My Little Pony: The Blaze of Friendship Book I

by Royal Pony Dude

Rating: everyone
Tags: Spike, Comedy, Adventure, Sunset Shimmer, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Thriller, Original Character
Length: 21368

The Heart of Friendship Burns!

Unicorns Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer are the star students of Princess Celestia but the almighty Princess has other plans in mind. She sends the two dragon companions, Spike and Jake to Ponyville, to oversee the Summer Sun Celebration but instead, the two will have adventures of a lifetime.

Note: This will cover all the first three seasons, if you have ideas or good editing skills, feel free to PM

Published 2023-10-21 03:50:00 UTC
Last updated 2025-02-05 21:02:04 UTC

Chapter 1-From Dusk to Dawn Part 1

As time moves on, both Twilight and Sunset best of the students in the school as they have dragon buddies when they hatched during their exams a purple dragon named Spike and a blue and orange dragon, named Jake however Jake gets his right eye blinded during a magic lesson from Celestia making it pitch black.

10 years later...

Sunset was sleeping on the couch without a care in the world, as Jake was searching the library for books to read out of boredom.

Twilight was walking back towards her house after doing some studying "I've gotta get back home and get all this studying done."

“Twilight!? Is there anything interesting to read?!” Jake called.

She rolled her eyes hearing him from outside "Everything is interesting if you give it a chance!" She called back.

"I read every book in this place!" He said then got tackled by Spike.

"Hey!" Jake called. "You want to get rough, let's get rough!" He said as they wrestled.

Twilight walked in, seeing them wrestling.

“Watch for fragile objects," Sunset told them. "So, Twilight, what brings you here?"

"Oh you know, enjoy some reading, but that's not why, have you heard about the Mare in the Moon?" Twilight asked her.

"Some of it, something about a nightmarish alicorn named Nightmare Moon tried to bring eternal night in Equestria but was stopped by Celestia when she used the Elements of Harmony to send her to the moon," Sunset replied as two dragons continued to fight. "Isn't that an old ponies' tale?"

"I thought so, myself but it turns out that on the longest day of the 1,000th year, the stars will aid in her escape and bring nighttime eternally," Twilight said then she gasped before getting Sunset's face "Do you know what this means?!"

"Uh, I'm going on a limb and say no," Sunset gulped a bit.

"Don't you see, today just happened to be the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration, the longest day of the year, meaning Nightmare Moon is planning on her escape?! We have to warn Princess Celestia, at once!" Twilight exclaimed.

Sunset used her magic on Spike and Jake and separated them.

"If you two stop beating the crap out of each other, Jake I need to write a letter to the princess," Sunset said.

"Sure, Sunset," Jake got out a paper and feather quill.

"Dear Princess Celestia, As Twilight and I continue our studies of pony magic we have discovered something that can bring doom to Equestria as Nightmare Moon is planning to make her return and bring The Eternal Night. Something must be done to stop her from doing it. Both of us, wait for your quick response. Your students, Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer. Got that?"

"Yep!" Jake finished writing and sent it away with dragon breath. "And sent."

“Do you think she’ll respond right away?” Twilight asked.

"I dunno, Twily, she busy getting ready for the Celebration, I really doubt she'll respond right away," Sunset raises a brow.

As soon as she said it, Jake breathed out a letter.

"Okay, maybe she did," Sunset grabbed the letter with her magic.

"What does it say?" Twilight said.

"It says My great students, I am aware of said prophecy and I can assure you that I have accounted for everything. On a separate note, I have a task for you both. I will be sending you to Ponyville to oversee preparations for the summer sun celebration with an extra goal... make some friends. From your Princess Celestia. " Sunset told her which Twilight gasped at the last part.

The two unicorns and the two dragons were on a carriage in the air being pulled by two royal guard pegasi.

“Look on the bright side Twilight. Princess Celestia arranged for us to stay in a library. That’s a lot of books for me- I mean, us to read. Doesn’t that make you happy?” Spike asked.

Twilight smiled. “Yes, yes it does. Do you know why? Because I'm right! I'll check on the preparations as fast as I can, then get to the library to find some proof of Nightmare Moon's return.”

“And what about making friends?” Spike asked.

"She said to make friends, which means we do our royal duty," Twilight told him. "Besides it's not like the fate of Equestria will rely on us making friends."

"Twi, you know how creative Celestia gets with our lessons? Besides, you didn't come to Moondancer's get-together earlier," Sunset told her as the carriage began to land.

“Thank you, sirs,” Twilight told them. The two guards nodded with a satisfied whinny.

“Maybe the ponies in Ponyville will have some interesting things to talk about,” Spike said as they saw a pink pony trotting their way.

"Oh, what the heck, why not?" Sunset said giving it a shot as the pink pony greeted them. "Hello."

The pony lets out a prolonged gasp before zipping off. The four looked at her in shock.

"Well, that was interesting all right,” Sunset said.

The four made their way to a farm nearing Ponyville.

“Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist. Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres.” Spike said as he was looking at the checklist.

“Yeehaw!” An orange mare was heard yelling. The Quadro sees her run to a tree, buck it, and knock all of the apples into the buckets under the trees.

“Let’s get this over with.” Twilight sighed then walked forward. "Good afternoon, I'm Twilight Sparkle."

"Well, howdy do, Miss Twilight," The orange mare greeted her shaking her hand fastly. "I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends!” The orange mare was introduced.

“Friends? Oh no, I’m not here for” Twilight tried to say.

“So, what can I do you for?” Applejack asked with a wink as Sunset came in.

"Well, I'm here with my friend Twilight, to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food?” Bandit asked.

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

“Sure, we got time,” Sunset said. Applejack zipped off and started ringing a triangle.

“Soup's on, everypony!” She said. Ponies started to file in. Pushing the four to a table.

“Now, why don't I introduce y'all to the Apple family?” Applejack offered.

“Thanks, but we really need to hurry—” Twilight said in an attempt to get out of it. Quickly, ponies were stacking food on the table.

“This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp…” She listed the family members before taking a deep breath. “Big Macintosh [points to a large red stallion, holding a green cupcake with an apple slice on top of the icing]. Apple Bloom [points to a vanilla-colored filly with a red mane and pink bow]. And-” She shoves an apple in Twilight's mouth before pointing to a light green, elderly mare, sleeping in a rocking chair. “Granny Smith.”

“Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests,” Applejack said. She snorts as she wakes up.

“Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, ahm comin'...” Granny Smith said as she walked over to them.

“Why, I'd say you're already part of the family!” Applejack said. Twilight spat out the apple and laughed nervously.

“Okay, well, I can see the food situation is handled, so we'll be on our way,” Twilight said. The ponies started to look sad.

“Aren't you gonna stay for brunch?” Apple Bloom asked with puppy eyes and a quivering lip.

"Come on Twilight, we shouldn't turn down their hospitality. Besides this will give us a taste test and I'm starving."

"Fine, maybe we can stay for a quick bite," Twilight changed her thought. The apple family’s frowns flipped as they cheered.

"Ugh... I think I ate too much pie." Twilight said being sluggish.

"Dang, those Apple can cook good," Sunset said. "The thing on the list that a pegasus named Rainbow Dash to clear the clouds."

Well, she isn't doing a good job," Twilight stated then out of nowhere a lighting beam crashed into her and landed her in a mud puddle. The beam was a pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail looking at Twilight.

"Whoops, uh, Excuse me," She said to her. "Let me help."

She pushes a cloud over Twilight and Rainbow Dash jumps on top of the cloud, coating Twilight in rain.

"No need thank me your quite welcome," The mare stopped the cloud and zipped around giving Twilight's mane a puffed look.

"Great my mane is ruined," Twilight grumbled a bit. "Let me guess, you're Rainbow Dash."

"The one and only, why you've heard of me?"

"I've heard you're supposed to be keeping the sky clear. I'm Twilight Sparkle and this Sunset Shimmer. We're supervising the Celebration."

"I get on it, just I'm done practicing."

"Practing for what?"

“The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow.” Rainbow Dash explained. "And I'm going gonna show them everything I got,” Rainbow said with a smug smile.

"Really, there's no way, the best flyers in Equestria would be anyone who can't clear a couple of clouds for a couple of hours,” Sunset said with a smirk.

"Hey, I can clear the sky in ten seconds flat," Rainbow exclaimed.

"Prove it."

"Bet."

Rainbow Dash nodded and zipped off and she began clearing the clouds at a fast-neck pace.

Both unicorns followed her movements. Both were amazed at what they were seeing.

“Loop-de-loop around, and wham! What'd I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. We'd never leave Ponyville hanging!” Rainbow said. Twilight's mouth was agape.

“You should see the look on your face! Ha! You're a laugh, Twilight Sparkle. I can't wait to hang out some more. You too, Sunset."

"Those two were amazing,” Spike said. He looked at Twilight and started laughing at her mane. Twilight rolled her eyes and walked off.

"It's pretty funny when you get used to it!" Spike followed her.

"Sunset, I go check on the decor, you and Jake and got the music?"

"You bet, we'll meet back at the library," Sunset said then the two went their separate ways.

Twilight and Spike went inside the Town Hall. Once inside the town hall, Spike checked the next set of preparations to check up on. ''Next up...Decorations.'' He said before taking one look at the beautiful decorations. ''Beautiful...'' He then sighed dreamily.

''Yes, looks like the decor is coming along just nicely. This ought to be quick, I'll be at the library in no time. You're right about one thing, they're beautiful indeed.'' Twilight agreed on where they were placed and how beautiful they all looked. ''No...not the decor, her,'' Spike said as he shook his head and pointed to another unicorn pony.

This pony's coat was white, she had a purple mane and tail which were wavy, a pair of dark blue eyes, light blue eye-shadow, and a cutie mark of three blue lozenge diamonds. But what caught Spike's attention the most, was that she was very gorgeous. The unicorn was currently going through the different ribbons to see which one would be best to have.

''No, no, no, oh! Great Scott no.'' She said to herself. All the while, Spike had the looks of someone who just fell in love instantly.

''How are my spines? Are they straight?'' He asked Twilight with excitement, trying to make himself look good.

Twilight rolled her eyes while laughing in her mind before going over to greet the white unicorn. Looks like someone has a crush.

''Good afternoon...'' Twilight began, the unicorn then spoke before Twilight could even say anything else.

''Just a moment, please! I'm in the zone.'' She said while looking through a couple more ribbons.

''Oh, yes. A touch of sparkle always does the trick does it not? Why, Rarity, you really are a talent.'' The mare called Rarity said after finding the perfect red ribbon. She then turned towards Twilight before speaking.

''Now, um, how can I help yo...'' But before she could continue to speak, Rarity took notice of Twilight's messy mane and yelped in surprise. ''Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!'' She asked as if she was afraid of Twilight's messy mane.

''Oh, you mean my mane? Well, it's a long story. Anyways, I'm just here to check up on the decorations and then I'll be out of your hair.'' Twilight said after taking notice of why Rarity was frightened.

''Out of my hair? What about your hair?'' Rarity said before trotting over to Twilight. She then started pushing Twilight somewhere. ''Wait! Where are we going?! Help!'' Twilight called out, but Rarity still insisted that she come with her to fix her mane and tail. The situation with Twilight is bad enough when Spike is following Rarity and is completely oblivious to the situation at hand.

At the place known as Carousel Boutique...

Rarity was trying to find the outfit that suited Twilight best, but unfortunately for the purple unicorn, the white mare was taking ages to find the best one.

''No, no, uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. To frilly. Too...shiny.'' She said as she got Twilight to try on several outfits, eventually, she found a perfect outfit for Twilight.

''Now go on, my dear. You were telling me about where you're from.'' Rarity asked Twilight as she was tightening the outfit that she had on her. ''I've...been sent...from Canterlot...to...'' Twilight managed to say, it was hard to speak because of Rarity tightening the outfit. After hearing the word Canterlot however, Rarity stopped tightening and let go, causing Twilight to crash on the other side of the boutique.

''Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living up there! I can't wait to hear all about it! We are going to be the best of friends, you and I...'' Rarity said with absolute delight to know that Twilight was from Canterlot...until she noticed that there was something off about the outfit Twilight was wearing. ''Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!'' She said with glee as she ran off to find some rubies.

But to Twilight, she knew this was bad. ''Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color!'' Twilight said before running off. Spike on the other hand was just too distracted to run.

With Sunset and Jake...

"So, Sunset, what do you think of this place so far?” Jaek asked as he was on Sunset's back.

"So far, not bad, the ponies here are quite friendly than the ones Canterlot," Sunset replied.

Suddenly, the two hear chirping from birds.

“Shh,” Sunset says before hiding in a bush. She looked out to see the source of the music; it was a flock of different birds all singing together.

However, they weren't doing this by themselves, they were actually taught how to sing like that by another female pegasus pony. Unlike the last pegasus, this one was different. Her coat was light yellow, her mane and tail were pink and her eyes were teal colored. She also had a cutie mark consisting of three butterflies with cyan bodies and pink wings.

She was currently working on the birds' singing and then noticed that one of the birds was singing out of the key. ''Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, um.'' The yellow pegasus said politely, one thing that was noted about her, she was really shy. The pegasus then flew up to the bluebird who was singing off-key. ''Excuse me, sir? I mean, no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off.'' She said in the nicest possible way.

After speaking nice, the yellow pegasus then prepared to hear her bird friends sing gain. ''Alright now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three...'' She said, preparing to teach her birds to sing again until another voice spoke up.

“Hello?” Sunset’s voice spoke, startling the birds, and the yellow pegasus. She turned to see the changeling giant behind her.

“Oh, I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to scare your birds away,” Sunset said. “I’m just here to check on the music. “I’m Sunset, what’s your name?”

“I’m Fluttershy.” She answered quietly.

“I’m sorry, what was that?”

“Um…..I’m Fluttershy.” She repeated, speaking very shyly.

“I’m really sorry, I didn’t catch that,” Bandit said then Jake hopped off.

“I think she said her name was Fluttershy,” Jake said. Fluttershy lets out a gasp as she zips over to Jake.

“Oh my goodness! A baby dragon!"She happily said, scaring off the birds that just come back. “Aren’t you just the cutest thing!”

Jake blushes happily.

“Hehe, thank you.” He said bashfully.

“What’s your name?” Fluttershy asked.

"Jake."

“Well Jake, you are such a cutie pie. Is he yours?"

"Yeah, I hatch him when I did the entrance exam for Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. He's been with me since I remember one time when he was little he would sneak out of the Princess's quarters and only sleep with me knawing on my mane all night," Sunset chuckled a bit.

"You know I never met a dragon before, can you care to tell me about them? You specifically?" Fluttershy asked.

"Well, it started like this...." Jake told his story.

Fluttershy and Jake were still talking about Chad by the time the sun was setting into the mountains. ''...and that's the story of my whole entire life...well up until today that is," Jake said, finally finishing his story.

“That is all very fascinating,” Fluttershy said with a smile. Sunset looked ahead and saw Twilight running to the library and sliding to a stop. She still had on the outfit Rarity put her in.

“Oh, hi Twilight. Is that new” Sunset tried to ask, but Twilight ran inside the library. Sunset looked back at Fluttershy. “Nice meeting you Flutter-” Twilight opened the door, grabbed Sunset, and pulled her inside. “-shy.”

Inside the dark library, the four walked to the middle of the room.

“Way to be rude, Twilight. She was pretty nice,” Sunset said as Twilight took the outfit off and threw it across the room.

“Sorry, but we have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where's the light?” Twilight said.

The lights came on, revealing the library to be full of ponies. Twilight and Spike jumped out of surprise.

“Surprise!” The ponies exclaimed. A kazoo blows next to them. Twilight lets out an annoyed groan.

“Surprise!” The pink pony from earlier exclaimed. “Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?”

“Very. For many reasons, the number one being how did you get in here?”

“I thought libraries are supposed to be quiet,” Twilight said.

“Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all [deep gasp], remember? Y'see I've never seen you before and if I've never seen you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville!” Pinkie Pie said in a jolly tone. Bandit gave an unamused look and walked to the table. Twilight walked beside him.

“And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went [deep gasp]! I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!” Pinkie explained. As she was talking, Twilight was pouring herself a drink but she didn't know that she was pouring in hot sauce.

"Uh, Twilight,” She said trying to warn her. Right on cue, Twilight got red in the face and began tearing up.

“Are you all right, sugarcube?” Applejack asked.

“She doesn’t look too good," Rainbow said. Twilight ran off upstairs.

“Aww, she's so happy she's crying!” Pinkie said. Jake picked up the hot sauce.

“Hot sauce.” He read. He poured some onto a cupcake and ate it. “Hmm…. could use some sprinkles.”

Then everyone looked at him.

"What? I'm a dragon. I like it spicy," Jake defended himself.

As the party was going on downstairs, Twilight was on her bed, looking out of the window, as well as at the clock.

Then Sunset came in.

"Hey, Twilight, you're missing the fun! Pinkie Pie is about to start Pin the Tail on The Pony," Sunset said. "Do want to join?"

"No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?!” Twilight exclaimed.

“It's the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they'll miss the Princess Raise the sun,” Sunset explained but Twilight deadpanned her. "I get it, we're supposed to be finding a way to learn more about the elements but you should light up and have some fun, the princess said she had to take precautions of it. Buck, maybe she won't come. Anyway, it's time to watch the sunrise."

Sunset closes the door leaving Twilight in the room looking at the window.

"Maybe Sunset's right? What if it is only an old pony tale?" Twilight felt dejected then headed out as well.

The four walked to the town hall. Everypony from Ponyville had gathered to watch their beloved Princess raise the sun. It was the building where Twilight had met Rarity before. Pinkie hopped beside them.

“Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited— well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went-” Pinkie performed a deep gasp. “-but I mean really, who can top that?” As Pinkie spotted,

At that moment, a fanfare done by Fluttershy and her birds was heard and a spotlight was pointed onto the stage where the town's mayor was. "Fillies and gentle colts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!" Mayor Mare spoke as everypony cheered.

"Sunset, I got a bad feeling about this," Twilight told her.

"You don't have to tell me twice," Sunset nodded and then looked at the moon to see it was a full moon. What the buck? Why is it a full moon? Oh ****!

"And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria..." The Mayor continued, getting everypony excited.

"Ready?" Fluttershy asked her birds who were all prepared to sing. "...Princess Celestia!" The Mayor announced, allowing the spotlight to be pointed to the balcony for her appearance. When that happened the fanfare started up again and Rarity drew back the curtains to reveal...

Nopony…

"Huh?" Rarity said as she and many other ponies chatted quietly but nervously about this.

"Ohh, this can't be good," Twilight said.

"Princess Celestia?” Sunset said with confusion.

"Remain calm everypony. There must be a reasonable explanation for this!" The Mayor said, feeling nervous herself.

"Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?" Pinkie asked with excitement.

"She's gone!" Rarity exclaimed. Speaking this had caused everypony to gasp in horror.

"Ooh, she's good!" Pinkie said, but suddenly yelped when a dark blue mist appeared on the platform, making everypony very frightened. "Oh no...it's..." Twilight started.

She got cut off as the mist formed a tall black mare with terrifying wings, a sharp horn, dragon-shaped pupils, a cutie mark of a luminous moon, and a flowing mane and tail made from the same mist thus making Jake gulp, and Spike fainted. And Twilight's worst nightmare had come true as Nightmare Moon had returned.

"Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces." Nightmare Moon spoke as everyone cowered in fear...well, apart from one pony.

"What did you do with our Princess?!" Rainbow Dash asked angrily before trying to take on Nightmare Moon, only to be stopped by Applejack. "Woah there Nelly..." She said with a muffled voice as Nightmare Moon chuckled evilly. "Why, am I not royal enough for any of you? Don't any of you know who I am?" The wicked mare asked with everypony too afraid to answer.

"Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about...Queen Meanie! No Black Snooty, Black Snooty..." Pinkie said before Applejack shoved a cupcake into her mouth.

"Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for 1000 years?" Nightmare Moon asked angrily towards Fluttershy. "Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?" She continued while taunting Rarity.

"I did!" Everypony turned around to Sunset speaking up. "I know who you are! You're the Mare in the Moon, Nightmare Moon!" then all the ponies gasped.

"Looks like some pony does remember me," Nightmare Moon chuckles a bit. "Not that I know. Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last day ever. So from this moment forth, the night will last FOREVER!" Nightmare Moon said as she laughed wickedly with thunder appearing now the question remains who can stop her from bringing nighttime eternal?

To be continued...

Author's Note

Well, what a way to start.

Join us next time, as Twilight and Sunset must find a way to stop Nightmare Moon before it is too late...

Chapter 2-From Dusk to Dawn Part 2

Previously on MLP: Friendship Blazes...

Twilight: Have you heard about the Mare in the Moon?

Sunset: That old pony tale about a nightmare alicorn named Nightmare Moon who wanted to bring the everlasting night to Equestria but was stopped by Celestia?

Twilight: We must warn Princess Celestia, at once!

Spike: What about making friends?

Twilight: Like the fate of Equestria, I will rely on making friends.

Sunset: I get it, we're supposed to be finding a way to learn more about the elements but you should light up and have some fun, the princess said she had taken precautions for it. Buck, maybe she won't come. Anyway, it's time to watch the sunrise.

Rarity: She's gone!

Nightmare Moon: Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last day ever. So from this moment forth, the night will last FOREVER!

Nightmare Moon let out a burst of maniacal laughter as she stood above the frightened ponies.

“Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!” Mayor Mare ordered. The three royal guards flew towards Nightmare Moon.

“Stand back, you foals!” Nightmare Moon said. She laughs as she strikes them with lightning. The guards hit the ground.

"You guys okay?" Sunset went to check on them.

“We’re fine.” The lead guard said. Sunset looked up to see Nightmare Moon had turned into a tantabus and flew out the door.

Then immediately followed by Rainbow Dash.

“Get back here!! You coward!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she looked down and saw Sunset and Twilight running out of the building.

“Where are they going?” Rainbow Dash asked.

At the Golden Oak Libray...

"Sleep tight, guys," Sunset said to Jake and Spike who were sleeping. "We'll fix this."

Sunset headed to see Twilight searching through the library.

"How's the search?" Sunset asked her but Twilight didn't answer.

“Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?” Twilight asked as she looked through the books. Rainbow Dash zipped in and went nose-to-nose with her.

“And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you a spy?” Rainbow Dash accused then she ducked from a magic blast from Sunset.

"Slow your flank, Dash! We're not spies!" Sunset exclaimed before the two got in each other faces only for Applejack to get between them.

“Simmer down Sally, they ain’t no spies. But they sure know what’s going on. Don’t you?” Applejack asked them.

"Yes, both of us have read a prediction about Nightmare Moon," Twilight explained. "Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Found it. ‘The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide.’.” Pinkie said, trotting over with the book. Twilight grabbed the book in a snatch.

“How did you find that?!” Twilight exclaimed.

"It was under E!" She cheerfully exclaimed.

"Oh. There are seven elements of Harmony but only six are known. Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, Empathy, and Loyalty," Twilight said.

"What about the seventh?" Rarity asked.

"The seventh is a complete mystery. It is said, that the last known location of the elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now--” Twilight read. They transition to the entrance of-

“The Everfree Forest!” The 7 of them said.

"Well then what waiting for? Let's go!" Rainbow Dash said before being stopped by Twilight.

“What? No! You girls can’t come either.” Twilight said.

“Why not?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“We’d rather do this on our own. Putting you in danger is something I’d like to avoid.”

“No can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friends of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple.” Applejack said as she and the others trotted into the forest.

“Especially if there are candy apples in there,” Pinkie said as she trotted into the forest.

"It doesn't hurt to have some company, there's strength in numbers," Sunset told her.

A couple of minutes into the forest and trot, the ponies, except for Pinkie looked unsettled as they walked.

“So, none of you have been in here before?” Sunset asked them. Rather unfazed by the spooky setting the seven arrived at a cliff.

“Ugh, heavens no! Just look at it - it's dreadful.” Rarity said.

“And it ain't natural. Folks say it doesn't work the same as Equestria.” Applejack said.

“What does that mean?”

"No pony knows," Rainbow spoke up. "Cause everypony who's ever come in has never come out!”

It was at that moment that a chunk of the cliff they were standing on started to collapse. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew into the air right as the others started to slide down the cliff.

"Fluttershy, quick! Let's save them!"

“Oh my goodness, oh my goodness,” Fluttershy said as both of them flew to save them.

Rainbow Dash grabs Pinkie Pie and flies into the air and Fluttershy grabs Rarity’s tail and pulls it to slow her down. With Sunset, she slid down the mountain and landed her on hooves with no problem.

Applejack slides to a branch and grabs onto a branch to stop her from sliding. This was until she saw Twilight slide to the edge. Twilight managed to stop herself from going over the edge and holding on.

“Hold on! I'm a-comin’!” Applejack said, releasing the branch and sliding down to Twilight and grabbing onto her hooves.

“Applejack! What do I do?” Twilight asked, holding on tight. Applejack held on for a moment before looking up. She then looked at Twilight.

“Let go.” She said. Twilight looked at her shocked.

“Are you crazy?” Twilight exclaimed.

“No, I ain't. I promise you'll be safe.” Applejack said.

“That's not true!” Twilight said in a panicked manner.

“Now listen here. What I'm sayin' to you is the truth. Let go, and you'll be safe.” Applejack reassured. Twilight looked like she trusted her, took the chance, and let go.

She screams as she falls, this was before she landed on the ground due to Sunset and her magic bringing her down safely.

"Uh, Twi, you can open your eyes," Sunset told her.

"Oh, my bad."

The tantabus form that caused the cliff to collapse, travels to a manticore as the group continues.

“By the way, thanks for reassuring me that Twilight will be okay.”

“Well, I’m glad to do my part,” Applejack said. This is when the manticore the tantabus irritated stepped in front of them with a growl.

“Manticore!” Rarity exclaimed.

"We gotta get past it!" Twilight said.

The first one the manticore attacked was Rarity. Swiping with his right paw, he attempts to smack her, but she ducks and kicks him in the face with her hind hooves. The manticore staggers back.

“Take that, you ruffian!” She boasted. She was rewarded with a roar that frazzled her mane.

“My hair!” She looked at the manticore, gasped, and quickly ran away.

“Wait.” Fluttershy softly said. The manticore briefly runs out after her, only to feel Applejack jump onto his back. He quickly tries to buck her off.

“YEE-HAW! Git along, little dogie.” Applejack said as she held on.

“Wait,” Fluttershy said, a little louder. The manticore roars before officially bucking Applejack off of his back.

“Whoa!” She exclaimed as she was thrown through the air. “All yours, partner.” She said to Rainbow Dash.

"On it!"

Flying around it to keep it confused. The manticore used its tail to bat Rainbow Dash away.

“Rainbow!” Twilight exclaimed.

"We could use a hand here!"

"No problem!" Sunset charged her horn and the rest headed straight for the manticore.

“WAIT!” Fluttershy exclaimed, stopping both parties.

Fluttershy walked to the Manticore, with the beast revved back its paw again.

"It's okay," Fluttershy reassured. The manticore then showed its paw, which had a thorn in it. “Oh, you poor, poor baby,” Fluttershy said.

“Little?” Applejack and Rainbow Dash said.

“Jinx.” Rainbow Dash quickly said.

“Dang it!” Applejack exclaimed. Rainbow Dash laughed at her a little.

"Now it's going to hurt a little bit," Fluttershy warned then pulled it out and the manticore roared then proceeded to lick her mane.

“Aw you're just a little ol' baby kitty, aren't you? Yes you are, yes you are.” Fluttershy said as the others moved their way past them.

“How did you know about the thorn?” Twilight asked her.

"I didn’t know before hoof. Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.” Fluttershy said.

“Let’s be grateful that wasn’t a Tigrischirophidio. Those guys are hard to tame,” Sunset commented.

Twilight soon followed behind him. The tantabus undisguised itself and flew after them again.

The 7 of them continued their trek through the forest, progressing into the more, murkier parts of the forest.

“No. My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck.” Rarity said, just before walking into a much darker part of the forest, impairing her vision. “Well, I didn't mean that literally.”

"Everypony stays close to me. I have pretty good night vision," Sunset said.

“I can’t see you,” Applejack said.

“I’m to your left Applejack,” Sunset said.

“Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin',” Applejack said, just as Fluttershy screamed in her direction, confusing the apple farm mare. “It's just mud.”

She looked at the tree and saw how scary it looked, and she could have sworn she heard it growl at her. She jumped back with a scream.

The ponies watched in terror as they were seemingly surrounded by scary-looking trees. Yet, only Pinkie was laughing and giggling making silly faces.

Pinkie! What are you doing?! Run!!” Twilight yelled.

“Oh girls, don't you see?” Pinkie said before bouncing in place.

[Pinkie]

When I was a little filly and the sun was going down…

“Tell me she's not…” Twilight tried to say.

[Pinkie]

The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown…

“She is.” Rarity said as Pinkie continued to sing as if it were magic, the scary face of the tree they were facing, disappeared.

The group lay down on the ground and laughed, the scary faces disappeared and the forest’s moonlight shone through once again.

Pinkie was hopping along the path, still laughing with the girls. She stops at the edge of the water rapids, The 6 ponies behind her bump into her,

“How are we gonna cross this?” Pinkie asked.

All of them heard distant crying and they looked at where it came from.

“What a world, what a world.” The crying voice said belonging to a sea serpent with his mustache sliced off crying.

"Excuse us, why are you crying?" Twilight asked.

“Well, I don't know. I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid.” The sea serpent said gesturing to the half stash he was missing.

“Oh it was torn off, I thought it was a bad shave day,” Sunset commented. The serpent started wailing after that.

The mares glared at her.

“I said that out loud didn’t I?” Sunset asked. “Look, I’m sorry about your mustache Mr.-” started.

“Magnet. Steven Magnet.”

“Mr. Magnet. I’m sorry about your mustache, and for being insensitive a few seconds ago. But, you uh……. Look just as good with only half your mustache than with the full thing.” Sunset said. Steven started wailing dramatically again.

“Did you think that was gonna work?” Applejack asked.

“No, but it was worth a shot,” Sunset said. This is when Rarity walked forward.

“How can you be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales.” Rarity said, brushing his muzzle. Steven sniffled a little.

“I know.” He said.

“And your expertly coiffed mane.” She said, pointing to his hair.

“Oh, I know, I know.” Magnet said as he ran his claws throw it.

“Your fabulous manicure.” Rarity said. Steven gasped.

“It's so true!” He said.

“All ruined without your beautiful mustache.” Rarity said. The purple serpentine became saddened.

“It's true, I'm hideous!” Steven said before wailing.

“I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected.” Rarity said with a determined look. She walked over and plucked a scale off of him.

“Ow! What did you do that for?” Steven asked.

Rarity readied the scale.

“Rarity, what are you about to” Bandit tried to ask, his jaw dropped as Rarity cut off her tail. She then used her magic to attach the tail to Steven’s mustache.

“Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful.” Steven said with a smile.

“You look smashing.” Rarity said.

“Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail…” Twilight said. Rarity looked at her tail and turned to Twilight.

“Oh. It's fine, my dear. Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back.” Rarity said.

“So would the mustache.” Rainbow Dash said.

“The rapids are gone, we can cross now,” Pinkie said. Steven made a bridge with his body.

“Allow me.” Steven offered. The group hopped along his body and got to the other side.

The group makes it to a cliff that leads to the castle. Twilight’s eyes brightened as she saw the entrance.

“There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it!” Twilight said as she started running to the bridge.

“Wait for us Twilight,” Applejack said.

Sunset ran ahead of the other 6 and grabbed Twilight’s tail right before her front hooves dangled over the cliff where the bridge was out.

“I know this is stressful, but no need to go over the edge just yet.” Bandit joked. Twilight rolled her eyes and stood up.

“Now what?” Pinkie asked.

"Ahem," Rainbow as she unfolded her wings. “You guys stay here, I’ll get the bridge.”

Rainbow Dash flew ahead to the other side of the bridge then tied one end to the one post before looking at the other one.

“Rainbow….. Rainbow….” A voice called out for.

“Huh? Who’s there?” She asked.

“We’ve been waiting for you.” The voice repeated.

“I ain't scared of you! Show yourself!” She said, punching her hooves.

“About time we gained the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria.” The voice said.

“Who?” Rainbow Dash asked then three peagasi dressed in black racer suits approached her.

“We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts. We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain. The most magnificent-” The Shadowbolt leader said.

“Yep.” Rainbow dash acknowledged

“Swiftest.”

“Yes.”

“Bravest flyer in all the land.” The leader finished.

“All true.” Rainbow Dash boasted.

“We need…… you.” The Shadowbolt leader said.

“WOOHOO! Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal.” She said as she attempted to tie the other rope to the podium. The three shadowbolts zipped over and stood between her and the rope.

“No! It's them or us.” The leader told her. Rainbow Dash looked at the other end of the bridge to see Twilight and the others.

“Rainbow! Don't listen-.” Twilight attempted to warn, but one of the shadowbolts turned his head, lit up his eyes and the clouds moved in front of the bridge, muffling her voice. Rainbow Dash began to look conflicted.

“Well?” The shadow bolt leader asked.

“You.” Rainbow Dash admitted. The trio grins, thinking that she abandoned her friends. “Thank you! For the offer, I mean, but I'm afraid I have to say no.”

“What!? Don’t you want to be a part of a team of the best flyers in all of Equestria?” The leader tried to tempt again.

“I do, but I’m not gonna leave my friends hanging. Especially after making it this far.” Rainbow Dash said as she started to fly back. The shadowbolts turned back into tantabus and floated off.

The clouds moved away and Rainbow Dash flew back to the others.

The ponies cheered as they walked across the bridge.

“Good job Rainbow,” Twilight said.

"Like I said, I'd never leave my friends hangin'.” Rainbow Dash said as they crossed the bridge.

The seven walk into the castle and Bandit closes the door behind them. They see a podium with stone spheres on the ledges.

“Oooooh,” Pinkie said as they looked at the orbs.

“The Elements of Harmony, we've found them,” Twilight said. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash flew up to grab them. “Careful, careful!”

The two put the stones down. Rarity counted them and realized they were short.

“Wait, there’s only seven.” She said.

“The book said: when the seven are present, a spark will cause the eighth Element to be revealed,” Twilight said.

“What in tarnation is that supposed to mean?” Applejack asked.

“Not too sure, but I got an idea. Everyone stand back, I’m not sure what will happen.” Twilight said. She lights up her horn. Applejack started to walk out the door.

“Come on now y'all, She needs to concentrate,” Applejack said as she walked out. The others follow her and Sunset is the last one to head to the door.

The tantabus from before floated over to the elements and began to make them spin as Twilight’s eyes were shut tight. Sunset turned and noticed this.

“Twilight! The elements!” She exclaimed. Twilight opened her eyes and looked at what was happening with a gasp.

Outside, the other six heard the commotion and got worried.

“Come on! We gotta get back in there!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she flew to the door.

Sunset ran to the tantabus and jumped at it to grab the elements. It disappeared in a flash, with her in it right as the six ran inside.

“Bandit! No!” Twilight exclaimed as she reached out.

The ponies started to clamor over each other, wondering where Bandit went.

Twilight was sparking her horn, trying desperately to do something. Eventually, her magic conjured up and it started blinking red. The aura of Sunset's magic. She looked around the magic grew dimmer when she looked away from where Bandit was located, and brighter when she looked in it.

“Look!” Rarity said as she pointed to a castle where the windows were glowing bright. Twilight looked and the castle, and her horn grew even brighter.

“Sunset's there, let's move!” She said as she shut her horn off and ran out the door. The others followed.

Sunset wound up transported into the other castle. She coughs a few times before looking up at Nightmare Moon, who is not only physical but has the elements surrounding her. She lets out an evil laugh. Sunset stood up and got ready to charge.

“You’re kidding. You’re kidding, right?” She asked him, unamused.

Sunset' rears and then starts charging forward. Nightmare Moon charges at him in response. Her horn began to spark as he charged.

The two got close enough for a collision, but before they could collide, Sunset teleported to the elements, causing Nightmare Moon to skid to a halt.

“One spark, coming up.” She said. She rears back and sends a beam of magic at the six elements. They started glowing in response.

“Yes!” She said. Nightmare Moon sent an electric shock at Sunset, sending her flying back. As she hits the ground, Nightmare Moon flies over and looks at the elements fearfully.

“No, no!” She exclaimed. Then, just like that, the glow went away. Sunset looked up, shocked.

“What the buck!? Where's the seventh?” Sunset asked in a slight panic. Nightmare Moon laughed and stomped her hoof on the ground, breaking the elements.

“You ignorant foal! Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your princess or your sun! The night will last forever!” Nightmare Moon said with an evil laugh. Sunset stood back up and got in a defensive stance.

“If you think I’m gonna let this happen, you got another thing coming,” Sunset said.

“You’re foolish to try and-...... did you just say I have another think coming?” Nightmare Moon asked.

"You heard me!" Sunset shouted as charged her horn.

Then, she hears her friends talking over each other. She turns and her pupils dilated with realization. She smirks and turns to Nightmare Moon. Nice plan, Princess.

"For being The Mare in the Moon, you sure aren't bright on your history. Did you think you destroyed them that easily? I hate to break the bad news, but you're dead wrong because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here.” Sunset said as the group came into the room.

“Huh?” Twilight asked as Sunset turned to them.

"The elements have been with us ever since we stepped into the Everfree Forest," Sunset told her which made Twilight’s eyes spark as she also realized this.

"When Celestia told me the story of how she and Luna defeated Discord, Bedlam, and King Scarlet with the elements. She never once said that she had them. She said that she and her sister represented them.”

Fragments of the elements started to float up and glow, much to the surprise of Nightmare Moon.

“What!?” She exclaimed.

"Applejack, who reassured Twilight when she was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty!"

"Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness!"

"Me, Who shows reassurance every step of the way, represents the spirit of empathy!"

"Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter!"

"Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity!"

"And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of... loyalty! The spirits of these seven ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us.” Sunset said. As he listed them off, fragments of the elements began to circle them. Nightmare Moon began to get worried.

“You still don’t have the final elements! The spark didn’t work.” She said.

“But it did! A different kind of spark.” Twilight said before turning to her friends, “I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside us when I realized that you all… my friends!" As the final element appeared before her. "You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the eighth element, The Element of Magic!"

The fragments surrounding the others began to form necklaces with jewels on them that corresponded with their cutie marks. Except for Twilight’s which turned into a crown.

A rainbow beam flies from them and towards Nightmare Moon.

“Nooo! Nooo!” She exclaimed as she was consumed by the beam.

The seven ponies were sprawled out on the ground, tired from what just happened. One by one, they stand up.

“Ugh. My head.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Everypony okay?” Applejack asked as she stood up.

“Oh, thank goodness.” Rarity was heard saying. They looked at Rarity and saw that her tail was back to normal.

“Why Rarity, it's so lovely,” Fluttershy said to her.

“I know! I'll never part with it again.” She said as she nuzzled her tail.

“No. Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark.” Fluttershy pointed out. Rarity looked at the similarities before noticing that nearly everyone else’s did too.

“So does yours.” Rarity said. Fluttershy looked at hers and gasped with delight.

“Look at mine! Look at mine!” Pinkie exclaimed as she hopped over to the group.

"Amazing," Sunset exclaimed looking at her.

“Aw yeah!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

“Gee, you two! I thought y’all were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we do represent the elements of friendship.” Applejack said with a smile.

“Indeed you do.” A voice said. The seven look to the window not only to see the sun rising but also Princess Celestia return to them. All but Twilight and Sunset bowed.

"Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, my faithful students, I knew you could do it."

"But you told me it was just an old ponies tale," Twilight said to her.

"Twil, the letter she sent to us, that she was already aware of the prophecy," Sunset reminded her.

"Sunset's right, I told the two of you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more.” She said to them. “I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you two who had the magic and courage inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now if only another will as well.” She said before looking at a young alicorn.

“Princess Luna.” She called. The alicorn looked up at her and gasped.

“It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister.” Celestia revealed. She walked over to Luna and sat down.

“Sister?!” The ponies said in shock except for Sunset.

“Will you accept my friendship?” She asked as she stood up. The ponies all looked in suspense.

“I'm so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!” Luna said as she nuzzled Celestia.

Pinkie wiped a tear from her eye before smiling.

“Hey, you know what this calls for?” Pinkie asked.

"What?" Sunset asked.

“A Party!” Pinkie exclaimed happily. Ponies were running to the party held in Ponyville. A chariot pulled Celestia and Luna to a crowd. Spike and Jake run ahead of the crowd to greet Twilight and Sunset.

Celestia and Luna stood in front of a bowing crowd. Luna looked glum before two fillies came over and placed a flower necklace on her. Her grim turned to a grin.

Sunset looked at the crowd with a smile before looking at a glum Twilight. Before she could ask, Celestia beat him to it.

“Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot?” She asked.

“That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, Now we have to leave them.” Twilight said.

"Yeah, it kinda sucks," Sunset agreed with her but Celestia had an idea on her face.

“Spike, take a note please,” Celestia said. Spike takes out a piece of paper and takes a quill out of Chad’s hoodie pocket. He writes what Celestia says. “I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorns Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer shall take on a new mission for Equestria. They must continue to study the magic of friendship. They must report to me their findings from their new home in Ponyville.”

“We get to stay! We get to stay!” Twilight said happily. “I'll study harder than ever before,” Twilight said as she and Sunset did their secret hoofshake.

"We won't let you down princess," Sunset said to her as the ponies cheered.

In an unknown location...

“Master,” An earth stallion with a cutie mark of black diamond runs to what appears to be a throne room.

“Shadow Diamond, how many times have I told you not to slam the doors? They are hard to repair!” The figure exclaimed at him.

“Sorry sir, but you have to see this,” The pony known as Black Diamond shows him a photo of Celestia, Luna, and the Mane 7.

“What? Celestia beat Luna?! And Luna's good again!? Explain!” the figure growled.

"Actually... It was these ponies who fought Nightmare Moon," He swiped to the next picture, a picture of the Mane 7. "They're the new Elements of Harmony!"

“Strange, the princess of the sun had others do her work,” the figure wondered. “Just what are you up to? Celestia.”

“What happens now?” Shadow Diamond bowed to the figure.

“For now, we do nothing, when the time is right, we shall make Equestria our kingdom!” The figure grinned as right eye glow red.

Author's Note

What a way to kick off this amazing story!

I have lot of twists and turns later

Be sure to fave, leave feedback, and (Please) comment. See you in the next episode.

Chapter 3-The Ticket Problem

It was a beautiful sunny morning at Sweet Apple Acres, as Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer spent the day helping Applejack around the farm. They had both been working hard to gather basket after basket of apples from the orchard. Spike and Jake were enjoying a comfy ride along both Sunset and Twilight's back, apparently entertaining themselves by separating the fresh apples from the... Not-so-fresh apples.

"No, nope, nope..." Spike muttered, tossing apples from Twilight's basket.

"Thanks for allowing us to help on the farm today," Twilight thanked.

"Thank you kindly, Twilight and Sunset, for helping me out," Applejack said. "I bet Big MacIntosh that I could get all these Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. If I win, he's going to walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny's girdles."

"I'll be honest AJ, I'll pay top bit to see that," Sunset chuckled.

"No problem at all, Applejack," Twilight said. "I'm glad the goal is lunchtime. All this hard work is making me hungry."

"I know, right?" Spike asked.

"Spike, all we did was separate the good and bad," Jake replied.

"Exactly!" Spike said, missing his point. "You three were taking so long, I missed snack time."

Then Sunset's stomach growled which blushed like crazy.

"Okay, that was embarrassing," Sunset replied.

"Ooh, a big one!" Jake found a big, red juicy one but Spike grabbed it from him and ate it. "What the heck man!?"

"Tasty?" Spike said then burp out a scroll.

"It's a letter from Princess Celestia," Twilight gasped. Spike cleared his throat shortly before opening it.

"Hear ye, hear ye," He read aloud. "Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle, Sunset Shimmer, and one guest."

Applejack and Twilight just smile and gasp excitedly.

"The Grand Galloping Gala!"

"Oh, buck!" Sunset groaned as three tickets came out following a Spike burp.

"Look, three tickets!" Spike said.

"Wow, great!" Twilight said. "I've never been to the gala. Have you, Spike?"

"No, and I plan to keep it that way," Spike said. "I don't want any of that girly frilly frou-frou nonsense."

"Aw, come on Spike," Twilight said. "A dance would be nice."

"Twi, that place is filled with stuck-ups and snobs, I will die of boredom," Jake exclaimed.

"Nice?" Applejack said. "It's a heap good more than just nice. I'd love to go. Land sakes, if I had an apple stand set up, ponies would be chowin' our tasty vittles 'til the cows came home. Do you have any idea how much business I could drum up for Sweet Apple Acres?"

"A lot of money," Sunset answered.

"Exactly," Applejack said. "Why, with all that money, we could do a heap of fixin' up ‘round here. We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big MacIntosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip."

"Why, I'd give my left hind leg to go to that gala," Applejack finished.

"In that case, would you like to go, Applejack... Whoa!" Sunset was about to ask before Rainbow Dash came in unexpectedly. "What the buck, Dash! Warn a mare before dive bombing!"

"Ugh," Rainbow groaned.

It didn't take long for the Pegasus to quickly hop back into the air, while the others were still crouched onto the ground.

"Are we talking about the Grand Galloping Gala?"

"Rainbow Dash!" Applejack snapped, rising to her hooves. "You told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples. What were you busy doing? Spyin'?"

"No, I was busy napping," Rainbow Dash replied.

"And I just happened to hear that you two have an extra ticket?” Rainbow finished.

"Yeah, but—"

"YES!" Rainbow cut off Twilight. "This is so awesome. The Wonderbolts perform at the Grand Galloping Gala every year. I can see it now. Everyone would be watching the sky. Their eyes riveted on the Wonderbolts, but then it would fly Rainbow Dash! I would draw their attention with my Super Speed Strut," Rainbow continued. "Then I would mesmerize ‘em with my Fantastic Filly Flash. And for my grand finale, the Buccaneer Blaze! The ponies would go wild!"

"The Wonderbolts would insist that my signature moves be incorporated into their routine, and then welcome me as their newest member."

"Don't you see, guys?" Rainbow asked excitedly. "This could be my one chance to show 'em my stuff. You gotta take me!"

Rainbow was suddenly interrupted by a tug against her tail, which brought her down to the ground.

"Hold on just one pony pickin' minute here," Applejack said, with a hard spit. "I asked for that ticket first!"

"So?" Rainbow shot back. "That doesn't mean you own it."

"Oh, yeah? Well, I challenge you to a hoof-wrestle. The winner gets the ticket."

The two ponies found a nearby stump and began to groan loudly trying to out-stretch each other but Sunset stopped them.

"Okay you two, I love that you two are showing who's the stronger mare here, but we were given the tickets, so it's our choice here who gets to go based on the best reason to go."

"Drummin' up business for the farm?" Applejack proposed.

"A chance to audition for the Wonderbolts?" Rainbow proposed.

"Money to fix Granny's hip," Applejack added.

"Living the dream," Rainbow added.

"Oh my, those were all pretty good reasons, aren't they?" Twilight concluded.

Just then, both their stomachs start to rumble. The two unicorns chuckle at each other.

"Listen to that, I am starving," Twilight said, as Spike climbed on her back. "I don't know about you, but I can't make important decisions on an empty stomach."

"Can't think on empty belly, so, we'll, uh, think about it over lunch, and get back to you two, okay?"

"Okay," Applejack and Rainbow said sadly.

Once Sunset and Twilight left the farm, the Earth Pony and Pegasus glared at each other. Not wasting a second, they began to arm wrestle once more, determined to prove who was the best.

Much later...

"So, who are you gonna give the tickets to, you guys?" Spike asked.

"I don't know Spike," Twilight admitted. "But I really can't think straight when I'm hungry, so where should we eat?"

"I was thinking..." Sunset was suggested to something then barreled into them at high speed The quick impact made the tickets float from Spike's hands and land right on Pinkie's nose.

"GAH!" Pinkie shouted, dashing about. "Bats! Bats on my face! Help!"

Amid her excitement, Pinkie Pie came to a stop when she noticed the front of the tickets, looking very closely.

"Wait, these aren't... tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?! It's the most amazing incredible tremendous super-fun wonderful terrifically humongous party in all of Equestria! I've always, always, always wanted to go!"

Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!

Oh, the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!

Hip hip

Hooray!

It's the best place for me

"With the decorations like streamers and fairy lights and pinwheels and pinatas and pin-cushions. With goodies like sugar cubes sugar canes sundaes and unbeams and sarsaparilla. And I get to play my favorite-est of favorite fantabulous games like Pin the Tail on the Pony!"

Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!

Oh, the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me!

‘Cause it's the most calorific superbly-terrific gala ever

In the whole galaxy!

"Oh thank you, Twilight and Sunset," Pinkie said happily. "It's the most wonderful-est gift ever."

"Um, actually—" Twilight tried to explain.

"GASP!"

A pony startled Spike from behind. He turns to see it was just Rarity the fashionista from the Carousel Boutique.

"Are these what I think they are?" Rarity asked.

"Yes, yes, yes!" Pinkie answered. "Twilight and Chase are taking me to the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot."

"The gala?!" Rarity exclaimed. "I design ensembles for the gala every year, but I've never had the opportunity to attend. Oh, the society, the culture, the glamour! It's where I truly belong, and where I'm destined to meet him."

That last word Rarity spoke with a rather dreamy tone.

"Him!" Pinkie copied her tone, appearing puzzled. "Who?"

"Him... I would stroll through the gala, and everyone would wonder, 'Who is that mysterious mare?'. They would never guess that I was just a simple pony from little old Ponyville.”

"Why, I would cause such a sensation that I would be invited for an audience with Princess Celestia herself," Rarity continued. "And the Princess would be so taken by the style and elegance that she would introduce me to 'him', her nephew: The most handsome eligible unicorn stallion in Canterlot."

"Our eyes would meet, and our hearts would melt," Rarity said dreamily. "Our courtship would be 'magnificent'! He would ask for my hoof in marriage, and of course, I would say, 'Yes!'"

"We would have a royal wedding, befitting a princess, which is..." Rarity giggled. "...What I would become upon marrying ‘him’, the stallion of my dreams."

"Give me a break, Blueblood is not that amazing," Sunset mubmed.

"You know who she's talking about?" Twilight asked her.

"Yeah, Prince Blueblood, and believe me, Twi, that dude takes stuck up to a whole nother level to the point I can stand him when he's around," Sunset gritted her teeth.

"What did he do to you?"

"Well, I'll spare the details but he said to me 'I better than you because I'm a ruler of Equestria and I'm stooge for my niece'. But I have the last laugh when I set his royal suit on flames."

"Oh, remember that one, he went screaming like a filly," Jake grinned.

Twilight and Spike covered their mouths to hide their snickering from the backstory of her little stunt.

"Well, I'm sure he was just teasing, darling," Rarity assured.

"Yeah let's go with that..." Sunset glared at her.

"But Sunset and Twilight, I simply cannot believe you would invite Pinkie Pie so she can... party and prevent me from meeting my true love. How could you? Hmph."

Rarity turned her head with a huff. Before either Twilight or Sunset could answer, Spike noticed a white bunny come up and snatch the tickets from his claws.

"Hey!" Spike called out.

But the bunny had already dashed away, straight towards... Fluttershy. He climbs upon her head, presenting the tickets from above which made her 'GASP'.

"Angel, these are perfect," Fluttershy replied softly.

Meanwhile, Rarity and Pinkie shot dirty glares at each other. Well, mostly Rarity, as Pinkie Pie bounced about like a beach ball.

"Uh, listen you guys," Twilight said. "We haven't decided who to give the extra ticket to."

"You haven't?" Rarity and Pinkie retorted together.

"Trust me when I tell you this Rarity," Sunset warned. "You're better off marrying a Windigo than Blueblood."

Rarity gasped loudly, looking quite offended by the remark. Before she could retort, however, Fluttershy approached them slowly. She proceeds to come into view between Pinkie Pie and Rarity.

"Um, excuse me, Twilight, Sunset," Fluttershy said, gently. "I would just like to ask, I mean if it would be alright if you haven't given it to someone else..."

"You?" Rarity exclaimed, knowing what the Pegasus was asking. "You want to go to the gala?"

"Oh, no," Fluttershy replied.

That answer received a swift jab from Angel Bunny insisting that the Yellow Pegasus go on.

"I mean, yes, or, actually, kind of. You see... It's not so much the Grand Galloping Gala, as it is the wondrous private gated garden that surrounds the dance," Fluttershy explained. "The flowers are said to be the most beautiful and fragrant in all of Equestria. For the night of the gala, and that night alone, would they all be in bloom... And that's just the flora! Don't get me started on the fauna. There are loons and toucans and bitterns, oh my! Hummingbirds that can hum, and buzzards that can buzz. White-blue jays, and red jays, and green jays, pink jays, and pink flamingos!"

"Gee, Fluttershy, it sounds... beautiful..." Twilight asked, unsure of herself.

"Oh! Do you know if everything I said is there?" Fluttershy asked excitedly.

"The flora, yes. But all the fauna... Well..."

"Wait, just a minute!"

A familiar raspy voice made Twilight and Sunset look up, as Rainbow Dash stared down at them from the rooftop of a nearby house.

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight retorted as the blue Pegasus flew toward them.

"Did you follow us?" Sunset added.

"No. I mean, yes. I mean, maybe..." Rainbow stumbled. "Look, it doesn't matter. I couldn't risk a couple of goody-four-shoes like you two giving that ticket away to just anybody,"

"Wait just another minute," Applejack called out, approaching Twilight.

"Applejack," Twilight replied sternly. "Were you following us too?"

"Are you following us too?" Chase asked, heated.

"No," She replied quickly.

"Thank goodness..."

"I was followin’ this one," Applejack motioned to Rainbow Dash. "To make sure she didn't try any funny business. Still trying to take mah ticket."

"Your ticket?" Rainbow retorted.

"But Twilight and Sunset are taking me!" Pinkie shot back, and then all five points started to argue over each other.

"ENOUGH!" Sunset shouted stopping everyone.

"And then I said, "Oatmeal, are you crazy—"

"Pinkie!" Chase shouted quite angry.

Pinkie Pie suddenly stopped once she realized that the arguing had stopped.

"Oh..." Pinkie said sheepishly.

"There's no use in arguing," Sunset pointed out.

"But..."

"No buts... This is our decision to make on our own and I can't think for with all this noise," Then her and Twilight's stomachs growled. "Not to mention, hunger. Now please go!"

The five mares either walked or flew away, grumbling to themselves.

"And don't worry, we'll figure this out..." Twilight added.

But the mares had already disappeared, leaving Twilight alone with Spike somewhere to the side, out of sight, and Sunset, who merely sighed.

"... Somehow..." Twilight sighed.

"Come on," Sunset ushered. "Let's grab some lunch, my treat."

The four were at a cafe that Sunset recommended and both couldn't think about who was going to the gala with them.

"Oh Spike, Jake? What are we gonna do?" Twilight asked worried. "All five of our best friends have really good reasons to go to the gala."

"But who do we choose? Applejack, or Rainbow Dash? Pinkie Pie or Fluttershy, Rarity... Oh, who should go with us?"

Then a waiter came to their table.

"Have you made your decision?" He asked, with a French accent.

"I CAN'T DECIDE!" She bellowed.

Every pony turned and stared at the unicorn sitting straight up, her hooves in the air. Sunset face-hoofed himself, hiding from the embarrassment.

"Twilight, he just wants to take your order," Spike points out, toward the menu.

Twilight blinked a few times before recomposing herself.

"Oh," She replied, calmly. "I would love a daffodil and daisy sandwich."

"T'll take the toasted hay burger on sourdough please," Sunset requested.

"Rosemary Calzone," Jake added.

"Do you have any rubies?" Spike asked.

The only response from the Professional waiter was an indignant glare.

"No? Okay..." Spike sighed, tossing the men behind him. "... I'll have the hay fries, extra crispy."

Savior Fare was already walking away before Spike finished placing his order. As Savior Fare went back inside, the group had a brief moment to talk.

"What do you think, Spike?" Twilight asked.

"I think we have to try another restaurant," Spike answered. "I mean, I like grass just fine, but would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones?"

"Spike, only we can eat gemstones, ponies would break their teeth if they did and for Rarity it's for her dresses."

"I mean about the gala and the ticket and who I should take!" Twilight snapped.

"Oh, you're still on that?" Spike asked annoyed.

"Spike, listen," Twilight insisted.

She leans toward him on the table with her front hooves, knocking the flower vase off the table.

“How do we choose? And when I do choose, will the other four be mad at us? I mean, I could give up my ticket and give away two, but that would still leave three disappointed ponies."

Then she turned her attention to Sunset as she was keeping his eyes on the ticket with
an annoyed expression.

"Sunset what about you?"

"Does it matter?"

"What the matter? Is there something you want to tell me?"

"I've never been a big fan of the royal events, okay?"

"What?" Spike asked her.

"It just sucks all alright, I will rather be at Dount Joe's Shop than trying to make small talk with rich dudes," Sunset explained.

Then Savoir Fare arrived with their food.

"Ah, your food," He replied, setting the plates on the table.

Spike and Jake were already munching away, while Twilight and Sunset smiled at their food.

"Oh thank you," Twilight sighed. "This looks so good. I'm sure everything will be much clearer once we eat."

"Down the hatch!" Sunset nodded in agreement.

They both use their magic to lift the sandwiches to their mouths when the other ponies galloped passed them and into the indoor section of the café. The two unicorns drop their sandwiches back on their plates, turning in confusion.

"Uh ma'ams, are you going to eat your food in ze rain?"

"It's not raining..." Twilight replied.

BOOM!

A thunderclap caused the trio to look around, noticing how everywhere, minus their table, was getting a large downpour.

"What's going on?" Twilight asked.

"Okay, which weather pony goofed and brought this over here?" Sunset asked then a bright spot appeared over them.

"Hi there, best friends forever I've ever had!" Rainbow said, sweetly. "Enjoying the sunny weather?"

"Rainbow Dash, what are you doing?" Twilight asked suspiciously.

"Whaddya mean?" Rainbow replied innocently. "I just saw the smartest, most generous ponies about to get rained on, so I thought I'd kick a hole in the clouds to keep them dry so they could dine in peace, that's all."

Sunset and Twilight shifted looks from Rainbow, the surrounding rain, and their food, to each other, and at Rainbow once more.

"Rainbow, you're not trying to get extra consideration for the extra ticket by doing extra special favors, are you?" Twilight asked.

"No-no-no, of course not."

"Uh-huh," Twilight said.

"I'm not buying it," Sunset added. "We're not accepting unwanted favors."

"So, I'd appreciate it if you closed up that rain cloud right now," Twilight added.

"Ugh, fine," Rainbow said.

The cyan-blue Pegasus quickly zipped the hole. Sunset just groaned, turning to Twilight indignantly.

"That's better," Twilight sighed, pleased with herself.

Sunset, Twilight, and their sandwiches were soaked two seconds later from the oncoming downpour. Both groaned in agitation.

Just then, Rarity arrived carrying a large purple umbrella.

"Twilight! Sunset! It's raining," She said plainly.

"No?" Twilight retorted sarcastically.

“And we thought someone was dumping the world's largest bucket of water all over us," Sunset added, in the same tone.

"Come with me before you catch a cold," Rarity said.

The fashionista pulled Twilight away, as Chase watched them leave before he went after them.

As soon as they were both inside, Twilight Sparkle and Sun shook the water off their coats and mane. Once dry, they looked as sharp as ever.... Except for Rarity, who got soaked to the bone from all the shaking about and glared at the two.

"Heh-heh, oops, sorry,” Twilight said apologetically.

"Yeah..." Sunset chuckled timidly. "We probably should've just asked for a towel."

"Oh no, it's quite alright," Rarity replied. "After all, we are..."

Suddenly, Rarity was completely dry and nuzzled Twilight's side.

"... The best friends, are we not? And you know what best friends do?"

"Uh..."

Based on their expression, both Twilight and Chase were afraid to find out.

"Makeovers!" Rarity exclaimed.

Rarity shoved a dressing screen in front of her and Twilight, knocking Sunset and the dragons aside as Rarity roughly dressed up Twilight.

"Ugh, Rarity, ow!" Twilight groaned. "This isn't fixing it. I mean, thank you, but, ooh, that's too tight!"

As the screen was removed, Twilight was fitted in a glittery little dress. "There," Rarity said. "Oh, you're simply darling."

Twilight looked at the dress and smiled.

"Uh, yeah, it is kinda pretty, isn't it?" She replied. Then Twilight looked at Sunset and asked. "Do you like it, Chase?"

“Well, you do look very pretty in it, Sparkle," Sunset answered, with a sly smile.

Spike made a face, sticking his finger in his mouth then Jake nudged him for doing that. Rarity tried doing measurements on Sunset before he stopped her.

“Oh, you don’t have to do that Rarity, I have a dress. And trust me it will look fantastic” Sunset said. Rarity nodded and stopped then went to Spike.

"D-ah, ow, oh, hey, wow, watch it, whoa!" Spike yelped.

Once the screen had moved, Spike was dressed in a very traditional Renaissance-style blue suit with a blonde wig. He looked indignant and embarrassed.

"Oh, Spike." Twilight giggled.

"Okay, that's pretty neat," Jake added.

“Now, the hat.” Rarity said, placing a hat on his head with a golden feather on it.

“Ugh, I told you, I don't want any part of this girly gala gunk. See you back at the library.” Spike said before zipping off. Leaving the clothes there.

"Don't worry, by the end of this, he'll come around," Jake said.

“Oh, who needs him anyway? This is all about you,” Rarity said as she pulled a mirror over to Twilight and showed her how she looked. “and how fabulous you'll look at the Grand Galloping Gala.”

This is when Twilight realized what was going on and snapped out of checking herself out.

“Wait, the Grand—” Twilight started to say.

“What a coincidence Rarity. You just so happen to have a set right here that matches Twilight’s dress perfectly.” Sunset said.

“I see what's going on. You're just buttering me up so I give you the extra ticket. Well, it's not gonna work. You're going to have to wait for my decision just like everyone else.” Twilight said as she tossed off the saddle and trotted to the door and Sunset and Jake. “Now if you'll excuse me, I've been trying all day just to get some lunch,” Twilight said as she walked out.

“Did somepony say lunch?” Applejack said as she poked her head in and grabbed Twilight.

“Ugh. This is gonna be a long day.” Sunset said as he walked forward and saw the cart Applejack pulled her, full of Apple products.

“You gotta be kidding me,” Twilight said as she looked at that.

“I got apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisps, apple crumblers, and apple Brown Betty.” Applejack listed. “Uh, the dessert, not my auntie.” Applejack clarified.

"Got it," Sunset nodded.

“What do you say there, best friend?” Applejack asked. Bandit’s eyes went wide to angry as he scowled at Applejack.

“The tophet did you just say?” Bandit asked. Twilight’s stomach grumbled.

“Is that a yes?” Applejack asked.

“No. No. I don't know who I'm giving the ticket to, and all these favors aren't making it any easier to decide. I'm less sure now than I was this morning. Ugh!” Twilight said as she started to run off. Jake was in the cart, eating the food in the cart.

“So, is that a maybe?” Applejack asked.

“Ugh, I never thought being showered with favors would be so aggravating,” Twilight said.

“The favors aren’t aggravating, the reasons behind the favors are what’s aggravating,” Sunset implied. "Can they take a clue that sucking up to us is not help us?"

Twilight opens the door. Before her eyes, various animals dusted and cleaned the interior of the library.

"You have to be kidding me," Sunset couldn't believe it.

Fluttershy, not you too?" Twilight gasped.

"Oh, well, hello girls," Fluttershy greeted. "I hope you don't mind, but we're all doing a little spring cleaning for you."

"It's the middle of summer," Twilight told her.

"Oh, well, better late than never, right?" Fluttershy replied, flying next to them. "It was Angel's idea."

The little bunny smiled, continuing to toss a salad nearby.

"You're not doing this for the ticket, are you?" Sunset asked.

"Uh, yes," She answered awkwardly.

"No, no, no!" Twilight said firmly. "Well, this was all very nice of you and Angel, but we're not accepting any extra favors until we've made our final decision, so we're going to have to ask you to leave."

Twilight opened the door when a huge burst of confetti blasted through the door.

"SURPRISE!"

Between shouts from the ponies and the trumpets blowing outside Twilight and Sunset were both whisked away and tossed up and down by a bunch of random ponies, while Pinkie began to sing... Again.

Pinkie Pie (Sings):

Twilight and Sunset are my best friends

Whoopie, whoopie!

"Pinkie..." Sunset and Twilight said together.

Pinkie Pie (Sings):

They're the cutest, smartest, all-around best ponies, ponies!

"Pinkie..." They repeated.

Pinkie Pie (Sings):

I bet if I throw a super-duper fun party, party!

"Pinkie!" They said louder.

Pinkie Pie (Sings):

They'll give me their extra ticket to the Gala too me!

"PIILITIIITINKIIIITIIIIIIIIIIIIE!"

The two unicorns shouted so loudly, that the ponies broke away and sent them landing hard on the ground.

"Yes, Twilight? Sunset?" Pinkie asked, batting her eyes.

"At least the other ponies tried to be subtle about the ticket," Twilight said.

"Wait, what ticket?" A pony named Drizzle asked. "What Gala?"

"Oh, didn't you know?" Pinkie replied. Twilight and Sunset have an extra ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala!" Pinkie finished.

"The Grand Galloping Gala?!" The nearby ponies exclaimed.

"Oh buck," Sunset groaned.

They began to shower them with compliments and offers to get the ticket.

"What do we do now?" Twilight asked Sunset the she whispered in her ear then both of them glowed their horns and soon all four of them were gone with no trace.

"Where is she?"

"Where'd she go?"

"She's disappeared?

"Where's the handsome mare?"

Fortunately, Sunset Shimmer and Twilight Sparkle didn't get very far, as they had triggered a simple teleportation spell, which landed them right back inside the Grand Oaks Library. Both were quite frazzled from the trip and poor Spike was slightly fried.

"Warn me when you going to do that," Spike exclaimed.

"That's the trouble with magical surges," Sunset added. "You never know when they happen or what they'll do. They just trigger under moments of extreme stress."

"Never mind that quick, lock the doors!" Twilight shouted all of them had locked everything in sight and turned off all the candle lights.

"Okay, everything's thing lock up! There's no way they're getting in..."

Suddenly, a light came back on... Sunset looked up... to see her five friends with smiles on their faces and for her that was the last straw.

"That's it! I can't take it anymore! You five should be ashamed yourself," She snapped at them as her eyes went red. "We have been trying to figure out which of one of you should go with us, without disappointing the others. But all these extra favors and gifts are not helping us and adding more pressure on us!"

The five mares didn't take long to realize how upset Sunset and Twilight felt as Applejack walked up to them. She pats a forehoof on Twilight's back but still speaks to both of them.

"Twilight, Sunset, sugars," Applejack said gently. "I didn't mean to put so much pressure on the two of you, and if it helps, I don't want the ticket anymore. You can give it to someone else. I won't feel bad, I promise."

"Me too," Fluttershy added. "I just feel awful that I made you feel/ so awful."

"And me too," Pinkie Pie cut in. "It's no fun upsetting your friends."

"Twilight, Sunset," Rarity joined in. "It was unfair of me to try and force you as I did."

"Same here, not my best feature," Rainbow was the last one. "Breaking the ice, I haven't perfected my tricks to show for the Wonderbolts yet. I don't need that ticket either."

“We all got so gun-ho about going to the gala that we couldn't see how un-gun-ho we were making you," Applejack pointed out.

“We’re sorry.” They all said.

"Jake, a note please," Sunset requested him as she lifted the three tickets.

"Dear Princess Celestia, I've learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there are not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. So, though both Twilight and I appreciate the invitation, we will be returning all the tickets for the Gala."

"What!?" Applejack and the others were shocked.

"If they can't go, we won't go," Sunset said. "Jake, send the letter."

Jake released a blue flame that ate up the letter, sending it on its way.

"Now you won't get to go to the gala either," Fluttershy said sadly.

"It finds, Fluttershy, I rather be with my best friends than the Gala," Sunset said. "Besides, it's a dumb party."

"It's okay, girls," Twilight assured. "We couldn't possibly enjoy ourselves without our best friends there with us."

"Oh, god," Jake's tummy growled then burp out a letter. "Excuse me."

"A letter already," Sunset cock an eyebrow. "Sweet Celestia, dragon mail is pretty quick."

"My faithful students, Twilight and Sunset, why didn't you just say so in the first place?" Sunset read it and then came out with seven total tickets.

"Seven tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala!" Spike announced.

All the ponies in the room gasped, excitedly.

"Now we can all go," Twilight declared happily then her stomach started to growl.

"Allow us to treat you both to dinner," Rarity offered.

"What a great way to apologize," Rainbow declared.

Each pony collected their ticket, the lot of them hovering above their heads as they left the house.

"And to celebrate!" Pinkie Pie added while exiting. "Come on everyone, the cupcakes are on me!"

As the girls left out, leaving the two dragons in the library.

“How come I don't get a ticket to the gala?” Spike asked sadly.

“Don’t worry Spike. I left her a PS.” Jake said. As if on cue, Spike burped up another letter. He opened it and read.

“And two more for Spike and Jake.” He said before looking at the ticket. He giggled and ran to the door before looking at a smug Chad.

“I mean, gross, I have to go too?” Spike quickly tried to act.

“Don’t worry Spike. I won’t tell anyone.” Jake said. Spike sighed in relief. “But I will make fun of you.”

“What!? No!” Spike said.

“Too late,” Jake said with a wink as he started running to catch up.

Chapter 4-Applebuck Season

As the dawn rises over Ponyville or more to the point, in Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack and Big Mac were overlooking a massive orchard.

"Boy howdy! I got my work cut out for me. That's the biggest bump crop' o apples I ever had laid my eyes on," Applejack, seeing the trees.

"Eeypup, too big for you to handle on your own." Big Mac said to her.

"Come on, big brother! You need to rest up and get yourself better. I haven't met an apple orchard yet that I can't handle. I'll take a bite out of this job by day's end."

"And that's what I'm afraid of."

"Are you sayin' my mouth is making promises my legs can't keep?"

"Eeypup?"

"Why of all the apples... This is your sister Applejack, remember? The most loyalist and dependable pony of all ponies."

"But still only one pony, one pony plus a hundred o' apple trees just add up..."

"I don't need you fancy math to mud the issue! I said I could handle the harvest and I'm gonna prove it by doing all by myself."

20 minutes later...

"Well I better get to it," Applejack said. "These apples aren't gonna shake themselves outta the trees."

Then the ground began to rumble, an apple fell off and bonked her on the head.

"What the... Oh, buck..."

In Ponyville... Rainbow Dash was searching for the source of the rumbling. She spots the source from a distance: A herd of mooing cows... Heading straight for Ponyville!"

"STAMPEDE!" She shouted.

Ponies were panicking and running around town trying to get inside before the Stampede would hit. Except Pinkie, who was enjoying the rumbling and how her voice sounded.

“Hey! This makes my voice sound silly!” Pinkie said as her voice vibrated with the shaking ground.

“Pinkie, are you crazy?! Run!” Twilight exclaimed as she ran off.

“Everypony calm down. There’s no need to panic.” Mayor Mare said, trying to calm down the panic. Rarity ran over to the Mayor.

“But Mayor, whatever shall we do?” Rarity asked.

“Look!” Sunset pointed out.

Among the cows, Applejack and her dog, Winona, charged beside the stampeding herd.

"YEEHAW!" Applejack exclaimed.

The ponies stopped running about the moment and heard the cow pony. They give out some cheers.

"Move aside, Winona!" Applejack called out. Put' em, girl!"

Winona barked excitedly, as she ran alongside Applejack. Rarity just moaned as she and a few others watched her in action.

"This is the best rodeo show I've ever seen!" Pinkie said while eating some popcorn.

"Sure, it is," Sunset said as Twilight rolled her eyes.

Applejack continued to keep pace with the runaway cows. She gives one cow a bit a shoulder bump, trying to coarse the cow to move, but it does nothing.

"Come on little doggies! Turn!" Applejack called out then whistled to Winnoa.

"Winona, put' em up!"

The dog barked while giving a light nudge from the other side of the stampede.

"Gotcha!"

As Applejack tried to redirect the cows, Winona gave another bark to aid her. The cows were only yards away from the bridge of Ponyville when both Applejack and Winnona successfully got the cows to turn to the side. The herd rushes toward the other side of the river, away from the Ponyville Town Square.

"Attagirl! Yeehaw!"

Once the cows start to slow down, Applejack manages to get ahead of the herd then she halts them to stop.

"Hooie! Now what was that all about?"

One cow, named Daisy Jo, moos in response... before she coughs to clear her throat.

"Oh my! Begging your pardon, Applejack. But Moo-Ariella here saw one of those nasty snakes..."

The other cows made startled expressions in agreement.

"...And it gave us all the wiles, don't cha know."

"I understand," Applejack nodded. "Just next, try and steer clear of Ponyville."

"We certainly will, Applejack," Dasiy Jo answered. "So, long, Winona!"

The dog barked in reply. And as the cows made their way back towards the farm, all the ponies watching contiuned to cheer e, chanting Applejack's name.

"Yee Haw!" the cow pony did a pose.

"Yee Haw!" Pinkie added a mimic of her. "Applejack was just.... Appletastic!"

"Exactly," Mayor Mare replied. "We must do something to thank Applejack for single-hoofedly saving the town."

"I know," Pinkie said.

"3, 2, 1...." Sunset said.

"A party!"

In only a few minutes, all the ponies of Ponyville had town squares loaded with decorations, balloons, and party streamers of all kinds. It wasn't long before Twilight, Sunset, Spike, and Spike arrived, just as Rarity tied a nice red bow onto a tree.

"We all ready?" Twilight asked.

"Just one last thing," Rarity placed a gold banner above the stage. "Now we're ready."

"Is Applejack all set?"

"I haven't seen her all weak," Rainbow said, landing near the two.

"Not since the stampede," Pinkie hopped to the others.

"But she'll be here for sure. Applejack is never late."

“Maybe, I should go get her,” Sunset said.

"Oh, would you please darling?" Rarity asked sweetly.

“I will,” Sunset trotted off.

"Please do," Twilight nodded.

Before long, she trots off toward the outskirts of town to Sweet Apple Acres while Twilight Sparkle looks on.
Later that day, all the town ponies gathered around the stage, just as Twilight Sparkle made her way toward the
podium. She carries a large stage of messily stacked note cards for the occasion. Once she arrives, she uses her magic to straighten her cards, holding the first one up to recite her speech.

"Welcome, everypony!" Twilight began. "Today we are here to honor a pony who we can always count on to help in
matters great and small. A pony whose contributions to—"

All of a sudden, Rainbow Dash flies right in front of Twilight, causing her note cards to scatter about.

“Did you see Applejack's slick moves out there?" Rainbow interjected. "What an athlete! This week she's gonna help
me with my new flying trick, and I know it's gonna be so awesome!"

"Exactly," Twilight said, shoving Rainbow aside. "And..."

"This week, I get to run Sugarcube Corner for the first time," Pinkie jumped in, right in front of Twilight.

"What does that have to do with Applejack?" Twilight asked curiously.

"Oh, Applejack, one of the best bakers ever, is gonna help me," Pinkie answered. "Applejack makes everything great,
so free samples for everypony.

The other ponies cheered until Twilight shoved Pinkie off the stage.

"Oh-kay, that's great," Twilight remarked. "Now if I could just make a point without being inter—"

"Twilight?" A familiar yellow Pegasus said, appearing from the left side of the podium.

interrupted!" Twilight remarked, glaring at Fluttershy.

“Twilight, I'm so sorry," Fluttershy replied. "But I just wanted to mention that Applejack is also helping me this week
with the official bunny census, where we count up all the new baby bunnies that were born this season. She's going to
help gather them using her wonderful herding skills."

‘Twilight just rolled her eyes, her patience thinning. She gives Fluttershy one dirty glare before the Pegasus slowly
removes herself from the podium.

"Anypony else?" Twilight asked, irritated. "Anyone? No?"

No pony dared make eye contact with her until she finally settled down.

"Well then, as I was trying to say—"

Then-Mayor Mare appears with a toothy grin, a clear sign Twilight had to wrap the speech up. The timing pushed
Twilight's patience to the limit.

“URGH! Never mind!" Twilight barked.

Twilight Sparkle stomped away angrily, letting her cards scatter all over the podium. Mayor Mare just smiled as she
approached the podium.

"Ah-ahem. And so, with no further ado," Mayor Mare continued. "It is my pleasure to give the prize, Pony of Ponyville Award, to our beloved guest of honor, a pony of the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville's most capable and dependable friend: Applejack!"

Soon, there was nothing but silence apart from Mayor Mare clearing her throat. She stood there hoping for something
to happen or at least some pony to speak up. But... Nothing.

"Awkward..." Spike whispered, as the rest of their friends agreed.

"I'm here... I'm here..."

All of Ponyville turned after hearing the familiar country voice, followed by a yawn and a sigh. There was Applejack,
carrying some baskets overloaded with apples, some of them falling to the ground as she made her way through the
crowds. Her eyes were so drowsy, there were bags under them. From behind, Sunset Shimmer quietly approached his friends without saying a word as she was very angry.

"Sorry I'm late," Applejack apologized tiredly. "Whoa—I was just—whoa. Did I get your tail? Miss Mayor. Thank you
kindly for this here... award thingy..."

Yawning again, Applejack peers at her face in the reflection against the trophy.

"... It's so bright and shiny and, heh, heh-heh, I sure do look funny, heh. Ooo-000!"

Applejack began leaning back and forth at her reflection with a woozy smirk on her face. Pinkie Pie even joined her.

"Woo-000000-000!" They chanted together.

"Okay," Twilight said nervously, reaching the stage. "Well, thank you Applejack for saving us from that scary stampede,
and always being there for everypony.”

"Yeah, I like helping the ponyfolks and... *yawn*... and stuff..."

Applejack suddenly dozed off while standing... For two seconds before shooting up with a snort and shook her head.

"Oh, uh, yeah. Uh, thanks!"

Applejack grabbed the handle of the trophy by the mouth, dragging It offstage, going down the exact path she came
from but walking backwards. The other ponies stayed quiet, as Applejack took her leave.

"Was it just me?" Twilight asked, out of the blue. "Or did Applejack seem a little—"

"Tired?" Rainbow proposed.

"Messy?" Rarity added as her friends gave her funny looks.

"She seemed fine to me," Pinkie said. "Woo! Woo! Wo—

Sunset did a magic blast at Pinkie which she ducked.

“Pinkie would kill you to take a chill pill,” Sunset sternly to her making Pinkie giggle a bit.

“Uh, Sunset, is everything okay, you seem a little ticked?” Twilight asked her.

"Well, I found Applejack working in the orchards," Sunset explained. "She seemed pretty worn out, so much I had to
tell her 'Twice’ about the party to get her to stop working. So, she followed me, though I saw she was walking very
slowly. I tried to offer some help, being a good friend and all... Then she yelled at my face.”

"What?!" Twilight retorted in surprise.

"That's what I was thinking! She just exploded at me, telling me to leave her alone and insisted she'd get there herself.

“I stuck around, only for her to yell at me again, telling me to leave! So, I figured I'd just linger back and give her some
breathing room. And I thought I had anger issues.”

It wasn’t too long as both unicorns headed towards Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack was
busily working hard trying to collect as many apples as she could. As tired and exhausted as she was, she breathed
rather heavily while bucking a couple more apple trees.

"Phew!" She muttered.

At times, Applejack nearly fell asleep but caught herself and got back to work. She tried bucking another tree, but it
was so far away her rear legs hit air.

"O-oah!"

Applejack stumbled before trying to recompose herself. Twilight and Chase were not too far away when they saw her
working.

"What in Equestria is that pony doing?" Twilight asked herself.

“Apple harvesting, duh,” Sunset replied.

“I meant that!" Twilight retorted.

Sure enough Applejack mumbled to herself, as she kicked an apple basket over.

"Whoops," Applejack remarked, cleaning the mess.

"Point made," Sunset nodded. "Come on, then."

Sunset and Twilight made their way towards their country-pony friend.

"Hey Applejack!" Twilight called out.

But by then, Applejack had fallen asleep while standing up... again.

"Applejack!" Sunset called out, a tad louder.

The orange pony continued to snore.

"Applejack!" Twilight called out.

Sunset taps Twilight on the shoulder and silently gestures a count. At three hoof waves, they shout together:
"APPLEJACK!"

The orange pony awoke with a start, noticing the two friends standing nearby.

"Oh, howdy, Twilight," She greeted, trying to sound normal. "Howdy, Sunset.”

“What is all this?" Twilight asked curiously.

As they talk, Applejack continues her way and went to buck another tree.

"It's Applebuck season," Applejack replied, nearly losing her balance. "Whoa!"

‘Twilight and Sunset used their horns to teleport towards her. By now, they could handle short distances without getting
too dizzy.

“Applewhat season?" Twilight asked.

"Neh!" Applejack answered, not bothering to correct her. "It's what the Apple family calls harvestin' time. We gather all
the apples from the trees so we can sell 'em."

Applejack ventured forward, as Sunset and Twilight teleported back in front of her once more.

"But why are you doing it all alone?" Twilight asked worriedly.

“Cause Big MacIntosh hurt himself," Applejack replied.

"How did he?" Sunset began to ask.

"Ya don't wanna know," Applejack answered bluntly.

"What about all those relatives we've met when we first came to Ponyville?" Twilight wondered.

"They actually live all over Equestria and are busy harvestin' their own orchards. So, uh, I'm on my own. Which means, I should really get back to work."

But Twilight and Sunset refused to move, as if they were still trying to process the situation.

"Ahem!" Applejack cleared her throat. "Hint, hint? Get back to work?"

Sunset and Twilight just glared.

"Fine," They answered, with a snooty demeanor.

The two unicorns move out of the way to let her pass. But Applejack just stood still, wobbling a bit from side to side.

"Could you step aside, please?" She asked woozily.

"We just did,” Twilight answered.

Applejack looked at Twilight, though her vision looked rather fuzzy as Twilight continued to speak.

“Applejack, you don't look so good."

Applejack just shook her head again to refocus.

“Eh, don't any of you six worry none," Applejack retorted. "I'm just fine and dandy. Whoa!"

Applejack nearly lost her balance again, when Twilight stepped in front of her with Sunset doing the same thing.

"Do you... want some help?" Twilight asked.

"Help?" Applejack retorted. "No way, no how!"

“But there's no way you can do it all on your own," Twilight protested.

"I agree with Twilight on this one," Sunset nodded.

"Is that a challenge?" Applejack demanded, getting in their faces.

Suffice to say, Twilight Sparkle felt a little nervous.

“Uhm... no," Twilight said timidly.

“Well, I'm gonna prove to you both that I can do it!" Applejack snapped. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got apples to
buck."

Sunset and Twilight just watched her walk away in a huff.

The next day, Rainbow Dash stood upon a support post of a nearby fence waiting for Applejack to arrive. She tapped
one of her front hooves impatiently when her friend finally arrived.

"There you are!" Rainbow exclaimed impatiently.

"I'm a mite sorry, Rainbow," Applejack yawned. "I was busy applebuckin' and I guess ah, I closed my eyes for a second
and, when I woke up, I was late. Now, what's this new trick a’ yours?”

“See this contraption?" Rainbow pointed out.

Just a few yards away, a tall platform with a teeter-totter like mechanism nearby stood before them.

"Uh... Yeah?" Applejack answered.

Rainbow began to explain the plan, mentally drawing she wanted Applejack to do.

“Well, I'm gonna stand on one end, then you're gonna jump down from that platform, launching me into the air faster
than I can take off on my own. Once I'm in the air, I'm gonna do some amazing flips and spins that are sure to impress
the Wonderbolts.”

"Isn't that a mite dangerous?" Applejack asked, not fully comprehending the plan.

"Pfft, heh, not for a pony who can fly," Rainbow said, confidently.

Rainbow zooms about the sky, while Applejack just smiled.

"Well, all right-y then," Applejack nodded.

A while later, Applejack makes her way to the top of the platform. As she gazed down from the platform, she started feeling a bit nervous. Whether it was her lack of sleep or a sudden case of vertigo, Applejack had trouble focusing onher landing point. Rainbow just sat quietly on her end of the teeter-totter.

"Oh my...

"Ready?" Rainbow called out. "One... two... THREE!"

Applejack made her jump... But landed beside the landing point with a 'PLOP!'.

“Umm... maybe I wasn't clear," Rainbow said slowly. "You're supposed to land on the other end."

At that same time, Sunset was taking a stroll to clear her mind It was then he noticed Rainbow and Applejack in the distance. Rather than draw attention to himself, he decided to watch how things
turned out from a few yards away. Luckily, neither pony noticed his presence.

"Got it," Applejack said, trying again.

Each time, Applejack missed the platform. First landing on her stomach, then her flank, and even on her head. And
each time, Chase just looked unamused watching her miss. Poor Rainbow was losing her patience.

“Applejack, what the hay is going on?" Rainbow demanded. "I mean, I thought I was working with Ponyville's best
athlete!"

Applejack shook her head, trying to recompose herself. Sunset was just shaking his head indignantly while she also
groaned in annoyance in the distance before walking away and pretended she didn't see anything.

"You are," Applejack replied. "I'm okay. Really. I-I have an idea. Watch this."

Applejack groaned as she pulled the other side of the teeter-totter and sat squarely on it.

“Ta dal"

Rainbow just glared, clearly unamused.

“Oh... Maybe not," Applejack said sheepishly. "Okay, one more try. I'm sure to get it this time."

Applejack crawled off, causing Rainbow's end to slap back down to the ground.

"Ugh!" Rainbow groaned, slightly dazed.

Applejack climbed back to the top of the platform, struggling to vision her target.

Just then, Applejack took off for a belly flop and only then did Rainbow realized what she was gonna do.
“Wait...!"

Too late. Applejack stuck her landing perfectly, sending Rainbow Dash into the air at high speed.
“APPPLEJAAAAAACK...!"

Rainbow Dash screamed from the top of her lungs as she went airborne and out of sight.
"You're welcome!" Applejack said.

Feeling she did her job; Applejack proceeds to head back to the orchard.

‘A few seconds later, while Twilight was enjoying a book from her bedroom balcony and Sunset just arrived a few
minutes ago, they heard a scream and saw Rainbow Dash hurling toward the front railing.

"Can we help you?" Twilight asked plainly.

"I think somepony else needs your help," Rainbow replied wearily.

"Applejack?" Twilight replied.

"Yep," Rainbow said, lowering her head.

By now, Applejack was back on the farm resuming her work. The fatigue continued to take its toll on her. She bent
down to pick up some apples, only to hit a low branch underneath her head.

"Ow!" She exclaimed.

Applejack rubs the back of her head when Twilight just arrived.

"Applejack, can we talk?" She asked

Apparently, the impact did a number on Applejack's hearing. For she was having a difficult time comprehending what
Twilight was saying.

"Applejack, can we talk?" Twilight repeated.
But all Applejack could see was Twilight moving her lips and barely hearing what was being said.

"Can bees squawk?" Applejack said loudly. "I don't think so."

"No. Can we talk?" Twilight said firmly.

"Twenty stalks? Applejack replied in the same tone. "Bean or celery?"

"No! I need to talk to you!" Twilight snapped, raising her voice.

"You need to talk to the zoo?" Applejack said loudly, more confused than ever. "Well, who's stoppin’ you?"

"I need to talk to you!" Twilight yelled.

"Oh! Well, why didn't you say?" Applejack said, denying her hearing problems. "What you wanna talk about?"

"Rainbow Dash dropped in to see me today."

"That's quite neighborly of her."

"Yes, except that she crashed onto my balcony after you launched them into the air!" Twilight said indignantly.

Applejack just blinked before turning her head in shame.

"Oh, yeah," Applejack said, in her normal voice. "I wasn't feeling quite like myself this morning."

"Because you're working too hard and you need help!" Twilight snapped, approaching her.

But Applejack had been dozing off until her ears shot up.

"What? Kelp? I don't need kelp," Applejack retorted. "I don't even like seaweed!"

"HELP!" Twilight shouted. "You need HELP!"

“Nothin’ doin', Twilight," Applejack shot back. "I'm gonna prove to you, t'everypony, that I can do this on my own!"
Applejack turned to leave, only to collide forehead first into that same low branch.

"Ow!" She exclaimed, looking dazed. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've gotta help Pinkie Pie.”

"Ugh!" was all Twilight could say, as Applejack wobbled away. But seeing as she couldn't get through to her, Twilight
decided to head back to the library.

A short time later, Saffron Cake, the wife of Carrot Cake and co-proprietor of the sweetest and most delicious bakery in
Ponyville, Sugarcube Corner, was double-checking things with their assistant/apprentice, Pinkie Pie.

“Now Pinkie Pie," Mrs. Cake spoke. "Are you sure you're up for baking the muffins and running the store this
afternoon?"

It wasn't that they didn't trust Pinkie Pie, but the pink pony's randomness often times made ponies question if she
could handle serious responsibility. Pinkie didn't seem to mind these opinions, as she was ready to prove herself.

“Yes siree bob, Mrs. Cake," Pinkie answered. "Plus, I have Ponyville's prized pony to help me out. Why she's the best
baker ever. Right, Applejack?"

Applejack just gave a rough shake of her head since she was trying not to doze off. Plus, instead of not hearing ponies,
everything Applejack was hearing felt as if she were underwater or moving in slow motion.

"No?" Mr. Cake asked puzzled. "You're not the best baker ever?"

"WHAT?" Applejack exclaimed, waking up. "Oh no! I mean, don't you fret. I can bake anything from fritters to pies in
the blink of an eye."

Mrs. Cake still didn't feel sure about this, but she and Mr. Cake really needed to leave for an errand outside the shop
and these two ponies were the only help they got.

"All right," Mrs. Cake sighed. "Well, see you later, girls!"

Mrs. Cake then made her way out of the shop once all was settled. Applejack still shook her head trying to stay away
when Pinkie grabbed for her.

"Stop with the shakin’," Pinkie said. "It's time to get bakin'!"

Soon, Pinkie Pie had the recipe book open and Applejack stood across the table with the mixing bowl before her.
"All right-y," Pinkie said. "I'll get the sugar and the eggs. Can you get me some chocolate chips?"

Poor Applejack was still zoning out, and still having hearing trouble as much as she tried to deny it.

“Eh, uh, whu, what was that?" Applejack asked.

"Chocolate chips," Pinkie repeated.

"Chips... got it!" Applejack replied, grabbing a bag off the shelf. "Tater chips, a little salty and dry, okie-dokie. What
next?"

"Baking soda," Pinkie said next.

"Soda," Applejack repeated, grabbing a bottle from the fridge. "Perfect. That'll get the tater chips nice and wet. Now
what?"

“A cup of flour."

"A cup 0! sour? Well, lemons are sure sour. One cup o sour, comin' up. Anything else, Pinkie?"

"One last thing. Wheat germ.”

"Wheat worms?" Applejack repeated, making a face. "Oh, that must be fancy talk for earthworms."

Applejack went outside and dig up some earthworms to dump in the bowl with all the other ingredients. Pinkie by this
time just dumped the sugar and eggs without looking at the bowl.

"Now that’s gonna be delicious," Pinkie said excitedly.

"If you say so," Applejack said.

Either Applejack trusted Pinkie's judgment or Pinkie put too much trust in Applejack. In any case, had any pony
actually saw what's inside the bowl, they'd be noticing a different story.

Regardless of the mixture, once the muffins were cooked, they were placed on a tray before a group of ponies waiting
excitedly to try a free sample.

"Free muffin sample spectacular!" Pinkie shouted excitedly.

“Mmm, muffins!" The ponies said excitedly.

One by one, pony after pony grabbed a muffin to eat.

"Yeah! Muffin Spectacles!" Applejack added. "Get 'em while their hot."

Whether Applejack's lack of sleep and hearing was to blame, or the fact Pinkie didn't bother to double check the batter
was the cause, no one knows but the consequences would be disastrous. One pony obliviously walked into the scene; Sunset was strolling through town just passing through when a whiff of the muffins brushed along her muzzle.

"Hey, what's that smell?" She asked.

Then Pinkie zipped right beside her with two muffins.

“HIYA, Sunset!" Pinkie greeted cheerfully. "Here, have a muffin!"

"Oh, uh. Thanks, Pinkie. But I'm not hungry right now,” Sunset looked repulsed from the muffins creepy look.

“Aren't they delicious?" Pinkie asked, biting the other muffin. "Just baked them fresh out of the oven. Applejack was
more than nice enough to help me out, even though she's been acting funny.” She walked away.

"Oh yeah, Applejack is really... Applejack?" Sunset's eyes widened the moment that name came up. Slowly, she sees a worm sticking out of one of the muffins. “Oh, buck...”

It wasn't long before Sunset, Twilight, and Spike arrived at what appeared to be a temporary hospital.

"We came as soon as we heard," Twilight said.

"Oh, thank you, Twilight and Sunset." A white pony named Nurse Redheart said. "We need all the help we can get."

Twilight Sparkle gasped as the sight of dozens of ponies, looking very sick and moaning, caught her attention. Everypony's faces were all green, even Pinkie Pie's. Spike took a muffin and began to sniff it out.

“What happened?" Twilight asked.

"It's a long story, I'm hoping it's not contagious," Sunset answered worriedly.

"It was a mishap with some baked goods." Nurse Redheart said.

"Want one?" Spike asked as he ate one.

“Okay, I’m going to have chat with her,” Sunset said.

Speaking of which, Applejack was already back at the farm. She was so exhausted to even get all the apples into the
baskets and was using a single cart to carry them all. She continues to grunt and snore as she tried to keep herself
from falling asleep. Then she reached for a larger basket to dump her apples into it, only to end up tilting the kart too
far back and ended up stuck in the harness... Upside down... And now asleep. That was when Sunset arrived.

“Applejack, we need to talk," Sunset said.

“What? Huh?"

Applejack was startled when she noticed the pair, all while she was still upside down.

“Oh, it's you Sunset hi, Ray." Applejack yawned. I know what you two are gonna say, but the answer is still no."

"Not to upset your apple cart," Sunset said. "But you need help."

"Hardy har!" Applejack groaned. "And no, I don't."

“Here, let me help," Sunset offered.

"Help? No thanks," Applejack rebutted.

With a groan, Applejack tried to get herself and the cart upright.

“A little more... Little... There..."

Sunset just groaned, even though Applejack did succeed in getting herself upright.

"I’ll prove that this here apple can handle these apples. Come on... apples... fall off!"

Applejack grunted and bucked, she used one and eventually both hind legs trying to buck the apples off the tree.

"AJ, you're bucking a dead... tree," Sunset pointed out.

Applejack turned and found that not only was the tree fruitless, but only a few leaves had fallen off.
"I knew that," Applejack said plainly.

As the cowgirl walked away, Sunset followed close behind with Blaze.

"Actually, Applejack, I had something else to talk to you about," Sunset spoke. “Twilight and I just came back from
Urgent Care—"

"You know, I'm a little busy to get lectured right now!" Applejack said.

By now, the poor girl was losing her patience and was unwilling to admit she messed up... yet again.

"Too busy to even know that ponies are lying in bed and puking bad cupcakes in buckets?!" Sunset asked, angrily. “Let us help-"

“Urgh! No, no, NO!" Applejack retorted angrily. "How many times do I gotta say it? I don't need no help from nopony!"

“Okay, you want to prove no pony need help! Then I prove it!” Sunset told her.

"Is that a challenge?!" Applejack demanded getting into her face.

"Yes!" Sunset said, roughly pushing her back. "This afternoon you and I, up that hill for a little mortal combat match!"
He pointed at a hill with a few apple trees with apples on them.

"Fine!" Angrily, Applejack stomped away leaving her.

“Buck! She’s stubborn than a bull charging at a red blanket!” Sunset shouted, which ironcally across from her was a bull with red scarf. “I’m so sorry.”

“None taken.”

Later, Applejack was with Fluttershy in an area just outside Ponyville. This particular spot was loaded to the brim with
bunnies of all shapes, colors, and sizes.

Fluttershy said happily. "Thank you so much for offering your herding skills for the annual rabbit roundup.”

"Ugh!" Applejack groaned, irritated. "Why are we doin’ this?"

"Well, lots of new baby bunnies have been born," Fluttershy explained. "So it's my job to get a count of all the new
families."

"Fine!" Applejack snapped. "Can we just get on with it?"

"Certainly," Fluttershy replied, oblivious to Applejack's sour mood. "But remember, these are bunnies we're dealing
with, not cows. They're a timid bunch and need to be treated gently.”

"I do NOT need any direction on corallin' critters," Applejack snapped. "Right, Winona?”
Her faithful dog barked excitedly.

"Okay, little bunnies!" Fluttershy called out. "I need you to all gather here in the middle."

All of a sudden, Applejack charged forward and began rounding them up her own way, completely ignoring Fluttershy's
advice.

"That's right! Let's go, bunnies. In the center. Hop to it."

Obviously, Applejack's way wasn't very effective. In fact, some of the bunnies ran away from her.

"Swell. Just swell. Put em up, Winona!"

Winona barked on command, as they chased the bunnies about.

"Applejack! Winona! Stop!" Fluttershy cried out. "You're scaring them!"

"We know what we're doin’," Applejack retorted. "Get along, little bunnies."

After some effort, Applejack and Winona were able to successfully gather the bunnies into the middle area that
Fluttershy wanted. Unfortunately, the poor bunnies were trembling and terrified. A worried Fluttershy knew what would
happen next.

"Oh no," Fluttershy said softly.

And it wasn't long before the bunnies were overwhelmed, as they charged between Applejack and Winona towards
Ponyville.

Once again, another earthquake-like rumble was heard and felt by the man ponies in town. Rainbow Dash took to the
air and began surveying the land. She soon saw the smoke cloud approaching.

"STAMPEDE!" She called out.

Unlike last time, while all the ponies locked their doors and shut the windows, there was no stopping the bunnies from
charging over the bridge and into the town.

All the other ponies were screaming, desperately seeking some place to hide. One pony, Lily Valley by name, saw the
bunnies hopping madly toward her. She was so frightened, the poor mare passed out on the street. And yet, all the
bunnies did was run around her and kept going.

A couple minutes later, Sunset was enjoying a nice little walk. After the heated confrontation with Applejack, to clear her mind humming a merry tune as they reached the town square. But all at once, she gasped after finding Lily Valley, Rose, and Daisy laying on the ground, looking traumatized.

"The horror, the horror," Rose said, dramatically.

"It was awful," Lily Valley added.

"A disaster," Daisy cried. "A horrible, horrible disaster."

Twilight Sparkle had a blank look on her face, as Chase examined the fallen ponies.

"I don't get it," Sunset said.

“Our gardens, destroyed,” Lily Valley pointed out.

“Every last flower, devoured," Rose added, showing her ruined garden.

"By... by... THEM!" Daisy finished.

Sunset turned to Daisy pointed hoof and sure enough discovered a large collection of bunnies literally
nibbling and chewing everything in sight.

"Oh my. Oh... Please stop, little bunnies," Fluttershy pleaded. "Oh no! Please, let's go home! Oh my goodness!"

The two unicorns can only watch as Fluttershy was having a difficult time. Her pleas falling on dear ears, Jong ears that
is. The moment Sunset fully saw the extent of the damage she could feel her blood boil as he had a pretty good idea of what happened as this had Applejack’s name all over it as her eyes glowed red again.

“At this point, her stubbornness is gonna bring Ponyville to the ground. Something must be done, but what?” She thought then had an idea. “And I just got one.”

Sunset headed back to Sweet Apples Acres, and not to her surprise Applejack returned to work. But now, she was so worn out she couldn't even buck the tree at all.

"Must... keep... buckin’..." Applejack panted heavily. "Just... a few... more. Must finish harvestin’.”

Sunset approached Applejack and this time she was determined to stand their ground.

“All right Applejack," Sunset spoke sternly. "Your applebucking hasn't just caused you problems, it's over-propelled Pegasus... Practically poisoned plenty of ponies... And terrorized bushels of brand-new bouncing baby bunnies. I don't care what you say," Shen continued. "You... Need... Help."

“Ha! No, I don't!" Applejack grunted.

By the time Sunset finished their statement, Applejack had just finished collecting the apples from the tree
she tried to buck.

"Look, I did it. I harvested the entire Sweet Apple Acres without your help. How d'ya like them apples? And Sunset, are you ready to do our hoof-to-hoof competition?"

“What about the other side?” She asked her.

“Wha-”

Then Big Mac showed up

"Um, how do you like them apples?" He told his sister.

Big Mac tilts his head in the other direction, Applejack turns, and her eyes went wide with a loud gasp. Apparently, she had only done half the field, possibly two-thirds, but either way she still had work to be done.

“Where'd all the apple...?"Applejack mumbled for a few seconds, as her eyes crossed before fainting. Fortunately, she
wasn't out for long and as she opened her eyes, Sunset stood before her.

“Applejack," Sunset spoke. “Applejack."

“Huh?" Applejack mumbled.

“Oh good, you’re okay,” Sunset said. “Now Applejack, I completely respect the Apple family ways. But there’s no shame for asking help from others. And I’m not taking no for an answer.”

“Okay, Sunset, I could really use your help,” Applejack admitted.

“That was easy. "Come on, let's get you back on your hooves."

Applejack allowed Sunset to help her sit up, but her exhaustion made her so woozy, and Sunset had to help her keep balance. Sunset used his magic to place her on his back before beginning his approach to the house.

"A nice nap will do you some good," Sunset said. "We can handle the rest of the apples... Um, Applejack?"

She turned his head to find that not only Applejack conceded but was already fast asleep on her back. She took the farm back to the house where she laid her on the couch to nap. She takes a large, quilted sheet and folds it over the cowgirl.

"Sleep well, Applejack. You earn it,” Sunset did a smile then look at the orchard. “Well, looks like I’m gonna need help from the others too."

During all this time, Sunset had written a letter shortly before she and the others started applebucking.

"Dear Princess Celestia," Sunset recited. "My friend Applejack is the best friend a pony could ever have, and she's always there to help any pony. The only trouble is, when she needs help, she finds it hard to accept it, so while friendship is about giving of ourselves to friends, it's also accepting what our friends have to offer."

"Your faithful students, Twilight Sparkle and Sunset Shimmer.”

Just as they collected a large number of apples, Applejack returned fully rejuvenated and better than ever. She pushes a metal serving cart with drinks that had straws and then placed the drinks onto a wooden table.

“How about y'all take a little break?" Applejack proposed. "I got some fine apple juice waitin’ for ya!"

The others gathered around her, to enjoy their drinks. As they all settled down, Applejack released a sigh.

"Girls," Applejack said slowly. "I can't thank you enough for this help. I was acting a bit stubborn..."

"A bit?" Twilight replied, with smirks.

“Okay," Applejack corrected. "A mite stubborn, and I'm awful sorry. Now, I know the town gave me the Prized Pony award, but the real award is having you seven as my friends."

Every pony agreed to that statement as they took a quick drink.

"Phew!" Rainbow sighed. "That applebucking sure made me hungry."

Pinkie popped up beside her. "Well come on, girls! Let's get back to work!"

Then all headed back to work.

Chapter 5-Boast Busters

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Prolouge-When Twilight met Sunset

I first met Princess Celestia when my parents were signing me up to be a student at the School of Gifted Unicorns. She saw how skilled at magic I was, and she saw a lot of potential in me. I studied under the regular program at the school for a few months, and everypony was impressed with how well I performed. Eventually, she did take me under her wing and made me her student.

You wouldn't believe how ecstatic I was. Me, Sunset Shimmer, receiving private lessons from Princess Celestia! And I get to live in the castle with her! My parents were so proud of me! I still attended regular classes for stuff the Princess couldn't teach me. My life was fantastic...

But at the same time, it began falling apart... and I completely failed to realize it.

I let my status as Princess Celestia's get to my head, and I just became an arrogant snob, bragging about how much better I was, and picking on those that I felt were way below me. I even sent Trixie Lulamoon the wrong way on her first day when she asked me where her classroom was. The other students complained to the faculty about how much of a bigot I was becoming, and Princess Celestia eventually caught wind of it. Needless to say, she wasn't impressed. She gave me a good long lecture about humility, saying that even though I was at the top of the class, I shouldn't consider myself superior to other ponies. When she finished, she also gave me a suggestion... to make some friends

But I refused to listen to her.

"Pfft! Who needs friends when you're at the top?" I thought to myself.

Turns out, everypony needs friends. But I was too stubborn to admit it.

Many years went by, and the Princess's frequent talks about humility and relationships were refusing to sink in. I wasn't getting along with other students, only driving them away with my elitist attitude.

Then came... the mirror.

After hearing about how rudely I turned down a fellow student's invitation to hang out, she began lecturing me again about humility. During that, she brought me to an old chamber that contained a giant mirror. She asked me to look into it and tell her what I saw.

I told her I saw myself as an all-powerful alicorn princess, a ruler of Equestria.

However, something in the mirror caught my eye. But I didn't know what it was, and Princess Celestia escorted me out of the chamber before I could get a good look. I'm not entirely sure, but that thing I saw for a split second... it looked a lot like me, but... different somehow.

During the next few weeks, the mirror was the only thing I could think about. I kept barraging the Princess with questions about it, and she refused to give me an answer, telling me I wasn't ready. It stayed like that for weeks: both Princess Celestia and I were losing our patience, tensions were building up, and the two of us slowly drifting apart...

...until it all came crashing down one evening.

I snuck into the dark magic section of the library, trying to dig up some dirt on the mirror. After some searching, I found out that the Crystal Mirror was a portal leading to another world, a portal that opens up every thirty moons.

When I turned the page, I saw something else that Princess Celestia didn't tell me about...

She had the power to turn me into an alicorn princess.

My mind filled with rage at that moment. Princess Celestia knew I had the potential to be a great ruler, and she was holding me back! She was worried that I could surpass her, so she was hiding this from me and lying through her teeth! I just couldn't believe it!

Just then, Princess Celestia arrived in the library, two Royal Guards escorting her.

I still remember it like it was yesterday... we both had an argument about me becoming a princess but Celestia stood her ground and told me no and that it was final so I stormed out in anger.

I don't know how But the Princess saw something that I was completely blind to: I wasn't ready. I didn't deserve to be a princess, and by lashing out at her like a spoiled brat that night, I had made it clear.

But at the time, all I felt was pure hatred towards her for denying me something that I felt I deserved.

That was when Celestia showed me the mirror and told me to look at it.

I looked at it, but what I saw was not me inside was a demon was bat wings and have star-shaped crown but above the demon managed to burn everything in sight and that was cackling.

I asked her what was and she told me that was me, who does anything for power even restoring to dark magic. I was in tears that one day that would end up being me, and with that I apologized to her for lashing at her, Celestia would accept it on one condition, the terms were she had another student who good as me, her name was Twilight Sparkle and that she would be her number two meaning she would have lessons with me.

I was somewhat ticked off at first about it, but Twilight was pretty good.

Her magic wasn't as good as mine but she was able to pop a dragon from its egg like it was nothing. When I did it I couldn't do magic for days.

I was an idiot. I threw two years of my life away, all over a stupid dream.

I was met with nightmares and visions that drove me to insanity.

But in the end, someone offered her friendship and knew there was a second chance for me.

Since then we became best of friends trying our best for greatness.