My Little Pony Adventures Season 4

Chapters

Sister, Sister
It's a wonderbolt life
Bringing the Thunder
Meeting the family
A heart in a hoof
Cheesy Parents
A Dragon's broken heart
Sun Rock
The Golden Apples
Get Cozy

Sister, Sister

Author's Note

Hi guys thanks some much to tuning in on this fan fic and hopefully you'll enjoy what comes next.

Sister, Sister

We open with the busy streets of Tambelon where everpony is getting ready for a special event. We then view the farm grounds of Tampelon Castle as an obstacle course is being set up, along with some fun games and food. A large banner is raised up high which readsThe Sisterhooves Social.

"Welcome the the Sisterhooves Social!" Flash Sentry yelled into a megaphone.

Everypony around him cheered. Flash Sentry stood atop of a large stage surrounded by excited ponies. He then passed the megaphone to King Nightlight and Queen Velvet, who had Twilight and Spike by their side.

"Today we celebrate the togetherness of a sisterly bond between the older and the younger!" Queen Velvet said

"That's right everypony!" King Nightlight said "And I hope you're all ready for this year's Social!"

As he said this we see the Cutie Mark Crusaders with their respective big sisters; Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. All of them were thrilled about the fun that they were going to have.

Everypony was indeed excited for this event...Well almost everypony. We then see Thunderlane along with the Ponyville boys; Button Mash, Tender Taps, Rumble, and First Base.

"Yet another lame "Sisterhooves Social," said A disappointed Rumble groan, "Every year we get to sit back and watch the girls having all the fun."

"Come now Brother it's just how it is," Thunderlane replied

They were then joined by Flash, Soarin, Cheese Sandwich, Troubleshoes, Trenderhoof, Big Mac, and Spike.

"How did this holiday even start?" Asked Trenderhoof

"Well it all started right after Celestia saved Luna from being Nightmare Moon," Cheese said quickly, "and their bond became stronger than ever...So strong that they decided to make an entire day out of it, along with Nightmare Night!"

All the Stallions and colts looked at Cheese in confusion.

"What? A pony born of the streets can't be a history buff?" Cheese stated shrugging

"Well, thanks for the history lesson Cheese," Soarin states a little annoyed, "But seriously no love for the brothers?"

"Umm...Soarin your an only child?" Flash reminded.

"Well," But yeah no brotherly love?"

"Eeeyup." Big Mac agreed

"I'm not to happy about it either," said Spike with a huff, "and neither was Shining Armor when he was growing up here in the kingdom."

The Stallions and Colts all nodded their heads agreeing the unfairness of the Sisterhooves Social. But as they were they saw the mane six and the CMC approaching them.

"Hi boys ready to cheer us on in the Social?" Rainbow Dash said while buffing out her chest with Scootaloo was doing the same.

"And hiw are you two even related?" Sorain asked

"Yeah she our sister." Said Frist Base "Not yours."

"Yeah but we have a sister like bond." Said Scootaloo

"What are Chop hey?" Tender Tapes whispered to his brother.

"Well glad you're going to Scoots." Said Flash

The Colts storm away clarily upset.

"What's with them?" Twilight asked

"Umm...So some of the guys, not myself personally just feel a little left out of the social." Said Flash sheepishly.

"Yeah I'm not to found of it either." Said Twilight. "Having grown up with Brothers, Although I did try to put Spike in a dress on year."

"Don't remind me..." Said Spike growling.

"It would be nice if some of the boys could be in on the fun." Said Flash

Suddenly Twilight Beam with a brilliant idea.

Later on The Crusaders and their sisters were lined up for the big even.

"This going fun!" Applebloom

"Shimmer down Sugar cube it's not about how you win or lose its about having fun." Said Applejack

"Yeah the fun of winning." Said Rainbow Dash

"Like we're going to do!" cheered Scootaloo.

"Well may the best Sisters win." Said Applejack staring Rainbow Dash down.

"We intend to." Rainbow dash staring back.

"Ah such drama queens." Said Rarity

Sweetie Belle stared at her sister scepily.

"Relatively speaking, But you don't being captive." Said Rarity

"Well look who it is." Fimarlly annoying voice.

Rarity turn to see none other then her arch rival Suri Polomare next to her little sister Diamond Tiara.

"Suri..." Rarity said intensity

"So I heard you competing again Rarity, Let's hope you don't trip up on your own two hooves." Suri said whipping her on her rivals face.

Diamond Tiara stuck out her tough fallowing after her sister.

"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity said as she pulled her sisters to her face. "We have to win!"

"Here we go again." Sweetie Belle rolling her eyes.

"Hey fillies how's it hanging?" a voice asked

The fillies turn and saw Soarin, Flash, Cheese, Thunderlane, and the Ponyville boys standing next to them.

"Um fellas," chuckled Rainbow Dash, "You know this area is for competitors only right?"

"That's what we came to tell you," said Soarin cockily, "We are competing!"

"What!?" exclaimed the CMC's and their sisters all at once.

"That's right" said Flash, "I'm competing with First Base, Thunderlane is With Rumble obviously, and Soarin is with Button Mash, and Cheese has been nice enough to compete with Tender Taps.

To two orange earth ponies could be seen tap dancing together.

"B-but ya'll compete," exclaimed Applejack, "This is the Sisterhooves Social, Sisters only!"

"I asked my dad to change to rules," said Twilight Sparkle approaching with Spike on her back, "This way Spike and I can finally compete together."

"Aww yeah! That's what I'm talking about!" said Spike pumping his fist in the air.

"Well all the nerve you just come in the Social like this." Rarity said

"Why not?" Said Soarin matter of factly.

"Because it's some rules and regulations and highly unorthodox." Said Rarity

"Now, Now." Said Applejack "If the boys want to play with big girls, There more then free to do so."

"Thank You." Said Thunderlane looking I bit offended.

"Right," Said Rainbow Dash confronting "And may the best "Girl" Win."

"Ha bring it." replied Sorain

Trenderhoof Troubleshoes, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Big Mac watch from a far on a hill.

"For the record, I do see foresee this not ending well," said Trenderhoof, "So we're going to sit this one out. Call us back when you realize you're in total dunderheads."

"Eeeyup!" Said Big Macintosh following behind.

"The frist round is the annual pie eating contest!" Nightlight announced .

Applejack and Applebloom were setting at a table with a long line of other ponies.

"Are tou ready for this little sis?" Said Applejack

"Eeupe I've been ready for this all year!" Appleboom said

"So are we." Said a voice next to them.

The Apple sisters turn to see Flash and Frist Base next to them.

"Arn't you a little embarrassed that you're the only boys competing in this round?" Ask Applejack

"In the words of your big bother AJ." Flash said with a smirk on his face. " Nope"

"Besides we not the only boys Spike is right there." Frist Base ponited out.

Spike And Twilight waved at the other ponies from way at the other side of the table.

Then large piles of pies were stacked up front of the contestants.

"On you marks get set Go!" Shouted King Nightlight

The pony siblings began digging into to the pile of pies, as Applejack finishing her 3rd pie a voice rang out.

"Yo can I get some more pies for me and my bro?"

Applejack and Applebloom looked up to see the pile of pies in front of Flash and Frist Base dissappeared, and a large pile of pie tins were behind them, as Flash whipped his face with a napkin.

"What in tarnason!?" Applejack said in disbelief.

"I grew up on the streets with two other colts, If you don't eat fast you don't eat at all." Flash said

Applejack and Applebloom growled at the two brothers.

"Next we have the seven legged race!" Announced Nightlight.

All the ponies were lined up each silbing had their front hooves tied togather.

"Now Sweetie Belle." Raity said "Even though this is race we must do this with Elegance and grace."

"Hey," said a voice besides her, "That will make it easier for us to win."

The unicorns turn to see Thunderlane and Rumble sanding besides them.

"Now now, Rumble." Said Thunderlane looking at his brother sterling. "There's no need for that, this is just a friendly compet."

"Right," Said Rarity glaring at Thunderlane, "There's no need for any Pressure what so ever."

"On you marks get set go!" Announced King Nightlight.

All the ponies took off on top speed each one was interlock with their siblings.

"Oh wo!" cried out Spike as he ran aside Twilight.

Rairty charge foward with Sweetie belle a conference smile on her face. All of a sudden she notice Thunderlane and Rumble were mqking their way in the head of the path. Furious she charged foward in top speed.

"Oh!" Said Sweetie Belle as she lost her hoofing. "Rarity slow down!"

Rartiy continues to dragged Sweetie Belle along with her asshe triesto chatch up with Thunderlane, just asshe was aboutto reach him, she tripped on her own hoof and the unicorn sister fell face frist into the mud.

Everypony cheered as Thunderlane and Rumble pass the finish line.

"Excuse me ladies." Rumble said as he pass Rarity and Sweetie Belle by. " Butshould the seven legged race involves racing?"

Rarity and Sweetie Belle glared at the ponies from the mud.

"Now hog wrestling!" Announced Nightlight.

Rainbow Dash Scootaloo, Soarin, and Button Mash were all stared out at a large pen full of pigs.

"Bet ya we can get ours tied up faster then you can!" Rainbow Dash said

"Ha we can get ours tied up in 5mins." Said Soarin

"We can have ours tied up 3mins flat!" Said Scootaloo

"We can have ours in 2 and 3 coiters." Said Buttonmash.

"On you marks get set Go!" Said King Nightlight

All of the ponies race into the pig pens trying to catch a pig.

"Ahhh!" Said Spike riding a Pig while Twilight chaes after them.

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were caseing their own pig trying to catch him.

"You go left I'll take squart, I'll take him from the right!" Rainbow said

The two ponies charged at the pig surrounding him from both sides.

"Now!" Shouted Rainbow Dash.

Both She and Scootaloo leap and tackled the pig wrealing it to the ground, eventually the two ponies pen the pig down in the mud.

"We did it!" Rainbow Dash cheered "Did everypony see!?"

"I dont think so!" Said a conference voice

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo looked over at Soarin who was dusting his hooves off, he and Button Mash stood over the pig, his hooves tied togather and down on his back.

Both Fillies jaws dropped at this in disbelief.

"Oh did you?" Rainbow asked

"I've been hog tiing since I wasfour years old," Soarin said.

"When you were hog tiing?" Scootaloo asked

"There's a lot of things you don't know about me." Said Soarin.

"Next uptue talent Competition!" Shouted Nightlight.

Everypony stood in front of a large stage, were Cheese Said and Tender Tapes were tap dancing.

From back state Suri Polomare and Diamond Tiara were watching cockily.

"IF that's the best they have to offer then we got this contest in the beg." Suri said.

Cheeses Sandwich and Tender Taps threw their cains in the air and slip foward cating them when they landed. All of a sudden fire works shot off from behind them, The enitre audience roard with Applause.

Suri Polomare and Diamond Tiara looked at tye audience in disbelief.

"Good luck out there girls." Said Cheese Sandwich as he and Tender Tap walked back stage. "I know that's a though act to follow."

"Oh it is on!" Said Suri Polomare with fire in her eyes.

The Mares prepare for the next rounds of the sisterhood social, as music begins to play in the background. Applejack readjusts her hat, Rarity puts on leg warmers, Sufi Polomare ties back her hair, and Rainbow Dash puts black paint under her eyes. The older sisters all line up with their younger sisters at their sides.

"Sun comes Up"

"We're raring to go"

"We're heading for the finish line" Applejack and Applebloom can be seen trotting down a track, both balancing eggs with spoons in their mouths.

"Hooves are cloppin' all the way to the ropes"

"Gonna win these games tonight"

"You're living in a colt's world"

"They tell us" All of a sudden Flash Sentry and First base start to catch up to them.

"But we ain't gonna buy it" Applejack takes ahold of Applebloom and charges forward.

"The things they're trying to sell us now" The sisters cross the finish line just in time.

"'Cause it's the Sisterhooves Socia-al!"

"Woooooooo!"

In the next event Rainbow Dash flies through the air with a pumpkin.

"Yeah, it's the Sisterhooves Social!"

Suddenly she slams it down a large target.

"The Sisterhooooves Social, Social, Social, Socia-al!"

Soarin, and Button Mash watch as Rainbow Dash does a victory dance.

"Oh, yeah!"

We focus in on Soarin's eyes as they intensify.

"The stage is set and I'm ready to go" Soarin, Flash, Thunderlane, and Cheese line up.

"My Bros are at my side!" Their little bros appear at their sides.

"There's nothing more that I'd rather do"

"Than go for this wiiiiild ride, yeah" Thunderlane and Rumble can be seen holding on tight to a bucking bronco.

"All we have is what we will be givin'" All of a sudden the two cult notice Rarity and Sweetie Belle balancing on their bull with complete elegance.

"Headed for the top" Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo make their way up a rope wall.

"Don't you know?!"

Suddenly Soarin and Button Mash charge past them.

"We'll never stop believin' now" Dash scowls at the two colts cheering at the top.

"'Cause it's a Brotherhooves Socia-al!"

"You better believe it!" Suri and Diamond Tiara scowl as Cheese Sandwich and Tender Taps beat them at Square Dancing.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah!"

"'Cause it's a Brotherhooves Social!"

Applejack and Applebloom can be seen collecting apples with baskets on their heads. All of sudden they turn to see Flash and Firstbase siting back with a huge pile of apples.

"Brooootherhooooves Social!"

Flash tosses Applejack an apple cockily, which she instantly crushes in her hoof.

Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and Suri Polomare all line up looking determined.

"We are the Sisters"

"Yes the Sisters"

"We are the Sisters of the Socia-al!"

Flash Sentry, Thunderlane, Soarin, and Cheese line up also looking determined.

"We are the Brothers"

"Yes the Brothers"

"We are the Brothers of the Socia-al!"

Cheese Sandwich takes place in a water relay in a nearby lake, with Tender Taps on his back. All of Sudden Suri Polomare zooms past them with Diamond Tiara. The two fillies towel off as they smile cockily at Cheese, who sinks down in the water em

"Cause it's a Brotherhooves Social!"

Soarin and Button Mash pull Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash forward in a tug of war.

"Ohhhhhhhhhh!"

Rainbow Dash slams her hood in the mud.

"Yeah, it's the Sisterhood Social!"

Applebloom leads a blindfolded Applejack forward, tossing Flash and First Base into a tree,

"Better be believin' that it is!"

Flash lifts up his blindfold to glare.

"Yeah, it's a Brotherhood Social"

Thunderlane shoots his arrow directly at a target, beating Rarity and Sweetie at archery.

"BRoooootherhooves Soooocial!"

Rarity fumes.

"Yeah it's the Sisterhooves Social!"

Trenderhoof, Trouble Shoes, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Big Mac watch from an adjacent hill through binoculars. Both stallions are sitting back in lawn chairs with cold drinks.

"Sisterhooves Social!"

"I told you this would've end well," said Trenderhoof matter of factly.

"Yeah, it's a Brotherhooves Social"

"Eeyup," said both Trouble Shoes and Big Mac in agreement.

It was almost time for the final even of the social and the older siblings were debating of who won the most evens.

"Ah won Applebucking fare and square!" Shouted Applejack.

"Only becuse you had Rainbow Dash tackled me!" Said Soarin

"I didn't tackle you!" Cried Rainbow Dash "You crashed into me!"

As the older siblings continued fightin, the younger oones that sat on the sidelines watched.

"Is it just me?" Said Scootaloo "Or is this not fun anymore."

"Yeah." Said Rumble "I wouldn't have join if I knew that they were going to fight like kids."

"Hey guys!" Said Tender Tapes running up to the others. "Isn't great Cheese and I are having a blast."

The other foals glared at Tapes.

"What?" He said looking at them confused.

"Enough!" Said Thunderlane back with the older Siblings. "This arguing is getting us no where!"

"His right!" Said Flash Sentry stood next to him. "There's one even left, The optical Corps who ever wins that will be undivided winner of the Brotherhooves or Sisterhooves Social."

"Agreed and let the best Sisters win!" Rarity said

"Hey I already Said!" Said RD

"There's one even left!" Said King Nightlight, "The obstacle Course! Each pair of siblings will jump over the mud pit, Run though the berrals, Hop over the crate, Eat the Pies, Push the Hey stacks, Stomp the grape juice, Toss the apples in to the buckets, Balance the eggs, then jumped though the hurdles to the finish line! All Contesteds to you marks!"

All the teams of Siblings were lined up.

"This is for sister ever where squart," Rainbow whispered to Scootaloo.

"That mare is going down like a ton of bricks," Soarin whispered to Button Mash.

"Eyes on the prize Diamond Tiara, Eyes on the prize." Suri Polomare said to Diamond.

"Oh it is on!" Rarity said glaring at her rival.

"We've been training for this for years." Thunderlane said to Rumble.

"We got this bro." Flash said to First Base.

"Not if we get it frist!" AJ said.

"This is going to be fun!" Said Cheese Sandwich not having care in the world.

Twilight and Spike looked over their friends with concerns on their faces.

"Um guy are you taking this a bit to seriously?" Asked Twilight

"Yeah," Said Spike in agreement "It just a game."

"It's more then just a game!" Said Applejack "This is Personal!"

Applebloom just rolled her eyes.

King Nightlight pointed his horn up into the air as it began to spark up.

"On your marks...Get set...Go!" he shouted as a beam of magic shot up into the air.

All of the contestants took off with there younger sibling close.

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were in the lead making their way to the mud pit. All of a sudden something pulled on Rsinbow Dash's tail causing to fall face first in the mud.

"Oops.." said Soarin quickly passing her by.

Rainbow Dash picked herself up with fire in her eyes. She quickly raced after him not even bothering to look back.

Over at the barrels Flash and First base were struggling to keeps up. All of a sudden, Rainbow Dash zoomed past knocking them and barrels away.

"Hey! What do you think you're doing!" said Flash chasing after her.

Over at the crate Applejack was trying to help Applebloom get over it. All of a sudden, Flash leapt atop of her trying to catch Rainbow Dash, knocking them both down.

"Why you cotton picking...!" Shouted Applejack.

Over at the pies Rumble and Thunderlane were quickly digger through there's. All of a sudden Apple Jack slammed herself down at the table, planting Thunderlane face first in his pie. She then proceeded to eat Rumble's pie and dash.

"Nobody does that to my Little Brother!" said Thunderlane filled with a rage he'd never felt before.

Further down the line, Twilight and Spike were halfway through pushing their haystack. They watched as Soarin, Rainbow Dash, Flash, Applejack, and Thunderlane raced past.

"Um, didn't they forget their haystacks?" asked Spike looking confused.

"Yes Spike, I believe they did," said Twilight in agreement.

Over at the grape vats, Diamond Tiara and Suri Polo are were looking up at pony's stomping grapes into juice.

"Yeah, there is no way we're doing this," said Suri looking disgusted.

All of a sudden, Soarin and Rainbow Dash jumped both jumped into the same vat, splashing the two sisters.

"My Scarf!" Shrieked Suri in utter horror.

Flames filled her eyes as she jumped into the vat after them.

Over at the apple trees, Thunderlane Was tossing apples Flash's bucket, while Rainbow Dash tossed them Applejacks. Flash and Applejack glared at each other as they did so.

Down by the chicken coops Sweetie Belle and Rarity were carefully working together to balance their egg on each other's muzzle. All of Sudden Soarin passed them by, but they managed to dodge him. Rainbow Dash also flew past, but they dodged her as well. They then continued to dodge Flash, Applejack, and Thunderlane, barely making it by a hair. Rarity gave a small sigh of relief.

"Move it!" A voice shouted out.

All of sudden Suri Polomare slammed into Rarity from behind, causing there egg to fall to ground and shatter. Sweetie Belle looked down at the egg yolk lying open the dirt and began to tear.

"Suri Polomare!" shouted out Rarity in blind fury.

The seven crashed through the hurdles making their way to finish line. All of a sudden, Rainbow Dash tackled Soarin, only to be tackled by Flash, who was tackled by Applejack, who was tackled by Thunderlane, who was tackled by Suri Polomare, who as you can guess was tackled by Rarity. The seven older sibling wrested each other to the ground in a cloud of dust, which inevitably made its way across the finish line. They then proceeded to collapse, the remaining contestants passing them by did so.

"I won!" Cried out Soarin in amazement.

"No, I won!" shouted Rainbow Dash.

"I won!" shrieked Suri Polomare.

"No, I won!" screamed Rarity.

"You tied," said the voice of Trenderhoof. He and Troubleshoes were sitting back in lawn chairs at the end of the finish line.

"Tied!?" shouted all seven ponies at once.

"For first?" asked Applejack.

"For last," said Trouble Shoes.

"Last!?" the seven ponies cried out all at once.

"But...We crossed the finish line before anypony else!?" said Soarin in disbelief.

"True," said Trenderhoof matter of factly, "But in your haste to get to the finish line without your younger siblings..."

The ponies looked around. It was true, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, First Base, Button Mash, Rumble, and Diamond Tiara were nowhere to be found. They had been in such a rush to get to the finish line they hadn't even noticed.

"Yahooo!" The voice of Tender Taps cried out.

The ponies all turned to see Cheese Sandwich pulling all eight younger sibling forward in a hay cart.

"Cheese! Cheese! Cheese! Cheese! Yaaaaaaaay!" the foals cried out as they crossed the finish line.

"Hey guys!" said Cheese with a smile, "I think you forgot something."

Rainbow Dash's eye began to twitch, "Then who won!?"

All of a sudden Twilight and Spike walked over to the ponies, each wearing a blue ribbon.

"Twilight," said Flash in disbelief, "You and Spike won?"

"Oh no," said Twilight, "but we did place in third."

"Which is pretty impressive seeing as we've never competed before," said Spike.

Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Soarin, Flash, and Thuderlane looked at each other ashamed. They slowly tugged over to the hay cart where Cheese was unloading the fillies and foals.

"Young'ns," said Applejack taking off her hat, "Were sorry about the way we acted."

The younger siblings looked at their older brothers and sisters with scowls on their faces. All except for Tender Taps who was hugging Cheese.

"Go on said," said Applebloom tapping her hoof.

"We weren't very good sports," said Flash hanging his head low.

"And we were even worse sibling," chimed in Thunderlane ashamed.

"And..." said Rumble.

"We totally let this competition get the best of us," said Rainbow Dash, "We were so focused on keeping this the Sisterhooves Social, we completely forgot what even means to be a good sister.

"And we were so focused on trying to make this a Brotherhooves Social, we forgot what it means to be a good brother," chimed in Soarin, "Can you ever forgive us."

The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Ponyville Boys looked at each other skeptically.

"Is that all you got?" Sweetie Belle asked unamused.

"WaaHahahaaaaa!" cried out Rarity, bursting into tears as she fell to ground, "What more do you want from us!? We were horrible older sister! And horrible older brothers! We don't deserve your forgiveness! Please take us back! Please, please, please, please, PLEASE!"

"Rarity, relax," said Sweetie Belle rolling her eyes with a smile, "We were just kidding."

Rarity began to pull herself together, "R-r-r-really..."

"On one condition," said Applebloom with a sly smile.

Later that day, everypony was at the ice cream stand treating their younger siblings to a well deserved treat. Trenderhoof and Troubleshoes were off to the sides, still in their lawn chairs sipping root beer floats.

"Attention everypony," said King Nightlight clinking his glass with a spoon, "I have an announcement to make. After everything that has happened today, I hereby decreed that the the Sisterhooves social shall be redubbed the Sibling Socail! So that no sibling ever get's left out."

Everypony cheered at the sound of the announcement.

"There's just one thing I don't get Twilight," said Rainbow Dash, "I can understand why Cheese didn't get overly competitive, seeing as he's well Cheese..."

She looked over at Cheese Sandwich doing a merry jig with Tender Taps.

"...But why didn't you get overly competitive like the rest of us?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Rainbow Day," said Twilight Sparkle rolling her eyes, "I grew up with two brothers! I know how annoying they can be..."

"And I grew up with a sister," said Spike, "I'm used to how obnoxious they can be."

"Oh yeah," said Twilight raising an eyebrow, "Well what do you think of this?"

Twilight suddenly put Spike in a headlock and began giving him a noogie.

"AhHaha, Twilight cut it out," laughed Spike.

Everypony laughed at the scene. All except for Diamond Tiara and Suri Polomare who watched from afar.

"How come you're never like that with me?" asked Diamond Tiara.

"I'm not mom Diamond Tiara," said Suri Polomare in a huff.

It's a wonderbolt life

It was early in the morning at Tambelon castle. Soarin was watching over the Eastern Wall, and Thunderlane was there to make sure he did his job.

"It is always important to keep your eyes open," lectured Thunderlane, "Thought things seem peaceful now, you never know what may be out on the horizon."

All of sudden he heard snoring. Thunderlane turned to see Soarin leaning in on his spear. His eyes appeared to be open, but in actuality he had painted over his eyelids to make himself look awake. Thunderlane quickly grew red in the face.

He quickly kicked the spear aside, causing Soarin to fall face first to the concrete floor.

"Wait! What? What Happened!? What?" said Soarin looking around with a start.

He quickly looked up to see Thunderlane scowling down at him.

"Would you please take this seriously!" shouted Thunderlane, "A royal guard must always stay at attention!"

"Okay, okay," said Soarin yawing, "But you know I don't plan on being a Royal Guard forever...I intend to be a Wonderbolt!"

"A Wonderbolt's duty is to guard over the skies of Equestria," said Thuderlane rolling his eyes, "If you can't even handle guard duty, I fail to see how you can that!"

A furious look suddenly crossed Soarin's face.

"Hey, you don't know anything about me you jerk," said Soaring leaping to his feet.

"I know that you're lazy," said Thunderlane handing Soarin his spear, "Why can't you be more like Flash!"

Soarin glared at Thunderlane for a moment, then glanced down at the courtyard below. Down at the main gate Flash Sentry was giving order to the Tambelon Guards, an air of dignity about him.

Soarin's face quickly grew red and then he flew off in a huff.

Thunderlane rolled his eyes, "What is with that stallion."

Off in the shadows, a mysterious green pegasus with and orange mane was watching Soarin fly away.

"Looks like things between the traitor and his pony pals are growing tense," said Lightning Dust speaking into a walkie talkie.

"Excellent!" said a grey maned stallion in a bomber jacket.

He was leaning back in a chair in a dark room, numerous monitors in front of him. One of them showed an image Soarin flying over Tambelon Castle.

"The Wonderbolt's will be offering a position any day now," said Wind Rider cockily, "Then, we can finally use him to our advantage..."

Later that day, Soarin was lazing about atop of a cloud. The expression on his face suggested he was still upset with Thunderlane.

All a sudden, a downpour of rain splashed him in the face.

"Hey!" said Soarin shaking out his mane.

The stallion looked up to see Rainbow Dash floating above him on a little grey rain cloud.

"Hey slacker," said Rainbow Dash with a cocky smile on her face face, "Shouldn't you be guarding the gate with Thuderlane?"

"It was boring" said Soarin with a scowl, "Rrub salt into the wound why don't ya!"

Soarin began flying off in another direction still upset, but our rainbow maned mare followedafter him.

"Hey, what's got your tail in a knot?" asked Rainbow Dash.

"I don't want to talk about it," Soarin replied

"Come on," said Rainbow Dash going him fake doe eyes "I've learn that talking can make others feel better."

"Ugh, Fine," Soarn said begrudgingly, "It's Thunderlane he said, 'You need to take things seriously if you want to become a Wonderbolt!' Can you belive the nerve of that guy?"

"Gee, who'd want to passionate about reaching their goal?" Rainbow Dash said sarcastically, "Thunder was just being hard on you is becuse that he cares."

"Well he did it in way that ticked me off!" said Soarin angrily, "Not to mention he compared me to Flash! I mean really we can't all life hooded to us!"

"What's that supposed to mean?" asked Rainbow Dash curiously.

"...Nothing," said Soarin ending the conversation abruptly.

Rainbow Dash could tell Soarin was upset about something. She was about to bring it up, until suddenly a derpy eyed mail pony crashed into them.

"Ouch!" the the pegasi all said together.

"Oh, Hi guys." The gray coated pegasus said.

"Hi Derpy," They both said rolling their eyes.

"Crashing into things as always I see," said Soarin

"Sure am guys," chimed Derpy happily "Oh, I've got these letters for you two! It's from the Wonderbolts."

"Oh okay," said Rainbow Dash dusting herself off. "Thanks."

She hadn't fully grasped yet what Derpy had said. As she Soarin took their mail, two looks of realization suddenly came across their faces.

"The WonderBolts!" The two pegasi said in unison.

Both ponies suddenly opened there letters in excitement

"To Rainbow Dash!" said Rainbow Dash.

"To Soarin!" said Soarin.

"Congratulation," read Rainbow Dash.

"You have officially been accepted," continued Soarin.

"To the Wonderbolt's Academy," read Rainbow Dash.

"For full time membership as Wonderbolt's" screamed Soarin.

"Yes!" shouted out both ponies leaping up into the air.

Later that day at Rainbow Dash's cloud home a party was being held.

"Let's hear it for our favorite new Wonderbolts!" Everypony cheered.

Inside the house the mane six, stallion six, the CMC, Spike, Big Mac, the ponyville boys, and even Discord were celebrating Soarin and Rainbow Dash's becoming Wonderbolts.

"And thank you very much, for the totally awesome party." RD said with a cocky grin on her face and Soarin doing the same. "And we already know we were Wonderbolts."

"Well you're all getting a little to ahead of yourself aren't you," said Thunderlane speaking up, "You two got into the academy, not the actual Wonderbolts."

Everypony looked at Thunderlane with faces that said 'Killjoy'. Except for Discord who literally a 'Killjoy' sign.

"Well we are still in the Wonderbolt's Academy, so it pretty much still counts," Soarin replied before marching up Thunderland with a smug look on his face. He then pulled the out the letter he received from the Wonderbolts and waved it in Thunderlane's face. "I guess this 'Lazy Pony' has the right attitude after all! What do you say about that mister always takes things oh so seriously?"

"I'd say, just because you got in to the Academy doesn't mean you'll pass," Said Thunderlane.

"Uh fellas, let's settle down now said," said Applejack.

"Oh yeah well why I betcha I do pass!" said Soarin furiously.

"Buddy, chill out," said Flash Sentry

"I'd take that be," said Thunderlane rolling his eyes.

"Oh my goodness," said Fluttershy nervously.

"Oh yeah!" said Soarin, "Well why don't you put your money where your muzzle is."

"I'm listening," said Thunderlan

"This is just getting interesting," said Discord pulling out popcorn.

"I bet you here and now that I will get into the Wonderbolt's,"said Soarin confidently holding out his hoof, "and when I do, You'll take over my guard shifts for the next two weeks."

"Ha, I'll take that bet," Thunderlane said as he took the blue coated stallion's hoof, "but if you can't cut it, you'll take ove duties for the two weeks."

"Deal!" They both said as they shook hooves while glaring at each other.

"Okay, that's enough of that," said Flash cut them short, "Pinkie Pie, why don't you cut the cake!"

Flash quick got between the two stallion and pushed them away from the rest of the group.

"Okay, okay what is this really about?" he whispered

"Ask him," Thunder said with crossly, "This morning I was showing him how to do his shifts, but he wasn't taking his position and dozedoff."

"Well mister taking things way too seriously, was being a jerk and called me lazy!" Soarin replied in an angry voice.

"You are lazy said," said Thunderlane matter of factly

"Hey!" said Pinkie popping out in front of them with a cupcake in hoof, "This is supposed to be a party! We are supposed to be having a good time! And having fun! So no more being angry and mean talking."

The two pegasi glared at each other. They then turned and decide to just enjoy the party, neither one looking at the other..

"Well I thought it was fun," Discord said still munching on popcorn.

Fluttershy just glared at him, "Not helping Discord."

"Maybe I should talk to them." Flash said sighing

"Wait," Fluttershy then said taking Flash's shoulder, "I should talk to Thunderlane. A little kindness might give him a change of tune."

"Yeah," Rainbow Dash then said "And I'll talk to wonder boy, I can kind of relate of what he's going through."

The next day Soarin and Rainbow dash had arrived and Wolderfbolts headquarters. Spitfire was showing the two newbies around.

"Team briefings are every morning at—"

"0720," said Rainbow Dash, Interrupting Spitfire, "because there were twenty ponies in the original E.U.P. Guard that became the Wonderbolts!"

"Right," said Spitfire looking confused, "And I know you've seen the academy bunks, but these are the official Wonderbolts barracks."

"Built by Admiral Fairweather himself!" said Soarin proudly.

Rainbow Dash stepped forward making there way to the barracks. All of a sudden there was a large sharp tug on her tail, causing her to fall to grass with a thud. She looked up to see that Spitfire had grabbed ahold of her tail.

"Don't forget rule number one, newbie," said Spitfire pointing out the runway Rainbow had almost crossed, "Always check both ways before crossing the runway."

Rainbow Dash looks both ways confused, "Uh, sure, but... nopony else is here."

"They will be," said Spirfire sternly, "and most of the Wonderbolts like to make a flashy entrance, so stay alert."

"Right, no problem!" said Rainbow Dash picking herself up.

Inside of the academy bunk, Soaring and Rainbow Dash were both unpacking. As Soarin began putting items away in his locker, Rainbow Dash glanced at him curiously.

"So do you want to talk about what happened last night," she asked nonchalantly.

"Um no," Soarin replied looking annoyed.

"It seemed like you were upset about something," said Rainbow Dash taking her Wonderbolt's uniform out of her locker.

"Well I wasn't" said Soarin, zipping up his own uniform.

"You know, I bet Thunderlane would go a lot easier on you if you opened up to him." said Rainbow Dash putting on her mask.

"Well it's none of his business," said Soarin walking out the door, "and it's none yours either."

Rainbow dash frowned and quickly raced after him. The two ponies walked about the Wonderbolt's field, fully dressed in their new uniforms. Soarin was quickly getting annoyed of Rainbow Dash following him.

"I mean, come on...What do we really know about each other?" Rainbow Droned on, "I mean, I know you grew up on the streets with Flash and Cheese...But what else is there to Soaring? Where did you come from? Why did you want to be a Wonderbolt so badly?

"Rainbow Dash!" Soarin cried out with a sudden look of horror.

"I'm not stopping till you answer some of my questions," said Rainbow Dash mockingly as she flew ahead of Soarin.

"No it's not that!" said Soarin in a panic.

"Come on buddy just tell me," said Rainbow Dash turning around to face Soarin.

She continued to fly backwards unaware that that she was headed twoards the runway.

"Tell me...Tell me, tell me, tell, me tell me!"

"Rainbow, no! Turn around! You don't understand!" the ponies began talking at once.

Rainbow slowly began flying across the runway, completely unaware of where she was. More importantly she was unaware of the Wonderbolt's who were coming in for a landing.

"CRASH!!!!!!"

Before anypony even knew what had happened, Rainbow Dash in a nearby garbage can. Spitfire looked down at the newly disappointed.

"Whoa, most awesome entrance by a newbie ever," said Misty Fly one of the Wonderbolt's who had just landed

"Are you okay, Rainbow Dash?" said Soaring looking concerned.

"More like Rainbow Crash!" said Fleetfoot the other Wonderbolt who had landed.

Rainbow dash blushed as all the ponies around her began to laugh.

The next morning all the new Wonderbolt recruits were warming on the fields preparing for training. Soarin was doing wing exercises himself, when he suddenly noticed somepony was missing.

Soarin trotted back up to the barracks to find Rainbow Dash curled up into a ball in the corner, shivering.

"Uh Rainbow Dash," said Soarin looking confused, "You do remember that team briefing begin at 0720? Don't you?"

"Of course," said Rainbow Dash with a nervous smile, "I just need a few minutes of mental preparation."

Soarin eyed Rainbow Dash suspiciously. He waited patiently for her to put on her new uniform, and then lead her back onto the field. As they trotted out onto the green Soarin couldn't help but notice she was still shivering.

"So," said Soarin, "you're not still upset about what happened yesterday are you?"

"Me!?" said Rainbow Dash in a panic, "Why would I be upset!? You know Rainbow Crash...Dash!! It takes more than a simple Dash...Crash!!...to get me down!"

"Okay," said Soarin unconvinced, "Because you know, everyponys brobably forgot about it by now."

"Looks like Rainbow Crash slept in this morning," said Fleetfoot as she passed them by.

She and Misty Fly chuckled to themselves as Rainbow Dash's face turned red.

As Soarin made his way to runway he suddenly noticed Rainbow Dash wasn't behind him. He turned around to see her curled up in a ball in the grass once again.

"Come on Rainbow Dash.." said Soaring through his teeth. He was biting on her tail desperately trying to pull her towards the runway.

"...We've got to get there before..."

"Cadets!" A loud voice boomed out.

All the new Wonderbolt's recruits suddenly panicked as they raced their way to the runway. Soarin lifted Rainbow Dash over fish shoulders and flew her over just as Spitfire landed.

"You are to report at runway every morning at 0720 on the dot," said Spitfire pacing down the long line of new recruits.

"Anypony who acts otherwise," she continued eyeing Soaring, "Will answer to me..."

Soarin glared at Rainbow Dash, who slinked downwards more embarrassed than ever.

Spitfire the. turns to face the lineup of new Wonderbolt recruits.

"Let's get down to business"

"Become Wonderbolt's"

"Did they send me Stallions," Spitfire eyes a particularly muscular Pegasus who suddenly faints.

"Or a bunch of Colts?"

"You're the saddest bunch I ever met," she says pointing her hooves at the recruits one by one.

"But you can bet before we're through"

Spitfire gets directly into Rainbow Dash's face.

"Pony, I'll make a Bolt out of you"

Beads of sweat start to drip down Dash's face.

The new recruits began doing relays through the cloud rings above as Spitfire watched from down below.

"Tranquil as a raincloud"

"But on fire within"

All of a sudden Rainbow Dash noticed someone's chuckling up at her.

"Once you find your center"

"You are sure to win"

Rainbow Dash was so distracted she crashed into Soaring midair and sent all the recruits crashing down to the ground.

"You're a spineless pale pathetic lot" said Spitfire shaking her head.

"And you haven't got a clue"

"Somehow I'll make a Bolt out of you"

As the large pile of recruits picked themselves up from the ground, they all glared at Rainbow Dash. The blue pegsus' face was glowing redder than ever.

Later on that that day the recruits were flying through a raging thunderstorm, desperately trying to keep up with Spitfire.

"I'm never gonna catch my breath" thought Soaring as he struggled forward.

"Say goodbye to those who knew me" though the muscular pony as he was struck by lightning.

"Why was I a fool in school for cutting gym?" Thought a lavender mare, as the recruits struggle to climb up a mount face without flying.

Later on Spitfire was doing hoof to hoof combat with Rainbow Dash. Soarin watched as Spitfire tossed her aside easily.

"Spitfire's got 'em scared to death!" Though Soarin.

"Hope she doesn't see right through me" Though Rainbow Dash.

"Now I really wish that I knew how to swim" Though a muscular pony as swam through a raging river with the other recruits.

Later that night the recruits were dodging fireworks as they shot up into the sky.

"We must be swift as a bolt of lightning"

(Be a Bolt) Soarin was dodging them easily.

"With all the force of a great typhoon"

(Be a Bolt) Rainbow Dash, not so much.

"With all the strength of the raging thunder" All of a sudden Dash was hit by one.

"Mysterious as the dark side of the moon" She crashed down to the ground right in front of Spitfire who shook her head.

The next morning all the recruits were doing a large amount of pushups. Spitfire was marching over all of them, watching them one by one,

"Time is racing toward us"

" 'Til your day arrives"

"Heed my every order" thought Spitfire as she noticed the muscular pony struggling

"And you might survive" all of a sudden the muscular pony collapsed to the ground.

Spitfire loomed over the muscular pony a glare in her eye. She leaned down and spoke to him directly...

"You're unsuited for the Wonder Corp."

"So pack up, go home, you're through"

"How could I make a Bolt out of you?"

The muscular snowflake quickly trotted away bursting into tears. As Rainbow Dash watched this happen beads of sweat began to drip down her brow.

Days went by and trying went onward.

"We must be swift as a bolt of lightning"

(Be a Bolt) The recruits had all but mastered the relay.

"With all the force of a great typhoon"

(Be a Bolt) Rainbow Dash and Soarin charged through the thunderstorm.

"With all the strength of the raging thunder" The lavender pony and her sister climbed up the mountain face with ease.

"Mysterious as the dark side of the moon" Soarin fought against Spitfire in hoof to hoof combat. This time the stallion was able to knock her back. Spitfire was impressed.

"We must be swift as a bolt of lightning"

(Be a Bolt) Rainbow Dash flew through the fireworks again, this time able to dodge.

"With all the force of a great typhoon"

(Be a Bolt) Both Rainbow and Soaring swam through the raging rapids.

"With all the strength of the raging thunder"

The Wonderbolts recruits all lined up behind Spitfire, all of them giving a salute.

"Mysterious as the dark side of the moon"

Meanwhile back in Tambelon, Thunderlane was chuckling alongside Runble and the Ponyville Boy. All of a sudden, Fluttershy swooped down and took him by the hoof.

"Excuse me Rumble, I need to borrow your brother for a moment."

Rumble and Firstbase watched as Fluttershy dragged him away.

"And that's why I'm never getting a girlfriend," said Rumble.

"We need to talk," said Fluttershy giving her boyfriend the eye, "You were very rude to Soaring the other night, and I think it's high time that you gave him an apology.

Thunderlane frowned, "I am more than willing to make amends with Soarin anytime he wishes...But he must make the first move."

Fluttershy crossed her arms, her cheeks puffing out.

"Oh Thunderlane, why do you always have to be so stubborn..."

"I am not stubborn," corrected Thunderlane, "I am dedicated...Unlike Soarin who never commits to anything."

"Mail call!" said the derpy eyed mail pony from earlier. She opened up her satchel and dumped a large pile of letters atop of Thunderlane and Fluttershy.

As the two pegasi popped their heads out from the pile, Fluttershy opened up a letter addressed to her.

"Well how about that," said Fluttershy giving Thunderlane a cocky look, "According to Rainbow Dash, Soaring just happens to be the top of his class at the academy..."

"What!?" cried out out Thunderlane, his face growing red.

"And what's more...Oh dear," said Fluttershy her expression suddenly changing.

"What is it," said Thunderlane concerned about Fluttershy's change in emotion.

"It says here that Rainbow Dash might not pass the Academy at all!" said Fluttershy in a panic.

Back at the Wonderbolt's Academy, Spitfire was reviewing the cadets progress one by one...

"Excellent work Soarin," said Spirfire reading her clipboard, "you're definitely on your way to the Wonderfbolts."

Soarin blushed a bit embarrassed.

"Cloudchaser, not bad," said Spitfire as she continued down the line of ponies, "Crash..."

Spitfire turned to Rainbow Dash who slunk down silently he face turning red.

"You've got a lot of potential Crash," said Spitfire looking disappointed, "But you need to pick up the pace if you want to make it in the Wonderbolt's. Tomorrow is your last chance to prove yourself. Dismissed!"

The new recruits all flew away one by one heading for the mess hall. All except for Rainbow Dash who slunk away heading back to the barracks. Soaring watched her trot away with concern.

Soarin entered the Barracks only to find Rainbow Dash sulking on her cot with her mask off.

"Okay what is going on with you?" said Soarin.

"Whatever..." said Rainbow Dash.

"Seriously," said Soarin, "In all the time I've known you, I've never once known you to unconfident or unmotivated, especially not when it comes to the Wonderbolt's."

"I said whatever.." snarked Rainbow Dash.

"You've been hounding since the day we got here about my issues," responded Soarin, "So what are your issues?"

"What-Ev-Er!" said Rainbow Dah hiding her head with a pillow.

Soarin frowned and then turned to walk away.

"Whatever yourself, Rainbow Crash."

All of a sudden a bright bolt of blue zoomed out of the cot directly at Soaring. The next thing he knew he found himself pinned against a locker by Rainbow Dash, fire in her eyes.

"Don't You Ever, EVER Call Me That!" She said.

Soarin smiled, "Finally a word beside whatever. Now we're getting somewhere."

Rainbow Dash sighed and let Soarin down from the locker.

"Look don't ever tell Anypony this," said Rainbow Dash, "Cause if you do, I'll deny it...But between you and me, I wasn't always the best flyer.

Soarin rolled his eyes, "I believe it.."

"In fact," said Rainbow Dash choosing to ingnore that, "Back when I was at Junior Speedsters Flight School, I was one of the worst fliers ever!"

"Oh come on," said Soarin, "It couldn't have possibly been that bad."

"Oh yes it was!" said Rainbow Dash tears appearing in the corners of her eyes, "I more times, and into more object than I could ever possibly count! And the other fillies and colts used to call me...!"

"...Rainbow Crash...Rainbow Crash...Rainbow Rainbow Rainbow Crash..."

Floods of past memories began to haunt Rainbow Dash. Pretty soon she curled up in the corner yet again, quivering. Soaring sighed feeling sorry for her.

"Well there are a lot worse things somepony could call you," he stated.

"What's that supposed to mean?" said Rainbow Dash picking himself up and and raising an eyebrow.

"I just saying, they could have called you worthless," said the Pegasus stallion his anger growing, "or loser, or a No Good Waste of Space that Would Have Been Better Off IF IT HAD NEVER BEEN...!!!!

Soarin suddenly stopped himself realizing what he had said. Rainbow Dah was looking at him suspiciously concern in her eyes.

"Somepony called you those thing," she said in disbelief.

"No," said Soaring smiling sheepishly, "Of course not! I was just giving an example..."

Rainbow Dash walked over to Soaring looking concerned, "What's going on Soarin?"

"Nothing said Soarin" swiping her hoof away, "Forgot I said anything...It's your life, you live it...I've got to go..."

Soarin scurried his way over to the door. Rainbow Dash watch, an angry look growing on her face.

"Hold on" said Rainbow Dash Zooming over and cutting him off, "I told you what was going on with me! Now you have to tell me what's going on with you! It's only fair!"

Soaring sighed, "Your right, the truth is...

All of sudden, Soaring lifted up for takeoff and zoomed out the window.

"Oh No! You're not Getting away That Easily!" said Rainbow Dash zooming after him.

Rainbow Dash Chased after Soarin with precision and Speed. She chased him through the mess hall where the other cadets were eating. Soarin tossed biscuits at her to try to lose, but Rainbow Dash dodged them easily much to the amazement of the other cadets. She then chased him through the relay course, blowing through it with ease. She even chased him through Spitfire's office, causing stacks of paper to go flying about the room.

Spitfire lowered her glasses as she watched Rainbow Dash zoom out the window off into the night, her jaw literally dropping.

Rainbow Dash flew off to the highest point over the Wonderbolt's Academy. She surveyed the grounds in the dark of the night trying to find Soarin.

"Soarin? Soarin?" she said unable to spot him.

Rainbow Dash raised up and her head and screamed to the highest mountain tops, literally parting the clouds.

"SOOOOARIN!!!!! WHERE ARE YOUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!"

From down below, Soarin watched Rainbow Dash, from a nearby bush. A hoof draped in pitch black fabric was wrapped around his muzzle. As Rainbow Dash zoomed away to keep looking, Soaring picked himself up from the bush.

"Thank's for the save, I guess," said Soaring sarcastically, "How'd you manage to sneak your way onto the grounds?"

"You know us," said the pony rolling Soaring out of the bushes.

She wore a uniform just like his, except pitch black and purple. From beneath her mask a lightning orange mane stuck out, as well as a light green muzzle.

"We blend in with the Shadows, that's why they call us Shadowbolts..."

Soarin scowled, "What do you want Lightning Dust?"

The mare smiled, "An old friend wants to see you..."

On a dark part of the mountainside not to far from the Wonderbolt's academy, several ponies in Shadowbolts' uninformes were sitting by an open fire. Lightning Dust led Soarin over to the group.

"Short Fuse...Rolling Thipunder...It's good to see you again..." said Soarin.

"Wish I could say the same," said the crazed looking dark blue Pegasus with a scar under her eye.

"Let me at Him! Let me at Him!" said a tiny red Stallion flying up into the air in a blind rage.

Two other Shadowbolts had to hold him back. Soaring rolled his eyes at the same old scene.

"You guys have a lot of guts have a lot of guts camping out this close to the Wonderbolt's Academy.." said Soarin.

"You're one to talk," a mysterious voice said.

From out of the shadows, an aged Pegasus in a bomber jacket appeared. He had a light blue coat and a graying mane.

"Wind Rider," said Soaring in disbelief, a twinge of fear on his face.

The leader of the Shadowbolt's approached Soarin, a cocky smile on his face.

"That uniform on you kid," Wind Rider said as he paced Soarin, "Almost as good as it looked on me. Gotta say I was impressed to hear that Wonderbolt's actually offered you a spot. Never thought I'd see that day. Only problem is, you decided to side against us..."

Wind Rider suddenly turned to look Soarin directly in the eye.

"You really are such a disappointment..."

Soarin glared back at the old Stallion, gritting his teeth.

"Right back at you Dad!"

Wind Rider smiled down at his son for a moment, then turned around to continue pacing.

"You could have been a great Shadowbolts," continued Wind Rider, "One of the best! But you just had to run away from home like a scared little filly..."

The other Shadowbolts all snickered around Soarin.

"Great?" asked Soarin raising an eyebrow, "One of the Beast? Gee dad, you've called me a lot of name over the years, but those two defined weren't among them."

"Is that what this is all about?" said Wind Rider nonchalantly, "I was tough on you. You have to be thought to be the best."

"You mean best at being a lackey for Sombra?!" said Soarin.

"Hey now, we're a freelance agency," said Wind Rider looking offended, "We work for whoever pays us."

Soarin glared at his farther not buying it.

"But now that you mention it," said Wind Rider, "Sombra has recently commissioned us with a very important mission..."

"Which is?" said Soarin raising an eyebrow.

"Long story short," said Wind Rider, "Sombra is on precipice of something big, and he needs the Wonderbolt's out the picture to accomplish it. We've got all our chapters from Manehatten to Las Pegasus poised and for the attack. The only problem is that the Wonderbolts have an alarm system, in case emergency. If any creature even attempt to attack their base of operations, the Royal Guard will be there to back them up in seconds..."

"How unfortunate for your payday..." said Soarin.

"That's where you come in kid," stated Wind Rider.

"Excuse me?" snapped Soarin.

"It's quite simple," continued Wind Rider, "You sneak into the control room. You cut the wires to the alarms. We storm the base, and nopony is ever the wiser...They don't even have to now you helped us. Good thing you were enrolled when you did, otherwise we'd all be in big trouble."

The Shadowbolts all chuckled.

Sorain then chuckled. "You guys thinks funny huh? You though I'd honestly help you!?"

"Excuse me?" Said Wind Rider

"You the same old stallion that you were when I left you." Said Soarin "Will to do anything to get a head, that's how you git kicked out of the wonderbolts, I dont plan on making the same mistakes, So forget!"

"You my boy, we've could have cut you in. But you made your choice." Siad Wind Rider. "But how for a girlfriend?"

Wind Rider then revealed a bound and gagged Rainbow Dash.

"Dash!" Soarin said in shock.

"Don't move!" Wind said "One step closer and this filly loses a wing."

One of the Shadowbolts who was holding her pulled out a a feather from her wing.

Soarin and RD locked eyes with each other for a moment. Then Soarin sigh, "You win."

"Of course I do I always win." Said Wind Rider.

The next day Back in Tamplon Castle, the remaining stallions, mares, and Spike were in the dining room having breksfest.

"This is bad, This bad, This is bad!" Pinkie said repeatedly pacing about left and right. "Rainbow Dash is not going to be a Wonderbolt!"

"Pinkie chill!" Cheese said stuffing a relaxing pancake in her mouth. "RD is our friend too and we are all just as worried about her right guys."

The others ponies all nodded their heads in agreement.

"And I'm sorry but panicking about is not going to get us any sing."

"Okay," Pinkie said after she finished swallowing her pancake.

All of a sudden, a lightbulb popped up over the pink ponies head.

"But what if we were there to support her in pony!"

The other ponies all looked at each other and than at Flash.

"Well today is our day off," thought Flash, "And I've always wanted to see the Wonderbolts HQ."

"So have I," agreed Twilight, "Anypony else?"

"I'm in!" agreed Applejack.

"I'm in!" agreed Rarity.

"I'm in!" agreed Spike.

"I'm out!" said Thunderlane reading his newspaper.

"Oh no you're not." said Fluttershy giving him the stare, "After all you do owe Soarin an apology mister."

"Aright maybe I was a littler hard on him." Thunderlane Admitted groaning "I'll go an apologized to the guy..."

"Then It's settled" Twilight declared. "We'll all go to support our friend Rainbow Dash and Soarin! TrenderHoof, get the Blimp!"

TrenderHoof rolled his eyes twoards TroubleShoes, "Why do we always have to take them places?"

Meanwhile at the Shodowbolts hideout, Rainbow Dash was still bound and gagged next to the camp fire. Short Fuse and Rolling Thunder wereguarding her.

"I don't believe this guard duty!?" The short pegasus yelled, "WE should be out there, breaking things!"

"Will you relax," The taller dark blue mare said, "It's just a simple job, watch this shela."

"Well it's not like she's going anywhere." Short Fuse replied "Look she's literally tied up, Hooves and wings! We even gagged her to shut her up."

"Mmm! Mmmm!" Was all Rainbow Dash could say.

"Still can't believe Soarin got himself a girlfriend," Short Fuse said "I mean the guys ego is huge."

Rainbow was blushing at what he just said.

"Well given what I've heard, this one's ego is even bigger," chuckled Rolling Thunder.

Rainbow growled at what she said.

"Well then, quit your whining," said Rolling Thunder, "We're only watching this one until Commander Windrider gets back. As for old Clipper he's going to regret the day he ever left."

Back at the Wonderbolts Academy

Soarin was walking though the fields, upset at himself of what his about to do.

"If only there was someway out of this," he thought to himself, "At least nopony I know is here to see this..."

"Yo Soarin," a familiar voice called out.

Soarin turned to see Flash, Thunderlane, and the rest of the gang all there on field.

"Hey, it's everypony I know..." said Soarin sheepishly.

"Glad to see you buddy," said Flash trotting over to him, "We all came up to support you and RD!"

"By the way, have you seen Rainbow Dash!" asked Twilight, "We've been asking around and nopony has seen her since last night."

Soarin glances upwards. High above the training fields, a tiny grey storm cloud hovered ominously. A bolt of lightning flashed within it revealing the silhouettes of Wind Rider and Lightning Dust.

"Rainbow Dash," said Soarin sweating nervously, "I don't know what to tell you. I haven't seen RD all day..."

Thunderlane looked at Soarin curiously, his eyebrow slowly raising upwards.

"Anyway," said Soarin pacing in place, "I gotta get going. Spitfire wants to see me in my office or something..."

Soarin quickly trotted away leaving the others dazed and confused.

"Well that was a bit huffy," said Fluttershy, "Wasn't it Thunderlane?"

Fluttershy turned only to see that Thunderlane had disappeared.

"Thunderlane?"

Soarin race across the academy trying to get as far away from his friends as possible. When he finally he'd made a safe distance, leaned back against the wall, of a barrack his heart pounding as he tried to catch his breath.

"Ahem," a voice said.

Soarin looked up to see Thunderlane floating just above him.

"What's going on," the Stallion asked as he land himself.

"Going on," said Soarin nervously, "Nothing's going on."

"The tone of your voice, the sweat on your brow, and the fact that you can't eye contact all suggest otherwise," said Thunderlane.

Soarin sighed heavily, "...Just try not to judge me too much alright."

Back at the hideout Short Fuse just about ready to blow his top.

"How long down does it take to shut down an alarm system?" the pony said turning redder than usual.

The Shadowbolt was so preoccupied, he failed to notice Rainbow Dash chewing through her gag.

"Relax mate," said Rowling Thunder, " We called our old pal Clipper under of hoof."

"Clipper this! Clipper that!" said Short Fuse ranting, "I don't even see why we need Clipper in the first place!?"

"Excuse me," a voice chimes up.

The two Shadowbolt's turned to see Rainbow Dash, her muzzle now free.

"If you don't mind me asking, why do you keep calling Soaring Clipper?" the pony said with an innocent smile.

"Oh it was hilarious," said Short Fuse chuckling, "On his first day of flight training, the guy clipped his wing on a flag pole, and he had to spend an entire week in the infirmary."

"Oh, so that's why you call him Clipper," said Rainbow Dash, "That's really small thinking..."

A sudden look of blind fury crossed Short Fuse's face.

"What did you just say?" the pony asked.

"Nothing," said Rainbow Dash, "I'm just saying it's small thinking."

Short Fuse, suddenly left up into the air and pinned Rainbow Dash against the wall.

"Easy Short Fuse," said Rolling Thunder, "she's just trying to mess with you."

"I don't care!" said Short Fuse, "I'm about to teach this pony a lesson she'll never forget."

"Stallion's first," said Rainbow Dash revealing her hooves were free.

She quickly use her hind legs to kick Short Fuse right into Rolling Thunder, causing them to both to land on the bonfire.

"YeeeeeAAAAAAAAAAGH!!!!!!!!!!" They both shouted.

Rainbow Dash quickly soared away, as the two Shadowbolts race about with their tails on fire.

Back at the Wonderbolt's Academy, Soarin had just reached a large door that said control room. He opened it to find a Pegasus in a blue cap sitting before a number of screens.

"Hey you're not supposed to be in here," the guard said.

"Commander Spitfire wants to see you," said Soarin, "Say's it's urgent."

A panicked look crossed the guards face as he quickly race out of the room. Soaring slowly trotted over to the control panel, his focus on a large flashing button that said 'Alarm System'. The stallion gave a heavy sigh and then pressed the button.

Up in the sky Wind Rider and Lightning Dust looked down from their storm cloud.

"That's the signal," said Wind Rider, "Go! Go! Go!"

One by one Shadowbolts began to peek their heads from out of the clouds. Hundred's and hundred's of Shadowbolts.

Down below Twilight, Flash, and the others were bumming about wondering when Soarin and Thinderlane would could back. All of a sudden a darks shadow was cast over the whole academy. Ponies looked up in terror to see legions after legion of Shadowbolts headed straight for the academy.

"Invasion!" shouted Spitfire, "Sound the Alarm!"

Sirens sounded out of the numerous megaphones that surrounded the camp. One by one the Wonderbolt's put on their uniforms and charged at the oncoming assult. Twilight and the other's watched as Shadowbolts and Wonderbolts did battle in the skies above.

"What's going on?" asked Twilight in a panic.

"It's the Shadowbolt's," said Rainbow Dash making a quick landing, "Their invading the academy!"

"Come on! We've got to help!" said Flash Sentry drawing his sword.

He quickly flew up horde of Shadowbolt's, Twilight Sparkle right behind him blasting out bolt's of magic. Back on the ground Cheese and Pinkie fired their party cannon and oncoming hordes. Troubleshoes and Applejack tried to lasso as many as Shadowbolt's as they could. Trenderhoof, flew his blimp directly into to horde while Rairty and Spike fired the cannons.

Fluttery tried to join on the fight alongside Rainbow Dash. All of a sudden a bright flash of orange, pinned Fluttershy down to ground. Rainbow Dash looked down to see Lightning Dust on top of her oldest friend.

"You leave her alone," said Rainbow Dash charging down right at her.

Just as she about to reach her, another Shadowbolt pinned Rainbow Dash to the ground.

One by one the rest of the Mane Six, stallions, and Wonderbolts were pinned down as well. Even Commander Spitfire was brought to her knees. As the dust settles Wind Rider brought himself in for a landing, and trotted right over to Spitfire.

"Well, well," said Wind Rider, "If it isn't my favorite student."

"Wind Rider," said Spitfire gritting her teeth, "You traitor..."

"I still can't believe they gave you my old job," said Wind Rider dusting off his hoof, "You were barely a filly when I left the Wonderbolts."

"You didn't leave," said Spitfire, "You were kicked for leading an invasion on the Storm Kingdom!"

"Hey, somebody had to put that old goat in his place," said Wind Rider, "Not my fault things went wrong..."

"We're running the Wonderbolt's Academy now," said Spitfire still on top of Fluttershy, "And we think we're gonna like it here!"

"I don't think so..." a voice said.

Everypony suddenly looked up to see Soarin and Thunderlane, the entire Canterlot Royal Guard behind them, including Balius and Xanthus.

"What!?" said Wind Rider in disbelief, "But how!??"

"Soaring told me all about your invasion," said Thunderlane, "While he was distracting by shutting off the Alarm, I was out getting the Canterlot Royal Guard..."

"Are you going to get off our mountain?" said Xanthus raising an eyebrow.

"Or are we gonna have to make ya!?" said Balius with a wicked grin.

The Shadowbolt's all looked at each other.

"RUUUUUUUUUUUUNNNN!!!!!!" one of them leaping up into the air terrified.

All at once, the Shadowbolt's flew up into the air, trying to get as far away from the academy as they could.

"Get back Here!" said Lightning Dust shouting up her comrades, "You Cowards!"

Wind Rider shielded his eyes from the dust of fleeing comrades. As it settled, Soarin and Thunderlane landed right in front of him.

"It's over Commander," said Soarin sarcastically.

"You think so, Cadet," said Wind Rider with a cocky smile, "It's might interest the Wonderbolt's to know that their newest recruit is..."

"Your son," said Thunderlane abruptly.

A stunned look crossed Wind Rider's face.

"He told me shortly after he filled me in on your invasion," said Thunderlane.

"We don't judge ponies by who they're related to around here," said Spitfire coming to Soarin's defense, "Just by the strength of their character."

Wind Rider looked around the campus. Literally everypony in the air and on solid ground was glaring at him. He was clearly outnumbered and unwanted.

"Hehehe," said Wind Rider chuckling to himself, "This isn't over..."

And just like that, he and Lightning Dust took off into the sky.

Later that day the Royal Guard was tending to the wounded all over the Campus. The Mane Six, Stallions, and Spike were gathered near the Barracks relaxing.

"You know, you could have just told us that huge jerk was your dad," said Flash to his buddy.

"I didn't want you to judge me," said Soarin, "Anymore so than usual."

Fluttershy glared at Thunderlane. The Stallion sighed and stepped forward.

"It's not easy for me to admit when I'm wrong," said Thunderlane, "But when I am, I admit it. Soarin, you are a dedicated and truly loyal friend. You're going to make a great Wonderbolt."

Soarin smiled.

"I'm glad to hear that," said Soarin slyly, "Because now that I'm a Wonderbolt, I'm going to need somepony my guard shifts for the next two weeks. We had a bet remember?"

"Actullay," sighed Thunderlane, "I was hoping you'd forget."

"CRASH!" a voice called out.

Everypony turned to see Spitfire storming over to them. Beads of sweat began to drip down Rainbow Dash.

"I want to talk to you about what happened last night!" said Spitfire getting right up in her face.

Rainbow Dash sighed, "I'm really, really sorry..."

"You'd better be sorry," said Spitfire, "Why didn't you tell me you could fly like that?"

"What?" asked Rainbow Dash confused.

"Why haven't you been flying like that this whole time?" continued Spitfire, "Have you been holding out on us?"

"But, I thought guys didn't want me on the Wonderbolt's," said Rainbow Dash.

"Are you kidding me," said Spitfire looking at her and Soaring, "We've wanted you both ever since you helped stop Sombra."

"But, you kept calling me Rainbow Crash," said Dash blushing.

"So," said Spitfire, "We all have embarrassing nicknames. It's kind of a tradition here."

"Wait, seriously," said Rainbow Dash in disbelief.

"You wanna know what my nickname is," said Spitfire with a smile.

She leaned in and whispered into Rainbow Dash's ear.

"Whoa!" said Rainbow Dash in shock, "That is so much worse than Rainbow Crash."

"Well," said Soarin putting a wing over Dash's shoulder, "It looks like you'll be a Wonderbolt after all Rainbow Crash."

"You too Clipper," said Dash with a sly smile.

A looke of panic suddenly crossed Soarin's face.

"Who told you?" he said glaring at her.

"Short Fuse," Rainbow Dash said slyly.

"I'm gonna kill him," said Soarin furious.

Everypony laughed except for Soarin.

High over the skies of Equestria, Wind Rider and Lighting Dust flew away.

"Well that was a total bust," said Lightning Dust in a huff.

"Not entirely," said Wind Rider Cockily.

He pulled out a large key with the letter S and L on the handle.

"I snuck this out of the Wonderbolt's vault," he said, "I have a feeling Sombra's gonna pay a hefty price for it..."

Bringing the Thunder

A train pulls up to the bright city of Tambelon, slowly coming to a stop. Everypony on it was pours out of at once, two unicorns stallions among them. One was none other then Starswirl the Bearded, the other a much younger orange stallion with bright tips on his face and hoofs. Like Starswirl, he too was wearing a wizards cap and even had a small beard.

"And, we are here," Starswirl said "Are you ready Sunburst?"

"Yes Sir," Sunburst said "But umm why are we here again?"

"To meet up with King Sleipnir and the other royals, and come up with a plan Sunburst," stated Starswirl, "Now that King Sombra have six keys, we need to be prepared for what's to come."

"Oh, okay," Sunburst said nervously adjusting his glasses "Here we go."

Meanwhile Thunderlane was guarding the castle. Since he had lost his bet with Soarin two weeks ago, he had been taking over both their shifts. The stallion was clearly exhausted, with blood shot eyes and five o'clock shadow on his muzzle. He was flying left and right around the castle in a clocklike manner, something Fluttershy took notice of.

"Umm, Thunderlane," Fluttershy said as she was caught up to him.

"What?!" Thunderlane snapped

A moment later he saw Fluttershy scared to death and quickly realized what he had done.

"I'm sorry Fluttershy," said Thunderlane calming himself down, "I've been doing a lot lately, what with me losing that bet with Soarin and covering everything."

"Well that's fine," Fluttershy said as she puts her hoof on his shoulder "But sometimes I think you are overworking yourself, even when haven't lost a bet. Not to mention you take your job a little too seriously."

"Well I'm just trying to make the kingdome safe for you Rumble, my friends and all its citizens," Thunderlane said growing tense, "What with Sombra on the rise...and the Storm King in the South... and the keys going missing...Can this get any worse!?"

"Guess who's here for a surprise visit!"

All of a sudden a loud voice cried out. The ponies turn to see a tall green pegasus stallion. He had a blonde mane done up in a bun and his very own five o'clock shadow.

"That's right, big sis, it's your one and only favorite little brother, moi."

"Yes, yes they can." Thunderlane said moaning.

The green stallion flew up to the yellow pegasus mare and then hugged her. "Hi, Flutterbutter! How's the bestest big sister ever? Hey, where's the love? How about a little excitement to see your baby brother?"

"I'm just surprised." Fluttershy said

"That why it's called a suprise." Zephyr said as he pulled away. "And here's one more thing, I'm moving here to Tambelon and got a job as a hair stylist at the local barber shop."

"Oh that is great news Zephyr." Fluttershy smiled.

"Guess they finally realized my talent." Zephyr said and then turn to Thunderlane.

"What's up Thunderbird?" Zephyr said "Well look at you being a big stallion now. And a member of the castle guard impressive, Though you really need to get ride of that outdated mow Hawk so last decade."

Thunderlane just rolled his eyes and said "Zephyr it's good to see you."

"But I'm going to need a place to stay until I can find my own." Zephyr said as he turn to Fluttershy with a certain look.

"Oh alright." Fluttershy said "But just until you've find you own place."

"Pinkie promise on it." Zephyr said as he did the promise.

The very next day, King Nightlight had all of the Royal Guards assembled in his throne room. Flash Sentry and Thunderlane were at his side.

"As you all know," said King Nightlight, "Starswirl the Bearded will be arriving at the palace tomorrow at exactly 1500 hours."

"Sir, yes sir," the Royal Guards all proclaimed.

"Therefore I will need every royal guard at my disposal bright eyed and alert for his arrival," finished the King.

"ZzzzzzzzZZZZZZZZZZZZZ," a loud snoring sound began to fill the entire room.

All the royal guards and the King turned to see Thunderlane fast asleep at Flash's side. Flash grinned sheepishly and elbowed p in the side.

"Sir, yes sir your majesty whatever you want!" announced Thunderlane waking up abruptly.

King Nighlight rolled his eyes, "Anyway, this is very important...So I need all my guards at the ready. If that's possible?"

The King glared at Thunderlane, who stood up straight trying to avoid eye contact.

As the King dismissed the troops, Flash looked over at Thunderlane concerned.

"Uh buddy, I know your my second command and all, but you sure you don't want to sit this one out? You've been working double shifts for the past two weeks..."

"No, no! I'm fine, I'm Fine!l" said Thunderlane trying to regain his composure.

"Seriously," said Flash, "I can handle Starswirl's visit by myself. It wouldn't kill you take a few days off."

All of the guards still in the throne room suddenly gasped in pure terror. Thunderlane slowly turned his head to look at Flash a terrifying look in his eyes.

"Day...OFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF!" Shouted Thunderlane shaking the entire castle.

"I haven't taken a day off since the day I enlisted!" said Thunderlane getting right up into Flash's face.

"Seriously," said Flash, "No wonder you're so high strung."

"Even when I had the feather flu and had to be shipped off to Ponyville Hospital, I still did my patriotic duty by guarding over the patients at Ward 0!" continued.

"Well then you've definitely got some vacation days built up," said Flash looking nervous, "Maybe it wouldn't kill you to use a few?"

"I have a Percy attendance record!" announced Thunderlane not listening to a word that Flash, "And I have no attention of breaking it now!"

As Thunderlane stormed out still fuming, Flash looked over at two ponies holding each tightly in fear.

"Soldier," said Flash.

"Yes Sir," said one of the Guards still quivering.

"Call Fluttershy, this is an emergency.."

Later at that day, Rainbow Dash and Soarin flew over into Thunderlane's apartment, entering through the window. Fluttershy was inside waiting for them brother.

"This had better be important Fluttershy," said Rainbow Dash, "Soarin and I still have a lot of work to do at the Wonderbolts Academy."

Fluttershy gestured over to Thunderlane. At the far wall, a bloodshot eyed Thunderlane wasting pasting schedules and other pieces of paper all over the wall, and connecting them with thumbtack and red string.

"Oh," said Rainbow Dash gritting her teeth.

"I've got it!" said Thunderlane clearly sleep deprived, "If I move my regular rotations around the palace wall to 3:15, I can still meet up with Starswirl at the Throne Room as long as I fly at the speed of light!"

"Um buddy," said Soarin looking concerned.

"Then all I have to do is fly back to the company barracks at the speed of sound to chew out the new recruits!" Thunderlane continued.

"Yo, Thunderlane," said Soarin clopping his hoof.

"It will all work perfectly!" said Thunderlane with a crazy smile.

"Grab him," shouted Rainbow Dash

She and Soarin quickly pile drived on top of Thunderlane struggling to pin him to the ground.

The next morning, Thunderlane awoke to the rays of the shining sun, only to really hear was tied down to his own bed. Fluttershy, Soarin, and Rainbow Dash were watching over him.

"How long was I out?" asked Thunderlane.

"Twelve hours," said Rainbow Dash as she Soarin untied, "You really needed some sleep."

"Thank you all very much for helping me come to my senses," said Thunderlane dusting himself off, "Now if you'll excuse me, I have a very important rendezvous with Starswirl the Bearded."

"Actually," said Fluttershy nervously, "I already called Flash and asked him to giver you the day off."

"What!?" said Thunderlane in disbelief.

"Thunderlane, we're worried about you,l said Fluttershy with concern, "You've just so high strung lately."

"It really is disturbing dude," said Soarin

"So," continued Fluttershy, "I've asked the calmest most laid back pony I know here, to help you relax."

"Who," asked Thunderlane looking confused.

Suddenly a look of pure terror crossed his face.

"No," he said in a panic.

"No!" said Rainbow Dash equally terrified.

"Yes," said Fluttershy matter of factly.

"Fluttershy," said Rainbow Dash getting right up into her friends face, "I'm serious! you call him up right now and tell him to cancel!"

"Who?" asked Soarin confused.

"Oh you'll know him!" Said Rainbow Dash in a panic, "You'll recognize him the moment you hear the words…"

"What up my ponies!" A loud voice called out.

Everypony turned to see Zephyr Breeze entering the room.

"Zephyr Breeze…" groaned Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane, both gritting their teeth.

"Zephyr Breeze, was kind enough to offer to help you relax on your day off," said Fluttershy smiling sheepishly.

"What up Thunderbird," said Zephyr flying over to Thunderland and punching him in the shoulder, "Still as much of a stiff as ever I see. How'd a stick in the mud like you ever get lucky enough to date my sister?"

Thunderlane growled, a red hot fury burning in the corner of his eye.

"…And Rainbow," said Zephyr floating over to the blue pony, "Still pining over me I see. What do you say you have a little rendezvous after I'm finished up with Thunderbird over here."

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes

"Um, what makes you think you can talk to her like I that?" said Soarin getting between the two ponies.

"Oh sorry, is she you'er filly?" asked Zephyr.

"No!" said both Rainbow Dash and Soarin abruptly, their faces turning red.

"Good, than she's available then," said Zephyr pushing Soarin aside to get close to Rainbow

"NOOOO!" shouted both Rainbow Dash and Soarin at once, blowing Zephyr back.

Thunderlane glared over at Zephyr Breeze, and then turned to look at Fluttershy.

"Fluttershy, may I speak to you for a moment."

Fluttershy and Thunderlane trotted over to a corner, while Zephyr breeze continued to try and Flirt with Rainbow Dash.

"Now Thunderlane," said Fluttershy, "I know your upset…"

"Upset is putting it lightly," said Thunderlane.

"…But I truly believe some one on one time with Zephyr Breeze would do you some good," she finished

"I don't want some one on one time with him sweetheart," stated Thunderlane, "I hate him with a red hot passion."

"Mmmmmm" mumbled Fluttershy staring Thunderlane in the eye.

"That's not going to work Fluttershy," said Thundrlane, "Not this time."

"Mmmmmm" mumbled Fluttershy staring harder.

"But I really, really don't want to," said Thunderlane starting to sweat.

"Mmmmmm" mumbled Fluttershy getting right up in his face.

"Ugh, fine I'll do it," sight Thunderlane, "Come on Zephyr Breeze."

"Later ponies," said Zephyr Breeze flying after Thunderlane, "Me and Captain Killjoy have some work to do."

Everypony watched as Thunderlane and Zephyr Breeze left the room.

"Is it okay that I hate him?" asked Soarin growling.

"That's fine," said Rainbow Dash, "Everypony hates him."

"Hey," said Fluttershy a bit rid, "I Don't and Neither do my parents."

"Asides from you and you're parents." RD replied.

Later Tunderlane and Zephyr arrived at "Ponyville Playhouse"

Thunderlane took one look at the massive entertainment center before him and rolled his eyes.

"Why are we here?" asked Thunderlane unenthused

"Because this dear Thunderbird," said Zephyr Breeze placeing an around the Stallion, "Is the Ponyville Playhouse, where there are arcade machines, mini golf, restaurants, a playhouse, a skate ramp, and a blowing alley."

Thunderlane just stared at Zephyr Breeze, "Just how old are you again?"

"The point is, it's the perfect place to chillax," said Zephry Breeze waving his hooves out in front of them, "By the way, could you pay the entry fee? I'm a little strapped for bits right now..."

Thunderlane rolled his eyes as the stallions entered the building. All around the full grown ponies, fillies and colts were running about the place playing the arcade machines, and munching on pizza.

"I hope nopony I know see's me here," thought Thunderlane.

"Hey Big Bro!"

Thunderlane turned to see Rumble, along with Tender Tapes, First Base, Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Button Mash Snips, Snails, Pipsqueak, Aunt Holiday, Auntie Lofty, Applejack, Rarity, Snap Shutter, Mane Allgood, Button Mash's mother Cream Heart, Snips and Snail's parents, and Pipsqueak's parents. They were at the bowling alley celebrating Pipsqueak's birthday.

"Why? Why do you hate me?" Thunderlane asked looking up at the ceiling.

"Hey Big Bro," said Rumble rushing over to his big brother, "What are you doing here?"

"Oh, hey Rumble," Thunderlane said trying not to blush, "Me? Here? Nothing, nothing at all."

"Say," the younger brother asked looking suspicious "Shouldn't you be working?"

"Well..." Thunderlane said, "I'm taking the day off."

After hearing that, there was a loud moment of silence over the entire room. Suddenly the entire birthday party burst out loud laughing. That is until Rumble saw the serious look on his brother's face, which said he was not joking.

"Oh, you're serious," Said Rumble.

The entire room suddenly went silent again,

"Well okay," said Rumble shuffling his hooves nervously, "But what about your work?"

"Don't worry about it kid , this Breeze is going to show him how to relax." said Zephyr putting a hood on the shoulder of an annoyed Thunderlane.

"Zephyr we didn't knew you'd be here?" Rarity said

"Oh, surprised Flutters with a visit. And I'm going to open up my own barber shop here in Tamplon." Zephyr said "But first, Buzz kill here need to get some maximum relaxing time and that's what this Breeze is going to do."

"Wonderful..." Thunderlane said

"Well you can come bowling with us." Rumble said.

"No that's not necessary..." stuttered Thunderlane trying to object.

"Of course it is," said Zephyr pushing Thunderlane forward, "This Breeze never give up a free chance to bowl."

"I will never forgive you for this," said Thunderlane glaring back at Zephyr.

Thunderlane picked up one of the balls and headed up to the bowling lane. He looked at the ball, and then looked out at the ten pins in front of him. He looked back at the ball, then back at the pins, back at the ball, back at the pins...

A full minute passed, and Thunderlane had yet to roll his ball down the lane. Then a second minute, and he was still standing there. Everypony atthe party was clearly confused, and clearly getting impatient for Thunderlane to finish his turn. One by one, the young foals at the party begin to give Zephyr Breeze the stink eye.

"Um, maybe I should go talk to him," said Zephyr smiling sheepishly.

He quickly rushed over to Thunderlane, still surveying the lane in front of him.

"Um Thunderbird," said Zephyr glancing back the glaring foals, "What's the holdup here?"

"Strategizing," said Thunderlane, keeping eye contact with the pins,

"Strat-a-what now?"

"I am determining the best strategy that will allow this ball to knock down all ten of those pins in a single roll," said Thunderlane with determination.

"Uhh, he always gets like this," said Rumble hoofing his forehead.

"I think you're missing the point here," said Zephyr Breeze eyeing the partygoers nervously, "This is supposed to be at game, for fun."

"How I am supposed to make sure that all ten of those pins go down at once,"

"Would ya'll hurry it up!" Shouted Applebloom, "It's my turn next!"

"But there are to many variable," mutter Thunderlane, "How am I supposed to determine the best path to victory?"

"Variable?" a voice cried out.

Everypony turned to view the stallion that was manning the bowling counter. He had a flowing blonde mane, and a mustache goatee combo.

"What are you talking about, Man? Just throw the ball straight!"

Thunderlane shrugged, and flew up into the air. He then launched his ball toward the pins like a shot fired out of a cannon. Everypony ducked as they heard a loud crash.

When the dust cleared not only were all ten pins blown away, but there was a huge hole in the wall where they had once stood.

"Strike!" said Thunderlane pumping his hoof.

"Oh boy," said Zephyr Breeze gritting his teeth.

Back at the palace

All the palace guards were gathered in a line down a long an unfamiliar hall. Flash Sentry and Soarin stood guard in full uniform, next to a door that they had never seen before.

One by one the guards lifted up their spears in Salute as the King approached, Star Swirl the Bearded and his apprentice close behind him.

"Commander Sentry" proclaimed the King as Flash Sentry saluted.

The King then glanced over to see Soarin.

"Where is Thunderlane?" asked the King whispering into Flash's ear.

"He took the day off," stated Flash.

All the guard in the hallway, and the King burst out loud laughing.

"Oh, your serious," said the King in disbelief.

The entire hallway suddenly grew silent. One of the guards coughed while another simply shuffled his hooves.

"Ahem," said Starswirl coughing into his hoof, "Well, we'd better get started then. Shall we Gentlecolts."

"Um, are you sure you want to do this in present company," said King Nightlight pointing a hoof behind the wizard.

Everypony glanced a Sunburst for a moment and then back at Starswirl.

"Anything you wish to discuss with me, you can discuss before my new apprentice," stated Starswirl proudly.

"That's what you said about your last apprentice," stated King Nightlight, matter-of-factly.

Sunburst looked down at the floor gloomily.

"Sunburst has more than proven himself worthy of my trust," said Starswirl placing a hoof on Sunburst's shoulder, "He will enter with us."

"Oh very well," said King Nightlight.

Starswirl the Bearded lowered his head as his horn began to glow. All of a sudden, a star shaped symbol appeared on the doors, causing them to magically open. The King led them all into a large rotunda, where six crystal chairs sat around a large table at the center. Suddenly the table began to glow as a large map of Equestria appeared atop it.

"Behold, the Cutie Map," proclaimed King Nightlight.

"Centuries ago," stated Star Swirl, "The Six Pillars and myself created this map and the castle that surrounded as a way to watch over all of Equestria, monitoring it for oncoming threats..."

"How come I've never seen this room before?" asked Flash confused.

"There was no need for you to see it until now," stated King Nightlight, "Which reminds me..."

He suddenly got straight into Flash Sentry's face.

"Don't you dare tell Twilight about this room Ever!" the king said with fire in his eyes.

"Got it," squeaked Flash.

"Well let's get started then," said Starswirl taking a seat.

Back at the "Ponyville Playhouse"

Everypony in the bowling alley, ducked as there was yet another crash. Zephyr Breeze stood beside Thunderlane, staring out the lanes with his muzzle hanging wide open.

"You demolished every single bowling lane in this place," he stated in disbelief.

The two Pegasus stares out at the other end of the bowling lanes. Where pins had once stood, there were now only ruins.

"That's good right?" asked Thunderlane nonchalantly.

Rumble stood beside his brother gritting his teeth. He slowly shook his head back and forth nervously.

"Man, I'm really sorry about this," said the bowling pony trotting over to Zephyr Breeze and Thunderlane, "but I'm gonna have to ask you to leave, Man."

"Okay, so bowling not your kinda breeze," said Zephyr nervously.

He and Thunderlane were riding up an escalator to second floor of the Ponyville Playhouse.

"Let's try mini golf. Anypony can breeze through mini-golf."

Zephyr led Thunderlane beneath a giant sign that read "Mini Golf". On the other side stood fields of green with windmills, volcanoes, and mechanical monsters all on display. Fillies and colts raced around the fields hitting colorful balls with putters.

"Seriously Zephyr," said Thunderlane staring at Zephyr Breeze in disbelief, "We're full grown ponies. What kind of full grown ponies do you know of that hang out a miniature golf course?

"Hi Thunderlane! Hi Zephyr Breeze!" cried out a perky voice.

Thunderlane turned to Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich trying to put there balls into a large clown mouth.

"Pinkie? Cheese? What are you doing here?" asked Thunderlane confused.

"We're always here for Mini-golf Monday," stated Pinkie Pie.

"Actually they changed that to Wednesday," said Cheese Sandwich.

"Then when's Theater Fun Thursday?" asked Pinkie Pie raising an eyebrow.

"That's on Friday now," said Cheese.

"Aw, pony feather," said Pinkie throwing down her putter.

"Look this couldn't be any more simple," said Zephyr Breeze grabbing a pair of putters and colorful balls, "You just hit the ball into the hole, avoiding the obstacles along the way. It's very relaxing."

Zephyr led Thunderlane to the first hole, dropping a blue ball in front of the stallion. Thunderlane looked down at ball, then at the windmill far in front of him and shrugged.

Thunderlane picked up his putter and swung it at the ball with full force. The ball went soaring toward the windmill at high speed ricocheting off of its top,ostensibly sail. Pinkie Pie and and Cheese ducked as the ball sailed towards them, only to bounce off the clowns nose. The ball then entered the mouth of a ceramic dragon, and ricocheted throughs it teeth like a giant pinball. By the time it exited the mouth all the teeth were shattered.

Zephyr and Thunderlane continued to watch as the ball sailed over the minigolf course bounce from obstacle to obstacle, and bringing untold destruction in its wake. By the time the ball finally stopped, the minigolf course was completely destroyed.

"Um Thunderbird," said Zephyr Breeze gritting his teeth "You were supposed to putt the ball not swing it."

"Man," said the bowling pony trotting over to Zephyr Breeze and Thunderlane again, "I'm really sorry about this, but I'm gonna have to ask you to leave again Man."

"Will you stop saying that!" exclaimed Zephyr Breeze exasperated, "I don't even know what a Man is!?"

Back at the palace

"As you can clearly see," said King Nighlight going over the Cutie Map, "King Sombra has been his been moving out all of his forces in the kingdoms surrounding Equestria."

It was true. All of across the cutie map King Sombra's symbol, a green eyeball with with purple smoke floated over numerous locations. Including but not limited to, the Dragon Kingdom, Griffonstone, Yakyakinstan, the Changeling Kingdom, Seaquestria, the White Tail Woods, Mount Aris, and more.

"I don't see what the big deal is," said Soarin, "It's not like he can actually invade any of these places."

Everypony in the room suddenly glared at Soarin.

"Well...What I meant was..." stuttered Soarin nervously, "the CoC has the Sombra's forces outnumbered a million to one. So how's he gonna invade."

"Hmmm," thought Flash Sentry looking down at the map. Over half of it was shaded was shaded in grey with the Storm King's symbol over it.

"The Storm King has more than enough territory to rival the CoC. What if the two of them are planning an alliance."

"That would be bad," said King Nightlight sweating bullets, "Very, very bad!"

"Ha, no chance of that happening," said Star Swirl brushing the thought off, "Those two hate each other with a red hot fury."

"Well what else could he be planning?" stated Flash frustrated.

"Um," a small voice spoke up.

Everpony turned to see Sunbrust fidgiting nervously.

"What about the key's of Tartarus," stated Sunburst, "Doesn't he technically have six of them?"

King Nightlight and Starswirl looked at each other for a moment, and then burst out loud laughing.

"Um, what's so funny," said Sunburst blushing nervously.

"Yeah, I don't get the joke either," said Flash raising an eyebrow.

"Sombra can't possibly get ahold of all seven keys," said King Nightlight wiping away a tear.

"That's right," said Starswirl triumphantly, "Because the pillars and myself hid it in a secure location where no creature can ever reach it."

"And where pray tell is that exactly," asked Soaring raising an eyebrow.

"Why it's...Oh no! I'm not falling for that one!" proclaimed King Nightlight furious.

"Wasn't the Pony of Shadows formerly a pillar?" asked Sunburst sheepishly.

Everypony turned to look back at Sunburst.

"I mean, couldn't he have told Sombra where the final key was.

King Nightlight scowled, "Yes Stygian was Starswirl's apprentice, just as are you are now..."

"But it doesn't matter," said stopping the King mid sentence, "because as I said, the key is in a location where no creature can ever reach it."

Sunburst fell silent as the other ponies continued to discuss what Sombra was planning. After a while, he silently slunk out of the room feeling unimportant.

Back in Tambelon

After several more failed attempts, Zephyr Breeze and Thunderlane had been kicked out of the Ponyville Playhouse. Zephyr was now leading Thunderlane towards the seashore, clearly losing his patience.

"Okay, the Beach!" said Zephyr thrusting out his hoof triumphantly.

In front of the two Stallions stood the Tambelon seashore where numerous were relaxing on the beach. Filly's and foals about the sand, some of them building sandcastles. Someponys were sunbathing under umbrellas, while others raced into the crashing waves with surfboards in hand.

"It is physically impossible not to relax at the beach, now move it," said Zephyr Breeze pushing Thunderlane forward.

He lead the stallion to a large beach umbrella, where Lyra and Bonbon were relaxing peacefully. Zephyr then placed to beach towel in front of the mares.

"Um we were sitting here," said Lyra matter of factly.

Zephyr turned his head ever so slowly twoards the two mares, giving them a look of blind fury.

"So moooooooooove," he said in a voice so silent it was almost a whisper.

The two mares dashed away in twin puffs of dust.

"You lay down here," said Zephyr Breeze pushing Thunderlane down on his blanket.

"I lay down here," he repeated lying down beside him, "Now relax!"

Zephyr Breeze laid with a smile on his face, as the warm sun beat down on him. The waves crashed into the background, as seagulls cawed in the skies. All was right with the world.

All of a sudden he heard a grunting sounding, forcing his bloodshot red eyes open.

He turn to see that Thunderlane was grunting.

"Oh what now!?" Zephyr screamed

"Oh I can't relax!" Thunderlane grunted "I can't stop thinking about what I could be doing at the castle...Like protecting Starswirl...Or talking to the king about of if Sombra sent a spy to..."

"AAAAAAAAGH!" shouted Zephry Breeze flying up into the air, "What in Equestria is wrong with you!? This was supposed to be easy! All you have to do is lay back and relax!"

"Why do you care so much if I relax or not?" asked Thunderlane.

"Because relaxing is the one thing that I'm good at!" Zephyr said exasperated, "If I can't even help somepony relax, then how can I..."

Zephyr stopped himself mid sentence, moping down at the ground. One look at his face and Thunderlane could instantly tell something was wrong.

"Um, Zephyr..." said Thunderlane picking himself up, "Is everything all right with you?"

Zephyr Breeze's jaw quivered trying hold back a tear.

"I didn't exactly come to Tambelon to vistit Flutters by choice,"I kind of got fired from my last job...And the job before that and the job before that...This was my last to prove to Fluttershy that I can be responsible, and not a total failure...And I couldn't even do that right."

Thunderlane isn't realized what he had done wrong. All day he had been thinking about himself not even thinking about what Zephyr might have been going through.

"Zephyr Breeze," said Thunderlane sympathetically, "I didn't realize."

"Forget it! This Breeze gives up!" Zephyr shouted and then flew off.

Thunderlane watched as Zephyr flew off into a distance, a sad look on his face. All of a sudden he heard a loud ruckus coming from down the beach. A large number of ponies were gathered around the pier at a Hay Burger stand.

"Okay! Yes! I understand! One at a time!" Thunderlane heard a familiar voice say.

Thunderlane flew over to see Sandbar struggling to hold back an angry mob of ponies.

"Sandbar," stated Thunderlane as he flew down to the young pony, "What are you doing here."

"Struggling to make some extra bits for my parents restaurant," said Sandbar pointing to where Thunderlane and Fluttershy had their first date.

"Just my luck! On today of all days!" The Manger said pacing "My fry cook burns his hoof and hasto go home early just in time for the lunch rush!"

"Excuse me sir." Thunderlane said "But I couldn't help over heared your problem."

"Yeah a big problem!" The Manager said in a huff, "Where am I going to find a new cook at this time of day!"

Thunderlane though for a moment.

"I could substitute if you want?" Thunderlane asked

"You are you an experience cook, Thunderlane?" asked Sandbar

"Well, no" Thunderlane said, "But, I've been cooking meals for my little brother for years.

"Well I'm Desperate, go ahead!" The Manger said pushed him in the kitchen and with Sandbar fallowing behind.

Down at the Ponyville Marketplace,

Sunburst was pacing pacing about the busy stands feeling sorry for himself. After being dismissed by the King, he had decided he needed to some air. All of a sudden he heard weeping from a nearby cider stand.

"Eh, young feller," said Granny Smith looking down at Zephyr Breeze, "Don't you think you've had enough?"

"I said give me another cider!" said Zephyr Breeze red in the face.

Granny Smith sighed, "I don' suppose your plannin' on payin' for any of this?"

"Um buddy," said Sunbrust coming over to comfort the strange Pegasus, "Are you alright?"

Zephyr Breeze looked up trying to force a grin, "This Breeze? Alright? Why this Breeze is always alright!"

Suddenly Zephyr Breeze slammed his head down on the stand weeping.

"Oh who am I kidding! I'm a failure and everypony know it! I don't know why I even try?! Nopony cares what I have to say anyway!"

Sunburst glanced over a the weeping Pegasus and then sighed.

"Nopony care what I have to say either," said Sunburst.

Zephry Breeze looked up wiping away his tears, "Really, why not?"

"They don't trust me," said Sunburst, "Let's just say I have a history..."

"Nopony trust's breeze either," said Zephyr scowling, "They just expect him to fail at everything he does."

Sunburst glanced over at Zephyr again, and then off at the castle in the distance.

"Well, regardless, I'm not giving up and neither should you," said Sunburst.

Sunburst pulled out a bit and flipped it over to Granny Smith.

"I've got his tab," said Sunburst.

Zephyr Breeze watched as the mysterious unicorn raced twoards the castle. He sat himself up, wiping away the rest of his tears.

"I'm not giving up either," said Zephyr Breeze.

He quickly lifted himself up from the stand and flew away.

"Wait!" shouted Granny Smith, "One bit ain't gonna cover yer whole tab! Grrrrr..."

Back at the beach,

Zephyr Breeze was soaring over the shoreline desperately searching for Thunderlane, but with no sign of the stallion in sight. All of a sudden, he heard a loud ruckus coming over from the pier.

"Thunder! Thunder! Thunder!" the ponies cheered as they crowded around the Hay Burger.

Zephyr Breeze couldn't believe his eyes. Standing behind the Hay Burger stand was Thunderlane reading over a list orders. He was flipping patties into the air with the slightest of ease, doing amazing tricks with his spatula. And there was an express on his face that Zephyr had never seen before...Relaxation.

"We're filling out orders faster than ever!" said Sandbar to the Manager enthusiastically.

"Thunderbird?" said Zephyr Breeze as he approached the the stand dumbfounded.

"Hey Zephyr," said Thunderlane with a smile, "I'd love to chat, but I'm kind of in the zone right now."

"This is..You are..What are you doing?" stuttered Zephyr at a loss for words.

"Relaxing," said Thunderlane as he caught a patty on his spatula.

"This is relaxing?!" stated Zephyr is disbelief.

"I guess I'm just the kind of pony who likes a project," Thunderlane shrugged.

Zephyr Breeze was at a loss for words.

"Listen Zephyr," said Thinderlane as began assembling a burger in front of him, "I know I was uncooperative today. It's just that...I worried too much sometimes ya know. If I don't keep myself busy, I don't know what to do with myself. And if I don't do my job, what would happen to the ponies I care about and love?"

"Well," Zephyr sighed "You do worry too much. And those ponies go you cares about, worry about you overworking yourself. It's basically just a lot of worrying ya know."

"I'm sorry for drving you crazy today," Thunderlane said "You always seemed so laid back and relaxed, it never occurred to be that your going through problems of your own. I really appreciate what you were trying to do, and you did help me relax."

The two stallion smiled at each other. Suddenly both their bellies started to growl.

"How about I treat us to some lunch?" Thunderlane said

"I'd like that." Zephyr said

Thunderlane passed Zephyr the hay burger he'd just assembled.

"So Thunderbird," Zephyr said as he took note that the black coated pegasus was finally relaxing, "Looks like you've finally got some relaxing time and who'd a thought it'd becooking?"

"Thanks," Thunderlane said, "And we got a free meal out of it."

Meanwhile back at the castle, in Cutie Map Room,

"So it's agreed," said Starswirl, "All we need to do is prepare, in case they start something," Starswirl said.

"Does King Sleipnir know about this?" King Nightlight asked

"As a matter fact he does," Starswirl said "He's already asked other Alicorns to stand watch in certain areas."

"Well in that case this meeting is Adjourned," said King Nightlight "Want to join us for lunch?"

"Indeed." Starswirl said as they were now exing the room.

Flash and Soarin stayed at the rear as Starswirl and King Nightlight left the room. When they were finally out of earshot, Flash turn to Soarin.

"Well that solved absolutely nothing," said Flash.

"I don't think Thunderlane missed much," said Soarin

All of a sudden Sunburst rushed into Map Room.

"I'm here! I'm here...Aw I missed it!" he stared

Flash could tell that Sunburst was disappointed.

"So Sunburst, you're Starswirl's new apprentice huh?" Flash asked "That must be great."

"Thanks," said Sunburst looking down, "And it is...But it's not as easy as it looks."

"I get the feeling is isn't," Flash said, "You know when we started working here, nobody listed to us either."

"And we didn't even have magic," Soarin said, "I'm Soarin by the way."

"And I'm Flash Sentry," Flash said. "And since you going to be around for a little while longer, we can give you a tour of Tambelon."

"Umm..." Sunburst thought for a moment, "Sure okay."

"But first some Lunch and..." Soarin didn't get to finish, as something tasty suddenly hit their noses.

"What is that!?" Soarin cheered

The group of stallions made it to the main diner hall, where they Thunderlane and Zephyr Breeze placing Hay Burger meals and drinks on the table. Twilight, Spike, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash were with them eating hay burger.

"Hey guys," Twilight said, "You should really try these burgers, Thunderlane made them."

"What?!" Flash and Soarin cried out in amazement.

"Yup, and that's not all. This Breeze was able to get him to relax," Zephyr said as he wrapped his hoof around who he thought was Rainbow Dash. "Pretty impressive huh Rainbows?"

"Cough," A voice said

Zephyr turn to see he was wrapping his hoof around an annoyed Soarin.

"Oh, ha...My bad Thorn," Zephyr said

"It's Soarin," The blue pegasus stallion said, but chose to ignore him and enjoy his burger.

"Wow! These are good!" Flash Sentry said

"And I can't believe you got Thunderlane to relax, Zephyr." Fluttershy said

"I can't believe Thunderlane managed to survive the day with him," said Rainbow Dash.

"Eh he's not so bad," said Thunderlane, "Once you get to know him."

Then two Pegasus winked at each other.

Meeting the family

Snow was falling down on Tambleon,

All around the city lights bright colorful lights were hung across buildings. Numerous ponies were trotting about carrying gifts and preparing for the big night. All of sudden Pinkie Pie burst out of a snow drift wearing colorful ornaments and ribbons, and began singing.

"It's the most ponyful time of the year"

"With the foals jingle belling" the CMC's raced by on a sled

"And everypony telling you be of good cheer" Cranky Doodle shook his hoof at them angrily

"It's the most ponyful time of the year" Pinkie suddenly gave cranky a big hug

"It's the hip-happiest season of all"

"With those hearth warming greetings and long happy meetings" Lyra Heartstrings was knocking on a door

"When friends come to call" Bonbon opened it and gave her friend a hug.

"It's the hip-happiest season of all" Pinkie Pie suddenly piped up between the two of them

Pinkie then began a montage of various she was taking apart in across Tambelon

"There'll be parties for hosting" Attending a party

"Marshmallows for toasting" Roasting a Marshmallow only for it to catch flames

"And caroling out in the snow" Joining a group of surprised caroler.

"There'll be scary ghost stories" Telling a spooky story to the Ponyville Boys

"And tales of the glories of" And finally sitting in a large crowd to watch a Pagent

"Hearth's Warmings long, long ago" We zoom in on the stage to see famous six founders of Equestria.

"It's the most ponyful time of the year"

"There'll be much mistltoeing" Two ponies kiss under the mistletoe

"And hearths will be glowing" A family of ponies gather around a warm hearth

"When loved ones are near" We zoom out to see Pinkie Pie watching from the window.

We look down on Pinkie Pie as she begins spinning around in the center of the Square

"It's the most ponyful time"

"Yes the most ponyful time"

"Oh the most ponyful time"

"Of the yeaaaaaaaaaaaar!"

Pinkie Pie leapt atop of a frozen fountain as she finished her song. All of the ponies around her in the busy square suddenly halted their shopping to stare at her confused.

"Pinkie Pie, you are so random," said Rainbow Dash.

Pinkie Pie turned to see Twilight, Spike, Rarity, Apple Jack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Flash, Soarin, Cheese, Thunderlane, Trouble Shoes, and Trender Hoof. All of them were wearing warm winter ware, and carrying large bushels of presents, primarily Spike.

"Sugarcube, you maybe halt the singing for a moment and help us lighten the load," asked Applejack.

"Sure thing," said Pinkie taking all of the presents from Spike.

The exhausted dragon collapsed in the snow, only for Twilight Sparkle place him on her back.

"I can't believe it's finally Hearth's Warming," said Spike perking up.

"What is Hearth's Warming Eve anyway," asked Trouble Shoes.

"You've never heard of Hearth's Warming Eve!?" everypony asked Trouble Shoes and Trender Hoof at once.

"We kind of grew up outside of Equestria," said Trender Hoof.

"Allow me to elucidate," said Pinkie Pie.

Cheese Sandwich quickly set up a large sheet behind a fruit stand as a curtain, while Pinkie Pie used several pony shaped lollipops as puppets.

"Once upon a time," said Pinkie Pie with a fake British accent, "long before the peaceful rule of Alicorns, and before ponies discovered our beautiful land of Equestria, ponies did not know harmony. It was a strange and dark time. A time when ponies were torn apart... by hatred!"

"Um, do you mind," growled the fruit vendor at the sight of the puppet show.

"Shhhh," hush Cheese Sandwich, "This is culture."

"During this frightful age," continued Pinkie Pie lifting up her lollipops, "each of the three tribes – the Pegasi, the unicorns, and the Earth ponies – cared not for what befell the other tribes, but only for their own welfare.

"In those troubled times," said Cheese taking the pegasus and earth pony lollipops, "as now, the Pegasi were the stewards of the weather. But they demanded something in return: food that could only be grown by the Earth ponies.

"The unicorns demanded the same," said Pinkie Pie lifting the unicorn lollipop, "in return for magically bringing forth day and night. And so, mistrust between the tribes festered until, one fateful day, it came to a boil. And what prompted the ponies to clash? 'Twas a mysterious blizzard that overtook the land and toppled the tribes' precarious peace."

Cheese sandwich started shaking down fake snow over the three lollipops, which Pinkie Pie made shiver.

"The normally industrious Earth ponies were unable to farm their land," Cheese continued, "The Earth ponies were freezing. The home of the Pegasi fared no better. The Pegasi were hungry. And the unicorns were freezing and hungry. Even the unicorns' magic was powerless against the storm. Each tribe blamed the others for their suffering, and the angrier everypony grew, the worse the blizzard became. And so it was decided that a grand summit would be held to figure out a way to cope with the blizzard."

"And so, the three leaders of the pony tribes set out to find a new land, a better land," continued Pinkie Pie, "Each leader encountered obstacles along the way, but eventually, they all arrived in a new and wondrous land. Nopony had ever seen paradise before."

"If they didn't come from Equestria then where did they come from?" asked Trender Hoof skeptically.

Pinkie Pie looked at Trender Hoof confused, What's that got to do with anything?"

"I'm just saying it seems like a pretty big hole in the plot.

"I...Well...You're missing the point!" stuttered Pinkie Pie angrily, "Soon mysterious blizzard followed them. And so the paradise that the ponies had found was soon lost, buried beneath a thick blanket of snow and hard feelings. Instead of beautiful, it was blizzardy. Instead of wonderful, it was wintry! Instead of spectacular, it was snow-tacular!

"And then the Titans attacked," said Chesse Sandwich doing shadow puppets of giant monsters from behind the curtain.

"Everypony was forced to seek shelter," said Pinkie Pie moving her terrified lollipops, "They searched high and low, but the only shelter for miles was a cold and desolate cave. And, of course, the three tribes had to share it, and nopony was too happy about that."

"As their arguing got worse so too did the blizzard," said Cheese, "And soon they realized the storm was caused by Windigos!"

"Windy-what nows?" asked Trouble Shoes.

"Windigos," exclaimed Twilight Sparkle, "They're winter spirits that feed off fighting and hatred. The more hate the spirit feels, the colder things become!

"And so the pony tribes realized it was their own fault. The three tribes had we brought the blizzard to their home by fighting and not trusting each other. And now it would this land, too.

"So the three pony tribes put their differences aside," said Pinkie pie, "All through the night, the ponies kept the fire of friendship alive by telling stories to one another and by singing songs, which of course became the winter carols that we all still sing today. Eventually, the warmth of the fire and singing and laughing reached the leaders, and their bodies began to thaw. And it even began to melt their hearts."

"The three leaders agreed to share the beautiful land," said Cheese, "and live in harmony ever afterwards. And together, they named their new land...Equestria!"

Trouble Shoes and Trender Hoof looked at each other skeptically.

"Well, that was interesting," said Trender Hoof.

Pinkie Pie's jaw dropped wide open, "You don't believe in the story!?"

"Pinkie," said Trender Hood, "I've been across all of Equestria and beyond; I've seen a lot of strange stuff. But I've never seen anything as crazy, as make-believe snow ponies that control the winter."

Pinkie Pie's lip began to quiver.

Rarity trotted over to Trender Hoof, and stomped down on his hoof with her own.

"Ergh," muttered Tender Hoof trying to hold in the pain.

"Never mind that," said Soarin wrapping his hoofs around Flash and Cheese, "It's Hearth's Warming Eve! A time for family! Time for me and my boys to hang out just like old times!

"Um actually," said Flash scratching his head nervously. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you this sooner, but I've already made plans with my family...Who may or not have gotten a royal invitation to spend Heath's Warming Eve in the castle with Twilight's Family."

"What?!" Soarin shouted his eyes nearly pooping out of his head, "but it's Hearth's Warming Eve! What about the three of us hanging out like the good old times?"

"Sorry Soar," Flash said sheepishly "But this is the first Hearth's Warming Eve I've to spend with my family in a long time. Growing up it was always just the three of us on the streets. I want a chance to spend this holiday with the ponies I care about most in the world."

"...And with me," said Twilight wrapping her hoof and his.

Soarin sighed, "I guess I understand. Well CS looks like it's just you and me tonight."

"Sorry I can't," said Cheese shrugging, "I already made plans to have hearths warming with Pinkie and her family.

"We're spending Hearth's Warming Eve on a Rock Farm!" cheered Pinkie Pie throwing confetti in the air.

"Whaat?!" asked Soarin in disbelief.

"You know, a Rock Farm," said Cheese, "A place where they farm rocks and are in the business of making statues and finding gems."

"Well okay," said Soarin getting nervous, he began to wrap a hoof around Thunderlane "Well I guess I'll just hang with my good buddy..."

"Gonna stop you right there Soarin," Thunderlane said with his hoof up, "Sorry, I already made plans to spend the holidays with Rumble, Fluttershy, her family...And even Discord."

"Discord!?" stated Soarin in disbelief, "Why are you spending the Holidays with Discord!?"

"That's for us to know, and you to never find out!" said Discord poofing into thins air.

The draconequus was wearing a wreath around his neck, and ornaments around his horn and antlers. He then grabbed ahold of Thunderlane and Fluttershy and poofed all three of them away.

Soarin was quickly becoming restless. He glanced around the streets looking for Somepony he hadn't asked yet. Suddenly he noticed Trouble Shoes and Trender.

"Hey buddies," said Soarin slinking up behind both of the stallions and placing his hooves around both of their shoulders "What are you guys doing tonight? Huh? Huh?"

"I'd say too little, too late Soarin," Trender said annoyed "Rarity already invited me to spend Hearth's Warming Eve with her."

"And the Apples already invited me over to their farm," Trouble Shoes said feeling sorry for the blue pegasus.

Soarin fell to the ground on his knees and reached his hooves over his head to heavens.

"NOOOOOOOOOO!" Soarin shouted, causing everypony in the market to turn and stare at him. He then had a long sigh and made a sad face tearing up. "Aw pony feathers. Looks like I'm all alone on this Hearths Warming."

"Aw come on Soarin," Flash said placing his hoof on his best friend's head "There's got to be somepony you can spend it with."

Twilight thought for a moment. Suddenly a right light bulb came off in her head.

"Hey you can spend it with Rainbow Dash's family!"

"What!?" Both Rainbow and Soarin shouted at the same time.

"NO!" Shouted Rainbow getting right up into Twilight's face, knocking Spike off her back.

"No, No,No! Soarin should not do that!"

"And why not?" Soarin asked looking offended.

"Ugh!" Rainbow said nervously. "It's just my parents are having their cloud repainted!"

"There having their cloud repainted," said Soarin raising an eyebrow, "They're repainting a cloud."

"Um, yeah," said Rainbow dash growing nervous as everypony stared at her,"And it's a very delicate operation, And I don't want to put them out, Because I love them very much, and we're really really close, but there's a reason I don't want you to spend time with them! They can be a little bit... embarrassing..."

"Really," said Soarin in disbelief, "I met them when we were trying out for the Wonderbolts, and they seem pretty nice...And hey, didn't they think I was your boyfriend?"

"First of all yes they thought that," said Rainbow Dash her face turning red "Second of all, Yeah, really! It would bring a whole world of crazy into my life if you came, and you'll definitely think they are weird!"

"Come on Rainbow Dash," said Applejack getting out in front of her, "You don't want Soarin to be lonesome during Hearths warming, do ya?"

Rainbow Dash looked at Soarin giving her a puppy dog look with his big green eyes. Cheese and Pinkie Pie were sprinkling snowflakes down on him much to her chagrin.

"Grrrrrrr, fine," sigh Rainbow Dash "But don't say I didn't warn you."

"Thanks Dash!" Soarin said hugging her tightly

She hugged decided to hug him back, despite her annoyance

"Alright everypony," said Twilight picking up Spike from the snow, "Let's all enjoy our hearth's warming!"

"Yeeeah!" everyone cheered.

Later at Tambleon castle

Flash Sentry and his family: Scootaloo, First Base, Tender Taps, A.K. Yearling (Aka Darning Do), Aunt Holiday, Auntie Lofty, Snap Shutter and Mane Allgood; were entering the castle through the main hall lead by Twilight and Spike. There they get to meet the royal family: King Nightlight, Queen Twilight Velvet, Princess Cadnace, Shining Armor, Flurry Heart, Granpa Big Star, Shooting Star and even Spic n Span, along with the castle staff.

"Happy Hearth's Warming to everypony," proclaimed Twilight, "and may both families have a holiday fun!"

"Snap Shutter and Mane Allgood," King Nightlight said, "Let me be the first to welcome you and your family to our humble home."

"Crikey!" Snap Shutter whistled. "Them's some fancy digs you got here."

"Snap!" Allgood said as she pumped his shoulder, they then bow to the royals, "Thank ever so much for inviting us your majesties."

"Oh none of the royal names," Queen Velvet said nonchalantly, "It's the holidays, just call us Nightlight and Velvet."

"And we are happy to have you here," King Nightlight said then turning to the castle's head of staff, "Spic N Span please show our guest to their rooms."

"Consider it done," Spic N Span said as he turned to the guest "If you would please all follow me."

Flash's family did so as the bell ponies took their luggages.

"Wow!" First Base and Tender Taps said as their eyes grew wide.

"Look at this place," First Base said, "We never get to see the inside of the castle."

"Or the baby!" Tender Taps said as he and First caught up to Princess Cadance.

They peeked upward so they can see Flurry Heart who was giggling in her mother's arms. She was happy to see them, But was even more happy to see Scootaloo. She flew up and landed on her back, huggging her.

"Guess Flurry missed you Scoots," The princess of love said.

"Well it's great to see her too," The little orange pegasus said as she hugged her back.

Flash then turned to Shining Armor "So Shining Armor how are things in the crystal empire?"

"Great," the alicorn prince replied "And I've heard you doing a great job as captain."

"Well yeah," Flash said, "By the way I've been meaning to asked you, why did you give me the job. I thought you didn't like me?"

"I didn't, But to be honest You're starting to grow on me," Shining Armor said then he winking at him "And so far you're doing an awesome job protecting Twilight."

"So you two are the royal grand fathers?" Lofty asked Grandpa Big Star and Shooting Star.

"Sure are," Big Star said, "but one thing for sure."

"The job was a royal pain," Shooting Star finish "DoHohoHohoHohl."

"Well those two are...lively," Holiday whispered to Lofty.

Princess Cadnace then turned to A. with stars in her eyes. "Oh I can't believe I get to met one of my favorite writers, I'm a big fan of you're books."

"Thanks Princess," Yearling replied surprised that yet another Alicorn was a fan of her work. "And it's nice to meet you too and it's even nicer to take a break from adventuring during the Holidays."

"Alright everypony here are you're rooms," said Spic N Span "Mr. Shutter and Allgood's room are on the 3rd door on right, First Base Tender Tapes, and Scootaloo's room are of the 2nd door on the left, Misses Holiday and Lofty's room are the 4th door on the right, Miss Yearling is on the 5th door on the left, princes Shining Armor Princess Cadance and Flurry heart's room is the first one of the right, Captain Flash's room is the 6th door on the left, and Misters Bight Star and Shooting Star's room is the 7th door on the right enjoy you're stay and dinner is at five." He finish as he hoofed them all keys to said rooms.

"This going to be an interesting hearth warming isn't it Spike?" Twilight said to the little Dragon.

"Sure is." Spike said

Meanwhile Outside of the castle on the Apple farm

It was filled with guess houses (created by the royal family) for the many members of the Apple clan. Trouble Shoes looked around as he was walks through the busy barnyard with a wagon filled with gifts. He couldn't believe how big Applejack's family is.

"Well I'll be," Trouble Shoes said in disbelief, "I never knew Aj's family was this big."

"Ah know!" A voice said as he looked down and saw none other then Apple Bloom with a big smile on her face, "But the bigger the family the more gifts we'll get!"

"Right," Trouble Shoes said with a smile, "But how many members does this family has?"

"Huh, Lost count." Granny said as she walked up to the large stallion with Big Mac, "But what matters is we get this family business a floating, and enjoying hearths warming together."

"Eyup." Big Mac agreed.

"Does that get stressful finding the right gift?" Trouble Shoes asked

"It does but it's worth it." AJ said at she walked up with her own gift and place it in the wagon.

Meanwhile in Cloudsdale

Fluttershy, Thunderlane, and Rumble (Who were teleported there by Discord , who himself when to get his hearth's warming costume) were flying thought the city and stopped at a little cloud, that was home to the Shy family. The yellow pegasus knocked on her parent's door, who then answered. Her father was a green stallion with a blue sweater vest, a light grey mane tails and mustache, and three clouds for his cutie mark. Mrs. Shy was a yellow Pegasus mare with glasses, a necklaces and her mane and tail are raspberry red, and three flowers for a cutie mark.

"Oh Fluttershy, We are so glad you've made it," Mrs. Shy said with a smile on her face.

"Oh yes and hello Thunderlane and Rumble good to see you two again," Mr. Shy said quietly.

"We're soglad to be here," Fluttershy said as they entered the cloud home.

"Yes thank you for inviting us," Thunderlane said

"Yeah and wait till you try my big bro's cooking you'll love it." Rumble said while licking his lips.

"Hey sis!" Shouted a voice. Everypony turned to see none other then Zephyr Breeze with a smile on his face. "And a very Hearths Warming to all of ya."

The green pegasus then wrapped his hooves over Fluttershy glad to see her and then turn to the Pegasi brothers.

"Heya Thunderbird, happy you and your little bro Tumble could come!" He said while ruffling Rumble's mane.

"It's Rumble," said the black mane colt annoyed.

"Glad to see you here Zephyr," Thunderlane replied then muttered under his breath "Can this get more annoying."

"Well isn't this a lovely family celebrating the holidays!" A voice said

Suddenly Discord appeared wearing a red suite with a red hat and a white fake beard. "Ho Ho Ho!"

"Yes it can," Thunderlane whispered again.

Meanwhile outside of Tambleon

We see Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich stepping off a train and onto the platform.

"So Pinkie, looking forward to meeting your family," Cheese said to the pink party, pony. "If they are anything like you, I'm sure they will be loads of fun!"

"They sure a Fun!" Pinkie said "And I love them a lot too!"

Cheese then looked around trying to find them, but the entire station seemed to be practically empty.

"So where are they?" Cheese said then pointed at a group of ponies. "Are they behind the glooming looking ponies over there?"

"They ARE the glooming looking ponies!" Pinkie cheered and then ran to them a gave them a group hugged.

Cheese's jaw nearly dropped. Her family wasn't at all what he was expecting and he did not know how to feel about it.

First there was Pinkie's father, Igneous Rock Pie; he was a Moderate amber earth pony with grey side burns and tail along with a black hat, his cutie mark is a rock pick. Her mother, Cloudy Quartz, was light grey mare with an opal mane and tail, she was also wearing glasses. Pinkie's oldest sister, Maud Pie was wearing a blue grey colored outfit, her mane and tail blue Grayish blue violet, her coat is Persian bluish gray, and her cutie mark is a rock. Next was an angry looking pony named Limestone Pie, her mane and tail where also grey, her coat was bluish grey, and her cutie mark was a lime with a couple of rocks. Finally there was a timid looking mare whose coat was also grey, her mane and tail were Dark cyanish gray, and she has three purple rocks as cutie mark fitting of her name, Marble Pie.

"Cheese meet my family!" Pinkie said as she grabbed his face and introduce both him and her family to one another. "Cheese this is my dad, And this my mom, and this is my sister Maud, and this my other sister Limestone, and this my other, other sister Marble Pie, and they're very, very, very happy to see you!"

Cheese was now dizzy, but quickly shook himself to normal...Well normal as he can be. "Umm, glad to meet you all."

"Surely thy name is not but Cheese Sandwich. I am called Igneous Rock Pie, son of Feldspar Granite Pie." said Igneous

"Thou shalt know me as Cloudy Quartz." Cloudy said

"May Providence favor thee well, and to thou comfort our humble homestead bring." Igneous said

"Umm..." said Cheese trying to say something from keeping himself from looking stupid. "They can call me...Cheese?"

"Cleary he's lost." Maud Pie said "Perhaps we should show our tradition."

"As long as he doesn't touch Holder's Boulder he'll be find." Limestone said as he glared at the yellow stallion.

"Ummm..." He then turn to Marble who was hiding behind Pinkie, "I you're sister afraid of me?"

"No she not she just worried that you won't like her." Pinkie said as she pulled Marble in front of her. "Come on Marble, Cheese does not bite!"

"MMMmmm." Was all Marble could say she was not much of a talker.

'Pinkie's family is weird and that's saying a lot coming from me.' Cheese thought to himself as he fallowed the Pies to their rock farm 'But best be keeping that to myself don't want to be rude. They're still better than my family ever was.'

Meanwhile at Tambleon train station

"You know Rarity I've never actually got to meet your parents," Trender Hoof said as he and Rarity made it there just in time.

"Oh my parents are...unique," Rarity said who then spotted them with her little sister Sweetie Belle, "And there they are! Mother, Father, Sweetie Belle!"

"Well, You made it Rarity." Her father, Hondo Flanks said, his coat much like his daughters have a white coat and a brown mane tail and mustache, and his cutie mark has three hoof balls. Her mother, Cookie Crumbles, had a pink coat and her mane and tail Grayish indigo and her cutie is three cookies.

"You made it sis!" Sweetie said as she ran to hug her.

"Of course I did darling, now come on." Rarity said as they all entered the train. "I can't wait to spend Hearths warming in Manehatten with my family and with Trender Hoof."

The stallion in question turn to the parents as he raise his hoof. "Umm Hi I'm Trender Hoof nice to finally meet you."

Hondo took the hoof and shook it very fast. "Nice to finally meet Trender Hoof, and glad you're going top join us this Hearth's warming!"

"I know and it's about time Rarity got herself a boy friend, construing all the dates she's been always fall flat," Cookie said but then turned to her daughter releasing what she had just, "Oh no offense diary."

Rarity both blush and rolled her eyes at the same time, trying to keep her temper. Trender Hoof was also blushing.

"Manehatten here we come!" Sweetie Belle cheered

Meanwhile back in Cloudsdale

We see Rainbow Dash and Soarin flying to the Dash family home.

"Cute place they got here," Soarin said.

"Yeah been here all my foalhood," Rainbow gulped.

She then walked up to the door swear beading down her brow. She reached up her hoof to knocked on it only to fake to motion,

"Welp no ponies home let's go!" said Rainbow Dash turning to leave

"Dash." Soarin growled rushing up to the door. "Come on."

The Pegasus stallion then knocked rather loudly.

Suddenly the door burst open blowing Soarin back. Dash's parents Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles appeared with huge smiles on their faces.

"Rainbow Dash you're here!" Bow said as he and Windy threw their hooves around the rainbow pegasus.

"Happy hearth's warming Dashie!" Windy said she then pulled away from her daughter and turn Soarin. "And oh I didn't knew you were bringing you boyfriend here too!"

"Mom his just a friend!" RD said while blushing. "And all of our friends were spending their hearth's warming families, and he didn't have anypony to spend it with, so I just invaded him here."

"Oh Rainbow Dash, you are not only awesome, but caring to!" Bow said as he teared up as he hugged her again and this time he pulled Soarin in to it too. "Happy Hearth Warming to you both!"

"Umm thanks Mr. Dash." Soarin said as he was giving Dash an 'okay you were right face'

Back at Tambleon

The families were now at the dinner table and after they were finish preying to King Sleipnir they enjoy their Hearths' warming fest. Flurry was enjoying the mass beans, The younger orange siblings were loving the broccoli and cheese, As Spike was having jem stones, and as for the older ponies were enjoying the food too.

"And that's how Allgood and me were able to rangled up that cragadile." Snap Shutter said before laughing out loud.

"Entreating," Twilight Velvet said as it reminded the time she when barrel riding at Neighagra Falls at their last family trip.

"Yes entreating." Said Nightlight as he didn't knew how to feel about this family, He knew they are nice folk but they were kind of odd with their adventures nature, But to be far they weren't oddest ponies they've met.

While that was happening Twilight's grand parents were talking to Holiday and Lofty.

"So let me get this straight," Holiday asked, "Every week you go to this Hummpet theater just to heckle actors and comedies?"

"Hey if you seen their acts you would too." Shooting Star said

"Trust us they have this one bear who tells bad jokes and dies on stage." Big Star agreed and the two elderly ponies laughing.

The two Aunts the turn to each other and started to laugh too as the retired royals were kind of funny themselves.

Then we see Princess Cadance and Shining Armor talking to A.K. Yearling.

"I'm really looking forward to you're next book," The princess of love said

"Thanks Cadance," Yearling replied while taking a bite off a Daffodil and daisy sandwich. "I was looking for an item called the griffon goblet."

"Sounds awesome," Shining Armor said

Back the Apple Farm

A wild hoedown was going on inside the Apple Family Barn. Mare and Stallions were do-si-doing as a wild country band played up on a stage. Applejack and TroubleShoes were off to the side help setting up a large spread of apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisps, apple crumbles, apple Brown Betty, and fresh apple cider.

"Are we really gonna need all this food Apple Jack?" said TroubleShoes skeptically.

"Actually," said Apple Jack tapping her chin, "I'm concerned we ain't brought enough..."

"Come on TroubleShoes," said Applebloom popping up beside the stallion, "Come meet the family!"

The little filly quickly pulled the big guy into the large crowd of ponies. One by one them began enthusiastically shaking his hoof.

"Ya'll have aleady met Braeburn," explained the Applebloom, "This is Apple Fritter, Apple Bumpkin, Red Gala, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp, Apple Cider, Apple Cobbler, Apple Honey, Apple Munchies, , Apple Dumpling, Apple Leaves, Half Baked Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Brown Betty, Gala Appleby, Jonagold, Lavender Fritter, Peachy Sweet, Perfect Pie, Aunt Orange, Uncle Orange, Turnip Truck, Auntie Applesauce, Apple Rose, and Goldie Delicious!"

"Hey, what about me?" a voice spoke up.

A small filly about Applebloom's age squeezed through the crowd. She had a caramel coat, and a droopy red mane, she had to blow on to keep out of her eyes.

"How could I forget ya'll," said Applebloom pulling the filly close, "This is Babs Seed, my favorite cousin the whole wide World!"

"Oooh, he's a big feller ain't he," said Goldie Delicious, a small yellow old mare with a tarp over her neck, and cutie mark of an apple tree.

"Leave it to Applejack to find a tall drink o' water like this," Apple Rose, slapping him on the rump.

She was a pale pink mare with glasses, and her mane done up in curls. Her Cutie mark was of an apple with roses.

"I don't trust him," said Auntie Applesauce getting right up in his face, "I don't like the look in his eyes. What are your intentions with our Applejack ya dang hoodlum!?"

The old green mare with a sprout on her rump was shouting so loudly that her false teeth nearly fell out of his mouth.

"Um, what now?" said TroubleShoes confused.

All of the sudden the band started up on a new song.

"Come on TroubleShoes," said Applebloom tugging on the Stallions arm, "Dance with us!"

"Uh, no.." said TroubleShoes shaking his head, "I got four left hooves."

"Oh no," said Babs Seed pushing helping to push him forward, " You're not getting out of this that easily!"

Up on the stage, the band of ponies began strumming their guitars to a swinging tune. At the front of the stage sat Granny Smith in her rocking chair, a large megaphone hanging in front of her. All of a sudden she began belting out a tune.

"Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock"

"Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring"

"Snowin' and blowin' up bushels of fun"

"Now the jingle hop has begun"

Apple Bloom and Babs pushed TroubleShoes forward through the crowd of dancing ponies. The two fillies began dancing along, as TroubleShoes tried to keep up,

"Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock"

"Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time"

"Dancin' and prancin' in Jingle Bell Square"

"In the frosty air"

All this dancin' and prancin' was making Trouble Shoes dizzy. Suddenly Apple Rose grabbed ahold of the Stallion's hooves, and began swinging him about the dance floor.

"What a bright time, it's the right time"

"To rock the night away"

"Jingle bell time is a swell time"

"To go glidin' in a one-pony sleigh"

All of a sudden Goldie Delicious cut in. Trouble Shoes found himself being tosses between the two old mares much to his chagrin.

"Giddy-up jingle ponies, pick up your feet"

"Jingle around the clock"

"Mix and a-mingle in the jinglin' beat"

"That's the jingle bell"

"That's the jingle bell rock"

As the song finished, Goldie Delicious gave TroubleShoes a quick spin, causing him to spiral out of control. TroubleShoes spun his way off of the dance floor and all the way over to Applejack. The ponies crashed into each other causing them both to fall to the floor with Applejack on top.

"We have to stop meeting like this," said Applejack looking down at TroubleShoes muzzle.

TroubleShoes blushed, chuckling nervously.

Back at Fluttershy's House

"...Seven rocks a-rolling"

"Six streamers streaming"

"Five cherrychangas!"

"Four pink ballon"

"Three cupcakes"

"Two party cannons"

"And a big bowl of ravioli!" sang Discord and Zephyr Breeze together, both off key.

"Oh it's so nice that Zephyr finally found a friend," said Mrs. Shy as she and her husband watched them sing from the couch.

"That's one way of putting it," said Rumble beside them, stuffing cotton in his ears.

Fluttershy smiled at the happy scene, and then went off to join Thunderlane in the kitchen.

"I'm hope Discord and Zephyr aren't stealing the show from you," the yellow pony said with a smile.

"It's fine," Thunderlane said busily working at the oven, "Nothing those two jokers can pull could possibly ruin this..."

Thunderlane stepped aside to present a grand Hearth's Warming spread. The was glazed oat loaf, fresh croissants, fresh cranberries, plumb pudding, scalloped potatoes, collared greens, and an entire tower of Hearth's Warming Eve cookies.

"Thunderlane," said Fluttershy blushing, "You really didn't have to go all out for my family.."

"Who said it's just for them," said Tunderlane, "This is my work of art. And now for the pièce de résistance..."

Thunderlane pulled one last item of the oven, still piping hot.

"Soufflé ala Thunder!"

"Should Old Acquaintance be forgot,

and never thought upon!" screeched Discord and Zephyr Breeze from the other room.

Thunderlane's soufflé suddenly fell flat, causing a deep scowl to come across his face. Fluttershy tried her best not to giggle.

Back at at the Pie Rock farm

Cheese was sitting at the Pie's family dinner table, where he was being served a bowl of rock soup much to his confusion.

"Humm..." Cheese said

He was trying to find words that wouldn't hurt the Pie's feelings, not wanting to risk breaking his teeth or hurting his stomach.

"This does look good...But..."

He then was nervously looking at the Pie's who were the only ones enjoying the food, But was also looking at their guest.

"Mister Sandwich if they don't like our food just say so," Said Cloudy and then a long pause came after and Cheese was sweating. "And I shell make you a pizza we've saved on a occasion like this."

"What?" Cheese asked

"Yes Mister Sandwich," Cloudy said "We've learn that our traditions won't please all of our guest, We've learn that the hard why last year were Pinkie bring one of her friends to our hearth's warming celebrations."

"Thes was a mess," Igneous agreed "But a memorable one."

"Ignoring the fact she was messing with Holder's Blonder." Limestone said

"Mm-hmm." Marble Pie agreed

"That had it's rocking moments but still special." Maud said

"And all Hearth's warming celebrations are special!" Pinkie said as she hugged her sisters. "Especially when you do it with family!"

After hearing that Cheese started to tear up a little, something the Pie's took notice.

"Cheese," Pinkie said "Are you okay?"

"Oh I'm if just happy to spin Hearth's Warming with a family with such a good close family." Cheese said while wiping away his tears, But only to fallow by anger and got off his chair. "Unlike others families who only think for themselves and pay you no mind and don't love and care about you a bit making them run away and knowing full well that they won't even miss you when you're gone!"

The sudden in raged party guard then stomped on the ground with his right hoof and was taking deep breaths, After a few minutes he then turn and looked at the Pies all with concerned looks on their eyes.

"I'm sorry I was getting personal," Cheese said as he sat back down.

"Wow I never seen you this angry Cheese." Pinkie said as she place a hoof on his shoulder.

"Again sorry Pinkie," Cheese said "I shouldn't have brought that up."

Then Igneous then trotted up to him and said "Thy seem troubled want to talk about it."

He then gestured the green eyed stallion to lay on the couch.

"I shall make you that Pizza," Cloudy said as she went to the kitchen.

"Okay," Cheese started wiped away a tear. "Can I have a soda too please."

"I'll get you one!" Pinkie said

Meanwhile in Manehatten

"Um Rarity," said Trender Hoof nervously, "When you said we were going to be spending Hearth's Warming Eve in Manehatten, this isn't quite what I had in mind.

Rarity and Trenderhoof were inside of a large stadium in the Middle of Manehatten. Thousands of cheering fans were all around them, the seats jam packed.

"Well what can I say," said Rarity nervously gritting her teeth, "My parents just love hoofball.."

"Hoofball! Hoofball! Hoofball!" cried out Hondo and Cookie holding up a large sign.

"Sometimes a bit too much," said Rarity rolling her eyes.

"Actually Rarity," said Trender Hoof clearing his throat, "I'm glad we're spending Hearth's Warming eve together. There's something that I've been meaning to tell you."

"Yes Trender Hoof," said Rarity her eyes glistening.

Trender Hoof took Rarity's hooves into his own.

"Rarity I..."

The fans all suddenly cheered loudly, drowning out Trender Hoof's voice.

"Rarity I'm trying to tell you that.." said Trenderhoof speaking up.

The fans cheered even louder as the home team scored.

"RARITY I..."

"RARITY!" shouted Sweetie Belle as she popped up beside to two ponies, "YOU'RE ON THE JUMBOTRON!"

The two ponies looked up at the giant screen, only to see themselves surrounded by a giant heart. The words, 'KISS CAM' were blink in bright red letters. Rarity and Trender Hoof slowly slunk down off camera, their faces turning bright pink.

Meanwhile at The Rainbow house

Soarin Rainbow Dash, and Bow Hothoof were in the leaving room.

"Painting on clouds?" Bow laughed out loud. "Every pony knows you can't paint on clouds!"

Soarin half laughed too but that the same times glared at Rainbow Dash (Who was blushing) for her little white lie.

"Well silly me," RD spoke out and was fake laughing. "And here I thought you always do that. But hey who's ready for Dinner?"

"I'll go check on you're mom," Said Bow as he left the room to the kitchen leaving the two alone.

"Painting the clouds huh?" Soarin he said to Rainbow when Bow was out of earshot.

"Sorry, but like I'd said they are embarrassing," RD said "Have you seen the pictures they took of me when I was a filly? They even have my first tooth that fell out."

"Well Dash I think I could named one parent who have issue with their kid." Soarin said with a deadpan voice.

"Who?" Rd asked

"Me duh, My dad runs a gang of mercenary flyers." Soarin said "Kidnapped you and try to destroy the Wonderbolts."

"Oh," RD said

Meanwhile back At Tambleon Castle the respective families have finished their dinner and were now watching the beloved holiday classic It's a Hearth's warming life.

"I wished I've never been born!" The actor in the movie said.

"Well you got your wish." Said the Guardian Pony.

"Well there's a lesson for ya," Snap said " Careful what you wish for."

"I can't get over that guy in the wheelchair," Said King Nightlight "He the meanest pony in town and his proud of that?"

"Greed can sometimes bring the worst out of ponies," Said Big Star "Like how my kidney stone brought the worst out of me."

"Or when when the doctor had to pass mine," Big Star stated and then the two elderly ponies burst out laughing.

"Too much information." A K Yearling said in disgust.

"Dad.." Velvet groaned then turn to their guest. "Sorry about them."

"Oh it's nothing really," Said Goodall as she giggled a little. "It was a little funny."

Flash then turn to Twilight and said "You know I was little worried that this would be a disaster construing our families are so different."

"Huh I was too," Twilight replied "I mean my family is royalty while yours..."

"Are adventures." Flash finish "Yeah."

"Well I guessed we'd didn't have anything to worry about." Twilight said

"AAAHHHHH!" Spic n span screamed as he was running though with Scootaloo Tander Tapes, and First Base were chasing him with snow balls and throwing them at the unicorn butler. "Help me!"

He then was hiding behind one of the statue in fear.

"How did they got snowballs in here?"

"Dragon fire magic." said a voice

Spic then turn to see Spike with a snowball in his claw and a sinister look in his eyes. "And you're going down."

"AAAHHHH!" Spic scream.

"And I think it's because it's Harth's Warming." Flash said as he stared at Twilight "Guess we should be lucky to have such great families."

"We sure do." Twilight happily replied as both of them started staring into each others eyes.

Flash's Vivid cornflower blue colored eyes meets Twilight's Moderate violet eyes.

"Oh Flash and Twilight," A voice said

The two then turn to Princess Cadance with a sly smile on her face as she pointed above them. "You two are standing under the mistletoe."

They then looked up and saw that it was true, and then looked back at each other with their faces turning red.

"Well...I...Know...It's tradition but I don't think we should because uncomfortable for you Twilight." Flash said in a nervous rant. "I...I...I...Mean come on I doubt she would..."

He was interrupted as soon as Twilight kissed him on the cheek, He then turn back to Twilight with was blushing on the face but was smiling. "I don't mind at all."

Flash said nothing as he fell face first into the ground and hearts were spinning around his head.

Twilight and Cadance then laugh at the whole thing.

Twilight then took this moment to wonder what her friends are doing on their family hearth's warming.

Meanwhile at the Apple Farm.

Dinner was ready and the Apples along with Trouble Shoes were at the table and Applebloom was the one to prayer and then as it was closed to the end, "And let us take the moment of silence of all the Apples that could be here.

That alone made the Apple siblings Granny, and a old Light amber Stallion with a pear for a cutie mark, made tearing up a little something Trouble Shoes notice despite him closing his eyes.

"In King Sleipnir name we prey ahmen," Apple bloom finished after wapping away a tear.

Then the Apples started to eat, But during the feast Trouble Shoes couldn't stop thinking about why Applejack Apple Bloom, Big Mac, Granny and the old stallion were tearing up during the prayer.

Later after dinner Trouble Shoes then notice that Applejack and the others were outside the barn looking at the stars and so he decided to go and see whats, whats.

"Hmmm...Mine if I join you?" Trouble Shoes asked them.

"Well sure." Applejack said as she allowed him to sit with them.

"Howdy," Trouble Shoes greet the old stallion. "I'm Trouble Shoes."

"I'm Grand Pear," Replied the elderly colt. "Nice to meet ya."

The two shook hooves and then they looked to the stars, then at that very moment they heard a sniff then looked down to see that Apple Bloom was tearing up again. Applejack then pulled her in for a hug knowing what she was crying about which made her tear up too. Trouble Shoes once again notice this and the finally deiced to asked.

"So, what's wrong aren't you guys happy it's Hearths Warming?"

"Well yes we are," AJ answered with a sad voice "It's just that...Well...Every Hearth's Warming we can't stop thinking about them."

"By them you mean your parents?" Trouble Shoes asked

He remembered how when AJ and her siblings lost their parents at a young age in a timber wolf attack and he pieced it together why they were so sad.

"Oh...I'm sorry you were are all thinking about that horrible day," Trouble Shoes said as he place his hoof around Applejack's shoulder, and then turn to Grand Pear and asked.

"One of them you're your kin weren't they?"

"Yes," Grand Pear said in a sad voice "My beautiful daughter Pear Butter, I've never got to see her again after I..."

Then there was a silence in the air.

"I disowned her." He continued "You see there was a feud between the Apples and the Pears, But neither me or Granny could do from stoping our kids from falling in love with one another, After they got marred that was the last time I've ever saw her, it was my greatest regret in my life."

"Mine too," Granny said as she holed out her hoof to him. "We've should have made peace long a go ya prickly old pear."

"That we should have ya Old Crab Apple," Grand Pear agreed taking the hoof and shook it.

Trouble Shoes looked up at the stars for a few a moments.

"You know I never even knew my parents..."

The Apples Ashe Grand Pear all turned to look at the huge Stallion.

"I grew up in an orphanage just outside of Equestria," he continued, "A little place called Kludgetown. TrenderHooves and Capper were to closest things I had tow family. As soon as we were teenagers we got out that place, and never looked back."

Applejack looked up at TroubleShoes with wide open eyes. The stallion was still looking up at the stars a smile on his face.

"Guess families come in all kinds...I suppose..."

All of sudden Applejack, Applebloom, Granny, Grand Pear, and even Big Mac all gathered together to hug TroubleShoes. The big stallion didn't even seem to notice, he was still looking up at the stars.

Back at Shy's house

Thunderlane was setting the table for Fluttershy's family, Rumble, and Discord.

"I'm sorry that the soufflé didn't turn out right, said Thunderlane glare and Discord and Zephyr

"Oh that's fine," said Mr. Shy, "It was just of you boys to treat us this year."

"This is awesome," said Rumble digging in, "We never get to have a big family get together like this!"

Fluttershy looked over at Thunderlane curiously.

"Well," said Thunderlane still setting the table, "Both of our parents our in the Canterlot Royal guard, so it's usually just Rumble and me. They tried to get time off for the holidays, but Equestria never sleeps."

Fluttery smiled sadly.

"Waaahahaahahaahaaaaaaaa!"

Discord suddenly burst out crying much to everypony's amazement.

"I'm sorry," the Draconequus said wiping away a tear, "It's just, I've never had a big family like this. I love all you ponies so much!"

"Hug me brother!" Zephyr Breeze cried out with tears in his eyes.

The two of them hugged each other tightly still weeping. Fluttershy and Thunderlane smiled at each other rolling their eyes.

Back at the Pie farm

Cheese was finishing his Pizza while sitting on the couch.

"Than after I ran away from home in Manehatten, I made my way to Tambleon," Cheese said as he took the last bite, "There I met my two best friends, Flash and Soarin, and the rest is history."

The Pies all looked him with sad faces, or what Cheese assumed were sad faces it was had to tell. finally a teary eyed Pinkie Pie spoke up.

"So you're family thinks humor and being funny is a waste of time?" Pinkie said as she place her hooves on his. "And they think that kind of thing makes ponies look foolish, and they only care about their work more then they do you?"

"In the words of Big Mac," Cheese said in a sad voice "Eyupe! "You always take shots from folks who just don't get the joke."

"Well you know what I think?!" Limestone said in a raged voice, "They're the foolish one! I may not be big on comedy myself, but one thing I do know it can be a good thing! It's their loss, cause they a great colt. I may have only know ya a day, but I know enough to see that you're a goof ball with a big heart, Just like our sister Pinkie."

"She right," Maud said in agreement. "You shouldn't let your parents decided what a waste of time is. Clearly you see it the same way Pinkie sees it."

"That's right! Parties are not only serous, most of all they're fun!" Pinkie said while picking Cheese up from the couch. "And think about it. You were able to get along without those stiff parents of yours just fine. Now you've got friends and family."

Pinki Pie gestured to herself and her family.

"And if thy wish Cheese Sandwitch, you can be a part of ours," Igneous said with a smile along with Cloudy

"Mm-hmm." Marble Pie agreed

Cheese tried to hold back his emotions as tears filled his eyes.

"I can't take this anymore!" He shouted as pulled the Pies in from a group hug, much to their shock.

"I love you Pie Family!"

Back in Manehatten...

The streets of Manehatten were lit up with Christmas lights and ponies enjoying the holidays. That is except for Honda and Cookie who were calling out for Rarity and Trender Hooves.

Hondo was searching through the bustling Manehatten Square, the light of the Jumbotron shining down on him.

"Rarity? Trender Hooves? Where are you ponies?"

Over at the Rockepony center, Cookie was trying to catch the attention of the ponies skating out on the ice rink.

"Begging your pardon, but have you seen...?" I'm sorry, have you noticed...?"

Hondo and Cookie continued their search over by the bay.

"Yo! Rarity! Trender Hooves! Ollie ollie oxen free!

The two ponies didn't even notice the Poly of Liberty off in the distance. From atop of its torch, two ponies peeked their heads up, still in hiding.

"Do you think they noticed us?" asked Trender Hooves concerned.

"No," said Rarity, "the coast is clear!"

"Thank goodness," said Trender Hooves wiping the sweat from his brow, "I thought we'd never lose them."

"Well that's my parents for you," stated Rarity, "Completely determined in every way."

"Much like somepony else I know," said Trender taking Rarity's hooves into his own.

"Oh, Trender," said Rarity blushing.

The two unicorns looked deeply into each other's eyes.

"Rarity," stated Trender Hooves, "their's something I've been meaning to tell you for a long time now."

"Yes sweet, sweet Trender Hooves," said Rarity dreamily.

"I...I..."

"Found you!" a voice shouted.

The two ponies turned to see Sweetie Belle in her warm winter coat.

"What are you doing up here," she asked looking down from atop the torch.

Rartiry and Trender Hooves sighed.

"Oh just enjoying the sights," Trender said placing Sweetie Belle atop of his back.

The three ponies all gazed out at the glittering Manehatten skyline.

Meanwhile back at the Rainbow's house

Soarin and Rainbow were still sitting on the couch of the living room.

"So Soarin," RD then asked, "I know about you dad but what about your mom."

A somber look came across Sorain's face, Then he looked at Rainbow knowing that he can't hide this secret either.

"She was awesome," he said with a sigh, "and very kind to me."

Then Rainbow smiled knowing Soarin had at least one good parent.

"But then Dad sold her to slavery..." Soarin finished

Rainbow Dash eyes whet wide hearing that.

"Wind Rider did what!?" Rainbow Dash almost shouted, "Why in the wide, wide world of Equestria would he do something like that!?"

"That's what I asked him when he did it," Soarin replied as he was tearing up,

Flashback to Manehatten, years ago...

At a dismal dinner table, Soarin still a colt, ate dinner with Winder Rider and a mare whose face was hidden. As he struggled to cut his haysteak, the mare picked it up and helped him cut it, much to the disapproval of Wind Rider.

In a vacant alleyway Soarin was training with several other young foals. A young Lingtning Dust attempted to fly through several swing punching bags, only for one to hit her, throwing her into a wall. Soarin watched in horror as Lightning Dust fell to the ground her wing broken. Wind Rider then gestured for Soarin to go through the same obstacle course, much to his panic. The facesless mare quickly grabbed ahold of Soarin's hoof and pulled him away from the obstacle course, infuriating Wind Rider.

Later on, Soarin watched form under a couch as Wind Rider and the faceless mare fought, a frightened look on his face. Eventually, the faceless mare stormed out of the room, leaving Wind Rider alone.

That eventing Soarin and Wind Rider sat at the dinner table. Soarin struggled to cut his haysteak by himself, while his father simply glared at him.

The next day, Soarin watched as Winder Rider shook hands with the mob boss Charlatan. The fat penguin handed Wind Rider a large stack of bills much to his glee. Wind Rider placed a wing around Soarin, as the colt watched two diamond dogs place reigns and a muzzle over the faceless mare. Soarin watched with tears in his eyes as Charlatan and the Diamond Dogs dragged the faceless mare away off into the mists of the city.

"Let this be a lesson Soarin," said Wind Rider, "This is what happens when you cross me..."

"That was the last straw," said Soarin sadly, "After that I left... and I never looked back."

Rainbow Dash then looked at him then back at the pictures of her and her parents. She looked back at Soarin and placed her wing around. The stallion looked back at her and saw a smile on her face, seeing her more gentle side.

"Hey," Rainbow said "I'm sorry that happened to your mom...And it makes your dad an even bigger jerk...But look where you are now! A hero, apart of the Wonderbolt reserve, and great stallion."

Then a surprised Rainbow did something Soarin nor anyponey else would have thought she would do. She kissed Soarin on the cheek.

Both were now blushing Rainbow could not believe what she just did.

"Ummm...Thanks." Soarin said as he touch his cheek. "I really appreciate that."

"Yeah well glad I could help," Rainbow said as she removed her wing while looking away. Suddenly she turned back to him with a glare. "And if you tell anypony, especially my parents, that I kissed you I'll beat the feathers off you!"

"Cough, cough," A voice said

They turned to see Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles carrying plates with food out to them Both with smug looks on their faces, and their eyebrows going up and down.

"Your secret is safe with us," Soarin said with his owismug look.

While Rainbow's face grew redder.

"Anywaaaaaay, dinner is ready!" Windy said with a cheer.

Up in the sky's Hearths warming music play

Princess Luna was watching over the night. Down below Equestria was at rest, everypony dreaming of things they'll look forward to tomorrow. Hours later Princess Celestia came to raise the sun. As the ponies woke up she began to sing.

"Have yourself a Happy Little Hearth's Warming"

At the Apple farm the family were having a bigger hoedown then last night. TroubleShoes was handing out gifts from his cart. Apple Bloom got her very own guitar, a new plow for Big Mac, a new rocking chair for Granny, and for Applejack a new lasso. Applejack then gave Trouble Shoes his gift, dumbbells TroubleShoes smiled sheepishly, a bit confused.

"Let your heart be light"

"Next year all our troubles will be out of sight"

At the Shy house Mr and Mrs. Shy hung up their new framed picture of them and their kids. Zephyr Breeze gave Fluttershy her gift, a necklace made of marbles with many different animals on them. She then gave her brother a new mane styling kit. Rumble was trying on his gift from his brother, his very own wonderbolt uniform, while Thunderlane read the cook book he had received.

"Have yourself a Happy Little Hearthswarming"

"Make the Yuletide gay"

At the rock farm the Pies and Cheese all got Rocks. Cheese was confused, until Pinkie opened it up revealing is was full of gems on the inside.

"Next year all our troubles will be miles away"

In Manehatten Sweetie Belle and her parents bumming around in their suite Manefair Hotel. Suddenly Rarity and Trenderhoof entered with their gifts, snazzy new outfits.

"Once again, as in olden days"

"Happy golden days of yore"

At the Rainbow's house Rainbow Dash had gotten the newest Derring Do book, While Soarin got a wing brusher. Bow Hothoof and Windy were adding their new Celestia and Luna plates to their collection.

"Faithful friends who are dear to us"

"Will be near to us once more"

In the Tambelon Castle Throne room king and queen got 'em scrap books of their kids growing up, and had the same gifts made for Snap Shutter and Mane Allgood. Aunt Hoilday and Lofty got new baking tools, and Grand pas Big Star and Shooting Star were giving new jokes books.

"Someday soon, we all will be together"

In the royal halls Scootaloo was zooming around a new scooter, while First Base practice with his new baseball bat, and Tender Tapes tried out his new new tap shoes...All to the chargrin of Spik'n'Span.

"If the fates allow"

Up in the nursery, Flurry Heart was hugging her new teddy bear. While she slept, Princess Cadance got her gift from Shining Armor, a new romance novel. She then secretly slipped her husband his gift. new things for his Ogres and Oubliettes game. He blushed in embarrassment.

"Until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow"

Up in the tower Spike was reading his mew issues of the Power Ponies, while Flash opened his first ever Hearth's Warming gift, his very own electric guitar. Twilight Sparkle smiled as she watched her friend enjoy their gifts. She then began writing a letter to Princess Celestia with her new grift, scrolls and a set of new quills.

"So have yourself a merry little Hearths warming now"

A heart in a hoof

Another holiday has came to Tambleon, and almost eveypony was with a significant other.

Aunts Lofty and Holiday were shopping for new treats. Big Mac was hanging out with the pink unicorn mare he meet in Appleloosa named Suagr Belle, who was showing him her bake goods. Bulk Biceps and Octiva were having tea, Quibble Pants and Clear Sky were reading a romance novel, Cranky and Metilda were trotting thought town together, Fancy Pants and Fleur de Lis were talking to each other about the next big thing, Lyra and Sweetie Drops were sitting at a beach togather, even Mr. and Mrs. Cake were trotting thought the park with their babies Pound and Pumpkin.

Meanwhile in Tambleon Castle a certain little purple Dragon was spiking along with flowers in his right claw. He was off to see Rarity, who was busy making a harts and Hooves day order for Twilight Velvet. As he headed down the hall, he crossed paths with Spic'n'Span who was cleaning the castle with some other servants.

"Spike where are you going?" Spic'n'Span asked already knowing answer.

"I'm going to see Rarity," Spike said blushing, hearts bubbling and poping around his head.

"Spike," Spic'n'Span sighed "I'd hate to be the one to hit you with a touch of reality, but I'd like to draw you're attention to the fact Rarity is a fully grown Pony. You on the other hoof are a young little dragon...Different Species...Different Age."

"Why does everypony keeps saying that," Spike replied in a huff, "We can make it work."

"And what makes you think that Rarity wants to make 'It' Work?" Spic asked specifying.

But Spike wasn't paying attention, he was already on his way to where Twilight's tower, where Rarity was hard at work.

"One day he'll learn," said Spic'n'Span rolling his eyes, "I just hope it won't be the hard way."

"Yuck!" a voiced cried out in Twilight's tower.

It was Rainbow Dash with the rest of the mane six in Twilight's balcony. She was watching from the balcony, at all the ponies below being lovely dovey with each other.

"All this mush," RD said with her hooves crossed, "And for what? One whole day for some 'very special some pony'!"

"Oh come now Rainbow Dash," Said Rarity who was working on the Queen's dress with Twilight helping help, "I for one love Hearts and Hooves Day. Being with handsome and charming gents, fabulous dresses, divine restaurants, and relaxing time with one another."

"Oh that's does sound good," Fluttershy agreed as she was brought Rarity some needles.

"Besides Rainbow," Applejack said with a smug look on her face. "Ain't you in that kind of thing with Soarin?"

"Will you guys stop talking about me and Soarin already!" Rainbow Dash shouted with a red blush on her face, "There's nothing between us!"

"Are you sure, because you kissed him on the cheek last Hearth's warming?" Pinkie Pie said popping up.

"Pinkie!" Rainbow Dash gasped in panic "How'd did you know that!?"

"I read the script," the pink pony exclaimed

Pinkie out a script which read 'The Meeting of the Families', the others looked at her in confusion.

"But oh how I love Hearts and Hooves Day!" Rarity proclaimed, "The romance, the flowers, the Glamor! It's something I've always wanted to do."

The rest of the mane 6 looked at her with a 'We already know about your somewhat secret romance with Treander hoof' look. Twilight was about to say something, when suddenly Spike entered the room with flowers in his claws.

"Hello Rarity," The little drake said trying to be a handsome guy, "Want to get some ice cream."

Rarity looked at Spike confused, completely oblivious to what was going on. The rest mane 6 tried desperately hide their laugher.

"Ummm, That does sound lovely Spike," said Rarity, "In fact why don't we all head to the Soda Parlor together. We could use a break after all this hard work, right girls?"

"Right!" They all said.

Spike sighed disappointedly.

"Oh," Twilight spoke out suddenly, "Before we do, I just remembered! Shining Armor, Cadance, and Flurry are coming over for a visit today!"

Meanwhile at the local Soda Parlor

Flash, Soarin, Cheese, and Thunderlane were enjoying some sodas.

"So guys," Sorain said as he pointed at his cheek., "Did I ever tell you about how Rainbow Dash kissed me on the cheek?"

"No, you've only been talking about it for the past three months," Thunderlane said with a hoof to the face.

"And didn't Rainbow Dash say she'd beat the feathers off you if you tell anyone?" Flash asked

"How do you know about that!?" asked Soarin spitting out his Soda.

"Oh Pinkie and I read the script and told everypony." Cheese said

The three stallions looked at Cheese confused.

"Speaking of everypony," said Thunderlane trying to change the subject, "Where are TroubleShoes and TrenderHoof?"

"Good morning boys!" a voice spoke up.

Everypony turned to see TrenderHoof and TroubleShoes entering the Soda Parlor. TrenderHoof was wearing an elegant dark blue tuxedo with golden cuff links. TroubleShoes even had a tie on.

"What are you two all dressed up for?" Soarin said snickering to himself.

"I'm glad you asked Soarin," TrenderHoof stated sitting beside the Pegasus as he pulled out a ring case, "Behold!"

A blinding light filled the Soda Parlor as TrenderHoof opened the case. When the stallions' eyesight cleared they say, a heart shaped gem framed in gold sitting with the case. It was deep red with swirls of blue all throughout it.

"This.." proclaimed TrenderHoof, "Is a saphire infused fire Ruby forged deep within the fires of Mt. Everhoof! And I intend to give it to Rarity for Hearts and Hooves Day!"

Flash, Soarin, Cheese, and Thunderlane stared in awe at the glimmer gem.

"How in Equestria did you get ahold of that!?" asked Soarin in disbelief.

"Don't question me on my methods," said TrenderHoof placing the gem in his coat pocket.

The four stallions looked at TrenderHoof, and then at each other gritting their teeth.

"TroubleShoes," said Flash looking over at the large Stallion, "You're not planning on getting Applejack anything fancy, are you?"

TroubleShoes reached under his hat and pulled a wrinkled flower.

"This was the flower that I gave to Applejack the first time we danced together, way back in Appleloosa," said TroubleShoes thinking back with a smile, "I was think'n about hav'n it bronzed..."

Flash looked back at the others sheepishly.

"So what are you four doing for Hearts and Hooves Day?" said TrenderHoof brushing off his hoof.

The four stallions looked at each other trying to come up with words.

"Well..." stuttered Flash, "Twilight and I have...Twilight and I have...Something...planned..."

"The thing is..." said Soarin, "I've kinda been caught up with the Wonderbolt's...and guard duty...and the Wonderbolt's...and guard duty..."

Err..Err..Err.." said Cheese flipping through the pages of a script, "There's nothing in this script about getting presents..."

"I was planning on baking Fluttershy a twelve course dinner..." said Thunderlane, beads of sweat dripping down his brow.

"Oh I see," said TrenderHoof with a cocky smile, "Well, you boys had a good run. Have a nice a Hearts and Hooves Day."

TroubleShoes shook his head at the four stallions as he followed TrenderHoof out the door. Flash, Cheese, Soarin, and Thunderlane all looked at each other in a panic.

Meanwhile at the train station

Twilight and her friends awaited the train that will bring Shining Armor Princess Cadence, and baby Flurry Heart. An hour later the train arrived with the royal family who stepped out onto the platform.

"Hey sis!" Shining Armor said while hugging Twilight.

"Shining Armor," Twilight said hugging her brother, then Cadence, then Flurry Heart, "Cadence and of course little Flurry, what brings you to Tamblon?"

"Well we just wanted to spend a romantic evening together," Cadence said while nuzzling Shining Armor. "And check up on the relationships here, Princess of Love you know."

"Oh we know," Twilight said, "Oh and Cadence thanks for lending me that book about this history of Hearts and Hooves day, Who'd a thought a love poison could case so much Chaos."

"I know right." Princess Cadence said.

"So me and my friends are going to get some ice cream would you like to join us?" Twilight asked

Shining Armor and Cadence glance each other nervously.

"Actually Twily, we have a little favor to ask you," said Shining Armor gritting his teeth.

"Yes?" asked Twilight a bit confused.

"Please watch Flurry Heart for us for a couple of hours," said Shining Armor thrusting the young filly forward, his eye twitching a bit, "Watching a baby Alicorns is a full time responsibility, and we really just need a romantic evening to ourselves!"

"Of Course," said Twilight taking Flurry Heat, "I don't mind, I love taking care of my niece."

The baby alicorn cheered as she held on the Aunt.

"Don't worry you two," chimed in Applejack, "We'll take good care of the little whipper snapper!"

"Thank you," said Shinging Armor down on his knees, "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

"Come on dearest," said Cadence tugging on her husband a bit embarrassed, "We'll be late for our lunch reservation."

Meanwhile back at the Soda Parlor.

Flash Soarin, Thunderlane, and Cheese were frozen in their seats, sweating buckets.

"So said Soarin," turning to Flash, "What were you planning on getting Twilight again?"

"You know as well as I do that I don't have anything planned!" said Flash Sentry thrusting a hoof in Soarin's chest.

"How would I know that?!" yelled Soarin, "I can't read minds! Thunderlane, what are you doing for Hearts and Hooves Day!?"

"Um I think he's busy," said Cheese.

"...Cook at 150 degrees...Stir well..." Thunderlane muttered to himself.

The Pegasus stallion was standing behind the counter suddenly cooking up a storm

"Um, sir," a waitress spoke up, "Only employees are allowed back here..."

"Well we have to do something!" said Soarin, "Otherwise, our relationships will end before they even begin!"

"I thought you weren't in a relationship!" said Flash furiously.

"Exactly!" said Soarin in a huff.

"Hey, I've got an idea!" said Cheese.

Flash and Soarin looked at the pony as he sat silently on his stool, not saying a word.

"Well?" said Soarin growing impatient, "What is it?!"

"Well I'm not telling you two, that's for sure," said Cheese.k

He then rushed out of the Soda Parlor leaving Flash and Soarin dumbfounded.

"That's it!" said Soarin flying off of his stool, "Every stallion for himself!"

He them out of the doorway in blind fury. Flash Sentry laid himself flat down on the counter feeling depressed.

"Well look who it is," sad a a familiar orange bearded unicorn stallion with glassess as entered the parlor.

"Sunburst," said Flash Sentry looking confused, "What are you doing here?"

"Master Starswirl asked me to stay to do some research," explained Sunburst, "What's on the menu here."

"Um, I think the kitchen's a little busy now," said Flash.

"Please sir," said another waitress as she two others tried to pull Thunderlane away from his mixing bowl, "Get back on the side of the counter!"

Flash sighed as he watched Thunderlane busy at work on his gift.

"What's the matter," asked Sunburst confused.

"Nothing," said Flash, "It's just Hearts and Hooves Day, and I have nothing to give Twilight."

"Princess Twilight," stated Sunburst, "What do you give to somepony who has everything?"

"I know," said Flash irritated, "I ran into the same exact problem on her birthday. All of my friends already know what they're doing for Heart's and Hooves Day, and I got nothing!"

Sunburst thought for a moment.

"You know what," said Sunburst, "I may have a way to help you."

"Really," said Flash perking up.

"Come on," said Sunburst leading Flash forward, "I'll take you to my lab."

Out on the streets of Tambelon

TrenderHoof was trotting twoards the castle with a swing in his step. All of a sudden two guff looking ponies popped out of the shadows in front of him blocking his path.

"Well, well, well," said a greyish brown stallion in a neckerchief and chief, "If it TrenderHoof..."

"Caballeron," said TrenderHoof smugly, "I was just about to head to Charlatan's and return his Fire Ruby to him."

"Liar," said Dr. Caballeron encircling the pony with his goon, "You know what Charlatan does to those who steal from him. I'm just luck I got you before he did."

TrenderHoof sighed, "So we're really doing this boys."

Caballeron's goons charged towards TrenderHoof, only for him to leap over both of their head. In then bounced onto a nearby awning and climbed up onto the roof.

"After him!" Shouted Caballeron.

Meanwhile at the blacksmith's

"I can have it bronzed alright," said Enbarr, "but it won't be ready until tomorrow."

"Tomorrow" said TroubleShoes confused.

"Tis Hearts and Hooves day," said Enbarr pointing to a large stack of flowers and other assorted gifts, "Everypony in Equestria is wanting something bronzed, and their all ask'n me to bronze 'em for them."

TroubleShoes thought for a moment.

"What if you had somepony to help you?" he asked.

Enbarr looked at the stallion skeptically.

"Do you have any experience in black smithing?"

"How do you think I got my cutie mark?" said TroubleShoes pointing the upside down horseshoe on his rump.

Back at the Soda Parlor

The mane six and Spike were entering through the doorway all of them were splattered with bit of fruits and vegetables.

"Well that was an interesting experience," said Rarity wiping Tomato out of her hair.

"So Flurry as a little trouble controlling her magic," said Twilight swaddling her niece, "Rainbow Dash was the one who insisted on taking the shortcut through the market place."

"I didn't even know fruit could fly that fast," said Pinkie Pie frazzled.

"Um, quick question," said Spike confused, "When did Thunderlane start working here."

Thunderlane was pouring root beer floats from behind the bar. Upon seeing Fluttershy he quickly ducked beneath the bar, and popped back up with a fake mustache.

"Good evening ladies," said Thunderlane with a fake French accent, "I am Garson, and I will be serving this afternoon."

The ponies all looked at each other confused.

"We said he could use our kitchen if he helped with the lunch rush," said a waitress pony passing them by.

"He seem nervous about something." Said Fluttershy

"Heart's and Hooves nerves I'd say." Said Rarity

"But at least we get some lunch." Rainbow said licking her lips.

Spike watched as the rest of the ponies began looking over the menu. Seeing that Rarity was unoccupied, the little Dragon decided to take his chance.

"Rarity," said Spike approaching the unicorn, "There's something I've been meaning to give you."

Spike pulled out the bouquet of flowers and handed them to Rarity.

"Happy Hearts and Hooves Day!"

"Why Spike," Rarity picking up the flowers, "How lovely."

Spike blushed brightly as his heart grew a flutter.

"Everpony, look what Spike got for us all," said Rarity levitating the flowers, "And there's enough for each of us."

Rarity then divided the flowers into six pairs, and floated a small bouquet to each of the main six. Spikes's heart nearly split in two as he slumped over in disappointment. The rest of the main six tried their best not to snicker.

As Twilight took note of how sad Spike was, a sudden thought popped into her head.

"Spike," said Twilight, "I'm having a little trouble with Flurry Heart. Do you think you could help me read her a story?"

"Okay," sighed Spike as he slumped over to her.

"Here we are," said Twilight levitating a book out of her bag, "It's a special book that Cadence lent to me. I'd read it myself, but I've got to hold on tightly to Flurry Heart here."

Spike sat down next to Twilight as she struggled to keep ahold her niece

"The Story of Hearts and Hooves Day," read Spike as he opened the book.

"Long ago, in the Crystal Empire, a charming Alicorn Prince fell in love with a beautiful Alicorn Princess."

The page opened to a colorful scene of the crystal empire, with noble Princess admiring his Princess from afar.

"But the Princess didn't return his affection, for her duty was to her kingdom and not to the Prince."

The page turned to show the Princess surrounded by Crystal ponies, while the Prince look sad off in the distance.

"Filled with desperate longing, the Prince created a love potion so that the two ponies could finally be together."

The page turned to see the Prince mixing up all kinds of colorful potions.

"From the moment the potion touched the two ponies lips they were instantly in love with one another."

The page turned to show the Prince and the Princess surround by a swirling pink heart.

"But as time moved on, the Love Potion turned into a Love Poison changing them both."

The page turned showing the Prince and the Princess growing sinister.

"Soon both their kingdoms fell into disarray, as the Alicorns became obsessed with each other and nothing else.

The page turned to show an image of the Crystal Empire falling into chaos.

"Desperate to return order one of the Crystal Ponies cast a spell to undo the curse, and separate the Prince and Princess forever."

The page turned to reveal an image of a pony separating the Prince and Princess with a burst of pink light.

"And so, Princess Amore, the Alicorn of the Love was born forever spreading true love across Equestria."

The final page is revealed showing Princess Amore spreading love across Equestria from the Crystal Empire. As Spike closed the book, Twilight Sparkel looked over at the young dragon eagerly.

"Spike, do you know what the moral of the story is?"

"Well duh," said Spike, "Obviously the Alicorn Prince shouldn't have spent so much time obsessing over somepony who clearly wasn't interested in him."

"Exactly," said Twilight with a proud smile.

"But that doesn't exactly help me with my problem with Rarity does it?" said Spike slamming the book on the table, "Flower's weren't enough, maybe I should try for something flashier."

Twilight groaned as Spike picked himself up from the table and laid her head down on the countertop.

Meanwhile

Sorain had decided to go see A.K. Yearling, who was staying in her cabin in the woods not too far from Tambelon. As he arrived at her front doors he began knocking desperately on it.

"Miss Yearling!" Soarin stated out loud, "It's me Soarin! You know, Flash's friend!"

A.K. Yearling open the her door revealing herself.

"Yes, what can I do for you?" She asked adjusting her glasses.

"Umm, Hi I need your help," Soarin stated "You remember Rainbow dash right? Well I need to get her a gift for Hearts and Hooves Day."

A.K. Yearling just gave him a look, Unamused.

"Do I look like Princess Cadence to you?" She asked

"I know but listen," Soarn said "Rainbow Dash has always been a too cool for school kind of mare...And she's not into any of those mushy gushy kind of gifts...So I need to give her an awesome gift that she would actually like...And she thinks you're one of the most awesome ponies in Equestria...So here I am!"

The book writer slash adventurer just gave the stallion a raised eyebrow, "Really?"

Soarin countered with his sad green eyes, making them as wide as weepy as possible.

Yearling finally sighed, "Okay,come in amd I'll help you."

"Yes!" The pegasus stallion said then zoomed into her cabin.

Meanwhile

In another of the woods, namely the Everfree Forest Cheese Sandwich was hold out a map while desperately searching for something.

"It should be around her somewhere," said Cheese scratching his head, "Where the brambles are thickest, there you will find

A pond beyond the most twisted of vines..."

Cheese suddenly tripped on a bramble and tumbled his way into an underground cavern. As he picked himself up, he saw a small and highly reflective pond right in front of him.

"That's it!" proclaimed Cheese, "The Mirror Pool!"

Cheese approached the edge of the water and began entering it.

"And into his own reflection he stared,

Yearning for one whose reflection he shared,

And solemnly sweared not to be scared

At the prospect of being doubly mared."

Suddenly a copy of Cheese popped out of the water.

"Although technically it would be doubly stallioned in this case," the double statled.

Four more copies popped out of the water, until they were all lined up five in row.

"Alright gentle-colts!" said Cheese standing before them, "Attention! Forward March! And boys...Let's have a repeat of last time!"

One by one, Cheese led his double out of the cavern marching forward.

"Hup, two! Hup, two! Hup, two! Hup, two!"

Meanwhile Sunbrust took Flash Sentry to the library.

"A book? Now why didn't I think of that?" Flash said sarcastically. "Twilight's Sparkle's only read and owned every book in the wide world of Equestria!"

"Sssshhhhhh!" Everypony in the library hissed.

"Oh, sorry," Flash whispered.

"Not exactly," said Sunburst "I'm not really supposed to show you this...Only the smartest Ponies in Equestria can enter this section."

Sunburst lead Flash a dark corner of Libray with to only some dusty cobweb covered books on the shelves. The Unicorn glanced around quickly to make sure no pony was looking and pulled on a book on one of the shelves. All of a sudden the bookshelf slid away reveal a secret passage to a hidden library. Flash was in awe of it, he knew if Twilight saw this she would faint.

"Welcome to the hidden archives." Sunburst said "All the libraries in Equestria has one, But again only the smartest can enter them."

Sunburst began leading Flash down a spiral staircase. Their only light was series of magic torches hanging from the walls.

"But why are we entering this one?" Flash asked.

"Well two reasons," Sunbrust replied "One, You have a very good reason to give a Princess a special gift. Two, I can kinda relate to you...I had feelings for a mare once and want to help you out."

"Uh, thanks." Flash said "So let's get her that book."

They entered into a large chamber with wall lined bookshelves. Each book had a cover more mysterious and foreboding than the last. At the center of the room, was a table with two large armchairs.

Flash pulled a mysterious green book off of the shelf.

"Do you think she would like this one," he said opening the book.

All of a sudden numerous green tentacles burst out of the pages terrifying flash.

"You have released the Ancient Lord Cthulhu!" A booming voice cried out, "Now I shall seek out my revenge on the Surface World!"

Sunburst slammed the book shut, "Don't open that one! Never open that one..."

Flash looked back over at the shelf at another mysterious book. All of a sudden, an eye opened on the cover and stared back at him.

Sunburst quickly cover Flash's eyes, "Don't even think of looking at that one."

"Are there any books in here that aren't terrifying," said Flash pushing Sunburst's hooves away.

Sunburst put his hoof on his on his chin and then an idea popped into his head.

"I've got the perfect book," he stated.

Sunburst trotted over to a bookshelf on the far wall, and pulled out a book with a scarlet cover. Flash read the cover as Sunburst handed it to him.

"The True History of Equestria: A Documentation of the Primordial Mysteries that the Alicorns Don't Want You to Know About..." read Flash raising an eyebrow.

"It contains information on some of the deepest mysteries of Equestria," stated Sunburst, "Techincally, I shouldn't even be showing this to you."

"Well Twilight does like mysteries," said Flash skeptically, "Plus she is and Alicorn herself...Okay, let's give it a shot.

Back in Tambelon,

TrenderHoof was racing about the rooftops trying to avoid Caballeron's goons. The stallion quickly knocked over a couple of barrels, quickly tripping two of them up.

"It is no use running TrenderHoof," shouted Caballeron, "We will catch you eventually."

TrenderHoof rolled his eyes as he continued to make his getaway.

"Hi TrenderHoof," a voice perked up.

TrenderHoof turned to see Cheese Sandwich trotting along right beside him.

"Whatcha up to?" Cheese asked, "Running away from those violent ne'er do well hoodlums, because you stole you Fire Ruby from Bods Charlatan as a Hearts and Hooves gift for Rarity, and now he's reigning down his unholy vengeance?"

"No we're throwing a Party.." all of a sudden TrenderHoof's sarcasm gave him an idea, "Actually we're throwing a Dance Party, and that guy was to challenge you to a Dance Off."

"A Dance Off!?" said Cheese with excitement, "Whoopeee!"

Cheese Sandwich quickly leapt over and tackled Charlatan throwing them both down to the streets below.

"Works every time," smirked TrenderHoof.

Back at the Blacksmiths

TroubleShoes carefully lifted a bronzed pair of horseshoes out of the molten liquid with a pair of tongs.

"I've never seen such delicate technique," said Enbarr in amazement, "Have you ever considered a career in the blacksmithing industry?"

"Matter of fact, I have," said TroubleShoes proudly.

"Sniff, that's truly beautiful," said Cheese Sandwich wiping his eyes with a hankie.

TroubleShoes and Enbarr looked at the sudden arrival in confusion.

"Um Cheese, what are you doing here," asked TroubleShoes confused.

"Well I heard you guys were making Hearts and Hooves Day gifts, and I wanted to help," said Cheese proudly.

"But aren't you supposed to be getting a gift for Pinkie Pie?" Asked Trouble Shoes confused.

"Who?" asked Cheese Sandwich.

Back in the Everfree Forest

"Okay boys, back from the top," said Cheese waving his conductor's Baton

A chorus line of Cheese Sandwiches' suddenly began singing while doing the can can.

"Happy Hearts and Hooves Day"

"From All of Us to You"

"We Wish had Somepomy"

"So we could Party Too, Hey!"

As the chorus line continued to sing, Cheese Sandwich suddenly noticed something funny.

"Wait a minute, aren't there more you guys than there were when we left the Mirror Pool."

The Cheese Clones stopped singing and looked at each other sheepishly. It was true, there were originally five, but there were at least a dozen.

"A few of us may have revisited the Mirror Pool a couple of times," said one of the clones tugging at his collar.

"Uh oh," said the original Cheese. "Well at least things can't get any worst."

He then turn back to the army at saw that his clones were gone.

"Double Uh oh..." Cheese said.

Meanwhile back at the Soda Parlor

Thunderlane was putting te final the final touches on his meal for Fluttershy.

"Almost done..." the Lieutend mumbled stirring a large pot of soup

"Aaaahhhh!" A scream was heard

The black coated Pegasus was so startled that he accidentally spilled, his soup all over the kitchen floor. He then proceeded to slip on the soup, and slid out the kitchen door, past the counter all the way to the booth where Twilight snd Flurry Heart were sitting.

"What in Sleipnir's name is going on here!?" Thunderlane shouted, his fake moustache falling off.

"Um," said Fluttershy at the counter, "I believe it has something to do with that."

Outside the window a Stampede of Cheese Sandwichs was storming down the street. The Mane Six, Spike, and Thunderlane watched in horror at the orange stallions running amuck and annoying everypony in the kingdom.

Thunderlane took to the skies, then pulled out his lion shield.

"Roooooaaaarrrrr!" The shield let out a mighty roar.

That alone got the attention of crazy herd of Cheese Sandwiches'.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Thunder ordered.

"We're clones of Cheese Sandwich!" One of the clones said.

"I can see that," Thunder said as he facehoofed. "But how?"

"Hmmmm," said Pinkie Pie popoing up beside Thunderlane, "Seem's like to a visit to the old Mirror Pool. Making copies of yourself always sounds like a great idea, but before you know it your locked in a room with fifty Pinkie Pie's watching paint dry."

"But why?!" exclaimed Thunderlane more exasperated then ever.

"Oh well the OG Cheese wanted to surprise Pinkie Pie with a Hearth and Hooves day orchestra!" said the Clone. "But he couldn't get an orchestra...so he went to the Mirror Pool to make clones of himself. But we decided Orchestras are boring. So we rebeled against our master in a cliche fashion. Now we will spread fun and laughter across the whoke kingdom! BwaHaHaaHAHAAAAAA!"

Thunderlane just flew there for a few minutes, dumbfounded.

"Cheese wanted to surprise me with an Orchestra?" said Pinkie Pie floating beside him, "Awwwww, that's so sweet."

Thunderlane looked at Pinkie Pie, and then up at balloons helping her float next to him. He the. blew on them causing her to float away.

"What am I going to do with that guy?" the Stalllion said facehoofing again, "Okay I want you guys too..."

He then saw that Cheese clones were gone no doubt still running around about Tambelon.

"OH COME ON!" He shouted.

Meanwhile back at the Cabin

Soarin was with Daring Do, looking though her boxs of past adventures.

"Hmmm...Let's see..." Daring Do said as she was looking an old chest.

Soarin was examining a strange blue statue of what looked like a two headed dog.

"Ah here we go!" Daring shouted

Soarin was so starteled, that he nearly dropped the sapphire statue.

"What's ya got?" Soarin asked smiling sheepishly.

Daring pulled out a gold necklace with a large jewel at it's cener, it was Rainbow colored.

"Cool," Soarn said "But what is it?"

"It's the Prismatic Jewel of Iris," Daring said "Areion before he became an Alicorn onced used it to send messages to lands beyond Equestria. It really comes in handy when you news to send important items to others when need be."

"Nice," Soarin said, "and it's perfect for RD."

"It sure is," Daing Do agreed, "and it's from one of my best books. I bet she'll have read."

"Keep away!" Cheese shouted popping up out of nowhere.

He quickly snatches took the jewel from Daring Do's hooves

"What the?" Soarin said "Cheese I'm not in the mood for games. Give me back that jewel!"

Cheese these toss the necklace to another Cheese who popped up from a pile of boxes, much to Soarin's shock.

"Again What The!?" Soarin shouted "Why are there two of you?"

"No silly there's not two of us." One of the Cheese's said only for more clones to enter Daring Do's canin, "More like 2000!"

"Fun Fun, Fun, Fun, Fun, Fun,"

Meanwhile back at the library

Flash and Sunburst were now leaving building with the book in Flash's saddle bag.

"Hey Sunburst thanks again pal." Flash said

"Now problem." Sunburst replied

"Hey Flash!" Cheese said suddenly appeared behind, "Maybe you can used sone music with you gift to Twilight!"

Then Cheese along with some other clones started to play music.

"Baby you got what I need!" They were sing as Flash and Sunburst just stood there dumbfounded.

"What is going on right now?" Flash asked

"Mirror Pool!" The Cheese clones said in unison.

"Mirror Pool!?" said Sunburst in a panic, "You're not supposed to use the Mirror Pool! The copies always rise up against you!"

"Yeah, I kinda figured that out..." said Flash looking around.

All across Tambelon the Cheese clones were causing chaos. In the park Lyra was give BonBon a box of chocolates, only for a Cheese clone to swoop in between them and swallow them whole. Elsewhere three Cheese clones were in a tug of war with AppleBloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.

"You're not getting my Scooter!" shouted Scootaloo.

At Tambelon Castle, Spik'n'Span had just finished dusting and mopping the royal hall.

"Ahhh, perfection," the butler sighed.

All of a sudden an entire swarm off Cheese sandwiches appeared swinging from the chandeliers, and launchung cannons of confetti and streamers.

"WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!" Shouted Spik'n'Span to the hight heavens.

In a nearby movie theater, Shining Armor and Cadance were enjoying a romantic flick. The two alicorns looked deeply into each other's eyes, amd were about to kiss, only to be interrupted by the sounds of laughter. The theater which had been almost empty was now full of Cheese clones laughing snd munching on popcorn.

"The crowd's turning ugly," said Big Star from up in the balcony.

"The crowd showed up ugly," said Cheese Sandwich popping up between him and Shooting Star.

"DohoHohoHohoHoo!" The three stallions laughed together.

Back out in the panicked streets of Tambelon, TrenderHoof was still being chased by Cabelleron and his henchponies. As TrenderHoof tried to make his escape, he found himself cornerd, his back to a wall.

"Aha!" shouted Canelleron confidenty, "We've got you now!"

"FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!FUN!"

All of a sudden an entire stampede of Cheese Sandwiches charged down the street trampling over Cabelleron and his henchponies. When the dust cleared, TrenderHoof saw the vile villains laying dazed and unconious in front of him

"Welp, I don't know what happened," said TrenderHoof, "but I'm glad it did!"

Out in the town square and the Mane Six and Spike raced to ascess the situation with Flurry Heart in tow. All around the ponies, panicked as Cheese Clones danced around, playing accordions, and naturally driving them all crazy.

"What's going on!?" asked Soarin flying down to join them.

"Welp," said TroubleShoes trodging up to join them, "It's pretty clear to me that ol' Cheese Sandwich used the Secret of the Mirror Pool, to make copies of himself, all so he coul impress Pinkie Pie...Only fo it to backfire on him horribly."

The rest of the ponies all looked at Troubleshoes in disbelief.

"Enbarr explained it to me on the way here," said TroubleShoes.

With a loud zooming sound, Thunderlane suddenly crashed in to the ground with the rest of the ponies.

"We need backup!" he stated, "Where the heck is our Captain of the Guard"

"I'm here," said Flash racing up to join the rest of them, " Nopony panic! Nopony panic..."

Flash suddenly trapped and fell over face first. As he did the book fell out of his satchel and slid it's way, all the way to Twilight.

"The True History of Equestria:" read Twilight as she levitated the book up to her, "A Documentation of the Primordial Mysteries that the Alicorns Don't Want You to Know About?!"

"Um, look I can explain..." Flash said in a panic.

"This is perfet!" said Twilight.

"It is?" said Flash confused.

"Of course," said Twilight, "A book as ancient as this is bount to have some information on the secret of the Mirror Pool!"

Twilight magicly flipped her way throuth the pages, looking for the spell that would assist them.

"Aha!" Said Twilight, "Secret of the Mirror Pool! Hmhmhmm...Oh ponlyfeathers...We need something called Prismatic Jewel of Iris to banish them all."

"Umm..." said Sloarin nervously flapping downward, " Would this do?"

Soarin sheepishly pulled the golden neclace with the rainbow jewel.

"Soarin," Rainbow Dash asked suspiciouly, "Why do you the sacred artifact from Daring Do No.17?"

"No reason," said Soarin in a cold sweat.

Twilight Sparkle levitated the item to herself, "There's one last thing. We need to know which one is the real Cheese. Otherwise we might accidentally get rid of him too."

"Soldier's!" Thunderlane shouted picking himself up, "Which one of you is the real Cheese Sandwich?"

"I am!" All the Cheese copies shouted at once.

"What the.. All Right!" said Thunderlane at his wits end, "The real Cheese Sandwich is on latrine duty for a month, with double shifts, and NO FUN WHATSOEVER!"

All of the Cheese clones suddenly backed away in a panic pointing their hooves at a single cheese trying to slink away unnoticed.

"He did it!" the clones shouted.

"Hehe.. Hi guys," said Cheese waving nervously.

Twilight Sparkle rolled her eyes. Her horn then began to glow the Jewel of Iris floating floating in front of her. All of a sudden a great burst of light blasted from the neclace filling the air above them.

"KAAAAWWWWW!" a great brilliant peacock made out of a thousand colors called out as it burst into the skies.

The peacock swooped down onto the city of Tambelon, and sucked up the cheese clones one by one. It made it's way to the park between Lyra and BonBon, then past the crusaders who fell back in surprise. It sucked up all the Cheeses in the throne room and the movie theater surpring all ponies who saw it. Finally, the glimmering peacock of light made it's way back to the Everfree forest, passing Daring Do's cabin, and diving straight into the Mirror Pool.

"Whoa, awesome!" said Rainbow Dash.

"Huh, so that's Iris," said Soarin.

With all the Cheese copies gone, Thunderlane charged at the real Cheese Sandwich and grabbed him by the collar.

"What is the meaning of this!?" He shouted in Cheese's face.

"Um, I was trying Happy Hearts and Hooves Day gift for Pinke," Cheese said with a shrug.

"I know that!" said Thunderlane, "But why would you ever do something so reckless!?"

"While asking question," said Fluttershy approaching Thunderlane, "Why were you pretending to be a chef at the Soda Parlor.

"What..Um..That is.." Thunderlane said stuttering.

"And how did you happen to get ahold of the Prismatic Jewel of Iris," asked Rainbow Dash jabbing a hoof into Soarin.

"Hehe...Funny story," Soarain chuckled nervoulsy.

"...And how did you get ahold of this book," said Twilight curiously, "I've been looking for it for ages and have never been able to find it."

Flash sweated, "Okay, here's the thing...Tredner Hooves and Troubleshoes were bragging about the gifts they were going to get Rarity and Applejack..."

"So we realized we needed to get gifts too!" chimed in Soarin.

"The best gifts in all of Equestria!" Proclaimed Cheese Sandwich still in Thunderlane's hooves.

"Ummmm," said Thunderlane trying to come up with something, "Happy Hearts and Hooves day?"

Everypony looked at the four stallions with a mixture of disbelief and confusion.

"Ya'll are idiots," said Troubleshoes finally, "TrenderHoof and I didn't get gifts to show ya'll up, we got 'em for our fillies cause their special."

Troubleshoes pulled Applejack close him as he continued,

"Hearts and Hooves Day ain't about doin' anything big and fancy. It's about showin' that Special Somepony just how much you care about them."

Flash, Soarin, Cheese, and Thunderlane all looked at each other sheepishly.

"Yeah, I guess we all got carried away," Said Soarin rubbing the back of his head.

"Speak for yourself," said Thunderlane dropping Cheese Sandwich, "I just wanted to make Fluttershy a nice dinner."

"I'm sorry thing got so out of control Twilight," Flash said blushing.

Twilight smiled an gave him a peck on the cheek, "Your lucky your cute.

Later that night Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich were sitting in the park together.

"Sorry I almost destroyed all of Tambelon," said Cheese.

"I'm sorry your on Latrine duty for a month," said Pinkie Pie.

"And now," said Cheese Sandwich pulling out an accordian, "I'm going to do what I should have done in the first place."

"This is the night," sang Cheese as he played

"It's a beautiful night"

"And we call it Hearts and Hooves Day"

Elsewhere Shining Armor and Cadence were tucking Flurry Hear in for bed.

"Look at the skies"

"They have stars in their eyes"

Applejack looked sat on a hill with Troubleshoes looking up at the stars, the bronzed flower pinned to her hat.

"On this lovely bella notte"

Up above them Soarin and Rainbow Dash flew up in the skies together.

"So take the love of your loved one"

Fluttershy and Thunderlane werenslurping at opposite ends of a plate of spaghetti, slowly reaching each other as they ate opposite ends of the same noodle.

"You'll need it about this time"

In his study Sunburst was looking at a photograh of himself as a colt sith two familiar looking fillies.

"To keep from falling like a star"

At he cabin Daring Do opened the door to find a box of chocolates,

"When you make that dizzy climb"

Of in the bushes Cabelleron was hiding, hoping desperately that she wouldn't see her.

"For this is the night"

"And the heavens are right"

Back atop of the Castle, Twilight and Flash Sentry were reading The True History of Equestria together, snuggling up close.

"On this lovely bella Hearts and Hooves Day"

Down in the castle halls below, Spike was slowly making his way to Rarity's room, carrying a Fire Ruby.

"Well, if this doesn't work," said Spike, "Nothing will.."

"Oh TrenderHoof, it's lovely," suddenly heard the voice of Rarity say.

Spike opened the door to her room just a creak to see what was on. Inside TrenderHood had just given Rarity his Saphire infused Fire Ruby, mich to delight.

"I got it just for you Rarity," TrenderHoof said,

Spike watched in horror as TrenderHoof reached in to kiss Rarity. The yound dragon dropped the Fire Ruby his heart shattering into a million pieces.

"I was afraid this would happen," said Spik'n'Span watching from behind.

Cheesy Parents

It was another day in the kingdom of Tamplon. We see Cheese Sandwich still on latrine duty, after what happened last Hearts and Hooves Day.

"Okay, only three days left," Cheese said. "And I can go back to having fun."

"Hey Cheese," Sorain said, flying down to him, "You have a letter here."

"Ooh, fan mail for one of my parody songs?" Cheese asked

Sorain looked at him confused, then just shrugged and gave him his mail.

Cheese then open the litter and read out loud, "Dear son, We've heard about what you've been up too since, you left... The family and I are coming to Tambelon on bussiness, so we've decided to pay you a vist see you tomorrow...Signed, Fuddy duddy."

A cold shiver down Cheese's spines as he stood frozen in place. A painted smile, was stuck on his face as he stood silenly, his eye twitching.

"Um Cheese," Soarin asked with conerm, "You, okay buddy?"

"Oh wonderful!" Cheese said in denial, "Now they want to visit top see how I'm doing? Now they suddenly they care? Only took them about 10 years!?"

Sorain was shocked as he never seen his friend this angry. Cheese was usually a happy go lucky kind of stallion. Now, he was clearly angrier then Thunderlane, the time they pranked him with that jock strap incident last year. Soarin had to dig many holes on that day.

But back to Cheese...Soarin could clearly tell his friend was upset, event though he tried to his it. He knew Cheese didn't like to talk about his family, or his life back in manehatten and undetood is was best not talk to talk to him about it. Now his parents were coming back into his life, and needed to think of a way to help Cheese.

The next day at the Soda Parlor

Soarin was telling the rest of his friends of what was going on.

"So everyponies agreed," said Soarin, "When Cheese walks in, we need to handle this slowly."

"Uh huh," said Twilight in agreement,

"Oh yeah," said Flash gritting his teeth.

All of sudden the doors burst open revealing Cheeese Sandwich with a big smile on his face.

"Hey everypony!" proclaimed Cheese, "Isn't it a wonderful Day!"

The mane six and stallions looked at each other with concern.

"Uh, Cheese," said Rainbow Dash, "Buddy, are you feeling okay?"

"Great, just Great!" said Cheese with a tone so sarcastic it almost sounded sincere," My parents are finally coming to visit! Ain't it just wonderful!?"

Everypony could tell that his eye was twitching.

"It just," said Fluttershy meekly, "You seem rather upset."

"Upset!?" said Cheese getting his smiling face into Fluttershy's, "Just because they never called!? They Never Wrote!? They nerer asked 'Hey Cheese do you have girle yet?'!? They never...!?"

"Easy there buddy," Soarin said as he hoofed him a root beer, forcing it down his throat.

"Well I know you super upset with you parents after everything." Pinkie said putting her hoof on his shoulder, "You told me last Hearth's Warming!"

"Well, maybe this is your chance to make amends with them," suggested Twilight.

"I don't know" said Pinkie Pie turning to the rest of their friends, "They are not very fun loving parents. They said that things like parties fun, and laughter are a waste of time! Can you believe that!? Do they want to provoked the wrath of the Alicorn Prince of Parties Liamire!?"

The other ponies just stared at Pinkie for a moment, then they turn their attention back to Cheese.

"So what are you going to say to you're parents when they get here?" Flash asked.

"Who says I'm going to say anything?" asked Cheese, "I've got an O game scheduled with Spike this afternoon."

"Umm, I think Spike might be busy this afternoon," said Twilight.

Back at the castle,

Spike was in his rom shoveling down ice cream while looking at a picture of Rarity

"Why? For ponies sake Why!?" Spike cried out tears in his eyes

"Well there's lots I'd like to say to them," said Cheese gesture to the mares, "But I'd rather not say use that kind of language in front of six fillies. But mainly I'd say, 'Thanks for the short visit! Bye! have fun with you're not fun desk jobs! hope to never see you again!' "

"Oh come on Cheese at least hear what they have to say," Pinkie said "I bet they're coming to apologize."

"Oh that would be a first," Cheese said once again sarcastically.

Flash and Soarin then glance at each other knowing what they must do Flash grabbed ahold of Cheese's under right hoof, and Soaring grabbed ahold oh him under his left."

"Okay guys," Flash said "Soar and I will handle this, enjoy you're drinks."

The two pegasus stallions then picked Cheese up and dragged him outside out of ear shot of the others.

Later on the streets of Tambelon, Flash and Soarin were dragging there old friend to meet his parents.

"Okay Cheese," Flash said "Let me get this straight? You're mad at you're parents because they think being funny and having fun is a waste of time?"

"That and they didn't care I ran away." Cheese said as he hanged his head down in sadness.

"Oh come on," said Soarin, " I'm sure they tried to find you..l

"No," said Cheese, "They sent security out to try and find me. They couldn't even be bothered to look themselves."

"Well I'm certain they still care very much," said Flash not noticing the crowd of ponies forming around him, "And I'm sure there very concerned about...What is going on?"

The three stallions found themselves in the middle of a large crowd standing in front the town hall. A familiar looking grey maned mare, adjusted her speckles as she adressed the crowd.

"Fillies and gentlecolts," She said "It gives me great pride as you mayor to introduced you too the mayor of manehatten!"

The out came a grey coated stallion with a suite and tie walked up on the stage his is a bill sign with a quill head adjust his neck tie proudly in front of the crowed.

"And theres...Daddy." Cheese said

"Hello everypony glad to be here on business," He said in a deadpan voice. "With the raising treat of King Sombra and the Storm King a good relationship is in order. That is way my wife and I are donating a check of 100 Million bits to our Military."

The crowd applauded as a grey mare in a business suit walked out on to the stage with large check. Her cutie mare was a large gavel banging on a stand.

"Thank you judge Snooty." Said mayor mare taking the check.

"Yes," Said the judge in a deadpan voice. "We are so proud to leave in Equestria, and of our son Mudbraier. Who just got his start at Hayvard Law.

A tall grey stallion with a bowl cut trotted out to join his parents. His Cutie Mark was quite literally a stick in the Mud.

"Technically!" The Stallion said stoickly, " I haven't stated yet. I received an acceptance letter, but won't officially be starting until."

His mother quickly covered his mouth before he could continue.

Flash and Soarin looked at Cheese's face turning red.

"Umm...Cheese?" Said Soarin "Why didn't you tell us your dad was the mayor of manehatten?"

"Why did't you tell us that your dad was the leader of Shadowbolts?" Ask Cheese angrily

"Touche," Said Soarin.

"Yes," Said Fuddy Duddy on the stage, "Our family has a lot to be proud of..."

"Booo Hissss!" Shouted a voice from the crowd.

Everypony turn to see Cheese shouting. Soarin and Flash smiled sheepishly besides him.

"No more years! No more years!" Cheese called out.

"...And a lot to be ashamed of," said Fuddy Duddy rolling his eyes.

Later back at the Soda Parlor

Cheese introduce his friends to his family.

"Everpony this is are my 'family'," Cheese said unenthusiastically, "My father Mayor Fuddy Duddy..."

"A pleasure to make your aquaintance," said Fuddy Duddy dryly.

"My mother Judge Snooty," Cheese said.

"Greetings," said the Judge.

"And my brother Mudbraier," finished Cheese.

Everypony galancd at blank space where Mudbriar was supposed to be. They then looked over to the counter where he was speaking to a waitress.

"Do you have anything organic on this menu," he asked.

Everypony looked at the stallion confused.

"Oh, I apologize, was I supposed to wait for you to finish?" Mudbriar statee

The Mane six and stallions glance at each other nervously for a moment, trying to figure out what to make of all this. Finallyo Twilight spoke up.

"Hello nice to meet you, I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle."

"Yes we know who you." Mayor Fuddy said as he shook her hoof unenthusiastically.

"Technically," said Mudbriar, "We've met several times, what with your family being dignitaries, and our family being elected officials in the Equestrian Government."

Everpony gritted their teeth nervously.

"Anyhow," said Applejack sheepishly, "It sure is nice is nice of ya'll to visit cheese after all this time."

"Technically," said Mud Briar, "We aren we visiting. We came to Tambelon to donate a sizeable check to the local government."

Everypony shuffled their hooves, you cut the tension with a knife.

"Ahem...Well Cheese has told us a lot about you," said Fluttershy quietly.

"There's a shock," said Jusge Snooty rolling her eyes.

"Technically..." started Mudbrirar.

"Mudbriar, you must stop doing that," Snooty said cutting him off.

"Anyhoo!" said Pinkie Pie popping up between Cheese and Fuddy Duddy, "Now that your all together again, I'm sure that something you'd like to tell Cheese."

The pink pony pushed the father and son close together.

"As a matter of fact there is," said Fuddy Duddy.

Everpony leaned in closely in anticipation.

"Here you go," said Fuddy Duddy handed Cheese a large roll of parchment.

"What's this," asked Cheese unrolling the paper.

"A bill for all the damages you caused during the Mirror Pool incident," Fuddy Duddy said matter of factly,

You could nearly hear glass shatteing as all the ponies winced at they'd just heard.

"Oh, bad move," said TrenderHoof backing away slowly.

"What dis you think the donation check was for," said Fuddy Duddy, "It's was to make up for the embarrassment our son cause."

As Fuddy Duddy and Sbooty trurned to leave, Cheese's Face quickly began to turn red.

"ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?" Cheese shouted leaping up into the air with smoke coming out of his ears.

"Buddy! Buddy! Calm down!" shouted Flash and Soarin as they attempted to hold back Cheese befor he charged.

"No!" said Cheese, "I haven't these ponies years and all they have to say to me is 'Heres the Bill'!?"

"Your the one who ran away from home for no good reason?" said Judge Snooty, "You could have come home anytime you wanted."

"Come home to what?!" asked Cheese, "My Parents who never supported me!?"

"Humph." Fuddy said "Well I see nothings changed. You always Villanize us, Just because we don't approve of you Ridiculous Nonsense."

"And there you guys go using those big words I do not understand!?" Cheese snapped back. "Do you know how confused I was as a Kid!?"

"Okay!" Pinkie shouted as she tried to sepearte Cheese from his parents, while Soarin and Flash held. "How about we all clam down, have some sodas, and talk about this."

"We supported you plenty," said Fuddy Duddy, "Just not on your crazy dream of being a clown."

"I'm not a clown!" Shouted Cheese ripping up the bill and throwing it up into the air like confetti, "I'm a Party Pony!"

"Exaclty," said Fuddy Duddy, "A Clown?"

"Hey now," said Pinkie Pie jabbing a hood in Fuddy Duddy's chest., "That's offensive to Party Ponies everywhere!"

"What's offensive is having an ungrateful son," said Snooty, "Who doesn't appreciate all the wonderful opportunities we presented him with."

"Wonderful Opper...You think I don't..." Cheese stuttered, "Grrrrrrrr!"

Suddenly a smile popped on Cheese's face.

"Twilight hold this for a moment," said Cheese handing he a gift.

"Uh, okay," said Twilight looking at the girt confused.

Suddenly the gift exploded into a cloud of dust snd confetti. When the dust cleared Cheese was gone.

"Hmph," said Fuddy Duddy unamused, "Come Mubriar, we're leaving."

"Technically," said Mudbriar looking at the menu, "I'm still ordering."

"Fine, meet us at the hotel," said Judge Snooty leaving with her Husband.

The mane six ans stallions five just stood there after what just happened.

"Okay everypony," said Flash with a start, "We can still salvage this. Girls, you try to talk to Cheese's parents, the rest of us will try to find Cheese. Let's move everypony."

The everypony rushed out of Diner, leaving only Mudbriar, still talking to the waitress.

"Do you have anything without glutton?"

Later that night at the Ponyville Playhouse

Cheese Sandwich was up on the stage singing kareoke while playing his accordian. He was wearing a frilly blue suit suit jacketmwith white fringe.

"Daddy"

"Daddy wasn't there"

"Mommy"

"Mommy wasn't there"

"To take me to the fair"

"It seems that they don't care"

"Daddy wasn't there"

The rest of the stallions suddenly walked in looking for Cheese.

"There he is," said Trenderhoof, "But what is he wearing!?"

"Daddy" Cheese continued

"Daddy wasn't there"

"To change my underwear"

"It seems he doesn't care"

"Daddy wasn't there"

The entire audience looked up at Cheese with confusion.

"When I first arrived" Cheese's baby pictures

"When I was criticized" Cheese with a C

"When I was ostracized" Young Cheese bullied

"When I was jazzicized" Cheese Jazzerciaing in legwarmers

"Ice cream and cherry pies" Ice Cream and Cherry Pies

"When my clothes were dried" Cheese hanging laundry

"When there tears in my eyes" Cheese drying his tears

"Daddy wasn't there"

"Um bro," asked Rumble who was im the audience with the Ponyville boys, "What is Cheese doing."

"Don't ask," said Thunderlane

"When I first arrived"

"When I was criticized"

"When I was ostracized"

"When I was jazzicized"

"Ice cream and cherry pies"

"When my chothew were dried"

"When there were tear jn my eyes"

"Daddy wasn't there"

Cheese bowed to the audience as he finished his song, "Thank you, thank you."

As the lights turnes on he saw his friends in the audience.

"I should have know you'd find me," said Cheese, "How'd you know where I'd be."

"You literally come here every week," said Troubleshoes rolling his eyes.

"Cheese," said Flash, "Why don't you put down the accordian and actually talk to your parents?"

"I've already tried that," said Cheese packing up, "You've seen how they are."

"Yeah, they seem like real pieces of work," agreed Soarin, "But you'll get over this until you confront them. Trust me I know."

"How did this all start anyway," asked Thunderlane.

"Oh I'll tell ya how it all started" said Cheese sitting down, "Begin Flashback!"

Flashback

We open on large park in the middle of Manehatten. A young Cheese Sandwich walks about as young fillies and cold play about, excitedly flying kites and jumping rope. He nervously avoids them all afraid to make eye contact.

"It all started when I was ten years old. Believe it or not, back then I was so shy nopony even knew my name.

Suddenly we open a large circus tent standing in the middle of Manehatten.

"Then the circus came to manehatten!"

A young Cheese Sandwich sits in the stands between his parents muching popcorn,

"I was watching the circus it with my parents and my brother. Then when the clowns came out on stage, the funnest clown of them all was Ponyacci."

The spotlight shone down on a stallion is a rainbow wig amd polka dotted outfit. Ponyacci dives down from the trapeeze, lands on a ball and begins dancing around on it, all while juggling and blowing balloon animals. The young Cheese Sandwich's face lit up as Ponyacci handed him a balloon animal shaped like a chicken.

"He was making everypony laughed so hard I thought they were going to bust a gut, myself included. Everypony in that circus was Lauging Out Loud..."

Young Cheese then looked over at his parents and brother, all of whom had bored looks on their faces, much to his disappointment.

"...Everypony except my family thst is. 'Humor and fun is a waste of time!' That's all Mommy and Daddy said."

End of flashback

"I wanted to be a part of that humor and fun but no!" Cheese said sluing down a rootbeer float "All Daddy and Mommy wanted was for me to me be like my brother here, a Stick in the Mud! nooffense."

"None taken," replied Mudbraier who had somehow joined them.

Cheese's began to tear up at that at first, and then his sadness turn back to anger.

"And that's why I ran away!" Cheese shouted "They were more interest in they're boring jobs their own son following his dreams! And this talk is over, 'Thank's for stopping by Mom and Dad! Hope to never see you guys again! Goodbye!' "

The rest of the Stallions glanced at each other as Cheese chugged down another root beer float.

"This could take awhile," said Soarin.

Meanwhile at the Golden Horseshoe Hotel

Fuddy Duddy and Snooty were speaking with concierge, mich to his annoyance.

"Yes we were informed that our suite would have a king sized bed," explained Snooty, "However it is quite obviously a queen sized matress."

The concierge rolled his eyes.

"Ahem," a voice coughed.

Fuddy Duddy and Snooty turned to see that the Mane Six had entered the lobby.

"Hi!" Said Pinkie Pie, "You probably don't remember us but..."

"Oh we remeber you," said Snooty, "Concierge, isn't there a rule that states only guests are allowed in this Lobby?"

"Look," said Twilight growing frustrated, "I understand that the two of you are very busy, but if you could just give us a moment to talk to you about Cheese..."

"Talk about what?" said Fuddy Duddy, "How our son Cheese Feta Chedder Sandwich let all thos silliness go to his head breaking our hearts."

Pinkie Pie's face slowly began to grow bright red, until suddenly steam began pouring out of her ears.

The two parents turned and began trotting down the hallway, when they were suddenly stopped by a bright pink blur.

"Enough!" Pinkie shouted to her fellow party pony planer's paremts, "Go back to lobby and sit down mister big shot, and I mean Now!"

Cheese's parents were surprised by what the pink mare just roared at them. Finally they sighed and sat down a table in the lobby,

"Okay now," said Pinkie Pie sitting sown beside them, "Let's hear what the parents have to say."

"Very well," Fuddy Duddy said "When my wife and I were you're ages, we learned eraly on that if we focus all our attention on our work and nothing else, we could be successful at anything we put out minds to."

"Sounds like a good philosophy to live by," agreed Applejack.

"And that things like 'having fun' or 'a sense of humor' would just get in the way," finished Judge Snooty.

"That, not so much," said Applejack gritting her teeth,

"We only wanted what was best for both our sons," said Fuddy Duddy, "It's not our fault he never appreciated it."

"I beg you pardon Mister Mayor," said Twilight, "But aren't you technically forgetting something about all Cheese's achievements since he came to Tambelon?

"Like Saving Equestria?" Pointed out Rainbow Dash.

"Or Joining the Royal Guard?" Pointed out Fluttershy.

"Don you think you should congratulate him?" asked Rarity, "And also, tell him how much we have missed him?"

Both parents just sat there in silence before glancing at each other and then back at the mares.

Finally the two ponies sighed swallowing their pride.

"Yes, we have heard how our son helped save Equesatria," said Fuddy Duddy "From stopping King Sombra to becoming a guard pony. And we admit we did feel proud."

Pinkie Pie and the other mares felt touch by the parents words.

"But then we saw how ridiculous he was acting when we arrived here," finished Snooty.

Glass seemed to shatter as the mares heard those words.

"Fun and humor is a wasted of time," grumble Fuddy Duddy, "and it's perfectly clear to us now that Cheese will never learn that."

As the twi parents stood up to leave, a loud and with a familiar voice suddenly shouted out.

"I HAVE HEARD ENOUGH!"

A bright purple fog filled the lobby followed by a blinding flash of light. When the ponies eyes cleared, they saw a chubby light purple coated, Dark purple Alicorn standing before them.

"Prince Liamire!?" Everypony gasped.

"That's right! It is I Primce Liamire, the Alicorn Prince of Parties!" He said as he glared at Cheese's parents, "And this outrageousness against fun and parties must stop! Saying that these things are a 'waste of time'!? No wonder your kid wanted to run away?"

"Well Prince we..." Fuddy duddy didn't get to finish as Prince Liamire used his magic boom box to unleashed music that was so loud that the entire hotel heard it.

"You two are going to learn how to have fun" Said Liamire angrily pointing his horn at Fuddy Duddy and Snooty, "And that parties are not a wasted of time, my friends."

Back at Ponyville Playhouse

"And then," said Cheese slamming down another root beer float, "He said 'As long as you are living under my roof you will never be a Super Dooper Party Pony!' Not in those exact words specifically, but the point is that was it. I packed up my bags and walked out the door of our penthouforever!"

"That's it, I'm cutting you off," said Thunderlane snatching the rootbeer from Cheese

"So I started wandering around Equestria, looking for a place belong," continued Cheese, "I stumbled into Tambelon one afternoon by chance. There I ran into Soarin and Flash who became my best friends. Eventually we teamed up Twilight, Applejack, Rariry, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie to fight some Diamond Dogs. Thunderlane tired to arrest us, but Twilight gave us a royal pardon. Then Princess Luna visited us all in dream where she told us..."

"Cheese," said Trenderhoof frustrated, "we already know all this we were there when it happened!"

"Technically," interrupted Mudbriar, "I wasn't there..."

"Which is why I was filling him in on the details," said Cheese, "Weren't you paying attention."

"That was a very sad, very long story Cheese," said Soarin, "but like I keep saying...You need to confront your Dad!"

"Why bother!" exclaimed Cheese, "The only reason he came ro visit me, was to give me a massive bill!"

"Technically," said Mudbriar, "Mom and Dad wanted to mail it to you. I convinced them to visit you."

"You see!" said Cheese Sandwich, "They won't even come to visit me, unless my perfect brother convinces them come."

"Technically," said Mudbriar, "I'm not perfect, Mod and Dad and I disagree on lots of things."

"Oh please," said Cheese Sandwich, "Your there perfect son who got into lawschool!"

"Technically," said Mudbriar, "I never said I wanted to go to lawschool."

"You see, I...Wait, what?" said Cheese confused.

"I never said I wanted to go to lawschool," said Mudbriar.

"But getting into Hayvard Law has always your dream!?" said Cheese Sandwich in disbelief.

"Technically, getting Hayvard Law was mom and dad's dream," exclaimed Mudbriar, "I was to get my Stickterate in Stick Science."

"Whosabit in what now?" asked Trenderhoof confused.

"Stick Science," explained Mudbriar, "The science of sticks, and the different kind of wood sticks are made of, and the dofferent kind of trees sticks come from, and how to tell whitch trees sticks come from, and how old the trees the sticks came from are..."

The other stallions were quicklu getting bored with Midbriar's explanation.

"And I thought Cheese was crazy," said Soarin cluthing his head in agrivation.

"But why haven't you told mom and dad about this?" asked Cheese confused.

"I'm not like you Cheese," said Mudbriar, "I don't have the courage to stand up to Mom and Dad, it's one of the many things that I admire about you."

"Huh, how about that," said Cheese stunned.

"CHEEEEEEEESE!" Shouted a voice out loud.

"Huh, what" said Trenderhood suddenly waking up from Musbriar's explanation.

Everypony turned to see Pinkie Pie bursting into the room.

"We have a big problem!"

Cheese Sandwich, Mud Briar and the other Stallions raced after Pinkie Pie throught the streets of Tambelon.

"Pinkie Pie," said Flash Sentry trying to keep up, "Could you explain to me again what exactly is going on?"

"That's exactly what is going on!" said Pinkie Pie pointing her hoof forward.

The stallions' jaws dropped at the sight of what had once been the Golden Horseshoe Hotel. Bright spotlights lit up the skies as fireworks when off from the roof. Loud music be heard from within the hotel, as the windows each of windows blinked with bright and colorful lights.

The stallions and Pinkie Pie rushed inside what had once been the lobby. A gaint checkerboard dancefloor had taken up a majority of the hotel, while Liamire sat at a massive turntable with numerous spears blaring out party music.

The prince parties had used a spell to make everypony in the hotel dance uncontrollably. Twilight Sparkle was currently doing the tango with Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash was being forced to do the robot on midair. Applejack was stuck square dancing with Rarity, much to the unicorns horror. The concierge was leading entire hotel staff in the world's longest conga line. Even Fuddy Duddy and Judge Snooty were dancing, being forced to polka dance by Liamire himself.

"I've never seen mom and dad so happy before," said Mudbriar.

"There's only one way to get out of this!" Shouted Liamire, "And that's for these two tok admit that fun is not a waste of time!"

"We've already addmited it!" shouted Fuddy Duddy, "We've said it about a hundred time!"

"You keep saying it! But I'm not believing it!" Laughed Liamire.

Cheese watch as his parents were forced to dance against their will. As mad as he was at them, he knew that he needed to get them out of this. Cheese sandwich race up to Liamire and leapt up onto the turntable.

"Prince Liamire! I challenge you to a Good Off!"

"GAAAAAAASSP!" exclaimed Pinkie, "Not the Goof Off..."

"Um, what's a Goof off," Asked Soarin confused.

"According to my Official Goof Off Rule Book," said Twilight still dancing.

"She actually has a Goof Off Rule Book!?" excalaimed Rainbow Dash in disbelief.

"The two competitors have free range to Goof About," continued Twilight, "Either by Singing, Dancing, Playing, Prancing, Joking or Performing to make the audience chortle, chuckle, giggle, guffa, hoot and hooler, whoop it up, and party it up!"

"Who made these ridiculous rules!?" Exclaimed Judge Snooty in disbelief.

"I'd says there extremely detailedand well organized," said Mudbriar, "I respect the pony who came up with them..."

"Why, Thank you!" said Liamire taking a bow.

"The funnier, sillier, and goofier, the better," finished Twilight, "Since were the only ponies here, I guess that makes up the audience.

a smug smile crossed Liamire's face.

"It's party time!" He shouted ringing a gong.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

Liamire slammed down on the turn tables blasting out loud music.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

Fuddy Duddy glance up at the Alicorn Prince nervously and then at his son.

"What ever this is son," he said "I hope it works!"

"It will pop," said Cheese pulling out an Acordian.

"So you're a tough guy"

"Like it really rough guy"

"Just can't get enough guy"

"Chest always so puffed guy"

Cheese sang pointing up at the Alicorn.

"Well I'm that bad type"

"Made ymy mama sad type"

"Make My girlfriend mad type"

"Might have lost my dad type"

"I'm the bad guy (Duh)"

Cheese's parent's glanced at each other feeling guilty.

"Mare I'm physically fit, physically fit"

"Physically, physically, physically fit!"

"Physically fit, physically fit"

"Physically, physically, physically"

Sang Liamire jamming on his turn table.

"Mare you nice, sweet, fantastic"

"Big ship on de ocean like a big Titanic"

"Mare you nice, sweet, energetic"

"Big ship on de ocean like a big Titanic"

Cheese leapt up on the turn tanble jamming on his accordian.

"I can buy myself flowers"

"Write my name in the sand" Cheese writes his name on the becah

"Talk to myself for hours" Cheese talking on the phone

"Say things you don't understand"

"I can take myself dancing" Cheese Disco Dancing

"And I can make my own plan" Cheese in a hard hat doing construction

"Yeah, I can lovе me better than"

"You can," Cheese pointed an accusing hoof down at his parents.

Fuddy Dudy and Judge Snootly slinked down sheepisly.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

Liamire slammed down on his turn table, blasting Cheese Sandwich away with music.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"I don't know if i can do this said Cheese," picking himself up, "He's just to darn good at partying."

"No he's not!" said Judge Snooty dancing over to her son, "He just keeps playing the same loud music over and over again."

"You've got way more talent than he does," said Fuddy Duddy joining his wife, "Now show that blowhard what you've got.

Cheese smiles as his parents began dancing alongside him, following his lead as he jammed on his accordian.

"I used to think I was smart"

"But you made me look so naive" Cheese sang drawing his parents close to him

"The way you sold me for parts" Cheese leapt up into the air

"You sunk your teeth into me" Playing an Accordion solo midair

Cheese leapt up onto the turntable and glared at Liamire, Nose to Nose.

"Oh, bloodsucker (Bleh), dream crusher"

"Bleeding me dry like a gosh darn vampire 'fruit bat' "

Furious, Liamire pulled up Pinkie Pie and began dancing with her.

"Mare ya nice an energetic"

"Big ship pon de ocean like a big Titanic"

"Mare ya nice broad face and ya nice hip"

"Make man flip and bust up them lip"

Cheese pulled Pinkie Pie away from the Alicorn, and the two ponyies lande on a horse carriage wearing cowboy outfits. Cheese's parents were pulling the, forward throught a western backdrop, while Cheese jammed on the Accordian.

"Yeah, I'm gonna take my filly to the old town road"

"I'm gonna ride 'til I can't no more"

"I'm gonna take my filly to the old town road"

"I'm gonna ride 'til I can't no more (Yeah, yeah)"

"Can't nobody tell me nothing"

"You can't tell him nothing, no!" Sang Pinkie Pie joining in.

"Can't nobody tell me nothing" They sang together.

Furious Liamire poofednup several more stereos and made his turntable even larger.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it" A Chorus line began singing along with him.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"Everypony!" shouted Cheese sandwich to his friends, "I'm gonna needja to join in for the big finish!"

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to move it"

"Do we have to," asked Rainbow Dash still being froced to to the robot.

"Yes you do!" said Soarin pullong her to join in.

"I like to move it, move it"

"You like to..."

All of a sudden there was a blinding flash of light halting Limire's Music. When it cleared Cheese Sandwich was standing on the dance floor in a sequent disco suit. The mane six and stallions were standing behind him in street dancing clothes.

Cheese tapped his hoof as he began playing his accordian.

"I party too late"

"Got nothing in my brain"

"That's what ponies say, mhm"

"That's what people say, mhm"

Cheese began dancing with his pony posses of friends dancing behind him.

"But a ponies gonna play (Play, play, play, play)"

"And the haters gonna hate (Hate, hate, hate, hate)"

"Pony, I'm just gonna shake (Shake, shake, shake, shake)"

"I shake it off, shake it off (Ooh-ooh-ooh)"

Suddenly Fuddy Duddy and Snooty felt something that they haven't before, they were having fun. And that dear readers, as they say made the fun in theor heart grow three sizes that day.

"Heartbreakers gonna break (Break, break, break, break)"

"And the fakers gonna fake (Fake, fake, fake, fake)"

"Baby, I'm just gonna shake (Shake, shake, shake, shake)"

"I shake it off, shake it off"

With a newfound appreciation for fun parties, and especially their son Cheese, they were soon joining in enjoying themselves. Pretty soon the hotel staff was joint in. Even Mudbraier was joining in. And Cheese began to sing a much happier song.

"That's right, I'm gonna shake it off"

"(Gonna shake it off, watch me shake it off)"

"(Shake, shake, shake it off)"

"(Hey)"

As the music halted, and everpony posed in place, Prince Liamire then trotted forward.

"That was the most amazing dance ever!" the Alicorn exclaimed tuning to Cheese's parents. "And I assumed that you two learned a thing or two about fun?"

"FUN!" Fuddy Duddy exclaimed "WE LOVE FUN! And parties and dancing!

"Why didn't we try this sooner? exclaime Snooty, "I finally get what it's all about it now!"

"Then my work here is done," said Liamire taking a bow.

And with a puff of smoke he dissapeared.

Later that night Cheese, Pinke, and his family were relaxing in the lounge with the hotel staff cleaned up the confetti.

"Well that was certainly and experience," said Judge Snooty taking a sip of coffee.

"Ahem," coughed Pinkie Pie.

The pink pony gestures her head twoards Cheese Sandwich, hoping his parents would get the message.

Fuddy Duddy and Snooty looked at each other, and then turne to their son Cheese.

"Son, we now may have been hard on you in the past," said Fuddy Duddy nervously.

"Go on," said Pinkie Pie.

"But we only ddi it beceause we always wanted was best for you," said Snooty sadly.

"We finally understand why you wanted to throw parties so much," Fuddy Duddy with a smile, "And it this is reaaly the path you with to go on, then we support you."

Tears began to slowly well up into Cheese Sandwichs eyes until finally he couldn't hold it in anymore.

"I missed you guys too!" Cheese said as he hugged both his parents and Mudbraier.

"I can't believe how enjoyable fun can be," Snooty said, " We should do things like this more often!"

"Technically," Mudbraier said "That was fun, mess you bro."

"Well, alls well that ends well," said Fuddy Duddy leaning back to sip his coffee.

Everypony relaxed for a moment, until Mudbriar spoke up,

"While were on the subjet, I have no intention of going to lawschool..."

"WHAAAAT!?" Shouted out Fuddy Duddy and Snooty there screams heard from outside the hotel.

A Dragon's broken heart

It was another beautiful day in Tamplon and Twilight was going to Spike's room it see how he was doing.

"Come on Spike," Twilight said knocking on his door. "You gotta come out sometimes it's been two weeks."

"No I don't!" Shouted Spike "I live here now!"

"Of course you live here," Said Pinkie Pie who suddenly showed up. "You've always lived here."

"Beg your pardon Pinkie," Said Applejack "I think he meat he leaves in his room."

"Is everypony in Equestria out there!?" Ground Spike

"Don't worry Spike Rarity is not here." Said Fluttershy

"Of course she not there!" Spike said "She is out with Trenderhoof, Love dies!"

"That's it!" Said Rainbow Dash "It's though love time!"

The Pegasus kicked in the door revling Spike's room and it was filthy. Bucket of ice cream was scattered across the room along with plies of dirty cloths. The blinds were shouding the room with darkness. Rainbow Dash began digging in a large plie of cloths atop Spike's bed eventully pulling the dragon out, She then flew him across the hall and threw him in to the bath tub with a slash.

"Hey what the?" Spike said

"Come on Spike," Said Twilight she began scrubbing his scales, "It's time you got over it."

"She right Spike," Said Fluttershy joining in. "I mean after all you and Rarity are dear friends you should be happy for her."

"Yeah, yeah." Said Spike with his arms cross.

"Besides." Said Applejack "There are lots of ponies or dragons or what ever it is your look for."

"I'm not looking for anycreature." Said Spike "I just want to be sad and lonely for the rest of my life."

"Tuff luck," Said Rainbow Dash picking him up and drying him off. "It's time you got on with you're life."

"It's a great beautiful day!" Said Pinkie Pie "The sun is shining the birds are crepping, you should be enjoying yourself!"

"So," Said Twilight as she picked him up and pushed him forward. "We want to to get out of the castle and go enjoy yourself."

"Whatever," With an annoyed look.

Spike slowly made his way to the castle entrance as he was about to leaf Rarity walked into the door.

"Ah Spike there you are," Said Rarity cheerfully, "I have not seen you in a while."

"Image that." Said Spike gritting his teeth.

"any hoo I have a number of new desnighs that I would just love you're assents in putting together." Rarity said

"Yeah, I'll pass," Said Spike shutting pass her.

Rarity watch spike walk away she became confused, Spike had never refused to help her before.

"What was that all about?" Turning to the rest of the mane 6.

The ponies shuffled their hooves sheepishly trying to figure out what to say.

"Oh it was properly nothing," Said Twilight smiling nervously

Spike straight thought the streets of Tamplon trying his best to get over Rarity but it was not easy, All around him love seems to be blooming, Lyra Hearthsings was on a romantice date with Bon Bon, As Big Mac trotted by with his new squeeze Sugar Belle, Even the birds and rabbets seems to be in love.

"GGGGGFRRRRRRAAAAA!" Shouted Spike in rage. "Is there anyone in Tamplon isn't in to all this lovy dovy junk!?"

"Excuse me?" Said a voice

Spike then turn around and saw a blueish grey griffon talking to one of the royal guards.

"Can you tell me the way to the royal palace?" She said

"Nocreature can enter the royal place with out an invasion," the guard said uptight. "Now scat!"

"Okay thank you," Said the griffon sadly.

Spike looked over at the female griffon with sympathy.

"Hey ignore that guy," Said Spike "I can take you to the palace."

"Oh thank you." Said the griffon with a smile.

Spike started leading her into the decaton of the palace.

"So why do you want to got to the palace exactly?" Asked Spike

"Oh I'm Gabby, I'm kind of friends with Princess Twilight, That is to say one time we met in griffonstone." Gabby explain.

"I'm Spike I live with Princess Twilight." Spike said

"You do!?" Said Gabby with excitement in her eyes. "You are so lucky!"

"That's one way of looking at it." Said spike rolling his eyes.

"I wish I can join Twilight and her friends on their amazing adventures." Said Gabby

"Hu uh," Said Spike

"But my friends in Griffonstone said that griffons can't join in any adventures." Said Gabby

"Way not I'm a dragon and I join them on their adventures?" Spike asked

"Because Griffons don't have cutie marks." Said Gabby "Things that are suppose to make ponies special, So I came to Equesatria to see if Princess Twilight can help get a cutie mark of my own."

"Ha you don't need Twilight's help for that." Said Spike "I know three ponies who are experts on cutie marks."

Later on top of a hilltop not far fromTambelon

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were standing on top of the hill with a large hanglider!

"Okay that's it," said Applebloom, "Ya'll have come up with a lot of crazy idea Scootaloo! But a Cutie Mark in hang gliding is where I'm drawin' the line!

"Who said anything about a cutie mark?" said Scootaloo, "I'm gonna soar throught the sky like an eagle.

Apple Blook and Sweetie Belle looked at each other and nodded. They then let hang glider just as Scootloo made the jump.

"Germino!" said Scootaloo as she made the jump.

"Hi girls," said Spike as he approached Sweetie Applebloom from behind, "This is Gabby!"

"Whoa, actual fillies," said Gabby exictedly taking notes, "Do you get your cutie marks in some kind of magic ceremony or is all at random?"

Applebloom rolled her eyes.

"Um hi," said Sweetie Belle trying to be polite, "We've never an actual griffon before.

"And I've never met an actuall Cutie Mark expert before," Gabby said excitedly shaking the unicorns hand.

"Cutie Mark expert," asked Apple Bloom raising an eyebrow.

Spike shrugged his shoulders sheepishly.

"That right!" said Gabby in excitement, "Spike here told me you three are experts on cutie marks. And I was hoping you could tell ke where they come from?"

"If we knew the answer to that, would we be doin' this." said Applbloom pointing behind her.

Up in the sky, Scootaloo was sailing about on the winds uncontrollably.

"WhooOoaaaAoooAooooAaaaaaaaaaaa!"

"Oh I know all about that part," said Gabby brushing it off, "Finding your destiny, and earning your cutie mark and whatnot, but where do they actually come from."

"Where do they what now?" asked Sweetie Belle confused.

"Cutie Marks!" said Gabby, "How do they magically appear on a pony and not on any other creature in Equestria?"

"Why do they..?" started Sweetie Belle confuse, "How do they...? Cutie Marks...? Whoa my head hurts..."

"Huh, I've never really thought about it before..." thought Applebloom, "You've asked a very importsnt question Gabby! Where do Cutie Marks come from anyhow?"

"Beats me," said Spike shrugging.

"Maybe if we find out where they come from," thought Sweetie Belle, "It'll be easier for us...and Gabby, to get one!"

"Cutie Mark Crusader Investigators are Go!" Said Applebloom and Sweetie Belle hoof bumping each other.

"...With Gabby! Said Gabby throwing her claw in.

"Uggh...and Spike," said Spike unenthusiastically thowing his fist into the air.

"To the Library," Announced Applebloom.

"WaaaaaaaaAAaaaaAaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" said Scootalloo crashing into the ground.

"What'd I miss?"

Back at Tambelon Castle

"I just don't understant it," said Rarity, "Spike loves helping me out with my new designs. Why would he refuse this time?"

"Gee, it's a mystery," said Rainbow Dash being forced to wear a frilly pink dress.

The rest of the Mane Sox were assisting Rarity in Spike's place.

"Ya shouldn't take it personally Rarity," said Applejack draping some fabric on Rainbow Dash, "Spike's just...goin' through a lot right now."

"But, what could he possibly be going throught that he couldn't tell me about Raity," continued Rariey as she continued sewing, "Is it something I said? Something I did?"

"Something your completlely unaware of," said Rainbow Dash under her breath.

Twilight blushed trying to find the right words.

"You really shouldn't take it personally Rarity."

"That's right," continued Fluttershy, "It's nothig that you did."

"Yeah, it's not your fault Spike's had a crush on you since the day he was hatched..." groaned Rainbow Dash.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie all shout at once covering Rainbow Dash's mouth.

"What..?" said Raity turnong around with a disheartened look.

The other four poniesglared at Rainbow Dash with Fire in their eyes.

"Um nothing..." Said Rarinbow Dash, her eyes darting around the room

"Spiky Wiky had a crush on me..." said Raity still in disbelief.

"No he didn't said," said Rainbow Dash sweating bullets.

"Sweet Adorable Spike Wikey had a crush on me this entire time and I didn't know about...?!" said Rarity growing ever more dramatic.

"Flagan...Haggan..." Rainbow Dash began stuttering.

"Keep stutterin' that'll make time go backwards," said Applejack.

"Spikey Wikey had a crush on me!?" said Rarity magicing over a couch and falling in it dramatically, "How could I not have know this?!"

"Well you hve to admit Rarity, it was kind obvious," said Twilight.

"Yeah," agreed Applejack "I mean the only reason he he helped ya do all this stuff, is because he has a crush on you."

"Yeah, and now that you're dating Trenderhoof..." said Rainbow Dans

"Spike knows about me and Trenderhoof!?" Cried out Rarity in a panic

Rainbow Dash quickly covered her mouth, realizing what she'd done.

"You are on a roll today," said Applejack,

"Yes Rarity," Fluttershy spoke up, "Spike does know about you and Trenderhoof, and now that he knows you've moved on, he feels like you broken his heart."

"Well, I do love Spike," Rarity said "But just not in the way he thinks. I am of course grateful to him and all his help, I just didn't realize why he was helping me."

"I must make this right!" said Rarity leaping off of the Couch, "As Celestia as my witness, I will heal young Spikey Wikey's broken heart!"

Rarity dahed out of the room determined to fulfil her mission. As she did, the rest of the ponies truned to glare at Rainbow Dash.

Pinkie Pie popped up beside Rainbow Dash, handing her a cupcake with a scowl.

The pegasus sighed...

"Cross my heart...Hope to Fly...Stick a cupcake in my eye..." Rainbow dash said showing the cupcake in her eye.

Meanwhile at the Castle Library

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Gabby were desperately searching the Library for books about Cutie Marks, but to little avail. Piles of books were scattered about, them but none of them with the information that they were looking for. Spike was helping too, although slightlh less enthusiastically.

"This is unbelievable," said Gabby in a panic, "There's hardly any information here on Cutie Marks or where they come from."

"I found this book on Family Histoy," said Apple Bloom, "Hard to believe ther are so many apple shaped cutie marks in my family."

"I found a book of Fairytales," said Sweetie Belle, "Some of these are about Curie Marks.

"I found the Daring Do Books," sadi Scootaloo excitedly.

Gabby, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle looked at Scootaloo skeptically.

"Well there could be something about Cutie Marks in one of these..."

"Any luck Spike," called out Apple Bloom.

The young dragon was on top of a ladder, with a large pile of books he had pulled fromt he shelves.

"So far things are going good," Spike said as he picked up anotjer book off ithr shelf not knowing what it was, "I don't even remember what I was so upset about."

Suddenly Spike lost his footing, and fell to floor in a shower or books. He landed in a large pile of paperbacks, with the book he had just picked out landed on his face.

Spike picked himself up, pulling the book off of his face. He then look at the cover of the book, and familiar memory pooped into his mind. All of a sudden, the young dragons eyes began to water and then brust into tears.

"Spike are you okay?" Sweetie Belle asked as she and the others walked too him.

"No it's this!" Spike shouted as he showed them the book called "Romeo And julian."

"Yeah that book does look musy looking." Said Scootaloo

"No not the book!" Spike said "It reminds me of Rarity."

"Oh is it becuse you have a crush on her? and you'd find out my big sis is dating Trendrrhoof?" Asked Sweeite Belle

Spike shoocked his head yes.

"Spike I liked to remind you that Rarity is a full grown Pony." Said Scootaloo "And you a little dragon."

"Oh sure remind me of that!" Spike said "I guess I'm just fooling myself."

"No wonder your upset." Said Gabby Concerned.

"Ya poor guy." Said Apple Bloom

Spike stood there still mopping but then decided to put away the book and try to look for something else to read.

"Ya know what," said Scootaloo watching Spike sympathetically, "This place is a bust let's search for answers somewhere else."

"But where else are we gonna go," asked Sweetie Belle, "We've already searched throught every book in Equestria."

"Does everypony know about that," said Spike angry tear in his eyes "Why did she choose him over me?"

Later in the Everfree Forest

Spike, Gabby, and the Crusaders were gathered in Zecora's Hut. The wise Zebra was currently working at her cauldron, strirring a new potion.

"I've said it before," chanted Zecora, "and again I state..."

"...A Cutie Mark just has to wait," groaned Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.

"Yeah, yeah we already know that," said Spike, "That's not why were here."

"We want to know where a Cutie Mark actually comes from," said Gabby.

A wild look suddenly came into Zecora's eyes causing her to nearly drop her staff. She quickly banged her staff on the ground causing all the shutters and blinds to close at once. She then rushed over to her cabinet where she grabbed an assortment of potions tossing them into the cauldron with a large explosion, much to the shock of her guest. Zecora then blew out the candles, shrouding the hut in darknes.

Zecora's cauldron began to glow, lighting up the faces of Spike, Gabby, and the Crusades in an errie glow. Zecora slowly trotted into the kight a spooky look on her face.

"So, A Cutie Mark's origin is your task"

"That is a question I once asked"

"Far from Equestria, in Farasi I grew"

"A little filly just like you"

"I studied magic wild and unique"

"Searched far and wide for what I seek"

"Outside my village, a jungle land"

"There lies a country of burning sands"

"Saddle Arabia, as it is called"

"With ponies proud, and oh so tall"

"There lies the answer that you seek"

"Why Cutie Marks are so unique"

As Zecora's rhyme finished light returned to the hut. Gabby and the Crusaders looked more confused.

"Great," said Scootaloo, "And just how exactly are we supposed to get to Saddle Arabia?"

"We don't have to," said Spike, "We could just go to Saddle Arabian Embassy."

The Crusaders and Gabby looked at Spike with confusion.

"The Embassy where all the dignitaries from Saddle Arabia come to stay at whenever there visiting Tambelon," explained Spike.

"Oh right," said Scootaloo blushing," that embassy.

Meanwhile at back at TambelonCastle

Rarity was desperately searching from room to room in desperate search of Spike. As she raced down another hallway she suddely spotted Spic N Span going over his check list.

"Oh Spic'n'Span," exclaimed Rarity hugging the butler tightly "I beg your pardon, but would you by any chance happened to see poor sweet Spike?"

"If I'm not mistaken," said Spik and Span trying to breathe, "He and the Crusaders were going to visit Zecora...Something about helping a young griffin."

Rarity quickly raced out of the castle tossing Spik'n'Span onto the floor. From up in Twilight's tower the rest of the mane six watched her race across the drawbridge.

"We're following her right?" asked Applejack.

"Of course," said Twilight.

Meanwhile on the other side of Tambelon

Spike, Gabby, and the Crusaders were passing by a number or strangely decorate building, each one hosing a different assortment of creatures. There was a Griffonstone Embassy, a Seaqeuatrian Embassy, even a Dimond Dog Embassy. Eventually they made there way to a large elegan building where many tall slender ponies trotted about.

"Well, there it is," said Spike, "The Saddle Arabian Embassy."

"Spike and the made there way onto the property. The young dragon led them over to tall brown stallion, and a slender pink mare both dressed in foreighn garb. They were playing croquet on the grounds of the embassy.

"Haakim! Amira!" said Spike excitedly.

"Ahhhhh, young Spike," said the Stallion, "We have not seen you since we last visited Tambelon Castle."

"Everypony," announced Spike, "This is Haakim and Amira, there the Royal Delgates from Saddle Arabia. Haakim and Amira this is Gabby, Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle."

"It a pleasure to be meeting you," said Amira bowing to the group.

Gabby, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle squealed and bowed excitedly to the new equines.

"Enought of the small talk," said Scootaloo pushing thr girls aside, "We've been all across Tambelon asking this question, and now we want to know...Where do Cutie Marks come from!?"

Haakim and Amira just looked ar Scootaloo confused.

"What is a cutie mark?" asked Haakim.

All of sudden, Spike and the girls took a closer look at Haakim and Amira. Both of there flanks were exposed, and both were completey blank. There jaws nearly dropped.

"Ya'll don't have Cutie Marks!?" stated Applebloom dumbfounded.

"I do not believe so," said Amira, "of couse I am still not quite certain whatna cutie mark is..."

"Um the nearly everypony in Equeastria, aside from us, has!" exclaimed Scootaloo pointing at some ponies passing by, "The mark that literally tells a pony who there supposed to be!?"

"Oh is that what those things are?" asked Amira, "I thought those were just for decoration."

"Incredible!" said Gabby taking notes, "So your saying that the ponies in Saddle Arabia do not have cutie marks."

"No," said Haakim, "And the ponies in Maretonian do not have them either. In fact, the only place I have ever seen those marks isnright here in Equestria."

"So, that means Cutie Marks come from Equestria?" asked Sweetie Belle confused.

"But then how did ya'll figure your destiny?" exclaimed Applebloom, "How you were goin' be and the thing that makes ya'll special?"

Haakim and Amira chucled to themselves.

"We do not need a silly mark to tell us who we are," stated Haakim.

"We know who we are," said Amira, "And who we are is what makes us special."

Meanwhile bakc in the Everfree Forest

Rarity raced her way to Zecora's hut and burst through the door only to see Zecora stirring at her cauldron.

"Zecora..." said Rarity gasping, "I'm looking for Spike...I broke his heart...And now I'm trying to find him...So I can make it right...And reclaim my dignity...Habe you seen him? Please, please, please, please, PLEASE!"

"Saddle Arabinan Embassy," said Zecora with a smile.

Rarity quickly raced out the door.

"You cand come out now," said Zecora looking over at a serier of tribal masks hanging form the wall.

Twilight, Applejacke, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash peeked out from behind the masks smiling sheepishly.

Back at the Embassy

Spike, Gabby, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo sat on the Embasssy looking depressed.

"We searched all over twon for answere on where a Cutie Mark comes from," stated Applebloom, "And now, we understand even less about them then we dod before!"

"It makes me wonder why we were even obsessed with them in the first place," said Sweetie Belle.

"Don't even go there," said Scootaloo jabbing a hoof in her muzzle.

Spike gave a large sigh.

"There is one last place we could turn to, but you guys are gonna have to keep an open mind."

"Where do Cutie Marks come from?" asked Sunburst.

Spike, Gabby, and Crusaders were in his laboratory where the apprentice unicorn was hard at work.

"Honestly, I'm no so sure myself," he continued, "I could ask Star Swirl, but he's the Dragon Kingdom right now..."

"Well this was a bust," said Spike depressed, "Let's go guys..."

"Wait a minute," said Sunburst just as they were about to leave, "I may have a way to find out."

Sunburst reached up on a book shelf and pulled out 'The True History of Equestria:A Documentation of the Primordial Mysteries that the Alicorns Don't Want You to Know About'.

"I was borrowing this from Twilight," said Sunburst, "If this book doesn't have an answere to your question, nopony in Equestria does.

Sunburst scanned over the glossary until he csmento the section karked 'cutie mark'. He then flipped through the pages until he came to the section he had read about.

"Based on my reaearch," read Sunburst aloud, "I can now determine without a doubt that a cutie mark appears only on the ponies of Equestria. The exception being the equines native to Farasi. I theorise that this had something to do with the Six Founders of Equestia...Althought how and why cutie marks first alleared remains a mustery to me. I will continue to write on the subject after I done more research... Sincerely Breezy the Brave."

Spike and the Crusaders looked at Sunburst unimbressed. Only Gabby seemed to be interested, taking notes on everything Sunburst had read.

"That's it?" said Spike raising and eyebrow.

"I'm afraid so," said Sunburst, "I suppose that the author never quite found the answer he was looking for."

"Boy do I know how that feels," said Spike.

The young dragon led the Crusaders out of the room, while Gabby continued to take notes.

Back at the Embassy

"Yes we saw Spike," said Haakim.

He was speaking to Rarity, while he amd Amira were still playing croquet.

"I believe he was headed back to castle," said Amira

Rairity groaned and dashed away. She didn't even notice that the rest of main six were playign croquet beside her, disguised in fancy polo outfits.

Outside the castle gates, Spike was leading Gabby and crusaders out of the castle

"Spike!?" cried out Rarity as she rushed up to him "I have searched near and far for you! All across Tamleon, in a desperate attempt to...Gabby, what are you doing here...?"

"I'm here to find out where cutie marks come from," Gabby said, "And Spike's been helping me find out."

"Oh, said Rarity, "Well then... Spike I just found out everything Rainbow Dash. I had no idea that my relationship with TrenderhHoof would hurt younso much, and further more..."

"Save it Ratity," said Spike abuptly.

"Say what now?" Replied Rarity confused.

"I was upset at first, but after everything I've been throught today, I'm pretty much over it," Spike stated, "Honestly, at this point I'm embarrassed that I ever thought you could love.

Rarity looked a depressd dragon, with her own heart practically breaking.

"Oh but Spike, of corse I love you," said Rarity.

"You do?" said Spike confused.

"Of course," said Rarity, "Just not in that way. But I am truly grateful for all of your unwavering support and friendship. And I want you to know always hold a special place in myheart.

Spike smiled touched by Rarity's words. he realized that love came in many forms, and that his bond with Rarity was unique and cherished in its own way.

"Awwwwwww," said Applebloom and Sweetie Belle together.

"Ewwwwwww," said Scootaloo disgusted.

"Honestly," said Spike, "I more disappointed that I wasn't able to help Gabby out."

"What are you talking about," said Gabby, "You were a big help to me!"

"But, we didn't find out where a cutie mark comes from," said Spike.

"No," said Gabby, "But I know much more about Cutie marks then I did before. And I finally fround a group of friends who care about me deeply. Applebloom even offered to make me an hoorary Crusader."

Spike smiles, Gabby's enthusiasm and determination were almpst contagious.

"And I wouldn't have been able to have done any of it without you," finished Gabby.

And then, much to everyponies surprise, Gabby gave spike a kiss on the cheek. The young dragon fell to ground stunned, tiny hearts almost seeming tomfloat up from him. Spike watched as Gabby flew off into the sky, ribbing his cheek as he blushed.

Twilight, Applejack, Rainbowdash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie watched from around a corner.

"Here we go again," said Rainbow Dah rolling her eyes.

Sun Rock

We open on yet another morning in Tamplon. Twilight Sparkle and her family were enjoying a lovely breakfast of pancakes and coffee.

"Nothing like a good breakfast to get you started on a new day." Said Twilight taking a bite from a pancake.

"It's sure is." Said Nightlight before taking a drink from his coffee.

Then door open and Spic N Span came with a letter.

"You're majesties this letter came for you," The butler said "It seems very important as it has the symbol from one of the alicorns."

"Which one?" Nightlight asked as he used his magic to take the letter and saw a pony skull on it and a shiver when down his spin. "Oh dear...Tikbalang."

"Tikbalang!?" The rest of the family said in unison.

"As in the Alicorn lord of the underworld!?" asked Queen Twilight Velvet

"Yup," Said Nightlight swalloing hard,

"As in the one who gives the judgement to the wicked!?" Asked Princess Twilight Sparkle

"Yes," King Nightlight replied

"As in the scariest Alicorn ever!?" Spike said cluthing his cheeks in horror.

"That's the one," King Nightlight said as he openedthe letter and read it," And it would seems he's sending sompony over here today...the leaser of his agency...H.O.R.S.E. I believe it's called..."

"Horse where I've heard that before?" Twilight asked herself.

"H.O.R.S.E!"

"We fight for Freedom with a mighty Force!"

"H.O.R.S.E!"

"Takin' down evil at it's Source!"

"When it time to start the fight"

"You'll hear our airships taking flight!"

"Secret army of pony spies"

"Look out Storm King, your gonna Fry!"

"H.O.R.S.E is the codename for the Heroic Organization for Reconnaissance and Security of Equestria!"

"It's purpose, to defend equine freedom against the Storm King,"

"A ruthless tyrannical organization determined to rule the world!"

"H.O.R.S.E!"

"We'll lock you up inside of Tar-tor-ous! "

"H.O.R.S.E!"

"Here we come, flying right on Course!"

A group of cheerful agents boarded H.O.R.S.E's floating aircraft headqurtera having just completed a other successful mission against the Storm King's army. As the trotted down the hallway they passed by a familiar trio of mares

"Well if it isn't the ghastly trio," said an earth pony stallion, "Still trying to track down daddy Sombra."

Sunset Shimmer, Starlight Glimmer, and Trixie glared at cocky stallion with a blue fox for a cutie mark.

"Back off Foxtrot," snapped Sunset, "We're doing important business here."

"Please!" said a scarlet pegasus mare rolling her eyes, "Commander Tempest has us out on the field fighting real enemies of the Equestria, the Storm King and his Army. Meanwhile she has you three babysitting some wannabe Alicorn, who's to the pony princess more times than we can count."

The H.O.R.S.E. agents continued down the hallway laughing to themselves, leaving Sunset, Starlight, and Trixie in the dust.

"Yeah well...You clearly can't count very high Tango!" snapped Trixie trying to think of a good comeback.

"Those equines need to be taught some manners."

The three mares turned to see a familiar looking mare with three bon bons fow a cutie mark was watching from a doorway. Behind her Agent Heartstrings were struggling to restrain a bugbear.

"Want we to handle them," the mare said adjusting her sunglasses.

"No thanks Sweetie Drops," said Starlight Glimmer with a sad smile.

"Have it your way," said the mare said shutting the door, "Lyra! I told you to restrain the bugbear, not ask it for a piggy back ride!"

"Agent Shimmer! Agent Glimmer! Agent Trixie!"

A unicorn stallion trotted down the hallway with a letter in hand

"Commander Tempest wants to see you immediately," the agent said handing them the letter, "I repeat, Commander Tempest wants to see you immediately!"

"Thank you Bravo," said Sunset taking the letter from the repetitive stallion.

Sunset, Starlight, and Trixie trotted down the hallway twoards the commanders office. Only Trixie seemed exited, hopping about excitedly.

"All anypony here sees us as are the Daughter's of Sombra," groanded Sunset.

"Do you thin' they're right," asked Starlight, "Is what were doing really not important?"

"Of course not," said Trixie confidently, "If it was, would the Commander Tempust would keep sending us out on these important missions? I wonder whar mission she has for us next. Do you thinks she's finaly going to give us that promotion."

"I just hope it's better than our last mission," said Starlight, "Reconassaince in Dimondia...I still can't get the smell of Diamond dog out of my hair..."

"Whatever it is, the mares of Horse can handle it," said Sunset proudly.

The three mares made it to the Commander's office, where the scarlet unicorn with a broken horn was sipping coffee.

"Ah, just the three mares I wanted to see," stated Commander Tempest looking up from her notes, "As you are well aware, the three of you have been working with H.O.R.S.E. for quite some time now..."

"It's been an honor ma'am," said Sunset Shimmer giving a salute.

"And you've supplied us with some excellent information on King Sombra..." continued Tempest Shadow.

"It was the least we could do ma'am," confirmed Starlight Glimmer.

"So thank you for your service and good luck," finished Tempest.

"As you command... Wait what?" said Trixie.

"Your tour of duty is over," said Tempest returning to her notes, "You've more than fulfilled the requirement of your probation, so now your free to whatever you please.

Sunset, Starlight, and Trixie stared at there now former commander dumbfounded.

"Ma'am," spoke up Sunset, "I'm confused, I thought you wanted us here at H.O.R.S.E.

"I did," stated Tempest not looking up from her notes, "but you didn't think this would be forever did you?"

"But...This is the only thing we know," stated Starlight in a panic, "Going on missions for Sombra...and then going on missions for you...That's basically our entire life!"

Tempest Shadow rubbed her temples looking annoyed.

"Look I don't have time for this...I have a very important meeting in Tambelon in less than an hour."

Tempest Shadow trotted out of the room, leaving the three mares behind, still confused.

"What...Just...Happened!?" stated Trixie in a panic.

Later that day

There was a sight to behold as a really H.O.R.S.E air base soared it way above Tambelon, slowly making it's way to Tamplon Castle. Twilight, her parents, Spike, Flash, Thunderlane, Trenderhoof, Troubleshoes, Cheese Sandwich, Soarin, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, The CMC, Granny Smith, Big Mac, Spic n Span, The castle guard, and the rest of the castle staff could not believe their eyes as how big it was. As it made it's way to the landing platform it began to open...

Many ponies began to pour oout of the blimp all wearing black armor. They lined up around the platform securing the perimeter. Next came none other then his right hoof of H.O.R.S.E. Tempest Shadow, accompanied by the diamond dog Lassie.

"Fillies and Gentlecolts," said Tempest Shadow solemly, "It is my great honor to present to you...The Lord of Tartarus...The bringer of destruction and deapairr...Lord Tikbalang..."

Out of the darkness a tall skinny, yet creepy looking alicorn appeared making his way down the platform. He was a grey coated stallion draped in ancient black armor. Much like other other alicorns his mane was flowing and and his eyes were dark like an endless void. A skull like crown his head

He certainly scared almost everypony there. Most of the staff ran away in a screaming panic. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo held each other tightly shivering. Granny Smith nearly fainted, being caught by Big Mac.

"Greetings," said King Nightlight as he approach to the grim looking alicorn who came off his airship. "Allow me to be the first one to welcome you to Tambelon!"

King Nightlight reached out his hood to welcome the Alicorn. Tikbalang glare at it with a look that could kill. Beads of sweat began to drip down the King's brow as the Alicorn glared at him.

"Let's skip the formalities," said Tempest pushing the hoof asside, "We have business to discuss."

Tikbalang trotted past the King twoards the the castle with his H.O.R.S.E. agents covering him from all side. The King Shivered as he followed close behind accompanied by his Queen. The Rest of the Mane Six and Stallions followed in pursuit. As they did Twilight suddenly noticed something out of the corner of her eye.

Three ponies were attemptin to sneak of the ship, shrouded in black cloaks. Even with there disguises, Twilight recognized them as the three former Daughtes of Sombra.

"Trixie Lulamoon? Sunset Shimmer? Starlight Glimmer?" Twilight spoke out loud.

The three unicorns froze in place at sound of being spotted

Suddenly it was all coming back to Twilight as she not remembered what Flash told her about Trixie said back at Charlatan's casino.

"Well at least I didn't tell them about Tempest running the secret Organization called..." Trixie was stopped mid-sentence as Sunset covered her mouth.

"So this is the organization they you work for?" Twilight said alout

"Say what" Flash said nervously trying not to look guilty, "That is totally new information to me."

The the ponies glanced at each other nervously and then dashed away.

Later again at Twilight's tower

Twilight sighed at she was still not allowed in the war room where her parents and Tikbalang were at right now. She then turn and saw all her friends who were all thinking about the same thing (except maybe for Pinkie and Cheese who were thinking of what kind of party they should throw for the gloomy Alicorn). Only Flash and Thunderlane had been allowed to attend, being the captain of the Guard. Finally, Soarin spoke up.

"Okay if nopony is going to say it then I will!" The pegasus shouted out "How the heck did the Daughters of Sombra got involved with this "H.O.R.S.E." Organization? On top of that what the hay is it? Can it be trusted? What do they do? Why was it made?"

"What's a H.O.R.S.E. anyway," said Cheese unfamiliar with the word.

"Settle Down Sorain," Applejack said claiming him down. "I'm sure if we just asked we'll get our answer."

"And who can we asked?" Rainbow Dash asked

"I bet we can asked them," Twilight said as she pointed from her window

Sunset, Trixie, and Starlight were sitting in the castle gardens below. The friends all then look down at the three with mix feelings.

"Well what are we waiting for?" said Soarin, "Let's get some answers!"

He and fillies trotted their way over to the door, only for TrenderHoof and TroubleShoes to cut them. The Mans Six screened to a half, with Soarin smacking into them from behind.

"Let, me get this straight," Said TrenderHoof "Your just going to walk up to those three and say 'Hello girls that worked for King Sombra. We're the ponies you chase and hostage. Could you please tell us about you're new creepy boss!?"

The mane six looked at each other for a moment.

"Now Trender darling," Rarity replied "Twilight's right it wouldn't hurt to just ask."

TrenderHoof smacked his Hook to his face.

"Look, you wouldn't understand this because you've never been criminals before..."

"Ahem..." said Soarin rising his hoof from the back.

"Real criminals," continued TrenderHoof, "The kind that's had to do a lot of things you're not proud of just to survive, all for the benefit of someone you hate. The last thing you want is to be surrounded by a bunch of random ponies asking you questions and trying to be your friend. I can barley believe I'm doing it myself.

The Mane Six all looked at each other again.

"He does have a have a point," stated Applejack

"On the other hand," said Fluttershy, "And besides They've helped us out more than once..."

"And it's only fair that we help them," agreed Rarity.

"And exactly that's what we are going to do." said Twilight standing tall "

"So let's go asked them," said Rainbow Dash pumping her hoof in the air.

"Charge!" cried put Pinkie Pie

The Mane Six charged directly towards the Door, with TrenderHoof struggling desperately to keep them inside.

"TroubleShoes! Help!" he cried out.

"Ya know," sqid TroubleShoes nonchalantly, "We could always try Sunburst."

"Sunburst?" asked up Rainbow Dash as the ponies froze in place.

"Sunburst knows all the secrets of Equestira," continued TroubleShoes, "Ah reckon he's know something about H.O.R.S.E."

"Why didn't I think of that," said Twilight.

"Cheese, Soarin, and the Mane Six trotted out the door leaving behind a trampled Thunderlane.

"You couldn't have spoke up sooner?" the unicorn stated.

Meanwhile

Trixie, Sunset and Starlight were still sitting in the gardens near the water fondant.

"So now what," Starlight said while leaning against a tree depressed, "We've served out time...They've told us they don't need us anymore...What do we do now?"

"I...I honestly don't know," said Sunset spsulking on a bench, "For the first time ever, I have no idea what we're going to do next."

The tree unicorns sat in thr garden in utter silence.

"WAAAHHHaaaHaaahaaaaaaaaa!"

Sunset and Starlight looked over at Trixie who had suddenly burst out loud into tears.

"This is awful," Trixie stated getting down on her knees weeping, "I always had hopes and dreams that I would be somepony someday! B-b-but...look at me No-o-o-o-ooooooow!"

Starlight trotted over to Trixie and put a hoof over her shoulders.

"Come on it's not so bad," sad Starlight, "As long as we have each other everything will be fine."

"Maybe if we go around the city we might just find out answers," Sunset said, "And if anyone asked we do not have any ties to King Sombra."

"Th-th-that could work." Trixie said wiping away her tears.

"Alright let's go check out this kingdom." Starlight said

The trio trotted off together, to find out their next lot in life.

Meanwhile

Twilight and her friends went on a search for Sunburst. They were finally able to find him at the royal library getting some books.

"Um...Hi," The orange unicorn stallion said upon seeing the group.

"Sunburst we need you're help." Twilight said

"What is it?" Sunburst asked "Is about Tikbalang being here? I mean everypony knows he creeps everyone out but..."

"No," Twilight replied "Well sort of it's about this Organization he runs H.O.R.S.E."

"Oh that," Sunbrust then used his magic to take out a black book with a skull on it and flipped to the page about the Organization.

"H.O.R.S.E: a codename for the Heroic Organization for Recon and Service to Equestria. This organization was founded by Tikbalang after the Titans were defeated. He realized that evil can come in many forms, from everywhere and anywhere. So, he Created H.O.R.S.E., a sacred order dedicated to keeping watch and look out a for any for any future threats. As the centuries the order grew, and eventually became an organization, one which kept track of threats to Equestria through espionage and covert opperations."

"So their spies?" Rainbow Dash asked getting a nod from Sunbrust "Cool, just like Double Hooves seven!"

"Or Tikky's Angels!" Pinkie Pie exclaim.

It was at that moment Twilight had finally snaps

"Okay Thats it!" Twilight shouted "I have had it with all these secrets from me! WE are going to find out whats going on in that War Room!"

While that was going on

Trixie, Sunset, and Starlight were walking down the street of Tambelon.

"Well," said Starlight looking around, "Things certainly are different here..."

All around the three unicorns, ponies were enjoying themselves, cheerfully going about their jobs and daily routines.

"You know, we spent so much time going on missions for Sombra and H.O.R.S.E, we never got the chance to experience how peaceful things are here in Equestria," stated Sunset, "What do you think Trixie."

Red headed unicorn looked behind her to see Trixie was missing.

"Trixie?" said Sunset in a bit of a panic.

She and Starling looked around desperately to find their blue unicorn. Suddenly they found in a large crowd of pinies standing before a large stage. A nearby poster read, "See the great Hoofdini, and his the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive act!"

Sunset and Starlight rushed of Trixie.

"Don't scare us like that Trixie," said Starlight, "We told you not to wander off."

Trixie wasn't listening, her eyes wwent wide as she stared at the pony on the stage.

"And now!" proclaimed a Unicoen Stallion with a curly cue moustace, "I, the one and only Great Hoofdini, will do the impossible! I will blast myself out of this cannon, and into open mouth of a hungry Manticore!"

There was a large puff of smoke, and a manticore roared as it appeared on the stage. Hoofdini loaded himself into the cannon, and launched himself directly into the manticore's mouth. The crowd gasped as the manticore chewed him up and swallowed him. Suddenly the spotlight moved twoards a box on the othe side of the stage. Hoofdini magically step out of a box, as the crowd roared with applause.

"Wow!" The blue unicorn said as he eyes aglow.

"What's the big deal," said Starlight, "It's just a simple teleportation spell?"

"Do you not see the way there applauding him?" stated Trixie, "Sombra always said that magic could only be unsed to make ponies fear you, not applaud you!"

"Sombra said a lot of things," said Starlight rolling her eyes.

Sunset looked at Trixie and then up at the stage.

"Um Trixie, why don't you stay here and watch the show for a while? Starlight And I can come back for you later."

"Wait what," said Starlight confused as Sunset pulled her away.

"Yeah, yeah, you go right ahead," said Trixie not seeming to notice they had left.

Magician has ever pulled it off Hoofdini! He are supposed to blast himself into the open mouth of a hungry manticore! After the manticore chews him up and swallows him, he magically step out of a box on the other side of the stage!"

Meanwhile in the war room

Tempest Shadow just had finish explaining purpose of their Organization to onies in the room.

"So this is what Trixie was talking about," Flash mumbled.

Tempest glared at Flash, "What was that?"

"Um nothing," said Flash freezing up at the Unicorns icy stare.

"That blue unicorn and her big mouth..." mumble Tempest under her breath "As I was saying...Sombra has been moving his forces all across the Kingdoms surrounding Equestria...What confuses us, is that Sombra military powere to invade any of these kingdoms...Sure he has plently of minions...But none of them are cable of pulling off an invasion..."

"Isn't it obvious," said Thunderlane, "He's trying to reopen the gates of Tartarus and free the Titans."

Tepest Shadow and Tikbalang darted there eyes at Thunderlane with looks of pure unadulterated rage

"Sombra already has six keys" continued Tunderlane "We need to be ready in case he gets the final seventh key."

"He is not trying to free the Titans," Tikbalang eploded as he threw his hooves on the table.

Everypony in the room shivered as Alicorn spoke for the first time.

"It is physically impossible for any creature find the seventh key! I personally hid it no creature could ever reach it!" growled Tikbalang, "And even if he did find it, he would have to get past my armies, my Cerberus, and myself just to reach the Gate!"

"Yes, but..." said Thunderlane trying to speak up.

"IMPOSSIBLE!l" roared Tikbalang shaking the entire castle.

As the dust settled, Tempest spoke up.

"Anyway, on the the off chance Sombra is trying to pulls off something...We've decided to install safer security measure in case he strikes."

Tikbalang then used his magic on the table map. A magic wall began to appear on the map surrounding all of Equestria.

"This magic wall is to keep everypony and everycreature inside of Equestria safe," said Tempest Shadow.

"But..what about everycreature and everypony outside of the wall," said Queen Nightlight looking concerned.

The wall is enchanted to keep out only those with evil their hearts," Tempest esplained "Anypony seeking sanctuary in Equestria will still be allowd in..."

The King and Queen looked at each not entirely convinced

"Of course, we needed permission from the rulers of Equestria in order to build this," said Tempust, gesturing towards King Nightlight and Queen Velvet.

Both of them still looked perplex about this entire ordeal

"It is the law that King Sleipnir had passed," Tempest continued "We cannot go though with a plan this big with out the approval of the kings and queens of Equesatria."

"Well if it means protecting all of Equesatria then I guess that's okay," King Nightlight said turning to his queen, "What do you think dear?"

Queen Velvet thought for a minute still unsure, but then nodded yes.

"Well things are getting very serious," Flash whispered to Thunderlane. "Let's hope Sombra reallu never gets that final key."

"Indeed," Thunderlane whispered back. "But if he does let's hope this wall keeps him and his followers out. Other wise were all in big trouble."

Meanwhile

Sunset and Starlight were exploring together. As they trotted down the streets of Ponyville, Sunset looked thought the windows of the stores as they passed them by. A small smile began to appear on her face.

Suddenly her eyes grew wide as she saw a music shop. A bright orange guitar in the window caught her attention.

"Um Starlight," said Sunset pulling her friend towards the direction of the Store, "Why don't we check out his place for a bit."

The two Unicorns trotted in to see what the store to see had in store for them. Sunset gaze at the entirety of the store and was amazed. The walls were lined with cool guitars and other amazing instruments. Beautiful music could be heard playing over the stero, by the pony of pop herself Sapphire Shores.

"Cool!" The red maned unicorn said.

"In what way?" said Starlight confused.

Off in the corner the pony who ran the store was jamming with a friend. She wad white unicorn with blue spiky mane and tail music note with a star for a cutie mark. She was wearing a pair of dazzling shades and headphones. Her companion was a light gray earth pony with a dark grey mane, and a treble clef for a cutie mark. She bore a pink bow tie, and was attempting playing a large chello.

"No, no, no," the pony with a chello stated, "It needs to go more like this."

The pony with the Chello began strumming an elegant tune, much to the annoyance of her comrade.

The unicorn with the headphones, then began scratching out a beat on her turntable, much to the annoyance of the chelloist.

Sunset Shimmer watched as the mares struggled to work together, trying to create a beat. All of a sudden she got an idea and picked up the orange guitar in the window.

"Um excuse me," said Sunset approaching the two ponies, "I'm no music expert, but perhaps it would work better like this."

Sunset pointed a hoof at the chello pony, who began strumming her tune again. As she did so, began to jam on her guitar, the stringed intriments combining into a fantastic beat. Seeing this the headphones pony, began scratching down on her turntable, until all three had combined into a massive musical melody.

As the music stopped, the ponies applauded Sunset completely blown away by her work.

"Where in Equestria did you learn to play like thing?" the Chelloist asked.

"Oh I practices, a bit in my free time," said Sunset blushing.

"Um, Sunset," said Starlight approaching her sister from behind, "Shouldn't we get going?"

"Um, why you don't you go on ahead without me Starlight," said Sunset, "I'd kinda like to stay here for a while."

Starlight took one look at Sunset, hanging out with her two new pony friends. With a depressed sigh, she walked out the door alone.

Elsewhere

Flash Sentry and Thunderlane were trotting down the street, with huge boxes of donuts in their hooves.

"I can't believe Tempest shadow sent us out to get donuts," Thunderlane grumbled.

"Well your the one who kept bringing up King Sombra," Flash pointed out.

As they continued down the the streets, they suddenly saw Starlight Glimmer, sitting on a bench. The look on her face said it all, she was completely miserable.

Seeing this, Flash hand his stack of Donuts to Thunderlane, much to his lieutenant chargrin.

"Hey Starlight," said Flash sitting down beside the unicorn, "Where are Sunset and Trixie?"

"There fine!" snapped Starlight, "There both perfectly fine without me!"

Flash looked at the unicorn confused.

"I'm sorry," said Starlight regaining her composure, "It's just that for as long as I can remember it's been just the three of us. We were together when Sombra captured us, and we were together when we worked for H.O.R.S.E."

"So, what's the problem then?" asked Flash unaware of Thunderlane struggling behind him.

"H.O.R.S.E. doesn't want us anymore," said Starlight.

"Oh..." said Flash.

"Now Sunset and Trixie are out finding their own interests..." continued Starlight, "...Figuring out what they want so do with their lives...And here I am all alone."

"Well," said Flash thinking, "What have you always wanted to do.

"That's just it," said Starlight tearing up, "I have no idea what I want to do next...My whole I've been doing what other ponies told me to do...And when I wasn't I was doing things with Sunset and Trixie...Now I have nopony...

"But Starlight..." said Flash growing concerned, "That just isn't true..."

"There's no place in Equeatria for me anymore," said Starlight picking herself up from the bench, "I'll just take the next train out of Tambelon, and keep on going until I read the end of the line..."

Flash watched as Starlight walked off into distance, deeply concerned for her wellbeing. Behind him Thunderlane, finally lost his balance carrying the large stack of donuts, and fell to the ground in a pile.

Back at the Castle

The mane six, Soarin and Cheese were desperately trying to glance a peak at was going on inside the war room. Unfortunately they were on the wrong side of the door.

"I told you look thought the keyhole!" growled Rainbow Dash.

"There is no keyhole," snapped Soarin.

"I've got it," said Sunburst trotting down the hall with one of his spellbooks, "A spell that will turn this door completely transparent from this side."

"Excuse me children," said TrenderHoof.

He and TroubleShoes, were leaning up against the far wall completely annoyed with the groups antics.

"Won't Thunderlane be upset when he finds out your peaking in on their meeting?"

"Nonsense," said Sunburst, "What Thunderlane doesn't know won't hurt him."

"Sunburst!" a voice shouted out furious voice.

Everypony turned to see Thunderlane with a red face, and cover in donuts.

"You are coming with me to see Tikbalang!" the pegasus said grabbing his hoof.

"No! No! NO! I don't wanna Gooooooooo!" shouted Sunburst as he was dragged into the war room.

Everypony turned to Flash as he trotted close behind.

"What is going in there!?" asked Twilight confused.

"That's not important right now," said Flash, "What is important is that Starlight Glimmer is about to leave Equestria."

"Why in tarnation would she do something as foolish as that?" asked Applejack.

"She thinks that Trixie and Sunset have abandoned her," explained Flash "I need you ponies to go and find them so they can convince her to stay. I'd do it myself, but I'm a little preoccupied right now.

As Flash trotted back into the war room, Twilight turned to her friends with a serious look on her face.

"It's go time!" She then trotted pasted her friends to go find Starlight. "Come on everyone we are going to find Starlight."

"But what about finding out what's going on in that war room?" Asked Applejack

"That will have to wait this is more imported." Twilight said

Meanwhile back with Starlight

Srarlight was slowly making her way out of Tambelon, struggling to figure out what to do. Her head drooped downward as she struggle to figure out wuat to do as a free mare. Should she get a job in Tamplon? Work in a shop, a restaurant, maybe even a school? What?"

Suddenly she heard a large explosion.

Starlinght turned her head to see a schoolhouse on a hill smoldering ever so slightly. A pink was pushing out stallion with an hourglass cutie mark, along with his derpy eyed compaion.

"Thank you Doctor," said the pink mare into a tissue, "But I think your teaching style is a little to advanced for my students.

"Since when are you too young to learn quantum physics," the stallion in a necktie proclaimed, "Come along miss doo."

"What in Equeatria is going on?" asked Starlight glimmer appraoching a group of fillie and foals.

"Miss Cheerilee is sick," said an orange filly pegasus sitting on a scooter, "and the school really needs a substitute teacher!"

"And since she can't find a substitute teacher," said a small white unicorn, "She's been trying to see if she still could teach, but it turns out she can't."

"And we were all hoping she'd find one," said a small earth pony in a bow, "because we were all going to have a big field trip to the crystal mines and now it's history."

"Are you a substitute," asked the orange filly looking up at Starlight.

"Well technically," said Starlight confused.

"Great," said Applebloom pushing her forward, "Then you can fill in!"

Before Starlight knew what was happening the three fillies wer pushing her into the schoolhouse.

Meanwhile

Cheese, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Trenderfood, and Fluttershy were searching the streets of Tambelon for Trixie

"She's got to be around here somewhere," said Rarity.

"And we definetly can't give up now," said Fluttersly.

"Personally, said TrenderHoof, "I think we should give up and..."

Rarity gave her boyfriend a fierce glare.

"Nevermind," said TrenderHoof buttoning up.

"Everypony, look at this!" Shouted out Pinkie Pie.

"You've found her?" asked Rarity.

"Even better," said Cheese pointing to a large crowd pf ponies, "The Great Hoofdini is performing."

"How can you think of a magic show at a time like this," said TrederHoof hoofsmakcing himself.

"And now!" proclaimed the Great Hoofdini, "My lovely assitant will pick out a volunteer from the audience."

Trixie appeared beside the great Hoofdini, sporting a tophag and cape.

"Trixie!?" the group of friends all proclaimed in amazement.

"You sir!" said Trixie pointing directly at TrenderHoof.

The blue unicorn levitated TrenderHoof up to the stage and placed him in a large box. She then seperated the box into three pieces and shuffled them around in the air. The Great Hoofdini, then reassembled the box and opened it tossing out Trenderhoof onto the floor. The crowd cheered with amazement.

"I told them she shouldn't get involved," mumbled TrenderHoof, "I begged them not to get involved, but did anypony listen? No..."

Elsewhere

Sunset Shimmer was still practicing with her guitar in the park, with new friends the DJ and Octavia.

"Sunset Shimmer," a familiar voice called out.

She then turn to see Princess Twilight, along with Rainbow Dash, Soarin, Applejack, and TroubleShoes.

"Oh...hello...Princess," Sunset said rolling her eyes "I..."

"Please call me Twilight" the princess said placing a hoof on her shoulder, "We've heard you've got a problem."

"I don't have a problem," Sunset said pointing twoard her new friends "Besides, why would you want to help me after everything I've done to you and you're friends."

"Well I'm not one to hold a grudge," said Twilight with a smile, "And I seem to remembered you and you're sisters helping us a few times in the past."

"Beaides," chimed in Rainbow Dash, "We want to hear about all the awesome secret agent adventures you when on!"

"Well she can't tell us because they were 'SECRETS!'"Apple Said smacking her on the back of the head.

"Oh," RD said rubbing her head in disappointment.

"The point is," said Twiligth, "I think it's about time we returned the favor."

"Thanks," said Sunset turning away, "But I'll pass."

"But Starlight's about to leave Tambelon forever," cried out Soarin.

"What!?" cried out Sunset in a panic.

"Why is Starlight leaving Tambelon forever," Excalimed Trixie in a panic.

"She thinks that you and Sunset have moved on without her." Explained Rarity while Cheese and Pinkie Pie attempted to untie TrenderHoof from a tangle of rope.

"Move on without her," said Sunset, "That's ridiculous, sure we may go our different ways in the future, but were still a family.

"Maybe somepony should tell her that," said Applejack.

Trixie looked at the group of friemds, and them at the mew ones she had just made.

"DJ, were going to need Stereos," said Sunset, "And lots of them..."

Back at the Schoolhouse

Cheerilee was just walking Starlight out of the front door.

"Thank you very much your time miss Glimmer," said Cheerilee blowing her nose, "I think thos might just work."

Suddenly there was a large poof of magic right in front of the Schoolhouse. As Starlight eyes cleared, she saw a large stage had appeared in the middle of the playground, mchines poor out a fog in front.

"Fillies and Gentecolt," a familiar voice proclaimed over the mike, "The Great and Powerful Trixie presents...Live in Concert...The reunion of the Mares of H.O.R.S.E!"

DJ Pon-3 began turning up the music as light shined down on the stage revealing Trixie at a drumset and Sunset with her Guitar.

Slowly but steadily Sunset began performing a melody.

"… Took a leap, took a chance, super weird, to a world that's brand new," sang Sunset

"Oh-oh," Sang Trixie at her drums

"Now I'm stuck, got no plans,"

"Just my luck, I'll do the best that I can," Sang Sunset

"Whoa-oh," sang Trixiw

The schoolponies began to gather around the stage in excitement.

"… I'm making friends and enemies," sang Sunset

"It's weird, but hey, it's grown on me,"

"Oh-oh," sang Trixie

The school ponies began to gather around the stage in excitement, as Tixie and Sunset began singing together

"Ponys, dogs, dragons, whoa, it's gonna be a bumpy road"

"Magic duels, break for lunch"

"I think I actually love this bunch"

The fillies and and colts cheered move ponies joined the crowd, including Starlight.

"… It's no big deal, yeah, no big deal"

"Find a way to start again"

"Brush off the dirt and make some friends"

"It's no big deal"

"Yeah, no big deal"

"I feel at home in a place that shouldn't be real"

"Crazy strange, but it's no big deal"

From behind the curtains Twilight and Friends her watching.

"Oh, I hope this works," said Twilight biting her lip.

"Prettly good song" said Pinkin Pie munching popcorn, "But it could use a guitar solo."

At that exact moment, Sunset began jamming on her guitar playing a rocking solo. Meanwhile Trixe levitated Starlight onto the stage. The unicorn looked at her two sisters with a mile and all three began singing together.

"… Oh, it's no big deal, yeah, no big"

"Feel at home in a place that shouldn't be real"

"Evil fiends, but it's no big deal"

"Riding free, but it's no big deal" sang Sunset

"Making friends, but it's no big deal" sang Trixie

"Finally me, and it's no big deal" sang Starlight.

The entire crowd cheered as the sisters finished there performance. From behind the curtains Twilight smiled while her friends quietly applauded.

"Whatever comes next, we'll do it together," said Sunset putting a hoof on Starlight shoulder.

"Thank you Sunset," said Starlight smiling, "But the thing is, Miss Cheerilee kind of offered me an assistant teaching position here in Ponyville..."

Starlight pointed towards miss Cheerilee down in the crowd waving at the Unicorn.

"I start Monday morning," said Starlight.

"Oh thank goodness," said Trixie heaving a sigh of relief, "Because the Great Hoofdini just asked me to join him on his tour..."

The mustachioed unicorn magically appeared on the stage in a puff of smoke.

"We're head to Las Pegasus tomorrow," stated Trixie.

"But Sunset, this means you'll be alone," said Starlight.

"Eh, I'll be alright," said Sunset shrugging, "I've already made some new friends."

She pointed at DJ Pon-3 and Octavia who were waving to her from backstage.

"And wherever I end up next, I know my sister will always have my back," finsihed Sunset.

The three unicorns hugged as the crowd roared with applause.

Later that Night at Tambelon Castle

Flash Sentry, Thunderlane, and Sunburst watched as the H.O.R.S.E blimp took off.

"Sorry I couldn't convince Tikbalang about your theory on the Keys of Tartarus," said Sunburst gloomily.

"It's fine," said Thunderlane, "Nothing in Equestria could change that Alicorn's mind.

"I wonder if Twilight was able to do any bette," said Flash.

All of a sudden, the three stallions hear laughter down from the courtyard. They looked down to see Twilight and the others returning to the castle, along with Tixie and two familiar looking unicorns. Sunburst heart nearly jumped into his troat.

"That was amazing" said Rainbowdash rubbing wings with Sunset, "The most awesome concert ever!"

"Where in tarnation did you learn to play like that," asked Applejack.

"In the village where we grew up," a small voice spoke up.

Everypony turned to see Sunburst joined by Flash and Thunderlane

"Hey Starlight, spoke up Sunburst, "Hey...Sis..."

"Sunburst!?" Starlight and Sunset proclaimed in shock.

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!?" proclaimed Pinkie and Cheese their jaws dropping.

"Ugh, we're going to have to get involved again aren't we?" groaned TrenderHoof.

The Golden Apples

The story begins in morning at The Apple fields in Tambelpn castle. The Apples and Troubleshoes were enjoying breakfast with a cereal called 'Applejack's cereal.' Applejack have always found it odd that a cereal shared the same named as her, and the fact that it's not apple flavored.

but anyway Granny Smith entered the room screaming.

"It's that time of year agin!" shouted Granny Smith as she burat into the room.

She was wearing a large napsack and safari gear.

"Oh no," said Applejack hoofsmackimg herseld, "Not that time of year already."

"That's right!" proclaimed Granny Smith. "It is time once again for us to find the legendary Golden Apples!"

"WooHooo!" Shouted Apple Bloom leaping from her seat.

"Uggggggggggh..." groande Applejack and Big Mac," slumping back in there seats.

"Am I missing something here?" asked Troubleshoes confused.

Meanwhile at Tamplon Castle

Sunburst was having an akward breakfast with his long sister, Sunset, and his old friend, Starlight. And by alward, I mean nopony was eating. Thestallion levitated a cup coffed to himseld, taking a sip as the ponys all nervously stared at each other.

"So..." Sunset finally spoke up trying to break the tension, "It's been a long time hasn't it?"

"Sure has," Sunburst replied after he was done taking his sip. "About ten years worth...I thought I'd never see either you again."

"We thought the same about you," Starlight replied with a nervous smile along side Sunset.

"Anyways, Twilight mentioned that your Star Swirl the Bearded's apprentice," Sunset added trying to avoid the subject, "That's good..."

"Yeah, well...His previos apprentice kind of betrayed him..." said Sunburst akwardly.

"So we've heard..." said Starlight sheepishishly.

"Anyway, I'm learning a lot from him," Sunbrust said tryign to change the subject, "And I've herd you two and Trixie pony were working for H.O.R.S.E...That's good to know."

"Yeah it was fun while it lasted," Said Starlight. "But now that's over we can do what ever we want."

"Say why were you working for them again?" Sunburst asked

The two unicorn mares then glance at each other both not wanting to tell him that they were once working for King Sombra.

"Oh we just..." Starlight started to say before Sunset burst out.

"After they saved us from King Sombra, we figured we owe they!" Sunset said.

"Really?" Sunburst said

"Ummm...yes really!" Starlight said.

"Oh, that's a relief," sighed Sunburst, "After Sombra attacked our village I thought I'd never see either if you again.

"Yeah, that was a bad day for all of us," said Sunset thinking back darkly.

"So, where exactly have yountwo been all of this time?" asked Sunburst stil confused.

Sunset and Starlight darted there eyes twoards one another gritting there teeth

"That's all in the past!l proclaimed Sunset nervously. What's important now is that it's time for us to make life of our own..."

"And well here we are," said Starlight sheepishly

"Oookay," Sunburst said confused.

"But what about you?" Suset asked her little brothe, "What hasStar Swirl the Bearded is teaching you so far about magic."

"Oh plenty!" Sunburst replied with an nervous smile "He is teaching me the right magic against a Siren attack."

"Oh that's great," Starlight said, "Who knows maybe that will come in hoof some day."

Twilight Sparkle, Flash Sentry, and Spike were watchig the conversation from the hallway.

"You cut the tension in there with a knife," whispered Spike.

Back at the Apple Farm

Granny Smith had Big Mac, Applejack, Apple Bloom, and TrenderHoof lined up in the barn. She marched in front of them sirveying her troops.

"All right everypony," proclaimed Granny Smith, "You all know your assignments. This is gonna be the year! The year we finally find the Golden Apples!"

"Yes sir, ma'am sir!" Applebloom said giving a salute.

Applejack and Big Mac both looked at each other and then at Granny

"Granny you both love you," said Applejack

"Eeyup," agreed Big Mac.

"But...The Golden Apples are not Real!" finished Appejack.

"Nnope," agreed Big Mac.

"Why Applejack," proclaimed Granny Stmith, "I'm ashamed of ya'll. Has my own Grandaugher forgotten the Legend of the Golden Apples?"

"Ummm, Excuse me," Troubleshoes interrupted raising a hood. "What's exactly are Golden Apples?"

"I'm glad you asked big feller," Granny said pulling up a rocking chair and taking a seat.

"Eeeee, she's gonna tell the story!" said Apple Bloom squeezing Troubleshoes tightly.

"It all started long ago..." began Granny, "Long before the alicorns defeated the titans. Back when the Great Seedling created every plant, flower, tree and fruit known to Equeatria. And his greatest creation of all was the Golden Apples!"

"The great who?" asked Troubleshoes.

"The Great Seedling," explained Granny, "An ancient earth spirit stag like creature with the ability to keep crops that bloom forever."

"He's the one who plants all the seed across Equestria," whispered Apple Bloom.

"Anyhoo..." Granny continued, "A long time later, King Sleipnir and Queen Faust were having themselves a grand wedding and every creature in Equeatria gave them a gifts. But the greatest gift of all was a golden apple seed given to them by none other then the Great Seedling himself. The King and Queen planted that seed, and a golden apple tree bloomd into creation. And around that tree, bloomed the Everfree Forest, with the wildest creatures and the most delicion fruits ever known to pony kind. It's been said somewhere at the center of the Everfree Forest a whole orchard of golden apple trees bloom. It's ias real as you and ME...And it's been evey Apple's life long dream to get one of them apples, so that we can grow Golden Apple all of our own. I came close once...Ended up with Zap Apples instead...But this is the year were gonna find it!"

"Yeah!" shouted out Apple Bloom in excitement.

"Ya don't say." Troubleshoes replied interested.

"That's great Granny," said Applejack with a fake smile, "Why don't you finsih packing up."

As the old pony left the barn to go back to the farm house, her expression quickly changed.

"Ugh not this again," groaneed Applejack.

"Eeyup," groaned Big Mac in agreement.

"I still feel like I'm missing something here," said TroubleShoes.

"Big Mac and Applejack don't believe in the Golden Apples," whispered Apple Bloom.

"Apple Bloom," said Applejack conforting her sister, "You're Probably to young to understand this, but...Granny Smith has been searchin' for the Golden Apples since she was your age!"

"Eeyup," agreed Big Mac.

"And every year," Aj saidrolling her eyes. "She takes us to the eeverfree forest so we chase some old mare's tale!"

"Eeyup," agreed Big Mac.

"And every year," groaned Applejack, "She almost get's us killed in the process!"

"Eeyup," agreed Big Mac.

"And every year" proclaimed Applejack, "What do we all come home him? A whole lot of nothin'!

"Nnope," agreed Big Mac.

"The point is," finished Applejack, "The Apple family has combed the Everfree Forest a thousand times over. If the Golden Apple's were real, we would have found them by now."

"As I recall," said Granny Smith popping up behind Apple Jack, "Yoy used to love going on this here adventure when you were littler."

"Granny?!" said Applejack in a panic, "What I meant say was, I'm pretty sure Apple Bloom has outgrown this whole adveneure thing by now. Right, Apple Bloom?"

Applejack and Big Mac looked at their little sister with pleading eyes, only for the young pony to give them a cocky smile.

"Or maybe I'm finally big enough now to find them!" the yellow filly proclaimed strapping on her camping gear with a giant smile, "Who's with me?"

Granny couldn't help but chuckle seeing her youngest grandchild having fun.

Applejack and Big Mac, on the other hoof were not happy to see their grandmother were filling their sister's head with something so silly.

"Look's like we'all are goin' wether you like it or not," said Troubleshoes wrapping a hoof sround his girl.

He was still curious about the story Granny told them.

Later that day near the library.

Sunset, Starlight, and Sunburst were coming out of the Library with large piles of books. Suddenly Sunburst noticed the Apple Family trotting by.

"Oh hi Applejack," said Sunburst, "Where are you going?"

"We going to look for something that does not exist," said AJ rolled her eyes.

"Euype." agreed Big Mac

"Am I gonna have to give you two a talkin to again?" Granny asked.

"What they mean is," said Apple Bloom in excitement, "We're going on an adventures to find the legendary Golden Apples!"

"The Golden Apple?" asked Starlitght, "But they don't exist!"

Granny at the purple unicorn with a fury.

"Well King Sombra, spent years looking for them, and he was never able to..."

Sunset put a hoof on Starkight's mouth stopping her midsentence.

"Or...So I've heard," said Sunset looking at Sunburst nervously.

"Besides," said Sunburst adjusting his glasses, "The Everfree forest is an enless maze, filled with the some pf the maot dangerous creatures immaginable. Not event the Alicorns of Canterlot know how to navigate it. That's why King Sombra made it his base of operations."

"Of course we do," Granny said "He said no alicorn can tell us but he did say anything about no mortal ponies finding it, In fact he made it a challenge for us."

"That and the fact that he was banished there," said Sunset.

Sunburst eyed her suspiciously.

"Or, so I've heard," she finished biting hier tounge.

"Wait a minute," said TroubleShoes, "Sombra lives in the Everfree Forest? Ya'll sure you wanna go in there?""Cool your jets youngins," said Granny Smith," I've been searching the Everfree Forest for years...I sure as heck ain't never run into King Sombra."

"Even though that the Eeverfree forest is the domain of King Sombra?" AJ asked

"Besides," said Apple Bloom, "We haven't had any trouble from that guy in months. Even bad guys need a break."

Sunset and Starlight glanced at each other, knowing that the only reason that he hasn't attacked, was problay because planning something big! They know their former father is as smart as he is patient.

"But there are plenty of other dangers in he Everfree forest," said Sunburst, "TimberWolves, Cragodiles, Vampire Fruit Bats..."

"Nonsense," said Granny Smith, "I've been navigating those woods since i was a filly. There ain't nothin' in them I can't lhandle."

The unicona watched as the Apple Famliy amd Troubleshoes trotted away.

"Didn't we see a Golden Apple once when we were fillies?" asked Sunset.

"That was a Zap Apple," stated Starlight.

"What were you two doing in the Eevfree forest as fillies anyway?" Sunburst asked turning to Starlight and Sunset

The two unicorn mares started to sweat

"Oh...We were trying to escaped from King Sombra in the forest..." Blurted out Sunset

"Right, right!" Starlight agreed, "And we saw it...Trying to escape from King Sombra...When we were fillies...!

"Oh," said Sunburst still confused, " You know I think I read aomething about the Golden Apples once...We could it up, in case your interested.

"Okay," Sunset said "I don't hace practice today so might as well."

"And it's not Monday yet, so okay." Starlight agreed

"Excellent ." Sunburst added with a smile "This sounds like and adventure and I've always wanted to go on one. Alsothis would be a great way to impressed Star Swirl!"

Deep in the Everfree Forest

Granny Smith was leading the troupe forward throught the Everfree forest.

"Let's see...It's gotta be around here somewhere..." said Granny Smith looking at her map.

Apple Bloom was hooping along excitedly as they trudged forward. It TroubleShoes happy to see the you filly so excited. Then he noticed how miserable Applejack and Big Mac were.

"Ya know," said TroubleShoes approaching Applejack, "The Golden Apples could be real."

"Trust me, there not..." said Applejack with a groan.

"Nnope," said Big Mac in agreement.

"But, if nopony had ever found them before," said TroubleShoes, "How do you know for certain they're not real?"

"When ya'll start believin' in impossible thing?" asked Applejack in acusitory tone.

"Don't ya know?" asked TroubleShoes, "It was the day I met you!"

"Oh," said Applejack blushing slightly.

Big Mac Snorted angrily.

"We're Here!" proclaimed Granny Smith triumphantly

"Here where exactly?" Applejack asked.

Applejack and TroubleShoes looked up and saw an all two familiar and terrifying castle.

"Is that...?" asked TroubleShoes.

"...The Castle of Count BloodFang," finished Applejack

"Eeyup..." said Big Mac Swallowing hard.

Applejack took one look up at the castle, and then at Granny Smith.

"Beg pardon Granny," said Applejack approaching the old mare, "but...How Could You Bring Us Here!?"

"Old Count Blood Fang is obsessed with Apples," Granny Smith stated putting her map away, "If anypony is gonna have the Golden Apples it's gonna be him."

"He's obsesse with Apples...Because He's a Vampire Pony!" shouted Applejack, "Who once tried to tirn Fluttershy into a Vampire Pony!"

"Relax youngin'," said Granny Smith, "Old BloodFang only comes out at night...And it's the middle of broad daylight."

"Sorry Granny, but I'm puttin' my hoof down," said TroubleShoes, "No good can come from goin' into that castle.

"Please TroubleShoes," Apple Bloom asked while giving the stallion the cutest puppy dog face she could muster.

TroubleShoes couldn't resist.

"Oh alright, but we haveta be careful..."

Apple Bloom and Granny Smith hoof bumped each other.

Applejack and Big Mac both rolled their eyes again.

Inside BloodFang's Castle

The Apple Family and Troubleshoes were carefully sneaking about, trying not to make a sound.

"This place loos deserted," said Applejack gritting her teeth.

"Well we beat him last time we were here," said TroubleShoes, "Maybe he flew the coop..."

"Ah don't think so," said Granny Smith with a condfident smile.

They had come upon a large throne room, with the largest pile of apples the ponies had ever seen. Towers of apples filled up the wall, of every shape and variety.

"Everypon pick a corner and start searchin'," said Granny Smith.

Granny, Apple Bloom, and TroubleShoes all began digging amongst the apples. Applejack and Big Mac leaned up against a wall looking annoyed.

"Mmmmm...Wapples..."

A sudden aound caught Appljack's attention. The Earth pony slowly looked up, and to her horror she saw Count BloodFang hanging upside down from the chandelier, fast asleep.

"Um...Granny," said Applejack with Beads of sweat appearing on her brow.

"Just a minute sweetheart," said digging through a pile of Golden Delicious.

"Mmmmm...Wapple Cider..." Count BloodFang mumbled from above.

"Beg pardon Granny, but..." said Applejack desperately pointing above her.

"Jusra moment," replied Granny still searching.

"Mmmmm...Wapples under glass..." mumbled the count.

"Grannnnnnny..." mutered Applejack as she and Big Mac tried to catch her attention.

"I think I found it!" said Applebloom pulling an apple from the bottom of a large pile.

The entire pile collapsed collapsed creating a large rumbling throughout the entire hall. Count BloodFang's eyes shot open.

"And he found us!" said Applejack in a panic.

Count BloodFang leapt down from his floated down to ponies.

"Granny Smith!" proclaimed the furious count, "You dare to enter my castle...AGAAAAAIN!"

"You've done this before?" asked TroubleShoes in disbelief.

"Well," said Granny, "where else is a pony supposed to look for..."

"The Golden Wapples" said Couns BloodFang rolling his eyes, "I've told you before! They don't exist you craxy coot! You like Wapples?! Well how do you like these Wapples."

Count BloodFang swooped down twoards the ponies, and tried to take a swipe at Apple Bloom. TroubleShoes quickly rushed over to her and threw her onto his back. Applejack, Big Mad, and TroubleShoes all started running around the throne room as they tried to avoid the vampire pony.

"Granny!" shouted Applejack, "Do Something!"

"Just a minute sweetheart," said Granny digging through her napsack.

Count BlooodFang had Applejack cornered into a far wall.

"Look into my Eyes!" proclaimed the Count.

"Ah, here it is!" said Granny.

The old pony pulled out a necklace of garlic from her napsack. She then proceeded to toss it over to Applejack, which landed on her neck.

"Eeeeeeeek! Garlic!?" screamed the Count.

He quickly flew back up to the chandelier, and wrapped his wings around him so tightly thst no pony cound see him.

"Go.." whimpered Count BloodFang, "...and take that monster with you..."

Everypony looked at Granny Smith ad the pointe a hoof in her direction.

"Welp, they weren't here," said Granny.

Back in Sunburst's labratory

Sunburst was looking through 'The True History of Equestria:A Documentation of the Primordial Mysteries that the Alicorns Don't Want You to Know About'. Sunset and Starlight were watching him nervously as he did so.

"So when exactly are we planning to tell him about our history with Sombra?" asked Starlight with concern.

"I'm kinda hoping to avoid then subject," said Sunset gritting her teeth.

"It's not exactly like we had an option in the matter," said Starlight, "I mean he forced us to do most of those things."

"I have just reunited with my brother," said Sunset, "I'm not about to ruin that by bring up that was working for Sombra...regarles of the circumstances."

"Ah, here it is," said Sunburst, "'The Golden Apples'!"

Sunburst began reading the page to himself. As he read it, his expression quicky changed.

"Oh no," said Sunburst, "This is not good..."

"What is it asked?" asked Starlight.

"We've got to catch up with Applejack and her family right now!" stated Sunburst rushing put of the room.

Back in the Everfree Forest

The Apples and Troubleshoes were brushing themselves off after their harrowing experience.

"Well that was an experience," said TroubleShoes.

"An experience!?" proclaimed Applejaack, "We almost got ourselves killed! We almost got Apple Bloom killed!"

"Eeyup!" said Big Mac annoyed.

"I'll admit, that last plan was a bit of a stretch," said Granny looking at her map, "But now I'm certain I've got my bearings."

Applejack and Big Mac scowled.

"Relax Sis," said Apple Bloom, a bit unsure "Granny knows what she's doin'..."

"Halt! Who goes there!"

The ponies were suddenly surrouned by an army of deer clad armor.

"...Or not," whimpered Apple Bloom hugging Troubleshoes tightly.

The army deer lovweres there heads pointing their sharp atlers at the ponies. Out of the herd a tall white stag clad in golden armor stepped forward.

"Granny Smith!" proclaimed the stag, "What are you doing in our territory?"

"King Aspen?" replied the Granny Smith, "What are you doin' in the Everfree Forest?"

"This is the borederline of the Whitetail Woods," stated King Aspen matter of factly, "The Everfree Forest is in that direction."

"Whoops!" said Granny turning her map upside down, "Must have gotten turned around."

Big Mac and Applejack growled at their Granny.

"Beg pardon sir," said Apple Bloom nervously, "but we were just lookin' fer..."

"...The Golden Apples," said King Aspen with a sigh, "We've told you before Granny, they don't exist."

"Don't Exist!" proclaimed Granny, "Does a Manticore Not Exist? Does a Hydra Not Exist? Does Sass Squash Not Exist?"

"What in tarnation's a Sass Sauach?" asked TroubleShoes.

"Don't even ask.."Applejack muttered under her breath.

"Ah'm surprised to hear the Crown Prince of the deer, of all creatures, saying that the Golden Apples aren't real!" said Granny looking King Aspen in the eye.

King Aspen signed, "Listen well Granny Smith...Our herd have memorized every plant, flower, tree and fruit that our founder, the Great Seediling, ever created...If the Golden Apples Existed, we would know ablut them."

"The Golden Apples," a small voice spoke up, "I saw one once!"

A small fawn popped up beside King Aspen.

"Shhh, quiet Bramble," said King Aspen

"I did Papa, I really did once," said the small fawn.

"You have!?" proclaimed bothe Granny Smilth and Applebloom at once.

"You'll have to forgive my son, he has an overactive imagination," said King Aspen.

"You have ro coem with us and show up where it is!" said Apple Bloom tugging on Bramble's hoof, "Please! Please! Please! Please! PLEASE!"

King Aspen stared down at his fawn and the earth filly. They both gave him the cutest puppy dog face she could muster.

"Ugggh," groaned King Asepn, "Be quick about it."

"Hooray!" proclaimed both Applebloom and Bramble.

"The more the merrier," proclaimed Granny Smith.

TroubleShoes smiled sheepishly, while Applejack and Big Max groaned.

Deep in the Everfree Forest

King Aspen was leading the Apples and Troubleshoes forward. Applejack and Big Mac were still not to thrilled about this little adventure. Granny and Apple Bloom were more thrilled than ever. This time they'd finally find the golden apple tree. Trouble Shoes wasn't sure what to feel, he was just fiddling with his hammer.

"Okay I think the tree should be this way," Bramble said leading them forward.

They were then making their way forward, when Applejack whispered to TroubleShoes

"Are we sure this little critter knows where he's goin'?"

"Of course I know," said Bramble, "We take a left turn to past nests of the Stymphalian birds...carful not to wake them...Then take 12 steps to the next bath between the pillars of Rockhoof...and finally were right under King Sombra's mountain..."

"Wait...What?" said TroubleShoes dropping his hammer.

The ponies looked up at the all too familiar mountain with a castle at the top, bad memories flowing back to them.

"You took us to King Sombra's Mountain!?" said Applejack grabbing Bramble by the collar.

"This cannot possibly be the place," said TroubleShoes

"Nnope..!" said Big Mac sweating bullets.

"Of course it's the place," said Bramble, "I know this forest like the back of my hoof."

"Well who'd have thought," said Granny Smith, "The Gloden Apples, right under King Sombra's evil nose the whole time."

"Yeah and now so are we," AJ said pulling Apple bloom close her.

"Maybe we should just turn back," said Troubleshoes, "If this tree exist it's not worth the trouble."

"What?" Said Apple Bloom "but we've already come this far"

"Besides," said Bramble pointing upwards, "King Sombra lives all the way at the top of the mountain, and he hardly ever comes down."

"I'm telling ya fellas," a familiar voice spoke up, "This is the prefect place to play poker."

They all turned to see none other then Cujo holding a deck of cards. He and the Diamond Dogs were on the in a nearby clearing blaying cards. None of them seemed to have noticed the ponies

"Thought you might want to make sure your not seen by his followers," said Bramble nervously.

"Flush!" proclaimed Cujo, "I win again!"

"You always win!" said Rover slapping himself in the face, "Are you cheating again?"

"Of course not boys," said Cujo sneaking a card out from under his had, "I'm insulted by the insinuation."

Applejack, TroubleShoes, and Big Mac looked over at the Diamond Dogs and then at each other.

"Oh no Granny," said Applejack, "We've done a lot of crazy things today, but if we stay here we're gonna die. I can live with crazy, I can't live with...Your already headed over there aren't you?

Applejcak looked over to see Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, and Bramble silently sneaking past the Diamond Dogs.

Applejack and Big Mac looked at each other for a moment and then begrudgingly decide to follow.

"What do you know! Another Flush!" proclaimed Cujo unaware of the ponies sneaking around the trees behind him.

"Something fishy is most definitely going on around here," said Spot unaware of Apple Bloom popping up her head from a bush.

"Fish? I thought we were playing poker?" said Fido as Granny pushed Apple Bloom's head back down.

"He said fishy," Rover stated slapping Fido on the back of the head, "Not Go Fish!"

The ponies crept forward, low to the ground. Granny at the front, Bramble behind her, followed by Apple Bloom, Applejack, Troubleshoes, and Big Mac. As they crept forward, Bramble's fluffy tail began to tickle Apple Bloom's nose.

"Ah...ah...AhCHOOOOOO!" Sneezed Apple Bloom loudly.

"Gesundheit." The Dogs said to Apple Bloom

"Thanks," Apple Bloom replied

Then a sudden look of realization on their faces came of their faces and The Diamond Dogs all turned to see the ponies lined up on the ground. Seeing an opportunity Cujo turne to his gang with a sinister grin and said.

"Well boys look like we are going to have to take a rain check on that poker game." Cujo said putting the cards away and bearing his fangs, "Because we've got some uninvited guest who just found trouble."

Sunburst, Sunset, and Starlight raced through the Everfree Forest, desperately trying to catch up to the Apple Family.

"Remind me why we're in such a hurry again?" said Sunset trying to catch her breath.

"It's what I read I about the Golden Apples," explained Sunburst, "Apparently when the Alicorns planted them, they were so delicious that everypon want them for themselves. Pretty soon fighting broke out amongst the ponies. So, thengreat Seedling created the Everfree Forest around the Golden Apples, so that nopony could ever find them again. They litteraly can't be found...Something tells me the Apple's are in big trouble.

"I think your overreacting a tiny bit," said Sunset, "

"She right," said Starlight "Even if we get spotted, we're unicorns, we can just teleport ourselves away.."

"Um, I think you spoke to soon, said Sunburst looking ahead.

Up ahead of them, the unicons saw a fight/chase ensuing in front of the. Applejack wasusing her lasso to rangled up some of the dogs while protecting Applebloom and Bramble who were hiding behind her. Big Mac and TroubleShoes were using their earth pony strength to knock out some reserve Diamond Dogs, that had shown up unannounced. Sunburst jumped in to protect Granny smith with his magic, althought the old pony seemed to handling herself just fine.

Sunset and Starlight were about to join, when they suddenly came face to face with their former ally Cujo.

"Well Well, Well," Cujo said still having his sinister smile on his face. "If it ain't the boss's traitorous daughters."

"Daughters!?" Sunburst shouted in surprised

"Well explain later!" Sunset shouted to him

"And if it isn't King Sombra's lapdog," Starlight said "Still doing whatever that evil jerk says?"

"This was supposed to be my day off!" Cujo said "Unntil these ponies showed up! And now here you are!"

Two Daimond Dogs leapt down and tackled Starlight and Sunset. Sunburst could see they were outnumbered, so he turned to the Apple Family.

We'll hold them off," said Sunburst, "Run for it."

Sunburst began blast magic away as the Apples, Troubleshoes, and Bramble fled. The partly kept on runing, untile they slipt, and fell down an underground cave at the side of the mountain. One by onr the ponies and Bramble toppled on top of each other, until Granny landed at the top of the pile.

"Welp, that didn't go according to plan," said Granny.

"Nnope!" said Big Mac picking himseld up from of the pile.

"Ya think!?" exclaimed Applejack in pure frustration.

"No need to get snippy," said Granny dusting herself off, "Why don't you youngins take a breather, while I take another look a the map."

"Another look at the map!?" said everypony in disbelief.

"O'course," said Granny, "We're closer than ever to finding the Golden Apples."

"The Golden Apples!?" exclaimed eveypony. Even Applebloom couldn't believe what she was hearing.

TroubleShoes took one look at the group, and then stormed over to Granny.

"Granny Smith, enough is enough!" said TroubleShoes pulling the map away from her, "I've been tryin' my darndist to stay optimistic about all of this,but the fact is it's time to call a quits. We've been attacked more times than I can't count in this forest, and quite frankly I don't think the youngins can handle it anymore. I know how important it is for you to find the Golden Apples but...Well...I think it's time for us to accept the fact that there's a chance they don't exist..."

Granny Smith looked at TroubleShoes for a moment.

"Well, duh," said Granny.

"Excuse me?" said TroubleShoes in disbelief.

"I've always known there was a chance that the Golden Apples don't exist," said Granny, "I ain't crazy ya know."

"Then...I'm sorry...What this all about?" asked TroubleShoes.

"Truth is," said Granny, "If I gave up searchin' for the Golden Apples, I'd have nothin' to dream about anymore.

Everypony in the cave fell silent for a moment. Even Applejack and Big Macintosh felt bad.

"Um everypony," said Applebloom from aound the corner of the cave, "Ya'll might wanna see this."

The group made their way further down the cave past a a large tangle of vines. As they went past them, they found themself in a gorgeous chamber with water flowing down from the ceilings. At the center a small pond sat a a gorgeous tree with a golden trunk, and leaves of brilliant red and orange. Hanging down from these leaves were the one true golden Apple. The ponies eyes grew wide as dinner plates as they were amazed that the legends were true.

"I told you I'd seen them before," said Bramble coming up from behind the ponies.

Granny turned to turn to her older grand kids with a sly smirk and asked "Still think it's an old mare's tale?"

"Well I'll be!?" Was all AJ said

"Eyupe!" Big Mac said

"We founded it!" The Apple Bloom cheered "Ah can can't believe we've finally found it!"

"I'm just surprised we found it at all," said TroubleShoes.

"Um ponies," said Bramble pointing at something.

From behind the tree trotted out a tall elegant elk. It's coat was covered in leaves, starting out red, and flowing down it's back all the way to bright green. It's atlers were branches with rich ripe apples hanging down from them. It took one look at the visitors, and it's eyes began.

There was a bright flash of light, and when ponies eyes cleared, the tree was gone leaving only a few apples and some leaves.

"Was that the Great Seedling!?" asked Applebloom in Disbelief.

"That sly dog," said Granny Smith, "No wonder nopony cam ever find the Golden Apples. He's been hiding them this entire time."

"Well we've got the apples," said Bramble picking one up, "But what are going to do about the Diamond Dogs?"

TroubleShoes picked up ond of the apples, feeling how heavy and sturdy it was.

"I think I've got an idea."

Back in the forest, Cujo and the Diamnond Dogs had Sunset, Starlight and Sunburst tied up, with anti magic rings in their horns.

"Once I bring you to the boss he'll be pleased," said Cujo, "I may even find myself getting a promotion."

Sunburst looked at the two mares, still in disbelief.

"Look I'll explain everything once we get free," said Sunset.

"Ha, fat chance of that happeneee..."said Cujo as a large Golden Apple smacked him in the face.

"Direct hit," proclaime Granny Smith

From up in the trees Applejac, Big Mac, Applebloom, and Bramble pelted Golden Apples down at the Diamond Dogs. Granny Smith direct their fire, as the unsuspecting Diamond Dogs fled for cover. While they they were distracted, TroubleShoes snuck down and remved the rings from Starlight and Sunset.

"Dog up you coward!" shouted Cujo, "There just apples."

Cujo charged twoards the unicorns, but while he was a few feet away Starlight and Sunset blasted him back into a tree. The tree shook, causing Granny in the limbs above to drop a golden apple which landed on Cujo's .The ponies and Bramble then leapt ground while the dogs were attending to their boss. They quickly picked up as many apple were able to get there hooves on.

"Okay it's time to go!" Starlight said as she and Sunset used their magic to teleport everyone back to Ponyville.

As the stars cleared around Cujo's head, he suddnlynsaw the Golden Apple sitting out in front of him.

"Well at least we can bring the boss one of these." Cujo said

Later back at Ponyville

The Apples and Trouble Shoes were planting a few of the apple seed int their fields bakc at he castle. Whole they were doing this, Starlight and Sunset were telling Sunbrust everything about how King Sombra forced them to do his evil deeds and about HORSE gave them a second chance.

"And that's everything that happen." Sunset said in a sad voice.

"Why did you two tell me this?" Sunbusrt asked

"We were afraid you'd think we were as villainous as King Sombra." Starlight said with sad voice.

"Lesson time girls," Sunbrust said, "I'd never think of you two like that...To be perfectly honest, I was keeping a secret too. I was afraid to tell you that I'm still learning the basics with Star Swirl."

"You are?" They both said in unison.

"Yes," Sunburst said with his sad voice "I'm not that powerful of a wizard. That's why star Swirl had me stay in Tamplon...So I can learn more. Personally, I'm just happy that you two are okay."

"So are we little bro," Sunset said as she and Starlight had group hug with Sunbrust.

Out in the fields Granny Smith was just finishing up planting the last of the seed.

"And that takes care of that!" said Granny.

"How long did Bramble say it would take these seed to grow?" asked Applebloom.

"According to his father," said Ganny, "some time between a year and a hundred years."

"Eeyup," said big Mac.

"Ya knwo it would really help if we knew more about the Golden Apple seeds," said Applejack.

"Maybe..." said TroubleShoes.

"Yes," said Granny and Applebloom.

"..Maybe it would help, it we went out and looked for them again," finished TroubleShoes.

"Yeah!" cheered Granny and Applebloom.

"Ugh, here we go again, groaned Applejack.

"Eeyup," sighed Big Mac.

Get Cozy

We open with King Sombra's lair in midnight castle

We see King Sombra at his throne frustratingly crossing another location off on his map of all of Equestria.

"Where is it!?" The evil king growled as he threw the map to the ground.

The doors opened revealing his followers and allies; Catrina, Zeb, Queen Chrysalis, Wind Rider, Lightning Dust, Don Grifon, Charlatan, Ma Hydia, Ahuizotl, and Dr. Caballeron.

"Have any of you managed to find the final key," The shadow king asked in a fearsome voice, "Or at the very least it's hidden location?"

The other villains just shook their head in fear of what their leader will do to them.

"Wonderful!" King Sombra roared in anger, "Where could my acursed family had hidden the final key...Our one chance of conquering all of Equestria!"

"Well boss," Zeb said with a tip of his hat, "We've looked every where and no dice, and If you asked me..."

"Shut up!" King Sombra order

"My lord," Catrina intervened "All of us been working very hard to find it perhaps we could take a break."

King Sombra thank for a moment and then said "Huh, Perhaps your right... Very well, who here would like to take the day off for today off...?

Dr. Cabelleron shyly raised his hood, "Um actually, I woulldn't mind..."

With a suddn blast from his horn, King Sombra shot Cabelleon out of a nearby stain glassed window.

"Would anyone else like a day off!?" Boomed King Sombra,

The rest of thr minions shook their heads nervously.

"Excellent," growled Sombra, "Then get back to..."

"What up Boss!" a voice shouted.

Everyone glared as Cujo enterd into the room.

"Cujo," said Catrina pinching her brow, "This is the worst possible time."

"But look would I got off of Sunset and Starlight," proclaimed Cujo.

"Wait," said Sombra with a small fire smoldering, "You saw Sunset and Starlight"

"Yep," siad Cujo proudly.

"Did you capture them?" asked Sombra.

"Um, nope," said Cujo then told him everything that had happen.

"So, let me get this straight," said Sombra approaching the Diamond Dog as his rage slowly grea, "You had both Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer within your grasp, not to menrion Star swirl's apprentice, and you were chase away by some farm ponies and a little deer!?"

"Huh, well yeah," said Cujo nervously "but we got you these..."

Cujo oppened his bag, and showed Sombra thr golden apple that he picked up during the battle.

"The Golden Apples?" King Sombra asked skeptically.

"Yep," said cujo with a smile.

"You brought me the Golden Apples," said Sombra raising eyebrow.

"Sure did." Cujo said picking one up and biting into it.

Sombra smaked the bag of apple out of Cujo's paws im a fury.

"You IDIOT! There's no such thing as the GOLDEN APPLES!"

"But I.." said cuji crouching down in terro

"..And even if there were, HOW IS THAT GOING TO HELP ME IN ANY WAY?" King Sombra ROARED.

"Well, everyone needs a snack once and a while," Cujo shiverd attemptin to hand Sombra his apple "Here try it, just be carful no to eat the center."

"CUJO YOU...!" King Sombra didn't get to finish as a light bulb light up is head suddenly went off, "...Brilliant K9 creature!"

"I am?" Cujo said disbelief

"Did he just used Cujo and Brilliant in the same sentence?" Queen Chrysalis asked her jaw dropping

"Of course, don't you see it!" King Sombra said rising on his thorn. "We'be being looking everywere on earth for the final key. What we need to do is look twoards the centerof it!"

"I don't follow," said Catrina.

"You will," said King Sombra said sinisterly

Meanwhile in Ponyville

Starlight was leading the school ponies to a the caves just outside of Tambelon.

"Single file now," Said Starlight "We want to get there in good time."

At the back Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Cozy Glow were chatting amongst themselves.

"Ah can't wait to see the crystal mines." Apple Bloom said

"What so special about the mines again?" Asked Sweetie Belle

"According to my research," explained Cozy Glow, "The crystals have magical properties that ponies have been using for generaions."

"Well this should be fun," said Scootaloo "As long as we're out of the school house, who cares wherewe go."

"Alright fillies and colts," Said Starlight, "I present to you, The Crystal Mines!"

The young ponies eyes open wide as they saw the enteace to the cave. Deep within it, hundredsupon thousands of dazzling gems shimmers, each one a different color. The entrie class began racing forward, only for Starlight to stop them.

"Settle down now," said Starlight. "These caves aren't exactly safe, and they're easy to get lost in. I want each for you to assemble into groups of four."

Apple Bloom Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Cozy Glow looked at each other and hoof bumped.

"Excellent. now I have a list of gems for each of you," Said Starlight "You're assignment is to identify as many as you can find in the caves."

Later on fillies and colts were busy exploring the Crystal Mines

"How about this one Cozy Glow?" Asked Apple Bloom as she plucked plucked another gem from thewall.

"That's a rose quartz." Explain Cozy Glow. "That seventeen gems off our list."

"That amazing!" Said Sweetie Belle "How do you know so much?"

"Oh I'm just really good at studying," Said Cozy glow blushing

"Ugh, could you be any more of a nerd?" snarled a voice

The fillies turned to see Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

"Can she be even more of a weirdo?" said Silver Spoon

"No wonder the only friend she has are those blank flanks," Diamond Tiara stated.

Tears began to well up in Cozy's eyes as the bullies laughed at her.

"Just ignore them Cozy," Said Apple bloom putting a hoof around pink pegasus's shoulder.

"Yeah she just jeouls couase you're smarter then her," Said Scootaloo

The three Crusaders helped Cozy glow trot away from the bullies.

"Uh excuse me," A voice spoke up.

Diamond Tiara and Silver spoon turn to see Snips and Snails digging for gems.

"Shouldn't you be helping us?" Snips asked

"We are helping," said Diamond Tiara, "We're supervizing."

From a small distance Rumble, Button Mash, First Base, and Tinder Tapes watched as Crusaders and Cozy Glow walked off.

"Shouldn't we follow them?" Asked Tender Tapes

"Uh, no. Why?" Asked Frist Base digging up a gem.

"Because they are wandering off," explained Tender Tapes, "And Miss Starlight told us all to stay together."

"They're big fillies," Said Rumble "They can take care of themselves."

"Huh? Sorry, what?" Asked Button Mash as he looked up from his hoof held game.

"You could help us ya know," Said Rumble

Apple Bloom Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Cozy Glow continued down a nearby tunnel.

"You really shouldn't listen to the things Diamond Tiara says," explained Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah she always says mean things to us, and we don't mind," said Apple Bloom.

"It's not that," said Cozy Glow wiping away, "It's just...I've alwasy struggled with making friends...And finally thought I was improving."

"Diamond Tiara is not the kind of pony you want as a friend," said Scootaloo matter of factly.

"And besides you've already got a great group of friends right here," explained Applebloom.

Cozy Glow smiled as the Crusaders comforted her.

"Um guys," said Sweetie Belle, "Where did the rest of the group go."

The four fillies looked around, realizing that they were in a part of the mines they didn't recognize.

"That's funny," said Cozy Glow, taking a look at their map, "I could have sworn I was following the map Miss Starlight gave us."

"Please tell me we are not lost," Apple Bloom said

"I don't think we are," Sweetie Belle said

"Well, if we are, what can we do?" Asked Scootaloo

"Well looks like we have to go with our gut," Said Cozy as she pointed to the left tunnel, "In fact my gut is telling me me that we should go this way."

Meanwhile with Starlight Glimmer

Starlight Glimmer was taking count of all the students running about as they continued their assignment.

"Let's see Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, Snips, Snails, Twist, Sunny Daze, Peachy Pie, Pipsqueak, Featherweight, Rumble, Zipporwhill, Tender Taps, First Base, Toola Roola, Coconut Cream, Button Mash, Wind Sprint, and...Wait!"

The unicorn suddenly began to panic

"Where are Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Cozy Glow!?"

Starlight Glimmer glanced around finally look as last place she saw them.

turn to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. "Girls," said Starlight Glimmer as she approached Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, "Have you seen Apple Bloom Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Cozy glow?!"

"Don't know don't care." Diamond said

Starlight Glimmer gave the unicorn filly a stern glare.

"What she means is," said Silver Spoon nervously, "We haven't seen those four all day.

Starlight Glimmer got right in front of the two fillies faces, so much so Diamond Tiara started to get a little scared

"Okay, Okay they when to that tunnel!" Diamond Tiara said pointing desperately.

"Ugh," Starlight sighed, "Attention students, change of plans, we will now be going deeper into the mines... Please stay with your assigned group at all times, and try not to wander to far from your teacher...

"Is something wrong," asked Tender Taps approaching Starlight.

"Nothing's Wrong!" said Starlight in a panic.

Tender Taps looked a bit frightened by her response.

"But," said Starlight quickly regaining her composure, "If you should happen to spot somepony who seems to be missing, please inform me.

Deep within the Tunnels

Cozy Glow was leading the crusaders deeper and deeper within the mines.

"Beg pardon, Cozy Glow," said Apple Bloom nervously, "Are you sure this is the way back to the class?"

"Um, well..." said Cozy Glow shaking a bit.

"Relax," said Scootaloo, "Cozy Glow knows what she's doing."

"Actually..." said Cozy Glow starting to tear up.

"That's right," agreed Sweetie Belle, "Cozy Glow know's just about everything."

"Waaaaahaahaaahaaaaaaaaa!"

The Crusaders all turned to see Cozy Glow bursting into tears.

"I don't know everything! I don't know where we are! And I don't know how to get us back to the claaaaaaaasssssss!" wailed Cozy Glow.

The Crusaders quickly rushed over to the weeping pegasus to try and comfort her.

"That's okay Cozy Glow," said Applebloom, "Ya'll don' need to know everything to impress us."

"That's right agreed," Sweetie Belle, "I'm sure Miss Starlight and the others will find us eventually.

"Right," said Scootaloo, "Everything is going to be A-okay!"

All of sudden the ground crumbled beneath the floor of the four fillies. Cozy Glow and the Crusaders screamed as they tumbled down a tunnel far to the earth below.

Back with the Class

Starlight Glimmer was leading the fillies and colts deeper and deeper into the tunnels, all th while nervously looking at her map.

"Single file students," said Starlight nervously, "I know the tunnels are tight, but try to stay close...And don't any adjacent tunnels...These mines are a maze and we wouldn't want to lose anypony."

"Is it just me," whispered Tender Tapes, "Or is our substitute hiding something..."

"I'll tell you what else I've noticed," said Rumble, "I haven't seen Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, or Cozy Glow in quite a while."

"Huh, what happened to who now," said Button Mash still playing his game.

"Snap out of it," said Rumble swiping the game away from him, "We've got act fast. I say the next chance we get, we duck into that adjacent tunnel, and for your sister and her friends ourselves."

"But guys," said First Base, "Miss Starlight told us to stay with the class at all times. We can't just..."

The young colt turned to see that his friends had already gone.

"Ugh," groaned First Base.

"Step lively now," continued Starlight, "Step lively."

"This is boring," said Diamond Tiara, "Want to duck out?"

"But Miss Starlight told us to stay with the class," pointed out Silver Spoon, "We can't just leave..."

"Relax," said Diamond Tiara, "Out buddies can cover for us."

"Does this look like a rare gemstone," asked Snips

"I'm pretty sure that's just a rock," said Snails

"They're all rocks," said Snips, "Who can tell the difference."

Diamond Tiara looked unsure for a moment, then finally followed her friend.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The Crusaders and Cozy Glow screamed as they continued to tumble down the secret tunne.

All of a sudden they screeched to halt a tumble out into an open cavern.

"Well that was interesting," said Sweetie Belle still in shock.

"At least the worst is over," said Scootaloo.

"Dig faster you dogs!"

"Oh no," squealed Apple Bloom.

The four fillies peaked over a nearby rock formation to see Cujo lean back on a Stalagmite while Rover, Fido, and Spot dug deeper into the ground.

"That key ain't gonna find itself," said Cujo sipping some lemonade.

"Wait a minute," said Rover halting his digging, "Why are we doing this!?"

"To find the final Key for King Sombra.." explained Spot only for Rover to cover his mouth.

"I know, I know," said Rover, "But why isn't he helping?"

"I am helping," said Cujo toasting with his lemonade, "I'm supervising."

"Oh, thanks boss," said Rover he continued his digging.

Cujo was half glad that his dogs were even more dumber then him...Wait?

"Why do we keep running into these guys," asked Scootaloo hoof smacking herself.

"Aren't these the thugs, who broke into the castle?" asked Cozy Glow looking confused.

"What was that key they were talking about," asked Sweetie Belle.

"Who cares," said Apple Bloom, "We've got to get out of here before they notice us."

"She's right," agreed Cozy Glow, "If they're still as bad as they were before, we don't want them spotting us."

The four fillies crept down on to the ground trying slink away unnoticed.

"Hmm that's weird," said Cujo scratching his chin, "I'm getting the weirdest sense of Deja Vu."

As the the four fillies made their way back to the tunnel Sweetie Belle accidentally bumped a nearby Stalagmite. The Stalagmite, slowly began to tip over, hitting a gem encrusted wall. One by one, the gems began go tumble to the ground with a large clattering sound. The rest of the filles turned Fido to glare at Sweetie Belle who smiled sheepishly.

"Well, well well," said Cujo looming over the foals, "What have we here?"

"Oh no, not these fillies again," said Rover smacking himself on the face.

Back with Starlight

"Okay everypony," said Starlight surveying the class, "We've covered a lot of ground with no result, but if we stick together...Wait a minute!"

Starlight surveyed the class noticing that numbers were smaller.

"One, two, three, four, five, six, seven..." said Starlight counting heads, "Where are Tender Tapes, Rumble, Button Mash, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon!?"

First Base began sweating bullets as their substitute panicked.

In a nearby tunnel

"Marco!" called out Button Mash, "Marco!"

"What are you doing?" asked Rumble.

"Waiting for somepony to say Polo," said Button Mash.

"That's how you plan on finding my sister," said Tender Tapes.

"Well I didn't see you coming up with any ideas," said Button Mash.

"Any idea would be better than that!" said Rumble.

"Well how would you suggest we find them then?" asked Button.

Rumble and Tender Tapes looked at each other for a moment.

"Ugh, Marco!" called out Rumble.

"Yep, that's what I thought," said Button.

Meanwhile in another tunnel

Silver Spoon was shivering as she followed after Diamond Tiara.

"Diamond Tiara," said Silver Spoon chattering her teeth, "I'm scared..."

"Oh don't be such a baby," said Diamond Tiara.

"W-w-w-w-why did we wander off from the group again?" asked Silver Spoon growing scared.

"So we can find those Blank Flanks and turn them into Miss Starlight," said Diamond Tiara with a cocky smile, "I'll be able to hold that one over them forever."

"Are you s-s-sure that's such a good idea?" asked Silver Spoon.

"Of course it's a good idea," said Diamond Tiara, "All my ideas are good ideas. What are you afraid of that we'll get lost."

"Yes," said Silver Spoon.

Meanwhile

Fido was tying the Crusaders and Cozy Glow up to a stalagmite.

"Yeah that's right," said Cujo ringing his paws, "Tie those fillies up good and tight."

"Um, Boss," said Rover raising a paw, "We do not believe this is such a good idea."

"Of course it's a good idea," said Cujo, "It's a wonderful idea!"

"But every time we get involved with these ponies we end up getting hurt," pointed out Rover.

"Or bruised, or beaten, or maimied" continued Spot.

"Umm...Good point, But we can't just let 'em go," continued Cujo, "They've seem to much...Besides, now we can hold them for ransom."

"Um boss," said Fido, "We fear you have developed an unhealthy obsession with kidnapping, we're here to talk if you need us..."

Cujo looked at Fido in disbelief.

"Just get back to work!" He screamed.

The fillies watched as Rover, Fido, and Spot went back to their digging.

"Ugh," said Scootaloo struggling against the ropes, "We've got to get out of here."

"This is all my fault," said Cozy Glow aloud, "I've got to do something..."

Cujo sat back down enjoying his lemonade.

"Hey you Big Mean Bully!"

Cujo spilled his drink all over himself as a voice cried out. The Diamond Dog turned to see Cozy Glow glaring at him.

"Who do you think you are picking on innocent fillies like this?!" shouted Cozy Glow, "If I wasn't tied up I'd show you a thing or two!"

"Oh yeah!" growled Cujo.

The Diamond Dog stormed over, dripping wet and yanked the filly up from her ropes by her collar.

"Well maybe I'll show you a thing or two!" Cujo growled glaring in her face.

"NOOOOOOO!" the Crusaders shouted.

The fillies watched in horror as Cujo dragged Cozy Glow away into a nearby tunnel.

"Now listen up you little brat..!" said Cujo raising Cozy Glow to eye level.

"No, you listen up you idiot," Cozy glow said Smacking the Diamond dogs face.

A furious look had crossed the fillies face that seemed out out character for her.

"Wait, what!" said Cujo rubbing his cheek.

"Take a good look at me," said Cozy Glow gesturing to herself, "Who am I!?

Cujo stared at the filly for a moment in confusion. All of a sudden a look of horror crossed his face.

"Sweet Celestia!" Shouted Cujo, "Your..."

"Don't say my name," said Cozy Glow putting her hoof to his muzzle, "It's Cozy Glow! And I was on my final key when you idiots showed up and ruined everything!"

"But King Sombra sent us to find it," said Cujo.

"And how's that working out for you," said Cozy Glow crossing her hooves.

"Well," said Cujo sweating, " We've made progress in the last three weeks..."

"Exactly," said Cozy Glow, "Luckily for you I have a spell to fix everything, but we can't let my friends know about it."

A few moments passed, and Finally Cujo came out of the tunnel with a weeping Cozy Glow.

"So, anyway..." said Cujo coughing into his paw, "Me and my boys are gonna go now..."

"Wait, what..?" said Rover, "But I thought you said..."

"Like I said..." continued Cujo smacking Rover in the face, "We're gonna go...And we're taking this filly with us.

"Noooooo!" Screamed out the crusaders.

They struggled to escape from their ropes as the Diamond Dogs and Cujo disappeared with Cozy Glow in tow.

Meanwhile Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon had come to a crossroads

"Well now which way do we go?" Silver Spoon asked.

"Just give me a minute to think," Diamond Tiara said, "Ya know I'm always the one getting us out of trouble."

"Getting us out of...?" Silver Spoon stuttered in a voice that was turning to sarcasm, "Oh right your always doing that..."

Diamond Tiara glared, "Was that sarcasm Silver Spoon?"

"No," Silver said once again being sarcastic, "I'm just saying."

Diamond Tiara just glared at her.

"If you have something to say, you can say it to my face," Diamond growled.

"Well then...Did you ever thing we wouldn't be in this mess if we's just stayed with the group like Miss Starlight asked," Silver Spoon stated her anger quikcly rising, "Bu no you wanted to get out of this cave sooner rather then later. You wanted to get the Crusaders and Cozy Glos in trouble cause your jealous of them!"

"Jealous of..!?" stated Diamond Tiara in disbelief, "Do you know how important my family is!?" Why in Equestris would I be jealous of those Blank Flanks!"

"Oh your jealous of them alright," said Silver Friend, "Because they have lot's of friends, and hou don't!"

"I have friends," said Diamond Tiara stuggling to name a few.

"The only friend you have is me," stated Silver Spoon matter of factly, "And frankly, even I don't like you that much."

"You don't like me," said Diamond Tiara in disbelief, "Since when?!"

"Since you always order me around," stated Silver Spoon, "Since you always force me to do things I don't want to do...Sinc you got us lost in these caves!"

"Hey I know what's beat!" Diamond Tiara shouted "Your lucky to have a friend who's so import! Who so much better then you! I am better, so I know better, so There!"

Silver Spoon was shocked to hear this. Tears filled her eyes as her anger grew.

"Well since you think you know better then me, You find you're own way out!" Silver Spoon shouted as she took the left tunnel sobbing.

Diamond Tiara was shocked. Then her face turned red with anger.

"Okay fine! I don't need you! I'll find my own way out good luck getting out of this cave with out me!" Diamond Tiara shouted back at her.

Meanwhile back with the CMC who were still tied up.

"Come on Crusaders!" Said Apple Bloom "We got to get out of here and save Cozy!"

"Oh let's face it Girls," cried Sweetie Belle "We'll never get out of this cave, Never never, never!"

But then suddenly the ropes got untied much to the three fillies shock.

"Huh?" Said Scootaloo "Well that was lucky."

"Luck had nothing to do with it," Said a voice behind them.

It was Rumbel was cutting them free with his pocket knife, Button Mash and Tender behind him.

"Oh thanks guy!" said Scootaloo blushing embarrassed.

"No problem," Said Tender Taps "Now how about we get out of here."

"We can't," Applebloom proclaimed, "Cozy Glow's been ponynapped by the Diamond Dogs!"

"What!?" shoutedthe boys

"Well then we should got an find Miss Starlight and..." Button Mash started get to finish as Sweetie Belle said

"There is no time for that," Sweetie Belle interrupted, "We've got to find Cozy Glow!"

The Crusaders then ran off to the tunnel they saw their friend was taken down.

The colfs all looked at each othee and goaded followed suite.

Meanwhile Diamond Tiara was grumbling to herself

"Ungrateful that's what it is," Diamond Tiara said "I let be my friend and that's the thanks I get. Well if she so much smarter then me then she should have no problem..."

"It worked!" Shouted a voice that was coming from the end of the tunnel.

Diamond Tiara ran over to investigate, and saw from the from the side of the tunnel the three Diamond Dogs looking over a small filly. Diamond Tiara realized the small filly was Cozy Glow, holding a black book. It seemed to glow in front of

"Of course it did," Cozy said to Cujo," Why do you think King Sombra wanted me to be here. This book of spells that Zeb gave me will be very useful indeed."

"Yeah It's a good thing you're one of our spies." Said Cujo

"You're working for King Sombra!" a voice shouted

They all turn to see Diamond Tiara who was covering her mouth realizing she open her big mouth.

"You were listening," Cozy said with an annoyed look as she flew "You know my little secret know"

"Um yes," Said Diamond Tiara looking a little scared. "You do realize I have to tell mis Starlight about this."

Diamond Tiara started to bakc away only to find that the Diamond Dogs were behind her.

"Please Cozy Glow," said Diamond Tiara in a panic, "I know I should't have picked on you so much. I didn't know it'd make you to work for King Sombra."

Cozy chuckled evilly as she approached, "You think I'm working for King Sombra because you picked on me?"

"Ummm...Yes." Diamond said

"No I was working for King Sombra since day one with the whole 'Pony of Oz' play," Cozy said flying circles over her like a vulture. "You see everyone in Equestria thinks freind is magic, but there wrong. Friendship is Power! I became friends with Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo so I could get close to Twilight Sparle. And now my friends with Element of Harmony too!"

"So you never really were friends with those bland flanks?" Diamond Tiara asked

"Of course I am!" said Cozy Glow, "And now thanks to them I have lots of other friends too. Friends that can help me spy for Uncle Sombra. Friends that can help me get close to the Royals of Tamblon. But more importantly, freinds who can help me find the last key of Tartarus."

"I don't think that's how friendship works," said Diamond Tiara tearing up.

"How would you know," said Cozy Glow tapping Diamond Tiara on the nose, "You don't have any friends."

"I have...friends," said Diamond Tiara tearing up.

"Then where are they," aske Cozy Glow matter of factly.

Diamand Tiara looked around and realized she was completely alone.

"Why are you're telling me this?" Diamond asked.

"Well that's simple," Cozy Glow said "Because I know nopony will ever believe you, I've already got them wrapped around my hoof. You on the other have been a spoiled little brat who thinks she better then everyone else. One who likes to make everypony arpund her miserable by getting them in to trouble. One to make fun of them just to hide how miserable she really is. Nopony will ever beive you, not even Silver Spoon."

That last one really stung. Tears began to stream down Diamond Tiara's eyes as she bit her lip.

"But just to be safe," said Cozy Glow lifting up her book as it began to glow.

There was green flash of light and Diamond Tiara saw Cozy Glow standing hight above her on a pillar.

"I didn't get where I am today"

"By letting myself get pushed around!"

"No pony or beast or kitty-cat or doggy"

"Is going to drag me down!"

The ground crumbled under Diamond Tiara as she began to fal.

"Muahahahaha!" Cujo's sillouette laughed evilly

"Shut up Cujo" Cozy Glow shouted

"The lightning will be flashing"

"The thunder, it will roar"

"They'll never know what hit 'em!"

"Wait'll they see what Sombra has in store..."

Diamond Tiara landed in water as thunder and lighting flashed around her.

"Big and loud!"

"It will be big and loud!"

"When the fall they'll really fall!"

"And they're gonna fall big!"

"And they're gonna fall loud!"

"They're gonna fall big and..."

"Ha-ho-ho-ho-ho-ha-ho-ho-ho" The giant face of Diamond Tiara was looking down in her.

"Ha-ha-ha-hee-hee-hee" Cujo's face laughed evily beside her.

"Shut up Cujo" Cozy snapped pushing the dog out if her spotling

"Loud!"

Diamond Tiara stood there paralyzed as her eyes glowed green. Cozy and the Diamond Dogs just stood there looking at her.

"Wh-what di you to her," Rover askes with a petrified Fido and Spot quivering behind hi,

"Just a little trick I picked up from Uncle Sombra," Cozy said, "The best part is she won't be able to remember any of this when it's over.

"So should we capture her?" Asked Cujo

"No. leave her to suffer her worsted fear," Cozy said as she then lead the Diamond Dogs to another tunnel, "Besides we have work to do."

Not far away

"Marco!" called out Rumble looking annoyed.

He was followed close behind by Scootaloo, Tender Tapes, Apple Bloom, Button Mash, and Sweetie Belle.

"What sre you doing," asked Scootaloo in disbelief.

"Don't ask," stated Rumble, "Marco!"

"...polo..." a small a voice whimpered from a distance.

The fillies and colts looked at each other in confusion. Rumble walked over to a nearby Stalamite to see Silver Spoon quiver under it.

"Oh Rumble, you saved me!" Silver Spoon cried out jumpling into Rumble's arms and giving him kiss,

Rumble blushed deeply embarrassed.

"Told you it would work," said Button Mash confidently.

"Silver Spoon?" said Sweetie Belle in disbelief, "What are you doing here?"

"I-I-I..."Silver Spoon stuttered, "Diamond Tiara and I were looking for you...And-and we got lost...And-and-and..."

Silver Spoon started sobbing into Rumble making the colt more embarrassed than ever.

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, "Come on guys, I guess we have to find Diamond Tiara now too..."

The Crusades, Ponyville boys, and Silver Spoon went further down the tunnels. Things were starting to seem hopeless.

All of a sudden they heard a small voice in the distance.

"Please don't say that," a small voice spoke up.

The fillies and colts all rushed forward to see Diamond Tiara still standing in place.

"Well we found her," said Scootaloo rolling her eyes.

"Please don't say that," said Diamond Tiara again.

"Um, Diamond Tiara?" Apple Bloom stated confused.

The groups of school ponies slowly approached and surrounded Diamond Tiara.

"Please don't say such a things mother!" the filly said, her glowing green eyes starting to tear up.

"What's up with her?" Rumble asked.

"I don't know," said Sweetie Belle coming over and putting a hood on her shoulder.

All of a sudden Sweetie Belle's eyes lit up bright green.

Sweetie Belle found herseld in a large dark space. In front of her, a much smaller Diamond Tiara sat quivering. She was so young she didn't even have a cutie mark yet. Above her giant versions of her mother Spoiled Rich and her falther Filthy Rich were sxpcowling down at her.

"Diamond Tiara," the illusion Spoiled Rich said "You are such a disappointment, a failure, and a disgrace."

"No!" Diamond Tiara whimpered to tear up.

"Why can't you be more like your sister," said the Illusion of Filthy Rich.

"Nooo!" Sobbed Diamond Tiara.

Sweerie Belle lifted her hoof of Diamond Tiara coming back to her senses.

"She was hit by a fear spell," Sweetie Belle proclaimed, "A spell personally created by King Sombra. Anypony who is hit by it ismforced to experience there worst fears over and over again."

Everypon just looked at Sweetie Belle in disbelief.

"Ummm...Sweetie Belle how do you know that?" Asked Button Mash

"I've been hanging around Zecora and Twilight for quite a while now," the unicorn said blushing.

"Okay, but how do we get her out of it?" Asked Tender Tapes

"Oh well that's simple," said Scootaloo, "Twilight's been teaching Sweetie Belle a spell on how do undo curses like this. Especially after what happened last heart's and hooves day."

"You mean when you tricked Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee into drinking a love poison and they wreck havoc across Ponyville?" Asked Rumble

"We promised never to speak about that again," growled Scootsloo.

"The point is we know how to undo it," said Applebloom.

A few moments later

The ponyville boys were draing a magic circle in the dirt around Diamond Tiara. While they did this Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootalo looked over the notes that Twilight left them.

"Are you sure about this?" Silver Spoon asked looking at Diamond Tiara with concern.

"Um pretty sure," said Sweetie Belle sheepishly

"But, Sweetie Belle isn't as magical as Princess Twilight," Silver Spoon pointed put

"Just give her a moment," said Scootaloo, "It's one of the basic magic she spells she was taught."

Everypony backed away from the circle as Sweetie Belle approached it.

"Ah just hope it works." Appleblook said.

Sweetie Belle's horn began to glow.

All of audden there was abright flash of light. When the ponies eyes cleared, they saw Sweetie Belle floating in front of Diamond Tiara, her horn and eyes glowing bright green.

"I'm all alone..." said Sweetie Belle with an echoey voice, "I have no friends..."

"What are you talking about," said Button Mash confused, "We're your friends."

"I don't think she's the one saying those things," said Scootaloo pointing to Diamond Tiara.

The fillies and colt's all looked at Sweetie Belle and then back at Diamond Tiara.

"Nopony cares about me," echoed Sweetie Belle speakinf Diamond Tiara's thought, "Nopony would car if I were to dissapear..."

"That's not true!" shouted Applebloom to Diamond Tiara, "We would care!"

"We would!?" asked Fumble in disbelief.

"Of course we would," said Scootloo smacking him on the back of the head, "Everypon would!"

"I don't believe you," echoed Diamond Tiara finalky speaking, "You never liked me."

"I like you," spoke up Silver Spoon, "When your actually nice to ponies and you pretend you don't care shat they think about you."

"Say what now?" asked Apple Bloom.

"I know you alway have to pretend to be tough, because your afraid to let everypony know the real you...But I like the real you, and I know showed everypony else the real you, they'd like you too."

The Crusaders and Ponyville Boys looked at each other.

"Ah'd like to know the Reall Diamond Tiara too," said Applebloom.

"Me too," said Scootaloo.

"As would I," said Tender Tapes.

"Me too?" said Button Mash still confused.

Everypony looke at Rumble.

"Okau fine, I'd like to know the real Diamond Tiara too," said Rumble

There was another bright flash and Sweerie Belle slowly floated to the ground. Diamond Tiara's eyes slowy opened. As her breath slowly went back to normal she saw the Crusaders, The Ponyville Boys and finally Silver Spoon.

"WAAAAAAAAAAAH!" cried out Diamond Tiara as she rushed to hug Silver Spoon.

The two fillies hugged tightly both of them sobbing.

"Don't younever leave me again!" sobbed Silver Spoon.

"Awwwwwwww," said Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle

"Bleh," said Scootaloo and Rumble sticking out their tounges.

"Cozy Glow, how'd you get stuck like that?" asked Tender Tapes.

Diamond Tiara thought back for a moment.

"Nopony will ever believe you," a mysterious voice whispered in the back of her mind.

Deep in the caves

Cujo was being forced to dig deeper and deeper into the ground.

"Um shouldn't you guys be helping," he whimpered.

Cujo Looked over twoards Cozy Glow who was serveing tea to Rover, Fido, and Spot.

"We are helping," said Rover sarcastically, "We're supervising."

"Okay I get it," said Cujo as he dug deeper.

As Cozy Glow and the remaining Diamond Dogs sipped their tea, Cujo suddenlynstruck something deep within the hole.

"Um, Cozy Glow," said Cujo peaking up his head, "There's a giant statue of a three headed dog down here holding the key..."

"Oh that's probably just the guardian," said Cozy Glow, "Try not to wake him

All of suden the Curaders, Ponyville Boys, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon heard a large roar.

"RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUN!" Shouted out Cujo as he ran down the tunnel

The dog held had a giant key high above his head. The foals couldn't tell but the hilt of it read GLU.

"What in tarnation is goin' on!?" asked Applebloom confused.

"Run ponies, Run!" Shouted Rover as he ran past them with Fido and Spot close behind.

The fillies and colts turned to see Cozy Glow being chased by a giant three headed dog which was headed right for them

"Uh-oh," said Applebloom in a panic.

That was all she got to say as she, Sweetie Belle, Scootalool, Tender Tapes, Button Mash, Rumble, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon all joined Cozy Glow as she ran away. The terrified foals all screamed in terro as the beast chased after them.

"What is that thing!?" Cried out Rumble in a panic.

"That's Cerberus!" Shouted Sweetie Belle, "The three-headed Dog that's supposed to guard over the gates of Tartarus!"

Everypony looked at Sweetie Belle in disbelief.

"I've been spending a lot of time with Zecora guys!" proclaimed Sweetie Belle.

The three-headed hound chased the fosls until they came to a dead end. Right when it was about to pounce on them, a magic blast hit Cerberus knocking back.

"Sit boy!" A voice shouted

Everypon turned to swe Starlight along First Base and the rest of the school ponies.

Cerberus whimpered at the sight of Starlight Glimmer.

"Bad Cerverus," said Starlight, "You know better than to attack little ponies! Go back home to Tartarus!"

Cerberus's heads drooped, as he slowly turned away and trudged down the tunnel.

"Miss Starlight!" the lost ponies all cheered as they rushed twoards her.

Starlight glared at them, causing them all tp screech to a halt.

"I supose yous havea an explanation for all this," said Starlight Glimmer tapping her hoof.

The fillies and colts all looked at each other sheepishly. Finally Cozy Glow stepped forward.

"It was my fault miss Cheerilee," said Cozy Glow, "I got my group lost, and then the other had to come and rescue us.

Starlight Glimmer looked at the small pegaus who was begining to tear up.

"The next time I tell to stick with the group.." Starlight sighed.

"Yes Miss Glimmer," The school ponies said in unison.

Later that day

Starlight Glimmer lead the class out a nearby tunnel.

"Okay class," said Starlight "We've had a hectic day, but now here we are..."

Starlight looked forward im disbelief. They were right outside of Castle Tambelon.

"Right Outside of Castle Tambelon!?" said Starlight confused, "But there are no tunnels outside of Castle Tambelon?"

As Starlight rereviewed her maps, the Class reasembled with their groups.

"Cozy!" said Applebloom giving the filly a big hug, "We were so worried about you."

"What did the Diamond Dogs do to you?" asked Sweetie Belle.

"Yeah, and how did you escaped?" Scootaloo asked.

"Oh, I just used my wits," said Cozy Glow, "You know how dumb those diamond Dogs are."

"Wait the Diamond Dogs were here!?" Starlight asked overheaing the conversation.

Starlight's raced as she suddenly remembered that Cerberus was the guardian final Key of Tartarus

"Oh no this is bad, this is bad, this is bad." Said Starlight as she turn to the school ponies, "Okay, field trip over now! Everypony go home!"

Diamond Tiara watched as the Crusaders seperated from Cozy Glow heading back twoards the castle.

However when Cozy was leaving hear shot Diamond Tiara then gather the school ponies and said.

"Listen guys," said Diamond Tiara rushing over to the Crusaders, " I want to thank you guys for saving me back there."

"Umm...You're welcome I guess," Said Scootaloo "By the way what happened here?"

"They'll never believe you"

"I..I don't remember," said Dismond Tiara, "but I'm pretty sure Cozy Glow had something to do with it.

"Cozy Glow," said Applebloom confused.

The three fillies looked at each other and chuckled.

"Cozy one of the nicest ponies in all of Equesatria is evil?" Said Scootaloo

"Yeah she'd never do aything to hurt anypony," said Sweetie Belle.

"Oh," said Diamond Tiara sadly, "She said nopony would believe me, I guess she was right..."

The crusaders watched as Diamond Tiara went to rejoin her group.

"Ya know," said Applebloom, "Maybe we should listen to her, "Just because she never cared about anyone else's feelings, doesn't mean we should care about hers"

Meanwhile at Midnight castle King Sombra along with his followers and allies was at his throne room and he was evilly happy.

"Yes at least!" King Sombra said while holding the Key of Gluttony with his magic, all while holding the other six keys. "You have done well Cozy Glow."

"I aim to please King Sombra." said Cozy Glow watching through a magic orb.

"Hey what about me?" Said Cujo "I help!"

"Right for a few weeks," Said King Sombra "But that doesn't matter now. Because..."

Meanwhile at the Tamplon castle Thorne room we see Starlight along with the mane six Stallion six, Spike, and the royal family. She was telling them what had happened today

"King Sombra now had the final key!" Starlight said "And that can only mean one thing!"

Back to King Sombra

"A dawn of a new era!" King Sombra said

Back with Starlight

"So we must be ready!" She said

Both King Sombra and Starlight both said in unison.

"For the end game!"