After a few days of being in the castle, we FINALLY began to rebuild what was damaged or destroyed in Coal Town during the invasion. Thankfully, the Town got hit badly, but not extremely bad.

We were each tasked to different jobs we help with damage control/repair jobs. And thanks to Mom and Aunty Tia's generous donation, we were able to repair most of the damage rather quickly.

My job was to get the Wi-Fi tower up and running again, and it's been a real to get working again. I was using my tablet to see what the problem was when Doc showed up.

Doc then said "Ah Mr.Spear, how gose the repair work on the tower?"

I sighed from frustration and said "Well Doc, the damage to the tower has been taxing to repair, but most of the damage is superficial, so getting it patched up won't be a issue."

I then felt a blood vessel began to twich as I said "But, thanks to THOSE said damages, the Wi-Fi rotor and signal output have been scrambled and smoothing them out is taking more time then I like. And this tablet is making things more difficult!"

Doc looked the tablet and said "Well, it IS a interesting device you have there... I think I can do something with this."

I gave the tablet to Doc as he used his engineer wretch on it. To be honest, I know the engineer AND medic are the smartest classes in the game, but what is he planning on-"Here you are. Hope this helps."

Doc then gave me..."A smartphone? Doc, have you EVER tried to process bio sensors through a smartphone? I can't work with this."

Doc then asked "Are you sure?" I breathed ro calm down and asked "Doc...do you OWN a cellphone?"

Doc shook his head and said "Nope. Never needed one." That explains...SO MUCH. "But, I think I have solution to this."

I gave Doc the phone as he began to hit his wrench as he then handed me...a laptop? "Wow...and I thought Pinkie pie could basically do anything. Also, is this windows 11?"

Doc nodded as I said "Well thanks Doc. This SHOULD help with the Wi-Fi repair."

Doc smiled and said "Anytime. And You can keep the laptop. Have a good day now."

I smiled at Doc as he walked off back to the office as I managed to finish off the Repairs to the Wi-Fi and the tower. Everything was going great... until...

"Surprise tech support!" "AUGH!"
I was stabbed in the back...LITTERLY!
Turns out Thespio decided to sneak attack me and waited till AFTER I was done with the tower.

He then decided to taunt me with a French accent and said "Oh and by the way, it's still in Beta. Ohohohohoh!"

Thankfully I had a senzu bean on me and healed up fast. But a strong fury was burning in my eyes as I shouted, "THAT'S IT! Get over here Thespio!" I then started my search for Thespio, with revenge on the mind.

After half a hour searching, I was getting annoyed when I heard the sound of...arguing? I looked at a building rooftop and saw Voice and Golden fox arguing about something.

Ok... change of plans. Break up their fight first. Hunting down Thespio, later.

I then walked into a ally, walled jumped to the roof, whistled a loud noise and said "Alright you two, break it up!"

Voice and Golden immediately shut upped as I then asked "What's going on here? I'm sure everypony in Coal Town can hear you from up here."

Voice then sighed and said "Well, it's all Golden's fault. Ever since he's gotten that stupid achievement, he's been rubbing it in my face almost every day."

Golden shuged and said "What can I say? He just needs to get good and then he'll be ALMOST as great as me."

This made Voice's blood boil as he says "Ok, that's it! One v. one me, scrub!" Golden gave a confused look as Voice said "You and me! We're settling this in a contest. Winner takes all!"

Oh boy. I was hoping it would this wouldn't happen. We JUST got the town cleaned up! ...actually, wait. I think I know how this COULD work.

I then got in between them and said "Look, if we're gonna do this, then we need a big stage. Hmmm...I got it! You two are settling this with a iron pony competition! The sniper with the most wins after ten events, is the best sniper in all of Equestria!"

While Goiden seemed excited, Voice then said "Seriously? A iron pony competition? That idea hasn't been used since the first season of the original show. Plus, we're not athletic enough for such a event in the first place."

I smacked my hand to my head and said "First off Voice, fourth wall. And second. The reason I chose the Iron pony competition is because this isn't just about seeing who's better. It's also a test to see if you two are still mercenary material. Doc DID say he wanted you two's data for the files, so this works out."

The two of then nodded and thought that it was reasonable as Voice says "Alright then. But! If we're gonna do this, then NO wings allowed during the competition. We don't need a repeat of last time."

Golden rolled his eyes and said "Fine. That's fair I suppose. When's the event?"

I then thought of when would be perfect and said, "Tomorrow, high noon. In the fields on the far side of Sweet apples acres. Be there or be square."

We all agreed to the terms as I clocked out early to set everything up. I then left back to ponyville to recruit a certain little dragon for help.

Meanwhile

*Spike's P.O.V*

Ahhhh. Today was pretty good day. I woke up in my incredible room that Rarity decorated for me last week (which was really nice of her actually.), made a great breakfast, and I'm enjoying some time with my comics. Nothing can possibly ruin this- "Hey Spike. Can you come to the entrance real quick?"

And the day OFFICIALLY begins. Sigh...one day to my comics. Is that too much to ask? I got out of bed and made my way to the entrance and saw Twilight by the front door. Wonder what's going on?

Twilight then said "Hey Spike. Just wanted to let you know, that I'm heading to Fluttershy's to ask her to help me find owl-licious. Ever since the Tirek incident, I haven't been able to find him. I'm worried that he might have gotten lost or something."

Ugh, Owl-licious. And just I was getting use to having Twilight to myself again. I'll admit, I'm NOT a fan of that owl. Ever since that dumb owl showed up, he's been making me feel obsolete. He can stay up late with Twilight when I fall asleep, he gets special treats, he goes to the park with her, and everypony loves him!

But me? I get flack for running late, get yelled at for accidentally burning her papers Cas of allergies, we never get to do what I want, and I'm sure that if that dumb owl never saw my tracks OR told Twilight, she would have NEVER went to go find me!

Sigh, but I digress. While the owl and I don't get along, I do care for Twilight, so it's why I tolerate him and never told Twilight about this.

Speaking of which, she then said "So, while I'm gone, I'll need you to finish your chores list and make dinner tonight, ok?"

I sighed and said admittedly more irritated then intended, "Sure Twilight. I'll do it."

Twilight must've noticed as she said, "Are You ok Spike? Usually your more excited about making dinner Cas you add extra gems into your food...without me knowing mind you."

Yeah...she's got a point. What can I say? It's a dragon thing. I then said "Look, I'm fine,ok? Now...you better get going before it gets late." I then vented out underneath my breath "Before your precious owl/New number one assistant gets lost.

I should've kept my mouth shut as Twilight must've heard me and said "Wait, what did you say?"

I sighed and said "Nothing. Bye Twilight." I walked to the library as I shut the door behind me. Not wanting for Twilight to see me. The last thing I saw was Twilight leaving through the front door. Sigh...maybe things will change one day.

30 minutes later

Surprisingly, the library wasn't too bad this time. Just a few books that needed some rearranging and I was done. And the rest of the list followed smoothly too.

Argh, I still can't believe that I'm still intimidated by a nocturnal bird. I mean, Twilight is my best friend...and maybe a fantasy I imagine sometimes, I mean, she looks at my flank, so it's fair game.

Anyway, I was about to make lunch when suddenly- "Yo Spike! You home?!"

I then heard my big brother at the front door. And from the sound of it, it sounds like he's looking for me.

So, I ran to the door and saw him catching his breath. That can only mean one thing. "SO, what's so important that you ran all the way from Coal Town to tell me?"

Spear manged to catch his breath and said, "Hey Spike. You thing you can help me with something?" I nodded as he continued, "So, you remembered the iron pony competition that Applejack and Rainbow dash had some time ago?"

I then grunted at it. While it was fun being the announcer of the competition, being the 'Helper' in some of the events was...less then stellar. "Begrudgingly, Yes. Why are you asking?"

He then explained that he got Golden fox and Voice of reason to do an iron pony competition to see who was the better sniper. Honestly, the two of them sound like Rainbow dash and Applejack when it comes to rivalry.

Spear then had a pleading look and said "Can you PLEASE help me set up everything? I already got the materials and the place. I just need some help setting everything up. Please?"

I already knew the answer as I was about to say yes when he said, "I'll make you your favorite jewel treat. Chocolate ruby surprise." Heh, jokes on you big bro. I was gonna say yes regardless. But you just sweeten the deal for me. "Deal. Let's go set up."

Before we left, We heard Scootaloo come down stairs. It's so awesome living with my pega-sister like this. While she's not a big fan of chores, she still keeps my company when I do the chores. "Hi dad, Hi Spike. What's you doing?"

*Scootaloo's P.O.V*

I'm so glad to see my dad came home early from Coal Town today. Heh, Dad...even after over a year and a half, I'm still not use to saying that. For nearly Two years, I was stuck as a orphan. Alone and forgotten by my so called actual parents.

But...Spear adopted me... he feeds me. he loves me like his own daughter. And I'm proud to have him as my dad. Now I'm just missing a mom for the family.

Dad began to tell me about how he and Spike were gonna set up a iron pony competition for tomorrow and I got excited. I've heard about the competition, but never got to see one.

After the first one, the equestria games happened and ponyville kinda forgot about it. So, maybe bringing it back can help ponyville cheer up after the whole Tirek incident.

So, I then asked, "Can me and my friends help too? I REALLY wanna see the competition! And maybe me and my friends can get our cutie marks in competition set ups."

I heard dad chuckle and showed a smile and said "Of course you and the cmc can help. We can even camp out in the field overnight for the competition if you want."

I jumped for joy and may have flipped my little wings as I said "Sweet! I'll go and tell them! Oh, but first, let me go and pack my stuff first!" I when to my room and packed my camping gear for a awesome weekend.

*Normal P.O.V*

After everyone got their camping gear and packed some lunch, Scootaloo headed for the farm to let Applebloom know what was happening and Spike and Spear headed to the grounds to set up the competition.

After the cmc arrived and all the materials were checked, they began to set up everything for the iron pony competition. There were some familiar events that they thought could be fun to see, as well as a few new events that challenged their skills as a sniper.

As they were continuing to set up, Scootaloo and Sweetie bell decided to ask Applebloom on how the competition was last time, since she was here to see it. "So A.B, how was the competition the last time it was held? I mean, you were their when it happened, right?"

Applebloom nodded and said "Yeah, N why you ask?" Sweetie bell then answered for Scootaloo and said "Well, we wanna know if it's as hype as the stories say. Since we weren't there for the competition that year."

Applebloom then gave a mischievous smile and teased "OH, riiiight. You two were on a date during the competition. I remember now." She then giggled in her hoof, knowing what she stirred up.

Scootaloo and Sweetie bell blushed as they got teased as Scootaloo then said "We were cuddling ONE time, and you never let it down."

Sweetie bell then said "Yeah, come on Applebloom. It's not like you and I haven't held tails while coloring, or how you kissed Scootaloo on the check after a stunt."

Applebloom blushed, knowing that they got her in a corner. "...ok, ok. you got me." She then said "You know, it's kinda funny that we're so close, it's almost like we're in a threesome, huh?"

Sweetie bell then had a idea and asked "Well...wanna make it official? Or at least consider making a herd with our crushes?"

They nodded as they heard Spear say "I heard that! Wait till your older to start a herd."

The cmc blushed that Spear heard them as Scootaloo said "Well, we can be close to each other. Come on, let's finish setting up. Dad brought stuff to make smores after we're done."

Sweetie bell walked off to finish the decorations, while Applebloom helped Scootaloo with putting the hay bells in position for the events...while they wrapped their tails with each other's.

*Spear's P.O.V*

After we finished setting everything up, eating dinner, and polishing off the smores, the gang and I pitched our tents and rested for the main event tomorrow. We'll see who's the better sniper after tomorrow.

As the cmc slept, Spike and I shared another tent, since we only had two tents with us, we had to share. However, I then felt Spike had left the tent and stood in the field alone...time to see what's on his mind as I stood up and walked towards him. "A little late for a walkabout, right little bro?"

I could tell Spike was upset about something as he said "Not now big bro. I'm not in a mood."

I then sighed as I stood next to him, looked up at the night sky and said, "Mom did a nice job with her night sky tonight, huh?"

One thing I've learned from doc is that when trying to get somepony to open up, it's important to try and dance around the subject and lure the problem up to the surface. Only then can I jump at the chance to talk to him.

Spike looked up in depression and said, "Yeah...it is."

I could tell that Spike was more willing to talk as I then asked, "So...something you wanna get out of your chest?"

Spike sighed as he looked at me and asked, "Big bro...am I...useless?"

This definitely got my attention as I got worried. Last time he felt like this was when he thought he was getting replaced by...ohhhhh. "Spike...are you still worried that Owl-licious is gonna replace you?"

Spike nodded as he said "Well, you know how he never returned since he flew off during Tirek's attack?"

I nodded as he continued to vent. "Well, Twilight when to go look for him. Yet, when I ran away, it took Owl-licious telling her to come after me. Sigh...sometimes I wonder if Twilight cares more about the owl then she cares for me."

I felt terrible for Spike. He really believes that Twilight more about the owl more then him. "Hoo" Owl-licious. You know, Twilight's pet owl? "Hoo" Twilight. You know? Princess of friendship, Owl-licious's owner, my secret- wait...

"Spike? Do you hear that? Sounds like someponys...Hooing?" We looked around to see who was hooing. We looked at the fence behind us and spotted a owl.

But, it wasn't a ordinary owl. Spike squinted and recognized who it was. "...Owl-licious?!"

The owl flew to us and landed on my arm like a pirth...ouch. "So, the prodigal owl returns huh? Where were you all this time?"

"Hoo" was all that was had as Spike then said, "Geez, we were worried about you. Twilight especially, why did you take off like that?"

Owl-licious then turned and saw Spike and made a cheerful, "Hoo" and landed on his arm, and snuggled on his face.

I smirked, having a feeling of what this meant. "Looks like he missed you too Spike. If he didn't, I don't think he would be snuggling you so much."

Spike definitely looked surprised at that. He must've not have thought of that Owl-licious would miss him. As he snuggled back and said "Sorry if I was still acting cold towards you. I just I'm still feeling jealous that Twilight doesn't show the same level of love towards me sometimes."

The Owl in question hooed at me as Spike said, "Umm...What did he say?"

"Oh, he said, "Sorry for making you worry about me." I translated. Making my little bro surprised. "Since when could you speak Owl?!" He replied surprisingly.

I smirked and said "Fluttershy has been giving me lessons on how to talk to animals. Like Owls for example."

Owl-licious then gave another "Hoo" and a sad look as I translated, "After that big red monster attacked the tree, I saw you weren't around. So I began to look for you. But then, I got lost in the forest. Heh, imagine. Me, a owl, getting lost in a forest."

Me and Spike chuckled at the thought of Owl-licoius with a map and compus in the woods.

"But still, sorry for worrying you all. Especially Spike. I know we didn't start off on the wrong Talen, but I hope I can be a good friend and pet to you. Like this guy I found in the woods."

Wait, what- "Kaaawwwww!" Wait...is that...Spike then recognized what was flying at them an said surprised, "P-Pewe?!" The young Phoenix swooped down and landed on Spike's arm and starts nuzzling him. Showing he hadn't forgotten his old owner.

I smiled and said "You know Spike, there's a old saying that my oldest sister once told me. "If you love something, set it free. But, if it comes back to you, then it's yours." I think pewe missed you too, and wants to stay with you. And since we're in a crystal castle now..."

Spike smiled happily, then hugged both Pewe and Owl-licious and Said "Thank you Owl-licious. And I hope we can be better friends in the future."

I smiled as Spike managed to patched things up with Owl-licious, but also got to reunite with his pet pewe. I then called Spike over and said "Come on guys, let's head to bed, Tomorrow, we've got a competition to host."

After snuggling with Owl-licious and pewe, Spike fell asleep pretty fast. But no2 I was wondering. Dose Twilight know that Spike was here? These thoughts came with me as I fell asleep too.

*Twilight's P.O.V*

'Sigh... eight hours of searching, and no sight of Owl-licious anywhere. Did he fly south? Sigh, I'll check another time. I'm sure Spike is probably mad I took so long.'

I pulled out a large emerald from my saddle bag and looked at it with a guilt filled Conscience and said "I hope Spike can forgive me. Maybe Tomorrow, I can take him to see the new power pony movie he wanted to go see... but I'll also understand if he doesn't forgive me right away."

I opened the door and saw that the castle was clean...with didn't help my guilt at all. "Oh Spike...I've definitely have been putting so much work on you and not pulling my weight around here. Well, starting tomorrow, that changes."

I walked to Spike's door and saw...that his bed was empty?! "Spike?! Where are you?" But I never heard him. My heart rate began to quicken, as I teleported through out the castle. But, he was no where! No...please Spkie. Please be alright!

I then teleported outside as I ran through town and then I ran to the everfree forest, hoping I find you like last time.

*The next day*

Ugggh...all night in the everfree...and no sign of Spike ANYWHERE....*Sniff* I've been a terrible best friend to him...

I thought I learned My lesson when I first brought Owl-licious home in the old golden oak library. Some princess of friendship I am. I drove one of my best friends away due to my absence studying, and now another ran away from home because I neglected him.

I sat on the front of the castle and sulked at my failure as a friend when I heard "Hey Twilight"

I looked up and saw Pinkie and Fluttershy in front of me. And honestly, I'm not in the mood to deal with Pinkie pie craziness today.

"Twilight, are you ok?" Fluttershy asked me gently, which I appreciate. "Did you find Owl-licious?"

I shook my head and said "No, I didn't find him. And to make things worse, Spike ran away from home. I've been searching all night for him and there's no sign of him." I began to cry in my hoofs and said "I've taken him for granted too many times, and now he's gone."

I continued to cry, trying to think of any fun times we had, but nothing. I was so obsessed with that dumb box and other things that I unintentionally pushed Spike to the side! Ohhh, I'd give anything to do-over the last two months of my life!

Fluttershy then sounded confused and said "Are you sure Spike ran away?"

I looked up with my eyes red and puffy and said "Yes! He wasn't in the castle, in town, OR in the Everfree! Where else can he be?!"

Pinkie then said in her still bubbly tone, "The field near Sweet apple acres? We saw him there not to long ago."

The field near Sweet apple acres!? Why didn't I check there?! I then teleported there to hopefully find him and apologized to him.

*Earlier, At sweet apple acres, Normal P.O.V*

Voice of reason and Golden fox were blind folded and lead by the Cmc from their homes to the event. Golden then asked nervously, "Ummm...is the blindfolds really necessary?"

Voice then sounded concerned and said "And for that matter, how did you manage to find out where we live?"

Scootaloo then explained, "Oh, dad told us where you lived. And he asked Dr.Wolf for your addresses."

Voice and Golden nodded in understanding as they continued to be guided by the cmc.

They arrived at the field as they heard Spear say "Good job bringing them here girls. I already whipped up breakfast for you three. I'll show Voice and Golden around in the meantime."

Golden then decided to ask, "Hey Spear? Can we take off these blindfolds now? I almost tripped on the way here."

Spear then stopped the two of them, turned himself and said "OK, take them off you two!"

Golden and Voice then took off their blindfolds and were shocked at what they saw. The whole field was transformed Into a sort of obstacle course with multiple events.

Voice then freaked out and said "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold on. You guys MADE all this in ONE day?! How?!"

Spear smirked and said "Your not the ONLY one that can do the impossible Voice."

"Umm guys? A bit of help, Please?" Spike said as he somehow got tied up in some of the extra rope.

Golden was about to say something when-"SPIKE! WHERE ARE YOU?!"

They all turned and saw Twilight in a panic. As she saw Voice and Golden in front of Spike. In her state of mind, she began to fear the worst. 'Their...dragonnapping him!'

In a rage, her horn glowed, and grabbed them with her magic as she stared at them with a suppressed angered in her, and said "Let Spike go, and I promise that no harm will immediately fall apon you."

Voice and Golden gulped in fear as they saw her with a intense anger in her eyes as Voice fearfully said "Now P-Princess Twilight, l-let's talk about this." Golden then thought 'Oh wow...and I thought Thunder blight was scary."

Spike managed to get loose and saw Twilight as she said "I. Want. Spike. Back. Now." She then tear up as she started to break down and say, "H-He ran away from home...I-I failed him...I...I...I-"

She collapsed on the ground and began cry intensity. The guilt that had build up between losing Spear all that time ago AND Spike running away last night boiled over and she couldn't hold back anymore. "I...I want to talk to him...*sob* please, let me talk to him."

"T-Twilight?" Twilight turned around and saw Spike behind her with a bit of rope on his foot from earlier. Twilight stared at him with her red, puffy, and tear-filled eyes as she nervously said "S-Spike..."

Spike tried to run to her, but tripped on the rope and falling to the ground. Twilight gasped as if she saw him fall into a abyss and shouted "SPIKE!!!" She ran to him as she dusted him off quickly with her hoof. "Oh my Celestia! Spike, are you ok?!"

Spike shook his head and said "I'm fine Twilight. A bit dizzy, but fine."

Twilight then looked at him, happy to see him safe and sound. But also relief in the fact that he was alright. She hugged him tightly and said "Spike, I was so scared! When I didn't see you at home last night, I panicked, and looked all over for you! I thought I lost my best friend and I wouldn't be able to be with you again."

Spike blinked slowly and teared up, saying "Y-You were looking for me all night? Y-You were worried about me?"

Twilight sniffed and cleared her eyes as she said "Of course I was worried about you! Spike, I know I haven't said this enough, but...I appreciate all you do for me. You feed me, care for me while I'm studying, you help me calm fown when i panic, and your always there for me when i need a friend. Thank you for always being there for me Spike."

She then have a sadden look as she said "I know I let you do all the chores by yourself, and... I feel like I'm being a burden to you. Like, I haven't been doing my part at the castle OR in the old library."

Twilight then gave Spike a reassuring smile and said "Well... I'm gonna change that. From now on, I'll pull my weight around the castle. It's a big job to handle it all on your own. Especially with such a massive castle we live in now. We're a team Spike. Even if our other friends are not around...it'll always be you and me, against the world. Together."

Spike then teared up as he heard all of this. Maybe all his worries were for nothing after all. He hugged her with tear on both of their faces as he said "Twilight, your NEVER a burden to me. I care for you because I love you. I take care of you so your at your best as princess or as a student. I'm sorry I worried you so much last night Twi. You'll always be my best friend. No matter what."

Unbeknownst to them, Spear, Voice, Golden, and the cmc heard and saw the while thing, smiling the whole way through.

Twilight looked around her as she saw the group seeing their moment, and the area around all of them and said "Ummm Spike? What's going on?"

Spike then chuckled a bit and said "It's a Long story. How about I whip us up some coffee as I explain?"

Twilight nodded and said "I'd be happy with that Spike." As they walked off to the side of one of the stands, Spear then thought to himself, 'This would make a great friendship letter for auntie Celestia. Gotta remember this for later.'

As Spear turned around and looked at Voice and Golden, he said "Ok, ready to see who's the better sniper?"

Voice then smirked as he said "Heh bring it on. I'm ready to show 'Golden hacks' here how it's done!"

Golden, while annoyed by the name, then said "In your dreams, wall breaker!"

As the two of then began to get ready, they then heard- "What in tarnation is going on here?!"

Spear gulped as he knew who was behind him. "Uhhh hehe...Hi Applejack." He turned around and was surprised to see not only see Applejack there, but Rainbow dash was there too.

The two of them had just returned from a friendship mission over in the coast and just returned today. They then heard about a competition happening near sweet apple acres, and had a idea on what was going on.

Rainbow dash looked around as she said "Is this...A iron pony competition?!" Spear nodded, glad that they seem somewhat excited about this.

Applejack then gave a holler and said "Yeeeha! Haven't competed in a iron pony competition in years! And after that friendship mission, a good old competition sounds GREAT now!"

Golden, surprisingly, was the one to voice out by saying "Um, what do you mean? This is me and Voice's competition."

Rainbow dash then gave a confused look and said "Is this a joke? You two ummm..."

Applejack, being the element of honesty, decided to be blunt and said "You two don't seem like your that...athletic for this kind of competition." Rainbow dash was surprised that Applejack was being this blunt about it.

Applejack didn't want to sound harsh like that, but she knew that if she didn't, those two were gonna get hurt. So, she hoped that she did them a favor and that they would reconsider this.

Unfortunately, this ended up backfiring. Instead of them feeling discouraged, they actually felt insulted. Voice was the first one to speak up and say "Excuse me? You actually think we can't keep up in this kind of competition?"

Golden was the next one to talk and said "Considering we survived a robot invasion two weeks ago, this competition should be a piece of cake for us."

Apple jack and Rainbow dash were confused on what they were talking about, but its clear that those two are too confident for their own good. Nodding to each other, Rainbow dash then said "OK then, if you two are feeling confident, then you two won't mind if WE enter too! Right?"

Voice and Golden were shocked that the two of them wanted to compete. They knew that some of these events were supposed to test their speed and endurance as mercenarys, but some of them were designed to test their skills as snipers. That WAS the whole point of this competition anyways.

Applejack then smirked as she saw them shocked. This might work out. If simply telling them didn't work, then actually beating them in the competition would have to work. She knows that Rainbow dash had the same idea in mind, and decided to follow her lead. The idea of doing a team up with Rainbow dash crossed her mind, but decided against it.

Since, once she proved herself to Voice and Goldenfox, she was gonna settle the score with Rainbow dash next. Ever since the last Iron pony competition, and the whole mess with the running of the leafs, she's been challenging Rainbow dash to smaller challenges every now and then.

Unfortunately, all of them would end in ties or get called off Cas of something else going on. But this iron pony competition will be the ideal place to settle this old rivalry of their's once and for all. She then smirked at the boys and said " Well? You wanna put your bits were your mouths are? Or are you two a couple yellowbellys?"

Voice and Golden had finally had it. If they wanted to join their grudge match? Then they'll join, with Voice saying "Alright then, if you fillys wanna play ball, then let's play ball."

The four of them glared at each other, with Spear faceplaming, saying "This is not gonna end well."

Soon, Rainbow dash and Applejack, alongside Voice and Golden fox, got ready for the Iron pony competition. As the event got closer, more and more ponys came to witness the event in person. Soon enough, it looked like all of ponyville was here to watch the competition.

And every pony had a favorite they wanted to win. The west side was cheering for Rainbow dash. Those among them were Fluttershy and Pinkie pie, who sported a cheerleader outfit, cheered "GO GO, Rainbow dash! GO GO, Rainbow dash!"

On the east side, they, along with Apple family and Rarity, who also had a cheerleader outfit on, cheered for Applejack, going "Let's go Applejack! Let's go Applejack!"

The north side, with most of the red team(mins Spear) was cheering for Voice with Segasister(Voice's marefriend) in her own cheerleader outfit, cheered "V.O.I.C.E! GOOOOOO VOICE!!!"

And lastly, in the south with the blue team, we're cheering for Golden fox. With Keyframe in her cheerleader outfit. As she cheered, "Golden Golden, He's the best! You are better then the rest! Goooooo, GOLDY BEAR!!!"

Spike, after helping Twilight to her seat in the Applejack bleachers, joined the cmcs to help with the events, while Spear acted as the M.C this time.

Spear then used a voice amplifying spell to act like a microphone and said "Mares and gentlestallions! filly and colts of all ages! May I present, the most exciting spectacle two days in the making..." Spike was with a guitar and a two piece drum set behind him as Spear hyped up. "The iron...pony...COMPETITION!!!"

The spectators roared in excitement as they couldn't wait for the competition to get underway. "As you know, four years ago, Teo mares started this competition to find out who was the best athlete in equestria."

Spear then opened his eyes as he gets the crowd pumped as he said "But now! After all this time! It's time we find out who is this years, Iron pony champion! And heeeeere they are!"

The crowd cheered loudly as the saw the competitors line up in the middle of thr field. Voice and Golden were wearing their sniper outfits, while Rainbow dash was wearing a work out outfit with a top similar to the wonderbolts uniforms and black yoga pants, and Applejack had a red top with green apple designs and black yoga pants. (Both made by Rarity)

"Here are our four superstars competitors who are about to fight for the chance to win the greatest prize in the sports world..."

Spear then what looked like a gold medal as he announced, "The iron pony, Gold medal!"

The crowd then cheered like crazy as they saw the medal. The medal also got the competitors extra fired up with the medal as proof of their potential victory.

"Now, let me introduce our iron pony competitors!" Spear then started to introduce each of the competitors one by one. "Our first competitor is a pokemon expert and has a soft spot for griffins. Nicknamed 'Wallbreaker', Give it up for Voice of reason!"

The crowd cheered as Voice blushed from the attention.

Spear then walked next to Golden as he says "he's a famous streamer and smooth with his guitar. He and his Dimond mark are raring to go, say hello to Golden fox!"

The crowd cheered as Golden fox waved back at the crowd as he saw Keyframe in the stands.

Spear then walked to the next competitor and introduced her. "She's captain of the ponyville weather team, and is in the wonderbolts reserves. It's the element of loyalty herself, Rainbow dash!"

The crowd cheered as Rainbow waved as normal. But as she waved, her thoughts returned to the moment she saw Spear lifeless, dead in the Everfree. And her nightmare had hunted her for the past two weeks since dealing with the phantom. She needed to put those thoughts on hold for now. She was in a contest now, and she needed to focus on it now.

Spear walked to the last competitor and said "She's a hard working farmgirl, who is always there for her friends! The element of honestly herself, Applejack!"

As Applejack bashfully waved back, something then caught her attention. 'She's a hard working farmgirl who is always there for her friends.' But was that really true? Has she been there for for her friends over the past month? She didn't even hear about the argument between Twilight and Spear till a month later and by then it was far too late. She'll have to wait until later to think about this. There's a contest to win first.

The competition started with the first event. A familiar one to Rainbow dash and Applejack. "The first event! The barrel run! Each pony runs zig-zag around the barrels and crosses the finish line. The fastest time at the end wins the event. And careful not to hit a barrel, there will be a five second penalty per hit."

The event started with Applejack, who moved swiftly around the barrels with ease. Unfortunately, she nicked a barrel with her flank, and left a splinter on it. "Ouch! Dang-nab it!" She walked over to thr others and wanted to get her time. "Well? What's my time? (Ouch)"

Spike looked at his stopwatch and gave a shocked expression as he said "16.5 seconds!"

Applejack then gave a happy "Yeeha! That's faster then the last time I competed! I might do well in this year's rode-" "But, I'm gonna have to give you a 5 second penalty for nicking the barrel."

This annoyed Applejack as she said "Houseapples. (Ow) Well, that's still 21.5 seconds. That's still a respectful time. (Ouch, oooooh)"

Spear ends up noticing twitching in pain a bit as he sees some spinters on her flank around her cutie mark. He the. Decided to say "A.J, you look like you're in pain. Are the splinters getting to you?"

Applejack tried you put a brave face and said "I-It's nothing. (Ow) j-just a...um..." she then looked at Spear and Spike, who were not convinced her was ok, and said "Sigh...yes. the splinters from the barrel I nicked are hurting me. I don't know if I can continue with this pain on my flank."

Spear felt bad for Applejack, as he knew how it feels to miss out on a event because you hurt yourself. So he said "I can help you out A.j. while the others do their runs on the barrels, ok?"

Applejack nodded bashfully as she and Spear headed to the medical tent to get her splinter free.

*Applejack's P.O.V*

"Ok, this should help. Just try and stay still A.j." I stood still as Spear held some tweezers in his hands. Heh, hands. Wonder how helpful they would be around the farm.

Anyways, he was preparing to relieve my flank from those pesky splinters. And while I was greatfull for Spear doing this for me...but I really with nurse Red heart was doing it instead. Cas this is pretty awkward having him THIS close to my flank...not that I mind THAT much. Heh heh.

He gave me his scarf to bite down on so I can brace myself. Well, I'll admit. Maybe Rarity has a ponit about him being a gentle stallion.

He then began to pick them out, one by one. And it was worse then the time I stubbed my hoof into a crate full of Peaches. Why DID we have a crate full of peaches? We're the APPLE family dag-nabbit!

"Hmmm...some of these are really stuck in there." I gulped as I heard that. I hope he doesn't resort to digging into my flesh. It'll leave some ugly marks, and I'll have to borrow some of Rarity's make up to cover it up. And I'm more of a natural type of mare.

"Ummm, A.J?" I turned around and looked at him with a worried look as he said "I'm almost done, but I'm gonna have to get a sturdy grip to get it out. Do you trust me?"

Uh-oh. What does he mean by that? But...I DO trust him. I gritted my teeth and nodded as I looked forward. All right sugercube. Gave it your best- ugh~. Whoa. Did he just...

I looked it the mirror at the corner of my eye, and saw that... he was squeezing my flank! And...oh Celestia, It feel kinda awkward. Yet, kinda good. That I'm barely feeling the last of the splinters getting pulled out.

He then grabbed a tube of relieving cream and put a bit of it on his palms and...of Sweet baby Luna, that hit the spot! I haven't felt like this since Spike gave me rub down awhile back, but- oh my Cadence, this is so good!

He then put a bandage on it as I was still feeling...good from that. He then looked at me with a caring smile as he said "How's my little patient doing?"

I-I...I've never felt like this before. I'm usually taking care of others, and now here I am, on the other end of things. He then kissed me on the cheek and said "That was thanks for everything A.J. And I hope you do your best out there!"

I then felt my heart skip a beat. Not only he kissed me on the cheek, but he was basically saying that he'll be cheering for me?! It was then I knew...I...Was in love with him.

I walked out of the tent, fully dressed, and ready to win! Once I win the contest, I'll use it to confess my feelings for him and ask him out! Now the medal and glory are no longer my goals. True love, was all I cared for!

*Meanwhile*

Spear's P.O.V

Whoa. That was awkward. I knew I could've ask rose heart to help her, but I wanted to show her that we cared for A.J too. I mean, she takes care of us all, right? I thought I should return the favor. Plus...she smelled so sweet. Like Apples. Maybe if my idea for Rarity and Twilight works, I can add A.J to the mix? Hopefully she would be down for that.

Anyway, we arrived back at the event and it seems like voice did ok. I looked at the board and saw that Voice clocked in at 20 seconds. And Rainbow dash at 17 seconds on the dot.

I turned to see A.J, and she looked saddened by the score as I heard her mutter, "If I didn't nick the barrel-"

I decided to encourage her, as I hated to see her down in the dumps like this. I gently stroked her mane and she turned to me, while blushing for some reason, as I said to her " It's ok A.J, It's only the first event. You can make a comeback in this."

I winked at her, as I always do when encouraging someone. But...she seems to blush even more as she then gained a determined look and said "Thanks sugercube."

I smiled as she seemed to be in better spirits as Golden was the last one in the barrel run. But...something weird happens. When he ran, flames seemed to be left behind. And his speed was crazy! But weirdest of all... I feel like I've seen this somewhere before.

I'll have to do some research on it later as Spike called out his time. "16 second!" The crowd cheered as I walked up to Golden and said "Winner of the first event. Goooooolden fox!"

After the first event, the rest of the events when well. Applejack won the lasso contest AND high striker. Rainbow dash won the dribble contest and tug of war (without using her wings this time). Voice won the sidne sleeper contest and hoofball contest. Golden fox not only won the barrel run, but also the fencing contest too. Though, it was a tie during 400m race surprisingly.

Normal P.O.V

The crowd was cheering as the tension was electrifying. As Spike was taking a turn as M.C to say "Fillys and gentecolts! At the final event of the day, our competitors are all tied at two points a piece!" The crowd roared in excitement, as the wanted to know who will win.

Spear walked up as he said "And now, for the final event! The shoot out!" The crowd, while confused, cheered on in excitement by the sound of it Spear began to explain the event. "Here's how it works. Using rifles and a bunch of robot head we had laying around for no reason at all. The pony chosen to go first will call a shot. If the next pony up makes the shot, they are safe."

The competitors listened to the rules as Spear continued. " This will be elimination challenge. So, if you miss the shot, your eliminated. If they make a better shot then the last pony, that pony is eliminated. The last pony left standing, wins it all!"

The crowd roared with anticipation as Spear then said "And to help choose the turn order for the event, please welcome ponyville's resident canine Therapist, Dr.Wolf!"

The ponys then cheered as Doc walked up to the field as Spear said "Well Doc, After all these events, how would you say the competition panned out?"

Doc then pushed his glasses up and said "Well, I do admit, it's actually exciting to see a contest like this in our home town. And even though they were against each other, I hope we can all leave here as friends, and say that it was a fun experience."

Spear smiled as says "That's Doc for ya, always having insightful advice for us to learn." Then then brought the conversation back to topic and said "Ok doc, push the button on this remote to stop the randomizer. Once it stopped, will have our order from the right."

Doc nodded as he pressed the button and the randomizer stopped at Voice. Going first in the last event. With Golden fox going Second, Applejack third, and Rainbow dash last. With the order decided, a 30 minute break was called for to give Applejack and Rainbow dash a chance to learn how to shoot a rifle.

Before the break, Spike and Twilight were at the shelf were the rifles were stored. Twilight was curious on what a rifle was, and wanted to see if there was a spare by any chance.

Spike, however, warned her "Come on Twi, we shouldn't be here. You also need rest after late night.

Twilight sighed and said "I know Spike. After the last event, we'll head back and I'll rest. On two conditions. One. That we take a spare rifle home. And two. I want you to rest with me. You work alot and deserve rest too."

Spike smiled as Twilight found a spare rifle on the rack. When she held it with her magic, it almost felt...natural. Like, she was meant to weld a rifle. She decided to teleport back to her room in the castle, put up the rifle, and return to the competition with Spike. As the event got under way.

Voice went first and made a simple shot. Golden copied the shot almost effectively. Applejack managed to get it. And Rainbow dash, while having a bit of trouble, was able to shoot her target.

This went on for a bit. Till Voice decided to up the aniy. Increasing the heads from one to two. Golden rised it from two to three. Applejack managed to barely make the shot. Unfortunately for Rainbow dash, she missed one of the heads. Eliminating her from the event and coming in last place.

Voice kept the three heads and Golden did too. Unfortunately, Applejack had the sun in his eyes, and missed the heads completely. Knocking her out, and coming in third place.

With Rainbow dash and Applejack out of the competition, Voice decided to stop holding back, and loads up the catapult with five heads and shooting them all. "Heh, bet that, golden hacks."

Golden had a look of determination as he loaded ten heads as Voice said, "Oh THIS I gotta see!"

He then said "Pol!" And the shoot at first missed the target, bounced everywhere, and sniped all ten robot heads as the chowd cheered. Spear then shouted "The winner of the Iron pony competition...GOLDEN FOOOOOOX!"

The crowd roared in excitement as a bunch mares made a rose wreath for the winner. Applejack and Rainbow dash nodded at each other and agreed that next time, they'll be more prepared to compete.

Voice, while mad that he didn't win, still walked up and said "OK, you won this time. But next time, I'll be taking the medal."

Golden looked confused and said "What do you mean? You would want to do this again next year?"

"I think that's a spectacular idea." Everypony looked behind them and saw Princess Celestia and Princess Luna walking up to the winners circle as they all bowed at her presence. She lifted her hoof and said "Rise, my little ponys."

They all raised up as Applejack walked up and asked "Your highness. W-What brings you here?"

Luna then walked up and said "Be not worried Applejack. We just came here to witness the competition live. And I must say, we are impressed at the display you four showed."

Celestia nodded and added "Luna is right. We haven't seen a contest that brought the three pony races together like this since the very first buck ball game a thousand years ago. Of course, that game was a snooze-fest compared to this!"

Luna smiled and laughed as she said "Remember that time when the road ponys tried to shoot a goal and they shot your nachos instead?"

Celestia grunted and rolled her eyes as she shot back, "Wasn't that the same game when your cotton candy spattered into your mane and you nearly maimed the poor pony on the spot?"

Luna grumbled something about taking three hours to wash every piece out before saying "The ponit is that, we agree with you and this should be a yearly event. Waiting four years for the equestria games to come around is far too long to wait. Of course, we ask if more competitors can compete next time, perhaps you and your friends will be willing to join?"

Doc walked up and greatfully said, "It would be our honor, your highnesses."

Celestia smiled as she said "Then we will prepare the arena for next year's iron pony competition. It'll be every year, for every pony to see and enjoy!"

The crowd cheered at the idea that the iron pony competition wasn't a once in a lifetime event, now it'll happen again next year too. As Spear said "And that's all for this year's iron pony competition! Hope you all enjoyed and join us next year as we'll have more competitors, even more challenges, and lots more excitement. But one things for sure. All of our competitors will fighting for one of the greatest prizes in the sports world...the Iron pony, Gold medal! See you all next year!"

Spear then saw Thespio next behind one of the stands and smiled at the opportunity. He used chaos control to teleport behind Thespio and power kicked him in the flank, sending him far and said "That's for yesterday, Thespio!"

*Later*

Dear, Auntie Tia.
Today was absolutely crazy with the iron pony competition. But even with all of that, I still learned two things about friendship. One is that, while it's good to have a contest with your friends, it's important to be a good sport about it. It feels Good to win. But it's even better to have a great time with your friends. The second thing I learned is that, even if you're so busy at times, it important to show that you appreciate the people or ponys around you and show them that you care. Because you'll never know when they won't be in your life anymore. Best wishes, your nephew- Spear loud hedgehog. P.s, give mom a kiss from me and tell her i love her.

*Spear's P.O.V*

As Irolled up the letter to be sended, I walked to his room and saw Twilight hugging Spike in her Sleep. She must've been so scared of losing him last night that she wanted to sleep with him to make sure he wouldn't leave her again. I smiled as I said "Goodnight you two." And I closed the door. I'll ask Spike to send the letter in the morning.

Author's Note

Phew! This chapter evolved from a simple adaptation of the iron pony competition, to almost a full mlp episode. Hope the wait was worth it! Next time will be a original adventure and kind of a sequel to Lightning blisses Magic Satchel magic lesson. Stay turn!