Mlp adventures : A mare in the moon

Chapters

Quest to find the Elements
Origins
Booktales
Ponyville
Nightmare Moon and WHAT???

Quest to find the Elements

”ITS ME” said Zarozard in a really creepy voice.

Twilight couldn’t believe what she was seeing. She was at a lost for words. The man that turned Celestia’s sister evil was alive! He glanced down at the ponies who shivered at the sight of him. For some reason, he looked much scarier than Nightmare Moon.

“Wh-who is that?” Rainbow asked as she started to get creeped out while Fluttershy hid behind her.

“You,” Twilight whispered as she backpedaled. “It can’t be! You died! The book said you were crushed, Zarozard!”

Once again everyone gasped at this and turned towards the balcony. Zarozard jumped off it and landed with one hand on his knee and one on the floor. He slowly got up and walked towards the weird dog that growled even more that his furr started to stand. “You have been quiet the trouble maker, little one.” He said as he ripped the potion off the dogs nick.” You will be coming with us. I might have some… use for you.” As Zarozard opened a portal and the two henchmen jumped through with the dog.

“Seize them!” demanded Mayor mare ordered to the guards. “Only they know were the Princess is!”

The royal guards launched at Nightmare Moon and Zarozard. They didn’t even cringe. “Let’s see if Celestia’s guards are actually competent after these 1000 years.” Nightmare said.

The pegasus and alicorn guards managed to kick Nightmare Moon’s back and the unicorn and alicorn guards held tight back with their magic. But, with a single lightning bolt created by the night alicorn, the guards were all knocked back, except for the alicorn ones. Nightmare Moon shot a beam at the alicorn guards and managed to push them back.” What in Tartarus was that?!” demanded the demonic alicorn. “My sisters guards from a 1000 years ago were defeated by me, but, even they still put up a better fight than THAT!”

“To be fair,” said Shining Armor, “none of the current guards foes were an ancient, alicorn demon from 1000 years ago!”

“Excuse!” yelled the demonic mare before Cadence rushed forward and shot a beam at Zarozard, he causally catches it and crushes it with little effort, scaring Cadence. Zarozard raises his hand, powering it up, and punched the ground causing a shockwave that pushed and sent everypony in the Town Hall flying outside. Nightmare Moon turned into a cloud of mist before it happened. Rainbow also flew out of the building when it exploded to chase her down outside.

“”Nighttime… forever?” Rainbow said in a fearful voice. In the corner of her eye she saw Twilight, Flash and Spike heading back to the library.”Where are they going?”

“Big Mac,” called Applejack over her shoulder, who also recovered from the shockwave. “y’all walk Applebloom home. I have something I need to do.”

The big red stallion nodded while Shining Armor and Cadence tended to the wounded guards. Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy, exchanging confused looks, decided to see what was happening.

At the library, Spike started looking for a book on the Elements of Harmony, struggling to stay awake.

“We’ve got to stop… nightmare…”

“You’ve been up all night, Spike.” Whispered Flash. “You are a baby dragon after all.”

Spike woke up with a start.” I don’t care!” he said. “I’m going to help those ponies if it’s the last thing I do!”

Twilight grew concerned.oh, Spike, that bad habit of you’d is kicking in at full force. she thought to herself.

“I’m going to find that book on the Elements of Harmony even if I have to do it myself!” Spike declared. At that moment, a suspicious Rainbow Dash decided to make herself known.

“And just what ARE the Elements of Harmony?!” demanded Rainbow. “and how did you know about Nightmare Moon and Zarozard? Are you guys spies?!”

“Rainbow Dash?” Flash said as he ran up to them. “What are you doing here?”

“Investigating two suspects on the Princess’s disappearance.” she replied with her hooves crossed.

“You can’t mean use?” Twilight said.

“All I know is that you guys show up in town and the next thing we know, the princess is missing, and some crazy alicorn and old demon creature arrive and has a conversation with you all!” Applejack grabbed Rainbows tail to rein her in again.

“Now hold on there sugarcube.” Applejack said. They all turned to see Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie walk in. “We can’t go accusing folks of misdeeds over something we don’t know.” She turned to them. “But, you do know what’s going on. Doncha Twilight.?”

“Twilight and Flash shared a glance and nodded. They knew that it was best if they were upfront with them. “I read about Nightmare Moon and Zarozard from a story called the Legend of the Two Sisters?”

“I thought that was just an old breezies tale.” Rarity said.

“Wethought that, too.” admitted Spike pointing at Flash too. “But, Twilight pointed out that one of the sisters raised the sun and moon, just like Princess Celestia.”

“I see.” said Rarity. “Anyway, Twilight, please continue.”

“The Elements of Harmony were objects used to send Nitmare Moon to the moon in the first place.” Twilight explained. “Since they did so once, it stands to reason they cdo it again. Celestia sent us here to check on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration and make friends. I was more concerned with finding a way to stop Nightmare Moon than do the latter.”

“No wonder you seemed so impatient.” Fluttershy said. “Why didn’t you tell any of us?”

“Would you have believed me, though?” Twilight glumly commented as her lips quivered. “Even I began to doubt myself. I began to hope that I was wrong even though everything told me I was right. Besides, even if I had told you, it wouldn’t have mattered. There’s nothing any of you could’ve done to prevent this. Princess Celestia is the one who defeated Nightmare Moon and Zarozard all those years ago, not me. I’m but her student and as gifted as I am, I’m not strong enough to take on both villains at once.” She then sought to change the subject. “The only lead I have are these Elements of Harmony. They’re what Princess Celestia used to defeat both Nightmare Moon and Zarozard. Mabye finding them could send Nightmare Moon back to the moon and stop Zarozard.”

“Uh, I don’t think that’s such a good idea, Twilight.” said Spike. “If we send her back to the moon, she’ll just escape again in another 1000 years.”

“Hmm.” Twilight said. “That’s true. Though, I don’t exactly know how Princess Celestia used them before. I don’t know what the Elements of Harmony are, where to find them, or what they do.”

“Mabye this book will help?” said Pinkie. “The Elements of Harmony: A reference guide by Clover the Clever.”

“What?!” Twilight exclaimed as she ran up to the book. “How did you find that?!”

“It was under (E).” The pink pony stated plainly.

“Oh.” Twilight said in an embarrassing tone. Flash couldn’t help but giggle a bit as he watched Twilight open the book. She then opened the reference guide to a particular page. Little did she know that Nightmare Moon was listening.“There are seven Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, courage, and Loyalty. The seventh is a complete mystery. It is said, that the last known location of the six Elements of Harmony is in the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sister. It is located in what is now…” Twilight went wide eyed as she dropped the book and gulped. “It can’t be…”

“What is it?” Flash asked, but he had a feeling he wouldn’t like the answer.

“The Everfree Forest.” Twilight answered.

“The Everfree Forest?!” Exclaimed the other six ponies.

Spike stood with a look of determination. “Well, what are we waiting for?” he said. “Let’s go!”

Twilight wasn’t hearing any of it. “Please, Spike. I have enough on my plate as it is without your bad habit kicking in.” The other mares overheard this.

“Twilight.” Applejack said in a firm voice. “Given that we’re about to venture into a dark and scary forest at night, it wouldn’t be a good idea ta leave Spike here on his lonesome. It’d be better if you took him ta keep an eye out for him.”

“I half to agree Twilight.” Flash admitted. “Spike is just a kid and knowing that there are dangerous villains out there, we might want to keep a close eye on them.” The other mares nodded.

Spike nodded too. “These ponies have shown me more respect in a single day than I usually get in a week.” he reaffirmed. “It just wouldn’t feel right if I just sat on my claws without trying to help them. I’ve made up my mind.”

Twilight knew that once Spike made up his mind on something, there was no changing it. She’d tried many times with no success. So, she relented. ”Fine, but you’re staying by my side.” she stated.

Soon, the group was standing outside the entrance of the forest. Its trees were tall and had rather dismal looking foliage. It was clear that the first wasn’t like any other first. It was so thick that Flash couldn’t even see further than a few feet. “Whee!” cried Pinkie. “Let’s go!” She cheered as she started bouncing towards it.

“Okay everypony.” Flash said as he pointed to the forest. “We don’t know what’s in there, so we need to stay together and stay calm, agreed?” he looked around and everypony nodded.

“This will be a risky operation.” Twilight said. “I would rather if Spike and I just did this on our own.”

“Look here.” Rainbow interjected. “I do stupid stuff for giggles, but, even I’M smart enough to not go in there alone.”

“Yeah, no way.” Flash shook his head. “I promised that I would be there for you and that’s that. We’re going into this together. I’m sorry Twilight but, this is our choice as much as it is yours.” he told her before turning to the others. “Right everypony?”

“True that.” Rainbow said as she shined a nice grin.

“Yeah!” Applejack smirked. “We’re stickin’ ta you like caramel on a candy apple.”

She and the others trotted into the forest. “Especially if we find some in there.” Pinkie added.

Twilight, Flash, and Spike looked at Pinkie in confusion. “You expect to find candy in a forest where ponies usually AVOID going into?” Spike questioned.

“Well,” Pinkie said. “nopony ever tried. You never know.” She trotted off.

“I have concerns about what goes on in that mares head.” Flash whispered to Twilight.

Twilight nods to herself at Flash’s remark. She had Spike on her back and cautiously entered the forest with the other ponies.”So, none of you have been in here before?”

“Oh heavens no!” Rarity said, a slight shiver in her voice. “It’s dreadful. I’m not a woodsy type anyway, but, still.”

Spike looked around. “It looks like a bunch of trees to me.” he said.

“They ain’t like the trees we grow in Sweet Apple Acres, though…” Applejack said. “This forest ain’t natural. Folks say it ain’t work the same as Equestria.”

“That’s why we have to be prepared for anything that might come our way.” Flash said. Unknown to the ponies and dragon, Nightmare Moons mist burrows into the soil of the cliff they’re on.

“What did you mean ‘works differently’?” Spike asked with growing concern. “Are there whomping willows in the forest?”

“Whomping Willows?” Asked Fluttershy curiously.

“Twilights studied a LOT of things in Canterlot.” Spike said. “One thing she came across was a valuable, violent species of magical plants known as the Whomping Willows. They’ll attack anypony and anyTHING that gets within range of their branches.”

“Well.” Fluttershy said. “They certainly sound dangerous, but, I hadn’t heard of any instances of them being in the Everfree Forest.”

The group suddenly found themselves walking by a tree with fewer others around it than most.

“I have a bad feeling about that tree.” Twilight said. Her misgivings turned out to be true when an unsuspecting little bird flew by the tree and a branch as thick as a python smacked it away.

“EEK!” Fluttershy squeaked in a frightened way. “Now, I HAVE heard of an instance of one in the Everfree Forest!”

“I think we should stay way from trees like that for now on.” Flash said, trying to hid his own fears.

The others quietly confirmed and carefully made their way by the tree. Soon, they were near a cliff.

“That was close.” Twilight sighed. “Hopefully, the worst is over now.”

“Right.” said Spike. “We should keep looking for the ruins.”

Just at that moment, the ground they’re on sagged a bit.

“Be careful, y’all.” Applejack said. “If things get to load around here, it’ll trigger a collapse.”

Poor timing seemed to hit Pinkie at that moment because some pollen got up her nose and made her sneeze confetti. Suddenly, the ground crumbled beneath them and Applejack shouted, “AVALANCHE!” Flash, Rainbow and Fluttershy took to the air, only to see their flightless friends fall down the cliff side. Their friends started sliding down to a steep cliff to a hundred foot drop.

“We gotta catch them! Now!” Flash ordered.

“On it! Come on, Fluttershy!” Rainbow yelled as she and Flash shot down.

“Oh my goodness, Oh my goodness! Fluttershy followed after them.

Spike dug his claws into the dirt to save himself while Rainbow grabbed Pinkir and Fluttershy grabbed Rarity.

“Where’s Applejack and Twilight?” Gasped Spike.

Rainbow set Pinkie down before flying back up to check. Flash also checked while Rainbow helped Fluttershy with Rarity. “There!”

“Hang on, Twilight!” Spike and Flash said in unison. But Flash’s ears caught the sound of the ground crumbling. He looked up and saw that a huge boulder was rolling towards them, and if it wasn’t stopped, it would flatten Twilight, Spike, and Applejack. Meanwhile, Twilight saw Spike scurrying towards her. oh no, she thought. Even now, his habits taking over at full force!

Spike made it to Twilight and tried helping Applejack lift Twilight up. The sound of rumbling caused them to turn around and see the boulder rolling towards them. They all scream until Flash spread his wings as he readied himself. With all his strength, he threw himself at the boulder, reaching it as it was only a few feet away from the others. His force kept the massive rock back as he pushed the rock more and more.

“Flash!” The trio yelled, worry pouring into over their faces.

“Save Twilight…” he replied back, “Now!”

“Spike, Applejack!” cried Twilight. “What do we do?!”

“I don’t know!” cried Spike as he struggled.

Applejack saw Rarity and Pinkie safely on the ground and heard the soft beat of wing flaps down below. Applejack then said, “Let go.”

Twilight, Flash, and Spike couldn’t believe what they were hearing. “Are you crazy?!” they blurted.

“No ah ain’t.” said Applejack calmly. “Rainbow n’ Fluttershy will catch you, Twilight. Ah’ll bring Spike down safely myself. Would Ah lie in this situation?”

“We barely know you!” Twilight protested. “How should I know if I can trust you?!”

“We barely know you and we trust you on the Elements of Harmony.” Applejack replied sharply.

“She’s got a point there.” Spike said.

“I… guess… Okay.” Twilight conceded. “Make sure Spike at least gets down safe.”

“Ah promise he’ll be safe.” Applejack said in a motherly voice.

Twilight looked into her eyes and with all her courage, she released her hold of Applejack and fell.

“TWILIGHT!” Flash screamed, seeing his best friend fall, screaming. Fortunately, Rainbow and Fluttershy were able to catch her before she hit the ground. Spike grew excited. “Way to go, girrrr…” he trailed off and began leaning forward over the edge.

“Whoa, nelly!” Applejack exclaimed as she quickly wrapped a hoof around Spikes chest and pulled him close to her. “You really need ta be careful, sugercube.”

Spike didn’t respond as Applejack saw that he was sleeping. She put him on her back and made her way down. As Applejack made her way down, Flash finally released the boulder. The rock soon rolled straight into where the two ponies and dragon had previously been and smashed the ground with incredible force.

Meanwhile, Rainbow and Fluttershy brought Twilight down safely. “Thanks for the assist, girls.” Twilight said.

Applejack made her way down with the unconscious Spike on her back. “Oh my goodness!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Is Spike ok?”

“The little fellers alright, just passed out and nearly fell off the cliff.” Applejack said.

“Twilight, are you alright?!” Flash asked when he reached them.

“I’m fine Flash.” She said turning to Applejack. “Oh, I was afraid of this.” Twilight said as she levitated Spike onto her back. “His bad habit will get him in big trouble.”

“You mentioned that habit earlier,” Rarity said. “What exactly does this habit entail?”

Twilight saw that the other mares were concerned. She looked at Flash, as he gave her a look that told her what to do. She decided to confess. “I’m sure by now, Spikes told you he’s not very popular in Canterlot.”

“He has, yeah.” Rainbow Dash said.

Twilight steeled herself.” That’s a gross understatement.” she said. “He’s not even given the same rights as other ponies. At best, he’s not addressed by name.”

“That’s downright horrible!” Applejack gasped in horror.

“I’ve kept him in my room all day for the better part of six years to spare him from such mistreatment.” Twilight continued, tears welling up in her eyes.

“So,” Fluttershy said. “Spike doesn’t have any friends besides you two?”

“And my teacher, and Twilights brother, parents, and our foalsitter, and four of her classmates.” Flash admitted, putting a hoof around he’s best friends shoulder to comfort her.” Spike softens up when he’s shown even the tiniest bit of compassion.”

“So, that’s why he was so eager to help out.” Applejack added.

“It’s also part of the problem.” Flash continued. “He goes out of his way to help anyone who treats him with respect, often pushing himself to the point of exhaustion, endangering himself.”

“Well,” Applejack said. “I hope we can help him overcome his habit.”

“It’s not that simple.” Twilight said.”I should know. I’ve been raising him these past ten years.” Twilight realized what she said and covered her mouth.

“Twilight?” Fluttershy asked with concern.“Are you alright?”

Twilight sighed again. “ Fluttershy, I told you that me, Flash, and my whole family was tasked with raising Spike.” she said. “That wasn’t entirely true.”

“What do you mean?” asked Pinkie. “Is he a foundling found in a basket left on your doorstep?”

“No.” Twilight said. “I hatched his egg as part of an entrance exam. I alone was tasked with raising him. My parents helped, and when I met Flash he was sort of like a father to him, but, it was ultimately my task to preform.”

“Oh, Twilight, that’s so sweet.” Fluttershy said. “I mean, it must not have been easy, but, knowing that Spike is growing up into such a healthy young dragon, it really is a wonderful thing you’re doing.”

Twilight was taken aback. “You don’t think any less of me?”

“Why would we?” asked Pinkie.

“When I was a filly, strangers judged me for raising a dragon.” Twilight confessed. “That made it hard for me to make friends, so, I began getting more into my studies as a coping mechanism.”

“It wasn’t until she met me.” Flash said. “After I met Twilight, she began to have more hope on the problem. But, she still didn’t make that many other friends from her fear of Spike getting hurt.”

“Why didn’t you tell us, darling?” Rarity asked.

“Because I was afraid that you’d judge me for it, too.” Twilight explained as tears welled up in her eyes. In response Flash pulled her in for a hug.

“Are you kidding?” Rainbow said. “You’re a stronger mare than any of us!”

“Yeah!” Applejack said comfortingly. “Ya remind me of my Granny Smith. Shes had to look after me, my brother, and my sister. I think you’re amazing, Twi.”

Twilight and Flash raised eyebrows at this. “What about your parents?” Twilight asked.

Applejack frowned and put her hat to her heart. “They died three years ago.” she confessed.

“Oh, I’m so sorry.” Twilight said sympathetically. “I didn’t know.”

“Ya didn’t ask, neither.” Applejack said. “It ain’t something I like ta talk about.”

“We understand.” Flash said.

At that moment, Spike stirred. “So do I.” he said.

“Spike!” Twilight gasped.

“How much did ya hear?” Applejack asked.

“The whole thing.” Spike admitted. “I have keen hearing thanks to Twilight pulling all-nighters.”

“Still.” Rarity said. “We my have only just met today, but, hearing your story doesn’t make us think any less of you than we do, Twilight. And you to Flash.”

“Thanks” he said.

“Well, uh-!” Rainbow said, wiping a tear from her eye. “We better continue our journey and find these Elements before things get too sappy.”

“By the way.” Flash said, turning to Applejack. “Thank you for helping Twilight, and Spike back there. I really mean it.”

“Aw shucks…” Applejack said with a tip of her hat. “It was nothing. We should be thanking you ‘Mister Muscles’ for stopping that boulder. You’re pretty strong for a Non-Earth Pony. Thou… You are an alicorn so it does make scene.”

“I’ve had years of training.” Flash replied, flexing his hooves while pretending to act macho, getting giggles from the mares and dragon.

Unknown to the group, the mist of Nightmare Moon was observing the situation from afar.

“Blast that puny apple farmer!” A voice hissed to itself. “She had to go and ruin everything!”

“Please!” Another voice desperately protested. “We don’t want to bring harm to other ponies! What we want is respect.”

The first voice replied. “The only way to get respect is to be feared. And I’ll teach those ponies to fear me if it’s the last thing I do! We were given orders to stop anyone from reaching the castle! And this forest is filled with dangers, it’s time I took advantage of them!” And then without being noticed, the mist raced ahead of the ponies, striking a creature far ahead on the path.

For about 10 minutes, nothing happened as they trekked on. The ponies and Spike continued to chat amongst each other as they walked. Rainbow in particular was recounting the rescue she and Fluttershy made to Spike

“As soon as Pinkie and Rarity were saved,” Rainbow said. “Me and Fluttershy loop de looped around and Wham! Caught Twilight in the nick of time.”

Spike nodded. “I saw part of that before I passed out.”

“Oh, right.” Rainbow said sheepishly.

“And we are all very grateful.” said Flash. “But, we have to keep going until-“ but the Flash picked up on something and began sniffing the air. “We’re not alone.”

“Well of course not silly.” Pinkie replied with a cheeky grin. “How can we be alone when there’s eight of us?”

“I think he means somepony other than us is here.” Rainbow said with her hooves crossed. Making Pinkie blush in embarrassment.

“Flash?” Twilight asked with a tinge of fear. “What are you feeling?” She had learned over the years to never doubt Flash’s senses.

“I smell something.” he replied as he sniffed again. “And is getting closer.”

“Is it another pony?” Rarity asked.

“Doesn’t seem like it.” Flash said before look at the ground. He then turned to Applejack and Pinkie Pie. “You two feel anything?” Golden Glow had once told him that Earth Ponies were sensitive to vibrations in the ground, meaning they could sometimes tell if something was moving nearby.

“Not really.” Applejack said as she shook her head.

“Nope, nope, nope.” Pinkie replied with a rapid head shake.

“Be on guard everypony and Spike, stay behind me.” Twilight said and at that moment, there was a loud roar.

“What was that?” Rarity asked.

“Trouble.” Flash replied as his statement was met by something big jumping out of the shadows. This creature looks like a lion with a scorpion tail and bat wings. The ponies and dragon knew at once what it was.

A manticore!” Spike gasped. The manticore roared with a voice like a tuba.

“We gotta get past him!” Twilight said. However, Fluttershy noticed that the manticore kept one paw off the ground, meaning something was wrong. Rarity didn’t notice or simply ignored it. She bucked the manticore in the face.

“Take that, you ruffian!” She said in a heroic way. The monster responded by roaring in her face. The force from the manticores breath steamed Rarity’s mane and tail into an afro-like style. “My hair!”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Would you rather be your neck?

The manticore was about to slash at Rarity, who used her magic to protect herself.

“Wait!” Fluttershy said softly. Unfortunately, only Spike and Flash heard her.

“Uh, gir-“ Spike started before being cut off.

“Not now, Spike.” Rainbow interrupted.

Applejack jumped onto the manticore’s back she started to ride it like how a rodeo star would ride on a bucking bull.

“Girls, I really think you should-“ Spike tried to say.

“Get past that manticore, yes. We already figured that out, Spike!” Rainbow interrupted again.

“Yes haw!” exclaimed Applejack.”Get along, little doggy!”

“Wait!” Fluttershy said again. Just like last time, only Spike and Flash heard.

“It sounds like Fluttershys-“ Spike once again tried to say.

“Not doing anything useful right now, we know!” Rainbow interrupted as Applejack got thrown off.

“All yours, partner.” she said as she flew past Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow smirked. “Gladly!”

Rainbow Dash charged at the manticore.

“Wait!” Fluttershy said quietly again. It was too late, Rainbow was flying circles around the manticore. Flash was getting angry that the others won’t listen to Spike and Fluttershy.

“You give up?” Rainbow remarked to the beast, who replied by striking her with its tail.

“Rainbow!” Twilight shouted in concern. Rainbow got up despite a bit of pain. Five of the mares quickly gathered their composure and summed what courage they could muster on short notice. Then they all ran towards the manticore together, prepared to take it on all at once and hopefully prevail.

But, before they could attack, Flash ‘with Spike on his back’ jumped in front of them and shouted at the top of his lungs, “Ennooouuuugh!!!” His shout was like a small gal that stopped the mares in their tracks. Fluttershy, seeing her chance, then calmly walked up to the manticore.

“Fluttershy, what are you-“ Rainbow started before Flash cut her off.

“Fluttershy’s been trying to tell you all something!” he declared. “So, maybe instead of charging head-first at a creature that could easily kill you in seconds like a bunch of idiots with a death wish, maybe you should listen to the only one of use us that’s a Critter Talker!”

“Who’s that?” Pinkie said obviously. The others, minus Fluttershy, looked at her with a look of,” Are you kidding me?” “Oh, yeah. Fluttershy.” she said meekly.

“You were holding back, weren’t you?” Fluttershy asked the manticore.

The manticore made low soft noises. Somehow, these noises seemed to come from a different creature: a more mildly-tempered one.

“I could tell because you were only putting one paw on the ground.” Fluttershy soothed. Spike and the other ponies then noticed that the manticore had his left paw front paw curled up.

“Well, ah’ll be…” said Applejack.

Spike then looked at Rarity.” You have Mystic Eyes of Detail.” he pointed out. “How did you NOT notice that?”

“I wasn’t looking at its feet.” Rarity protested. “I was a be preoccupied with its upper body.”

The manticore glared at Rarity with a snarl. “Joey Teeth doesn’t like being called ’it, ‘Rarity,” Fluttershy said.

“He has a name?” Rainbow Dash asked. “And it’s Joey Teeth?”

Fluttershy nodded. “Yes. And he’s not really trying to hurt us.”

Joey then timidly showed Fluttershy the thorn that’s in his paw. “Whoa!”, said Spike. “No wonder he was acting that way. A thorn in the foot would make ANYPONY miserable.”

“Oh, you poor thing.” Fluttershy said in a sad tone, “Now, this might hurt just a bit.” She yanked the thorn out with her teeth. Joey winced in pain for a second, but, after the soreness subsided, he gave Fluttershy affectionate licks on her face.

“You’re just a big baby kitty, aren’t you, Joey?” cooed Fluttershy.

“Hey, Flutters?” Rainbow Dash said sheepishly. “We’re sorry we were so caught up on the fight to notice or listen to you.”

“It’s okay,” Fluttershy said. “In your defense, I was being too quiet.”

“But, how did you know he wouldn’t attack you after the thorn was was out?” Twilight asked.

“Easy,” Fluttershy said softly. “Something we all just need to show a little kindness. And that little kindness can go a long way.”

Had any of them looked back, they might have seen the thorn dematerialize and turn into dark blue mist. “Why didn’t that work?!” The first voice complained.

“You underestimate these ponies.” The second voice replied. “Please, let use go. You have already done enough to taint our reputation! Especially working with that monster!”

But, the first voice only hissed anew. “Never, it’s too late for that now! We were given orders to slow them down and not let anyone near the castle. I think it’s time I showed these ponies why they call me Nightmare Moon!”

The ponies and dragon went deeper into the Everfree Forest, the ponies and Spike walked. Rarity was soon feeling uneasy. “Ow! My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck! she complained. She soon got her wish, as the eight were plunged into pitch darkness as the trees grew thicker and blocked the moonlight. “Well, I didn’t mean that literally.”

“Why don’t you three cast an illumination spells?” Spike asked Twilight, Rarity, Flash. “You do HAVE horns after all.”

The two unicorns did so, only for a mysterious force to short out their magic. “It doesn’t look like that’ll work, Spike.” Twilight said. “Somethings jamming our magic.”

“Well, looks like I’ll have to help out.” Spike said. He took a deep breath before gently breathing a tiny green flame like a torch.

“Thank you, Spike.” Said Fluttershy. She gave the okay sign.

“What’s that mean?” Rainbow asked.

“Spike can’t talk and use his fire breath at the same time.” Twilight explained. “That sign means, ‘okay.’ Right Flash?” When she turned to see the stallion he was nowhere to be seen. “Flash? Flash were are you?” Twilight and the others looked around to not see him. “Flash?!” Twilight began to panic.

As they frantically looked for the alicorn. The purple-blue wisp of magic seeped into the roots of the trees in the forest. One tree poured some dew over Spike, extinguishing his flame.

“Oh, no!” sputtered Spike. “My fire went out! It’ll take hours before my dragon flame is reignited.”

“Can’t you just relight it now?” Rainbow asked.

“No, I can’t.” said Spike. “Don’t you know anything about dragon fire?”

“I never met one until yesterday.” Rainbow said. “So, no.”

“Oh, yeah.” Spike said in an embarrassed tone. “Well, you see, my stomach works kind of like a furnace. When I use my fire breath, I’m expelling extra fire from my body so I don’t get too hot. If water gets in my stomach, it gets cooled down and it takes a while to heat back up again.”

“As fascinating as this lecture on dragon biology is.” Twilight interjected. “We still have a 1000+ year old alicorn causing eternal night and probably has my best friend to deal with here!”

“Oh, shoot!” exclaimed Applejack. “I think I stepped in something.” Fluttershy screamed. “It’s just mud.”

Applejack went to wipe her muddled up hoof on a nearby tree trunk, when she was caught off-guard by a rather scary face on the tree. Five of the mares baked up in fear as they saw the faces. “Really?” questioned Spike. “They’re just trees. None of them look like Whomping Willows.” Unfortunately, the mares were too frightened to listen. That is, except Pinkie Pie, who could be heard… laughing?

The other mares looked to see Pinkie was indeed laughing her head off at a tree. She even making silly noises and funny faces at the tress. “Pinkie, what are you doing?!” Twilight cried. “Run!”

“From some clearly NON-Wyoming Willow trees?” Spike pointed out.

“Well, these trees could have also been dangerous.” Fluttershy said.

“Oh, girls don’t you see?” Pinkie said cheerily. It was at that moment, she began to sing. “When I was a little filly and the sun was going down~”

“Don’t tell she’s not…” Twilight said in disbelief.

“The darkness and the shadows,” Pinkie continued. “They would always make me frown~”

“She is.” confirmed Rarity.

I’d hide under my pillow from what I thought I saw~” Pinkie sang, bouncing around the group. “But, Granny Pie said that wasn’t the way to deal with fears at all~”

“Then what is?” Rainbow Dash asked. With the way she spoke, it was hard to tell if she really wanted to know or just wanted the singing to stop.

“She said,’Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall, learn to face your fears~’” Continued Pinkie, getting ridiculously close to Rainbow Dash’s face.”You’ll see that they can’t hurt you, just laugh to make them disappear–!”

She bounced up to one particular tree and she throaty laughed.

“Ha! Ha! Ha!” She laughed. As if magic, the scary face on the tree disappeared. The others gasped in surprise. “So~ Giggle at the ghostly, guffaw at the grossly~ crack up at the creepy, whoop it up with the weepy, chortle at the kooky, snortle at the spooky~” She then picked up speed. “And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you, he’s got another thing coming, and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna-“ She’s interrupted by a sudden burst of laughter.

Soon, all the mares and Spike find themselves in a state of laughter. The foliage even parted, making the forest easy to see through again. “See?” said Spike. “They were just trees. Nothing dangerous about them.”

“Yes, Spike” said Twilight, “You were right.”

“A little laughter can go a long way.” Pinkie said.

“It did help to make everything less scary.” Fluttershy said, a giggle still present in her voice.

The bushes all of a sudden started moving and out came Flash, worried sick and glad they were all ok. “Everyone alright?” he asked.

“Flash!” Twilight said, as she got up and hugged him. “Where were you?! We were worried!”

“You were worried?!” he exclaimed back. “I was having a panic attack when I heard you all scream! What happened?!”

“Yeah, sorry…” she said with a slight blush. “We kind of let the dark play tricks on us.”

“Luckily, Pinkie was there.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Indeed.” Rarity continued. “She helped us laugh our fears away.”

“Laugh your fears away?” Flash repeated, confused.

“Don’t ask.” Applejack said, still giggling.

Then, Pinkie stood up. “Come on, guys! We’re not going to let this spooky frost get the best of us, now are we?!” And without waiting for a reply she bounced away, prompting Spike and the other ponies to follow her until slowly but surely, most natural light began to illuminate the frost again.

Meanwhile, back in the darkened part of the frost, the dark blue mist was appearing once again. The scary faces had failed to phase the ponies like one of the voices had hoped.

The voice of Nightmare Moon again complained to herself. “Curses! Why is nothing working?! Everything I throw at these ponies, they just throw it right back at me like it’s nothing!”

The other voice once again pleaded. “Stop this, now! We will never regain the trust of our subjects like this. We are suppose to protect them from what frightens them, not make them fear us even more!”

But, the voice of Nightmare Moon only growled. “This is why I’m in charge and you’re not. You’re too weak to do what needs to be done!” And she then vowed. “One way or another, I will stop them from reaching the castle! All will bow to us eventually, or would you rather I cast you off and find a more worthy host?”

“No!” The other voice whined! “Please, do not abandon us! We will have no one left to protect us!”

“Excellent,” Nightmare Moon smiled. “So leave everything to me from now on. Those ponies may be tough p, but, they’re not invincible!” And then the dark blue mist took off once more. The then approached a large purple serpent with an orange coiffed mane and mustache filing his nails nonchalantly in his stream of smirking to himself.

“Ah, Steven Magent.” said the creature. “You are simply fabulous.”

He blew the excess keratin off his field nails. Suddenly, the mist flew Pat him and ripped half his mustache off.

“Ah!” Steven yelped in surprise. He caught sight of his reflection in the steam and saw the aftermath. This caused him to be overwhelmed with sorrow and he began to cry. As he cried, his serpentine body began to churn the waters of the stream.

Spike and the ponies arrived and saw the churning river.

“This could be tricky.” Flash said.

“Fluttershy, Flash, and I could fly over.” Rainbow suggested.

And what about us?” Applejack questioned.

“We could carry you.” Rainbow smiled. “I mean, it would take a few turns to get everyone across, but-“

Rainbow Dash’s train of thought was suddenly introduced by the sound of Stephen Magnet nearby sobbing. They followed the noise and saw the serpent flailing about.

“What a world! What a world!” Steven sobbed.

“A serpents causing this?” Fluttershy observed.

“Excuse me, sir?” Twilight asked. “But, what’s the matter? Why are you crying?”

“And what’s a sea serpent doing so far from the ocean?” Spike asked innocently.

Steven stopped sobbing and looked indignant.” I’ll not be called a boorish sea serpent, thank you kindly.” he huffed. “I, Steven Magnet, am a dignified RIVER serpent. See serpents are much larger than I am and live in saltwater.”

“I’m sorry,” Spike said apologetically. “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

“That still doesn’t really answer my questions, Ugh… Steven, was it?” Twilight said.

“As for why I was crying.” Steven said with a sniffle. “I was sitting here, minding my own business, when, WHOOSH! This gross cloud of purple smoke just whisked by and cut half of my beloved mustache clean off… and now, I look simply HORRID!” Resuming his sobbing, Steven flailed around again, splashing Spike and the ponies.

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Rainbow Dash said, clearly annoyed. “It’ll grow back.”

“Do you even realize how long it takes to grow a mustache?” Steven retorted.

“We don’t actually.” We’re six mares and a dragon who hasn’t entered puberty yet.”

“And who knows when THAT’LL happen?” Spike said. “I’m ten pony years old and I’m still considered a baby dragon”

“And I shave my face every once a week, so I don’t fully know how it feels, sorry.” Flash said.

“But, seriously?” Applejack said.”Thats what all the fuss is about?”

Rarity stepped up in a huff.

“Well, of course it is.” Rarity said indignantly.”How can you be so insensitive? Why, just look at Stephen. Such lovely luminescent scales.”

Steven seemed to perk up a bit.” Oh, thank you, I know.” he said.

Rarity continued her barrage of compliments.

“And such an expertly coiffed mane.” Rarity said with a flattering smile. Stephen stroked the mane in question.

“I know.” Steven said. “I have my own formula for moussing any hair.”

Rarity continued.

“And such expertly manicured claws.” Rarity said sweetly. Steven brightened up even more.

“Oh, that’s so true, thank you.” Stephen said happily.

“All ruined with only half a mustache.” Rarity said solemnly.

“It’s true, I’m hideous!” Steven cried before breaking out into another fresh set of tears.

Rarity’s look became one of determination. “I simply cannot let such a crime of against fabulousity go uncorrected.” She declared, as she turned to Spike softly. “Spike, come over here please.”

Spike came to Rarity’s beck and call and stood next to her.

“Yes, Rarity?” Spike asked with a small, eager to please smile. Suddenly, Rarity’s horn lit up and Spikes right claw was engulfed in the same aura.

I just need your assistance for just one second, Spike.” Rarity said, confusing the others.

“Uh, Rarity?” Spike asked. “I don’t mind helping, but, what exactly are we doing?”

“Yeah, what are you—“ Twilight started before being cut off by a slashing noise.

Steven gasped in surprise and fainted from the shock. Spike was equally surprised that Rarity had used his claw to off cut her tail off. Rarity then used her magic to weave her severed tail onto the end of Stephens cleaved mustache. Steven observed the replacement. Seeing as it compliments his complexion, he feels happy again.

“Oh!” Steven said, rejoicing.”My mustache! How wonderful!” The River calmed just as he did.

“You look smashing.” said Rarity with a smile.

“Rarity, your tail!” said Spike.

“Oh, it’s quite alright.” Rarity said reassuringly. “Short tails are in for the summer season. I wouldn’t be able to run a boutique if I didn’t keep ahead of the trends.”

“That’s a fair point.” Flash said. Twilight then looked to see the waters of the stream had calmed. “Look! We can cross now. Let’s go!”

“Allow me, little ones.” Steven said, making himself into a walk bridge. “This is a very deceptive deep river.”

Steven then plucked one of his scales off.” Take one of my scales, too.” he offered. “They not only glow in the dark, and extremely hard and durable, but, they’re sharp enough to cut through stone.”

“That is helpful.” Twilight said. “Thank you very much.” Spike held the scale as the ponies hopped across the serpent.

But, as the ponies and dragon were reaching the other side and heading deeper into the forest, they were still unaware of the dark blue smoke that was watching them.

Nightmare Moon was losing her patience fast. “They’re still going! Nothings working!” She complained. “Do they really think they a chance against me?!Me?!”

The other voice responded. “Perhaps they do. Soon, we shall be free and in control agains!”

Nightmare Moon thought otherwise as she growled.”No! I won’t allow that to happen! This is gone far enough! I know how to split them up.” And her mind began to scheme.

Soon, spike and the ponies soon reached the outskirts of the Ancient Ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.Thou, it was still far way (barely see able in the distance) it was still in range. The area surrounding them was noticeably cloaked in fog.

“There it is.” Twilight said. “The ruins that hold the Elements of Harmony! We did it!”

Twilight was about to run to the castle, but, because of the fog, she was unaware that there was a rope bridge that broken off at one end. Spike saw it as she approached it. “Wait, Twilight!”

Twilight, having learned by that point to listen to Spikes warning, stopped running. And just in time as she saw that the bridge was out.

Flash flew over to her to make sure she was okay. “You ok Twi? Nothing broke or injured?” he said anxiously.

Twilight smiled, embarrassment covering her face. “Sorry about that.”

“You seem to have a thing for falling off cliffs today.” Rainbow joked, the others catching up. “Rushing into stuff I’d supposed to be my thing.”

“Now what?” Pinkie asked.

“Duh.” Rainbow said flapping her wings.

“Oh, yeah!” Pinkie giggled at her silly realization.

“It’s all yours Rainbow.” Flash said.

Rainbow flew into the gap to get part of the bridge. Once she grabbed the still stable ropes, she flew up to the side where the ancient ruins are and was about to tether the ropes back into place. Suddenly, she thought she heard a voice calling out to her.

“Rainbow Dash…” The voice spoke.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked in confusion, looking around. “Who’s there?”

Again, the voice called out.” Rainbow Dash!”

I know you’re out there!” shouted Rainbow, sounding tough.”Show yourself!”

Suddenly, from the darkness emerged a trio of pegasi clad in navy blue flight suits. Their eyes were obscured by flight goggles, but, the one in the middle had vivid orange mane and tail with amber stripes. Another had a dark grayish-blue mane and tail and appeared to be a stallion. And the third had a light brilliant and very pale arctic mane and tail. The mare with the vivid orange colored mane and tail spoke up, using the same voice that had been calling out from the darkness earlier. “We’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria.”

“Who’s that?” asked Rainbow, suspecting nothing.

The mare in the middle gave an ominous smile as she declared. “Why, you, of course. We’ve been expecting you.”

“Me?” said Rainbow, caught off-guard. She suddenly regained her composure. “I mean, of course, me. Hey, you wouldn’t mind telling the Wonderbolts you said that, would you? I’ve been wanting to join them for, like, ever!”

“Oh, but, we ARE the Wonderbolts.” The mare with a vivid orange mane and tail responded. “Your skills have impressed us. We want you to join us and be our new captain. Together, we’ll be the greatest flying military team in all of Equestria! Maybe even the world!”

“Wow~” gasped Rainbow Dash, stars seemed to form in her eyes.

The mare in the middle nodded. “Yes indeed. Are you interested?”

Rainbow was all too eager to accept. “You bet I am!” But, then she remembered why she’d flown across the gap and had come into the Everfree Forest to begin with. “Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal.”

“No!” snapped the mare in the middle. “It’s them or us.”

Meanwhile, Twilight and the others had begun to grow impatient. And so, she chose that very moment to call out. “Hey, Rainbow! What’s the hold-up?! What’s taking so long?!” By chance, she along with Flash (Do to his great scenes) happened to glance across the bridge. And when she did so there eyes fell upon the Wonderbolts, but, something about them didn’t seem right. “Oh no!” Twilight gaped, a little louder than she had intended to. She turned to Flash. “You need get over there, Flash!”
Flash didn’t move, “You need to help her!”

“Trust her, Twilight.” he replied hopefully. Not daring to look away. “Come on Rainbow…”

The mare in the middle gazed at Twilight and Flashes group and she had a fiercely determined look. Her angry goggled eyes glowed and more fog surrounded the trench.

“Rainbow, don’t listen to them!” Twilight cried as the fog muffled her.

“Well?” asked the mare in the middle with a cold smirk.

Rainbow, having witnessed the flashing eyes, knew immediately that something was up. “I don’t know who you are but, you’re not the Wonderbolts! The Wonderbolts would never turn their back on ponies in need! Plus, they can’t make their eyes flash to move clouds. So, thanks, but, no thanks! I’m not going betray my friends just because you want me to!” She proceeded to tie the bridge and motioned for Spike and six other ponies to hurry across. As she did so, the clouds and fog slowly lifted and the Wonderbolts disappeared in a cloud of dark blue smoke.

“That was awesome, Rainbow Dash!” Spike said. “Thanks for the assist. Are you okay?”

“Why wouldn’t I be? Rainbow honestly asked.

“You just turned down the Wonderbolts.” Twilight said.

Those were fakes.” Rainbow said.” I saw Spitfire’s eyes flash and fog moved. Fog, dust, steam, smoke, and mist are the only types of clouds pegasi CAN’T touch. Even if we COULD, we can’t move them by making our eyes flash.

“Ah, that makes sense.” Spike said.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t tempted at first,” Rainbow admitted.” But, even if those fakes DIDN’T use that trick, I wouldn’t leave you all hanging. You’re stuck with me.”

Twilight could help but smile at Rainbows remark. And the group made their way to the castle.

“By the way, what happened back there-“ Flash said as he pointed at her, “is definitely Wonderbolt material.”

“You talk like you know them.” but the look on his face told her otherwise. “You do know them.”

“My mentor, Golden Glow, and my mom pulled some strings and I got to take a specialised Evasive Flying course.” Flash explained.” Me and Soarin became good pals. We still hang out whenever he’s in Canterlot.”

“That…is…AWESOME!” Rainbow cried. “You’ve gotta introduce me!”

“I could mention you next time me and Soarin see each other.” Flash’ said, Rainbows face lit up as he said this.

They went to catch up with the others. In the forest region, Nightmare Moon shot a beam a tree.”Aghhh! Nothing I try on these ponies is working! I need to think of something fast before-“ Suddenly, a beeping sound could be heard from her horn, it then made a hollow gram of Zarozard.

“Nightmare, what is the status outside?” Zarozard asked, Nightmare Moon began to sweat.

“Well… it-I… you see…it’s” She stuttered, not knowing what to say. Zarozard followed her eye sight and turned around to see the ponies almost at the castle

”What is the meaning of this?! I thought you would keep anyone from getting here!” Nightmare Moon tried to think of an excuse, one to not anger Zarozard, but, to also not humiliate herself in front of him.

“Well… I tried to crush them, scare them, use a Manticore to attack them, blocked them, and tried to turn them against each other.” She hoped he would understand but he just pinched the spot between his eyes.

“Why didn’t you just straight up kill them yourself?! You know you’re stronger than all of them, so why didn’t you do just that?!” Zarozard asked.

Realizing that he had a good point, Nightmare Moons face became red with a blush. “I… I didn’t think about that until now.” She smiled nervously.

Zarozard sighed and pulled up a hollow graphic computer. “No matter, I will take care of this now. You head back to my lab.” With that the hollow gram of Zarozard disappeared. “Now, do you see? He’s just using us. Please…stop… this has gone to far,” The voice begged. Nightmare Moon ignored her, turned back into a cloud, and headed back to the lab.

It had been two minutes scene the bridge incident, the ponies and dragon were almost at the castle. Flash told Rainbow about all of his and Soarins adventures. Needless to say, she was in a very good mood. Flash saw a bit of red on her cheeks but decided to say nothing.

“Wow, hearing about a Wonderbolt by someone who has met them is even better than hearing them.” Rainbow admitted.

“Yeah, he sure is.” Flash added. “We never lost contact after that and we even sometimes try and explore the palace. Plus we—“ Flash suddenly stopped and turned his direction back to the castle. He suddenly ran up front and got into battle stance. “We’re not alone. Something coming.”

“What?” Twilight asked. She had thought they were in the clear. That nothing else was going to attack them.

“I don’t see anything.” Applejack said, trying to up ahead.

“Oh! Maybe this one will be a riddle! I love riddles!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed happily.

“I have a feeling that’s not it.” Spike said.

Soon, they all heard weird noises a looked ahead to see 2, tiny, creatures were floating around near the castle. They looked to be made of 5 orbs that went from biggest to smallest and were a color of purple and blue.

”Aw!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Look at those things they’re so small and adorable!” Rarity used her Mystic eyes to get a closer look at the creatures. Suddenly they stopped and began to fly towards them. The group noticed something was off, the creatures seem to be getting bigger the closer they got.

“Wait, are they little?” Twilight asked, as they looked on the creatures made it to them. And they were huge! The largest front orb (they thought was the head) was as big as there bodies. The 2 creatures began to glow as electricity formed around them. The ponies and dragon had one thought in that moment. “Uh oh”

The creatures shot lightning at the group, who barely managed to dodge it. Rainbow and Applejack readied themselves for a counter. They gave each other a nod and ran towards one of the flying orb creatures. Rainbow tried to kick the beast, when it split apart all of a sudden. Rainbow face planted into a tree. Applejack tried to kick one of the orbs, but it shot lightning at her and sent her flying. The other mares tried to help but got quickly dominated by the creatures.

The creatures were about to fire at the mares, when the both got hit by a golden beam. It was Flash, who got Spike to a safe distance. “So, you guys want a fight?” Flash cracks his neck. “Well, you got one!” The creatures shot forward like frat trains, Flash managed to dodge and hit them both in the front. The creatures slammed into the ground, while Flash backflipped and landed on his feet. The creatures turned red on all the orbs and came apart, the orbs flew like cannon balls and raced towards the alicorn. Flash ducked, dodged, and flew past all the orbs thrown at him. But before he could land, a orb managed to hit him in the back of the head. Flash fell to the floor with a smack. The creatures reattached each other and charged up.

“Flash!” Twilight screamed, worried Flash might not hold out for long. “We have to help him, now!” Twilight rushed towards the creatures but was stopped by a forcefield.

Flash’s horn was glowing and he slowly got up smirking. “It’s ok, Twilight, I got this.” He turned around and smiled at her. “A knight never flies from a foe, right Rainbow?” He glanced at Rainbow, who just looked at him in worry. Flash got back into a fighting stance and lit his horn so bright, the others had to look way. When the creatures looked they too were blinded by the light. The next thing they knew, Flash fired a large beam and disintegrated both the creatures. As the light died done the ponies saw that the creatures were replaced by ash. Flash took deep breaths and released the forcefield.

The mares and dragon ran up to Flash, amazed at what they saw. “Aw, yeah! Those things just got barbecued! That was awesome!” Rainbow said in excitement.

Twilight however looked all over him to make sure there wasn’t any injuries. “Are you ok?! Is anything broken?!” Twilight frantically asked, while the other mares giggled at the sight. Spike to was worried.

“It’s ok, Twi. I’m fine. I promise.” Flash said to her calmly. They both released they were holding hooves and quickly pulled apart, while blushing.

Spike came up to Flash and hugged him. “Thank you so much , Flash” he said, while Flash hugged back. They ponies and dragon continued their walk to the castle.

Origins

Once upon a time, in the magical lands of Equestria there was a family of four alicorns and among them there were two sisters who ruled together with their parents and created harmony for all the land. This is the land of unicorns, Pegasus, earth ponies, and alicorns. To do this the eldest her used unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn while the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintain balance their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies. But there was an ancient evil that wanted to rule Equestria for himself. An evil creature named, Zarozard. Zarozard tried to take over Equestria but the sisters stopped at every turn. But as time went on, the younger sister become resentful. The Ponies would relish and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One faithful day Zarozard saw this as the perfect opportunity and convinced the younger alicorn to join his side where the alicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her but the bitterness in the young ones heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon. Together, she and Zarozard vowed they would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently on the moon and Zarozard was killed when there castle collapsed. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon and harmony has been maintained in equestria for generations scene.

This story was being read by a young mare named twilight sparkle. She was a young unicorn with a light purple coat, a dark blue and moderate purple mane and tail that was in a pig tail and were bushy and sported a pink and yellow skunk-like stripe in the middle. Her eyes were a darker pinkish color just like her pink stripe and her cutie mark was a pink colored seven star. Surrounding that said star was a series of six small stars colored silver and all seven were increased in a silver crescent moon. Her horn and hooves were white and she wore a red heart shaped locket.

“Hmm… Elements of harmony,” she pondered. Those three simple words
began stirring up vague memories for her.” I know I’ve heard of those before… but where?”

Twilight was a bookish mare who often read in her spare time. She’d read all manner of things from mythology to history, science ti math, English to astrology, and even the odd Breezies tale (The Equestria version of fairy tales) from time to time. As one can very well imagine, such a wealth of literacy subjects molded twilight into a complete genius.she goes to the high school of Canterlot.

Her curiosity shifting into overdrive, Twilight decided to head to her room. Her hooves pounded the ground as her mind whirred.

“ I know I’ve heard of the elements of harmony,” she mused herself. Suddenly, she saw a trio of alicorns. A white one with a pink mane and tail, a yellow one with a blue mane and tail, and a blue one with a white and blue mane and tail.

“There you are Twilight. We’ve been looking all over for you,” said the white one. They were Twilights classmates.

“ Moon dancers having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come? You can bring Flash and Spike along. At that last sentence, Twilight became hesitant and began looking for an excuse. A quick look at her saddlebag gave her a convenient one to use.

“Oh, sorry, girls,” sighed Twilight. “I’ve got lots of studying to check up on. I’ll need spike and flash help on it.” With an awkward smile, Twilight rushed past the three alicorns.

“Doesn’t that pony do anything except studying?” Said the blue one.

“I think she’s more interested in books than friends, Minuette,” replied the yellow one.

“It’s been so long since we’ve seen Spike.I miss seeing him,” added the white one.

“Yeah and Flash to…That guy is hot.” Replied the yellow one.

Meanwhile, Twilight ran into a larger unicorn stallion with a white coat and a blue mane and tail. This was Twilight’s older brother, Shining armor. “Woah, twily! Where’s the fire?” He joked. He was joined by his girlfriend Cadence. Twilight’s old foalsitter. She was a pink alicorn with a big yellow stripe in her mane and tail.

“Hi,bbbff , hi Cadence” Twilight hugged them tightly. Shining armor returned the hug.

“Moon dancer is having a get-together in the west castle courtyard. You coming?” the alicorn asked.

Twilight felt a bit upset. “ I want to, but, I’m worried about bringing Spike with me,” she said.”what if someone judges me for having adopted him? What if he gets judged himself? I just don’t know if he can take that kind of rejection.

“Twilight, you know that Moondancer wouldn’t invite invite ponies like that. And if she DOSE they’ll have to deal with me,” declared the older stallion as he cracked he’s hooves.

Twilight chuckled. “Know one messes with the captain of the royal gaurd.” She sighed” All the same, I still feel scared.”

“Twilight,” said Cadence sternly. “ How long have you been raising Spike?”

“Uh, about 10 years or so,” Twilight calculated.

“ And do you still love him like family after all this time?” Shining questioned.

“Of course I do,” said Twilight. “I was tasked by Princess Celestia. I admit, I did it out of obligation at first, but, After all this time I’ve become attached to him.”

“ Then, that’s what’s important, twilight,” Cadence asserted. “Yeah, It doesn’t matter what others think. Don’t let them stop you from loving him like family.” Said Shining armor.

Twilight smiled at her brother and foalsitter’s advice. “Thank you, guys, I’ll go see Spike.” She left and Cadence looked at Shining and whispered, “ Now we can continue our date.” As she kissed him on the cheek, and they went their way.

Twilight went through Canterlot training grounds as she went to get her best friend, Flash sentry.

As she got there, she saw to ponies in the middle who stood opposite of each other. One was an alicorn while the other was an earth pony.They were fitted in heavily padded gear around there bodies, with large shining helmets on their heads and each carried a wooden sword in their mouths. They were waiting for the signal.

Finally, the horn blow and they shot at each other like bullets. There swords colliding in a clash, as the pushed each other it resulted in a standstill. Several seconds later, the alicorn used his wings to make wind and shot at the earth pony, making him lose his balance and falter backwards. With the opportunity, the Pegasus shot forward, and with one swipe of his sword, and struck his opponent down. The opponent’s sword went flying away from the blow, as the earth pony found himself on his back, and with the Pegasus’s sword near his neck.

“Well… I taught you to well.” Chuckled the earth pony, as the sword was removed from his neck. The two then took off their helmets, revealing themselves as Flash and his mentor, Golden Glow. Golden glow was a large stallion with silver and golden color all over his body, his cutie mark is a black Shield with a white shield inside it.

Flash was an orange/goldfish coat and a blue tail and mane, his horn was a light blue horn, hooves, and under belly. His cutie mark was a dark goldish and light blue shield with lightning bolts around it. Basically, Flash has mastered every weapon in the castle armory, and also some weapon less fighting styles. Even Celestia was impressed by him.

“ I think you finally surpassed me kid.” said Golden Glow. As they put their gear away. Twilight was also impressed and walked down to meet her friend. They hugged and greeted each other.” That really was some sword play Flash.” said Twilight, making Flash blush a little from the comment. “ Oh, don’t say that!” he said as they talked.

Twilight and Flash had been friends for years. Twilight was the only other thing that Flash would spend his time on. If he wasn’t training or patrolling, he would spend his time with her. He usually found himself helping her with her studies or just hanging out or having fun. They spent so much time together that ponies in Canterlot often mistook them as a couple.

“So…” Golden glow said as they left the training ground. “You two going to your friends party?”

Before Flash could say Twilight beat him to it, “ Unfortunately, I need Flash for something important right now. So I’m afraid we’ll have to miss it.” Said Twilight. This gave a questionable look as Golden signed. “It’s too bad. I would have liked to see Spike again. “ This made Twilights heartache again. She quickly thought of something to change the subject.

“Well, maybe during the summer sun celebration I can take him to some of the parties.” Flash said before Twilight could.

“That’s good! Tell him I said “Hi”, ok.” Said as he left the two, going into the castle.

“We will!” Flash shouted. “So… what is it you want to show me?” He asked Twilight as they walked back to her tower.

“I’m not sure yet, but please come with me!” As she said this they ran to a large tower. As twilight had got older, Princess Celestia increased her study load. It went to the point that she even allowed Twilight her own high tower. The place was off limits to all except a select few so Twilight can focus on her studies in peace. It was far away from the training ground so as to not cause distracting noise and high enough that no one without actual cause would go up there. Twilight would often fall asleep in her loft, too tired from studies to go home. There were times that Flash would have to drag her out between books just so she could get some sun and see her family.

Author's Note

Hello 👋

Booktales

Twilight fling the doors open, sending books flying. “Oh dear…”

“You were studying all night again, huh?” Sighed Spike, who turned out to be a small dragon that came up to roughly the same height as Twilight. Said dragon was had a mulberry pinkish-purple coat, a light green underbelly, lime green ear fronds, green scales, and matching green eyes. At that moment he held a red present with a golden ribbon.

Twilight noticed the present and questioned it.

“Whats that for?” Said Twilight.

“A little something I got for Moondancer,” explained Spike.” She’s having a get-together—“

“In the castle courtyard, I know. I heard it there times today on the way here,” the disgruntled twilight interrupted. “ You know we don’t have time for such things.”

“But we’re on break!” Spike pleaded. “You promised princess Celestia that you’d take it easy until the summer Sun celebration. We never see Twinkleshine, Lemon Hearts, Minuette, or Moon Dancer anymore.”

Twilight felt a tinge of heartache she couldn’t explain from Spikes pleading. “ Maybe after this whole thing Twilight whats, we’ll take you with use to the next get-together. I promise” Said Flash patting the drake on the back.

Spike sighed sadly, “ That’s what Twilight said last time.” He sadly complained under his breath. He then speaks aloud, “So, what do you need our help for this time, Twi?”

“I need to find a book on predictions and prophecies.” Twilight looked through the various book piled all over the floor while Spike and Flash checked the bookshelves. Spike climbed a ladder to a higher shelf.

“No, no, no, no, no! Twilight sighed as she looked throw books. “Any luck up there?”

“Nothing over here”, said Flash as he head back down.

Spike pulled out the very book she asked for. “Right here!” Suddenly Spike lost his balance and the ladder tilted backwards. Flash jumped and caught Spike and the book. Gently landing twilight thanks them and try’s to find what she’s looking for.

“Let’s see. Elements… Elements… e, e, e… aha! Elements of Harmony.” She then read. “See, (Mare in the moon)”?”

“Mare in the moon?” Asked Spike in surprise. “But that’s just an old Breezies tale.” Flash said. The boys new twilight wouldn’t usually doesn’t look up something like that, especially with no proof they existed.

“Mare… mare… mare, ah ha!” She cried. “ The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, was defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will bring aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal.” Twilight gasped aloud. “Guys, do you know what this means?!”

“You’re reading too much into something that might not be true?” The dragon quipped. Making Flash snicker, which made Twilight scowl.

“No! It means that Nightmare moon will return the day after tomorrow!” Cried Twilight. “ This year is the 1000th Summer Sun Celebration.”

Spike was beginning to lose patience. “ You told me myths were stories that ponies made up to explain how things worked before science came around,” he said. “You literally just read the word ‘myth’ in the description!” While gesturing his arms to emphasize his point, Spike fell off the ladder he was using to put books away. Thinking quickly, Twilight positioned herself under Spike so he landed on her.

“Just a little tip, I recommend NOT waving your arms around while you’re on top of a tall ladder again,” Twilight
reprimanded. “I don’t want you to get hurt.”

Spike nodded, “Noted.”

“ I have to agree with Spike, Twilight. I think you’re reading too much into this.” Flash said.

Twilight took a deep breath as Spike got off her back. “I heard about the Elements of Harmony in a story. That story mentioned a pony that raises the sun. And what does Princess Celestia do?”

“Raises the… sun… “ Flash and Spike finally released it. “Okay. Maybe this old breezies tale-slash-myth may have merit.” Flash said, as he scratched the back of his head.

“And it’s a well-known fact that Princess Celestia is over 1000 years old,” Twilight added. “The story I read mentioned that Nightmare Moon was the younger sister of the pony who raises the sun and the one responsible for raising the moon before hoof.

Spike grew curious. “But, Princess Celestia doesn’t have a sister. I’m pretty share we’d remember if she told us.” He responded.

“I still think we should investigate in this further,” said Twilight.

“Come on twilight. Do you really think somepony locked in the moon is going to cause trouble at the celebration?” Said Flash, trying to reason with his best friend.

“But we should be preparing to fight face to face her, not working on setting up some silly party.” Said Twilight.

“ I remember you used to love going to that silly party. It’s celebrating Princess Celestia after all.” Flash replied as he rubbed his shoulder.

“ Things change Flash. I have a duty to protect Equestria from any threat and I can’t stop Nightmare moon without the Elements of Harmony.”

“And I am sure Princess Celestia is working on locating them.” Said Flash.

Before she could say anymore, her phone went off as it had just gotten a text from nun other than Celestia herself.
“Oh, I didn’t text anything to Princess Celestia today,” she shrugged and levitated her phone to look at it. “My dearest, most faithful student Twilight. I am sending you to supervise the preparation for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year’s location: Ponyville.”

“Ponyville? Isn’t it that town founded by earth ponies?” Spike asked.

“I believe so,” said Twilight. “Unusual request, but as protege of Princess Celestia, I will have to fulfill my royal duty.”

“I think there’s more to read.” Flash pointed out.

“Oh?” Sure enough, there was more of the text that she somehow missed. She then began to read the last parts.” My dearest Twilight, there is more to a young ponies life than studying, so I’m sending you to supervise the Summer Sun Celebration this years location: Ponyville. And, I have an even mor essential task for to complete: make some friends!” At that last part, Twilight groaned in annoyance.

“I can’t be waisting time with this I need to find a way to defeat Nightmare moon.” Twilight said annoyingly.

“And I’m sure the Celestia and her family are working on locating the elements. You know she wouldn’t ignore something like this if it’s serious.” Flash said with a glare. Knowing Twilight being… well Twilight.

“Then why is she sending me to Ponyville instead of continuing my studies!?” Angrily said Twilight.

“I don’t know. Maybe with her and the king and queen dealing with Nightmare moon, they need someone to keep up appearances. Did you ever think of that?” said Flash. Twilight didn’t respond. She just stood there, thinking about what Flash said.

“I know you’re worried.” Flash said as he put a hoof around his friend. “But what if you’re wrong? You can’t start panicking like that with nothing to go on but fairy tales.”

“I guess you’re right.” Twilight replied, her ears dropping down.

“Tell you what, why don’t I come with to and help out?” Flash asked.

Twilights frown changed to a smile at this, “ Of course! That way I can finish faster and I can continue my research on the Elements of Harmony!”

“ Yeah, let’s go with that.” Flash said as he facehoofed.

“ And it’s not like you need me there anyway,” Spike said sadly. “For the last few years, I’ve had to stay in the tower all day and at home.” Once again, Twilight felt a twinge of pain in her heart. It had just occurred to her that she’d been keeping Spike indoors for that long and made her feel really guilty. “Okay Spike,” said Twilight. “You can come with us.”

“Really?!” Spike asked in excitement. This caused the dragons tail to wag like a dogs.

“Yeah buddy! Of Course.” Flash said as he rubbed Spikes head. “But first we might need to get some stuff at home.” Twilight agreed and they went home to get their things. They found Twilights parents in the kitchen. Night light and Twilight Velvet, night light was a blue unicorn with a darker blue mane, while velvet had s white coat and a purple and white striped mane.” Hey kids.” Night light greeted as they walked in. “Care for a cup of tea?”

“Sorry dad. I can’t, the princess has ordered me to go to Ponyville to oversee the preparations and I have to get all things packed right now!” Twilight panicked as she rushed upstairs to her room.

“And we agreed to help.” Flash continued as he and Spike walked up to night light. “ I’ll take a cup.”

“Me, too” Spike said as he licked his lips.

“Well I hope you three have fun.” Velvet said as she gave the boys their cups. “It’ll be good for twilight to get out again. Poor girl keeps herself cooped up way to much.”

“That being said, do you two know why she’s panicking so much?” Night light asked as he sipped his tea.

“She’s just being Twilight as always.” Flash said as the boys took a drink, “ Don’t worry, we’ll keep an eye on her as usual.”

The two smiled at him. “ We can always count on you and Spike.

“Leave it to us.” Spike said as he took another sip. “Good stuff, this tea that is.

“I know right?” Said Night light.

Twilight returned and they all said there goodbyes

Author's Note

Sorry it took awhile 😅 I’ll tell the story of how flash and twilight meet. But that is another story.

Ponyville

In the town of Ponyville the ponies were enjoying their day. The kids were on TikTok, the decorations for the Summer Sun Celebration are up on the street lamps, and ponies were being prepared. That is until two large stallions were plowing throw ponies. One was a larger brown and an orange mane and tail, while the other was tall, purple and his mane and tail were purple. They were chasing what looks like a little dog like creature. It’ was black, blue and yellow in color and was quite fast for its size. It was carrying what looked like a position of some sort. The dog ran down an ally and was cornered, as the two stallions slowly walked towards it.

“Now, Now, little one. We’re not gonna hurt you… we just need… that… POTION!“ The large one said as they leaped to the dog. But it just straight up teleported and it was now behind them. They got up and continued to chase it.

Meanwhile, Twilight, Spike, and Flash arrived at Ponyville. The trio got a good look at the town and it wasn’t half bad. The town was far more modest than Canterlot and it seemed more peaceful, too. Flash thought that maybe Golden glow would like to retire here.

“Thank you, sirs.” said Twilight politely as they disembarked. As the guards flew away, Twilight got her list out and started to Trot to her first stop on the list. Spike saw a fluffy earth pony mare with a darker pink mane and tail and blue eyes trotting towards them. She also had a large yellow bow in her hair and had three balloons as a cutie mark. She also had light blue hooves and blue strikes in her hair.

“Hi there,” Spike greeted. “My name is—“

At that moment, the pink pony gasped, floating in the air as she suddenly shot off to who knows where before Spike could finish.

Spike felt indignant. “It’s because I’m a dragon, isn’t it?!” Spike said angrily as flash tried to comfort him.

“Don’t worry, I’m sure there a lots of other ponies here that would like you.” Said Flash, which seemed to cheer Spike up a little.

Twilight sighed. “ Yeah, hopefully there are. Come on let’s get started on the list.”

“By the way… Why didn’t we just take a plain or train here? I mean, it’s the 20 second century after all?” Flash said.

Later, Spike told them that the food will be catered by a place named Sweet Apple Acres.

“Well, not many farms in Canterlot,” Spike remarked.

“Yeah not a bad place.” Flash agreed. “So, who do we talk to?”

“Yea-ha!” said a load female voice with a country accent, catching the trio’s attention. They look over to see an orange, freckled Earth Pony with blonde mane and tail and green stripes. She was wearing a red Stetson hat and and bandana. She had three apples as a cutie mark. She also had a bit of green in her mane her coat and light green hooves. The Earth Pony kicked a tree and all the apples came off. Flash cocked an eyebrow as he found himself impressed with the mare’s strength, while Spike was amazed by such a feat.

“That was amazing!” Spike blurted out, catching the farm mares attention.

“ Why thank you! Just takes some practice.” Chuckled the farmer. While Spike was just shocked and confused.

“Aren’t you gonna panic?” He asked.

“Y’all aren’t hurten my family or destroying anything, so, there isn’t a reason to.” Blinked the orange pony.

“Huh? Weird. Usually, the first time ponies see me, their first instinct is to run, screaming, ‘Ah! Run! Hide! It’s a dragon!” , Spike admitted.

“I…I see…” trailed the orange pony. “Ah’m sorry ya get treated like that.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re being nice to Spike,” said Twilight. “Oh, where are my manners? My name is, Twilight Sparkle—“

Before she could finish, the earth pony grabbed her hoof and shacked it rapidly, “ Well howdy do, Twilight! I’m Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres love maken’ new friends.”

“Friends?! Actually, I’m here for…” Twilight said shakily. Applejack had one heck of a grip. “You have a very strong grip…”

This caused Applejack to let go in embarrassment. “Heh…sorry, sugercube.” She blushed.” I can get a bit excited.”

“You don’t say…” Twilight said, hoof still shaking until Spike grabbed it. Thanks, Spike.” She said as Flash

“Greetings. My name is Flash Sentry.” He said with a slight bowing gesture. “ Me, Spike, and Twilight are here to check on the food preparations. You must be e charge of it?”

“We share as sugar are,” grinned Applejack. “ Would you care to sample some?”

Twilight did fell a bit peckish from the journey. “Well, I guess we could try something. As long as it doesn’t take too long. Out of curiosity, do you make any apple-flavored rock candy?”

Applejack raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, why?

Flash explained, “ Spike likes to eats gems, but, Twilight raised him to eat rock candy as an acceptable substitute.”

Applejack shrugged. “Fair enough,” she took out a triangle and started ringing it. “Soups on, everypony!

From seemingly out of nowhere, hundreds of earth ponies appeared in a dust cloud surrounding them.

“What the- what is this?!” Cried Twilight, Over whelmed by the sheer number of ponies.

“The Apple Family Reunion,” Chuckled Applejack. “Now, let me introduce y’all to everypony.”

And with that she began to listing off names. As she listed every name related to an apple, a new pony would quickly come to the table and drop off a plate of whatever their name was portrayed. Eventually, a small mountain of food toward over them, threatening to topple over the trio. They began to dig in with Flash mainly digging into the desert.

“I’m sensing a theme here,” Spike quipped. This triggered some hearty laughs from the Apple Family.

“Y’all got scenes of humor,” chucked Applejack. “That’ll go well in this here town. Pinkie‘ll be pleased as a junebug in the month of May ta meet ya.”

Spike tilted his head. “Who’s Pinkie?”

Applejack playfully noogied him. “ Don’t you fret not, sugercube. You’ll find out soon enough. Y’all staying here, right?”

Flash answered throw his stuffed mouth.”Only for the celebration, after that well head home. These are so good!”

“Why thank y’all.” Said Applejack.

“Yeah we’re going to check on some things here and head back tomorrow.” Spike then continued, rather sadly, “ Then, I guess its back to being stuck in Twilights—“

Before he finished Twilight spat out the food she was eating and quickly put her hoof on his mouth and laughed nervously. “Studies! Yeah, stuck in my studies! He’s a very curious dragon! If you’ll excuse me…” she slinked off with Spike to the barn leaving Flash outside with the family. Inside, Twilight put Spike down and speaking throw greeted teeth, “ What in Tartarus are you doing Spike?!”

Spike, taken it back by this, honestly says, “Uh, telling them I’ll go back to being stuck in room all day when this is over.”

“You can’t just go around saying stuff like that in public!” Twilight said in frustration.

“Why not?” queried the young drake. Twilight leaned close to his ear frond and whispered the explanation, causing the dragon to make shocked faces. “Ooooh… tsk… yeah… I’ll just not bring that up in public anymore.”

“Very good, Spike,” said Twilight. They went back to the Apple Family. “Sorry about that.”

“ Aren’t ya gonna stay for brunch?” asked Apple Bloom, the youngest member of the Apple Family that was present. She was bright yellow with a red mane and tail with orange eyes. She was giving a face so cute it should be illegal. Seeing Twilight cringe at this, Flash decided to speak up.

“ I’m sorry.” Flash said, kneeling down to her eye level, “ But when you have important duties like us, sometimes you have to put fun things like this on the back banner for a while.” Everypony around them moaned sadly at this.

Twilight, unable to resist the guilt said, “Ok, we’ll stay.”

After sampling the Apple Family foods, Spike, Twilight, and Flash headed out to check on other preparations. “Ugh…” groaned a rather stuffed Twilight. “I ate too much pie…” Flash on the other hand didn’t look stuffed at all.

“Speak for yourself.” Flash said as he rubbed his stomach. “I’ve really needed that. I haven’t eaten in forever.”

“ That’s because you train all the time, mister muscles.” Twilight shot back.

“That’s because it’s my job Twi. It’s literally my special talent.” Flash said in a deadpan expression. Causing Twilight to release he was right.

“Foods is done… now the weather.” Spike said as he checked the list. “ Hmm… there’s supposed to be a pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds.”

The two ponies looked up, only to see the sky full of clouds. “ Well, she’s not doing a very good job is she? If she were here, I’d give her a piece of my mind.” Said Twilight.

Flash would have said something, but his heightened scenes picked up on something heading their way. Before they got a chance to react, they were tackled into a mud puddle.

The perpetrator revealed itself to be a fluffy, pegasus mare with the same color coat as the sky above. She had ruby eyes and a somewhat messy mane and tail in color of red, yellow, and blue along with her wings. Her hooves were red and she wore googles and sweatbands. She had a storm cloud for a cutie mark.

“Heh…” she said sheepishly.” Scuse me.” Twilight and Flash were quiet annoyed from her attack.

Spike was the first to talk. ”That was quite fast.You must be a pro racer.”

“Well, I do like to race,” grinned the blue pony. “I got my cutie mark the day I discovered my love for it.”

Once again, Spike found himself surprised. “You’re not scared that I’m a dragon?”

The blue pony laughed. “Psst! You seem pretty harmless. Besides, if a dragon did come, I could totally take it on.”

“You’re the…” Spike counted with his fingers. “…16th who didn’t pack at the sight of me today.”

“Let me guess, went to the Apple Family reunion?” The blue pony chuckled. “ Yeah Applejacks family is quit famous in Ponyville. Most of them don’t even live here.”

Spike nodded. “Yeah, we did.”

The pony saw Twilight and Flash still in the mud. “Oh, sorry, let me help you,” she pushed over a rain cloud and bounced on it several times. This caused it to rain on the duo in a manner more akin to dumping a bucket of water on top of them.

“Oh, great…” groaned Twilight. “Now we’re drenched!”

Ooh… Guess I overdid it,” said the pegasus. “Never mind, I can fix that.” She started flying around them very fast. “My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry!”

The pegasus surrounded Twilight and Flash in a swirl of rainbow colored light, so as to blow off every drop of water on there bodies.

“No no, don’t thank me. You’re quite welcome,” The pony grinned. However, upon inspection, she saw that Twilights mane and tail had been all pooped up (making the unicorn look ridiculous). Flash’s mane and tail however we’re to short to be all poofy so he just fixed it.

The blue pegasus grinned before rolling on the floor laughing and Spike couldn’t help but laugh to, while Flash just snickered.

“Let me guess, you’re Rainbow dash?” Twilight bitterly asked the pegasus.

The blue pegasus smirked as she bragged, “The one and only. Why? You heard of me?”

“We heard you’re in charge of the weather detail for the Summer Sun Celebration,” Spike explained. He was holding on to rainbow to stay upright but just remembered his position. “Uh, could you maybe lower yourself a bit so I can get down?”

“Oh, sure. Sorry, little guy,” Rainbow apologized as she knelt down. “What’d you say your name was?”

“Spike,” said the dragon.

And I’m Twilight Sparkle and this is Flash Sentry,” added the unicorn. “The Princess sent us here to keep an eye on the weather, which you are doing a very subpar job with.”

“Yeah yeah, I’ll get it done in a moment,” Rainbow Dash said as she quickly laid down on a cloud, “ I’ll do it after I’m done practicing.”

“Practicing?” Flash asked, “for what?”

“Slacking off when you have a job to do?” Twilight sarcastically asked getting a glare from Flash.

“No!” Snapped Rainbow Dash. “I’m practicing my routine for the Wonderbolts.” She said in an ecstatic tone, “ They’ll be preforming tomorrow and I’m going to show my stuff!”

“The Wonderbolts?” Twilight replied, wondered if she heard right. “The most talented flyers in all of Equestria and Pegasus Military group?”

“Yep,” confirmed the pegasus.”

“Please.” Twilight said with a raised hoof. “They’d never recruit a Pegasus Pony who can’t even keep the sky clear for one measly day.”

“ I have to agree with her on this one, you’re making your species look bad.” Flash said, trying to get the pegasus to work. But, Rainbow Dash just growled, felling challenged.

“I bet I could fly faster than your boyfriend ever could.” her growls become louder.

“He’s not my boyfriend.” Twilight hissed back as she pointed at him, “ he’s an apprentice knight to the great Golden Glow. I bet he could fly circles around you.”

“Please don’t bring me into this.” Flash said with a raised hoof, as he knew he wasn’t in a bragging mood.

“Too late pretty boy.” Rainbow Dash replied with a challenging grin. “You and me right now!” she said as she pointed to the clouds. “I take one half and you take the other. First one to clear their section wins.”

“We really don’t have time for this.” Flash groaned with a face palm.

“Oh, come on!” Rainbow yelled. “What’s that old saying? A knight never flees from a foe?” Flash sighed and turned to Twilight, giving her a ‘are you serious?’ look.

“Just humor her.” she told him as she pointed to the list.”If it will get her off her flank and make do her job, then we can move on. Deal?”

Flash sighed and nodded. Rainbow Dash pulled out a stopwatch out of seemingly nowhere and holding it to Spike.“ Ever use a stopwatch before kid?”

“Yes, actually,” Spike admitted. “Whenever Twilight asks me to time her book organizing sessions.”

“Then, you won’t have a problem using this, will you.” said Rainbow.

Spike nodded. “Whenever you want me to.”

Rainbow Dash and Flash stood back to back looking up at the many clouds they had to bust. Spike stood between them and raised his claw up. “Go!”

As soon as Spike hit, The flyers zoomed off all over the sky. In seconds, Flash managed to get twelve…. While Rainbow had already cleared the sky.

“And the result?” said a rather cocky Rainbow Dash.

Spike checked the stopwatch. “It says 10.46 seconds.”

“What?!” Rainbow checked the stopwatch and sure enough, it readout what Spike said. “Nuts! I’m seriously coming up short!”

Twilight and Flash were bewildered. “That was coming up short?!”

“Yeah,” said Rainbow Dash. “ I was the fastest in Summer Flight Camp and Junior Speedsters.”

“10.46 seconds is still pretty fast,” said Spike, trying to be supportive.

“Well, I guess so,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Okay,” Flash said, landing in a huff. He could still feel his body sting as he tried to keep up, “ Maybe we underestimated you. Then again, I’m a soldier, not a weather pony.”

“It’s ok, say? We should all hang out some time.” “Plus, whenever you’re ready for a rematch, Flash Sentry, give me a call.” she said as she flew off into a blue blur.

Twilight shook off the surprise and they went headed off again. “What’s next, Spike? she asked.

Spike checked the list. “Decorations. They’re being overseen by a unicorn named Rarity.”

Twilight, Flash, and Spike headed for the hall where the ceremony was going to be held. In the hall was a curvy white unicorn with a black under belly, horn, and hooves. Her mane and tail were purple with a blue stripe in it. She had ear piercings and gold necklace. She also had two diamonds for a cutie mark. Spike saw her and thought she was the most beautiful thing ever. But, he quickly pushed such thoughts away remembering how quit a few unicorns gave him the cold shoulder.

“No… no… no… oh, goodness no…” said the unicorn, going through ribbons of various colors.

“Excuse me,” called Twilight.

“Just a moment, darling,” called the white unicorn. “I’m in the zone, as it were.” she manages to come across a ribbon she’s happy with. “Oh, yes. Sparkle always does the trick, doesn’t it? Why, Rarity, you have done it.” Rarity returned her attention to the trio. “Now… how may I help yo— woah!” She cried. “Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure?!”

“Oh, you mean my mane?” Twilight asked, piecing together what she meant.

“She got wind swept by a pegusas.” Flash explained with a snicker.

“Oh….I’m so sorry, dairy.” Rarity said with a sad look.

“Well, we’re just here to check on the decorations. We’ve done that. So we’ll be out of your hair.” Said Twilight.

“Out of my hair?! Cried Rarity. “What about your hair? Do come, darling, I can make it better then ever.” She began pushing a protesting Twilight in another direction. Flash and Spike following, while Flash tried to cheer Spike up.

Soon, they found themselves at a building that resembled a carousel. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique, and magnifique,” said the white unicorn.

“Huh. That’s kinda catchy,” Twilight had to admit. “You make that up yourself?”

“l sure did,” smiled Rarity. “Now, what can I do with your mane…” Rarity opened a drawer of hair care supplies. “Oh, where are my manners? I haven’t asked your names, darlings. While your at it, why don’t you introduce me to you charming friends ver there.”

Confused, Spike looked around where Rarity pointed her hoof. Thinking that she meant Flash, but he remembered she said, friends. Seeing no other creatures in that direction, Spike quickly realized what she meant. “Wait, are you calling ME charming?” The dragon asked while pointing to himself in a surprise tone of voice, which Rarity picked up on.

“You seem surprised, darling,” said the white Unicorn.

“I am,” Spike confused. “Usually, I’m called stuff like, ‘ overgrown lizard,’ ‘beastly,’ ‘ghastly,’ or ‘ scale-ridden freak.’”

Rarity was taken aback by the young dragon being called such terrible and derogatory things. “That’s simply dreadful!” she said.

“Believe it or not,” Spike said, “those are actually a lot of the NICER things said about me.”

Rarity grew more disgusted that such a could be insulted so much that THOSE terms were considered nice in comparison. “I can’t believe that a young creature like you could be insulted so blithely!”

“You’re probably just thinking those things because I’m a dragon right now,” said a dejected Spike.

“Absolutely not!” declared Rarity. “ I’m a lady and a lady doesn’t disparage someone for problems they have no control over. Now, tell me your name, please.”

“Spike,” admitted the dragon. “Your the 17th pony I’ve met today that didn’t have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“Over at Sweet Apple Acres,” asked Rarity. “Heh, yes, that would account for it. Applejack does mention her apple family reunion a lot.”

“We also saw Rainbow Dash,” said Flash.

“I take it she’s responsible for dear, Twilight’s mane and tail?” said Rarity.

Flash and Twilight nodded. “You know her too?”

“I sure do,” said Rarity. “She moved to Ponyville on her birthday one year and I met her while she was doing some tricks. Admittedly, I didn’t think much of her at the time, but, I’ve come to see her better qualities. Though, her recklessness still gets on my nerves at times. To say nothing of her tendency to slack off.”

“Oh, I’m Twilight Sparkle, by the way,” said the lavender unicorn, remembering she didn’t introduce herself yet. She turned to Flash and pointed at him. “ That’s Flash Sentry, apprentice knight to Golden Glow.”

“It is good to meet you,” he said with a slight bow.

“Knight you say?” Rarity suddenly shot over to stand next to him. She quickly scanned him over, “My My, you do seem the knight in shining armor type. Good muscles and everything.”

“Uggh… thanks.” Flash said, backpedalling from the nose mare.

“Mabye sometime after the celebration, you and I could enjoy an evening dinner?” Rarity said, her eyes blinking seductively.

Flash blinked at the sight, and not sure what to do. Thankfully, Twilight was there to help. “Unfortunately, Flash, Spike, and I will be heading back to Canterlot after celebration is over.”

Rarity blinked as her eyes shifted between the two and suddenly smirked. “Oh, of course my dear. I didn’t mean to come between you to love birds.”

“He’s not my boyfriend.” Twilight replied. As Rarity returned to Twilight and brushed her mane. The lavender unicorn felt rather relaxed by this. More relaxed then she felt all day, if she was honest with herself. Having there manes brushed tend to have an effect on ponies. Especially mares.

“This feels long overdue,” Twilight admitted. “I only regret that I don’t have any bits to pay for this.” Bits were gold or silver coins that were what the ponies used to pay in Equestria.

“Oh, there’s no need to worry about that,” said Rarity. “It’s all free. It’s part of newcomer appreciation policy. I give customers clearly in need a free makeover.”

Twilight and Flash had never heard of that policy before. “That doesn’t sound like a very sound business strategy.” Twilight commented. “It sounds like it could be easily exploited.”

Rarity merely scoffed. “Many have tried, but, none succeeded. And it’s all thanks to these.” Rarity pointed a hoof to her eyes with apparent scenes of pride.

“Uh… okay,” said Flash. “How exactly do your eyes help?”

“I was born with Mystic Eyes of Detail,” Rarity explained. “They allow me to notice smaller details most ponies overlook.”

Spike and Twilight were impressed, especially Flash. “That would be a good Royal Knight power.” he thought to himself.

“Sounds like it comes in handy,” said Spike.

“Oh, it has its uses,” Rarity said modestly yet proudly. “Although they work better from a far way distance. So I have wear my work glasses for more up-close jobs.”

Rarity then began fitting Twilight in various different saddles.

“To green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too… shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you’re from,” Rarity said, going through those saddles before tightening a corset she put on Twilight. Despite the increasing tightness, Twilight made an effort to speak.

“We… we’re sent…” she said while wincing. “From Canterlot… to-“

Rarity heard “Canterlot” and let go of the laces.

“Canterlot?!” she exclaimed. “Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I always dreamed of living there!” I can’t wait to hear all about it!”

Spike rubbed the back of his head. “Honestly, I don’t really have much to tell,” he admitted. “I can’t even remember the last time I walked around in public there. I usually stay indoors so nopony judges me because of…” He gestured to his entire body. “All this.”

Rarity remembered the discrimination Spike said he faced. “Surly not EVERYPONY in Canterlot judges you that way.”

Spike nodded and Flash stepped forward and put hoof around him as he spoke, “Actually there are a few, Me and Twilight, her family, our foalsitter Cadence, Princess Celestia, and Twilights friends, Twinkleshine, Minuette, Lemon Hearts, Moon Dancer, Fleur de lis, and Fancy Pants are pretty much the only ponies there that treat Spike equally.”

“That’s still quite a lot of ponies,” said Rarity.

“Yeah,” Spike admitted, “but, I haven’t seen the last four in a long time. We usually have to wait for THEM to visit us.”

Rarity rubbed his head. “I hope you’ll find Ponyville a more welcoming place.”

Spike nodded. “Oh, I do,” he said. “I’ve encountered 18 ponies scene coming here and only one of them seems to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“I bet I could guess who,” sighed Rarity grimly. “Watch your step around her, darling.”

“Got it,” he’d said. “I’ll keep an eye out for that pink pony with the cotton candy mane and tail.”

“Oh, good heavens!” Cried Rarity. “You don’t mean Pinkie Pie? What did she say.”

“It’s more like what she DID’NT say,” Spike admitted. “Just as I introduced myself, she made a deep gasp and ran away without a word.”

“Well… that means something else entirely, darling.” Chuckled Rarity. “Pinkie’s a very… eccentric mare. Even those who have lived here for awhile and gotten to know her have trouble understanding her. Though, she’s MUCH more friendly than the other pony I thought you met.”

“And that pony is…” asked Twilight. As she took of her corset.

“Spoiled Rich,” said Rarity. “Wife of the local business stallion, Filthy Rich. Their daughter, Diamond Tiara, hasn’t been polite to my sister, Sweetie Belle, or her friend, Scootaloo.”

“With names like those, they’re pretty much begging them to become corporate scumbags,” Spike snidely commented.

“I’m sure they’re not complete jerks.” Flash said.

“Indeed, Filthy Rich is actually a decent stallion,” agreed Rarity. “All the same, he prefers not to be called just Filthy. I’ve heard rumors that he plans on changing his name to Berry. Though, considering the source of the rumors, I’d take it with a grain of salt.”

“We understand either way,” said Twilight. “Now, I don’t mean to come off as rude, but, we came here to check up on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. So, if it’s all the same to you, I think we’ll be on our way the last thing on the list.”

“Well, the decorations are all under control,” said Rarity.

Twilight tried to hide a sigh of relief as she levitated Spike on her back before walking out of the Boutique. “That was close,” said Twilight. “I thought we’d be there until she decided to dye my fur a different color.”

“Yeah, that was an experience.” Flash said as he scratched his head. “It was nice of her to give you that stuff for free.”

“Yep, she was wonderful,” smiled Spike, giving a giggle.

“Yes, though, I’m sure you wouldn’t mind staying longer.” Twilight said with a slight smile at Flash.

“She’s nice, but not my type,” Flash replied with a deadpan stare.

“She better not be.” Spike said, hearing their talk.

“Relax buddy.” Flash with a chuckle as he patted Spikes head. “The only reason she paid me mind is when she heard about me being a knight.”

“Yeah, she did… “ Spike said before snapping his fingers. “Do you think the Royal Knights accept dragons?”

“I don’t know Spike,” Flash said chuckling. “It’s a twenty-four hour job and requires early mornings.”

“How early,” Spike asked, gettIng Flash to turn and look him straight into the eyes.

“Real early. Like…crack of dawn early.”

“Dang it.” Spike moaned as he head dropped down with a sigh. Causing Twilight to giggle.

“Don’t worry, I’m share she’ll still like a guy even if they aren’t a knight.” Flash said as he tried to cheer Spike up. Which it kind of worked.

“Sorry to interrupt,” reprimand Twilight. “But, what’s the last thing on our list Spike?”

“Oh yeah, uh… music,” said Spike, stirred from his daydreaming.

At the park, a fluffy yellow pegasus with a soft pink mane and tail and blue eyes. She had green wings and hooves and green hair clips and a butterfly for a cutie mark. She was fluttering around and conducting a bird choir. The birds were in color of blue, yellow, and green started tweeting in harmony. However, one bird wasn’t doing it right.

“Oh, please stop, everyone,” said the yellow pegasus. To the amazement of Twilight, Flash, and Spike, the birds stopped at once, as if they heard the pegasus. “Umm, Excuse me, sir?” The pegasus addressed the bird, “I mean no offense, but, your Rhythm was just a tinny-tiny a bit off.”

“Is she talking to those birds?” Spike whispered to Twilight.

“Apparently,” gasped Twilight quietly.

“It must be her special talent,” Flash said.

With the birds opting to try again, the pegasus flew to a near tree, “Now, follow me, please. A 1, a 2, a 1, 2, 3—“

It’s was at this moment Twilight and Flash opted to speak up and make themselves own. “Hello!” They greeted in unison, perhaps louder then they intended since it not only startled the pegasus, making her also yelp, and scaring and scattering the songbirds.

“Smooth move, guys,” whispered Spike as he stayed out of the pegasus mares sight. Twilight and Flash approached the yellow mare.

“I’m so sorry,” sighed Twilight. “ We didn’t mean to your birds away. We were just tasked to check on the music and it sounded beautiful.

“Yep, and we also saw you that you were talking to those birds. Are you by any chance a Critter Talker.” said Flash.

“Yes.” The yellow mare replied with barely a whisper so she also nodded. Twilight didn’t hear the (yes), but Flash did with his heightened scenes of hearing. A Critter Talker is a rare type of pony with the seemingly mystical ability to communicate with none-sentient creatures. A pegasus Critter Talker is super rare as pegasi usually lived in the clouds.

This particular mare was more quiet than the previous ponies Twilight and Flash met that day alone. Twilight cleared her throat and said, “I’m Twilight Sparkle and this is Flash Sentry. What’s your name?”

The pegasus whispered something under her breath which only Flash could hear.

“Fluttershy?” Flash asked, not share if he got her name right, “You’re names Fluttershy, right?” she then nodded, causing Flash to smile. “By the way, that really was some nice music.”

“Thank you.” the yellow mare whispered.

“You’re welcome.” Flash replied in a firm tone, causing the pegasus to her face from them, as if embarrassed by something.

Twilight then noticed the birds returning, “Well, it looks like your birds are back, so it looks like everything’s in order. Keep up the good work.” said Twilight.

She and Flash trotted back over to Spike, who came out of the bushes.

The yellow pegasus’s eyes shone brighter then before upon seeing Spike. A switch seemed to flip on her personality as she suddenly exclaimed in excitement. “A baby dragon.”

The birds flew away in surprise and she accidentally knocked Twilight back to get a better look at Spike. “I’ve never seen a baby dragon before! He’s so cute!”

Spike was as surprised as the birds. “Guess that’s number 18.” He said.

“Oh my, he talks!” cried the yellow pegasus. “ I didn’t know dragons could talk Ponish.” Ponish was the language of the Equestrian inhabitants. “That’s so incredibly wonderful! How did you learn how to speak Ponish? I just don’t know what to say?”

“How about “Hello, my name is Fluttershy.” Flash said with a giggle.

“Yes! Yes you’re right!” Fluttershy replied, all of her timidity gone as she turned back to Spike.

Spike answered her previous question honestly, “Uh… my adopted siblings and parents taught me. The unicorn over there is my adopted sister.” Spike then points to Flash, “ And Flash here is an old family friend.”

“Wow!” Cried the yellow pegasus. “ Your parents adopted a baby dragon? That’s so sweet.”

Twilight looked surprised, “You really think so?”

“It sure is,” Fluttershy said. “I take in baby animals all the time, but, having a sibling of another kind is such a sweet feeling. Where did you find his egg?”

Twilight wasn’t prepared for this. “Well, you see,” she said nervously. “I actually hatched Spike from an egg as part of my entrance exam 10 years age.

“Whoa!” Gaped Fluttershy. “That must have been a tricky spell.”

Twilight admitted, “Honestly, it just happened with a sudden surge of magic. Princess Celestia tasked… My parents, brother and I With raising him. I did a lot of the work, though.”

“And I only got in the Sparkle family a few months after ,but I try to help Sipke to.” Flash said as he patted Spikes head.

“No wonder you three are so close,” said Fluttershy. “Does he have a name?”

“My name is Spike.”

“Hello, Spike. I’m fluttershy,” The pegasus finally introduced herself.

“Well, Fluttershy,” said Spike. “You’re the 18th pony in a row I’ve met today that doesn’t seem to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“Saw Applejack’s large family, right?” Fluttershy giggled.

“Yeah, The Apple Family is kind of a big deal here, aren’t they?” Flash commented.

“They founded the town,” said Fluttershy. “Though if it was Granny Smith or a most distant ancestor, I’m not sure.
But it was founded during the Second Pony War. Record keeping wasn’t very reliable back then.”

“Really?” said a surprised Spike. “If that’s the case, shouldn’t their farm be in a better state than it is?”

“I guess that’ll be something to figure out later,” said Twilight. As she levitated Spike on her back. “Do you know where the Golden Oak Library is?”

“I can actually walk you there,” Fluttershy offered. “I regularly barrowed animal care books from there until Mr. Bookworm, the librarian, moved to Baltimare last week.”

“That would be appreciated. Thank you.” thanked Flash.

The three ponies began their trek to the library while Fluttershy looked at Spike curiously. “Spike? Is it true that dragons eat gemstones?” asked the curious pegasus.

“Well, it’s true for ME at least.” the young dragon answered honestly. “Though, rock candy is an acceptable substitute.”

Fluttershy leaned close. “What do gems taste like?” she asked. Twilight sighed, knowing that she was in for a long walk. Flash then Whispered in her ear.

“Just be strong until we reach the library.” He said, to which Twilight nodded.

“Well, it depends on the type of gem.” Spike explained. “Emeralds are my personal favorite. They taste like sour apples. And sapphires come really close at second place. They taste like blue raspberries.”

“Blue raspberries?” gasped Fluttershy. “I don’t think I’ve heard of that fruit like that, much less gems that taste like them.”

“It’s more of a flavoring than an actual fruit,” Spike explained. “I happen to have some rock candy of that flavor right now. Would you like to try it?”

“If it’s alright with you?” Fluttershy accepted. Spike gave her a piece of blue raspberry rock candy, which the pegasus tasted for herself. “Hmm… a bit tart, not bad. What do diamonds taste like?”

Spike winced. “Well, I tried eating diamonds once. I broke a few teeth.” he admitted.

Fluttershy winced.” That must’ve been painful…”

“You don’t know the half of it,” Spike agreed. “Luckily, Princess Celestia was able to fix that.”

Fluttershy was surprised. “She can do that?”

Spike was incredulous. “We’re talking about the one pony who can not only raise and lower the sun and moon, but, has done so for at LEAST a thousand years and never aged a day in years.” he commented. “Is it really THAT surprising?”

“Well, when you say it like that, not really.” said Fluttershy. “ So, what do other gems taste like?”

Spike then listed all the gem flavors. He and Fluttershy continued to talk for a long while. Flash smiled at the sight of Spike not being judged, he looked back at Twilight and new she was trying hard not to sigh. She was soon relieved when she saw a
large oak tree with a beehive resting on one of its branches. The sign she saw confirmed the obvious, this was the Golden Oak Library they would be staying in for the duration of their time in Ponyville.

“I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast?” Twilight spoke in an impatient tone of voice. “This is where we’ll be staying for the time being. And right now, my poor baby dragon needs his sleep.”

“What?” cried Spike. “No I don’t—“ but, Twilight knocked him off her back.

“Aww,” said Twilight in a baby-like way, “he’s so sweepy, he can’t keep his widdle bawance.” Spike was less then amused.

“Seriously, Twilight?” Flash said with an arched eyebrow. However, Fluttershy believed her and picked up Spike.

“Oh, you poor thing,” said Fluttershy as she started head into the library. “You simply must get into bed.”

Twilight used her magic to pull Spike close to her and push Fluttershy out. “Yes, I’ll get right on that. Good day.” she said, slamming the door. She forgot Flash was still outside, leaving the two alone.

“Sorry about her.” he said with a sigh. “I guess she’s a lot like you, only with books instead of animals.”

“That’s okay.” Fluttershy shook her head, suddenly returning to her quiet, shy demeanor.

Flash opened the door and walked it. As he did so, he was met with a super load, “SURPRISE!”

Meanwhile, when Twilight closed the door.

“Did you really need to do that?” Spike asked with indignation. “You know that in pony years, I’m ten years old.”

“Sorry, Spike.” sighed Twilight.“ I just don’t know what these ponies would think if they…” she broke off in confusion. “Where the light?”

Right as she said that Flash entered and the lights came on on their own, revealing several ponies shouting, “SURPRISE!”

Suddenly the pink Earth Pony from earlier appeared in front of them, ”Surprise!” she said again, “Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie and I threw this party just for you!” she said in a super fast tone. “Were you surprised? Were you? Huh, huh, huh?”

The three stared at her in question shock. No doubt this is the same pony Rarity was talking about. Spike recognized her and eyed her suspiciously. “I remember you. Out of all the ponies we met today, you’re the only one who seemed to have a problem with me being a dragon.”

“What?!” cried Pinkie. “Oh, no, no, no, no! That wasn’t it at all. Y’see, I saw you when you first got here. You were all like ‘hello’, and I was all ‘Gasp’, remember? Y‘see, I’ve never seen you and if I never seen you before that means you’re new, cause I know everypony and I mean everypony in Ponyville! And if you’re new that means you haven’t meat anypony yet, you might not have any friends and I know you have each other, but that’s only one friend each and that’s not enough friends! So, I thought to myself, ‘what’s the best way for the two of you to make friends?’ and then it hit me! A party! So, now you have a whole bunch of new friends, isn’t that fantastic?!” she said as she finally ended her rant. In that moment, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy appeared next to her.

Spike found himself dizzy trying to make scene of Pinkies logic. “You don’t think I’m a monster?”

“Oh, you cute little silly willy.” Pinkie explained. “ That wasn’t my ‘there’s a scary dangerous monster’ gasp. That was my, ‘There are new folks in Ponyville and I have to throw a party for them so they can make friends here’ gasp.”

“A bit eccentric,” said Rarity. “but, otherwise a good soul deep down.”

Spike was somewhat relieved. “I’ve gotten gasps like that in Canterlot.” he confirmed. “From experience, the ones doing it thought I was some kind of monster because, you know, dragon.”

Pinkie’s faces shifted into a sincerely apologetic one. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I didn’t know.”

“It’s okay.” said Spike.

I would like to thank you all for being so respectful to Spike.” Flash said as walked up to Spike.” I know you five already know what he’s been through and so far today has been a good one for him.”

“You’re welcome.” The five mares said in unison.

“But Pinkie Pie, I think you might have over done it. Twilight isn’t very social.” Flash said.

“Yeah, because of you know who?” Twilight said, motioning her head to Spike.

“Oh, sorry” Flash said embarrassed.

“Man, get a room you two.” Rainbow said with a smirk. Which caused the others to snicker.

“We are not a couple! They both yelled in unison. “Though, just a reminder,” sighed Twilight. “Librarys are supposed to be quiet.”

“Well, that’s silly! What kind of a welcome party would it be if it were quiet?” giggled Pinkie. “I mean, duh, boring!” She then gave Spike a cupcake. “Here’s one of my specialty cupcakes. And here’s one for you too. And you three.” She gave one to Twilight and Flash.

“Ooh, you’re in for quite a treat.” said Rarity. “Pinkie’s specialty cupcakes are simply divine.”

Twilight simply put her cupcake on the table containing beverages while pouring what she thought was a beverage for herself. Spike and Flash tried their cupcakes and were amazed by the perfect blend of chocolate, vanilla, buttercream frosting.

“Wow, this is great, Pinkie Pie!” Spike grinned.

“Yeah! This is so much better than any cupcakes at the castle.” Flash commented. “Where’d you learn this?”

“Form Mr. and Mrs. Cake,” smiled Pinkie. “They live at Sugarcube Corner. They’re sort of my second mom and dad.”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Second mom and dad? What happened to the first ones?”

“Oh, my parents are still around,” said Pinkie. “they just live super far away. I wasn’t cut out for the family business, so, I decided to try my luck here.”

“What’s your old family business?” Flash asked. “Something to do with pie?”

Pinkie giggled. “No, we farmed rocks! My three sisters and parents are really into it, but… it wasn’t for me.”

“So, your family runs a quarry?” Spike asked, innocently.

“Hmm…” Pinkie pondered to herself. “I guess you can say that.”

“I’m not exactly a farm expert,” Spike admitted. “but, I’m pretty sure rocks are mined. Not farmed. Then, again, I haven’t really gotten out much in the last few years, so, maybe take my input with a grain of salt.”

Just then, Spike, Flash, and the other five ponies they met that day looked over to see Twilight’s face looking red.

“Are you alright, sugarcube?” asked AppleJack.

Twilight’s response came in the form of her mane and tail bursting into flames before she dashed off to find some milk.

“Huh?”Spike picked up the bottle Twilight used to pour herself a drink. “Hot sauce… No wonder she reacted that way. She can’t handle her spice.” Flash cringed, knowing he to didn’t have the tongue for hot food.

“Oh… my…” winced Fluttershy.

“Oh, that’s my bad,” Pinkie admitted. “That was supposed to be at the snacks table.”

“Hey!” cried another pony. This one was a yellow earth pony with a brown mane and tail. “Who put soda at the snack table? My hay fries are soggy.”

“So sorry, Caramel!” cried Pinkie. “I accidentally mixed up the soda and hot sauce.” She went to swap them back and gave Caramel a fresh plate of hay fries.

“Thanks, Pinkie.” said Caramel.

Pinkie gave him a knowing grin. “You know, Applejack’s here, too.” she said, coyly.

“Oh, sh-she is?” he asked in surprise. “Oh… that’s cool.” He stepped off with a bashful grin and bright blush.

“What’s with him?” Spike asked.

“You’ll find out when you’re older.” added Fluttershy.

Spike shrugged and drank the rest of the hot sauce Twilight poured herself. To the amazement of the ponies, he dosent even wince. Rainbow found her voice first.” Did you just down hot sauce without wincing?”

“Us dragons are fireproof.” he chuckled. “I never tried it, but, I could dive into lava without a scorch.”

“Um, if you never tried it before, I don’t think you should be so confident.” Fluttershy said with concern.

“Indeed, who knows if it is true.” Rarity agreed.

“You still earned a few awesome points in my book.” Rainbow said.

Spike gave a grin at the five ponies. “I think I’m going to like it in Ponyville.”

While Spike, Flash, and the other f partied away downstairs, Twilight just wanted to get away from it. She had figured out this prophecy that she had read about earlier and she couldn’t do it with everyone blaring loud music and playing games downstairs. Plus… what would they think of her about raising Spike as a filly?!

Author's Note

We finally meet the rest of the main characters. I would like to know what you think of the story so far.

Nightmare Moon and WHAT???

Late into the night, the party was still raging on. Twilight’s already thin patience grew thinner. “Do these ponies ever NOT party?” she groaned and sighed. “Legend has it.” she said to herself as she scanned another book and looked at the moon. “On the longest day of the 1000th year, the stars will aid in her escape and she will bring about eternal night.” She looked on her book and saw four stars surrounding the moon move closer to it. “And just what are these Elements of Harmony? I hope the Princess is right and that it is just an old Breezies tale.

“And if it isn’t,” Flash said, getting her attention as he walked up to her. “Then I’m sure Princess Celestia is prepared for her.”

“And if she isn’t?” Twilight asked sadly.

“Then I know you’ll find a way to stop her.” He replied with a small, heartwarming, grin. “And you won’t be alone.”

“You’re right, I have you, Spike, my brother, and cadence, and everyone in Equestria.”

“And everyone out there.” Flash said as he gestured to the window. “If she returns, she’ll have to face a whole army of Ponies. Don’t worry, Twilight. Everything will work out, I have hope.”

Twilight smiled, knowing her best friend was right. Then Spike entered. “C’mon, Twilight and Flash!” he cried. “It’s time to watch the sunrise!”

Twilight did have to admit, she loved watching Celestia rasie the sun. She soon found her self, her friends, and everypony else at the Town Hall. Among the crowd were some fillies- Applebloom, the one they had met at the Apple Family Reunion, a white unicorn with a pink and purple mane and tail, and an orange pegasus with dark pink mane and tail. Like Applebloom, the other two were blank flanks.

“Could that white filly be Sweetie Belle?” she wondered to herself. Her pondering was cut short when Pinkie seemed to appear out of nowhere.

“Isn’t this exciting,” she cried. “Aren’t you guys excited? Cause I’m excited so much that I’ve never been so excited! Well, except for time that I saw you walking into town and I went ‘GASP’ but, I mean really, who can top that?” Twilight saw Cadence in the crowd and waved at her.

Fluttershy’s birds began singing as a spotlight focused on a late aged Earth Pony with a scroll for a Cutie Mark. “Fillies and Gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration.” everypony cheered at the announcement as several others clapped their hooves. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year!” the mayor continued.

Twilight, however, turned her attention to the moon. The four stars had come so close, they were no longer visible. The imagery of a mare’s head seen on the moon vanished. Flash noticed Twilight wasn’t paying attention, before he could ask what’s wrong the mayor spoke up again.

“And now, I am honored to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony all of Equestria…”

At this, Fluttershy signaled to her birds. “Ready?” she whispered. The birds nodded.

“Princess Celestia!”

Right on cue, Fluttershy conducted her birds into a fanfare as Rarity drew the curtains. As the curtains opened the spot light moved up, everypony soon realized that nopony was there, and looked up in shock.

“Wh-where is she?!” squeaked the white unicorn filly.

“Uh, Mabye she’s just playing a joke,” suggested Spike. “She IS known for her sense of humor.”

“Wait, really?” asked the orange pegasus filly.

“You don’t know about it?” Spike said, surprised.

“She doesn’t get out to Ponyville too much,” admitted Applebloom. “Ah think the last time she came was about a month ago.”

“Still,” said Rainbow Dash. “You’d think she would have jumped out by now if she did prank us.”

The mayor looked around, panic creeping onto her face. “Stay calm everypony, there must be a reason for this.”

From out of nowhere, a purplish mist appeared in the middle of the balcony. The sight caused Twilight to slowly shrink back and whisper, “Oh no.”

“We need to evacuate the hall.” Flash commanded as he flared his wings and lit his horn. “Twilight, I need you to-“

Suddenly the Town Hall doors open and the same dog creature from earlier run into the building. Ponies scattered as it looked back for a second and ran straight into Flash’s back leg. It fell to the floor and looked up at Flash and then to Twilight.

“What is that thing?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know. I’ve never seen a dog like this.” Flash said as he tried to help it up. The creature growled and backed up, it then put its paw up and closed its eyes, everyone was confused until it opened its eyes and jumped right on to Flash’s back. “Aww, you’re a cute little guy aren’t you?”

“It looks so weird. What do you think it is?” asked Pinkie as she scratched the dogs ear.

“Mabye it a new species that’s just been discovered.” Twilight said, as she goggled the creature in amazement.

Suddenly, again, an angry scoff came from the doors sas the two stallions that were chasing it barged in.The dog immediately growled and got angry. “Can we help you?” Asked Flash, not trusting the look of these two.

“Give to me creature.” said the large on as they approached. “How you say… Pretty please… Or I’ll destroy you.”

“Really? You think you’re gonna step to our friend.” Applejack appeared angrily. “ Cause we got something to say about that.”

“Yeah, how are you gonna do it? There’s only two of you, and thousands of us, hmm?” Rainbow said as she got in their faces.

Then a cackle appeared on the balcony and in the smoke came an alicorn in a dark blue -almost black- colored appearance. She stood at the same height as Celestia. Her mane and tail were dark blue with star-like sparkles adorning it, her flank was purple with a silver crescent moon for a cutie mark.

“Nightmare Moon.” Twilight whispered again, her mouth trembling.

“That’s not good.” Flash replied, ready to take to the air.

“Oh, my beloved subjects,” the intruder said. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen you precious little sun-loving faces.”

The two stallions shoved Flash to the ground and grabbed the dog. They ripped off the potion around its nick and got to where Nightmare Moon was.

“Really?” the alicorn said, growing angrier. “Do none of you remember who I am? Or did that biased Celestia erase any mention of me from history over these 1000 years?”

“There was one mention!” cried Twilight. Twilight and Flash standing before her, ready to fight. “I’ve read a legend about it. You’re the mare in the moon. Nightmare Moon.”

As the ponies in the crowd all gasped in shock, the alicorn seemed to have a wicked grin.”So, someone Does remember me?”

“One of us did.” Flash said, flashing Twilight an apologetic gaze, “But even if we didn’t know the legends, we’d still fight to protect our princess!”

“Pity it won’t do you any good now! Remember this day, little ponies. Because it was your last. From this moment on, the night, will last, FOREVER!” The alicorn laughed wickedly as her mane and tail became a cloudy vortex.

“Wait a minute!” Spike screamed, making Nightmare Moon stop. “I don’t understand. How did you escape from the moon? Princess Celestia made shure it was permanent. There’s no way you could’ve gotten out on your own.”

Nightmare Moon laughed at this question. “I didn’t escape on my own. I had a little help from an old partner of mine.” She said as all of a sudden two green eyes appeared behind her. Foot steps walking out into the light to reveal a Satyr like demon with ear rings on his horns and a light crimson chest plate and rist bands. He had huge red wings and a long black beard. His lower half was like that of a minitor and a long tail with furr on the end.

“No… it can’t be.” Twilight said fear coming all over her body. “Zarozard” she whispered.

”ITS ME”