reveal of the mare’s dark side as many ponies demand to hear the verdict. “Exile!”

“No!” Kion exclaimed in horror as Twilight finds himself faced with ponies gathered in rows ready to chase and throw her out of town. “That’s not fair! You don’t know who you’re really dealing with!”

Not One of Us

Music starts at 0:28

“You’re right. I don’t.” Starlight merely replied in response still firm with her statement as she proudly smirks at the now disgraced alicorn princess.

Kion tried to move to further protest this decision only to be blocked by the three ponies who were here first. “No! Twilight!”

“It’ll be okay, Kion.” She calmly assured as she kept her composure. “I’ll be all right. Just stick to the mission!”

She then faced herself with two ponies attempting to advance on her with their horns pointed in her direction. Unwilling to hurt them to further confirm all of the bad stuff Starlight said about her she instead magically teleports herself out of the room.

Next thing Kyoga knows before she could do anything to protest the decision she finds herself being cornered by the two ponies that tried to corner Twilight. Getting the message that she too is banished for being a witch to society for her own magical abilities she was left no choice but to teleport on out of here too leaving Kion further angered by this sudden switch in the unicorn’s behavior towards them as she walked outside to ensure that the two exiled magical figures are both good for good.

As Twilight flees while flying out of town, she is finding herself pelted with bland muffins, rocks, dirt, crumbled up paper balls, and sticks as she is forced out in shame. For added measure as Starlight keeps that smug smirk fixated in Twilight’s direction she had the Pegasus ponies dump buckets water and dirt on her head as she makes her way towards the outskirts of town. Upon reaching the edge of town she winds up stopping in front of a small pool of water just before the heights of the nearby mountains.

She looked back and could see from afar, Starlight’s still smirking evilly for chasing her out as the many ponies have surrounded the entrance of town watching on with disdain similarity to how she looked at the group of friends after the whole wedding incident.

Kion was finally able to fly his way out of the building but was blocked off by the Pegasus ponies to forbid him from going after her while the others shake their heads in disgust toward’s the alicorn’s direction.

Twilight could tell what they truly think of her now and can only blink sadly seeing how quick word can spread out and change everypony’s opinion in a flash before looking down at her own reflection dejected. Once more she saw Scar’s reflection after the water rippled once more. She shook her head before splashing the reflection still asserting to herself they are not the same in that regard. She raced her way up the mountain with her head drooped down feeling the sting of rejection once more like what happened back at home. After giving one last look at the village for now, she moved to continue striding away in shame before flying away out of sight with tears coming out of her eyes as she does so.

“Now…” Starlight said resuming being her friendly self as she turned back to Kion’s direction. “…I understand you’re wanting to learn more about where we stash cutie marks around here?”

“Yes.” He growled still angered by what they put her through.

“Would you like to see it?”

He thought about it, and still determined to make things right here he gave his answer. “Let’s do it!”

“Great!” She smiled before leading the way on over to the mountains in the opposite side of town.

Starlight Glimmer personally lead the Lion and Pony Guard up to the hills towards to where the cave was located all while Double Diamond stood behind them, still smiling but continue to keeping an eye on them.

“I apologize for what you all had to see earlier, but I’m sure you’ll understand why I did what I had to do.” Starlight said cheerfully once more. “I'm delighted you're interested in our cutie mark vault and we hope someday every pony in Equestria will make a pilgrimage here to our little village to have theirs removed too, and our message of perfectly equal friendship can finally spread across the land and who knows maybe even the Pride Lands someday."

“You do realize we are now walking into a trap here aren’t we?” Rainbow whispered to the group.

“Yep.” Kion nodded with a serious glare directed in Starlight’s direction. “We are. And we’re going to be ready for that!”

“You mean…?”

“Yes, Rainbow. Be ready!”

“Got it!” Rainbow was able to keep her enthusiasm of fighting bottled up after what happened to Twilight.

“Can do!” Bunga said seriously too while pounding his knuckles together.

"And now just through here!" Starlight led the group into a dark and spooky looking cave. Ono gulped nervously as they walked inside, their bodies now in shadow once they entered. "Behold! Our cutie mark vault!"

The entire group gasped in shock! Standing before them was a tall glass-like container filled with all kinds of cutie mark symbols locked inside little square holes. The container was illuminated the cave with a blue aura and in front of it stood what appeared to be some kind of wooden staff standing on a stone pedestal. Bunga's jaw dropped at the sight and Kion felt he would be sick. Seeing all of these cutie marks away from their owners was almost as repulsive as seeing a disembodied head or leg put on display. And just as the three ponies described, several of the marks had the elements circling around them.

"Wow! I've never seen anything like it!" Kion said with clear disdain directed at Starlight as she moved to levitate the staff with her magic. “And here is the Staff of Equality. It was one of the great mage Meadowbrook's nine enchanted items. We are incredibly fortunate to have it here."

“Right sure.” Ono said unconvinced due to forehand knowledge from past reading time with Twilight.

"This is the tool that allows us to free ourselves from our marks! I'm curious – how did the subject of the vault come up?"

Before Pinkie could accidentally blurt out the truth, Fuli quickly covered her mouth without taking her furious eyes on her. “Just a personal theory of how cutie marks are truly stashed away if it’s possible to remind them of how much they wouldn’t need them. In other words, considering of how removing cutie marks is possible, surely there had to be a way to keep them close if others are allowed to get a glimpse of them from time to time.”

Starlight gasped, still maintaining her cheerful demeanor, "Really? Well, it seems you inspire all sorts of free thinking…don't you?" She narrowed her eyes when she said the last part of her sentence.

“Well now I won’t say that.” Rarity laughed nervously before shaking it off to keep trying to talk her down. “And we certainly didn't intend to cause any disruptions to your charming little—"

"Good. Let's just make sure of that, shall we?"

As Rarity turned her back, she nearly stumbled upon Double Diamond, and more of the happy smiling ponies emerged from the shadows, surrounding the team.

“Sure.” Kion accepted as Starlight springs her trap on them. “Hope you’re prepared to find out what the Lion and Pony Guard is capable of doing when faced with an army of enemies.”

“Bring it.” She challenged with narrowed eyes as Kion retracted his claws ready to charge at her.

With fire powering his speed, he was able to leap upon the unicorn and knock the staff out of her hooves.

“Get the staff!” Kion shouted at his friends who all moved to do so.

“NO!” She shouted before head-butting Kion and then used her magic to force the lion off of her before seizing the staff just when Fuli snatched it off of the ground. “Uh, uh, uh, Fuli. You’re time is up!”

She was suddenly stiff and still while being levitated in mid air. She felt something tug on her shoulder, causing her to scream in pain. Her Mark of the Guard was forcibly stripped from her body. Despite her efforts, she ended up succumbing to the staff’s powers and ending up having her mark literally ripped right off of her. Her mark glowed yellow, black, and red as it was levitated to the staff and Starlight launched it the vault leaving the cheetah falling to the ground in defeat. She now had an equal sign mark in place on her left shoulder.

She smiled wickedly at her triumph just when she got tackled again by an enraged Kion who decided he was not holding back. He fiercely snarled and tumbled with her as he bared his teeth right at her. For a moment it seemed like he had her overwhelmed before the latter mustered all of her strength, she moved to use her horn into using the staff so she can catch him in her grasp while distracted. Once that happened, Kion was stripped of his Mark of the Guard and his cutie mark. He cried out in pain as it was ripped off of him before dropping to the ground after losing the energy and feeling in his paws. With that she levitated the two marks into the vault with a victorious smile.

Just then she saw Bunga attempted to sneak up behind her to steal the staff from him. “Don’t even try to toy with me, Bunga.” She said while yanking the staff away before effortlessly stripping of his mark too like a sticker stuck on its mark. She suddenly found Ono snatched it away just when she her eyes were fixated on Beshte next who was trying to charge at her. “Things are unravelling fast now, Ono.” She laughed as said mark was removed in the unraveling fashion that was still painful for him to endure.

“Yeouch!” He screamed before dropping to the ground in pain.

The same rays hit Beshte and the rest of the Mane Six. They grunted in pain as their cutie marks were removed one by one and placed within the vault. The Mane Six found that their flanks now had the same equal signs and the same pain colors. The same went for the Lion Guard and Alicorn prince left stripped of what was bestowed upon them in the most painful way possible.

"Aw. I don't blame you for what you tried to do here today." Starlight said with false pity to the defeated team. "You've spent your whole lives thinking those marks are a good thing."

“Give them back!” Kion angrily demanded still unable to stand along with the others and not only he tried to speak further only to find his voice had grown very weak as a result of losing his power and abilities including his voice.

“Well now you can spend the rest of your lives here with us!” Starlight smugly taunted as she placed the staff away in its proper resting place. “And we'll teach you just how much better life can be without your cutie marks!"

All while both Twilight and Kyoga can only watch from their own visual magic with the former very determined more than ever to go back and save her friends from the torturous fate the unicorn has in store for them.

Author's Note

Before I begin, I'd like to say it's good to be back publishing episodes for this series, something I'd like to say I've done quite a great job in putting this all together.

Anyways, here to kick of this season we see things are really starting to look up for everyone after Scar's defeat, in fact everyone is in better spirits as the two worlds begin to live together as one even more now.

In fact, the growing magic in friendship has grown strong to the point a new map has been activated inside the Castle of Friendship. A map that showed both worlds of the many places they've been to together. In addition, they all get to go on their first group friendship mission. A mission that leads them on over to a certain village where everyone is all sporting the same equal cutie mark.

A simple friendship mission one would think...right? Well in the wise words of Big Macintosh. "Nope!" Thanks to their leader, Starlight Glimmer who is quick to charm her ponies into turning against Twilight and Kyoga along with luring the rest of the Guard into a trap when everything was piecing together for them.

With two lucky not to have their cutie marks and powers taken away, they now have to figure out how to expose Starlight, solve the friendship mission with the rest of the team while saving them. But how?

Episode 6: Appleoosa's Most Wanted

Episode 6:

Appleoosa’s Most Wanted

On a bright and sunny day cheerful ponies were gathered in the country of Appleloosa. Everyone is all gathered for the annual Appleoosa rodeo to which the Pony Guard’s Strongest is planning on competing.

As always the town is crowded with wild western and rodeo attire. Cowboy hats, bandanas, even country boots and belt buckles. In addition, the town’s fair was all set up. Wild western land, tents with fun games and prizes all around and everything.

Amongst the crowd were a familiar trio of fillies along with a quint squad of Pride Lander kids standing and getting a look at their surroundings.

"Aren't you glad y'all came with me to see Applejack compete in the Appleloosa rodeo?" Apple Bloom asked her friends.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo smiled in agreement and so did the other children.

“Not as glad as we are that you invited us.” Mtoto happily returned.

"Totally!" Shauku stated while looking on amazed at the place. "I've never been to a real rodeo before!"

“Me neither!” Gumba stated in agreement already liking what this country had to offer. “Look at this place, it’s like something you’d see in a Wild West movie.”

“Which one? Once Upon a Time in the West?” He asked rather teasingly.

“No.”

“Wild Wild West?”

“No, that movie’s terrible.”

“Says the critics.”

The two frowned at each other before dropping the argument all together.

“Anyways…” Scootaloo said more focused on what they can accomplish here. “… This place is a cutie mark gold mine!" She pointed her hoof towards said activities they were currently holding. "There's barrel racing, roping contests, rodeo clowning, steeplechase!"

"If we can get into some of these events, we could all three walk off the train back in Ponyville with brand spankin' new cutie marks!" Apple Bloom also added rather excitably at the idea.

Scootaloo looked upon her blank flank, already dreaming of the idea herself. "Wouldn't a barrel look good here?".

"I want a lasso!" Apple Bloom said while looking at her own flank.

Sweetie Belle however didn’t share the excitement as her friends. "I don't know... All these events look a little, well, dangerous."

“She’s right, guys.” Kwato agreed.

“Are you sure this is worth pursuing?” Kambuni asked.

"No risk, no reward." Apple Bloom proudly asserted otherwise.

“And since the Lion Guard also received cutie marks, maybe this might a good place to start.” Shauku pointed out.

“That’s right.” Gumba said before looking around to see what would work for them. “Speaking of which I spy with little eye a big long rope!”

Gumba got in on the fun. “I spy with my little eye a group of funny clowns!”

The two then turned to Mtoto wanting him to get in on the fun. “Okay…” He agreed upon seeing the “Come on, please play.” look they were giving him. “…I spy with my little eye…the steeplechase and…” His eyes widen in surprise. “…uh-oh.”

“Uh-oh, what?”

Just then they heard familiar voices call out to them.

“Mtoto, kids, there you all are!” Kion spoke to them with feeling relieved nothing bad happened to them just when Fuli appeared by his side. “Why did you sneak off like that?!”

“Sorry Kion…” Mtoto spoke on behalf of the group. “…we just got really excited and wanting to see our first Appleoosa rodeo.”

“Understandable...” Fuli accepted that response but not without stern words herself. “…but we talked about this, if you want to be able to see your big sister Applejack in action at the rodeo, you need to be on your best behavior. We promised your parents along with your big sisters we’d look after you while we’re away.”

“I know, I know…” Apple Bloom said rather defeated and bad for her sister’s injuries. “…I just wish we could be doing something fun while we wait.”

“And what would we have done to pass the time? Chasing an outlaw?” Kwato asked rather rhetorically.

Just then they heard a pony calling out to the audience. A country pony who goes by the name of Sheriff Silverstar.

“Alright, everypony, listen up! We need a big presence at this here rodeo, so make yourself plenty seen! I want that low-down varmint to know we mean business!” He announced to the crowd much to the little zebra’s dismay.

“I was kidding!”

Sweetie Belle whispered to her friends wondering how dangerous this outlaw is. "I hope nothing bad is going on."

Apple Bloom, on the contrary is actually thrilled about the idea. "A cutie mark-apalooza and a low-down varmint? This is shapin' up to be the most excitin' rodeo ever!"

“Yeah…no!” Fuli shook her head quick to disapprove of them pursing an outlaw. “Clearly that’s not going to happen.”

“Why not?” Both Shauku and Gumba whined.

“It’s too dangerous!” Kion seriously and sharply stated. “And I’m not going to risk your safety by letting you go after someone who could really hurt you if you’re not careful.”

The two pouted in response even when Fuli spoke gently to the children so that they understand why they shouldn’t even touch upon it any further with a twenty-foot pole. “I’m afraid Kion’s right, if something were to happen to you all, your parents and sisters would never forgive us. And none of you want that, do you?”

“No…” They all said admittedly.

“Good.” She then said while ushering them in the opposite direction while she and Kion move towards the sheriff pony so they can help scout the town. “Now, go on back to both Braeburn and Applejack before they get worried sick, okay.”

“Okay…”

After the two groups split apart, a shadowy figure hid behind a stack of hay, leaving behind a single horseshoe print on the dirt as he walked away.

Whoever this outlaw was…he’s around and about and clearly has something on his mind.

Meanwhile, Applejack was at the top of her game in preparing for the upcoming competition. She’s currently at it with her training in the upcoming rodeo's hay bale stacking event. Her hind legs kicked a bay of hale so hard that it went flying with such speed and power that only someone with super strength could accomplish. The bale landed flawlessly onto the very top of the stack, as tall as six wagons stacked on top of each other, while her cousin Braeburn cheered her on, and the Guard's Keenest of Sight was there to oversee her progress.

"Woo-hoo! Yee-haw! That's my cousin! Go, Applejack, go!"

"Come on. You got it."

Originally, he was supposed to compete in this event, but after injuring himself, he unfortunately couldn’t. To her luck, Applejack was happy enough to take his place and Braeburn himself was equally happy likewise that she could. And Ono himself, was quick to pounce on the opportunity to redeem himself from the last rodeo Applejack competed in. Well at least, coach Applejack to victory, that is. And so far everything was shaping up great.

"Yes!" Ono clapped his wings together upon seeing their success.

Applejack leaped down from the stack, before approaching her cousin while whipping away the sweat from her forehead. "Whew! It's been a dog's age since I got to compete especially. All the rodeos 'round Ponyville being closed down for some reason."

"Well, I guess havin' injured kinfolk in Appleloosa sure paid off then, huh, cuz?"

"Just doin' my best to fill your horseshoes, Braeburn."

"Keep tossin' like that and I'll be out of a job!" he said. Applejack brohoofed his injured leg, making him wince. "Ow, ow!"

"Ooh, sorry.” She said after quickly realizing her mistake…again. “Say, where's my sister and the other kids?"

Braeburn's eyes widened in realization, "Uh-oh. Gee, uh, I guess I got so caught up watchin' you that I—"

"You said you'd keep an eye on those kids!" Applejack quickly scolded as Ono quickly flew up to spot them out. "How am I supposed to focus on practicin' if you're not gonna—"

Ono quickly spoke up. "No need to worry anymore. They're here and on their way back!"

"There they are! Heh, right where I left 'em…"

The Crusaders and the Pride Landers appeared behind Applejack. Scootaloo had bought a cactus-like hat during the walk back over, which was pretty big for her. Mtoto also had a cowboy hat which was more of a sheriff’s like hat, while Shauku, Gumba, and Sweetie Belle all had caramel apples, the rest of the kids had flag souvenirs worn as antennas on their heads. But even though they were all fine, Applejack was still eying her cousin with a disapproving glare.

"Aw, don't be mad!" He then began to fake cry dramatically, "Owwwwch! My poor leg! Hurts so much…!" He gave her the big eyes and pouty lips, which made the children giggle though Applejack was not even close to being amused.

"Y'all can't go runnin' off like that, y'hear?" Applejack chastised, "Backstage at a rodeo ain't no kind of playground! And I promised your parents along with Kion and Fuli I would keep an eye on you all."

“Come on…” Shauku tried to play it off as no big idea. “…we were playing it safe.”

“Yeah..” Gumba agreed. “…and we’re all here in one piece so no harm no foul.”

Applejack still looked on disapprovingly in response.

"But you kids all still didn't something you weren't supposed to be doing." The kids had nothing say in response because truthfully they really can't say otherwise.

"Sorry, Applejack." Her little sister spoke on behalf of the group sincerely, "We won't wander off again." Scootaloo then elbowed her in the leg, reminding her to ask something. "But, uh, speakin' of the rodeo... what would you say about me and the Crusaders maybe competin' in one teensy-weensy little event or three?"

"And can we compete too?" Shauku also asked hopefully.

But before Applejack could respond, Braeburn suddenly cried, "Look out!"

"Hapana!" Ono cried out before swiftly flying away. "Watch your heads! It's a hayfire! Literally!"

The tall stack of hay began to loose its balance and tumble down to the ground…with the children in its way.

Applejack quickly pushed the children out of harm’s way in the nick of time when the hay stacks fell over in their direction, causing the dust from the dirt to rise up. The children coughed once the dust cleared up and Applejack ran to check on them.

"Are you okay?!" the children all nodded in yes, "What the hay just happened?"

"You kids alright?" Braeburn asked with concern. Like with Applejack they nodded and said yes.

Both Kion and Fuli having witnessed this came running up to the scene.

“Are you okay?!”

“What happened?!”

The kids all replied with “uh-huh.” And “we’re okay.”.

Just then the two members of the Lion Guard noticed something on the ground, the mark of a very large horseshoe print.

“Huh?”

“What is it?”

Sheriff Silverstar approached the crime scene and his eyes became stern and serious like he just managed to find an incriminating clue and his voice lowered dramatically. "Sugar and salt licks! Well, I'll be…"

"But it is!" Ono stated while examining the mark itself.

Applejack approached the four. "What is it, Sheriff?" She asked as she looked down at the hoofprint, along with Braeburn.

"Is it him?"

"Ain't no doubt. It's Trouble Shoes."

At the mention of the name, a western harmonica riff played...

…courtesy of Shakku and Gumba.

Upon being noticed, the two nervously chuckled before putting them away and stepping aside.

The children all shared the same curious and confused expressions and had the the same question on their minds. Who is this Trouble Shoes? And why was he such a threat?

With word of the guy’s appearance, Sheriff Silverstar had his deputies along with the Lion Guard’s Fiercest, Keenest of Sight, and Fastest standing by his side on the wooden front porch of his office home before facing an inquiring and anxious crowd of ponies.

"Is it true? Is Trouble Shoes here?"

"You ain't gonna shut down the rodeo, are ya?!"

"All right now, I called for a meetin', not a mob scene." The sheriff started while gesturing to the the two stallions to lower down their pitchfork and torch…much to their dismay. "Now, as many of you know, the Equestria rodeo circuit has been plagued by the dirty dealin's of a notorious outlaw."

"He knocked barrels every which way at the Hoof City rodeo!" A female pony wearing a red dress and a green sunhat complained. "Nearly crushed my Aunt Bae Mare!"

A male townspony wearing a brown vest and a dark blue hat had this to say. "That's nothin'! He sabotaged the steer pen at Pinto Creek rodeo, settin' off such a stampede they cancelled the whole dadgum thing!"

Sheriff SIlverstar moved to calm the crowd down once more. "Now, now, it's true we had an incident this mornin' at our own Appleloosa rodeo. Hay bale stack came down right near on top of three little fillies and five innocent kids from the Pride Lands!" The crowd looked on in sympathy for the children. The sheriff then gestured to Kion, Ono, and Fuli. "Thanks to both the Lion Guard’s Fastest, Fiercest, and Keenest of Sight, they and I examined them hoof-prints and, uh... it was Trouble Shoes, all right." The crowd gasped in horror at the news they hoped they didn't have to hear. "I reckon I oughta cancel this rodeo like all the others done. But dag-hoof it, this has gone far enough! We'll double the patrols! This rodeo will go on! Appleloosa ain't gonna be intimidated!" All the ponies cheered with great pride as the sheriff lead his best deteticves on over to investigate and hunt them Trouble Shoes, determined not to let the ongoing threat ruin anything else.

The crowd dispersed, happy to know their rodeo was still going to be continue.

"Glad that's settled." Apple Bloom said happily. "So, uh, Applejack, about me and my pals competin' in the rodeo…"

In Braeburns's country cottage, Applejack had the girls pack their things into their saddled bags while Kion and Fuli had the children get their backpacks.

“Aw come on! Please! Not home! Not home!”

“Anything but that! Come on! That’s not fair!”

Both Shauku and Gumba pleadingly protested and whined.

"Now, quit yer bellyachin'." Applejack said having none of their complaining. "We can't have y'all around here with some outlaw on the loose. Aw, maybe I oughta call it quits and go home too."

Braeburn was quick to say otherwise. "No, you can't! This rodeo is important to Appleloosa! And with you in there, we got a real shot at winnin'!"

"But we can't risk the safety of the kids." Kion pointed out.

"Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on em for ya." Before any of them could protest, he shoved all three of them out the door, "Come on, now, you head on back to practice and lookin' for clues, don't worry none about these kids. I won't let 'em outta my sight."

He immediately slammed the door before the others could say another word and then placed on several locks on the doors before dragging a chair up so he can sit on it and keep his eyes on the children.

"Ya hear? Y'all ain't leavin' my sight!"

“No problem…” Shauku and Gumba both said rather calmly yet smugly on the contrary to the uncertain looks from the others knowing that they are going to be watched 24/7 now…

…at least until nighttime fell and Braeburn fell asleep on the job...again.

“Okay, let’s roll.” The two nodded at each other before tag-teaming to open the window up. By Shaku being given a boost up towards the window with Gumba coming up with a hairpin, they were able to open the window no problem.

“Guys, what are you doing?” Kwato asked in a whisper. "I thought we said we weren't going to wander off again."

“Wandering? No.” Shauku shook his head.

“Going off to help find a bandit named Trouble Shoes. Yes.” Gumba smiled.

“But it’s still sneaking off!” Kambuni argued in a protest while following after them along with Kwato and Mtoto.

The latter trying to make his point across wrapped his trunk around his two friends trying to plant the idea of disobeying their guardians in their heads. “And we promised we wouldn’t go looking for trouble! How do you think Bunga managed to get himself into these messes from time to time?”

“Maybe we just really need to play it safe.

“Yeah, like watching each other’s backs and play to our advantage.”

Mtoto conceded briefly before firmly standing by his gut feeling…"I know but still…I don't think we should. It’s not our case."

"That’s true.” Sweetie Belle agreed. "What if he's dangerous?"

Apple Bloom was quick to counter that claim. “Maybe to one, but to the future Lion and Pony Guard, should be doable.”

“And we’d be doing the local law enforcement a favor.” Gumba added thus giving his friend enough reasons to take him on.

“Great then it’s settled.” Both Shakku and Gumba went on the window, followed by both Apple Bloom and Scootaloo. Mtoto, Sweetie, and the other girls share the same conflicted expressions. They didn’t want to do it, but at the same time felt compelled given that their friends decided to pursue them, so they did.

"But isn't he a dangerous criminal?" Sweetie asked once they were out of the house.

"We only need to find him. We don't need to capture him." Apple Bloom pointed out. "The sheriff can handle that!" she, Shauku, Gumba, all leaped up onto the fence.

"And once he's in jail, we'll be competing!" Scootaloo added. "And then it's…"

"Cutie mark city!" the two ponies hoof pumped and they along with the two eager boys leaped off from the fence. Kwato and Kambuni were able to duck their heads to go through the face, while Mtoto and Sweetie both had a bit of trouble. Mainly the former had to do a little squeezing while the latter stumbling while hopping the fence and ended up falling into the ground.

“Worst idea ever.” Kwato whispered to reluctant group of friends tailing the others ahead.

“No kidding.” Kambuni agreed without hesitation before calling out to them trying to get them to reconsider. “I really think we should go back. The others will find out we’re gone once they come checking up on us."

Mtoto agreed. “Yeah. If we do this and they find out they’ll tell Kion who will tell our parents and big sisters. And we all know what happens from there don’t we?”

His boy buddies grinned at him in response. “Come on future leader of the Lion Guard. Think about what Beshte would say at the idea of you taking on a wanted pony, under your leadership.

“Haven’t you thought to yourself what it’s like to be praised for good leadership?” His partner further tempted. “You know you want to!”

Mtoto really felt torn here, he always plays fair when it comes to his parents and guardians…but then again, they did hold their own against Janja’s clan and managed to rescue their friend’s pets and got a glimpse of the Crystal Empire while they were at it. From what they heard, this pony is nowhere near dangerous as Twilight at all. How hard could it be?

“Okay. But if anybody asks, you two put me up to it.”

Unfortunately for him, the two were rather smug and cocky about it.

"I don’t think so!"

“Yeah, leaders always own up to their actions when caught in the act!”

“What…no…I…” It was there Mtoto realizing he was tricked and can only groan and follow after his friends.

Sometime later in the night, an owl was heard on the branches of the trees while the children continued searching for the outlaw. Judging from how it was getting darker by the minute, they were digging and trotting deep in the forest most likely due to the trees hiding the starry night sky. Apple Bloom stopped when she spotted something in front of her.

"It's another giant hoof print!"

"That means were getting close.” Shauku commented with a smile.

“And we’re on his trail.” Gumba also smiled eager that they are now getting somewhere.

“Yeah, great. Um…quick question…” Kwato nervously and fearfully spoke before yelling out. “Where the hay are we?!”

Just then lightning cracked, causing Scootaloo to hide behind Kambuni's legs who likewise ducked her head into the ground as the rain started to pour on them.

"Uh, maybe we should head back and try again later." Scootaloo suggested rather frighten.

"No way!” Shauku shook his head firmly against it. “We already picked up his trail we can’t go back now!"

“Besides Scootaloo…” Gumba spoke up. “…you willingly braved the danger thus far so you’re in whether you like it or not.”

Apple Bloom followed after them when they both led the way but the others were reluctant…until another lightning strike happened. Sweetie Belle and Kambuni both released a high-pitched squeal before running after the others. The rain began to fall down harder, making the hoofprints all muddy and hard to find.

"Come on, we've gone far enough!" Sweetie Belle once again protested. "It's time to go back!"

"The rain is only getting worse!" Scootaloo agreed. "Let's come back tomorrow."

Apple Bloom lowered her ears sadly, her big pink bow already down and soggy, "Maybe y'all are right." She turned to both Shaku and Gumba who both seem to come to agree too after finding no more footprints to look for.

“Okay.”

“Fine.”

“So…”

“…how do we get back?"

They both asked rather confused much to Kwato and Kambuni’s frustration.

“You mean you don't know?!"

“Are you kidding me?!”

Lightning cracked once more, frightening the children as they huddled together for protection.

They were completely lost and exposed to the dangerous elements.

Meanwhile back near Appleoosa…

Kion, Ono, and Fuli have both finished up for the night and have decided to check up on the kids.

“Kids…” He knocked on the door. “…are you all okay?”

“I think definitely.” Fuli shuddered with the sudden and impatient urge to want to get inside. “Now you think you can open the door faster so I can get out of this rain?!”

"What is he doing?!" Ono also impatiently wondered while flying around the house trying to find the cowgirl's cousin but has a hard time spotting him through the windows before flying inside the chimney.

After what seemed to be a good two minutes of waiting along with hearing Ono screaming to get the pony asleep inside awake...

"HEY!"

...the door finally opened to which Fuli was very quick to get inside to get dry at the very split second the door fully opened.

“Oh hey, Fuli, Ono, and Kion…” Braeburn greeted with a nervous smile. “How’s the search going."

“Our search got called off for the night due to the rain...along with Fuli’s insistence on not wanting to get soaked any further.” Kion said as they both shook their fur dry while Ono shuddered the rain off his feathers. “So we came back here to settle in and check up on the kids.”

“Speaking of which…” Fuli looked around and sniffed the place and couldn’t quite catch their scents. “Where are the kids?" She then realized before subduing her tone. “Oh, no. Please tell you didn’t.”

Braeburn chuckled nervously before he reluctantly told them the truth to them just when Ono scanned the entire place inside and out. Predictably he got what any worried big sibling and parent guardian would react.

“WHAT?!”

"HAPANA!"

After informing an equally horrified Applejack, the five soaking wet figures all rushed over to the sheriff’s house where he is currently playing go fish with his deputies.

"Sheriff Silverstar! You gotta help! My sister's gone! And her friends too!"

"We've searched and searched, but no sign of 'em anywhere!" said Braeburn.

"It must've been Trouble Shoes!"

"Now, now, hold on there." The Sheriff urged them to calm down and think things through. "Trouble Shoes done a lot of bad things in his day, but nothin' like that!"

"You really wanna take that chance?"

The sheriff scratched his chin in response before coming to see her point. Outlaws are capable of doing unpredictable and at times very dangerous things to get what they want. He truthfully doesn’t think that Trouble Shoes would even do something like taking the children, but he wasn't about to take that chance. He leaped out of his chair and galloped ahead with his deputies and the others right behind in, heading out into the pouring rain to find the kids and Trouble Shoes.

"Come on, y'all! Let's ride!"

Elsewhere inside the forest, with Scootaloo and Mtoto leading the way, the children continued to try and find a way back, but the forest was so large and dark it was really hard to tell if they were close back home or not.

"You sure about this, Scootaloo?" Sweetie asked.

"I thought I was, but now I'm not."

“Smooth…”

“Really smooth…”

The two boys complained before being greeted with “Shut up.” glares from the others.

“At least we’re trying not to get lost, unlike our two brave explorers who wanted to tackle this case from the start.” Mtoto retorted.

“Okay, okay…” Shauku admitted while hanging his head in shame. “So we pretty much got us completely and totally lost."

“But come on…” Gumba chimed in. “…How could this get any worse?"

To answer his question, Apple Bloom screamed as the cliffside underneath became moist and soggy, collapsing under their weight, taking the rest of the group with them. They all ended sliding down the muddy slope and into a mud pit at the bottom of the hill, thus covering their hooves and paws with mud.

"We gotta get out of this rain." Apple Bloom said. "There's no tellin' how long this storm could last."

"Look!" Mtoto pointed to something just ahead. A nice and cute colored mobile home, yet old and rather rundown. But regardless with all things considered it’ll still suffice.

"It looks abandoned." Apple Bloom said. "Let's go see if we can find some blankets or something'."

Once they reached the place, Kambuni opened the door, which creaked. Lightning flashed once more and the children hurried inside, to avoid getting struck with electricity. Sweetie Belle was quick to use her magic to close the door.

Once they were safe for the time being, the kids started to explore the place. It looked like a very decent, but very messy. There were spiderwebs, broken plates and cups, books, pages and boxes everywhere.

“Wow.” Gumba remarked upon getting a good look at the place. “Looks like someone forget to pay their monthly maintenance bill.”

“Try yearly.” Shauku corrected.

“Guys…” Mtoto scolded. “…let’s just try to stand still and wait this storm out before anyone finds us here.”

No sooner than he said it, a sound was heard from outside. It sounded like hoof steps, which grew louder and louder, and drawing closer and closer to the door.

"Too late!" Scootaloo said fearfully as she and her pony friends huddled together, slowly backing away from the door. The boys and girls held each other respectively for close protection. The door opened and they saw an incredibly large shadowy figure standing before them, taller than anything they had encountered. Their first reaction was to naturally scream.

The figure himself ended up screaming too, much to their surprise.

The guy ended up hitting his head against the ceiling and galloped into the house, tumbling, tripping and colliding with anything and everything in sight. It was dark so it was hard to see who it was. The creature screamed the whole time, crying out in pain whenever he hit something. The kids didn't know if to be scared or concerned since he is equally scared too. Just when it seemed the ongoing pain is endless the guy finally hit his head with a lamp and fell to the floor.

Apple Bloom bravely walked up to him just when his eyes slowly opened. "Hello? You alright?"

With more confidence and less fear, the others looked down at the guy, who in reality was a very large, and rather clumsy, stallion. He had a brown coat, a dark brown mane, light green eyes and a white snout. He also wore a simple yellow hat and he was tied up in a tangled mess of rope and silk.

"Surely." He said with his strong country accent.

“We’re sorry.” Kwato said to him already feeling sympathy for the guy.

“We didn't mean any harm.“ Kambuni added. “We just came in to get out of the rain."

"Had some hot cider a-cookin' in the kitchen. Doubt it survived." The large pony looked over at his kitchen, which indeed was destroyed from the crazy chaos he had unintentionally created, including the cider he was preparing for himself. He then noticed the Pride Landers natives in front of him. "Aint ya'll an elephant, mongoose, zebra, ostrich, and a Guinea pig?”

“Baboon.” Gumba corrected. “But everything else you’ve nailed to the T.”

“Well regardless…I ain't gonna rise to greet y'all. Awfully rude, I reckon, but as you can see, I'm the fresh casualty of an unusually unfortunate circumstance. My lot in life, I suppose."

Acting on his gut feeling, Mtoto stepped forward to ask the question to this miserable loner. “Are you... Trouble Shoes?"

"That's me."

Both Shaku and Gumba shook their heads in mild disbelief hearing this.

"Really?”

“Not quite what we expected, quite honestly.”

“I get that a lot, boys.”

After sharing a look with both Kwato and Kambuni upon seeing on how miserable this pony truly is, they all nodded and moved to approach the stallion until both Mtoto and Scootaloo held them back.

“What are you doing?” The little worried elephant asked.

"We're gonna unwrap him." Apple Bloom answered with a smile.

"You can't do that!" Sweetie Belle interjected. "That's Trouble Shoes!"

"Aw, he don't seem so bad."

“Besides…” Kwato said as she moved to untie the pony. “…he doesn’t look dangerous at all.”

The five worked together and managed to untie the pony, who literally towered over them. He was very imposing with his large size, but not quite to Celestia’s extent.

"Of course guests would arrive while I ain't got no pie to offer. Scores more misfortune points for old Trouble Shoes." The stallion then tripped on a banana pile and collided with a bookshelf, "Wh-whooaaa!" a bowling ball fell and landed on his head, followed by two more, leaving a big red bump on his head. "Typical. Bad luck never rests."

"You sure that's bad luck?" Kambuni curiously asked. "Seems like maybe you're just a little, um…"

"Klutzy?" Sweetie finished.

"Tell that to the flank!" Trouble Shoes showed them his cutie mark, which was a green horse show placed upside down, "Upside-down horseshoe – bad luck. Follows me wherever I go like sour on old milk. Y'all best vamoose before my bad luck rubs off and sticks to y'all. Get along! Skedaddle!" He walked to the entrance and pointed his hoof to the door to direct them to leave. "Am-scray!"

"Um, we don't really know the way back to Appleloosa…" Sctootaloo honestly admitted.

"But o' course I do. Wouldn't you know it? My lucky day." He then said sarcastically while unable to find it in his heart to leave the children to the elements let alone vulnerable to danger. Helping them is the least he could do.

Trouble Shoes led the children across the forest. The rain finally stopped so that was good. Only, through the whole time, Trouble Shoes didn't talk or say anything. He just looked so sad and miserable.

"It's actually kind of sweet of him to help us out like this." Kwato commented.

"I know!” Kambuni agreed. “Certainly something you don’t see with everyday criminals.”

“But what do we do if he takes us back to Appleloosa and the sheriff arrests him?" Mtoto asked with worry.

Scootaloo lowered her ears. "I wouldn’t know, but we’re sure not going to find out the hard way. Man, If I get a cutie mark for that, I'll feel guilty every time I see it."

Mtoto unable to hold himself accountable for someone truly innocent being thrown being bars with all things considered name aside, moved to walk by his side. “Say, Trouble Shoes, you might not want to take us all the way back to Appleloosa. The sheriff sort thinks that you're a no-good outlaw trying to shut down the rodeo."

"My kind of luck he'd think that."

"But… is it true?"

"Y'all like stories?"

"Mm-hmm!" they all replied with smiles.

"Just my luck. I was hopin' you'd say no." Knowing they were not going to leave him alone until they find out the truth, the poor depressed stallion began sharing his tale.

"When I was a colt, I wanted to be a rodeo star somethin' fierce, but I just didn't seem to have the knack for it." Back then he was a spirited and curious little pony back in those days. "After practecin' non stop, finally, I wrangled up the guts to audition for rodeo school. Right in the middle of that tryout, I knew I was doin' what I was meant to. And wouldn't you know it? In a flash comes this here cutie mark."

He could still remember the painful memories from that day. To him it was the worst day of his life The minute his cutie mark appeared, his lasso hit a barrel, which landed right on his head. The judges laughed so hard upon seeing this much to the poor pony’s embarrassment.

"I can still remember them judges a-laughin'. Didn't even finish my routine 'cause right then I knew bad luck was my fate. That fire for rodeo never did leave me, though. Couldn't keep away from 'em. So I'd sneak down and have a look, and wouldn't you know it? Bad luck would strike again. Just my lot in life, I reckon…"

“So all this time…” Kwato came to realize. “…all of the chaos that’s been happening during this time was all just accidents

"Poor Trouble Shoes." Sweetie Belle said with sympathy for the guy. "I can't believe those mean judges would laugh at him like that."

“Or maybe it was just a misunderstanding…” Shakku suggested otherwise.

“What?!” Both girls look on confused at the mongoose’s reply.

Apple Bloom getting the same idea smiled as she explained. "Don't you see? They weren't laughin' at him. They were just enjoyin' the show."

“Exactly!” Gumba agreed much to the little Pegasus and ostrich’s confusion.

“What are you saying?” Scootaloo asked.

“Are you sure it’s not that warm apple cider in your gut talking?” Kambuni asked looking very unsure of who to believe.

"Think about it. If we saw a rodeo clown doin' what he did back in that shack, we'd think he was the greatest!" Gumba explained.

“Exactly, partner!” Shakku said in a country accent while nuzzling and giving the baboon and nudgie on the head. “Yer learning to think their ways, deputy.”

“Of course…” Sweetie realized as she smiled. “He could still be in rodeos, just not the way he thought!"

"So he's been looking at his cutie mark wrong the whole time!" Scootaloo also came to see it too.

"There they are!" Ono's voice shouted also alarming everyone.

Suddenly, a dust cloud covered Trouble Shoes, followed by ropes suddenly wrapping around his neck and torso. Just then Fuli and Kion appeared alongside the Sheriff, his men, Applejack and Braeburn. They had arrive to capture and arrest the supposed outlaw.

"Just my luck."

The sheriff stood before him, "Trouble Shoes, you're under arrest for vandalizin' the property and peace of mind of the good rodeo-lovin' ponies of Equestria! Not to mention kidnappin'! And... generalized mayhem!"

The kids couldn't allow this to happen. They needed to clear this whole misunderstanding. "Wait!"

Applejack turned to her cousin. "Braeburn, get these kids someplace safe." She galloped away to join the others in taking poor Trouble Shoes away. Apple Bloom tried to reason with her sister, but she did not listen as they are being escorted back home.

"No!"

It was too late and to no avail. Trouble Shoes was gone and now on his way to jail. And the worst part about was, he didn’t even kidnap the children. If only they knew…

Back in Appleloosa, the kids tried to reason with Applejack and tell her what really happened.

"But Trouble Shoes isn't the menace everypony thinks!" Apple Bloom said in protest.

“Yeah!” Shauku said in her defense. “He’s just an innocent klutz!”

"Sakes alive, what's with you?" Applejack said still finding it very had to believe. "Why in tarnation would you want me to help get him out of jail when he's the one who ran off with y'all to begin with?!" The children could only wince with guilt since that’s one very vital bit they didn’t tell her. “Now if y'all excuse me, I'm off to win the Appleloosa rodeo hay bale monster stack."

"Um, Applejack?" Apple Bloom tried to tell her once more but she was already out the door, just when Kion and Fuli walked in.

“Okay kids…” Fuli said sternly. “…start talking!”

“About…” Shauku nervously asked with a smile as the cheetah gives her the motherly death stare.

“Everything you did from the moment you snuck out last night!”

Gumba gasped. “You mean…”

“Yes! I know!” The mongoose and baboon along with the others nervously sweated in response. “So…” She gestured at them to get them to start explaining.

Apple Bloom stepped forward on behalf of the group. “Well, after we did so in order to track and find him…”

“Purely on luck.” Kwato chimed in.

“…we ended up coming across his trailer where we find out that Trouble Shoes isn’t the dangerous pony everyone claims he is. And point being, everything he did at the rodeo, was purely by accident.”

“Accident?” Kion asked with a quizzical expression.

“Yeah!” Scootaloo chimed in to continue on with the explaining. “Considering he has a cutie mark that’s an upside-down horseshoe that pretty much explains all of the incidents that’s been occurring around here."

“If he’s carrying around a bad luck charm, that’ll sure do the trick.” Fuli quipped yet fully understanding of the stallion with every word she is hearing.

“Yeah…” Kambuni spoke up. “… and all of this time since he got his cutie mark, he’s been thinking he’s doomed to never partake in a rodeo, yet he just doesn’t quite realize what his true purpose in life is supposed to be.”

Mtoto stepped forward buttoning up his baby blue eyes at both Kion and Fuli. “Can’t you both do something to help get Trouble Shoes out of this so we can prove his innocence and help him realize his destiny? Please?”

Both Kion and Fuli looked at each other feeling uncertain of how to approach this. On one paw, with all things considered they are never ones to turn away an innocent defendant and the pleading look in Mtoto’s eyes, but on the other paw, their next option to help is risky as far as their reputations are concerned. Helping someone break out of prison is never a good look, but in regards to someone who doesn’t belong in there, well…

Elsewhere, Trouble Shoes sighed sadly as he gazed out form his prison cell in the sheriff’s office.

"Well, at least I get me a view of one small corner of the rodeo." Unfortunately his weight gave way and broke the mattress he was standing on, which was now around his waist. "Figures."

Sheriff Silverstar groaned at what he just saw. "Aw, come on now, Trouble Shoes! I'm runnin' out of mattresses!" He gestured to the pile of broken mattresses in the corner of the room.

From the window, the kids could see the sheriff leaning back on his chair, about ready to take a nap while Ono keeps watch for him.

Just then he spotted both Kion and Fuli gesturing their heads towards the door wanting him to leave. "Huh?" He did so albeit reluctantly. But why?

“Okay…” Shauku spoke unsure of what’s to come next while briefly looking on at his equally confused baboon friend.

“…so we wait out here, Ono leaves, and then what?” Gumba asked just when Sweetie works her magic in obtaining the keys on a hook by levitating them towards her.

Just then the door opened where Apple Bloom came inside. “Come on, sheriff! You're about to miss the hay bale monster stack!"

"Jiminy, that's startin' already?!" He quickly galloped away. Apple Bloom smiled proudly, leaving both the mongoose and baboon dumbfounded with how easy that diversion was.

“Oh right, that.”

“Of course.”

After the sheriff had left the kids went inside while both Kion and Fuli appear and stand outside near the door to keep watch in case he comes back.

“All right, kids. Go!”

Wasting no time, Gumba grabbed the keys and unlocked Trouble Shoe’s jail cell. “Let's go, Trouble Shoes! This here's a jailbreak!" He said in the same country accent his partner used the other night.

“Now you got it.” The mongoose complimented.

The large stallion however didn’t budge from where he was sitting. "Ain't no need. Can hear the rodeo just fine from this vantage."

"But we've got a plan to help you live your dream!" Scootaloo countered which did little to improve his mood.

"Listen, y'all, I'm a known criminal. How you proposin' on gettin' me into a rodeo?"

"I think all of that can be arranged.” Mtoto replied confidently.

“How?”

As Ono watches on, the truth is starting to become clear to him. Trouble Shoes really isn't dangerous as he is all hyped up to be.

The crowd on the bleachers cheered as the ponies stacked the bales, with Applejack like before at the top of her game. She and the other ponies worked together to get the bales up to the very top without causing a tumble. A pole stood on the side with arrows on it, to see just how high it would go. The Pride Landers and Crusaders cheered from the sidelines while Ono kept his eyes locked on praying that the tower stays stable.

"Go, Applejack!" Her little sister cheered just when Kion and Fuli walked up to them.

“You all know what you’re doing?” Kion asked.

Both Shakku and Gumba were quick to assert their confidence in the matter.

“Trust us!”

“By the time this act is over, the crowd will be doing a full 180 on their opinion of him.”

“Are you sure it’s not 360?”

“Yes, because we don’t know if it’s going to go full circle.”

“Of course it will, rodeo clowns always go full circle.”

“Not literally…” He groaned. “…forget it, point being this will work.”

The kids along with the lion and cheetah all turned their attention to the pony attempting his luck at being a rodeo clown who is now wearing a colorful and amusing clown costume. But his dry tone and gloomy frown didn’t change, one bit.

"Well, how do I look?"

Everyone couldn’t help but giggle at the sight, not even Kion and Fuli who both found it pretty amusing themselves, but given of how he’s trying to entertain the crowd it’s actually a good start. Though it still did little in lifting his spirits thinking he’ll still be recognized. However, the minute he saw those ponies stacking the hay barrels up so high up, he ended up doing a 180 himself. And for the first time since they met, he smiled and cheered with such enthusiasm to make it clear he does have what it takes to partake in the rodeo.

"Come on now, stack them bales! Woo-hoo!"

A pony flung the final barrel, it was tossed left and right by the ponies already on the tall stack. Applejack on the highest barrel, kicked it with everything she’s got, and it was just enough for it to land on the top. The crowd gasped for it seemed it would fall before sighing in relief when it didn’t.

Once it settled in it’s place, a Pegasus pony flew up to the pole and rose the arrow up to the very tip top. The audience looked on worried and unsure if they have come up short, but much to everyone’s relief and cheering excitement they just edged the previous record.

"It's a new rodeo record!" Ono exclaimed in excitement.

“Way to go, Applejack!”

“You did it!”

Both Kion and Fuli happily shouted for their friend.

"That's my sister!" Apple Bloom shouted proudly.

Applejack huddled with the others ponies, congratulating one another on their success.

At that moment, entertainment music began playing, and the rodeo clowns came out. The audience immediately started laughing, even Trouble Shoes. To the audience, rodeo clowns are comedy gold.

Seeing the act has already started Apple Bloom turned to the stallion, "'Kay now, Trouble Shoes, you're on!"

"Say what?! I may be dressed like one, but I ain't no rodeo clown."

"You got your cutie mark all wrong, Trouble Shoes!” Mtoto reminded once more. “You were born to entertain! You've got a gift for makin' folks laugh, don't you?"

"But my cutie mark's an upside-down horseshoe, and that means bad luck." He turned around and hung his head still lacking his own faith at the idea.

"That all depends on how you look at it." Sweetie pointed with an encouraging smile.

Shauku moved to approach him by leaping up onto him. “You know how you always said yous wanted to be a part of the rodeo, right?”

“Well, now's your chance." Gumba gestured to the open field of clowns right in front of him.

“You can do this!” Kion said with a friendly smile of good faith. “If I have a friend back home who can do it so can you.”

Trouble Shoes knew deep down that the rodeo is his true passion. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime. For once he can prove to everyone that he turn his bad luck around and it’s standing right in front of him. With a determined smile he leaped ahead and right into circus field. He stopped, looking back at the others, who encouraged him to keep going forward.

"You can do this! Go on!” Fuli gestured with her paw.

Trouble Shoes pressed forward and ended up stepping on a colorful beach ball, which caused him to slip and fall face forward. "Whoa!" the ball flew off and landed on Braeburn's head. And just like that,, the ponies laughed at the scene. Five seconds in and he is already making everypony laugh.

Trouble Shoes was initially starting to get nervous once they started laughing, but the children still cheered for him. Feeling further encouraged by the kids, he galloped ahead, in an attempt to do another silly thing. Never before he had this much fun in doing this kind of thing.

While they were watching, Applejack came up to them with her very own trophy while Ono came over with a gold medal and plaque. "There y'all are! How 'bout your big sis, huh?" She was a bit surprised that nobody payed attention to her. Their eyes were all focused on Trouble Shoes, who continued with his comedic humor. Apple Bloom briefly looked at her sister.

"Yeah, way to go." She said without even paying attention to her.

"Girls, guys..." Ono spoke rather surprised that they are not even paying attention to them. "Oh, right." He realized after remembering what he saw just earlier.

Applejack found it quite even more surprising that both Kion and Fuli were equally into watching the whole rodeo clown act. "Since when are y'all so into rodeo clowns?"

“Oh, just recently.” Fuli replied without looking back.

“We’ll explain later.” Kion added while briefly looking back before directing her attention back to the show. “But for now, just watch.”

The clowns flipped around and leaping over the barrels. Trouble Shoes tried to follow suit but found he is way too big for it. One of the clowns behind up ran up and accidentally collided with him causing the former to flip into the air, and fallon the ground. He landed on his back and other other clown landed on his legs, she began moving like Trouble Shoes was a bicycle. Even still the ponies all continued to laugh.

Next up, they all started jumping into hoops, with two clowns holding two of them up while one clown had one balanced on his head. Trouble Shoes briefly was unsure of how to approach this, but still mustered up the confidence to press forward to give it a try.

"Just leave me be, cutie mark!"

He galloped ahead towards the clowns with the hoops. However, they all split apart due to the guy’s massive frame. The one with the hoop on his head found himself running away trying to avoid getting hurt, all while knocking aside barrels and hay stacks in his way.

"I aim to clear that there hoop!"

The audience still believed it was all part of the act and continued to laugh their hearts out. In amidst the chaos, one of the barrels ended up on Trouble Shoe's head, and he couldn't see a thing due to the hole being covered with a cork.

"Come on now!"

He ran all around, trying to get it off, but ended up knocking down the very tall hay stack, and the barrels all ended up on landing on top of the running clowns. One even managed to land on Braeburn, which still made him and the audience laugh all together.

Trouble Shoes finally stopped running and his belt unbuckled, causing his clown trousers to fall, revealing his lower torso and cutie mark. In all of their years of clown rodeo, that was the funniest thing they have ever seen.

In fact, it was so funny that even Applejack couldn’t stop herself from laughing nonstop and felt a few tears escape from her eyes while she was at it. "That's the best rodeo clown I ever seen!"

The kids along with the lion and cheetah all cheered for their friend. He had done such a wonderful job, even he still didn't know it. Finally the cork came off allowing Trouble Shoes to see the audience’s reactions to his performance.

Much like when he remembered in the past, everybody was laughing. But, it wasn't the bad kind of laughing. It was the good kind of laughing. Upon seeing this, he was now realizing that this really is his true passion. And that really was looking at his cutie mark all wrong. He smiled as he removed the barrel, with water that was inside it spilling on his face, removing his clown makeup and big red shiny nose. His happy revelation was cut short when the audience gasped upon recognizing his face.

"Trouble Shoes!"

"What the hay?!" Applejack couldn't believe her eyes while Kion, Fuli, and the kids winced at the sight seeing his cover his blown.

“Oh, boy…” Fuli muttered to herself seeing everything’s doing a 180 on him. And not in the good way.

"He escaped from jail!" One of the townsponies cried.

"Ruinin' another rodeo!"

"Let's get him!"

The two stallions from before finally found a use for their pitchfork and torch and the audience was just about ready to surround and give the poor pony a piece of their mind. Thankfully before that could happen, the children all quickly ran up to his defense.

"Wait, y'all!" Apple Bloom cried out, "He ain't what you think he is!"

"Stand aside, young's!" The sheriff said as he approached them with his deputies standing beside him. "This one's goin' back to jail." But before that could happen both Kion and Fuli quick rushed over to stand in between them.

“Hold it, sheriff!”

“Before you make a mistake you’ll regret!”

“What in the name of Appleoosa is this, young man and lady? Or more accurately young lion and cheetah?”

“We’re saying you shouldn’t arrest him yet.”

“Because there’s something these kids have to say and if I were you I’d pay attention because there’s more truth that meets the eye more than you think.”

The kids smiled when Kion turned back to them. “Go ahead.”

"Trouble Shoes never wanted to ruin any rodeos!" Mtoto said. "Those were just bad accidents!"

“Mtoto, what are you talkin' about?" Applejack asked highly surprised and still confused of what they were talking about.

"Trouble Shoes has a gift for making ponies laugh!" Scootaloo further explained. "He's maybe the best rodeo clown I've ever seen!"

"That's true! He is awful funny." The elderly female judge agreed.

Apple Bloom spoke next. "He thought his cutie mark was telling him to keep away from rodeos, but deep inside he knew it's where he was meant to be. He just didn't know how to do it."

The crowd muttered amongst one another as Trouble Shoes took off his head and moved to explain himself. "What she says is true. This here entertainin' y'all with my klutzin'? That's what I was supposed to be doin'. I know it now. I didn't mean no harm, honest! I just ain't never loved nothin' like I love the rodeo, so I kept on sneakin' back and makin' a big old mess of things. Turns out I was just a-lookin' at my cutie mark all wrong."

The ponies no longer felt anger towards him, it is now that they completely understand him. He truly loves the rodeo and by doing what he did he made everypony laugh, in fact made them laugh like they never laughed before.

"That may be so, Trouble Shoes, but you still gotta face charges for the problems you've caused!" The sheriff sternly said.

Though Trouble Shoes wasn’t going to protest that. "If I done wrong, I'll see to it that I take my medicine and square my accounts."

"Truth be told, we could understand all the trouble with the rodeos, but why'd you have to run off with these here little'uns last night?"

And that’s where the kids had to confess again as they all sported nervous smiles while Shakku and Gumba both stepped forward to speak on behalf of the team.

"Uh, yeah…”

“…about that…"

After explaining the whole incident to the sheriff, Trouble Shoes was now free of all charges and free to be a rodeo clown. He had even began making new friends already. As for the kids…

They had to face the consequences for the misunderstanding that led to Trouble Shoes nearly being prosecuted for a crime he didn’t commit. They were all tasked with cleaning up after the show, and judging from how many events there were today, it was going to take a while. Applejack, Kion, Ono, and Fuli all supervised them while they worked.

Mtoto, Shauku, and Gumba were all sweeping the confetti. Both the mongoose and baboon tried to say something to the little elephant before being beaten to the punch. "Don’t. I told you we’d all get in trouble for this."

“Okay.” The other two boys said without another word knowing that they both had this coming. It was their idea, and there was no way that their guardians we’re going overlook this. It was either that, or seeing to that Trouble Shoes spends the rest of his life in prison just when he had finally came around to living with good luck.

“But still…” The mongoose said as he and the baboon turned to the orange pony.

“…You really want us to clean up all this mess Trouble Shoes made?" Gumba finished and asked.

"Maybe it'll teach you not to go wanderin' off after I say not to!" Applejack said.

"Ugh. Ain't it bad enough that you two get to go back to Ponyville with a shiny trophy, medal, and plaque, and all we're bringing back is these same old blank flanks?" Apple Bloom complained whole looking down at her flank.

"Now I wouldn't say it was all for nothing." Fuli said otherwise.

Kion smiled proudly at them. "You guys all helped Trouble Shoes realize what his cutie mark really means. You believed in him even when no one else did."

"Isn't that something you can take back with you?" Fuli added while also smiling and proud at them with their success. And with one more look at their new happy friend, they all realized the truth in their words of wisdom.

"I guess we did make things a little better." Sweetie Belle said.

"It does feel kinda nice." Scootaloo came to agree.

“Of course it does.” Kwato stated whole-heartedly.

“We just turned a pony’s life around a whole 360.” Kambuni added equally satisfied with what they did.

Shauku then smiled hopefully. "So…does this mean we can keep stop working?"

“Pretty please?” Gumba added with clasped hands.

Kion, Fuli, Ono, and Applejack all looked at each other and then at the kids before giving them their answer.

“Unless you want your parents to find out about all of this…” Fuli started before they all finished together.

"Nnope!"

The two boys both frowned in dismay as they were starting to get tired from all of this cleanup work. But none of the less, not one to complain they both reluctantly pressed forward alongside their friends.

Author's Note

Before I begin, I start off by saying for those wondering about "Bloom and Gloom."? No, I am not going to be able to cover it in this story, because as I said in a previous comment there is not a whole lot of wiggle room to work with in that episode to make it a crossover worthy episode.

So do not ask me about that again.

Please and thanks.

In this episode, we have another episode featuring the kids this time around while Applejack, Kion, Fuli, and Ono all stand on the sidelines as they track down the notorious Trouble Shoes. When they just happened to find him he's...not exactly what the townsponies and the local sheriff described as.

Turns out he's just misunderstood and cursed with bad luck that happens by accident. Out of place for participating in rodeo events but a different story for true potential as a rodeo clown. Only he never realized it up until he met the little ones accidentally.

But of course lucky for him after some time in jail (again another misunderstanding), the kids were able to help him come to terms of what his cutie mark truly means all while allowing him to gain friends amongst the other rodeo clowns...even though they got the stern talking too from their guardians along with being saddled with cleanup punishment for sneaking out in the first place.

Next up we have "Swept Away." where Beshte along with Applejack find themselves in the Outlands and have to navigate their way out of the dry season heat before the Outsiders claim them so look out for that next week to kick off the new month.

Episode 26: The Morning Report

Episode 26:

The Morning Report

While on patrol throughout the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard along with Sunset Shimmer came across Bupu in a little predicament. He is currently straining and struggling to free himself after he managed to get his antlers stuck in a tree and he is not happy about it.

“Did you try pulling?” Bunga asked while standing on his back.

“Of course I tried pulling!” The antelope leader irritably returned.

“Did you try pushing?” Pinkie asked to which Bupu returned with an scowl a fuming snort from his nostrils. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

"Yep." Sunset answered for him while sharing the antelope's frowning demeanor and expression.

“Everyone? We've got an impatient antelope herd back here.” Ono informed the Lion and Pony Guard. “Seems they won't go anywhere without Bupu.”

“Of course not. I am their leader.” Said antelope pointed out the obvious.

“Good thing he didn't lead the whole herd into that tree.” Fuli whispered to the others.

“No kidding!” Rainbow laughed in agreement. “Then the whole tree would be knocked down.” Upon seeing Bupu glaring at him she cut it out right away. "Sorry."

“Wait.” Kion spoke up after coming up with an idea. “Instead of pulling Bupu out of the tree why don't we just break off the branch that's stuck?”

“So I'll be walking around with a branch stuck to my horns?” Bupu asked incredulous at the idea.

“At least you'll be walking around.” Kion pointed out.

"Along with being able to go on about your day without standing there waiting for someone else to assist you." Sunset leaned in towards the struggling antelope leader. "Unless of course staying put is what you want."

“Yeah. So you can lead your herd. Like you're supposed to.”

“Better than still be trapped there like my Granny Smith would always say.”

Beshte, Fuli, and Applejack all added to back Kion and Sunset up.

“Not to mention, it'll look great.” Bunga added while putting branch on top of his head. “Maybe I'll start wearing a branch.”

“I’d strongly not recommend it, Bunga.” Rarity kindly shot down the idea before pulling out her nail filer that she uses to trim down the nails on her hooves. “But as for you branch problem, Bupu, I think I can help you out there.” She then blew into her hooves before carefully brushing her nail filer against the branch. Slowly but surely she was able to make progress in sawing it off. “Now if we can just…”

“Careful!” Bupu warned even with delicate hoofs handling the matter just not wanting anymore damage to his horns.

“Don’t worry, Bupu. I am.” She quickly assured but her careful trimming of the branch was abruptly interrupted when a voice called out to her.

“Quit cutting down my branch!” The sudden command had Rarity fumble with the cutting as she ended up cutting the branch off of the tree already.

“A talking tree?” Bunga gasped with his claws to his cheeks in shock.

Pinkie was about to gasp when Twilight quickly placed a hoof over her mouth to keep her from following suit with a dramatic scream.

“No Bunga, that’s just a bird who happens to be living on this branch.” Twilight explained.

“That’s right! Can't a bird feather his nest in peace?” Said bird complained.

Beshte upon recognizing him was quick to happily greet him. “Hey, Nyuni! You live here now?”

“Yes.” He kindly nodded. “I like to try staying in different parts of the Savannah. And this was a great place to live. Until someone waving around his giant horns.” He then said the last part with an annoyed glance in Bupu’s direction.

Bunga whispered in the antelope leader’s ear. “Bupu, I think he means you.”

“No. Really?” He sarcastically remarked not even close to being amused.

Fluttershy floated over to try to reason with him. “Nyuni, we’re really sorry about all of this. But do you really mind if you had to find a new nest?”

“Why should I have to move just because this big ox came along and...”

“I am not an ox!” Bupu interrupted and corrected mid-sentence now feeling heated already at the insult.

“Or maybe he's not talking about you!” Pinkie tried to make light of it to no avail while popping her mouth free from Twilight’s grasp.

“Oh, I'm talking about him all right.”

Just then Zazu, the king’s royal advisor flew over to them having been drawn by the argument. “What is all this commotion about?”

“Oh, hey, Zazu.”

“Hi.”

Both leaders of the Guard greeted as Zazu landed in front of them.

“Kion. Twilight.” He nodded towards them in return before turning back to the issue at hoof. “Hmm. An antelope stuck in a tree now wearing a branch on his head...This will most definitely be included in my Morning Report.”

“To the King?” Bupu asked in embarrassed shock. “Does he need to find out about this? Does everyone?”

The royal advisor remained firm about it. “It is my sworn duty to keep the King informed of all the goings-on in the Pride Lands. No matter how bizarre they may be.”

Just before the argument could resume Sunset spoke up with a compromise for both sides. “Wait. Hold up. I think I know how you can both be happy.”

Said solution had Bupu free from the tree while still wearing the branch on his head and Nyuni riding his nest on top of it.

“I don't know about this.” The antelope leader expressed uncertainty about the idea itself.

“At least now you can lead your herd again.” Fuli pointed out once more.

“And Nyuni gets to see even more of the Pride Lands this way.” Applejack added in agreement.

“Even though it won’t last long.” Rarity muttered under her breath.

Nyuni himself liked this arrangement if it means keeping his nest and branch. “Yeah! Let's go Bupu!”

Bupu groaned still not liking the idea but pressed forward if it means everyone is happy about it. “Let's go, antelopes.”

“Whoa! Easy!” Nyuni yelled out before they could start running to which Bupu complied to his wishes immediately before moving to walk their way over to their grazing grounds.

“Hmm. Very original solution, Kion.” Zazu spoke approving the idea himself before turning to the unicorn with similar colors as the young lion. "And very original compromise, Sunset Shimmer. Also very original."

“Thanks, Zazu.”

With his business done here, Zazu moved to fly away. “Now, if you'll excuse me, I must see what else is transpiring in the Pride Lands. Not that I imagine anything will top this.” Before leaving he had one more thing to say as he flew by the antelope leader once more. “Bupu, in the future, do try to avoid running into trees.”

“Thank you, Zazu.” Bupu dryly replied while glancing back at him respectfully just wanting to move on from the whole incident.

Not only that, Zazu also had one more thing to say for Twilight to want to hear. “And you do remember that you have a meeting with the royal highness's and the other leaders later today in regards to…you know who.”

“Of course, Zazu.” Twilight acknowledged the reminder with a friendly nod to which had the hornbill fully satisfied into flying off ahead for good and without another word.

“Zazu sure likes getting into everybody's business.” Fuli commented somewhat annoyed herself.

“No kidding.” Rarity agreed. “And here I thought that was Pinkie’s job.”

“What? Me? Come on!” Pinkie giggled and affectionately nuzzled her head. “I’m more of a party planner than a nosy detail seeking note taker like a straight A student, Twilight.” Said alicorn scrunched up her face while resisting the urge to say otherwise.

“Well, as nosy as it may be, Pinkie, Fuli, it’s his job to know what is going on in the Pride Lands and let the king and the princesses know of that.” Twilight gently reminded while not taking offense to the party pony’s previous remark.

“Twilight’s right.” Kion agreed as he chimed in. “He looks out for all the animals in the Pride Lands. Even us. Remember that time he was after you to slow down when we were little?”

“Huh. Which time?” Fuli asked with a grin to which Rainbow moved to do the same seeking a more specific answer.

“The time Bunga and I ran into the crocodiles...”

"Really?" Sunset was now sounding intrigued to know more about this particular encounter. "Do tell?"

Using his magic, Kion was able to show a visual as he recalled that very memory that day much to the unicorn's awe. Back then, both Bunga and Kion as young toddlers are both walking through the Pride Lands both filled with adventurous spirit.

“Zuka Zama!” Bunga cheered just when Zazu appeared to intercept them.

“There you are! Kion, didn't your father tell you to stay put?”

“Aw, Zazu! Me and Bunga are on an adventure!” Kion complained.

But before Zazu could continue putting his wings down on the matter he was knocked off his feet when a certain cheetah both Kion and Bunga’s age rushed by.

“Coming through! Huwezi!”

Both Young Kion and Bunga laughed at what happened to which Zazu moved to pursue the baby cheetah to ensure she doesn’t get hurt,

“Now see here, young cheetah. You need to slow down!” Zazu scolded.

The baby cheetah stopped and turned back with a playful and somewhat mean smirk. “Slow down. Got it. Huwezi!” She moved to run by and knock Zazu off of his legs again before running off ahead.

“That's not slowing down. Fuli! Fuli!” Zazu called out to her while quickly pursing her much to both Kion and Bunga’s amusement before they ran off in the opposite direction.

“And as for you two...” Zazu then said to both boys as he turned around, only to see that they are already gone. “Kion? Bunga! Oh, dear!” He quickly flew off to where he last saw them in an attempt to find them. “Where have you gotten to?”

While Zazu is searching for them, the two buddies felt free to do what they please.

“Adventure, here we come!”

“Yeah!”

Young Kion gasped when he spotted something up ahead through the tall grass. “Crocodiles!”

Young Bunga of course scoffed in the face of them. “Crocodiles? Big deal. They can't stop us. Zuka Zama!” He then proceeded to foolishly march up to the edge of the watering hole where the float is all resting and swimming in front of them.

“Bunga? Wait for me.”

Already Young Bunga was quick to bite off more than he could chew with his brazen mouth. “All right, croc-iddy crocs! Outta the way!”

His words ended up catching both Makuu along with Pua’s attention.

“What's this?”

“Looks like a snack.”

The two crocs exchanged before the latter moved to float on over to the edge to confront the brash big talking babies.

Young Kion wasted no time in rushing up to his friend’s defense. “Careful crocodiles. You don't want to mess with us.”

“Who do these little ones think they are?” Makuu said outloud at the very sight of two babies daring to pick a fight with them.

“I'm Bunga! He's Kion!” Bunga replied while poking the short-tempered croc’s noise. “And you crocs are in our way!”

The crocodiles all laughed in response to the big talk the baby honey badger was throwing in their direction.

Even though Pua found it amusing he still asserted seriously to the kids that this is not the time and place for fun and games. “Little cubs. This is crocodile territory. You should leave. Now!”

“Unless you mean to challenge me.” Makuu added in a threatening tone while emerging from the water so he can see eye to eye to intimidate the brash toddler.

“Oh, yeah! That's right! You bet your bumps I'm gonna challenge you!” Bunga stated without even thinking or knowing what he is saying. “What does "challenge" mean?”

The crocodiles moved to circle around the cubs already taking offense to the honey badger’s tone directed at them.

“Hey!” Young Kion quickly stood by his friend even knowing of how foolish and dangerous it is for them. “If you're messin' with Bunga, you're messin' with me!”

Makuu smirked as he relished at the opportunity handed to him on a silver platter. “Oh, good. Two tasty snacks at the same time...”

“Yummy!”

The baby lion cub could only gulp as the crocs prepare to do their worst to them.

Luckily for them, Zazu managed to find them and see what was happening just in time. “Enough!” He seriously stated as he flew down and landed right in front of the two children.

“Zazu?” They both expressed in surprise and relief that he managed to find them.

Certainly they are both going to get a talk for this, but with more important issues at hoof. “I expect it's merely an oversight on your part, Pua. But surely you did not intend for Makuu to eat... The son of the King?”

“This is the son of the King?” Pua asked highly surprised as this is news to him.

With all eyes looking at them Bunga points at Kion. “Him. Not me.”

“I hardly think the King would be pleased if your crocs gobbled him up for no reason.”

Makuu however begged to differ on that. “"No reason?" These two came to our watering hole and challenged us. We have every right to eat them.”

“Makuu is right, Zazu.” Pua said in agreement. “King Simba knows and respects our ways.”

“Zazu?” Young Bunga fearfully uttered hoping that there is some way he can help them out of this.

Seeing the crocodiles are still mindset on wanting to make an example out of them he then moved forward with a decision in play. “Very well, Pua. I, too, respect the crocodile ways. But, as Kion's well-being is my responsibility...” He moved to hop into Makuu's mouth. “…I offer myself in his place.”

“Huh?” Makuu uttered very surprised by the hornbill’s willingness to go through with it.

“Un-Bunga-lievable!” Young Bunga gasped in astonishment.

“Though I am but a humble adviser to King Simba, I expect I will satisfy even the most discriminating of palates.”

All of the crocodiles including Makuu and Pua was all very impressed and amazed at Zazu’s sacrifice to the point the crocodile leader had a reasonable lapse of judgement.

“Simba is a good and fair King. I would not want to anger him by eating his son, or his royal adviser. Especially one who displays the bravery of a crocodile.” He sighed deciding it was best this way. “You three are all free to go.”

Both Young Bunga and Kion smiled at each other as Zazu flied out of Makuu’s mouth leaving said croc a little disgruntled at his leader’s decision.

“Fine. I wasn't that hungry anyway.”

Even still Pua then moved to make this encounter an example of what could have been had it not been for Zazu’s timely arrival and show of respect for their ways. “Kion. You and your friends should not come here uninvited again.” He sternly warned.

“Uh... Yes, sir!” Kion said understanding somewhat given that he is a baby still having yet to know right from wrong.

Wasting no time Zazu quickly ushered the two away from the float who have now opened a path for them to leave without any further trouble. “Come you two. Quickly. Back to Pride Rock before Pua changes his mind.”

After seeing enough, Twilight canceled the visual as their friends took in what they just saw in the present day.

“Huh. I forgot all about that.”

“Really? That easy to forget?” Twilight shot a knowing and disapproving look at him for instigating that in the first place.

“Well I really was a baby back then and I wasn’t known for having a great memory of every foolhardy thing I did.” Bunga defended with a shrug which did little to change the alicorn’s expression.

“Zazu jumped into Makuu's mouth to save you?” Ono asked sharing the same astonishment everyone had in the past when it happened. “That's brave.”

"Sure is not something you'd see everyday." Sunset commented in agreement.

“Well of course he had to rescue you.” Rarity commented thinking it’s predictable he would. “You're the King's son.”

“Rarity, he was in Makuu's mouth.” Kion reminded. “Not everyone can be that brave.”

“I'll say. And I know all about being brave.” Bunga agreed.

“Says the honey badger who decided it was a good idea to challenge the crocodiles in the first place?” Rainbow retorted.

“Like you’re to talk Mr. I’m going to challenge a dragon head on to a fight.” Bunga retorted back.

“Well at least I wasn’t a baby back then.” Rainbow returned a raspberry in his direction.

“All right! That’s enough!” Twilight sharply spoke up to get them to stop arguing. “And if you both are grown ups then start acting like it!” Both Bunga and Rainbow pouted in response like children would after being scolded by their parents.

“Even still it sure sounds like bravery to me.” Beshte then said with his opinion on Zazu’s heroic act.

“Maybe.” Fuli felt the need to agree to disagree.

“I’ll have to tip my hat to him when I get the chance.” Applejack said equally impressed.

“Along with throwing him a big “Congratulations for being a hero” party.” Pinkie cheerfully added.

“Maybe after Zazu is done briefing the king on the morning report which we’ll all get a chance to after the meeting today.” Twilight offered.

“About what?” Fluttershy curiously asked.

“Discussing on how to deal with the threat of Scar now that we know that he has escaped from Tartarus.” She explained. “I want to be able to know so that everyone knows of what he is planning, what he is doing, along with what he is having his guys do next, so that we can stop it before it happens.”

“How?”

“That’s something to be discussed then.”

“I guess the question now is, what’s his next move?” Kion wondered as he looks towards Twilight who returns the same look of uncertainty of what Scar is up to now.

"Whatever it is..." Sunset spoke after having gotten to know the enemy himself. "...it can't be good."

Speak of the devil, elsewhere in another part of the Pride Lands, Janja and his clan are stealthily making their way around through the bushes to avoid being spotted.

“Keep an eye out for Zazu.” The hyena leader whispered to his boys while looking out from their hiding position.

“Who-zu?” Cheezi asked having zero clue of who he is.

Said bird landed nearby them with his back turned.

“The bird. Right there.” He grunted in frustration while eyeing said target in sight.

At the same time Zazu is putting the finishing touched on his findings for the king and princesses later today at the meeting by observing the current surroundings.

“All appears to be in order here. Pathway clear, shrubs not too pointy.” He commented to himself.

“That's the bird Scar wants us to grab?” Cheezi once more asked much to Janja’s annoyance.

“Yeah.”

“But why did he want us to grab him?” Chungu once more asked.

“Who cares? When Scar tells me to do something, I do it. Just like when I tell you to do something, you do it.” Janja sighed upon seeing this is another pointless argument. “Just grab the bird!”

Wasting no time the three hyenas popped out from their hiding spot and quickly surrounded Zazu taking him by surprise.

“What is the meaning of this?” He squawked out in shock by the jump scare as Chungu places a firm paw on the hornbill’s tail feathers. “Hyenas.” His mood turned to one of dull surprise. “I should have known. What do you think you're doing in the Pride Lands?”

“Actually, we're leaving the Pride Lands. And you're coming with us.” Janja corrected.

“What? I most certainly am not!”

“Grab him and let's get moving.” Janja ordered of Chungu who quickly scooped the hornbill up in his mouth.

“Unmouth me, you brute!” Zazu defiantly demanded. “Do you have any idea who I am?”

“Ooh, ooh! I know! I know! You're Zazu.” Chungu replied yet again further annoying Janja.

“Yeah, and now that we've all been properly introduced, let's go.”

The hyenas then ran off ahead towards the Outlands with Zazu held hostage.

“You'll pay for this. I am adviser to the King. This is definitely making my Morning Report.”

Shortly afterwards, the Lion and Pony Guard along with Sunset have gathered at Pride Rock where they expected to meet with King Simba and Princess Celestia to brief them on their morning patrol before they set out to Canterlot for that important meeting with the other leaders. There, the news that Zazu is missing has reached them.

“Zazu missed the Morning Report?”

“Zazu? That doesn't sound like him.”

Both leaders of the Guard expressed finding this very concerning.

“That’s because it’s not.”

“It's never happened before.”

Both the king and princess expressed equally concerned.

“That doesn’t make any sense!”

“We just saw him a little while ago.”

Both Rainbow and Ono pointed out.

“Maybe he's just late?” Beshte suggested.

“And probably stopping for snack?” Pinkie added in agreement.

Simba however shook his head in disagreement with that. “No. It's not like him to be late. For anything. Especially the Morning Report. If he's not here, then I'm afraid something could be wrong.”

“You’re right about that.” Twilight stated as the pieces starting clicking together for her from what she is hearing from all of this with all eyes looking at her. “Something is wrong!" Then the realization strikes her. "Zazu is in danger!”

“Danger! How?!” Kion urgently asked.

“Janja and his clan captured him! Took him to the Outlands!”

“Why?”

“A fishing expedition! They want him to bite!” Twilight quickly rushed on ahead towards the Outlands.

“Twilight…” Celestia called out to her with motherly concern.

“I know! Bring the whole Guard this time around!” Twilight knew full well of what happened the last time she got the wild hair to play detective with only Sunset, Spike, and Rainbow by her side and was prepared not to make the same mistake again.

"...along with Sunset too." Celestia added as she finished.

Both Twilight and Sunset blinked in surprise before the former moved to nod her head towards the others to get them going on to the Outlands while they talk.

"Just go." Kion ordered of the Guard when Bunga, Ono, Beshte, Pinkie, and Fluttershy were all still looking on in confusion whether to go or not. "We'll catch up with you!"

Once it was just them along with Kion, Twilight spoke of her initial thoughts about her request. "Um with all due respect your majesty...I understand wanting me to bring the whole Guard alongside me but um...why have me bring Sunset along for the ride."

"Even when I'd rather not put myself through the danger that nearly got us all killed again." Sunset added.

"For two reasons. One, because you Sunset Shimmer have proven yourself invaluable for helping save Twilight back then. And two, it'll help rekindle with your hidden desire for friendship deep down. One that I think is holding up back from reconciling from your friends back at Canterlot High." The sun monarch explained much to the unicorn's uninterested in pursing the topic. "I know this is something you don't want to do but I really believe that this is better for you than just sitting inside in your room almost all day ever since you returned. Please, Sunset. As your former mentor, I kindly ask of you to do this for me." She gently implored of her.

Sunset looked back at both Kion and Twilight who while not entirely sure about putting her at risk again, both were still on board with taking in her assistance in this upcoming fight. After all, she did help Kion save Twilight's life. With her friends best advice already spoken she turned back to give her answer. "All right. I'll go with them."

"Thank you." She warmly hugged the unicorn while bringing the alicorn in too before letting them go.

Before leaving Twilight briefly turned back to give her a respectful nod and then hug to assure her of that.

“Please be careful!”

“I will!”

Twilight then set off alongside Kion and Sunset ahead with the rest of the Guard following suit.

“Don't worry, Dad. We'll find him and make sure he's okay.” Kion assured his father before moving to join the others in their quest to find and save him.

At the same time with Nyuni still nesting on the branch attached to Bupu’s horn he actually managed to start getting along with him especially since it’s paid greatly for his herd.

“See anything from up there, Nyuni?”

“Let’s see…” He looked out and managed to spot a little antelope straying from the herd. “Hey, Bupu, looks like one of the little ones is wandering off.”

“Again?” Judging from his reaction this isn’t the first time that this has happened. “Good catch, Nyuni. I'll take care of it.” Just when he set off to fetch the little guy before anything else can happen the Lion and Pony Guard managed to witness it as they ran by.

“The two of them are getting along now?” Fuli piped up to the others.

“Yep.”

“Sure looks like it darling?”

Both Applejack and Rarity replied able to call it when they see it.

At the same time Rainbow and Ono joined Twilight in the skies as they try to see if they can scan him out while Fuli moved to track Zazu by scent with Rarity and Sunset both trying to use their magic to scan him out on the ground.

“Any sign of him?” Kion asked Twilight as he ran on the ground.

“Nothing from up here.”

“We searched both our left and right from here to Flat Ridge Rock.”

“The hyenas have already taken him into the Outlands.”

The three urgent fliers all reported.

“Just keep looking!”

“We will!”

“Affirmative!”

“On it!”

He then turned to both Rarity, Sunset, and Fuli. “And you two, keep sniffing and scanning him out.”

“Of course.”

“On it, Kion.”

"Let's find him!"

All three girls complied without second thought.

“And we'll make sure he knows we're looking for him.” Bunga vowed and offered on his and Pinkie’s behalf before they prepared to break out their megaphones and loudest voices they can muster up.

But Twilight was quick to confiscate them before they could use them. “Whoa! Whoa! Hold on there! That wouldn’t be necessary!”

Everyone else sighed in relief as that spared their eardrums a heck of a headache that would have ensued had she not interfered.

“Phew!”

“Thank goodness!”

“I know!”

“I swear my eardrums haven’t recovered since joining the Wonderbolts!”

Applejack, Fluttershy, Kyoga, and Ono all commented in that order.

“Probably for the best.” Kyoga quickly assured both Bunga and Pinkie before they could get distraught. “If Zazu doesn't hear that, we'll know he's in trouble.”

Elsewhere, the hyenas have found a nice, quiet, and steamy area with a nearby pool of lava where they have the bird imprisoned in a rib cage. There Cheezi and Chungu are both laughing maniacally at his plight much to their victim’s annoyance.

“I fail to see what's so funny?”

“Really? It's funny 'cause you can't fly while you're trapped in there.” Chungu said with another laugh at his own pun. “Get it?”

“Maybe he had to be there.” Cheezi shared.

“But he is here.”

“Yeah. He ain't going nowhere.”

Both hyenas continued laughing at their own jokes while Zazu looks on like he was heard the worst jokes yet.

“Yes. So, now that you've trapped me so cleverly, what, pray tell, is the rest of your ingenious plan?”

Cheezi moved to explain. “You ain't gonna believe this, but... we don't know.”

“Yeah, we sure don't.” Chungu added. “We're waiting for Janja to come back and tell us.”

Zazu sighed as he expected it from them. “Of course, you are. Ugh. This wrongful imprisonment will not go unanswered.”

“Maybe we should just eat him.” Chungu suggested to his partner.

“You think?”

“Oh, you're thinking now? So, what would Janja think if he returned to find that you've eaten me?” Zazu reminded.

“Oh, yeah.” Cheezi smiled knowing full well of what that answer is.

“He's right.” Chungu agreed. “We gotta wait for Janja. Thanks, Zazu.”

“Honestly your plan would utterly fall apart if it weren't for me.” Zazu replied in a deadpan manner.

At the same time, Janja is personally meeting with Scar to inform him of their accomplishment inside the Outlands Volcano.

“We got the bird, Scar. So now what?”

“Now, you get Zazu to tell you everything he knows. And you listen.”

Now Janja is confused. “We went to all that trouble just to listen to that annoying, little bird?”

Scar is quick to point out why it’s a necessity. “That annoying, little bird is the King's royal adviser. He knows Simba's strengths, his weaknesses, who his allies are. In short, Zazu is keeper of all the secrets of the Pride Lands.”

Now Janja gets it. “Oh, and if he tells us, then we know all the secrets of the Pride Lands.”

“And armed with that knowledge, taking over the Pride Lands will be a simple matter. Even for you.”

“Yeah, even for me. Hyenas would rule the Pride Lands.”

“Yes.” He agreed somewhat but not entirely for obviously personal reasons. “But there's no time to waste. Zazu is very important to the royal family.” He firmly stated. “No doubt Kion and his Lion Guard along with Twilight and her Pony Guard are already looking for him.”

“Oh, I'll get him to talk, all right. It'll be easy.” Janja said with great confidence as he turns to leave the caldera in order to carry out his boss’s orders. “He hasn't shut that hornbill of his since we found him.”

As soon as Janja left, Scar disappeared with another objective in mind while this is all going on.

Back in the Pride Lands, the Lion and Pony Guard have made great time from Pride Rock to Flat Ridge Rock. Along the way they came across Zazu’s feathers to which Ono was the first to spot with Rainbow swooping in to snatch them up. At the same time, Fuli and Rarity managed to get a whiff and magical sense that the distressed friend is close. They didn’t need to even look at the crime scene to know what had happened before they pressed forward on into the Outlands thanks to the alicorn princess’s gut feeling.

Back in the Outlands where Cheezi and Chungu are guarding Zazu, the prisoner is now trying to take advantage of the duo’s idiocy to convince them to let him go.

“So...Why should I let you go?” Cheezi asked.

“Because, it's the smart thing to do. And you're the smart one.”

“Huh?”

“I'll address this to you since obviously, you are the smart one.”

“That's what I always thought.” Chungu commented with a giggle. “I just didn't think of it till now. When you said it. Hear that, Cheezi? The smart bird says I'm the smart one.”

Cheezi laughed in agreement while oblivious to the fact Zazu was referring to him. “Yeah! That makes sense.” But then he remembered. “But isn't Janja the smart one?

“Actually, I believe that you both are the smart ones.” Zazu corrected.

“Yeah, right!

Chungu hugged Cheezi fully agreeing with the bird’s assessment. “We is the smart ones!”

Zazu smiled seeing that they are buying it. “Indeed! And the smart thing to do is to let me go and tell Janja I escaped.”

“Ooh, that is smart!”

“Yeah! If we're smart, we gotta do what the smart bird says!”

Unfortunately for him just when it seems he is going to trick them into letting him go, their leader showed up at that moment.

“Oh, no, you don't!”

“Oh, dear.” Zazu sighed in disappointment that happened.

“Nice try, bird-brain.”

That comment had both Cheezi and Chungu laughing.

“Bird brain"

“Is that like a fur-brain?”

Janja groaned before leaning down to Zazu’s eye level for a between you and me moment. “See what I have to deal with?”

“I'm beginning to.”

With that out of the way, Janja pressed forward with the attempted interrogation. “Now. You're gonna tell us everything you know, bird. So start spilling some royal secrets. And fast.”

Zazu scoffed in the face of them. “Please. The three of you don't scare me.” Unfortunately for himself he wound up wrong again as at that moment the rest of Janja’s clan popped out from nearby to surround him from all angles. “Oh...That is a lot of hyenas.” Seeing that he needs a new approach he quickly proceeded to think of one fast. “Fine. Here is what I have to say.” He moved to shout. “If anyone can hear me, I'm trapped in the Outlands!”

“We already know that.”

“Yeah. We're right here. You don't have to shout.”

Both Cheezi and Chungu returned. While gullible enough to be easily tricked they are no strangers to shouting.

Janja however groaned in response. “Ugh! We ain't got time for this!”

“Oh, I'm sorry, were you in a hurry? I'll make this quick.” He shouted even louder. “I'm near the Hyena's volcano!”

Now Janja was growing impatient. “Enough screaming! Unless you'd like me to give you something to scream about. Especially seeing as how you're startin' to get me a little steamed.” He then cackled much to the hornbill’s confusion.

“Hmm? What now?” The answer to that question came when Janja pushed his bird cage towards the steam vent behind him. “No! No!” He screamed in desperation for that not to happen much to both Cheezi and Chungu’s amusement. From there, he could not risk it anymore, especially when literally backed into a corner. “All right! I'll talk! I'll talk!”

Janja smiled feeling pleased this is finally getting somewhere. “See boys? Sometimes all it takes is a little motivation.” Turning back to Zazu. “I'm listening.”

He proceeded to break out into a musical number focusing on Simba himself, but at the same time, smart enough to make it trivial and useless information hoping he can stall long enough for the Guard to hear him out and track him down.

I Have a Great Deal to Say

“Tell us more, bird-brain.” Janja pressed mid-lyrics.

Zazu continued singing with more and more trivial Intel.

“Is that all you've got?”

“Oh, no need for steam, I'll tell you much more. In fact, we might be here all day. Take it from me when it comes to the king I do have a great deal to say.”

“Well, say it already.”

He continued doing so as requested albeit not what Janja was expecting.

“That makes sense.” Chungu commented.

“Give us the good stuff, bird.” Janja continued pressing of him with his paw threatening to push him into the pool.

“No need for steam, I'll tell you much more. In fact, we might be here all day. Take it from me when it comes to the king, I do have a great deal to say.” Janja growled him into obliging to his demands. “There's much more that I know from now and long ago... in fact...”

The Morning Report

Start at 0:59 onwards to the end all while recalling the day Mufusa distracted Zazu so that his son can execute a perfect pouncing lesson.

At that moment nearby, the Lion and Pony Guard managed to catch the sound of Zazu’s singing nearby.

“Zazu!” Kion was the first to speak up upon hearing it.

“Sounds like it's coming from the volcano.” Fuli deduced.

"Straight ahead!" Sunset chimed in after pinpointing their exact location from just listening to the sound of the hornbill's voice.

“Sounds like he's flat.” Bunga added.

“Sure sounds like it.” Pinkie commented in agreement.

Twilight wasted no time in leading the team on over there. “And we have no time to waste! Let’s go!”

Back where the hyena’s are holding Zazu hostage as he finishes up singing.

The song ended shortly, but by then Zazu was still in hot water or more accurately facing hot steam right behind them courtesy of the hyena leader.

“Wait a second. You didn't tell us anything important!” Janja said in realization.

“I most certainly did. You just weren't listening.” He then sniffed out something odd. ”What is that delectable smell?” He screamed upon realizing. “It's me!”

“Steamed birdy sure smells delicious.” Cheezi commented with another laugh at his expense.

“Let him steam!” Janja laughed as he finally gives the order to have his goose cooked while Zazu screams in a panic.

“I'll talk! I'll talk!” He pleaded.

“Too late, birdy! Since nothin' good's coming out of your mouth, something tasty's going into ours.”

“Yeah.” Chungu said in agreement while he and the others all laughed together at the hornbill’s expense.

Luckily for him, the Lion and Pony Guard arrived on the scene ready to save him.

“Janja!”

“Let Zazu go!“

The Lion and Pony Guard leaders demanded.

“Oh.” Janja groaned upon seeing them appear before them again.

“Think he wants to eat the bird too?” Cheezi whisper asked Chungu.

“Maybe.”

Janja frowned in response to their idiotic thinking.

Never the less, the Lion and Pony Guard quickly sprung to action.

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end...”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Bunga and Pinkie were the first to leap into the fray

“Heya, hyenas. Zuka Zama!”

“And party time!”

With a firm tackle, Bunga leaped out of the way in time for the hyena alone to be blasted away by Pinkie’s party canon.

Kion and Twilight wasted no time in separating Janja from the rest of the pack.

“So you two came to rescue the royal advisor to the king.” He mockingly asked with a scornful and smug smirk.

“No, I came to rescue my friend!” Kion corrected.

“Our friend.” Twilight stated for emphasis before both she and Kion moved to resume their fight with Janja.

Both Beshte and Applejack teamed up as they body-slammed and bucked the two hyenas that attempted to come right at them and Zazu nearby.

“Ouch.” Zazu winced upon seeing the pain they endured along with seeing Cheezi futilely retreating when Rarity advanced towards him with karate like moves to utilize on him with Sunset jumping in and blasting the hyena away. “A-ha! That's definitely going into my Morning Report.”

Chungu himself is also finding himself having a hard time getting his teeth on the Lion Guard’s Keenest of Sight who likewise took pleasure in taunting him.

“Missed me.” He tried and failed once more. Try again.”

“Um, okay.” Chungu proceeded to keep trying up until he landed his front paws on one of the steam vents in front of him causing him to yelp in pain. “Hot! Hot!” And just a split second later…

POW!

Came from super speedy punch from Rainbow Dash herself followed by a swift rainbow trailed kick to knock the dumb muscled hyena off of his paws. And just when the hyena got up and growled, he smelled something burning and ended up yelping and springing away into Rainbow's fist when he found that Sunset Shimmer was using her magic to burn his tail.

“Nice going, Ono. You too Rainbow Dash! Sunset!” He complimented before his eyes and widen with his eyes widen upon spotting something alarming. “Oh no. They have Fuli and Kyoga backed up to the ledge leading up to the lava pool.” And judging from how the fight was going it won’t be long until the danger comes to them. “Fuli! Kyoga!” He shouted out after them in an attempt to warn them of the danger behind them.

Fuli’s eyes were too locked up on the three hyenas surrounding them. Esepecially when Kyoga managed to tackle one hyena away from her. “Little busy here, Zazu.” She irritably returned not even turning around to see what’s behind her.

"Don't worry, I'm coming!" Sunset called out to her before charging on towards them upon seeing the rest of the Guard’s already got their hooves and paws full.

With that, Zazu also moved to help them before it’s too late. “Very well. Up to me.” With full force of his willpower he was able to roll the cage that he is trapped in onwards in their direction.

”You sure you want to take me on?” Fuli growled and dared them to try even with her feet backed up to the very corner of the ledge and outnumbered.

Good thing, Zazu was able to gain downhill speed on towards her at the same time Sunset managed to make her way down. “I'm coming, Fuli!”

“Zazu?” Fuli spoke up surprised of what is happening in front of her just when he managed to roll his cage right into the two hyenas knocking them aside just when Sunset fired her magic to force them away. At the same time Kyoga managed to kick the hyena she was wrestling with flying away across the Outlands. “Whoa! Thanks, Zazu!” Fuli gratefully called out to her savior.

Zazu humbly thought nothing of it. “Just doing what has to be done.” Unfortunately the hyenas he briefly knocked out got the drop on him when one of of them knocked down the hill leading towards the lava pool. “Oh no!”

Seeing this caught both Kion and Twilight’s attention just when they both got done dealing with Janja.

“Zazu?”

“Zazu!”

Both Kion and Fuli said upon catching it with their own eyes.

“We’re coming!” Twilight called out to him as they arrived just in time to see him fall on the downhill slide leading towards the fiery pit.

Upon seeing the imminent danger he is now in, Twilight nodded at Kion as she quickly sprinted on ahead with full throttle on wing power.

“This better work.” Kion said to himself before looking on with focused eyes so he can unleash the power of the Roar to force the lava to spread out so Zazu won’t hit it upon landing.

Upon crash landing, Zazu’s cage broke into pieces thus freeing him and just when his eyes widen in alarm upon seeing his surroundings, the alicorn princess quickly managed to whisk him off of his legs before flying him on out of there.

“Gracious.” Zazu spoke up in relief as Twilight released him upon landing to safety. “Thank you, princess.”

“Don’t mention it.” She likewise humbly thought nothing of it.

“Zazu? You okay?” Kion asked.

“Indeed. Thanks to you two!” Zazu happily and gratefully returned.

At that moment Janja had managed to get himself up on his paws along with the rest of his defeated clan in time to see the glaring daggers everyone from the Guard is giving them, promising to ensue pain worse than before if they don’t quit while they’re ahead with Fluttershy quick to unleash her Stare on them.

Janja once again knew that he was beat once the yellow Pegasus started staring them down into submission. “Bird's free. Let's get outta here!”

The clan quickly followed after Janja as he led them away from the Guard.

“That bird sure told us a lot, Janja!”

“Yeah, he sure did!”

Both Cheezi and Chungu pointed out as they crossed the nearby footbridge during their escape.

“But he didn't tell us anything useful, fur-brains.” Janja reminded otherwise.

“He didn't?” Cheezi sighed upon realizing but then smiled. “Good. 'Cause I already forgot it all.

“Ooh, wait! I remember where Simba takes his bath!” Chungu recalled.

“Oh!” Janja once more can only groan in response to the dynamic duo at his expense while leading the way.

With the hyenas gone, the danger had passed.

“Come on, Zazu. Let's get you back to Pride Rock.” Kion said to Zazu wishing nothing other than wanting to get out of here in case Scar has something to say about it.

“Yes.” Zazu agreed. “You took the words right out of my beak.”

“Couldn’t have said it any better myself.” Twilight felt the same way.

"Me too." Sunset said in agreement. "And what a relief that's all over now."

By the time everyone was finally able to return to Pride Rock, it was already night time for everyone.

“And so, for today's Morning Report...” Zazu began.

Simba in return gives him a look. “The Morning Report? Really, Zazu?”

“Yes.” Zazu sighed in a mix of relief and self-disappointment. “I've never given a late Morning Report.”

“Not your fault, Zazu.”

“It was the hyenas.”

Both Beshte and Applejack reminded.

Bunga then added as he recalled Zazu’s bravery in the face of danger. “Yeah! But you should've seen Zazu in action!”

Fuli could definitely vouch for him there. “Yeah. You took out two hyenas to save me. Not everyone can be that brave. I owe you one.”

“Oh. Thank you, Fuli. Though I wouldn't be here if you all hadn't rescued me. In fact, I owe all of you one. Especially you since you knew what was going on the second it happened.” He said the last part in the princess's direction to make sure she knows it.

Twilight humbly shrugged once more. “What can I say? Just a simple gut feeling.” She quickly gestured to the others it’s something she’ll explain later in a non-verbal whisper.

Sunset said otherwise as he approached the royal advisor somewhat smugly but mostly humbly. “Not me. We've only just met recently. But I do owe you for the assist back there."

"All in a day's work. Consider us even, Sunset." Zazu returned feeling they can call it that there.

Kion then spoke feeling the same way as Sunset under different circumstances. "And the same can be said for us, Zazu. We're even. Maybe you forgot that you saved me from the crocs when I was a little cub. But I never did.”

Zazu indeed remembered what he is talking about. “Ah, yes. That was a close one, indeed. But enough reminiscing. And on with the Morning Report!” He then said as he flew by the king’s side along with Princess Celestia as they all proceeded towards the portal so they can have that meeting that was supposed to happen earlier this afternoon.

“Oh, by all means, before it's morning again.” He sarcastically returned much to the princess’s chuckling amusement when she placed a hoof to her mouth to reign it in barely but still visible to all close eyes watching.

“Well, it all began this morning! After observing Kion's clever solution followed by Sunset’s recommendation for Bupu - the sight of an antelope stuck in a tree is quite amusing, sire. I then continued my inspection of the path through the grasslands, where I encountered the hyenas. Of course we know how that turned out, don't we...?”

At the same time, Scar witnessing this from nearby managed to teleport away without being spotted with nothing but the sealed envelope in the grasp of his tail, having benefited from this whole ordeal the Guard went through…

“Excellent…” He said with sinister satisfaction.

Author's Note

After two episodes of Breather Episodes, we're now back to the main story arc with this episode and what better way to start things off is with the Morning Report only said bird for the job winds up captured leading to the Lion and Pony Guard with Sunset accompanying them to rescue him in the Outlands.

The task itself is something Sunset was initially inclined not to accept given spending time with the crew only serves to remind her of the friends that were quick to turn on her without solid proof instantly. But out of respect to Princess Celestia not wanting heartbreak and darkness consuming her like it did to both of her former students once before along with her own good heart she proved to be a big help to the team.

Next up is an investigation episode where Rainbow Dash finds himself being accused of a crime she didn't commit and is now facing his future membership with the Wonderbolts under the threat of being revoked. Her only hope to ensure that doesn't happen is relying on the help of Detective's Rarity, Ono, and Bunga to investigate and solve the case and clear her name. So be on the lookout for that sometime next week.

Oh and thank Streak Aireoso for the ideas of how to include Sunset in this story arc so far, along with including the cut song the actual and I mean actual "The Morning Report."

Episode 35: What About Discord?

Episode 35:

What About Discord?

On a nice Friday morning after breakfast, Twilight Sparkle had just pulled out all of the books from her shelves. Mainly so she can reorganize them, again.

For her it was that time of the year so that she has waited for. And the best part about it was it’s the first time she is doing this since she got her new castle alongside her best bookworm friend Ono.

Spike however, didn’t share their excitement as evident by the exasperated sigh he gave after putting forward the last of the books in the castle. “Didn’t we rearrange these books a few months ago?”

“Yes, but that’s because we needed to.” She replied while gently levitating the book Spike had in his claws before placing it onto the empty shelf along with the others. “This is because I want to! I call it my “book-sort-cation!” Three uninterrupted days of reorganizing books along with adding the recently created books on the Pride Lands history.” Her smile was especially gleeful today.

Alongside reading books, studying spells, practicing her fighting skills, playing a piano, going on patrol alongside Kion, it’s up there. And it serves as an great way to help with her mental health which has improved greatly since reforming.

“Can you think of anything more relaxing?”

Spike actually begged to differ there.
“Well, claw massages, back rubs, bubble baths…” He turns and sees that Twilight had already turned her attention back to her books. “…you weren’t really looking for an answer were you?”

“I’ve even devised a better system for organizing them. It decreases the amount of time it takes to find a book you’re looking for by three quarters of a second!”

“Whoa. That much.” Spike flatly replied while rolling his eyes. Unlike Twilight he is not exactly a big fan of books but goes along with it for her sake. He then finds himself levitated and brought in for a hug by the alicorn who is already looking forward to this weekend.

“Look at all of them! Why, there must be at least twenty thousand books to organize?”

Owlowiscous who is standing perched on a high shelf hooted in response knowing full well that this will definitely take all weekend to sort everything out.

“Best long weekend ever!” Twilight stated with brief leap of glee before seeing Spike’s unenthusiastic expression. “I’m sure we can make some time for a claw massage and a back rub. Actually come to think of it, a trip to the spa does sound great.”

And that was enough for Spike to be on board with her weekend plans. “Yes! Best long weekend ever!”

Just then Ono came flying inside with a planner binder in his talons. “Okay, now that I’ve just ensured that everything in the Pride Lands and Equestria will be fine without the Lion and Pony Guard for the next three days. I am ready to get started on the book-sort-cation with you, Twilight! And I just got a well detailed and organized agenda of how can do it and have fun together!”

“As always!” Twilight eagerly replied as the three all looked over what Ono had just prepared along with making sure she makes good o her promise to allow time for a trip to the Ponyville Spa.

Three times the sun and moon has come up a down, and by then the whole library was reorganized to both Twilight and Ono’s liking. With birds of a feather in sharing the same hobby together they were in perfect sync in deciding of how to organize it.

“I got to say, Ono. Once again your Keen Sight sure pulled through all weekend!” She complimented.

“Well I am the Keenest of Sight.” Ono replied like it’s no surprise but couldn’t help but brag a little.

“Common knowledge, really.” Spike commented as they all walked outside the castle before shielding his eyes from the glare the sun produced. “Whoa! That strange little yellow orb in the sky! What is that?!”

“Easy…” Ono was quick to answer. “…It’s the sun!”

“Well, duh!” Spike was not amused. “Sarcasm, genius!”

“Oh!” Ono realized. “Right.”

Twilight rolled her eyes in response. “All right, all right. So it’s been a while since we last saw the sun.”

“A little while?” Spike asked like it was a joke. “We’ve been in that library for three days straight.”

“Yes. But they were three very productive days!”

“Even accounting for eight hours of much needed sleep per night, spending two hours each day at the Ponyville Spa, and of course there is waking up, breakfast, lunch, dinner, cleaning up after ourselves, showering, exercising, teeth cleaning, and of course getting ready for bed. All accounting for four to six hours of the rest of the day.” Ono added much to the little dragon’s annoyance.

“Hey, you did promise a claw massage. I’m getting a claw massage.” Spike defended and asserted.

“True.” Twilight said not even denying she had to make good on her promise. “But it’s not like we missed anything.”

“Uh…Twilight…” Ono spoke up upon seeing something alarming with his eyes widening to match his expression. “…I’d hate to be a smart mouth again but you might to hold off on that last part until we DUCK!”

“Duck? Where..?” Spike asked briefly confused until he saw what was about to happen. “…WHOA!” He just managed to dodge what appeared to be a large plaid and rainbow colored blur hurling right towards them.

They crashed a safe distance from them and when the dust cleared up, they saw who and what had just nearly flew into them. Rainbow Dash and Discord who at both standing on all fours with their postures nearly identical to one another.

“Hi Twilight. Hi Spike. Hi Ono.” They greeted in unison and in perfect sync together with a raised waving right hoof and paw together.

After recovering from her shock, Twilight casually dusted herself and happily greeted them. “Hi, Rainbow Dash. Good to see you Discord.”

“Did you rehearse before you found us?”

“Or at least have the decency to be fully aware of your surroundings?”

Both Spike and Ono irritably asked not taking any humor of being near victims of an potential flying crash.

“What makes you think we practiced?”’ Both Rainbow and Discord replied in unison again, complete with perfect sync while playfully grinning to match.

Seeing this had both Twilight and Ono arch an eyebrow in response as this is clearly unusual for them to be hanging out and having fun like this together.

“Come on, Rainbow Dash. What’s going on here?” Twilight asked trying to understanding this is all about.

And that’s where Rainbow cracked by laughing hard and hugging her stomach in mid air before flying over to Discord while wrapping an arm around him.

“Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! Sorry. Me and Discord are just messin’ around. Ha, ha. Like we always do.” She explained with a wink while further stirring both Twilight and Ono’s curiosity.

“Always?” Ono asked with quizzical expression. “Since when because last time I checked this is an actual first time I’m hearing and seeing of this.”

“Oh, Ono, Twilight. We simply had a momentous time together these past three days.” Discord explained. “You could say it was hiss-terical!” The lower half of his body transformed into rattlesnake for visual emphasis on his pun to which both he and Rainbow Dash laughed hard at together.

“Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! Sneaky snake! Ha, ha, ha!”

“Oh, oh! Just snaking around!” Both laughed as Discord literally shedded out of his snake skin to boot.

“Ugh!”’ Ono rolled his eyes in response to the joke itself.

“Good one, Discord!” Both Rainbow and Discord high-fived with one another much to the princess’s surprise.

“It is?” She asked not quite understanding the joke itself.

“Kind of an inside joke from this weekend. You wouldn’t really get it unless you were there.” Rainbow explained.

“Oh. Okay.” Twilight said with nothing else to say on the matter.

Just then Bunga had arrived to join them. “Hey Rainbow! Discord! Twilight! Spike!” He happily greeted with a wave. “So glad I could run by you!” He jogged in place to match the joke he just made much his, Rainbow,
and Discord’s laughing amusement.

“I can see.” Twilight said with nothing more than a confused look on her face.

“So I assume you had a nice weekend yourself?” Bunga asked.

“Yes, I did. But judging from how many laughs are going on between the three of you you all apparently had quite the time together.”

“Yep. And man let me tell you, Discord was un-Bunga-veilablity funny these last three days.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really!” Bunga gestured her to follow after him. “Come on, we’ll explain on the way!”

“Sure. Please do enlighten me of the highlights of your time at the circus.” She sarcastically remarked.

“Well…” Bunga scratched the back of his head nervously. “…technically yes, but…” He suddenly and somehow pulled out a yellow highlighter marker from the back of his hair. “Hey, how did this get back here.” He scratched his hair some more and found some termites hiding in there. “Oh great! Snacks on the run!” He continued on ahead while munching all of the termites that tagged along for the ride on over here.

Both Rainbow and Discord laughed while following after him with both Twilight and Spike following after them. Though the alicorn is still having a hard time understanding how these “inside jokes.” they shared with Discord over the weekend are so funny.

As the three continue laughing and joking around, Twilight, Ono, and Spike hung back.

“So then i had a friend of mine trying to sweeten up a deal where he gets fresh honey from buzzing bees and guess what he tells me what his friend told him after dodging the bee stings?”

“What?” Rainbow asked.

“It was a real buzzer-beater!”

The trio all laughed together as they walked off down a different path upon arriving at a fork in thee road from the other trio. All while once more still leaving the princess puzzled.

“This is strange right?” Twilight asked the little dragon. “Since when have Rainbow, Discord, and Bunga all together had inside jokes?”

“Since sometime in the last three days. I guess.”

“Hey! No pony made you join me on my book-sort-cation.”

“I’m jokin’! I’m jokin’” Spike defended.

“With all honesty, I’m not sure.” Ono replied. I mean I see your point but it’s not hard to see that maybe they’ve managed to find common ground in a certain sense of humor. Then again it’s probably just me.”

They all pressed forward on towards the Ponyville Boutique where they greeted the fashionista unicorn in charge upon entering.

Upon hearing the doorbell ring, she spun around and stopped her current sewing project and work glasses so she can happily greet her friends walking inside. “Twilight! You’ve returned from your book sorting sabbatical!” She examined her face and then placed a hoof on her chin before lifting it upwards. “All of that organizing has done wonders to your complexion.”

“Thanks! It was relaxing!”

“It sure was!” Ono added in agreement. “Not to mention it was very knowledgeable to take in”

Fluttershy and Beshte who were also there helping assist her friend with her work had the former have a sudden giggle in her throat that no pony would ever see us usually. “Orange you glad you did.”

And not only did she laugh, Rarity did too. And so did Beshte. “Orange you glad! Oh Fluttershy, you are a card!”

“That was really good, Fluttershy!” Beshte also complimented.

“Oh, please! You’ll make me blush!” Fluttershy said as she actually blushed in response.

“You do seem to be turning a shade of…Orange.” Discord’s voice said as he appeared and transformed her best friend…

…into an actual Orange, with only her head and mane while still orange colored but not shaped into an orange. The same happened to Beshte instantly.

“Both of you!”

“Wow!” Bunga laughed alongside the others. “You two are quite the pair!”

Everyone but Twilight, Spike, and Ono all laughed and found the jokes itself very humorous. Not only are Rainbow Dash and Bunga are both rolling on the floor and holding their stomachs but even both Fluttershy and Beshte are finding it really funny. Though then again this is his best friends they’re dealing with.

Discord plucked the oranges, pealing it, causing both Fluttershy and Beshte to revert back to her normal shade of color, all while still laughing. And all while Twilight looks on very confused. Ono however looked on like joke humor has gone topsy turvy today.

“Oh sorry, darling. You see we were on the island, and, uh, ooh, how to explain…”

“Well, let me try to paint her a picture, dearest…” Discord offered while winking in her direction, much to Spike’s envious charging.

“Dearest!” He commented to himself with a pout and crossed arms as he feels that he is the only one allowed to say that to her.

The lighting dimmed as a spotlight shine over Discord as he now sported a brown Afro, mustache, and beard, sporting a light blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up and painting a picture of Mizumi Grove, all while speaking said guy’s accent.

“You see, we were at Mizumi Grove, and I ended up turning the apple trees into the most…Oh, who am I kidding?!” He immediately removed the costume, tossed the art stuff away, and changed the scene back to the current setting.

“I simply cannot do justice! You just had to be there!”

“We would’ve invited you to come along too, but we didn’t want to interrupt your organizing.” Fluttershy said as sweetly as she could.

“We know how important it is to you.” Beshte added while trying not be insensitive about it. “So hopefully no hard feelings.”

“Thank you, I appreciate that…” Twilight replied showing no ill feelings (visibly speaking) “…speaking of books, I was able to clear a shelf for those old-fashion books you wanted to donate, Rarity.”

The unicorn however begged to differ on that. “Oh, pfft, they’re not old, darling. They’re vintage.” She moved to levitate said books on over so everyone can see them in mid-air. “I’ve even included my favorites by former Canterlor designer to the stars Rocco Froufrou!”

“Oh, I love her!” Spike said with love filled eyes towards his crush.

“Him.” Rarity corrected while handing the bag to him while looking on confused and weirded out.

Spike was left blushing and feeling awkward about what he just said. “Eh. He. Both.”

“Awkward!” Bunga teasingly remarked which earned him a glare from the dragon as he sported red cheeks before walking off.

“You can organize those books later.” Rainbow said. “Let’s go catch up with the others.”

Hearing that had Twilight smile, knowing that there are more friends she can turn to in order to get a fuller and better understanding of what happened while she was sheltered up in her castle the whole weekend. Surely whatever has happened these last three days had to something explanatory if it’s all that funny to get the whole Guard bonding with Discord all so well during then.

Upon arriving at the cafe and Sugarcube Corner they were quick to greet Fuli, Sunset, and Kyoga who have all just arrived.

“Twilight!”

“Fuli! Sunset!"

“It’s so good to see you! It’s been a while!”

“Yes. Long enough.”

"Three days, exactly."

“I take it that book sort-cation really did the trick in rejuvenating you?” Kyoga asked.

“Yep. It did. And I also had Ono and Spike to thank for company along with the assistance in order to ensure that it all goes smoothly.”

“In exchange for a back rub and claw massage at the Ponyville Spa?” Fuli asked towards Spike with a knowing smirk.

“Yep.” Spike said with crossed arms and with no regrets.

“Not to mention I took the liberty of properly managing her sleep and eating schedule.” Ono added proudly.

“Sounds right.” Kyoga remarked with an amused nod.

"Makes perfect sense." Sunset said with the same expression.

“Speaking of food…” Bunga spoke up. “You know what i could go for? A hot fudge Sundae soaring!”

“Even though it’s a Monday?” Ono asked with a deadpan tone.

“Yeah!”

Just then a wave of hot fudge literally sweeped them off of their hooves and paws and had them floating inside the bakery where nine hot fudge ice cream floats are all sitting on the counter waiting for them.

“Awesome! Perfect timing, Discord!”

Said guy reappeared right before them.

“Order up!” He said now appearing yellow with spots all over his body along with wearing brown pants, a white dress shirt, and a red tie. “Good thing I got my ice cream making license because otherwise it would be a total meltdown!”

Most of the Guard, Kion, Applejack, Pinkie all laughed at the sight and the joke itself. Fuli, Sunset, and Kyoga simply shrugged along with the others before accepting the ice cream treats offered to them with only Applejack and Pinkie alone with Discord.

“Hi, Kion.” Twilight greeted.

“Oh, hey!” He happily returned. “Feeling fully relaxed from your book sorting weekend?”

“Yep.”

“Ono have fun too and have a great time doing it with you?”

“Yep.”

“Spike help out to?”

“Yep.”

“Willingly?”

“Nope.”

“Wanted a claw massage and back rub in return?”

“Yep.”

Kion then looked on feeling concerned and confused. “Everything okay?”

“Yep. Just getting adjusted to not seeing my friends in the last three days.”

“Fair enough.”

“So…” Twilight said now looking on stoically. “…i take you joined Discord and the girls after your weekend hunts?”

“Yeah.” Kion replied. “Just thought I drop by to see what the girls were doing and they there were having a heck of a time with Discord.”

“Amazingly, he was on fire with jokes and making everyone laugh.” Fuli added as she admitted. “Some of them even got a laugh out of me.”

“Really?” Twilight asked without a change of expression or tone.

“I mean it was all just joking around and having what Discord defines as fun.” Kyoga added and after getting the same vibe as Kion. “I mean it’s not exactly like you missed anything if it makes you feel any better.”

“Of course not. I mean why would I be jealous and feeling left out? So they had a weekend full of laughs. Big deal.”

Just after finishing up her sundae her pony friends from inside are laughing as they walked outside to join them. “Where was I? Oh yes! Here’s a good one!” He moved to address everyone else. “We were at the cafe just yesterday and we had just finished our soup when Applejack said…” He transforms to mimic the farm pony’s coat and mane color. “Peanut butter hoof? Yuck! Not even with jelly.”

Everyone minus Twilight, Sunset, Ono, Spike, and Kyoga all laughed especially Applejack and Pinkie Pie in response to the joke.

“I don’t get it.”’ Twilight said blankly.

“What was the point behind that?” Ono asked.

Pinkie wrapped her hoof around Twilight, while still laughing. “It was hilarious! I wish we had taken a picture for you!”

“Oh, well this should do!” Discord offered as he suddenly appeared on the table while wearing peanut butter jars on his feet while most of the Guard continued laughing.

“Okay. I guess that’s funny.” Twilight replied. “That gives me a better idea of what happened. At least one of them, now.” She said the last part to herself.

“What was that?” Spike asked.

“I said it must have been a weekend if everyone is finding Discord funny right now.”

“Somepony sorry she missed it?” Spike asked while elbowing one of her legs.

Twilight moved it away to assert otherwise. “Of course not. Others can have fun without me. There’s no harm in it.”

Spike along with Kion remained unconvinced especially since they could tell she is now suppressing her emotions and being stoic about it.

“Well…” Discord then spoke up again. “…it seems that this has become quite a sticky situation.” He removed one foot from one of the peanut butter jars with said foot completely covered with peanut butter.

“Sticky situation!” Pinkie said with uncontrollable laughter.

“Wow! Too rich!” Bunga commented equally laughing uncontrollably.

Applejack moved to speak Twilight after calming down enough to talk. “Aw, shucks, Twilight. We didn’t even ask how your weekend went.”

“It was fine.”

Suddenly Discord appeared right beside her to hug her, but even that didn’t faze her steely demeanor. “And yet you look so glum. Does somepony need a huggy wuggy?”

Twilight gently teleported herself out of his grasp before smiling. “No thanks. I am not glum. I’m glad. I’m glad that you all had such a good time together. Having inside jokes together can create a lasting bond between friends.”

“I’m just sorry that all of this bonding happened while you were holed up in your castle.” Discord apologized though Twilight wasn’t fully convinced.

“It’s all right. Really.” She insisted still smiling and sounding happy for them.

“Heh. Don’t you worry about, Twilight.” Applejack assured. “Bet you in hog’s heaven organizing’ all them books!”

“She sure was.” Ono replied to confirm that it’s a true fact. “I’d be more than happy to tell you all about it!”

“Please do.” Kyoga said with open ears as Ono started talking about the whole organization effort used to sort every book out in the library.

But just when he got started, Twilight’s smile dropped before getting up from her chair so she can excuse herself from the gathering.

“Twilight?” Kion asked as she and Fuli turned to spot her leaving.

“Everything okay?”

“Yep!” She replied without turning back or flinching.

“Okay.”

“Have a good afternoon.”

“Thank you.”

She went on ahead leaving her friends confused of why she left so soon with only Spike following after her.

“Wait for me!” He called after her while pursing her to make sure she is okay.

"Me too." Sunset called after them while following suit.

Even though she insists it, some of her friends could tell something is wrong when she is now being stoic and emotionless. Even the secretly smirking Lord of Chaos himself.

By the time Spike and Sunset were able to catch up to Twilight she was in her private study watching on at her screens showing her of what went down with the Lion and Pony Guard’s bonding time. Said screens showed her every second that depicted everything they have all described their weekend adventure together. Every word and every joke.

“Twilight?” Spike dared to speak to her while knocking on the door after peaking his head inside along with Sunset's. “Can we come in?”

“As long as you promise to not speak a word of this to anyone.” She answered still not looking back but still looking on seriously and without any emotion in her voice.

“Sure thing…” He promised as he approached his friend with caution.

"Whoa!" Sunset's eyes were immediately locked on the screens in her room. "I never knew you had personal access to video surveillance all over Ponyville."

"Well you do now. At least I didn't find out that I could do this until recently."

"Okay. Sounds interesting." Deep down that leaves room for more questions and truth but with other things in mind she decided not to pursue the matter further.

To both of her friends, that pretty much tells them almost everything they needed to know. She is definitely mindset and bothered by what happened behind her back last weekend.

Upon sitting next to the chair next to her, Spike pulled up a bowl of rubies as he moved to strike up a conversation with her. “So, I guess you now see what fun and inside jokes they’ve all had together the last three days?”

“Yes.” While she sees what and why the jokes are all funny. She still didn’t laugh finding humor in it. “I can’t believe I missed out on all of that bonding.” She voiced sounding a bit disheartened despite not showing an expression to match it.

“I knew it!” Spike stated upon finishing his most recent jewel while gulping it down. “You are jealous!”

“Spike…” She turned to face him. “I’m the Princess of Friendship. I don’t get jealous. At least not over something like this.” She turned her eyes back to the monitors. “I know I can’t be there for my friends for every moment of the day. I know that it’s normal that others can share quality bonding time and jokes with one another without me. I also know that Discord is trying to run another one of his games on me.” She turns back to Spike. “But I’m not about to let it drive me crazy.”

“Come again?” Spike looked on unsure and unconvinced while munching on another red ruby.

“It’s simple. I just do nothing and show Discord that he’s not making me jealous.” She explained. “I just act like nothing had ever happened.”

“By what logic? The magic of science?”

“No. No logic. No magic. Like I said, nothing.”

“Or you could just admit you’re jealous and tell them of how you really feel about being left out of the weekend they had together.” Spike suggested. “Because if I remember right trying to bottle up your emotions never ends well, no matter how long it takes and how little you show it.” He pulls out said basic book of magical learning of properly dealing with emotions. “It’s a fact! Like you said!”

"And I did read that book just recently." Sunset recalled.

“Touché.” She nodded with a look of respect at him. “But I’m quite certain no one’s going to tell that it’s bothering me.”

“I wouldn’t be too sure.” Spike replied still sure otherwise. “It’s a pretty clear indicator that if you’re being cold and emotionally distant, that something is definitely wrong. Much like the Princess of Darkness would do.”

“We’ll see.” She said while turning back to the monitors while watching the events that happened between them unfold. All while taking notes and highlighting the very little details that stand out that for them bonding together.

"Twilight..." Sunset spoke up hoping to talk with her. "...if it isn't jealousy, then is it possible that Discord bonding with the others without you is something else? Like feeling left out or convinced that everyone else is better off without you, something like that?"

The alicorn stopped writing notes and briefly turned back to Sunset with a surprised look before turning back and only replying with. "No."

As she turned ahead back to her private screens, Sunset looked on as she might have truly touched a nerve of what's really bugging her about it. Question is what?

The next day, the Lion and Pony Guard got together for morning patrol which was another ordinary day in the Pride Lands.

Helping stuck animals free themselves. Saving them from injuring themselves. Settle disputes between one party and another. And of course keeping the Outsiders out of the Pride Lands while keeping full alert for anything Scar and Starlight might do.

Thankfully nothing too serious or dangerous on the horizon that required them to go into the Outlands which is getting more and more dangerous with every passing day.

Aside from that, there is of course the Lion and Pony Guard. While nothing bad happened throughout the patrol they all got concerned about Twilight.

Just like Spike predicted who joined them this time around out of concern for her well-being. They’ve noticed that Twilight has been remarkably reticent today. Only speaking to give orders and checking up on one another. In addition showing little to no emotion.

Just after finishing their patrol, Twilight was prepared to fly off ahead back to Ponyville when a voice called out to her for her to stop.

“Twilight!” Kion called out.

“What?” She asked with an arched eyebrow.

“Everything okay?”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Because you haven’t quite yourself today.”

“Yeah.” Beshte spoke up in agreement. “I’ve noticed that you’ve been acting um…awfully quiet today.”

“How so?” She ask trying to act otherwise.

“You know. Like Fluttershy like quiet or even Kyoga like quiet on a good day.” Bunga replied. “No offense.” He quickly added to both girls.

“None taken.” Both girls replied in unison.

“But seriously though…” Kyoga spoke up. “…are you sure nothing’s wrong, Twilight? Because it’s pretty clear that something is up with you.”

“It isn’t because of how much fun everyone else had with Discord last weekend?” Ono asked.

“No.”

“Really?” Fuli wasn’t buying it. “Nothing very specific that’s truly upsetting you?”

“Why would I be upset? Like i said before it’s great that friends are able to spend time with each other even if one friend isn’t a part of it.”

“But it really does bother you doesn’t it?”

“I don’t see how.”

“I do!” Pinkie spoke up cheerfully.

“You do?”

“Of course, silly filly!” Pinkie stated while affectionately ruffling the alicorn’s mane. “Because you weren’t there to see why it was all so funny!” She then moved to pull forward a graph with notes and pictures on it. “So if we tried to show you of what exactly happened back then, you could use it help further friendships across Equestria and the Pride Lands, along with creating and showing you the breakthrough of the magic of science!”

Her friends looked on curiously while some looked on puzzled and skeptical in response.

“Really?”

“Yes, really! Just like what you would have wanted! Come on!” Pinkie rushed off ahead to get everything together so they can properly reenact the whole experience.

“I guess I’ll get Discord.” Fluttershy said seeing there is no point in trying to talk the hyperactive pony against doing it yet still clearly confused by that random spur of the moment thing Pinkie just said.

“This should be interesting.” Twilight commented dryly.

While it wasn’t really what she was thinking or why she was truly feeling off but she is willing to entertain herself with it. If it meant distracting everyone from getting to the root of things, great.

Though Spike, Kion, Sunset, Kyoga, and even Applejack weren’t convinced and could see that their friend is definitely dodging her true feelings in the matter. And it is not doing herself any good for her emotional well-being.

Sometime later the whole group with Discord gathered with them gathered right at the Ponyville park where Twilight speaks while standing on a bench with Spike by her side.

“Thank you for coming. I wouldn’t have asked you here if it wasn’t so important.”

“I love important.” Pinkie eagerly commented.

“Me too!” Bunga added in agreement.

“I want to know how these funny moments you shared come to pass. I can use this data to help advance friendships all over Equestria and the Pride Lands.”

“Well, I like the sound of that.” Applejack commented sounding eager herself to help her experiment with it along with the other ponies. Even though she is just playing along with it given that her friend’s not fully ready to emotionally open up to her insecurity about the whole bonding without her and with Discord experience.

“Perfect.” Twilight said feeling on board and satisfied. Then let’s begin with the snake.”

Both Rainbow Dash and Discord could barely contain their laughter as they recalled said memory.

“I don’t know if we can get it out! It’s too funny!”

“Oh, but we must! It’s for the greater good!”’ Discord insisted before moving to explain the joke itself. “It all started when we were helping Apple Bloom and Beshte with the garden, and then Rainbow Dash saw a snake.”

“I think it was a garden hose.” Bunga commented while stifling his giggling.

“It was a hose snake, super deadly.” Rainbow added.

“I recall it bein’ a large stick that looked like a hose that in turn resembled a snake.” Applejack recalled.

“Point is, we galloped away!” Pinkie then said.

“And it chased after us!” Bunga added.

“The hose? A snake? A stick?” Twilight asked pretending to make sense of it even after knowing what happened back then.

“A snake!” Rainbow stated.

“A hose!” Fluttershy stated next.

“A stick!” Bunga stated last.

“We literally trotted for our lives. Isn’t that hilarious?”

“Sure sounds like it.” Twilight commented.

“I guess you had to be there.” Fluttershy repeated as she giggled at the memory again.

While she was able to see why it was funny now, she still could barely contain her own disappointment of not being there to enjoy that with them. But it was only for a split second as she smiled getting another idea in her head.

“You’re right. I do need to be there.”

“But you weren’t. And it’s already happened.” Rarity reminded until her eyes widen when she thought of what her friend is thinking. “Ooh, are you suggesting…?”

“Time travel?!” Pinkie finished while now wearing an orange space jacket with matching glasses and a watch. All while the Back to the Future theme plays in the background…

…Well more accurately, Bunga having accrued a radio that played said music from behind.

“Bunga!” Fuli stated while glaring at him upon seeing what he is doing.

Bunga chuckled nervously before putting g the radio aside. “You got me.”

“Absolutely not!” Sunset firmly stated while shaking her head against the idea. “Time travel is not something to messed with. You do that then you might alter things that'll make things worse for everyone."

"Sunset's right!" Twilight stated in agreement. "We simply need to recreate everything that led to these jokes.”

“Really?” Fuli asked with a skeptical eyebrow. “And just how exactly do you propose you’re going to that?”

“Simple. By reenacting the whole events of said weekend.” The alicorn replied like it is no brainer.

Before anyone from the Lion Guard could question it, Discord quickly supported it. “Oh, what a brilliant idea! Shall we begin with the lunch that kicked off that glorious weekend you missed out on?”

“Sure. Since that seems to be our best starting point.” She replied nonchalantly.

“Excellent.” Discord replied somewhat mischievously.

“As long as you’re sure that this isn’t some sinister plot to make me jealous.” Twilight added. “Because if it is, it’s really not working…”

“What?!” Discord feigned innocence. “Me make you jealous?! I would never dream of doing anything like that.” He had clouds depicting said visual appear and disappear in a flash before moving to get everyone together to recreate it himself while leading the way back into town.

While Twilight watches on ready to be enlightened further, some of her friends, especially Kion, Sunset, and Spike looked on in great concern for their friend.

Hopefully in their minds, Twilight will come around to be honest about her true feelings instead of dragging it on longer than she should be.

At the same time, a certain unicorn was spying on them while hiding behind the nearby trees before taking her leave without being spotted just narrowly missing Sunset's eyes when she thought she saw someone lurking around.

In order to recreate the first memory without resorting to time travel, the gang had went back to the cafe from yesterday. There they were at a table which had a white table cloth placed on it to which Twilight examined closely given her desire to get every detail down perfectly. Though deep down she already knew it was already perfect right down to the table placement.

“Are you sure it’s this table?”

“Uh, does it really matter?” Ono asked in confusion.

“Of course! When it comes to science, everything matters. One change to the equation could ruin the experiment.”

"Does it really?" Sunset remarked while looking like pursing perfection is a waste of time much like said and current experiment they are working on.

Naturally, Discord is quick to take advantage of this. “Ohhhhhh…it was this table here.”

He guided everyone to said table he is standing in front of before everyone moved to sit down at said table. During which, Discord moved to be a proper gentlemen and assisted in helping Fluttershy get seated.

“All right. So you sat at this table, then what happened?”

Rarity magically levitated the menu into her hooves before explaining. “Oh well, I first started expressing my displeasure with the design of the menu. It…”

“I’m sorry to interrupt, but i just noticed something.” Discord suddenly said.

“Like what?” Twilight asked.

“The tablecloth. It isn’t really the same color as the one the restaurant used on the day in question.”

“Is that right?” Twilight asked the others as they glanced down at the white table cloth in front of them.

“He is.” Rarity replied as she too remembered what he is talking about. “The tablecloth was red. I remember because it clashed with the font of the menu’s.”

“Sounds about right.” Fuli whispered to Kion and Kyoga with the latter nodding in agreement.

“I don’t suppose this means we’re going to need a new tablecloth, does it?” Ono asked with a groan.

“Oh, most definitely.” Thankfully, getting one wasn’t a tall order since Discord managed to change it to red with a snap of his fingers.

“Awesome!” Bunga stated just when he appeared wearing a black and red magician’s outfit. “Abracadabra!”’ He waved his magical wand out and flowers appeared on the table inside the glass vase centerpiece. “And that’s what I remember happened next.”

“Makes perfect sense.” Fuli commented with deadpan expression.

“One change to the equation could ruin the experiment. Twilight said so herself.” Discord said as he had Twilight appear wearing a lab coat and safety goggles “Now before we continue is there anything that stands out as being different to you. Anything at all?”

“Anything at all?” Bunga repeated while perfectly in sync with Discord’s movements and posture.

Fluttershy raised her hoof to speak up. “Um, I’ve noticed a couple of things.”

“Me too!” Pinkie also stated.

“Excellent!” Discord said while magically having a quill and notebook appear in Twilight’s hooves so stay we she can personally write down and record everything in her notes.

"Oh, no." Sunset groaned while burying her face in one of the nearby tables just knowing that is going to take a while before everything's 'properly' ready.

Twilight looked on pleased yet secretly entertained as she is starting to see things unfold before her.

Courtesy of Discord, they proceeded to rear rang everything little detail around them in order to recreate exactly what went down that Friday afternoon. And of course it was dragged on for quite a while much to Kion, Fuli, Ono, Kyoga, and especially Sunset’s growing annoyance.

For Ono especially so since he is now helping Rainbow Dash properly adjust the clouds to the perfect place as it was last Friday afternoon.

“A little to the left! No, my left!” Discord instructed the two while waving orange sticks for guidance while wearing a matching orange vest and goggles like guiding a plane landing. “A little more…Oh, no, no, no, no, no, a little more right.”

“The cloud over our table looked like an ice cream sundae!” Pinkie pointed out.

Discord quickly reached out and stretched the cloud so that it is indeed shaped like an ice cream sundae.

“Perfect!”

While this was happening, Twilight continued to take notes as this was all perfectly depicted in what she truly saw in her private study. All while Kion looks on in dismay with how far she is taking this and Sunset is practically and painfully resisting the urge to lose her temper with each and every bang on the table.

As much as Spike wants to tell him, he knows full well that Twilight will kill him should he say a word about her secret spying on others. But at the same time, they know she is just using this as a distraction from her true feelings about the whole fun their friends experienced.

While Ono was a little disappointed that he wasn’t around along with Kion, Fuli, and Kyoga, he never let it get to him. Then again, who’s to say that he wouldn’t get jealous if his position on the Guard is threatened.

Next, Discord moved to inspect the temperature of the soup placed on the table with a thermometer. “No, no, no, no, no, this is barely room temperature! Garçon! Garçon, over here!” A second Discord exited the cafe so he can properly heat it up under the watchful note taking eye of the princess.

The reenactment of every little detail continued throughout the afternoon, right up to the point Discord danced around with peanut butter jars on his feet. All while everyone laughed together. All but an annoyed Kyoga and Fuli, an exhausted Ono, a fuming unicorn about to literally burst into flames, and the still steely alicorn princess with nothing but a smile of satisfaction on her face.

To her it was exactly like the memories her magic showed her back home but it was very brief due it reminding her why she wasn’t taking the displayed humor and jokes in stride. It was like it was all hitting too close to her deep roots and home for her.

Discord after dancing was the first to take to notice of this. “No? Nothing.”

To fully mask her true feelings she had this to say in response. “Are you sure, there’s nothing you missed? Some other detail about your lunch you’re forgetting?”

Discord yawned in response. “Well I don’t know about you but I feel we’ve been pretty exhaustive with our attempts of every single detail of our previous encounter.” The other couldn’t help but agree with him there. They have been nothing but cooperative and patient through the whole afternoon, yet nothing is clicking for their princess friend.

“Yeah, Twilight. If you don’t get by now, I don’t think you’ll ever get it.” Rainbow said in agreement.

Discord magically zapped up a ticker tape machine while donning clothes that a school professor would wear before examining the paper it produced. “Well prepared we should look at the data we’ve collected.” He gasped in realization. “There is one last variable we haven’t accounted for.”

“What?”

“You!”

“Me.” Twilight looked on acting confused of why he was literally pointed fingers and claws at her of all ponies when all she was doing was trying to observe the fun they had last weekend.

“You weren’t there observing us. No matter how hard we try, we can’t possibly recreate our weekend of fun exactly as it happened because you’ll always be watching and you weren’t there.”

“He makes a good point.” Pinkie admitted.

Admittedly as harsh as it was, it was a valid assessment. Her not being there doesn’t allow her to fully understand the humor in all of it. Though it wasn’t exactly what was bugging her.

“Sorry, Twilight.” Beshte tried to say sympathetically to her. “We did everything you asked of us.”

“As hard as it is to accept it, it has only served to prove that moments of levity and bonding between friends simply cannot be recreated so that others might share in that experience.” Discord further said.

“Another good point.” Bunga commented in agreement.

Rarity then moved to try to comfort her. “Oh, don’t worry darling. I’m sure they’ll be plenty of other chances for you to share in the kind of…” She giggled briefly. “…frivolity with Discord while you were away.”

“Yeah!” Rainbow chimed in. “And I’ll bet they’ll be just as hissssss-terical!” Rainbow moved her arms around like a snake to resemble the joke before bursting out laughing once more along with Discord.

“Absolutely!”’ Bunga stated in agreement while laughing alongside them and most of the pony friends following after them.

“I’ll bet.” Twilight said with a small and brief smile before turning to the others. “Thanks anyways to you all for trying.” She then moved to excuse herself from the group once more with only Spike tailing after her again followed by Kion, Fuli, Sunset, and Kyoga tagging along too.

“Twilight!”

“Wait up!”

“We need to talk!”

At the same time the others stopped laughing upon seeing that emotionless exterior surfacing up once more. Their concern for the alicorn princess has further increased and they are all left them wondering if they’re really hurting her feelings without realizing it.

By the time the five friends have found Twilight, she was calmly reading one of her books in the castle library.

“Twilight.” Kion was the first to speak to her upon spotting her but she didn’t look back. “Twilight! We have to talk!”

“About what?” She stoically asked.

“About the whole Discord situation.” Fuli added while moving to speak face to face with her. “Because clearly it is really bugging you deep down no matter how hard you try to insist otherwise.”

"And you are clearly worrying everyone around you the more you act like this." Sunset added while following suit.

“Please, Twilight. We just want to help you.” Kyoga implored of her to open up.

Twilight lifted her eyes from her book before speaking. “You all want the truth? Fine.” She closed her book before rising from her chair and paced around the room. “While everyone else seems to be bonding with Discord very well, it’s without ulterior motives.”

“Like how so?”

“Because while sincere with the others, I know that he has convinced them not to invite me for the sole purpose of leaving me feel left out. And because of that, I have little reason to trust him now.”

“And how do you know that?” Kion asked.

She simply placed a hoof on his forehead which allowed her to magically show him of the times to when his and her backs were turned along with the others, Discord was taking overly eager glee at seeing Twilight feel left out. After seeing all there is to see she removed her hoof and looked on with a “Believe me, now?” glance.

“Right. I believe you…now.”

“And you can now see why I don’t buy it. Not even for a second. There is definitely something going on here.”

“But even still…” Spike moved to further implore of her. “…maybe just maybe you should just drop this whole thing and admit you’re jealous or what's really upsetting you.”

“Even if I’m not able to laugh at what happened, I should be able to figure out why they found it funny. Why they think they had this amazing and hilarious time together. But I can’t figure it out. It doesn’t make sense.”

“Maybe there are just some things that just can’t be explained.” Spike suggested.

“Then I guess there is nothing else to discuss.” She said before moving to turn back to her chair and book.

“Twilight.” Kion implored of her before teleporting right in front of her while pushing his paw onto the book to get her to look at him. “Please, listen to us. I know that this isn’t easy to admit, but you’ll feel much better if you just be honest with us for once here. So please just tell us of what is really bugging you.”

“I’ve already told you. I am not jealous that everyone else had fun with Discord and I didn’t.” Twilight asserted once more. “So it happened and I didn’t understand the jokes. Big deal.”

“But it is a big deal since it’s clearly affecting you! If you’re not truly jealous then what do you really think about them hanging out with Discord?” Sunset moved to press of her friend.

“Do you feel lonely like an outcast?” Kyoga asked.

“Or just the friend no one likes?” Fuli also asked.

Twilight looked on at Kion and the rest of her friends with stunned silence for a few seconds before saying. “It’s more complicated that that.” She moved to walk off ahead unable to relieve the true roots of of the answer itself.

As she walked off ahead while resisting the urge to cry, the others looked on ahead feeling they really touched a nerve.

“Think maybe we overdid it just a bit?” Spike asked the others.

“Yep.” They all replied in unison.

“Or maybe we just need her to be able to feel more comfortable telling us.” Kion suggested before thinking of an idea. “And I might know someone who can help us out with that.”

"Who?" Sunset curiously asked...

"Oh." She then said now surprised once she found out who.

Said someone happened to be none other than the zebra living in the middle of the swamp, Zecora who is currently adding ingredients into her boiling cauldron. Said cauldron had a green glow which gives away its mystic vibe.

“So what do you think?” Kion asked after explaining the whole situation to her.

“I think this thing Twilight feels is truly a sting. Like this memory rings a bell like a ding.”

“Like something like this has happened before?” Fuli asked.

“Indeed. Your friend is having this block. A lone bird flying alone from the flock. Only until she opens this hole can she feel whole.”

“Any idea of how we can do that?” Kyoga asked.

The zebra simply smiled as she picked up a bottle from her shelf with her mouth and handed it to her. “This potion will break the spell, then you will be able to tell.”

“Okay.” Fuli looked on still very uncertain about the idea itself. “One small problem. Trying to trick her into taking it.”

“Along with actually making her drink a truth serum.” Kion added knowing full well she is too smart to be tricked like that.

"I know I wouldn't be fooled myself." Sunset remarked given her past experience of always being on guard and un-trusting towards others even when they are being nothing but nice to her. But then she thought of something else that could work. "Unless..."

"It actually helps us in getting her what we really want her to do." Kion finished after coming to the same conclusion.

"What do you mean?" Spike asked before pondering his thought process himself. "If we can't get her to drink it, then she'll want to use it on her friends and..." He then realized. "...Ooh. I see where you are headed with this."

"Exactly!" Kion smiled in return feeling certain that this is the best way to get through to her.

But then Spike's smile faded as he realized something as he turned to Zecora. "Wait. If that's the potion, then what's brewing in your cauldron?" He pointed to the bubbly substance in the cauldron.

"It ties the room together and emits a warm glow. But if I am to be honest, it's just for show."

"Oh, right."

"Interesting. I never would have thought of that." Sunset commented as she had nothing else to say about that.

That night, Twilight was continuing to read her book in the library still emotionally suppressed when Spike entered the room. He moved to place it onto the table.

"Hey, Twilight."

"What is it, Spike?" She asked while turning back to him along with the potion he brought. "And just what are trying to do?"

"Me? Nothing!" Spike feigned shock. "Not trying to trick you into drinking a potion that could break whatever spell anybody has on others if that's what you're thinking."

Twilight looked on unconvinced with an arched eyebrow in response before smiling when she levitated the bottle up close to her. "No. But you did provide a way to finally figuring out the truth of what's really going on."

"So I did." Spike said acting like that was a surprised result when really it was exactly what Kion wanted to do as he smiled to himself. To them, the plan is now set in motion.

The next day, The Lion and Pony Guard minus Kion, all gathered together around the map table when Twilight asked them to come. By then it was sunrise when Applejack first opened the double doors to enter the castle.

"I wonder why she asked us here so bright and early." Applejack asked everyone while yawning.

"Another map adventure, perhaps?" Rarity guessed.

"If that's the case then our cutie marks should be glowing." Ono commented with dull surprise.

"So very true." Fuli commented in agreement. "Though I hope she's doing better than yesterday."

"Yeah!" Bunga agreed. "Last thing we need is to be walking right into a trap by her."

Just then the doors of the royal palace opened up and Twilight entered the room, with a wide and bright smile on her face. She sure seemed to be in a better mood which sparked relief amongst the group. At the same time, Spike gave Fuli and Kyoga a thumbs up, to which they returned a wink in response.

"Hey, gang!" Twilight happily greeted.

"Hey Twilight! You're sure looking excited." Bunga equally happy greeted back.

"I am excited! We're gonna have fun today!"

Upon hearing this, both Pinkie Pie and Bunga high fived, "Yes!"

"And kick things off, I made a special morning drinks to help wake up all up and boost your energy." Twilight presented a tray of drinks, smoothies, onto the table, where there is enough for everyone to have a drink with some leftover juice in a pitcher. Little do they know, is that the juice in the pitcher is really the remaining potion inside.

Suspecting nothing, they all graciously accepted the drinks, though Bunga looked on suspiciously at her, correctly suspecting something. "Are you sure this is really a smoothie with a boost inside and not a magical potion to break whatever spell you think Discord has placed on us?"

Twilight remained calm and composed as she looked back at him. "Nope."

"All right." Bunga immediately smiled and drank his drink while everyone else did the same.

"Wait!" Pinkie realized. "This has potion mixed inside of this?"

"Yes."

"Nice! Got anymore?" Pinkie and Bunga both spotted the pitcher and quickly rushed over so they can drink the remaining potion down.

Before anybody could even question Twilight about it, the doors opened again just when Discord entered wearing a fishing outfit, while carrying a fishing pole. "Hi, Twilight! The gang mentioned we'd all be hanging out together today!"

"The gang?" Twilight asked with an arched eyebrow, while both Pinkie Pie and Bunga drank the bottle full of potion.

"Yeah! The peanut-butter-hoof gang!" He moved to tap dance with his feet in the jars of peanut butter again, thus making the group (minus Fuli and Kyoga) laugh once more. Especially Pinkie Pie and Bunga after they both got done drinking the whole bottle.

"It's still funny!"

Twilight was literally jaw dropped stunned. The potion had no effect on everyone who took it, which only proved that everything they did with Discord was genuine.

"So much for that whole "spell" theory." Applejack whispered to Twilight before continuously laughing along with the others and Discord.

Twilight hoof palmed herself in the face, groaning angrily. "Ugh. But it's still not funny!"

"It's funny if you were there." Rainbow Dash replied.

"But I wasn't there!"

The laughing immediately ceased after hearing that last statement. All eyes looked on at her as the princess began ranting and crying her heart out.

"I wasn't included! Maybe it's my own fault for staying in and having a book-sort-cation when I could have been making jokes and memories and having a great time with my friends! But I didn't do that, did I?! You all did! You were all there but—!" The princess paused for a moment before taking in a deep breath in sadness. "I wasn't there. I missed out. And seeing you having all these jokes I wasn't a part of and couldn't understand made me…"

"Jealous?" Spike asked.

"No..." She answered while shaking her head. "...left out." She sighed as deep down she wished this part of her life remained a closed chapter in a book she'd hope she would never have to read again.

In the Outlands back when she was fighting for Scar, she was hard at work and practicing her form both with and without magic when she heard some commotion nearby. Curious and cautious like always, she moved to personally investigate it. As she drew closer and closer to the source of the nearby laughing like others are joking around, she spotted something she never expected to see in her circuit.

Discord himself, laughing and entertaining the other Outsiders like they are all having the time of their lives having set up a party himself complete with cake, treats, balloons, and gifts. Ushari himself is slithering and hissing his tongue and fangs at Janja and Reirei who are both playfully feigning fear as the skinks are following by the cobra's side.

"Oh, no. Not the fangs. I'm so scared."

"I don't know how much longer I can keep running out like this."

"Hopefully long enough that you don't get a taste of my venom. Either way it's pretty hiss-terical for me!"

Both Janja and Reirei laughed along with Ushari as they kept playing around while Mzingo and his flock were eyeing something very peculiar about the table cloth on the nearby table.

"Excuse me, Discord?" The leader of the flock spoke up to get the Lord of Chao's attention.

"Yes!"

"I'm sorry but I couldn't help but notice something quite unusual about the cloth used to cover the table for our snacks and refreshments."

"Okay."

"Well it's...well it's... not quite my color..." Said cloth happens to be white with red lines creating squares at every corner.

"Oh, I'm sorry. Allow me..." To remedy this with a snap of his fingers he made the vulture and the rest of his flock appear with white red feathers and red markings with the lead vulture himself now having peacock feathers on his tail. "...there! All better!"

"What?! But...?!" Mzingo was now mind boggled at what Discord did to him along with his tail-feathers.

"Well you did tell me this table cloth wasn't your color so, I did you all a favor by making it your color, literally." DIscord chuckled just when oranges appeared from the sky. "Orange you glad I did that."

All of the vultures minus Mzingo agreed and then laughed. "Oy!"

"Now, let's eat..." One of the vultures proposed.

"Oy!"

"What?! But?! Oh, no! Fellow vultures! You can't be serious..." Mzingo groaned as they all moved to dig into the table of refreshments and treats offered to them. "...this is so humiliating."

"Don't worry, you'll get used to it." Discord assured before dancing around the area with peanut butter jars on his feet much to the other Outsider's amusement.

All while Twilight watches on as Discord gets along quite well with the Outsiders much to her own dismay. All while wondering to herself... "Why this is happening?! Why wasn't I invited nor informed of this party?!" She then looked down rather hurt and downcast as she further thought to herself. "What? No one invites me? I might not be a pony into friendship but that doesn't mean I like to party down once in a while."

While Twilight herself walks away as she moved to get back to resume her solo training, Scar himself looms over her progress unnoticed while looking on feeling very satisfied with what he is seeing. And with that mentally, he can get her to focus and be ready for what's to come as they prepare to make progress on taking over Equestria.

After finishing telling her of this flashback she then looked down in shame while the others looked on at her, even Discord who could not believe how deep a nerve he ended up touching up.

"I didn't want to admit it because, for all that we had in common, jealousy is the one thing we don't share. So seeing you all have fun together without me reignited that feeling and further reminded of why I didn't want to make new friends initially. But now that I'm the Princess of Friendship I now see things differently and just couldn't find it in myself to relieve that ever again. Not when I now set a high bar for what friendship is now defined to be."

"If it's any comfort, you didn't disappoint anybody, Twilight." Kion spoke to her as he entered the room to approach his best friend. "Even after hearing every word you just said."

"Of course you did." Twilight said while looking aside still ashamed while at the same time the pieces were all being put together in her head. "Even when you tried to speak to me heart to heart I was the one who couldn't find it in mine to return it."

"At least you're opening up now." Kion said feeling pleased that she is not evading and avoiding him this time around. "Remember back when we first met before forming the whole Lion and Pony Guard together?"

"Yes."

"Well a wise pony even back then once told me that even though my dad can be a little overly serious and a sticker for tradition he truly cares and wants nothing more than for me to grow up and succeed. And she also told me that I had what it takes to be a leader even if he makes mistakes sometimes. And now this lion grew up to become the Prince of Friendship alongside you who is now telling you the same thing. Even with jealously and loneliness blinding you, you are still a pony who like everyone else can make mistakes every now and then and that's perfectly normal."

"Are you sure, that exactly what I said?" Twilight asked with an arched eyebrow.

"Well..." He smiled and looked aside. "...more like what Rafiki would say..." Upon seeing the surprised looks from everyone. "...I may have figured out how to speak his language in my sleep when I'm not at Pride Rock."

"That does make sense." Twilight recalled him saying something along the lines during a few nights he was at the castle sleeping over in her room.

Kyoga approached the princess, smiling compassionately as she added. "None of us will think any less of you for feeling that way. One moment out of every blue moon does not define a pony's character, Twilight. And that's coming from one princess to another."

"We're sorry if we made you feel left out." Fluttershy added apologetically.

"Along with causing you to feel that way." Beshte added equally apologetic.

Twilight hung her head in response. "You didn't do anything wrong. You're allowed to share things that don't include me."

"And you're allowed to feel a little jealous about it." Fuli further assured. "You just have to be able to admit that that's what you're feeling so you can let it go."

"And, you know, not try to make us recreate everything that happened when you weren't around." Rainbow added.

"Fell better now that you let it all out?" Sunset asked, to which she nodded yes in response.

"Yeah. Even though I got tricked into doing so."

"Oh...how so?" Kion looked around while darting his eyes around nervously.

"And why would you think that?" Kion nervously asked.

"You know." She levitated the empty bottle to Kion's face. "Trying to trick me into drinking this yet knowing this could be used to get me to open up of what I truly thought about all of this."

"Yes." He nervously replied feeling like he is now in trouble. "Please don't get mad. It was the only way I could get you to admit what you're feeling before anything bad could happen to you. Really."

"It's true, Twilight." Sunset moved to back him up. "From someone who can see eye to eye there, we really didn't have any other choice."

Twilight without speaking a word gestured them to come to her with a pointed hoof towards the ground to which they reluctantly obeyed. Just when they did so, she brought him in for a hug while ruffling Kiom's mane.

"Hey!"

"Gotcha!" She returned with a teasing smirk after he escaped her grasp. "And thank you both. That was pretty clever of you to do that." She turned to his accomplices. "And the same can be said for your friends who assisted you with it."

"Well, he did ask me to bring it you." Spike smirked while the girls just shrugged.

"And whether it's me, Kyoga, or Kion, you would have figured it out instantly." Fuli added.

"No question about that." Kyoga agreed while nodding with a pleased smirk of her own.

Just then Discord suddenly appeared from behind, thus startling her once more.

"So uh, just wondering, no hard feelings about what happened last weekend?"

"Of course not. I mean it's not like you had ulterior motives behind this? I mean I have to say it must be quite meaningful that my friends were able to bond with you over the weekend as much as the Outsiders. And it would sure be nice to be able to do the same with you."

He nervously gulped before chuckling. "Yeah, it sure would be."

"Discord..."

"Hmm..."

"Do you have something you wish to tell me?" She asked with focused eyes as she flew up to his eye level.

"About what?"

"Something very important that could help us become friends even more?"

"Important?" Discord legs were briefly shaking as he tried to keep his composure.

"Like how you managed to get to be friends with the other Outsiders while I was too focused on my training with Scar? Hmm." She asked with her horn right in front of his neck with an eager smile.

Discord was already on edge feeling like she is onto him when really she is just trying to be a better friend to him, before getting down on his knees, crying and grovelling before her and then hugging her. "Okay, okay! You got me! I had some fun with the other Outsiders as I really wanted to get them to have fun while being welcomed into the army with open arms. And I made sure to have them not tell you about it nor invite you and I may have had a little to fun with it once more knowing that you'll learn your lesson about bottling these feelings up and..."

"Wait, what?!"

Discord released the princess before nervously smiling and chuckling as he explained himself without saying too much. "Nothing. Just me acting and hamming it up like I always do just like I did throughout the weekend and all of yesterday. Anyways, carry on."

"Wait a minute." Applejack said in realization. "'You didn't agree to reenact everything from last weekend because you wanted to make her feel left out like you did before, did you?" Applejack inquired with a stern glare directed at him.

"And everyone else wanted Twilight to join and you convinced them not to invite her?" Kion also glared at him just as sternly as Applejack.

"Of course not. That whole jealousy thing was just a happy accident. I had no idea she was around to witness it and feel more left out and lonely than before. I was only asked to throw them that party, no questions asked. But I think we're all missing the big picture. Certainly we can all agree that Princess Twilight learned a valuable lesson here – that even she can have feelings of jealousy, that she should recognize said feelings rather than trying to pretend that she doesn't have them. I can actually relate."

Twilight only looked on in response not even denying that but still not feeling any better before she and Kion shared a knowing smirk together of what to do from here.

"Mm-hmm. Did I get the tiniest bit of glee out of watching her try to recreate our weekend of fun in the name of science? Maybe a little bit. But what's important here is that it was never my intent to make Twilight feel jealous. That's something that the old me would have tried to do. Orange you glad I've changed?"

With the snap of his fingers he made an orange appear, in an attempt to make the others laugh once again. Only that nobody did this time around. Not a laugh nor a chuckle or a grin. All were frowns directed at the Lord of Chaos for playing around with the princess's feelings.

"I said, Orange you glad I've changed?"

The ceiling rained oranges in an attempt to make them all laugh to no avail. It was pretty clear, that Discord went for a low blow with what he did.

"Orange! Like the ones at Mizumi Grove! From this weekend!…No? Nothing? Really? I thought you'd find this hisss-terical!"

He once again turned into a snake, shaking the rattle at Rarity, who gently shoved it away. "..Yes, no. Discord, I think these jokes have run their course."

"Only way we'd find them funny now is if you put us all under some kind of spell!" Sunset remarked humorously.

Twilight giggled as she relished a little at an opportunity for payback. "Come on, you'd have to be a complete crazy pony to think he'd do something like that!"

Fuli joining in, laughed out loud, "Yeah, what are you gonna say next, Twilight? That we all have to drink some weird potion to break the spell?"

Now this was enough to get everyone (even Kyoga) in the room laughing about , leaving Discord failing to understand what was going on or what the joke was.

"W-W-What's so funny?"

"Come on, Discord, do we really have to spell it out for you?" Rainbow Dash returned as she laughed at the joke she just made, with said laughing from everyone having increased even more so. For the first time, Discord felt out of the loop for not getting the joke.

"I-I-I don't get it. Somebody want to tell me what's so hilarious? Anybody? Hello?! I'm talking to you! You! And-and you and you! W-W-What's funny about spells? I mean, really, I don't get it, I feel left out and I feel really bad about that…"

Discord literally shrunk down to size, reflecting his mood to be feeling and being literally small. Spike leaned against the table, smiling smugly at him. "Sorry, buddy. Guess you had to be there."

"Eh, fair enough." He said not denying he had that coming, now having learned his lesson about toying with Twilight's feelings. His disappointment faded when a tiny little orange suddenly appeared in his hand, courtesy of Twilight Sparkle.

"No hard feelings?"

To answer her question, Discord reverted back to his normal size and wrapped everyone all together for a group hug, laughing alongside them. Even if he still didn't entirely get the joke.

Author's Note

Here we have Discord flying right off the bat with his friendships with most of the Guard all while Twilight, Spike, and Ono were holed up in the castle for the weekend. Apparently, Discord managed to create and share some inside jokes and over the course of the last three days, they were all laughing and joking around like they are all having fun.

Although others saw it as no big deal, Twilight didn't as she is really bugged with what she saw. And only when she confessed later on did the others finally understand why. Apparently, living the life with a ambition to conquer Equestria and pursue revenge while strings are tugged and pulled can certainly create that effect on some ponies.

Thankfully, with help from others who correctly suspected and saw this is really upsetting her, managed to give their friend a little push to get them to open up while she took issue to it. And in return they managed to get back at Discord for toying around with the princess's feelings.

Next up, Twilight, Kion, Fluttershy, and Ono will finally get to tackle a friendship mission themselves as the map summons them to an area where two families are at war with each other. One where there is not much to be gained, but much to be lost. A story that'll be told sometime in the beginning of November, so stay tuned...

Episode 38: Divide and Conquer

Episode 38:

Divide and Conquer

While out on patrol, danger once again was emerging courtesy of none other than Janja and his clan chasing after Twiga and Juhudi along with the rest of the giraffe herd all while cackling and taunting at them as they proceed to gain up on them.

“Just run, Juhudi! Don't look back!” Twiga urgently told her friend while fleeing.

Lucky for them, the Lion and Pony Guard are right on their tail’s, literally.

“Janja, the Lion and Pony Guard's comin'! All of 'em!” Cheezi warned.

Janja however was unfazed this time around as he laughed in the face of danger for once. “Not for long.”

Jackals are heard barking thus drawing Rainbow and Ono’s attention as they both turned towards the sound and direction of where they are causing a scene.

“Oh, no.” Ono gasped. “Reirei's jackals! They're going after some pangolins on the Chakula Plains!”

“The Chakula Plains? That's a long way's away.”

“No kidding!”

“Oh my!”

Beshte, Rarity, and Fluttershy all commented in great worry.

“Not only that…” Rainbow also picked up something with her keen sight. “...crocodiles in Big Springs, and Starlight Glimmer’s on a rampage going after the zebra and antelopes.”

“Again?!”

“Seriously?!”

"Do they ever take the time to learn at all?!"

Kion, Fuli, Sunset all commented mildly mind blown by how spread out and ruthless the Outsiders are being today.

“Big Springs? Oh no! That’s also a long way’s away.”

“Oh my!”

Both Beshte and Fluttershy repeated with her fright and worry for them doubling up.

With time at the essence, the leaders of the Guard had to make a split decision to deal with them.

“Fuli, you, Fluttershy, and Bunga go help the pangolins! Ono, show 'em the way!”

“On it.”

“Got it.”

“Huwezi.”

“Zuka zama.”

The three all split away from the group to do so.

Twilight then turned to the others. “Kyoga, you, Beshte, and Pinkie Pie continue helping the giraffes!”

“You got it!”

“Twende Kiboko!”

“Time to crash this hyena party again!”

These three then took their turn to do as they were told.

“Applejack and Rainbow Dash, you’re both helping save the hippos from the crocs while Kion, Sunset, and I help the zebra and antelope!”

“Can do, partner!”

“We’ll take those mean and green crocodiles again just like we did before!”

“Which means it’s just you and me to deal with Starlight again!”

"That I can live with." Sunset looked on ready to put that unicorn in her place once more.

“Yep!” Twilight led the way with Kion keeping up with her as he moved to join her in flight. "Come on, Kion, Sunset, Applejack, Rainbow Dash!”

To speed up the process, Rainbow moved to swoop Applejack off of her hooves while Sunset moved to work her fiery magic to propel herself up in the air so they can all travel together and leave nobody in the Guard behind.

With flight by their side they were able to make quick time in dropping off Applejack and Rainbow Dash before making their way over to where Starlight is causing a rampage and is being rather malicious and overly mean while doing it.

“What’s the matter?” The unicorn asked the antelope in a taunting manner. “Got no where to go?”

“No! And you’re being really mean and impolite about it!” Bupu retorted.

“Aww!” She said with mock pity while charging her horn. “Well too bad!”

Just before she could fire her shot off at them, Twilight fired off a magical attack from behind to knock her aside followed by Kion charging towards her to tackle her across the grass and away from the prey along with Sunset firing a blast of magic right at her with the intent to knock her out. Starlight quickly managed to teleport herself out of the tackling and narrowly landed another hit on Kion who leaped up to avoid the attack.

“Well, well, well...If it isn’t both Prince Kion and Princess Twilight here to stop me again. Oh, along with the pony here to try to serve a side of bacon cheese fries.” She said with an evil smirk as she looks on at the two surrounding her while visibly irking Sunset. “I have to say I’m very flattered that the two of you decided to come grace me with your presence. Oh along with you bringing your newest protege along for the ride. I'm sure she is learning well under your guidance...for an amatuer.”

Kion along wiht Twilight and Sunset were not having any of it.

“Save it, Starlight! Because this ends now!”

“So if I were you I’d flee while you still can!”

"Before you find out just how much this amateur has learned how to kick your flank out of the Pride Lands!"

Starlight still refused to budge. “Make me!” She then proceeded to create a magical surge with her horn to send both the prince and princess flying away while crashing and cracking into two nearby trees from behind before charging off ahead. Upon quickly recovering, they both gave her a chase.

While this was happening, both Applejack and Rainbow Dash wasted no time charging up against Kiburi and his crocs who were all cornering the hippos, Basi included.

“Hey, Kiburi! Someone order a knuckle sandwich?!” Rainbow yelled out before delivering a super speedy punchy that knocked the crocodile of his legs. “Because you just earned yourself one courtesy of the speedy express!”

Kiburi growled at the blue pony before moving to charge at him in retaliation. “Why you little…Hey?!” He is suddenly ensnared by Applejack’s lasso by the tail to prevent him from making a move on her friend.

“I don’t think so!”

Before Kiburi could have a chance to do anything about, he was yanked off of his legs before finding himself hoisted and twirled around like wrangling a buffalo by the horns. Next he knows he finds himself thrown and crashing into his own crocs trying to come to his aid, causing them all to be knocked aside like bowling pins.

Upon recovering, Kiburi and crocs proceeded to split up to try to get around their two opponents. By dividing themselves so they can surround them five ways, they moved to attack the two ponies at once. All with jaws aimed to attack each second with one immediately biting after another.

Both ponies being well in sync with one another were quick to swiftly dodge each crocodile that tried to bite at them with quick thinking and quick timing after a brief moment of alarm. Once they had cleared every croc that tried to attack them all at once and dog piled themselves while doing so they moved to lasso and super punch and kick every crocodile that comes at them. They even switching on each other towards Kiburi who tried to put up a fight.

But even still they weren’t backing down and going down so easily, as they still kept feigning off their attempts to force them to submit at the same time Starlight is managing to hold her own and force her battle with the alicorns on the move.

“Just give it up Kiburi! You’re going to lose anyway!” Rainbow demanded.

“You make me!”

“Will do!” Applejack retorted to the stubborn croc as they resume their battle.

Elsewhere, the hyenas have managed to pull within biting range of the giraffes just when Kyoga, Beshte, and Pinkie Pie have done the same to their pack as well.

“Back off, Janja!” Kyoga demanded to the cackling pack tormenting their prey once more.

Janja still wasn’t showing any signs of fear in response as he calmly turned to the rest of his pack. “You two, deal with them.”

The hyenas all complied and stayed behind to stay their ground against the small team in order to heed them off while barring their teeth at their enemies.

Cheezi was quick to get into another tackle and wrestle match with Kyoga. Beshte was able to knock Chungu away when he attempted to charge at him. And both Nne and Tano had no time to defend themselves when Pinkie came to pounce on them with equally vigorous drive.

“Keep 'em busy, fur-brains!” Janja called out to them while still running off ahead to keep up with the helpless giraffes.

Despite enduring the ususal number of hits, they were still able to hold their own against Kyoga, Beshte, and Pinkie Pie.

“Kyoga, there's too many of 'em! Can’t you use your magic to blast them away?” Beshte asked when it seems like they have the upper paw in this fight right now.

“I would if I could.” Kyoga commented as she struggled with putting down the hyenas as both Cheezi and Chungu double teamed against her. “But it might hurt Twiga and Juhudi.”

Janja while just close enough to be able to bite gave this one last taunt and laugh when it seems he has them in the cross hairs of life and death. “You can't run forever, giraffes!”

Hearing that gave them motivation to fight back. “You know, you're right!” Twiga realized before moving to stop running so she could kick Janja away causing him to tumble into the ground with a sore jaw.

“That's enough, fellas! Let's head home!” He stated before leading his team back into the Outlands.

“Uh, okay, Janja!” Cheezi complied even while still a little confused considering they had this fight under their control for once.

“Wait for us!” Chungu called while following after both Janja and Cheezi along with the remaining hyenas just when Pinkie was able to pull out her party cannon.

“Huh?” Pinkie tilted her head in confusion.

“That was weird. They just quit.” Beshte remarked equally confused.

“It's a good thing.” Kyoga commented in relief. “They had us way outnumbered.” She then moved to check up on the giraffes who nearly became hyena food. “You two okay?”

“Yes. Thank you, Kyoga! Come, dear. Let's get back to our group!”

With that, the giraffes took their leave. “Should we go help Fuli, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Bunga with the jackals?” Beshte asked.

“Let's make sure Janja and his clan are really heading back to the Outlands first.” Kyoga stated otherwise before chasing after them to see to it that they do.

Meanwhile the jackals are also gaining ground on the pangolins while pursing them. All while laughing and taunting them about their predicament.

“Hold still, ya varmints!” Goigoi remarked to them while closing in on them alongside his wife though the pangolins are doing everything they can to be as tricky and evasive as possible so they can’t catch them.

“Ugh! Wow, these things are pesky! But they sure do taste good!”

“Yeah! Crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside!”

Despite their best efforts, the pangolins found themselves cornered on the edge of a nearby cliff during their panicking and running from their enemies, thus allowing the jackals to finally have them right where they want them.

“Now, now. Don't be scared. We're just here to share a friendly meal.”

“Yeah. You.” But before they could advance on them the he pangolins curled up into balls. Hey! Where'd the pangy-lins go?”

“Goigoi, you good-for-nothin'!” Reirei scolded her dimwitted husband. “Ya scared 'em so they rolled up into balls!”

“Huh! Well, look at that!” Goigoi proceeded to touch one of them only to wince and retract his nose in pains the ball. “Ow! Pointy, sharp balls!”

Two other jackal pups accompanying them took the time to play around them like kids playing with their food at the table.

“Hey! How many times do I gotta tell ya? Don't play with your food!” Their mother scolded much to the whimpering pups disappointment.

“Aw! Can't we at least roll 'em down the hill?” Goigoi asked.

“Leave the pangolins alone!” Fuli’s voice called out to them before she, Ono, Rarity, and Fluttershy arrived on the scene. “You heard me, Reirei! Back away from the pangolins!” She fiercely repeated with both ponies even Fluttershy ready to make them stay away from their prey.

“Uh-oh! It's the Lion and Pony Guard!” Goigoi expressed in worry.

Reirei however remained undeterred. “Only a few of 'em! Everybody scatter!” She ordered of the others just when they approached them in order to ensure that they aren’t easily defeated by the small team.

Despite Rarity giving some of the jackals a few good karate moves neither she, nor anyone else could manage to take them down as easily as they normally would. During which Reirei took the time to roll the curled up pangolins away from the scene.

“Young'uns! Forget what I said before. Play with your food!” The pups both smiled and chuckled with delight as they both did as they were told.

Both Fluttershy and Fuli had to duck to avoid getting hit by the pangolin’s sharp scales.

“Hey, stop kicking the pangolins!” Fluttershy angrily yelled out to them before flying over to them with a rush of adrenaline kicked into high gear with her motherly instincts pushing herself to confront them.

“Reirei, look!” Goigoi commented on the pangolins finally coming out of their shells. “Now's our chance! Grab 'em!”

“I don’t think so!” Fluttershy furiously exclaimed before intercepting them before they could even reach them. “You all will leave now or else you will all get The Stare!” To prove she isn’t kidding around this time, she unleashed all of the might her powerful glare can give on the four jackals who all cowered and shielded their eyes from the very sight.

“Aah! My eyes! Aah!”

“It burns! It burns!”

The kids both shrieked.

Reirei knowing when she is beaten moved to lead the retreat back into the Outlands. “Come on. Fun's over!

“Right behind ya, sugar snout!” Goigoi was quick to follow her lead before retreating.

After they fled, Fuli was quick to check up on them. “You guys okay?”

The pangolins all grunted to confirm it with Ono the first to express their disappointment with how it went down. “Only thanks to Fluttershy coming to their rescue.”

It was then Bunga had finally managed to catch up and arrive on the scene. “Whoo! What happened? Did we win?” He asked while catching his breath from all of that running.

“Not exactly.” Fuli shook her head before asking. “What kept you?”

“Hey! I never said I was the fastest!” Bunga defended.

“Oops.” Fluttershy squeaked upon realizing that was something she forgot to do in her urgent hurry to save the pangolins.

With enough said on that, Fuli turned her attention back to the Guard’s Keenest of Sight. “Ono, can you see where they're going?”

“Affirmative.” He flew up high and spotted out the retreating hyenas heading back where they want them to go. “They appear to be heading for the Outlands!”

“At least we can chase them home.” Fuli stated before leading the way after them. “Huwezi!”

“Just try... to keep up with me! Zuka... Zama…” Bunga panted in between breaths before being scooped up by Fluttershy.

“Here. Allow me..”

“Thanks!” While riding passenger, Bunga was able to ride on Fluttershy’s back in order to keep up with his comrades.

And as luck would have it, they have managed to regroup with their friends keeping track of the hyenas who have also retreated to the Outlands at the exact same time.

“Looks like the jackals are back in the Outlands.” Ono commented.

“Hyenas, too.” Kyoga reported upon reuniting with them.

“Same for the crocs!” Rainbow called out as she and Applejack closed in o the retreating enemies. “Go on! Get out of here!”

“You heard the pony! Get it!” Applejack also barked while giving each and every croc whiplash with her lasso. “Come on you big green crocs! Get on out of here!”

The crocs all did as they were told but not without yelping in pain as they felt the sting of the country pony’s lasso every single time she unleashed it on their scales and tails.

“And so is Starlight!” Kion called out just when he along with Sunset and Twilight doubled down on their magical attacks while managing to force Starlight to retreat as well. And for good measure, he and Sunset sent a fiery red hot beam of magic from their horns to knock Starlight all the way across the Outlands. Something that Starlight didn’t have time to properly defend herself given her eyes were mostly set on the Outlands.

“Wow!” Rainbow commented rather surprised and impressed by how aggressive he delivered that finishing blow. “That was something!”

"Thanks." Sunset smiled and nodded. "It sure helps that I have a lot of anger fueling my magic."

“I’ll say.” Fuli nodded in approval before focusing more on what had just happened. “But do any of you think it's weird? All of them attacking at the exact same time?”

“It’s definitely a first, but still quite strange.” Rarity commented in agreement. “It’s like the Outsiders are upping their game now.”

“And there is also the fact that Starlight is really getting very aggressive and ruthless herself lately.” Twilight chimed in finding it quite off as Starlight has been increasingly losing her mind ever since the whole encounter in the Outlands.

“Yeah. If I didn’t know any better it really seemed she was out to kill someone today.” Kion commented in worry with Twilight’s sanity slippage episodes still fresh in his mind. “And let's hope it never happens again. It split us up. And when we split up, we're weaker.”

“Hey, it all worked out!” Bunga tried to speak positively of the outcome. “We still saved all the animals and chased the bad guys away, right?”

“Twiga and Juhudi saved themselves.” Kyoga pointed out.

“Then the hyenas just...left.” Beshte added.

“Just before I could use my party cannon on them!” Pinkie exclaimed in frustration much to the staring reactions from the others. “What?!” She exclaimed innocently. “I like using my cannon! It’s how I can celebrate another blasting the hyenas away party!”

“Same thing happened with the pangolins and the jackals only retreating when Fluttershy used her stare on them.” Fuli added.

“And it took some mighty wrestling to get the crocs to back off.” Applejack added.

“And the same thing happened with Starlight.” Sunset added as Kion looked on ahead at the Outsiders all retreating towards the Outlands Volcano up ahead.

“And it’s pretty clear that the attacks weren’t a coincidence." Kion correctly deduced, "They were set up on purpose to split us up! That way, they had us all outnumbered!”

“And if they did it once, they’ll definitely do it again.” Twilight added. “Since we know this was all done under Scar’s orders.”

“If you're right, what are we going to do?” Fuli asked.

“Easy!” Bunga commented thinking nothing of it. We just have to be in four places at once!”

“Seriously?”

“Crocs, jackals, hyenas, Starlight Glimmer all at once?!”

Both Fuli and Rainbow looked on at the honey badger like that is another one of the craziest ideas he has ever come up with.

Kion however smiled like the idea could work. And so did Twilight. “Actually, that's not a bad idea.”

Fuli looked on at the young prince like he is not thinking straight right now. “Two to four places at once? Kion, how can we possibly do that?”

“With a little help, that's how!” Kion confidently replied for at least part of the answer.

"Like how?" Sunset curiously asked.

Said answer happens to be at another part of the Pride Lands where a certain bird is having time entertaining the animals in front of him who are all laughing their heads off to his comedic talents.

“It's like I'm talking to myself!” Thurston commented while laughing.

“It sure is!” Tamaa with Thurston’s voice spoke. “And you thought only zebras could sound this silly!”

The zebras, giraffes, and antelopes present all laughed knowing that is so true that even Thurston himself can laugh at himself at the joke. “I do sound silly!”

“Do you think you can sound like me?” Twiga eagerly asked.

True to form her wish was granted. “Of course, I can! But do you think you can hear me way up there?”

“Oh, delightful!”

At that’s when the Lion and Pony Guard showed up with Sunset looking on with wide eyes and disbelief that bird actually managed to perfectly imitate everyone around them flawlessly. “How about me, Tamaa? Can you still sound like me?” Kion asked.

“And me?” Twilight also asked.

Upon seeing them Tamaa stumbled with his words in response feeling he is now in trouble again. “Uh, Kion. Twilight. This isn't what it looks like! Er...sounds like!”

“Oh, yeah?”

“What is it?”

Both Rainbow and Fuli asked somewhat skeptical that he is up to his old tricks like before.

“My life of crime is over.” Tamaa calmly explained after regaining his composure. “I don't imitate animals to trick them out of their food anymore. These days I do it to make 'em laugh and they just give me their food!

“We certainly do!” Thurston stated to support that claim as Tamaa flew down towards the fruit the other animals actually did give him in return.

“Hear that? They certainly do!” Tamaa said in Thurston’s voice once again with the others laughing their heads off again.

Beshte himself along with Pinkie chuckled and giggled in amusement.

“It is pretty funny.”

“No kidding!”

In response, Tamaa first spoke in Beshte’s voice. “Yeah, I think so, too. Wouldn’t you all agree considering this is a laughing party?!” He then said in Pinkie’s voice to which had everyone continuing their laughing especially Pinkie Pie.

“It sure is a laughing party!” Pinkie was now laughing while flat and rolling on her back.

With all joking aside, Kion approached the bird to press the matter of why they are really here. “I'm glad to hear you kept your promise, Tamaa. But we're not here to check up on you. We need your help.”

Hearing that had the bird feeling very touched and honored. “The Lion and Pony Guard needs my help? Little old me? Tamaa the Drongo?” Turning to his guests. “Sorry, everybody! Show's over!”

Since everyone has their fill of jokes for the day the animals all left.

“Ta-ta.” Thurston returned before leaving.

“Ta-ta.” Tamaa returned in the former’s voice leaving the clueless zebra laughing to himself.

“I just said ta-ta to me!” The others could only shake their heads before turning back to Tamaa who is all ears for what they have to say.

“So what's up? You need entertainment for a party at Pride Rock? I've got Simba's voice down pretty good! Or is it for a party at Canterlot? I’ve also got both Celestia and Luna’s voices down too right down to the exact regal touch.” He then notices the new pony amongst the group. "And what about your new friend here what's your name?"

"Sunset Shimmer. And you are Tamaa right?"

"Of course. And I just so happens to now have my voice down to art like a painting." Tamaa returned in Sunset's voice leaving the pony impressed yet stunned with how pitch perfect it was.

"Wow. Very artistic take."

"I'll say."

Twilight also smiled impressed herself with how great his vocal range is down to form. “Very impressive. But that’s not it.” She firmly stated just before he could give a demonstration. “This is something serious.”

“Really? Huh. I usually do comedy, but okay.”

“Remember how you scared the hyenas by imitating our voices?” Kion asked.

“Hey, I only did that because I had no choice. But no disrespect intended.”

“And we can assure you no disrespect was done back then.” Twilight assured he isn’t in any trouble for that. “In fact, we want you to do it again.”

“All I can say is…” He then performed a front flip in flight while exclaiming. “Zuka Zama!” In Bunga’s voice.

“This guy is un-Bunga-lievable!” Bunga commented already amazed again by how perfect and spot on it was.

“I sure am darling!” Tamaa remarked in Rarity’s voice much to the pony’s brief confusion before smiling in response to the down to art impression.

“Well said, Tamaa. Well said.”

With Tamaa on board, the Lion and Pony Guard moved to discuss it more while they make their way through Mizimu Grove.

“So what's the plan?” Tamaa asked. “I imitate your voices to distract the bad guys... while you jump on them from behind?”

“Not exactly.” Kion shook his head before explaining. “You're going to imitate our voices, but we're not going to be there.”

Now Tamaa is confused. “Now let me get this straight. You're not going to be there. But the bad guys will be?”

“Oh, sure!” Bunga stated. “A whole bunch of 'em! Hyenas, jackals, crocodiles, and a unicorn. Not sure which.”

“You do remember that the last time I almost ended up as hyena food, right?” Tamaa reminded feeling nervous with what he is being told he will be facing. "Not to mention the fact they are all being led by an evil lion who also part alicorn and brought back from the dead plotting his revenge against all of us."

“Don't worry, Tamaa. We won't let anything happen to you.”Beshte assured.

“At least Fluttershy won’t.” Rainbow chimed in to which said pony blushed in response.

“Really? You promise?”

Both Kion and Twilight remained confident that it’s something doable.

“I think a clever bird like you should be able to handle himself.”

“And by that we mean absolutely!"

"Also, Scar has bigger fish to fry other than splitting his time and energy helping his followers win small skirmishs.” Sunset added.

“Yeah.” Fuli agreed. “Aside from Starlight, we're just dealing with crocodiles, jackals and hyenas. Not somebody smart.”

“Not even the crocs!” Rainbow chimed in. “Even while pretty strong themselves!”

“Wait, who’s Starlight the unicorn?” Tamaa asked.

“Long story short, an enemy of mine who’s joined forces with the Outsiders in order to get revenge on me for defeating her once.” Twilight swiftly explained. “Someone that needs to be taken very, very, seriously.”

“Oh. Good thing I’m not unicorn food.” Tamaa commented in Twilight’s voice. He then said in his normal voice. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay. That’s very understandable.” She then turned towards where Scar is meeting with his followers inside the volcano of what their next attack is going to be like. “Question is, who are they going after next and when?”

“Good question, Twilight.” Applejack commented feeling mighty unsure and worried herself.

“Hopefully not someone you know.” Fluttershy equally unsure and worried expressed.

“Hopefully...”

Meanwhile, the Outsiders have all gathered inside the Outlands Volcano, where they’ve just got done explaining to Scar of how the most recent attack went with images and recent memories of the Lion and Pony Guard in action.

“The plan worked, Scar. Th...the Lion and Pony Guard split up to chase us! Just like you said they would!” Janja reported.

Reirei cackled in agreement. “That's right. We had 'em chasing their own tails.”

“Not to mention we are able to hold our own this time without getting our butts kicked.” Starlight eagerly added.

Kiburi grumbled. “For once.” With him, he always feels he can do better than what he is showing even though it all worked out.

Scar none of the less was pleased with what had just happened. “Excellent.”

While pleased himself, he couldn’t help but wonder his boss’s angle on this plan. “Yeah, yeah! But, uh…Why'd we go to all that trouble? We still came back with nothin'!”

“These first attacks were merely a test to see if Kion and Twilight would react as I predicted. The next attack is the one that counts. Because next time your target will be Rafiki!”

Janja now looked on puzzled. “Rafiki?”

Even Reirei couldn’t help but agree with the hyena leader there. “You want to get rid of that old monkey?”

“That "old monkey" is dangerous. He has the ability to sense the Lions of the Past.”

“Ooh, ooh!” Chungu piped up with something say about that. “That means he can sense you!”

Janja, Reirei, Kiburi, and Starlight look at Chungu rather surprised like it was the smartest thing he has ever said since they’ve known him.

“Amazingly, you're right. Even while alive.” Scar remarked rather impressed with him for once before continuing to explain the motive for his target. “That said he has gotten increasingly aware of my presence to the point he can sense when I’m nearby. And if he does then he’ll be quick to alert the others of what I’m up to before it could even happen. Hence the reason why I want to get rid of him.”

“And that’s a very good reason.” Starlight commented very understanding of his explanation and now Janja gets it too.

“Okay. Me and my boys will head to Rafiki's Tree. Reirei's jackals can distract the Guard by goin' after some zebras or somethin' while Kiburi can do the same with some elephants along the way.” He said the last part in a somewhat condescending manner specifically towards the jackals.

Reirei however disagreed while put off by his equally smug attitude. “I think my pack should eliminate Rafiki while you fur-brains go after something you can handle, like a couple of grass rats!”

Janja got into her face to assert they can and will do this. “We'll deal with Rafiki! You don't send a jackal to do a hyena's job!”

Both Kiburi and Starlight simply looked on just flat out annoyed just wanting to get this over with so they can take care of business already.

“Enough!” Scar barked at the two bickering clan leaders before speaking his decision to settle the matter. “Janja, you can have Rafiki. Reirei, the jackals can take lead next time.” Janja smugly smirked at Reirei once more while the jackal matriach returned an annoyed look back at him. “But the skinks have informed me that Rafiki is not at his tree. He's near Mapango Cliffs...meditating.”

“Oh, okay, Scar. Don't worry. We'll find him.” Janja vowed. “If Reirei can keep part of the Lion and Pony Guard away from him...”

Reirei interjected mid-sentence while stepping up in front of Janja at the edge of the cliff over the lava pit. “We jackals always do our job.”

“...Then Rafiki'll never know what hit him.”

Hearing this sparked satisfied music to Scar’s ears. “Good. Then proceed with the plan. Divide... And conquer!” He laughed maliciously while the crocs, jackals, and hyenas all took their leave with Starlight the only one remaining.

“So…” Starlight began once Scar had got done evilly laughing. “...while this is all going down. Who’s the real target while the Lion and Pony Guard are busy?”

Scar smirked deviously as he moved to answer that question as he pulled up new images hidden in shadow with one of them being the bird the Lion and Pony Guard have just enlisted to aid them in their current battle. “Someone very close in their inner circle, Starlight. Someone, very close...”

After their meeting the hyenas, crocs, and jackals all walk down towards another part of the Outlands where Janja is wasting no time in boasting his superiority towards Reirei once more. Something that they have done quite frequently throughout their time having to work together under Scar’s command.

“Ya hear that, Reirei? Scar's lettin' me take care of Rafiki! 'Cause us hyenas is smarter!”

“Smarter than who? A grub worm?”

“Smarter than you, that's who!”

Reirei rolled her eyes in response. “Don't make me laugh, Janja. We Jackals are the smartest animals around."

We're the Smartest

To further emphasize their growing egos, the two sang together about who is superior and smarter, much to Kiburi’s growing annoyance since to him it’s a waste of time. He even glared at one of his followers when he caught him dancing to the beat who quickly and hastily shot an apologetic look back at him.

Reirei first sang and dance while jumping and leaping onto the nearby craters and platforms while Goigoi on the contrary managed to burn himself from the nearby steam vents and bumped his head on a few rocks while he was at it.

Then Janja took his turn by singing all while Cheezi and Chungyu proved themselves equally clumsy and dim-witted as Goigoi when the former burned his tail in lava and the latter tried to eat a rock to which landed on their leader’s paws.

“Ow! Fur brains!” He scolded mid-song before they resumed singing together while getting into each others faces.

Once their song ended, Kiburi finally moved to speak up. “Great, fantastic, you’re both the smartest amongst your respective packs. Now if you’re done singing about your pride and ego’s, can we get a move on and get this over with?! Hmph!” He marches off ahead while his followers walked behind him much to the hyena and jackal’s surprise.

“Guess someone’s not feeling smart today.” Janja commented.

“I’ll say.” Reirei commented in agreement for once before they pressed forward to carry out their tasks.

At the same time Starlight is following closely from behind so she can carry out her task, Scar assigned her...

Back in the Pride Lands, both Rainbow and Ono are high alert trying to spot out their enemies from the sky.

“Hmm. No sign of Janja…” Ono’s eyes managed to lock on Reirei's pack in the Pride Lands again. “Hapana! Everyone, everyone! Reirei's jackals are going after some gazelles!”

“What about the hyenas and crocs?” Kion asked.

“Along with Starlight?” Twilight also asked.

“Didn't see them.”

“Still looking!” Rainbow resumed looking around for the hyenas along with Starlight and the crocs. Still don’t think those other attacks weren’t a coincidence, Twilight?”

“No. These were definitely planned out by Scar himself. Which means he wants to try to split us up again keep us busy from his true target whoever he or she might be. So just keep looking while we take on Reirei, you too Ono.”

“On it.”

“Affirmative.”

“Tamaa, you’re with us.” Kion added as they set off to pursue the jackals causing havoc.

I still don't think so. Ono, keep an eye out for Janja. In the meantime, we'll take on Reirei. Tamaa, you're with us.

“On it…” He spoke in Rainbow’s voice then Ono’s. “...Affirmative!”

By going fast on their paws, hooves, and wings, the Lion and Pony Guard were able to make quick ground on the jackals with a very determined prince wanting to stop them before anything else can happen.

“There they are, come on.”

While this was happening both Rainbow kept looking alongside Ono while splitting up to cover more ground. From the west side of the Pride Lands, Ono managed to spot the hyenas while Rainbow managed to spot the crocodiles on the east side of the Pride Lands.

“Hyenas.”

“Crocodiles!”

“But who are they going after?” They both asked at the exact same time before finding their eyes locked on a meditating Rafiki and a certain king out having lunch by himself.

“Oh no!”

Wasting no time, both fliers quickly regrouped to alert their leaders.

“The hyenas!”

“They're moving in on Rafiki!”

“And the crocodiles are moving in on the king!”

Everyone gasped in horrified shock upon hearing who they are targeting, especially Kion.

“Rafiki and Dad?! Heyvi Kabisa We have to save them!” Turning to their voice imitator friend. “Tamaa, we're gonna need your help after all.”

“So, what do I do again?” He asked now confused.

“Just keep the jackals confused till we get back!” Kion simply explained. “Stay out of sight and do your stuff!”

“In the meantime,…” Twilight spoke up deciding the best course of action while the jackals are distracted. “...I’ll lead the Pony Guard to help Rafiki, Kion you lead the Lion Guard to help your dad. Sound good?”

“Perfect.” To Kion being able to protect his dad is definitely something he would want to do. “Let's go.”

With that both Guard’s went off their separate ways while Tamaa is left to take things from him. “Okay, Tamaa. Showtime!” He said to himself before taking cover in the nearby tree branches while the jackals prepare to sneak up on the gazelles who are now unaware of their presence.

“Come out, come out, wherever you are!"

“Yeah! Come out peaceful and you won't get hurt! Well, we ain't gonna hurt 'em. We're just gonna eat 'em!”

Just before they could make their move on them they heard voice’s they never expect to hear.

“Kion! Fuli! I found the jackals! They're over here!” Ono’s voice spoke out loud.

“The Lion Guard…?” Goigoi spoke confused with what he is he hearing.

“They’re attempting to hunt down the nearby gazelles!” Rainbow’s spoke next thus confusing Goigoi even more so.

“...And the Pony Guard?!”

“But it can't be all of 'em. Scar said they'd split up again!” Reirei rightfully commented but even she can’t figure out why they are hearing their voices to be sure on that.

“Good job, Ono!” Kion’s voice is heard next followed by Twilight’s.

“You too, Rainbow Dash!”

“Fuli, Beshte, Bunga, Kyoga, let's surround them!”

“Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie, Fluttershy, let’s do the same!”

“They won't get past me!” Said Fuli’s voice. “Huwezi!”

Next up is Beshte’s voice. “Okay, Kion. Twende kiboko!”

Followed by Bunga. “You got it! Zuka Zama!”

“Give it up, Reirei!” Kyoga’s voice then said.

“You’re not going anywhere, ya varmits!” Applejack’s voice spoke next.

“Because you ruffians are even laying a claw on those gazelles!” Rarity’s voice came next.

“Especially with the whole Guard here to keep you from doing so!” Pinkie’s voice then said.

“And if you even try anything with us, you’ll have to answer to me!” Fluttershy’s voice fiercely spoke to them.

"Along with facing my fiery wrath!" Sunset's voice spoke to them equally fierce.

“We have got them surrounded now, Lion Guard!”

“The jackals have nowhere to go, Pony Guard!”

Both Kion and Twilight’s voices spoke again.

Now Reirei is really trying and failing to understand what they are hearing. “Wait. Why is all the Lion and Pony Guard here?”

“You think maybe Scar was wrong?” Goigoi expressed wondering the same thing.

“Maybe... But if they're all here, Janja's got Rafiki all to himself and Kiburi’s got whoever he wants to go after. So I guess it's a good thing.”

“Good thing for them. Not so good fer us!” Goigoi fearfully gulped knowing full well of what’s in store for them now.

Meanwhile at Mapongo Cliffs, like Scar said from the skinks most recent report, Rafiki is indeed and still meditating on top of the highest rock in the open area. With his eyes closed, he is so far unaware of the presence of Janja and his pack sneaking up from behind making their way through the tall grass.

“There he is.” Janja commented to his crew. “That crazy old monkey don't stand a chance against us!”

“Yeah.” Chungu agreed while laughing hysterically.

“Janja, you think we should keep a lookout for the Lion and Pony Guard?” Cheezi rightfully expressed in concern.

Janja thinking that this will go the way it’s supposed was quick to dismiss it to the sky. “Nah! They don't stand a chance, either. We got 'em outnumbered, remember? Now, come on!”

The hyenas make their move while slowly approaching the elderly mandrill without making a sound. As they are doing so, a branch carrying fire on it falls down onto the dry grass from afar.

Walking walking towards Rafiki, Cheezi is the first to notice while the other’s eyes were more focused on the target. “Janja, that fire's heading this way!”

Janja remained unfazed with this in light. “Don't worry, fur brain, that's part of Scar's plan. We'll be halfway home before that fire gets here.

“But, uh...”

“Shh! I'm talking, fur-brains! We're gettin' close! Now spread out.” The whole clan did as they were told with no further words spoken and no more questions asked by spreading around from behind the tall rocks. And once they were all in position, he gave the command. “Now!“

Rafiki at that moment sensed their presence with one open eye before grabbing his staff and leaping up in the air with a karate fighting stance.

“What?” Janja stuttered in shock having already underestimated their more competent opponent.

Once he leaped down to lower ground, he wasted no time in taking action by punching and kicking every hyenas that come after him left and right much like he did to the hyenas back in the Battle for Pride Rock including back handing Janja right in the jaw.

Upon recovering from the attack, Janja was able to see what he was not expecting coming in his direction. “All the Pony Guard is here? This is not going the way it's supposed to!”

Elsewhere, the crocodiles have all moved to surround King Simba from behind all without making a sound in the tall grass as he has his lunch like nothing is going on around him. They were all very careful not to give any warning so they can assassinate him again. With the Lion and Pony Guard not around to stop them again, they feel confident that he’ll never know what hit him by the time it happened. They all got themselves in position to pounce all at once and from behind when…

...Simba’s eyes open as he sensed a single pebble from nearby being moved from afar who moved to bare his teeth and claws while growling in response to what’s sneaking up from behind just when the crocodiles leaped forward to make their move.

Acting quick he flipped around and tackled all of the crocs when he leaped over them and slammed them down onto the ground before leaping off of them so he can face them eye to eye.

“Kiburi!”

“Simba!”

“I see that you and your float have returned!” He looked on with a look of pure anger at treacherous enemies trying to ambush him again. “That was a mistake.”

“Oh you think?” Kiburi arrogantly returned.

“Yes, because I banished you from the Pride Lands. And you know the penalty for returning here!”

“Oh is that right? Because last time we saw each other I remember you never said a word of what would happen if I did try to come back. So therefore, I don’t know what in the name of the Pride Lands is in store for me should I and did return.”

“I see. So this is how it’s going to be huh?” Simba got himself into a charging stance. “Want to do this the hard way, fine!”

Kiburi was quick to take up the challenge as he charged at the lion king at the same time he charged at him leading the two to wrestle on their hind legs in a locked arm wrestle match while the other crocs cheered their leader on.

Back with the jackals, Tamaa’s on spot voice acting has got them terrified out of their minds.

“Don't let those jackals get away, Fuli!” Kion’s voice stated.

“Do not worry, Kion! I will run circles around them!” Fuli’s voice spoke like she is assuring Kion that she’ll make sure of that much to their paralyzing fright.

“Chase them my way, Fuli! I'll stomp on them!” Beshte’s voice spoke next leading to Goigoi to cover his eyes in fright.

“I hate gettin' stomped!”

“Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer, sic ‘em!” Twilight’s voice spoke next.

“On it!”

"With pleasure!"

Both Rainbow and Sunset’s voice spoke up as the jackals were all dropping to the ground to avoid getting their heads cut off.

“We got them surrounded now, Twilight!” Applejack’s voice spoke up.

“All right, you jackals! I've got no choice but to use my roar!” Kion’s voice now spoke thus maximizing their fear levels.

“Everybody brace yourself!” Reirei alerted everyone while ducking for cover.

“Here it comes. Roar!”

Reirei opened her eyes and looked over her head after realizing nothing had happened. “Funny. I thought we'd be flying ears over tail by now.”

Goigoi after opening his eyes and looking around is left surprised nothing happened to. “Ya. You think maybe Kion's losin' his touch?”

Reirei looked around and spotted the true source lurking in the branches. “Not hardly.” She growled upon realizing the deception before sneaking up from behind.

Feeling he’s got them fooled Tamaa took the time to chuckle to himself with how well he’s been succeeding at it. “These jackals are such pushovers! I wish I could see their faces!”

But suddenly he found himself getting suddenly pounced on by Reirei who let out a terrified yell when landing on the ground. “Guess what, birdie? Your wish just came true!”

“Sorry! Don't eat me!” The bird begged for mercy. “It...It was all in fun! Just ask K...Kion!

“Kion?” Reirei was now furious. “He tricked us. That means the whole entire Lion and Pony Guard must be going after Kiburi and Janjai! Come on! We gotta get a'goin'!”

The jackals quickly ran off ahead so they back them up all while letting Tamaa go who wasted no time in getting back up in flight.

“And I have to warn the Lion and Pony Guard!”

But before he could do so he found himself trapped in a sphere of magic courtesy of Scar himself appearing before him.

“Oh, I don’t think that will be necessary, Tamaa.” He said to him while emerging from the bushes much to the bird’s horrified terror. “After all, I have a better surprise I want to them to find out themselves and you’re the perfect bird to pass the message to them.”

“Okay. But think maybe you could just tell me so I can pass along whatever message you want to tell Kion and Twilight? That will it’ll be easier for the both of us.” Tamaa hopefully asked while trying to wonder why he is being held captive.

Scar chuckled malevolently in response. “Oh, no, no, no, no, no, Tamaa. You misunderstood me. This is something I want to tell the Lion and Pony Guard personally…”

Tamaa nervously gulped while squawking in fright with what his merciless foe is doing now as he points a single claw at his forehead like a gun. "Wow, If I didn't know better I uh...think I'm in the middle of something. I mean there's really no need to..!"

Back at Mapongo Cliffs, the Pony Guard has arrived to confront Janja and his hyenas at the same time Lion Guard arrived to confront Kiburi and his crocs.

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Both parties wasted no time in tackling their opponents with Kion and his crew taking on the crocodiles watching on while Twilight and the other ponies taking on the entire hyena brigade.

Upon seeing the Pony Guard arrive on the scene, Rafiki felt like he can relax now. “Ah, that was fun. But it feels good to take a break.” Even with closed eyes, Rafiki effortlessly kicked Cheezi to the ground.

With the whole Guard there on both sides, they were all able to kick butt on the whole hyena and crocodile clan in synchronized fashion like they always do, thus leaving their opponents woefully unmatched like before. It even got to the point Janja decided enough is enough and tried to flee.

“That does it! I'm outta here!”

“Twilight! Janja’s getting away!” Rainbow alerted.

“Not for long!” She stated while going after him herself.

While trying to use the nearby fire for cover for his escape, a mighty roar is heard is Scar himself popped out from the fire to intercept him in his tracks. “Where do you think you're going, coward?”

Seeing Scar here himself had taken the hyena off-guard. “Scar, what are you doing here?

“Making sure you don't ruin the plan. Now go back there and fight!

“But, they got us outnumbered!” Janja protested.

Scar remained calm and assured even with this in light. “Not for long.”

Just then Janja got struck down by Twilight herself when she managed to find him. But just before she rush over to force him to concede to defeat she found herself knocked aside when she was attacked by a fire blast courtesy of Scar knocking her to the ground. She barely had time to get herself before being knocked aside by another fiery attack from Scar again. She then had to teleport away to avoid getting further blindsided by the fiery lion before braving the cover to resume their duel on much equal footing.

At the same time Rainbow Dash spotted something that deserves some attention. “Twilight! More Outsiders coming our way!” She alerted just when she saw the jackals coming their way.

“Get the rest of the Guard together!” She ordered before resuming her duel with Scar. “Keep them at bay!”

But at the same time while Simba and Kiburi were still dueling in a dead-lock arm wrestling match which is slowly going in the former’s favor as he was able to finally force the latter back and moved to go for the tackle and the pin. But Kiburi was quick on his back legs to force the lion king off of him by flipping him onto the ground and off of his body before making another mad dash towards his opponent while he is still down.

As Simba recovered from the tumble he saw Kiburi leap out and managed pounce on him just as he stood up. But Simba being the stronger fighter of the two managed to force the crocodile off of him and slammed his head down onto the ground. With that he had managed to subdue his attacker in a choke hold.

Just as the Lion Guard were managing to subdue the other crocs, Ono managed to spot something with his keen sight and it was something he was not expecting. “Hapana! Kion! More Outsiders are coming are way!”

Kion managed to turn his head on over where Ono is looking at and spotted the jackals are also coming their way. “Lion Guard, with me!”

“But we're just about to win!” Bunga pointed out before seeing the incoming jackals. “Or maybe not.”

“Come on! Regroup with Kion!” Fuli ordered of the rest of the Guard as Kion moved to do the same.

But just as Kion was about to the same, he was caught in a blindsided fire attack that knocked him down into the ground.

“Kion!” Simba yelled out in concern just after choking the croc into unconsciousness when he refused to surrender.

But just when he moved to check up on his son he was forced back by another blast of fire which he narrowly avoided. Said attack came from his evil uncle himself hovering in the air in his fiery glory who smirked at him as evilly as always towards his nephew.

“Scar!” Simba snarled with a furious glare.

“Simba!”

At Mapingo Cliffs, Applejack was quick to alert Rafiki who is currently meditating at the moment. “Rafiki? You probably might wanna stop meditating now.”

“Is the fight still going on?” He asked with his eyes still closed.

“Actually, it's about to get worse.” Rainbow replied just as the jackals have regrouped with both the hyenas and jackals and are now standing opposite from the Guard on both battlefields.

“Very worse, Rainbow Dash, because as you can plainly see you’re all outnumbered again.” Scar commented to the Pegasus before focusing his attention to everyone present while effortlessly reflecting Twilight’s attacks away from him. “Greetings, Simba, Lion and Pony Guard. I can see you all have managed put things together with what you see before your very eyes. So how about you make this easy for yourselves by handing over Rafiki and Simba so that everyone else all walks out of here unharmed. If not then I guess we’ll have to this the hard way and someone gets hurt because of you.”

“Then I guess we’ll have to do this the hard way because we ain’t backing down from this one, Scar.” Applejack firmly stated.

“Took the words right out of my mouth, Applejack. The hard way it is.” Twilight commented in approval while voicing her stance on the matter.

“Yeah! I pick the hard way!” Bunga agreed with pounded fists knuckled together ready for that fight.

“I’m with you, Bunga! The hard way.” Kion stated just after recovering from his grand-uncle’s attack.

“So am I!”

“Me too!”

Both Kyoga and Fluttershy chimed up in agreement.

“Me three!”

“Me four!”

Rainbow and Pinkie both stated as the former also pounded her hooves together and the latter giggled then growled seriously.

“Poa.”

“Let’s do this.”

“Yeah.”

“Affirmative.”

Beshte, Rarity, Fuli, Ono replied while following suit.

Rafiki jumped into a fighting stance as he got ready to fight too. “Very well.”

"Do your worst!" Sunset definatly stated to the fiery ringleader.

“Bring it on, Scar!” Simba stated with fierce determination at his arch-nemesis.

“Everyone...”

“Till the Pride Lands and Equestria’s end…”

“Lion and Pony Guard defend!”

Both sides charged at each other at the exact same time Twilight, Kion, and Simba all resumed their duel with Scar at both locations.

At Mapingo Cliffs, the head to head duel between Janja and Rainbow went down with the former being knocked and sent flying backwards given the super speed the latter was going right back at him. The duel between Reirei and Applejack was also short-lived due to the latter managing to kick the jackal off of her legs in quick succession followed by Sunset overpowering Starlight after a heated magic beam of war battle.

Rarity when faced with three hyenas coming her way was quick to do a front flip before knocking the three aside in quick succession with her three precise karate-style hits at once with Pinkie Pie following it up by bouncing on each and every one of them like their backs are turtle shells. Then Sunset Shimmer leaps into the mix and worked her magic into sending multiple fire balls and knock them all away before any of them could recover and fight back

One of the jackals got into a stare down with Fluttershy with the former trying to maintain and stand his ground against the latter’s scowl before trying to lunge at her. She managed to dodge it with her tail kicking up the jackal’s tail instead causing him to bite it instead. With a swift whip and crack of her long pink tail she sent her attempted attacker flying right into range of Rafiki’s staff who whacked him right into both Janja and Reirei who have both just recovered from the blows they had endured.

At the same time the deadlock battle between Twilight and Scar resumed with the former working her magic in trying to extinguish the latter’s firepower. Between his quick and swift maneuvers the former was still giving the alicorn princess a hard time since his firepower is hard to repel. The two traded off magical and fire blasts as they flew and ran beside each other trying to land blows on each other.

At one point, Twilight managed to use her fire power to power herself up into unleashing an attack that swiftly put out the lion’s flames with dirt blown in his direction while punching the latter out when he regained his eyesight. But Scar being quick to regain his ground quickly knocked the alicorn off of her hooves and then sent another fire blast that connected and hit her square in the chest causing her to drop down in pain. And after regaining his fiery form he quickly ensnared the pony with fiery coils from head to toe leaving her very little wiggle room to break herself from the half alicorn’s grasp.

“NO!” She screamed while being singed and restrained.

"Twilight!" Sunset tried to rush on over to her aid only to be blasted aside by Starlight herself who took wicked joy in being able to get payback against her.

"Sorry, Sunny, but Twilight is too busy to accept help requests at this very minute. So in the meantime, prepare to be vaporized." Sunset had to teleport away before getting zapping herself before being able to prepare herself for another battle with the deranged mare herself.

At the same time, Kion while faring better than how he started off, is still struggling against his more experienced foe’s firepower until his father leaped into and tackled on him to keep his enemy away from him. The two lions wrestled onto the ground with bare teeth until Scar managed to strike his nephew with his fiery paw and sent him aside.

While Kion moved to try to keep his evil granduncle away from his father, the rest of the Lion Guard were keeping at their toes in subduing the crocs and jackals. Kyoga was quick on her paws to strike magic at each and every of the three crocs that tried to come at her while Beshte was quick to bowl over them like bowling pins. Fuli was able to use her super speed to knock aside the jackals by swiftly knocking them off of their paws. Sunset was able to work her fiery magic in not only defeating the hyenas that intercepted her but also the jackals giving Fuli a tough time. Bunga was able hold one back by the tail before tricking said jackal into biting his own tail.

“Zuka Zama!”

“Ow!”

Just when Simba had managed to get up on her paws, Kiburi tried to take advantage of this to try to attack him while he is down. But Simba is quick to counter that by swiftly leaping up and slashed his claws right into his face. He then backhanded the croc to send him flying away and landing on his right front limb thus ensuring a swift and brutal defeating injury to the evil croc when he landed.

He then moved to fight is uncle and with a more rigorous offensive drive just before he could start to gain on his son. At the same time Twilight managed to break free from her restrains with she breathed fire in her enemy’s face.

At the exact same time both Twilight and Simba unleashed a series of quick, fast, and aggressive firepower fueled moves (literal in Twilight’s case) in order to force Scar on the defense, all while sweating their heads off from all of that exposure to the warm element. And at the exact same time, both Twilight and Kion unleashed a gusty wind that knocked their opponent away from.

It was there once seeing that things were looking up for the heroes, Janja and Reirei have decided they have done enough for the day.

“All right, all right, enough!”

“We surrender.”

“Good! Now get out of the Pride Lands!”

“And by out, I mean stay out!”

“For good!”

The hyenas, jackals, and crocs (with two moving to assist Kiburi on his legs due to his injury before limping away from the scene while huddling over to Scar. Despite the Lion and Pony Guard being able to fend off his army, Scar still felt content with what has happened before giving a respectful look to the three leaders with only this to say.

“Thank you for playing.” He then chuckled before disappearing with his army from both areas in a flash of fire while swiftly knocking everyone off of their paws and feet all while swiftly putting out the fires that were going on around them during their battle.

“Phew! That’s a relief.” Applejack commented feeling pleased.

“I’ll say.” Rarity agreed.

“You know one good thing about the hyenas and jackals fighting together?” Bunga asked Beshte.

“What’s that Little B?”

“Watching them run off together!”

“That is so true.” Kyoga smiled knowing that’s so true.

“Thank you, Pony Guard.” Rafiki said to the ponies in gratitude. “It has been a long time since I embraced my inner warrior.”

“And I am very glad to have the Lion Guard by my side today.” Simba then said to his son and his team equally grateful for what they did just now.

“Our pleasure.”

“Glad we could help.”

"Anything for the king of the Pride Lands himself. Speaking of which..."

Both Rarity, Fluttershy, Sunset returned warmly though the latter started thinking as she turned to regroup with Kion and Twilight.

“I’m glad we got to got kick some enemy butt big time!” Rainbow relished and cheered while giving some swift air punches in a victorious manner. “Wouldn’t you agree, Twilight?”

“I sure would.” Fuli chimed in to agree herself. “It sure was fun! Right, Kion?”

“Twilight?”

“Kion?”

Both leaders of the Lion and Pony Guard were still feeling puzzled despite holding their own against Scar today something that Sunset was the first to pick up why.

“Huh?” They said at the exact same time in separate locations.

“What has you looking so confused, young Twilight?”

“Everything okay, son?”

“I wish I knew, Dad.”

“From Scar being here, from being able to hold my own a bit better than before against him. Something just doesn’t add up here.”

"Like this wasn't it!" Sunset also deduced before her heart rate started climbing when she thought of something of what the answer really is.

Just then, Scar appeared before the Lion and Pony Guard in his fiery form with something he forgot to say before fleeing alongside his army before disappearing for good. “Well done, Twilight, Kion, Simba, Lion and Pony Guard. Unfortunately for all of you, I kept you all busy just long enough.”

“Keep us busy…”

“From what…?”

Both leaders thought before gasping in horror when the thought struck them thus spurring them flying off at high speed towards the portal near Pride Rock with the others following after them as quickly as they can possibly be with Sunset working up her fiery magic to propel herself to keep pace with two.

Their quick flying and running had them bursting through the doors heading into the Canterlot Castle where the three were the first to slam open the doors with a sense of urgent worry.

“Celestia, Luna!”

“Mom! Kiara!”

"Where are you?!"

They noticed all of the guards defeated and bruised which only served to further increase their heart-rate and anxiety-filled worry.

“Are you all okay?!”

“What happened to…?”

"Celestia? Celestia?!"

The three gasped in horror with what they saw before them…

Princess Cadance herself lying down on the floor lifelessly alongside Celestia and Shining Armor.

“Hevi Kabisa!”

“CADANCE! SHINING ARMOR! CELESTIA!”

"Oh, no!"

The others arrived on the scene could only look on in horror with what they just saw along with the seeing whole throne room all trashed up with scorch marks all around the area.

“What happened?! Who did this?!” Simba urgently asked Luna who along with Nala and Kiara are all here but unharmed but clearly shaken.

“Scar happened. He did this.” Luna replied solemnly with a tone filled with regret with how this happened herself. “Along with Starlight Glimmer by his side.”

Just then while a devastated and tear-filled Twilight was hugging the lifeless bodies of her family, Scar appeared before everyone once more with another thing he needed to say again. “Almost forgot, here…” He tosses to them Tamaa who like the ponies dropped dead to the ground lifelessly with a hole on the top of his forehead from having bled to death, much to Fluttershy’s devastation that another one of her Pride Lander friends is now gone along with Sunset's burning fury that this all happened. “Sorry, Twilight.” He callously remarked without remorse before disappearing for good, not that Twilight could muster the anger and firepower to confront him right now. Not after what he just did to her...

Author's Note

Here in the penultimate episode of Season 5, we have the Army of Scar going toe to toe with the Lion and Pony Guard again, and this time they split up with various groups attacking separate areas in the Pride Lands. And for starters, yes with all things considered there are more Outsiders with Starlight in the mix. And much like in canon Tamaa makes his return to help the Lion and Pony Guard.

With these adjustments, more fights, more action, a new angle from Scar engaging in some Kansas City Shuffling in his latest Batman Gambit, and more drama leading to a shocking conclusion from the aftermath of the ending fight leading to bigger stakes in store with the season finale up next which I hope to have ready as early as Thanksgiving and no longer than the end of the month. So stay tuned as Season 5 is finally about to come to an end.