Mlp adventures : A mare in the moon

”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.