Comet's Tale

by svcvcv

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, Alternate Universe, Thunderlane, Doctor Whooves, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Soarin, Romance, Adventure, Braeburn, Twilight Sparkle
Length: 89701

Being Celestia's personal protege Comet Tail never saw any merit in making friends. Can the latest assigmnet in the small town of Ponyville, and five recently met stallions change his attitude? It better does because future of Equestria might depend

Being Celestia's personal protege Comet Tail never saw any merit in making friends. Can the latest assigmnet in the small town of Ponyville, and five recently met stallions change his attitude? It better does because future of Equestria might depend on it.

Crossposted from Archive of our own.

Cover was drawn by the talented Ajilin Parker
Her instagram https://www.instagram.com/ajlinparker/?hl=en

Published 2024-10-02 12:50:01 UTC
Last updated 2025-02-18 08:15:42 UTC

Prolougue

The sound of the bare feet could be heard in the air. If anypony was to interrupt their activities they would’ve noticed a small purple dragon running across the street.

Nevertheless the chance of the inhabitants paying attention to something so ‘low’ and ‘mundane’ was close to zero. Not because dragons were such a common sight in the city.

It was because the city in question was Canterlot. The capital of Equestria. Their matters were well above the matters of common ponyfolk.

But it wasn’t important to the dragon. What mattered to him was finding his brother. With the constant high speed he finally reached their estate. A Yellow mare with blue mane greeted him.

“Hello there Spike.”
“Hi mom!” He quickly replied to the mare while running past her. Young reptile run upstairs, to the highest tower in the residence.

Upon arriving he entered the room. It was dimly lit by one balcony window. All of the interior was covered in all manner of books stuck on top of each other and cobwebs.

It would’ve been completely empty, if it wasn’t for a young yellow unicorn that looked strikingly similar to the mare Spike run by earlier. If it wasn’t for the fact that this was a stallion.

The pony in question was peacefully napping on one of his books. Drool coming out of his mouth and leaving stains on the paper.

“Comet!” Spike shouted, which caused the equine to get up violently.

“Whass dis allbout?” He slurred his speech slightly.

“I’ve just got a letter from Celestia! She wanted to see you in fifteen minutes, but it took me five to get here!”

Stallion was immediately awake. He used his aura to put the young drake on his back.

“Wow. A free ride? Nice!”
“Don’t get too used to it. It’s an emergency.”

With that the pony galloped out of his house and started heading towards the royal palace. On some point during the journey both of them noticed they were getting close to a group of ponies. Spike remembered them as Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine and Minuette. The three of them were talking until Minuette noticed the duo.

“Hi comet! We three were wondering-”
“No time! Sorry girls!” And with that he ran past them without even looking.

He went upstairs.
Turn right, left, right, up, down. Finally he was in the west wing.
That was it. The throne room.

With that comet entered the massive chamber. Inside of it, on the throne resided the aged ruler of Equestria. Of course you wouldn’t be able to tell that due to the fact that princess looked thirty for the past few millennia.

Stallion bowed before his mentor and teacher.

“Your majesty, you summoned me.”
Princess smiled warmly.

“At ease my hard-working student. I summoned you because we need to discuss a very pressing matter involving.”

Comet gulped audibly. “Alright You Majesty. What is it? Am I banished? Was my latest assignment not up to your standards? Have you decided to demote me to your usual student and make Twilight your protege instead?”

Celestia laughed. “No, although if I had to name my protege somepony beside you that would be Twilight. I want to talk with you about… friendship.”

Oh boy here we go again. Buck me.

“Oooh, friendship,... what about it?”
“You lack friends besides Spike and Twilight.”

“Why would I need anypony else? I have my number one assistant and my best study-buddy.

“World doesn’t revolve around studying. You need to meet more ponies.”
“Why?”

“Because friendship, my little pony is one of the oldest forms of magic.”

Comet tail considered princesse’s words.

“This may be truth. However…” He pulled a book out of his saddlebag. “What we know for sure is that Nightmare Moon is prophesied to return on the thousandth moon after her banishment. This corresponds to this year’s Summer Sun Celebration. I think-”

“I, on the other hoof while trusting you completely, think you should stop reading these dusty old books.” Celestia interrupted him. “I think this calls for a royal decree.

She cleared her throat. “Rapid Quill?”
“Coming, Your Majesty!” Answered a voice from the other room.

A few seconds later a beige pegasus stallion with blonde mane entered the chamber. He pulled out a pen and parchment paper.

“In the name of Faust the all-mother and eternal alicorn rule. We Celestia Ruler of Equestria and the lands beyond issue an order upon Comet Tail to make his way to Ponyville and find at least one new friend while he supervises the preparations to the Summer Sun Celebration.

Rapid Quill wrote everything down on the parchment. Celestia smiled at Comet again.

“I wish you a merry time with the kind denizens of ponyville.”

He bowed his head again. “Your Grace. I’m afraid that I won’t be able to go as I stand. I’ll have to pack a few things up.”

She smiled again.

“Don’t worry, pack everything you need.”

With that he bowed for the last time and left the room with Spike and took a deep breath.

“Don’t worry too much about it.” Said Spike assuringly. “I’m sure you will complete the assignment in no time and be back in Canterlot.”

“What assignment?”

Both drake and stallion turned their head to the source of the sound. It turned out to be unicorn mare of similar age to Comet. She had a lavender coat, dark purple mane and pink six-pointed star for a cutie mark.

“Uh-huh. I forgot about the queen of eavesdropping herself.”

She bowed mockingly. “The one and only. But you didn’t answer my question.”

He sighed. “Princess is sending me to some middle of nowhere to make friends.”

The mare giggled. “Seems like a great opportunity for a socially challenged pony like you.”

Comet snickered. “Look who’s talking. Twilight Sparkle, queen of eggheads, ruler of Bookwormia.”

She raised her forelegs. “Guilty as charged. But I’m just a student of Celestia, not her personal protege. A little more is expected from you.”

“You’re… actually quite right in your assessment.”
“Do you have any tactics prepared?”

Comet shrugged his arms. “Not really. Try to interact with other ponies, see how it goes. Not everything needs to be pre-organised, you know?”
“Oh I know. Your studying room can attest that.”

“I believe they call it an artistic mess, thank you very much.”
Both of them laughed at the remark but Twilight changed her expression to a more serious one after.

“Comet?”
“Hmm?”

“Can you… write to me while you’re doing the assignment?”
“It’ll be just a few days.”

“I know but Canterlot without you, is just… not the same. I want to be reminded that you remember me, mkay?”

He looked at her. Faust one knew why but under this lighting she looked prettier than usual. He smiled warmly.
“Ok, I promise.”

“Thanks.” She replied. “I really appreciate that.”

Twilight looked at the clock. “Oh my. Look at the time. I think it’s time for me leave. See ya after the assignment.” And with that she trotted away.

“See ya then.” Comet said to himself.

Bridle Gossip

“Is it just me or is the sky prettier than usual?” Asked Twilight while strolling through the town with Spike and Comet.

Her childhood friend raised his head to see better. “Hmm, perhaps Soarin has gotten up early for once and cleared all the clouds away?”

“Maybe but where is everypony?” Asked Spike. “We haven’t seen a single soul since we left the library.”

“Good question, maybe today’s some local celebration?” Proposed Twilight.

“Even if the majority of the town was celebrating, it still doesn’t explain why there’s nopony in sight.” Countered Comet.

It wasn’t until they were near the Sugar Cube Corner that they heard something.

“Psst! Comet, Twilight…”

They turned to the direction of the sound to see Pinkie Pie whispering to them from the window.

“Come quickly! Before she gets you three!”

They went inside as the pink mare asked them to.

“May I ask what are you doing here alone in the dark?” Asked Comet.

“Oh, I’m not alone here!” Pinkie said.

At that moment Twilight and Comet noticed that the room was filled with the rest of the mane six plus Rumble and Applebloom. Almost all of their muzzles betrayed fright, save for Time Turner and the two foals.

“Okay then, what are you all doing here, hiding?” Twilight inquired.

“We’re hidin’ from her!” Said Braeburn, while pointing at something.

All of them walked to the window. There was a pony-like hooded figure, digging something in the ground with her hoof. Suddenly she pulled off her hood and looked at the ponies gathered at the window. She was a zebra with blue eyes a mohawk and rings around her neck.

All but Comet Tail, Twilight and Time Turner, backed down.

“Will you cut that out?” Comet asked a little annoyed by their behaviour.

Apple Bloom walked closer to the lavender mare. “Did you see her Twilight? Did you see… Zecora?”

Before anyone else could say anything Braeburn furrowed his brows.
“Apple Bloom! I told you to don’t say her name!” He said.

“As though, this matters in any way.” Time Turner said skeptically.

“Well, I saw her glance that way-” Said Twilight.

“You mean evilly glance this way.” Interrupted Cheese Sandwich

“...And then the bunch of you flip out for no good reason.” She finished.

“No good reason? You call protectin' yer kin no good reason?” Asked Braeburn somewhat angrily. He took Applebloom under his arm.

“Why, as soon as my cus saw Zecora ridin' into town, she started shakin' in her lil' horseshoes.” He added.

“Did not!” The filly protested.

“So I swept her up and brought her here, for safe keepin.’” Braeburn finished.

“Ah walked here myself!” Apple Bloom said angrily. “You and Applejack should get it through your heads, I’m not a baby anymore!”

“Tell me about it.” Said Rumble unamused.

Thunderlane sighed. “Don’t start this today. I’m after a shift and tired as all Tartarus.”

The colt rolled his eyes. “Whatever.”

“Good thing you have a brother as protective as Thunderlane, kid.” Said Soarin. “You don’t know what to expect around that creep.”

“I know right?” Said Cheese Sandwich. “What kind of sociopath paint themselves in black stripes.

“She didn’t paint herself.” Said Comet Tail, slightly annoyed. “She’s a zebra. It’s her inherent trait not a form of artistic expression.”

“I’ve never seen a pony like her in these parts, cept’ her. Where’s she from?” Inquired Braeburn.

“Most probable answers are either Zebrabwe or Farasi.” Replied Twilight. “Though Zebra’s diasporas have settled in all the neighboring kingdoms. Where does she live exactly.

“That’s the spookiest part of all.” Said Cheese Sandwich “She lives in the Everfree forest.”

“Quite a brave gal.” Remarked Time Turner. “I wonder what prompted her to settle there.”

“Probably, the welcoming locals.” Noted Comet Tail sarcastically.

“Everything is cool and all, but have any you seen Zecora actually do something?” Asked Rumble still not convinced.

“Rumble just… don’t.” Said his older brother sounding defeated.

“No,no,no this young colt actually makes a good point.” Said Time Turner looking at Braeburn, Soarin and Thunderlane. “Have you?”

“Well… once a month she comes to Ponyville.” Said Soarin.

“Oooh!” Mocked Rumble.

“Then she lurks at the stores.” Added Braeburn

“Oh,my.” Rumble continued on ridiculing

“And then she digs in the ground.” Cheese Sandwich said.

“Goodness gracious!” Sneered the gray colt.

He finally looked at his older brother. “What do you think?”

Thunderlane shrugged his arms. “I think it’s better to be safe than sorry.”
Rumble groaned.

“Can’t I at least say hello?” He asked.
“Until we figure out her intentions you’re staying away from her.” Said Thunderlane authoritatively, starting to get fed up with his brother's antics.

“Have any of you actually approached Zecora and talked to her?” Asked Twilight.

She was met with silence.

“Thought as much.” Said Comet.

“Don’t judge, dude. Something like this requires guts.” Replied Soarin defensively.

“I have guts.” Said Rumble. “Can I-”

“NO!” Thunderlane boomed at his younger brother.

The argument between gathered ponies was growing stronger minute by minute, so much so that none of the adults noticed that one of the foals was missing.

“Well, I heard that Zecora eats hay.” Said Pinkie Pie.

Comet sighed. “Pinkie, I eat hay. You eat hay!”

“Yeah, but I heard, it’s the evil way she eats hay.” The mare replied.

Soarin had a feeling something was wrong. “Ehh… guys?”

“What?” Asked Comet, tired of the conversation that seemed to go nowhere.

“Where’s Apple Bloom?”

Silence filled the room. Braeburn’s face went so pale he reminded Comet of Shining Armor.

“Alright, it’s no time to panic.” Thunderlane took the initiative. “The elements will retrieve Apple Bloom, while the rest of you will stay put.”

“Why?” Asked Rumble.

“Because there needs to be somepony waiting for Apple Bloom in case she comes back.” Retorted The dark gray pegasus. “Plus y’all be safe here.”

Comet cocked his eyebrow at Thunderlane's mannerism while speaking. Was it Braeburn rubbing off on him?

“While I appreciate the concern, I’m going with you.” Said Twilight. “I‘m going to put a stop to this superstitious way of thinking about foreign creatures.”

Thunderlane nodded his head. “As you wish.”

With that they all went looking for the missing filly.

Following Zecora was easier than Apple Bloom initially thought.

Just stay at about 30 hooves away from the zebra and make sure to keep close to the vegetation in case she glances back. Foal’s play, really.

She followed her for at least half a mile, until they finally reached the edge of the Everfree forest.

Apple Bloom swallowed a lump in her throat and reluctantly followed the striped equine.

All was going according to plan, until…

“Apple Bloom!”

She looked behind her to see the element bearers and Twilight, among them, her angry looking cousin.

“Get yer flank right here youn’ lady before yer sista’ flays me!” Braeburn added angrily.

“Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke!” Zecora ominously said from afar.

Braeburn ran over to the filly and put her on his back.

“Y-you keep your creepy mambo jumbo yo yourself, yo hear!” He shouted.

“Yeah! What he said!” Exclaimed Soarin as he walked up to his friend.

“Oh brother.” Sighed Twilight.

“My thoughts exactly.” Added Time Turner.

Braeburn and Soarin shouted a few insults before making their way to the rest of the group.

“That will show her!” Said Soarin proudly.

“It sure will.” Replied Comet Tail snarkily.

After a short argument about whether the Soarin and Braeburn’s actions were justified, all of them went on their own separate ways.

They wouldn’t even imagine what awaited them tomorrow

The next day Comet woke up groggy and not in a good mood. All the night he was haunted by bad dreams, mostly about his friends meeting a terrible fate.

All this talking about curses started plowing seeds of doubt in his mind. What if Soarin and Braeburn were right? What if his dreams meant something.

“Hello, equus to Comet.”

The unicorn looked up to see smiling Twilight. “I asked if you want another batch of fried eggs.”

“Uhh, yeah sure. Thanks”

But before she could get to the stove something hit the window with tremendous force. After a few seconds it hit again, this time the wall

They all heard a groan that sounded suspiciously familiar.
“Soarin?” Asked Twilight.

“A curse! She put a-” This time the pegasus collided with the door, opening it and flying inside. Upon entering the library he rammed into the bookshelf.

It was a surreal experience for Comet to watch one of the best flyers he knew struggle with basic aerial navigation.

“Zecora, she cursed us for what we said!” The pegasus exclaimed angrily.

“We?” Inquired Twilight.

Before Soarin could say anything Braeburn entered the library with a disgruntled face.

“Braeburn, you okay buddy?” Asked Comet.

The stallion shook his head.

“There’s also something wrong with you?”

The earth pony nodded.

They waited for an answer but it didn’t come.

“Are you going to tell us, or…”

“You don’t have to feel ashamed of anything.” Twilight said supportively, chiming into the conversation.

The apple farmer sighed. “I don’t wanna talk about it.” He said in a comically high voice.

All of them were taken aback with exception of Spike, who started to laugh uncontrollably.

Comet’s ‘slap’ to the back of his head, stopped the young drake’s fit.

“In my case it looks like I fly in reverse.” Interjected Soarin. “We’ve got to that zebra and make her pay for that.”

“Steady now, Soar.” Said Comet. “I’m sure we can find a book that explains your and Braeburn’s predicament.”

Spike walked to one of the sections and pulled out a single book.

“What about this one?” He asked.

Comet took a glance at the suggested book and grimaced.

"Supernaturals"? Spike, the word supernatural refers to things like ghosts and spirits and zombies, which are as make-believe as curses. This book is just a bunch of hooey!”

“But what if that’s the answer?” Asked the young drake. “What if-”

“Enough!” Said Comet with a firm tone. “Everypony! We’re leaving in two minutes and taking this matter to Time Turner. If he doesn’t know what to do then i don’t know who will.”

They did as Comet said and soon enough where inside Time Turner’s workshop, explaining the problem.

“I have to say during my lifetime I’ve seen some strange things.” He said taking off his glasses. “But this one takes the cake. Pegasus flying backwards and a pony with a high pitched voice without any exterior factors involved? I’m intrigued myself.”

“I take it you don’t know the solution either?” Asked Comet.

Time Turner shook his head. The yellow unicorn sighed.

“Guys?!”

All of them turned to the direction of the voice to see a very nervous Thunderlane.

“Rumble is missing. I can’t find him anywhere.” He said.

Braeburn’s eyes widened. “AJ couldn’t find Apple Bloom when I was leaving the farm.”

Thunderlane’s face changed to that of confusion. “What happened to your voice?”

“Zecora.” Replied Soarin before anyone could say anything. “Not only did she curse us, she also took Rumble and Apple Bloom!”

“What a bunch of rubbish.” Snarled Time Turner. “Braeburn and Thunderlane were so against the idea that it intrigued the little ones. I bet my workshop and everything that is in it that they’re on their way to see her right now.”

“That settles it.” Said Braeburn. “We need to go catch Apple Bloom and Rumble before they do something they’ll regret.

“And make Zecora talk.” Added Soarin.

Twilight, Comet and Time Turner had mixed feelings about all of this.

The young member of the Apple family had chosen a route that she was familiar with. Easy choice if the only other option is getting lost in the forest. She continued her walk for about an hour before she heard something familiar.
“What are you doing here?”

She turned her head to see Rumble.

“Ah findin’ out the truth.” Apple Bloom replied.

“The truth?”

“Yeah, you know 'bout Zecora.”

The colt grinned “Well then it’s a good thing you’ve just got yourself a companion.”

The filly smirked “Just try not to slow me down, alright?”

Rumble chuckled “I won’t. I’ll even tell you where to go.”

Apple Bloom lived up a little. “You know the way?”

He shrugged his arms. “Vaguely. I know that her hut is somewhere in the western parts of the forest.” The colt took out the compass. “This will help us.”

And so they went to finally meet the mysterious figure they’ve heard so much about.

After a long journey the element bearers and Twilight found themselves before a dwelling that was built into the natural form of the tree, much like the Golden Oak library.

All of them huddled by the window. Inside they saw a room full of colorful potions and exotic masks. Vines crawling themselves on shelves gave it a nice rustic look.

“Nice masks.” Said Soarin. “If you gobble up foals for lunch.”

“There has been no recorded proof of zebras eating ponies.” Remarked Twilight. “It’s most probably just a fairy tale conjured out of fear.”

At that moment Zecora entered the hut. She walked up to the iron cauldron sitting in the middle of the room and poured some ingredient from a small clay pot.

The zebra softly chanted something the ponies couldn’t understand.

“She’s putin’ a curse on somepony else.” Said Braeburn.

“Don’t be ridiculous.” Said Twilight. “Zebras cannot cast spells.

“Can’t they?” Comet asked unsure. “We don’t know that much about them, Twilight. Last time I checked there was nothing about them having cutie marks.”

The unicorn pointed at her flank, which in fact presented a spiral shape. “Who says they can’t cast spells then?”

“I…I…” Twilight didn’t know how to counter Comet’s arguments as he clearly had a point.

“She could be just simply making a soup.” Time Turner decided to chime in.

Meanwhile Zecora stopped stirring the cauldron and smiled. “Mmm! The perfect temperature for ponies, I presume. Now, where is that little Apple Bloom?”

Thunderlane tensed up immediately. “I’ve heard enough.” He started trotting quickly towards her door.

“Wait-” Started Time Turner but it was too late. The dark pegasus had already swung the door open.

“Where are they?!” Thunderlane spoke loudly.

“Excuse me?” Asked the zebra.

“Apple Bloom and Rumble, where are they!?”

Before anyone could say anything else Soarin had flew inside the hut in a chaotic manner, knocking a few potions and the cauldron, spilling it’s content on the floor.

By that time the rest of the group made their way inside the hut.

“No! You know not what you do! You've gone and spilled my precious brew!” Exclaimed the zebra angrily.

“We’re onto you Zecora!” Shouted Soarin. “You made me fly in reverse!”

“You made me sound ridiculous!” Braeburn yelled in a high pitch voiced.

“And you’ve kidnapped two foals!” Added Thunderlane.

“Enough!” Shouted Time Turner. “I’m sure there must’ve been some kind of misunderstanding.”

“How dare you! You destroy my home, destroy my work, then rudely accuse me of being a jerk?” Zecora argued back.

She started bumping heads with Thunderlane, steam coming off from their nostrils.

“Zecora! I think we found everything you’ve as-” Rumble and Applebloom stopped in their tracks as they entered the room completely unharmed.

“Eeeh… did we miss something?” Asked the gray colt.
“What in Ponyville is goin’ on here?” Asked Apple Bloom only to be immediately hugged by Braeburn.

“Apple Bloom! Oh, thanks Faust you’re alright!” He said delighted.

Both foals looked at him weirdly.

“Why do you sound like that?” Rumble asked, confused.

Thunderlane stomped his hoof powerfully on the wooden floor, drawing the colt’s attention.

Rumble gulped, intimidated.

“You and I will be having a talk later today.” Said the older pegasus ominously.

Soarin didn’t know what to think.

“But, what about these curses?” He asked.

Zecora chuckled. “If you will remember back, the words I spoke were quite exact. Beware, beware you pony folk. Those leaves of blue are not a joke.”

“It was a warnin'. About that blue plant. It's called Poison Joke.” Explained Apple Bloom.

“That plant is much like poison oak, but its results are like a joke.” Added Zecora.

“What does that mean?” Asked Comet Tail.

“It means this plant does not breed wrath. Instead, this plant just wants a laugh.” Said the zebra.

“An’ in ponish?” Inquired a very confused Braeburn.

“I think what she's saying is that, when we ran in to save Apple Bloom, we ran into the poison joke. All our problems are just little jokes it played on us.” Twilight chimed in.

“Okay, fine. But what about the cauldron?” Asked Soarin.

“An’ the chantin’?” Added Braeburn

“And the creepy décor?” Finished Thunderlane.

“Treasures of the native land where I am from.” Said Zecora painting to the masks. “This one speaks 'hello', and this 'welcome'.”

“Not welcoming at all, if you ask me.” Replied the dark pegasus.

“The words I chanted were from olden times.” The zebra continued. “Something you call a nursery rhyme.”

“But the cauldron... The Apple Bloom soup?” Asked Comet.

“Lookie here Comet. That pot of water wasn't for me, it was for all these herbal ingredients. The cure for poison joke is a simple old-natural remedy. You just gotta take a bubble bath!” Apple Bloom said pointing to the opened book.

“But I tried to find a cure in all my books and couldn't find anything. What book has this natural remedy?” Comet asked Zecora.

“Here is the book, you see? Sad that you lack it in your library.” The Zebra said, closing it and pointing to the cover.

But Comet recognised it immediately.

“Actually, I do have this book, but I didn't look inside because the title was so... Weird. ‘Supernaturals: Natural Remedies and Cure-alls That Are Simply Super’. I, I…” The unicorn felt embarrassed. “I'm so sorry, Zecora. I had the answer the whole time, if only I had bothered to look inside.”

The Zebra chuckled and smiled. “Maybe next time you will take a second look, and not judge the cover of the book.”

“Zecora? Would you be kind enough to mix up another batch of the herbal bath?” Twilight asked.

“Mix it up I certainly will. Yet I am missing an herb from Ponyville.” Zecora said.

“The thing is whenever Zecora comes to town all the shops are mysteriously closed.” Rumble said with a hint of sarcasm.

Twilight and Comet looked at each other.

“I think we can help you with that.” Time Turner said, smiling.

Soon enough both Braeburn and Soarin were sitting inside the herbal bath, inside the Ponyville Day Spa. The rest of the Mane Six and Twilight were taking a regular bath.

“You know… she’s not that bad after all.” Said Soarin.

“Ah concur.” Replied Braeburn this time in his natural voice.

Comet Tail smiled. “Went better than I expected.” He said out loud.
“If you omit the fact that we broke into her home and damaged a few valuable items, then I guess it went pretty smooth.” Twilight said teasingly.

Comet scratched the back of his head, smirking. “Heh, that was pretty funny… You know what’s funnier?”

The mare shook her head. “Enlighten me.”

“Tomorrow we will have a huge book delivery and somepony needs to sort them out alphabetically while I read the latest Daring Doo entry.

She giggled. “You’re about as ‘hardworking’ as when you were in the school for gifted unicorns.”

“Would you want it to be any other way?”

She seated herself closer to him, something Comet didn’t expect.

“Never.” She replied, laying her head on his shoulder, causing him to blush, much to the amusement of other members of the mane six.

“Ah bet 10 bits somethin’ will happen between these two by the end of the year.” Braeburn whispered to Soarin.

The pegasus chuckled. “I bet 20 it’ll be by the end of this month.”

“Deal.” Said Braeburn spitting on his hoof. Soarin did the same, sealing the deal.

The weather patrol pony really hoped he will be right this time.

Author's Note

Next chapter will be an original one. That's all I'm going to say. Don't want to spoil a suprise.
Have a nice day.

Announcement

I should probably tell you that I have profile on A03, if you orefer to read Comet's Tale there.

Here you go.

Introductions

From between the clouds Comet could start making out a silhouette. A Town not bigger than few thousand ponies.

When the royal chariot pulled by two pegasi landed, Comet could finally take a better look. It was an old town with a square. Had a really nice rustic charm to it.

“Thanks guys.” He told the two guards before getting down from the chariot with Spike and his baggages. They nodded in understanding and took off.

“You know, the best way to break the ice so to speak is to just try getting it over with.” Dragon said to his adoptive brother.

They noticed an earth pony stallion with light gamboge coat and brown curly mane. He was wearing a yellow polo shirt and his cutie mark was that of cut cheese sandwich.

“Let’s try with this guy.” Spike proposed.
“Alright, let’s get this over with.”

The pony in question was getting closer and closer.
“Hi, I’m Comet Tail, I’m sorry to bother but I just wanted to ask-”

The puffy-maned stallion stopped in his track and looked at the comet with his green eyes. Suddenly his left hind leg started vibrating.

“Umm, everything okay there, buddy?”

Stallion’s face turned to that of pity and compassion. Before Comet knew it the stranger was already hugging him.

“You poor, poor soul. What went wrong in your life?”
Comet did not know what to say.

“Excuse me?”
“Your party life. It’s been pretty much nonexistent since you turned twelve right?”

Comet was released from the awkward hug.
“I-”
“Shh” The stallion put his hoof on the comet's mouth. “You poor, poor soul. Don’t you worry, I, Cheese Sandwich vow to make you a part you won’t forget for the rest of your life. See ya then!”

And with that he disappeared into the alleyways of the town.

“That was interesting.” Said Spike.
“Creepy is the word I’d use.”

They couldn’t pay too much mind to the eccentric stallion. There were still things that needed supervision.
“So what’s on the list sent by the princess?” Asked the unicorn.
Spike took out a small piece of paper.

“Banquet preparation. It’s written here that we will have to head towards Sweet Apple Acres.”
“Let’s not waste any more time then.” Said the pony and both of them headed towards their destination. After a few minutes of asking around and actually walking they reached a Enormous red farmhouse. Next to it was an apple Orchard that stretched out for miles.

“Yeehaw!”
The duo noticed an earth pony stallion with light golden coat and gamboge mane. Upon him rested a leather vest and a cowboy hat. He tucked his hind legs up and bucked the tree with enough force to make all of the apples fall down.

“This guy definitely means business.” Comet muttered to himself. “Hello there, hi! My name’s Comet Tail and-”

“ Hey there now partner! Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres, where we sure do love makin' new friends. Ah'm Braeburn here, an' how might Ah be able tah help yuh out?” Stallion spurted out while vigorously shaking the unicorn’s hoof.

“I was sent here-” He broke out his hoof from the shake. “I was sent here by Princess Celestia herself to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun celebration. I take it you’re in charge of the food.”

“Ah am sughacube.”
Comet turned around to see an earth pony mare. She had an orange coat and a blonde mane. Upon her head also rested a cowboy hat but with a slightly different shape.

He took a look at both of the ponies. There unmistakingly similar, down to their apple related cutie marks.

“I take you two are related?”

Pony known as Breuburn laughed.
“That right there's mah cousin Applejack, . And let me tell ya jack, Comet Tail here is no slouch either. He was sent here by Princess Celestia herself to supervise. Can you imagine?”

The mare smiled.
“I sure hope he would like to sample some.” With that she pointed to table filled apple fritters, apple pies and all other types of apple related baked goods. A table that Comet would’ve sworn was not there before.

“Well there seems to be everything fine with the food, so maybe I’ll make my way and-”
“Aww, you’re not staying here for brunch?” Asked a yellow filly with crimson red mane.

“I-no. Who even are you?”
“That’s mah sister Apple Bloom and these ponies over there are Apple Fritter, Apple Bumpkin, Red Gala, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp…” She took a deep breath and the unicorn noticed there were far more ponies now than before.

“Big McIntosh and finally matriarch of the family, sweet Granny Smith.”
“Hello there youngin!” Greeted him an elderly mare.

Comet didn’t really know what to say, so he decided to do something that seemed the most reasonable.

“Would you look at the time?” He asked and quickly pointed to the non-existent watch on his wrist. “Gotta go, bye!” And with that both him and Spike run away in a hurry.

“ Well, ain't he just a strange ol' colt?” Asked Braeburn.
“Eeyup.” Replied a huge red stallion introduced as Big McIntosh.

“So I see you’ve chosen a coward’s way.” Spike laughed. “Pretty embarrassing.”
“Knock it off dude.” Growled Comet. “How was I supposed to tell them I don’t like apples? They centered their whole life around them.”

“Yeah. I can see your point. Anyway…” Spike rolled out the parchment. “Next one on the list is weather.” They both looked up to see a cloudy sky.

“As opposed to food they seem to be lacking in this department.” Noted Spike.
“No kidding.” Grumbled Comet. “When I leave my baggage at the Golden Oak Library, I’ll have a word with whoever is in charge.

“Excuse me…” They turned to see a dark gray pegasus stallion with a silver mohawk. His voice was weirdly calming which contrasted his aggressive appearance.

“I’m not usually the one to eavesdrop but I’ve heard you two were talking about the weather?”

Dragon and his brother looked at each other.
“Yeah, what of it?” Asked Spike.
“I’m the head of the weather patrol here in Ponyville.”

Comet furrowed his brows. “Well you haven’t been doing a very good job now, have you?”

Stallion chuckled slightly. “I know how it looks like but we actually have everything under control.”

Unicorn didn’t really know how to respond to that. “What?”

“Today is Soarin’s shift. He’s napping right now on that cloud over there.”
Dark stallion pointed to one of the clouds and sure enough one could make out a silhouette of a pegasus laying there. Pegasus on the ground took air into his lungs.

“Soarin, get your flank down here quickly!” He roared.
The other stallion in question violently shook up from the sudden wake up and after taking in his surroundings flew down. He had a pale blue coat and dark blue mane which was unkemptly combed backwards.

“What is it man?”
Weird way to greet your boss, but Comet was already used to weird things in this town.

“I’m afraid you’ll have to clean all that sky as soon as possible.”
Soarin seemed less than pleased. “Can’t I have like half an hour more of sleep?”

“No you can’t.” It was Comet’s turn to enter the conversation. “The Summer Sun Celebration is right around the corner and the sky is in the state I would describe as less than flattering. Do what they pay you to do.”

The pegasus looked at Comet with his dark green eyes, his brows also furrowed slightly.
“Bro, can you like, chill out for a moment. The celebration isn’t even today. It’s tomorrow at dawn, if my memory serves me well.”

“I’m not your bro. I was sent here by the princess to check on the weather. All I’ve found so far is the head of the patrol who doesn’t know how to manage one stallion under him. Said stallion being to lazy to properly work leaves sky in a state that doesn’t adhere to royal guidelines.”

The head of patrol looked at his subordinate seriously. “It’s time.”

Soarin nodded knowingly and stretched like a cat.
The next few seconds were hard for Comet to register. Previously lazy stallion flew into the sky and in the few blinks of an eye made it crystal clear.

The only place where he saw pegasi fly with comparable speed was the Wonderbolts shows.

The dark grey stallion was smiling as Comet stood there his mouth agape.
The blue pegasus flew down to the ground.

“As I was saying bro, I needed to save energy for my later training. Wonderbolts won’t just take anypony in and I need to impress them tomorrow.”

“I… I guess.” Said dumbfounded unicorn.
“And this…” Said the second pegasus. “Is why Soarin is the only pony on his shift.”

Stallion in question smiled slightly due to the praise. “Now gentlemen, if you excuse me…” He spread wings. “Daily exercise schedule is not going to complete itself.”

And with that he was gone again.
“That’s our Soar alright.” Said the other pegasus with a sigh. “If only he wasn’t that lazy, he already would’ve been a Wonderbolt. I’m sure of that”

“I must say I’m rarely impressed but that was one of these times.” Said Comet.
“I’m more impressed by the size of your baggage.”

Unicorn looked at his bags and realized it would take him a long time to bring them to the library.

“Where do you intend to drop them off?” Asked the gray stallion.
“Why do you care?” Comet replied suspiciously

“It’s a huge load and you don’t strike me as a stallion that lifts, no offense. So I thought perhaps I could help you out ”

“None taken.” Comet thought for a moment. “You know that if you try anything I know what you look like. Robbing a royal protege is quite a serious crime.”

Stallion laughed. “Don’t worry royal protege, I’m not quite out of my mind today, but I’m afraid I didn’t catch your name.”

He felt he could trust that stallion. “Comet Tail. And this little guy next to me is Spike.”

“Hi.” Said the drake while waving his claw.

The pegasus nodded. “My name’s Thunderlane.”
“So… Thunderlane before you leave with my belongings you should probably know
that they’re expected at Golden Oak Library.”

“I will take that into consideration.” Replied the stallion teasingly and flew up with the heavy load as though it was nothing. After a few seconds he was nowhere to be seen.

“See, at least one good thing happened today.” Said Spike.
“Yeah, let’s hope it’s not the only one.”

He turned his gaze to the dragon “What else is there?”
Dragon checked the list again “We need to pay a visit to somepony known as Time Turner. He is in charge of the Town Hall’s clock.”

After a few questions both of them made their way towards said pony’s workshop.
It was a rather spacious building with sizeable telescope sticking out of the roof.

They knocked on the door. No answer. This encouraged the duo to enter on their own. They had an important task after all.

The inside was mainly illuminated by different contraptions sitting inside. The owner however was nowhere in sight.

“Coming!” They heard a distinctively masculine voice. Shortly after a pony emerged from the shadows. It was an earth pony stallion with grayish amber coat and dark gamboge mane.

“What brings you two into my humble estate?”

“My name’s Comet Tail. I’m Princess Celestia personal protege and I’ve been sent manage a few things. Including the performance of Town’s Hall clock.”

“Our first priority here is to keep the princess happy. Follow me please.”

Time Turner led them to a more spacious room with a humongous grandfather clock that resembled almost a small tower.

“I fixed the chimes but the pendulum needs to adjusted.”
“How long do reckon this will take you?”

Earth pony scratched his chin. “Hmm. I would say between two and three hours.”
“Sounds good enough for me.”

“Can I ask you about something Comet?”
“Uhm… Sure go ahead.’

“What is a personal protege of Princess doing in this middle of nowhere? If her majesty wanted to supervise she would’ve sent one of her trusted officials, not her favourite student.”

Comet thought for a moment. “Do you promise to keep your mouth shut.”

“I’m one of the ponies that would keep most of their knowledge to their graves. I’m rather greedy.”
“Her majesty is… concerned with my social skills. She believes that I need to make friends.”

Time Turner thought for a moment. “She raises a good point, you know. The wisest scholars usually have the best connections.”

Unicorn chuckled. “Yeah It’s just that… I have a hard time trusting ponies. I used to be a little gullible and…” Comet sighed. “I paid a price.

“I think I somehow understand.”Replied the earth pony. “I used to be mercilessly bullied in school and closed myself to other ponies but then…” He paused for a moment and smiled slightly. “I met somepony. Somepony who finally understood me. After that I finally got it. I got why ponies need friends, I’ve started making new acquaintances. You shouldn’t isolate yourself from others.”

Comet contemplated his words.

“Actually I do have one friend, although I never referred to her as such. Form me she was always a study-buddy.”
“She must be quite smart, if she impressed the protege of Celestia herself.”

“The smartest mare I know, except for her Highness of course.” He looked at the Time Turner. “Thank you.”

“What for?”
“I’ve never really talked to anypony about these kind of things, beside Spike over here and my mom. But you strike me as a reliable stallion, so thank you for listening to me.”

He smiled. “You’re welcome.”
Another thought entered Comet’s mind.

“Say… Do you perhaps make wristwatches?”
“I do. I take it you would like one?”

“Yeah, that would be nice.”
They both trotted towards other parts of the workshop.

When they finally arrived Time Turner pulled out a fancy looking wristwatch.
“The Chronometer, one of my favourite creations.”

Comet took his coin sack. “How much for that?”
“It’s on the house.”

Unicorn looked at him with disbelief. “Come, on I’m serious now. How much?”
“Nothing. You remind me of myself when I first settled here. I want you to have a better start than me.

Comet didn’t know how to respond to that expression of generosity.

“I’ll remember that.”
“Good to know.” Responded the earth pony.

With that the princess protege and his assistant parted ways with the inventor.

Frienship is Magic part 1

After some time Spike and Comet finally reached Golden Oak Library. It was an enormous hollowed out tree, with its natural tree holes repurposed as windows and doors.

“Good thing Thunderlane kept his promise.” Said Comet as he noticed his belongings laying next to the entrance doors.

“Man, I am hungry. I could really go for a slice of perhaps an apple pie.” Spike said trying to mess with his brother.

“After we’re done with research on Nightmare Moon we can even go for a hayburger with fries. Hmm? What do you say?”

“I’m down for that.” Said Spike.
Comet found the keys and opened the red door.

“I’m glad we understand each-”

“Surprise!!!”
The whole building shook from the roar. After initial shock Comet could make out a room full of different ponies. Some of them more familiar than others.

“Hey there!”

The unicorn turned his head to see a familiar earth pony with curly mane.

“It is me again Cheese Sandwich. I promised and I delivered. This will be the best party you ever-”
“How did you get in?” Comet asked both angrily and genuinely curious. “I just picked up the keys from the mayor. Did you break in with a lock pick or something.

“Pfft! Hahaha!” Stallion laughed heartily. “You’re a natural! Lock pick, haha… I just know a few ponies who know ponies. You catch my drift?” He put his arm around a Comet like an old friend.

Scowl didn’t leave the unicorn’s face. “So you just have contacts with local key makers?” He asked, while removing Cheese’s arm.

“Eeeeh.. yeah pretty much.” Admitted the stallion. “But it doesn’t sound nearly as fun.”
“I think we might have a different definition of fun.”

Cheese sandwich however wasn’t the only pony he recognised. There was Braeburn with his cousin as well as Soarin and thunderlane. The latter conversing with some cyan, rainbow - maned mare. The former watched them from afar with a straight face but Comet could have sworn there was some kind of emotion brewing under it.

The gray stallion finally noticed the unicorn and waved to him.
“Comet, over here!”
The protege trotted towards the pegasus, wanting to change the current company.
“Have fun with your friend!” Cheese shouted as he walked away.

“What’s up with that guy?” Comet asked Thunderlane.
“That’s Cheese Sandwich, he is the new part planner in town. Probably wanted to start his debut here with somepony important. Perhaps a certain student of Her Highness,who was rumored to have appeared in the city.”

Thunderlane waved his hoof. “But enough about him. There’s somepony I want to introduce you to.”
“I’m content to mingle with anypony but him.

The cyan mare from earlier approached again.
“Comet this is my former subordinate Rainbow Dash. Dash this is Comet Tail, Celestia’s personal protege.”

The mare whistled. “Well, what is big shot such as yourself doing in middle of nowhere like Ponyville.”

Comet chuckled. “I wouldn’t call this place a middle of nowhere but to answer your question I was sent here to supervise the preparations.”

“Are they up to Canterlot standards?”
“more or less.”

The mare seemed vaguely familiar but Comet couldn’t quite put his hoof on it. That hair…

“Everything okay with Fluttershy? Haven’t seen her in a while.” Asked Thunderlane.
“She couldn’t make it because she is still working with her birds but other than that it’s fine. You know how she is.”

That was when it finally hit him.

“You’re a wonderbolt?!”

She smiled mischievously.
“Took you long enough.”

“I’m not really a pegasus so you’ve got to cut me some slack there.”
“I’ll consider doing that in the future.” Rainbow Dash said teasingly.

“Who’s that?” Spike suddenly asked. Comet looked toward the direction his brother pointed. His attention was focused on white unicorn mare with indigo mane. He had to admit that the mare was easily one of the most attractive he’s ever seen.

“That’s Rarity.” Replied Thunderlane. “Our local seamstress and fashion designer. I would say the level of her craft does not differ from that of the Canterlot tailors.”

“She’s gorgeous.” The young reptile said, absolutely enamored.

Thunderlane laughed amused. “Why don’t you go and tell her that?”
“You think?” There was pliable doubt in the dragon’s voice.

“From all the years that I’ve known her I can tell you she’s one of the nicest ponies I’ve met.” Added the dark stallion.

Spike took a deep breath.
“Wish me luck.”

With that he walked towards the mare, trying to make himself look as laid-back as possible.

“Isn’t she a little too old for him?” Asked Comet.
“Let him have it.” Said Rainbow Dash. “haven’t you had a crush on somepony older than you?”

He thought for a moment.
“I had.”

“Do you want to elaborate further?” Rainbow-maned mare asked with a smirk.

The unicorn sighed. “Why, our highness herself, of course.”
The two other ponies looked at him weirdly.

“That’s … interesting, couldn’t say I had a crush on Ms. Figgy as a colt though.” Said the pegasus stallion.
Rainbow winced slightly at the thought.

“Well, how old was she when you started school?” Asked Comet.
“56.” Replied Thunderlane.

“Celestia was probably even older than that and yet she remains one of the most beautiful mares out there… and wise on top of that.”

Rainbow face turned to that of amusement. “Was it just a childhood crush? Or is there still something?”

Unicorn laughed. “Nah, I’ve grown past that. Now she’s more of a second mother to me.”

He glanced at where his little brother went. The young drake was trying his harder to flex the nonexistent muscles, which made the mare giggle. Comet subconsciously smiled at the sight.

The protege spent the remaining part time talking, mostly with Thunderlane. During these talks he learned that Cheese Sandwich is just passing through Ponyville. The usual party planning is left to the mare known as Pinkie Pie, who is rumored to be even more unorthodox in her behavior.
After it was all done Comet and Spike joined other ponies at the town hall to see the Princess and report to her that the assignment was completed. Something that even he himself didn’t expect.

The crowd started getting bigger and bigger over time. At a certain point there was almost no room to spare. Yellow pegasus mare was practicing with a flock of different birds. Comet learned from Tunderlane that she was Rainbow’s childhood friend, Fluttershy.

Mayor mare herself entered the spotlight

“Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!”

All of the ponies except Comet started cheering. He had a gut feeling that something was wrong. Mayor continued.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria…”

Fluttershy said something to the birds. After hearing the command they started humming a tune.

“Princess Celestia!”

The curtains fell down to show… nothing. Rarity, the pony closest to where Princess would be, exclaimed surprised.

Princess was nowhere to be seen. If Comet had to list the most important traits of Celestia, punctuality would be at the top. Nervous chatter arose.

“Maybe she forgot to take something?” Spike suggested, sounding unsure of his own words.
“Unlikely.” Replied the unicorn.

“Remain calm, everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation!” Mayor mare said, trying to soothe the crowd.

“She’s gone!” Rarity said in a concerned voice.

A purple starry blue mist started appearing on the balcony. After a few moments it formed into a tall, black alicorn, cladded in blue armor. Her tale and mane remained wispy and fog-like. Moon in it’s halfway point adorns her flank.

“Nightmare Moon.” Comet whispered.

“Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces.” Said the alicorn. Her voice filled the whole room, despite being rather calm.
“What did you do to Princess Celestia?!” Asked a voice that Comet recognized as Soarin. The stallion would throw himself at the mare if it wasn’t for Thundelane catching his tail with teeth.

“Easy there, buster.” He mumbled with difficulty as his subordinate wasn’t the weakest of ponies.

Alicorn laughed.
“Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am? “

“Ooh, ooh! I know!” That was the voice of Cheese Sandwich. “Hokey Smokes!”

“No!” The other voice sounded, this one clearly female, but Comet didn’t know to whom it belonged “It’s Queen Meanie!”

“Pfft! Of course not.” That was Cheese again. “That’s Black Snooty-”

“Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years?” Alicorn interrupted him.
“Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?”

“I did.” It was Comet’s time to speak up. “You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon!”

All the ponies either gasped or started talking amongst each other.

Alicorn smirked. “Well, well, well. Somepony who remembers me. Then you also know why I'm here.”

“You’re here to.. to..” Comet started having difficulties due to how scared he was.

Nightmare Moon chuckled. “ Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” She said, her ominous cackle filling the air.

Author's Note

I'm so sorry for not writting anything under the last author's not, I'm still trying to figure out that site.

Hello! I planed this story to be a rewrite of the whole series but with mane six as background stallions. Can't say it's fully my idea. I was inspired by the idea provided by SPB in their's "My Little Pony, Friendship is Magic: Stallion Edition." I haven't read it but liked the concept itself. Now I won't probably read it in a long time because I don't want it to influence my work. I want this to be my own thing.

you can read it here if you want though s/12727546/1/My-Little-Pony-Friendship-is-Magic-Stallion-Edition

Apart from the rewrites I will try to create original episodes, maybe even whole storylines. If you have any ideas, don't be shy to write to me about them in private messages. I can't promise I'll use all of them, however if I do I'll credit you.

And lastly don't be afraid to point out any grammatical mistakes. I'm from Central Europe and english is not my first language.

Have a nice day.

Friendship is Magic part 2

“Seize her!” Mayor Mare commanded the pegasi guards, mustering as much courage as she could. “Only she knows where the Princess is!”

They followed her order.

Nightmare Moon’s eyes shined a sinister glow.
“Stand Back you fools!” She said while releasing thunderbolts from her mane. All of them hit their targets rendering all of the guards useless. The terrifying mare then turned into mist and vanished into the dark night.

“Hey!” Soarin shouted. He followed the mist outside of Town Hall only to find out that she was faster than he expected.

“Come back! I’m not done with you just yet!” He blustered while being suspended in the air. The gravity of the situation started slowly getting through to him.

He turned his gaze to the ground. A lot of ponies running away from the hall, but only one attracted Soarin’s attention. The only one that knew the alicorn’s identity. A pale yellow pegasus with blue mane.

“And just where are you going?” The pegasus whispered to himself.
Back in the Golden Oak library a certain dragon was sleeping peacefully in his bed. It was understandable. He was a young specimen who spent most of the night partying. His brother on the other hoof was frantically flipping through different books.

“Come on now, there has to be a way to stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony.” He muttered to himself.

“Thought I’d find you here.”
Comet looked behind him to find Soarin giving him a stern look.

“If you want to borrow a book, come in when the fate of Equestria isn’t at stake.”
“How come you were the only pony that knew anything about the Nightmare Moon? That’s suspicious as hay.”

“I’ve read a book.” Replied Comet, a hint of cold in his voice. “You should give it a try sometime. I still have Spike’s old books. You would like them, a lot of pictures, almost no words.”

“I see. You’re a funny guy. I wonder if you will be able to joke around with only half of your teeth remaining.”

Before Comet could respond a third voice chimed in.

“Get a hold of yourself, Soar and use your head for crying out loud.” Boomed Thunderlane. Apart from him Braeburn, Time Turner and Cheese Sandwich gathered in the room.
“How could the protege of Celestia, or anypony at that matter, benefit from eternal darkness.”

Soarin muttered something to himself but calmed down.

“But the issue remains.” Thunderlane now turned to Comet. “If we are to help you need to share your knowledge with us.”

“ I second that.” Said Time Turner.

“Damn right!” Proclaimed Braeburn.

“Consider me a collateral damage in whatever we’re about to do.” Added Cheese Sandwich.

“Whatever.” Muttered Soarin

Comet took a good look at the gathered stallions. Quite an interesting crew they were. Unicorn chuckled.

“Alright. The only thing that can stop Nightmare Moon are the artefacts known as Elements of Harmony. The only problem is that I can’t find anything about what they are, what they do, or for that matter where-”

“What about ‘The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide?” Cheese Sandwich cut in.
“What? How did you find that?” Comet asked as he quickly appeared next to the earth pony.
“Simple, it was under E.”

Unicorn was impressed how quickly the party organizer found the exact type of book he was looking for. He pulled out the book with his magic and started flipping through the pages. Finally he found what they were looking for. Comet started reading out-loud.

“There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. It is said, the last known location of the five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now…” He stopped for a moment.

“What?” Asked Braeburn.

“The Everfree Forest.” Finished Comet
The whole room fell silent.

“Well…” Said Time Turner. “Either It’s either that or night eternal.”

“I couldn’t have said it better.” Added Thunderlane. “What are we waiting for?”

It took them about an hour to reach the dreaded woods. Comet has read about it before. A forest where ponies enter, but rarely leave. That was it. No turning back now.

“I take it none of you has ventured into this forest before?” All of the stallions gave either verbal or audial confirmation.

“Folks say this place ain’t natural. Clouds move on their own, animals take care of themselves. Some of them say that creatures living here remember when these lands were uninhabited by ponies.” Said Braeburn.

“Not to spoil the mood, but that’s not so long ago in the grand scheme of things.” Remarked Time Turner. “The town was founded, like what? 70 years ago?”

They now entered the area near the edge of the cliff.”

“Come on man I was trying to build an atmosphere and whatnot. No need to be such a killjoy.”
“Sorry for that. My work conditioned me to analyze everything.” Time Turner stopped in his tracks. His ears move slightly.
“We gotta get off the track.”

“What? Why-” Soarin started but before he could finish the ground collapsed under their hooves.

All of them except for pegasi started sliding down, quickly moving towards the edge.

“Soar, get moving!” Shouted Thunderlane and dived in. His light blue friend followed him. Them managed to catch Time Turner and Cheese Sandwich but Comet Tail and Braeburn kept on sliding.

Finally The earth pony managed to catch a protruding root with his teeth. The unicorn didn’t have as much luck.

If it weren’t for his reflexes Comet would’ve slid right down, but he managed to slow down and now only his lower half was hanging over the chasm.

“Hold on there, partner!” Braeburn shouted as he let go of the root, making his way to the unicorn.

“What are we going to do?” Asked Comet, clear desperation in his voice.
He noticed that Braeburn’s eyes shifted slightly.

“I’m going to stand here, you on the other hoof… will let go.”
Unicorn couldn’t believe his ears.

“You’re just going to let me die here?! Buck you!” Comet said, agitated.

“I promise on mah future foals and wife you’ll be fine. Honest to Faust” Said the earth pony.

There was something in his eyes. Something that Comet felt he could trust. He took a deep breath and let go.

He was falling. A whole world around him turned into a blur. His whole life flashed before his very eyes…

And then he stopped.

Looking around he noticed that he was being carried by Thunderlane and Soarin. He let out the air out of his lungs.

“You alright?” Shockingly enough it was Soarin who asked the question.
“Yeah… Thanks.” Replied Comet, taken aback by his behavior.

“Don’t sweat it, that’s what friends are for.”

They carried him down when they met with the rest of the group.

“You know you could’ve just told me Thunder and Soarin were there to catch me?” Comet told Braeburn with a hint of accusation.

The Cowpony cocked his hat slightly. “Ah know, but I had to make a point.”
Comet raised his eyebrow. “And what would that point be?”

Braeburn looked at him with a grin. “That Apples don’t lie.”

Comet thought for a moment. “Fair enough. But don’t keep me in the dark next time.”

Braeburn chuckled. “Let’s hope we’ll live to see the next time.”
And with that they continued their journey.

They walked for a few minutes in silence before the protege decided to break it.
“Soarin?”

“What is it?”
“Sorry for that remark in the library, you had a right to feel suspicious and what I did was uncalled for.”

The pegasus smirked. “It’s alright. I shouldn't have accused you like that.”
Comet nodded his head. It was all water under the bridge.

A deafening roar pierced their ears. All of them noticed a creature that resembled an enormous lion with horns, leather wings and scorpion tail.

“Manticore!” Exclaimed Time Turner. “Didn’t know they resided in these forests.”
“I got it!” Said Soarin and flew quickly towards the Manticore.

“Wait!” Shouted Thunderlane but to no avail. The blue pegasus avoided getting clawed and went for a kick in the jaw. His plan succeeded.

“Yeah!” He exclaimed happily, only to be smacked by the outer side of the paw. He hit the ground with such impact he practically plowed it.

“Soarin!” Yelled Braeburn.
The earth pony lowered his head and started galloping towards the beast.

“Wait!” Thunderlane’s pleas again fell on deaf ears.
The beast gave Braeburn the same treatment it gave Soarin, sending him to the nearest ditch.

“Alright!” Said Comet “I have an idea. Time Turner and Cheese wil try to tackle it head on, meanwhile Thunderlane and I-”

“I SAID WAIT!!!” Thunderlane roared almost as loud as the manticore. Everypony was shocked by the pegasus’s sudden change in demeanor.

“Let me try it.” He said much calmer, now that he noticed they were listening.

He turned towards the beast and walked in its direction slowly.
“Hey there buddy.” He tried to avoid looking directly in Manticore’s eyes while trying to keep an eye on the beast as a whole. there was always a possibility it would attack.

“Bad day huh? Some weirdos walk into your home uninvited and make noise. I would be grouchy too.”

Now he was practically a hoof away from the monster. Taking a look at its front paws he noticed the thorn in one of them.

“I see.” He whispered to himself. “Alright this might hurt a little.”
Before anypony could say anything he grabbed the thorn in his teeth and plucked it in one fluid motion.

Manticore roared so loud that the Castle of Two Sisters probably shook. The still standing three, instinctively rushed to the rescue only to see…

The beast nuzzling Thunderlane. Quite like a mother nuzzles her young.
The pegasus laughed. “Aww, you’re just a big baby aren’t you.”

Comet and the other two stallions used that to put Soarin and Braeburn back on their hooves.
“Oh Nelly.” The earth pony said. “I hope AJ will spare me for at least a day when I’ll be back to bucking apples.

“How did you know there was a thorn in its paw?” Comet asked Thunderlane, when the latter freed himself from the monster’s affection.
“It was limping.” Replied Thunderlane. “Sometimes you just have to show a little bit of empathy and the problem will solve itself.”

As they continued marching forward the vegetation was getting more and more dense.

“Why did it get so dark all of sudden? It’s not my mind acting up on me right?” Asked Soarin.
“Trees seem to grow closer to each other in this part of the forest. It doesn’t help that their crowns seem to be wider than usual.” Explained Time Turner.

“It’s so dark that the ruins could be right in front of us and we wouldn’t have noticed.” Comet said out loud begrudgingly.
“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.” Thunderlane comforted him.

“Uhmm, fellas?” Asked Braeburn.
Although the earth pony didn’t specify his answer everypony knew what he meant. The trees. All of them had faces. Terribly contorted faces with crooked teeth.

Although Soarin didn’t like talking about it, this was one of the few times when he was afraid. Not in the same way as you’re afraid in life-or-death situations. It was more of a…

Terror.

Like there was something fundamentally wrong with this part of the forest. None of the stallions said anything but the feeling was shared among most of them. But not all.
“Maybe we should look for some other way?” Suggested Thunderlane, cold sweat trickling down from him.

A laugh sounded in the air.

They turned their heads to see… Cheese Sandwich laughing at one of these uncanny looking trees.
“Oh man, this one reminds me of my uncle Big Cheese, What’s up with these silly looking trees?”

He started trotting forward.

“Wait a minute!” Said Braeburn. Cheese looked at him. “You sure it’s a good idea to follow this path?”

Cheese Shrugged his arm. “Probably. Not like these trees can hurt us in any way.”

They still looked somewhat unsure but started following the party pony.
“Oh, I almost forgot. Why did the tree go to the dentist?” He asked.

Nopony answered.
“Why?” Asked Comet.

“Because it needed a root canal.”

A few snickers could be heard. Although dry, the joke definitely played a part in loosening up the atmosphere. They started telling other types of jokes and before they knew it the fear completely vanished. Instead it was completely replaced by the humorous atmosphere brought on by Cheese.

A body of water could’ve been heard by the team. Quite a restless one on top of that.
Apart from that all of them could make out something similar to…crying?

No, bawling their eyes would’ve been a more suitable description.

As the group got close they saw a river, currents of which were too strong to pass by hoof.

“I suppose you didn’t bring any portable bridges, Time Turner?” Thunderlane asked.
“Your assessment is correct. I only have the most basic of tools.”

“What a world, what a world!” A mysterious cry could be heard.
The group took a look at where the voice was coming from.

After a short walk they finally found the source. It was a purple sea serpent with orange hair and a mustache. The uneasiness of the stream was caused by his weeping.

As there was no other way, Comet decided to address the issue.
“Hello there sir?”

The monster stopped crying for a moment to look at them. His eyes were red and puffy.

“Is there any particular reason why you keep crying? You see, me and my friends would really like to cross that river and-”

He started wailing again.
“I-I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid.”

Another series of sobs.

“That’s what all the fuss is about?” Braeburn asked angrily.
“I second that.” Said Comet. “You can’t just inconvenience other creatures because something didn’t go your way, I-”

“Wait!” Time Turner interrupted him. “I might have an idea.”

He rummaged through his bag. After a brief moment he pulled out a shaving razor.

“What is he doing?” Soarin asked, confused.

The earth pony inventor cut off a huge portion of his tail, much to everyone’s horror.

“Comet, a little help here?” Time Turner asked.

Unicorn immediately understood what the other one was talking about. With the help of magic he bound his friend’s tail to what used to be a serpent's mustache.

“Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful.” The monster said, a smile instantly gracing his muzzle.

“See? You look as stylish as before.” The scientist said politely.

“Alright.” Comet said. “We can continue, the river is passable.”
But before he could set a hoof in the water a row of purple scaly coils protruded upwards.

“Allow me.” The Serpent said gratefully. Unicorn and his friends thanked him for help and finally crossed the stream.

After wandering for a few more minutes they finally saw their destination.

“There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it!” Comet said and started galloping towards it.

“Slow down there partner!” Shouted Braeburn.

“Come on, guys if we don’t hurry- Woah!” Unicorn had to stop abruptly right before entering the bridge. One of the anchors on the other side was torn off.

“What is it with you and falling off cliffs today?” Comet turned to see a grinning Soarin and the rest of his friends.
“Har-har.” Unicorn said sarcastically yet he couldn’t shake off the feeling that this was some kind of karma for his earlier remarks.

“You guys wait here. I have it covered.” Blue pegasus said cockily and flew to the other side.

But before he could tighten the rope, his ear caught a peculiar sound.

“Soarin…”

He turned around instantly. “Show yourself!” Stallion exclaimed.
The only response he got was a giggle.

Soarin furrowed his brow. “You have ten seconds before I drag you out of that fog!”

“We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria.”

He did not expect that answer.
“Who?”

“Why, you of course you.” Replied the voice.

“Really? I mean… yes! Of course! Quick question. You wouldn’t mind telling that to the Wonderbolts, would ya? I’m trying to get into their ranks for like… forever.”

“No Soarin.” Three mysterious ponies walked out of the shadows. All of them were pegasi wearing tight purple spandex suits with black patches on head and hooves.
“We want you to join us, the Shadowbolts. We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain. The most magnificent... “

“Yeah.”

“Swiftest…”

“Aha.”

“Bravest flyer in all the land.”

“Yes.” He chuckled, blushing slightly. “It’s all true

“We need… you.”
“Wohoo!” Soarin made a barrel roll from excitement. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal.”

“No!” The pegasus in the suit got really close to Soarin. “It’s them or us!”

“No rush Soarin! It’s not like the fate of Equestria is at stake or anything!” Comet shouted, irritated by how much time it took.

He noticed other ponies standing next to their pegasus friend. “Soarin! Don’t listen to them!”
As if triggered by something, clouds became more dense, making them invisible to see through.

“Well?”
“You…”

The Shadowbolts smiled.
“...Have got to be born yesterday if you think I would abandon my friends for somepony I just met.”

With that he tied the loose rope and Shadowbolts turned into purple smoke.
Rest of the group crossed the bridge safely.

“You had us pretty scared back there.” Said Thunderlane. “Not that I doubted you.”
“Of course.” Soarin replied teasingly.

Everypony in the group laughed from the exchange.

They finally arrived. The Castle of Two Sisters stood in front of them, or at least what was left of it.

Doors started crumbling as soon as Comet pushed them. In the main hall there was an enormous stone erected from the ground. It looked like a cross between an astrolabe and a fountain. There were five orbs attached to five different arms. Shape of a gem sculpted on all of them.

“At last. The Elements of Harmony.” Said Comet. Thunderlane and Soarin immediately started detaching the orbs and putting them on the ground.

“Careful.” The protege said almost instinctively. Soon enough all of them were laying on the ground unscathed.

“That’s five. Where’s the sixth one?” Asked Cheese Sandwich.
“The book said: when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed.” Answered Comet.

“What in the hay is that supposed to mean?” Inquired the apple farmer.
“I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen.”

He kneeled on the ground and sparked his horn.

“Come on y’all he needs to concentrate.” Braeburn told the rest of the squad. They did as they were asked.

Now it was just Comet, his magic and the elements.

Or at least he thought so.

While he kept his eyes closed the orbs started to spin. Slowly at first but soon enough they gained speed. Enough to create a small purple tornado.

Comet opened his eyes.
“No! The elements!”

Against his better judgment he jumped into the swirl.
A few seconds later both him and whirlwind disappeared.

“Comet!” Braeburn shouted as he entered to see his friend disappear in a twister. The rest joined shortly after.

The unicorn head was spinning as he opened his eyes. He didn’t know where he was, but he had an idea how he got here.

The elements, tornado. It had to teleport him here.
His thoughts were interrupted by a laugh.

He looked in front of him to see the Nightmare Moon levitating the elements.

This was bad, real bad. Nevertheless a plan started forming in his mind.

He stamped his right front hoof and lowered his head.

“You’re kidding right?” Nightmare Moon asked in a clearly mocking way.

He ignited his horn and started galloping straight at the black alicorn.

She decided to repay in kind.

Good she was right where he wanted her to be.

When he was about a hoof length from her, his horn shined and teleported him where the elements were.

“Come on, just one spark.” Comet whispered as he tried triggering the reaction with every ounce of his.

Suddenly he heard a crack and a great force sent him flying across the room.

When he opened his eyes again he saw the elements radiating by his aura.
“No, It can’t be!” She shouted, feeling panic.

As these words left her mouth, the Comet’s magic vanished.

“I-I don’t understand. This should’ve unlocked the sixth element.” He said mostly to himself.

The response he got was his enemy’s laughter.

She stomped her on the ground, shattering the elements into many pieces.

“You little foal! Thinking you could defeat me? Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever!” Exclaimed Nightmare Moon euphorically.

The elements were destroyed. His only hope shattered.

“Get away from him you millenia-old hag!”

Comet turned his head and saw not only Soarin taunting the alicorn but also all of his friends.

That’s when it hit him.

“You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that? Well, you're wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here.”

Some new kind of magic started levitating the shattered remains.

“What?” Nightmare Moon asked confused.

“Braeburn, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty!”
Necklace with an orange, apple-shaped crystal formed on the farmer's neck.

“Thunderlane, who tamed the manticore with his compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness!”
His necklace’s gem looked like a pink cloud.

“Cheese Sandwich, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter!
Gem that formed on his throat looked like a cut in half bread and had a blue color.

“Time Turner, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity!
His stone looked like a purple hourglass.

“And last but not least, Soarin who could not abandon his friends for his own heart's desire represents the spirit of... loyalty!
What formed under the pegasu’s chin looked like a red thunderbolt.”

Comet was grinding confidently.
“The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us.”

“You still don't have the sixth Element! The spark didn't work!” Nightmare Moon said, now visibly afraid.

“But it did! A different kind of spark…” Comet turned to his companions with a smile. .They were smiling back or nodding
“I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all…”

He returned his gaze to the alicorn.
“Are my friends!”

A sixth orb appeared above the Comet’s head.
“You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth element…”

The orb transformed into a crown with a purple gem that looked like a five-pointed star.

“The element… of magic!”

All six of them started levitating, their elements glowing.
Shortly after the beams from their necklaces (and crown) combined into one that had all of their colors, making it look like a rainbow.

“Nooo!” Nightmare Moon steamed helplessly as the ray engulfed her.

After that everything went white

“Ugggh…” Mumbled Thunderlane opening his eyes. Pain piercing his cranium
“Is everypony fine?”

The rest of the stallions gave their verbal confirmations.

“Wow!” Soarin exclaimed. “Check this out, I have a necklace that looks like my cutiemark.”
Pegasus puffed his chest proudly.

“Looks like you’re not the only one.” Said Time Turner examining his own element.

“Gee Comet! I thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship.” Said proudly.

“Indeed you do.”
Everpony turned their head to the direction of the voice.

They saw a rising sun and from it’s shine, a very familiar alicorn appeared.

“Princess Celestia!” Shouted Comet and galloped to hug his teacher.
She lowered her head to nuzzle him motherly.
The rest of the stallions were bowing before the princess of the sun.

“My faithful student. I knew you could do it”
“But... you told me it was all an old pony tale.”

“I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna!”

They all turned their heads to where Nightmare Moon used to be. The evil alicorn was now much smaller and had a lighter shade of blue as her coat. Her armor was shattered. She gasped, clearly afraid of her white counterpart.

Celestia walked towards her and kneeled down, looking at her with a warm smile.
“It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister.”

“Sister?” Asked Soarin clearly shocked.

“Will you accept my friendship?” Sun princess extended her hoof.

She was met with a strong hug from the smaller alicorn.

“I'm so sorry! I missed you so much, big sister!” Both of them had wet eyes.
“I missed you too, Lulu.” Celestia replied with cracking voice.

They weren’t the only one crying. Comet and the rest also had tears in their eyes.

“Hey.” Cheese Sandwich broke the silence. “You know what this calls for?”

It was finally over. Nightmare Moon was defeated, Luna took up the position of the second royal sister and all of them came back alive.

Ponyville was celebrating. Ponies were cheering, tables were cracking form the amount of food and confetti was everywhere.

It was also a time of reunions. As soon as Comet entered he was hugged by a certain smalls dragon.

“I missed you bro.” Said Spike.
“I missed you too buddy.” Replied Comet and hugged Spike back. This level of affection was rare among them.

But Spike wasn’t the only one waiting. Once Thunderlane appeared he immediately deflated as something small and gray hit him with tremendous force.

When he looked down he saw a colt with a lighter coat than him and a black mane combed backwards. His purple eyes were red from crying.

“Thunde-r-r I-I thought t-that y-you…” His words were cut off by the sobs.

Thunderlane hugged the smaller colt back.
“It’s ok, bro. I’m alive. Whatever happens I will be always waiting for you.”
Rumble looked at him with tery eyes.
“
T-thanks. But don’t tell anyone I cried, ok?”

Older pegasus laughed and raised his right hoof.
“I swear I won’t tell anypony.”

Comet smiled at the sight of affection but his muzzle quickly turned sour.

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

He sighed.
“That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them.”

The Princess of the Sun chuckled warmly.
“Spike, take a note, please. I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Comet Tail shall take on a new mission for Equestria. He must continue to study the magic of friendship. He must report to me his findings from his new home in Ponyville.”

Young unicorn hugged his mentor again.

“Oh, thank you, thank you so much princess.”

He will stay there in Ponyville, where his friends are.

Or at least most of them.

Author's Note

We can finally enter the main meat of the story. I didn't mention it earlier but the rewritten episodes probably won't come out exactly in the chronological order, just so you know.

I would also like to say that in the furture I probably won't update as often as now. It will probably be one chapter every week.

Next chapter will be focused on Rumble. I like his character, pity he was on screen so rarely.

Have a nice day.

Stare Master

The sound of the alarm clock rang through the air, much to the dismay of a certain colt,who turned it off with one smooth motion.

He opened his purple eyes and rubbed them to get rid of the dried up mucus.
A sudden knock on the door caught his attention.

It was followed by Thunderlane opening the doors.
“Rise and shine sleeping beauty, breakfast is downstairs!”

After mumbling something under his breath and taking care of himself in the bathroom, Rumble walked downstairs.

There he found a plate of fried eggs, hay bacon and toast. His older brother was already consuming what was on his plate.

“You know I asked for a bag of Happy Hoops for a reason right?” The colt asked his brother accusingly.
“Breakfast is supposed to keep you going throughout the day. You need carbohydrates and vitamins, a bowl of sweets with milk is not gonna cut it.”

Rumble rolled his eyes and started snacking on his breakfast angrily. They ate like this for a minute until Thunderlane decided to break the silence.

“I should probably tell you now that the sleepover with you friends is not gonna happen today.”

“Huh?! W-why?!” The colt asked, sounding genuinely hurt.
“There’s been an emergency at the Cloudsdale factory and they need every extra pair of hooves.”

“But you work at the weather patrol, not at the factory!”
“We have to listen to the same ponies and these ponies are saying that the whole weather patrol is needed for help.”

“I thought you were the head of the weather patrol.” Said Rumble little spitefully.
“Doesn’t mean I don’t have a boss.” Replied Thunderlane.

The older of the brothers sighed as they left the table.

“I’m sorry that it turned out like that. I promise that by the end of the next month we will have enough bits to go to that Wonderbolts show in Canterlot, huh?” He nudged his little brother playfully but Rumble didn’t respond.

“Come on.” Said Thunderlane. “We have to get going, if you don’t want to be late for the first class.”

“Who was the most well known pegasus prior to the founding of Equestria, hmm?” Cheerilee asked, looking around the classroom. Featherweight’s hoof shot out instantly.

“Rumble?” She asked the gray colt.
“Huh?” He asked, distracted by the other thoughts.
“Who was the most well known pegasus prior to the founding of Equestria?”

“Uhmm… Dandelion the daring?” He asked unsure.
She shook her head. “He died 800 years ago, but he was definitely a pony to remember.”

Featherweight was practically vibrating in his seat.
Cheerilee laughed.

“Alright, Featherweight, can you tell us?”
“General Cyclone, he aided Gusty the Great during the final battle. That’s when he was sealed away.”

The teacher smiled and nodded her head. “That’s right Featherweight, you’re getting an A for studiousness today.

Rumble didn’t care. All he could think about was the fact that he, Pipsqueak and Button Mash will have to postpone their game night.

He was absorbed by these thoughts until the bell rang. All the colts and fillies scattered into different directions.

The pegasus felt alone.
That was until a smaller earth pony colt approached him. He had a white coat with brown spots.

“Hiya Rumble!”
“Hi Pip!” He replied with a much sadder tone.

“Why the long face?” Asked Pipsqueak.
“Because there won’t be a sleepover tonight.” Rumble replied angrily. “Thunderlane’s boss called yesterday to tell him that they need more ponies to work on something.”

“Oh.” The earth pony said slightly deflated. “That’s a pity, but on the bright side Mash is laying in bed sick. At least one of us won’t be disappointed.”

But before the two of them could start brooding, a unicorn filly walked up to them. She had a pale violet coat and a blonde mane.

“Hi Rumble! Hi Pip!”

“Hi Dinks.”
“What’s up Dinky?” Pipsqueak asked, his voice a little higher than he planned.

“Oh nothing. It’s just that I don’t have any plans this weekend and I wondered if we could do something together… you know?” She asked sounding a little unsure.

“YES! I mean…” The earth pony blushed slightly “If that’s cool with your sister of course.”
“Oh don’t worry about it! Ditzy love when I bring home my friends. She says it helps me… umm? What’s the word?”

“Socialize?” Suggested Rumble.
“Yeah that’s the word.” The filly giggled. “What about you Rumble, you want to hang out with us?”

“Nah, I’ll pass. I’m not really in the mood.”
“Why?” Asked Dinky.

“Because me Rumble and Button Mash were supposed to have a sleepover.” Answered Pipsqueak. “Gaming from dusk till dawn.”

“Huh…” Unicorn filly thought for a moment. “What if we have a sleepover at my place?”
“Really?” Pipsqueak asked, his tail wagging slightly. “Are you sure Miss Doo won’t mind?”

“I’m sure. We originally planned to invite over the Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo but they already have something planned this weekend.

Dinky and Pipsqueak looked at Rumble.
“I might not be as big of a gamer as Button but I still have a GameCube with a few titles, hmm?” Said the unicorn

The colt sighed. He didn’t have anything better to do. What was there to loose?

“Ok, I’ll go.”
“Yay!” The unicorn-earth pony duo exclaimed.

But before they could plan any further the school bell rang, forcing them to start a new class with Cheerilee.

“Did you take your toothbrush?” Thunderlane asked Rumble
“Yeah.”

“Shampoo?”
“Yup.”

“Preening comb?”
“I don’t plan to really fly anywhere.”

“It’s better to be prepared.”

Before they both left the home with Rumble’s bags Thunderlane turned to look his younger brother in the eyes

“Ditzy is a kind mare but she has self-esteem issues. Don’t think of taking advantage of that. When she tells you it’s bedtime, you and all your friends hop in your bunks and snooze. Am I making myself clear?”

“Crystal.” Replied Rumble. He didn’t like telling him that but Thenderlane could’ve been really intimidating when he wanted to.

“Good. Looks like you’ll be getting your sleepover after all.” The older pegasus smiled.
“Yeah I guess.”

Thunderlane closed the door and both of them took flight.

After a few minutes of flight both pegasus brothers were at their destination. A rustic one storey house at the southern edge of the town.

The older of the brothers used his front hoof to knock.

“Coming!” Came the reply.

After a few seconds the door was opened by a gray pegasus mare with blonde mane and crossed, golden eyes.

Thunderlane smiled “Sorry Ditzy but it looks like another foal is joining this party.”
The mare giggled.

“I’ll happily take him from here.” The wall-eyed mare said playfully roughing up the colt’s mane. Rumble didn’t mind it though, he always liked Dinky’s older sister.

Well, the oldest sister. He never really had a chance to meet Amethyst Heart but he heard she was pretty smart.

“Alright now that everything is settled I better get going. Wouldn’t want to keep Rapid Wind waiting. Have fun you all.”
With that the dark pegasus flew away, disappearing behind the clouds.

As Ditzy closed the door a sweet fragrant immediately hit Rumble’s nose.
“What is that smell?” Asked the colt.

The mare smiled.
“These are blueberry muffins. Go tell Dinky and Pipsqueak that They will be ready in five minutes. You’re free to join us as well of course.

After the delicious lunch the foals returned to Dinky’s room. Despite playing for a few hours on the GameCube, all of them unanimously agreed that they should try out some of the older sleepover games

“Big dragon emigration?” Asked Rumble unsure.
Dinky shook her head violently and continued gesturing. The only thing that the colts knew for sure was the fact that it was three words and had to do with moving.

“Internal Tectonic movement?” Asked Pipsqueak with lack of confidence.

The filly shook her head again but before she could continue her pantomime the stopwatch had rang.

The colts groaned.
“So what was it?” Inquired Pipsqueak.

“The Grand Galloping Gala.” Dinky said proudly. “I would like to go there at least once.”

“Sounds boring.” Said Rumble. “A bunch of aristocrats talking about how their days went.”
“Not true at all!” Dinky said defensively. “There are also the greatest sportsponies in Equestria. As well as inventors and the most skilled conjurers.”

Rumble shrugged his arms. “Wonderbolts seem like the only interesting ones there and they don’t eve perform as far as I’m concerned.”

Before the unicorn could open her mouth to retort Pipsqueak decided to interject.

“You know I don’t think you’re looking at this fair Rumble.”
The pegasus colt cocked his eyebrows.

“What do you mean?” He asked.
“I’m not really interested in Wonderbolts or competitive flying, but you don’t see me putting you down for liking them. We can both like different things and respect each other.”

Rumble thought about his words.
“You’re right.” He sighed and turned to Dinky.

“I’m sorry for that. I think the anger at my brother made my attitude a little less pleasant.”

The filly waved her hoof. “Don’t sweat it. I often argue with Ditzy but that doesn;t make me love her any less.”

“Really?” Asked Pipsqueak. “I always thought you two argue way less than Apple Bloom and Applejack.

“Ehh, not really we just do it when nopony’s watching.”
Before they could discuss the issue any further the doorbell rang downstairs.
“Did you invite anypony else?” Rumble asked Dinky, confused.
“Nope, just the two of you.” Replied filly.

All three of them walked downstairs only to see Ditzy opening the door. A very familiar pony stood in the frame.

“Time Turner?” Asked Rumble, not expecting to see his brother’s friend.
“Hi there kids.” He said to all three of them. “I hope you three are having a splendid slumber party.

“You could say that.” Replied Dinky. “But I hope you don’t plan to join us, this is foals only party. No adults!”

The stallion chuckled at the remark.

“Time Turner is here to fix the stove, which he will need peace and quiet.” Ditzy said.

She looked at the clock which made her muzzle turn serious.
“Therefore I will ask the three of you to go to bed. You don’t need to go to sleep if you don’t want to, just don’t really walk around. ok?”

“But it’s not even that late anyway!” Protested Dinky.
“You guys are still just foals and need a full night of sleep.” Replied Ditzy

“Help me out guys!” The little unicorn turned to her friends.

“I think Miss Doo has a point.” Said Pipsqueak.
Dinky’s brow furrowed.

“What about you Rumble?” She asked the other colt with a slight glimmer of hope.
The young pegasus shrugged his arms.

“I don’t want to get in trouble.”
Ditzy breathed out a sigh of relief.

“You could learn from your friends Dinky.” Said the pegasus mare.
The filly glared at her two companions

“Are you still mad at me?”
The unicorn filly didn’t respond.

“Come on, I thought we were friends.” Pipsqueak moaned
“Friends don’t stab each other in the back at the first available opportunity.”

“I didn’t stab you in the back, I just didn’t want to anger your sister.” The earth pony said with a hint of sadness in his voice. “Can’t we just go back to being friends again?”

“Can you guys keep it quiet? I’m trying to sleep here!” Hissed Rumble.
The sudden laugh reverberated downstairs.

All three of them were confused.
Before anyone could say anything Dinky opened the door quietly.

“What are you doing?” Whispered Pipsqueak. His female friend ignored him.

Instead she decided to leave the room completely and take a good listen of the talk.

“-And then he told me that was his grandmother!” This voice definitely belonged to Time Turner.

Dinky heard a laugh punctuated by snorts. Ditzy laughed like that only when she found something really funny.

Gradually the laughter began to quiet down. Time Turner took a breath.

“So, umm… thanks for the coffee but I think it’s time for me to get going.”
“Do you really need to go now?”

Young filly heard disappointment in her sister’s voice. She usually spoke in that tone when Dinky failed at something school-related.

“I’m afraid so. The Everfree Forest is constantly changing. There is a possibility that the samples taken tomorrow might be completely different from the ones taken today.”

“I guess you’re right…” Filly could tell that her older sister felt hurt. “Doctor?”
“Hmm?”

“Thanks.”
“For what?”
“Everything.”

The room was filled with silence.

“You’re welcome.”
A moment later she heard the sound of a door closing. Ditzy could be heard sighing

“Are you nuts?” She turned her head to see a terrified Pipsqueak. “You can’t eavesdrop on adults.”

“Did you hear what he said?” Filly asked him, ignoring his previous remark.
“N-no. I usually try not to disobey.”

“He said he’s going to the Everfree forest, probably to do some nerd stuff.” Said Rumble emerging from the shadows.

“It doesn’t matter what he said, it’s none of our business.” Replied the earth pony.

“On the contrary. Did you hear the way Ditzy was talking to him?”
“What about it?” Asked Rumble

“She’s clearly distraught about him leaving. How do you think she will react if something happens to him there?”

“Oh no…” Said Pipsqueak sensing where this was going.

“We need to follow him and make sure that he’s okay.” Announced Dinky.
“Sounds… pretty fun actually.” Rumble said, smirking.
“What if Ditzy catches us?” Asked the earth pony.

“She’s the heaviest sleeper I’ve ever known.” Replied the unicorn. “We’ll be back before she even knows it.

Pipsqueak thought about it for a moment. Then he took a deep breath
“In and out?”

Dinky smiled. “In and out.”

A quarter past midnight and the Ponyville mailmare was deep in her sleep. Three foals started making their way through the window. First Rumble helped Dinky by transporting her to the ground. The filly then used her telekinesis to move Pipsqueak.

“You’re all good?” Asked the unicorn.
Both of her friends nodded their heads.

“Then let’s make sure that Time Turner will make it out of these woods.” She said, smirking.
With that all three of them disappeared into the night.

Ditzy woke up roughly an hour later.
While rubbing her eyes with one hoof, she helped herself with the other.

For one filly and two colts, the first floor was quieter than she anticipated.

A little too quiet.

She went upstairs to check up on them. No harm in making sure they’re all safe and sound.

The mare delicately pushed the door which gave up without much of a struggle.

She opened the door only to see an empty bed and mattresses.
Her heart sank.

“D-dinky?!” She decided to start calling them. “Pipsqueak?! Rumble?! This isn’t funny guys!”

While looking around Ditzy finally noticed an opened window. She looked out of it.
The ground under the window was filled with tracks.

Tracks of the three small equines. All of them were leading to the Everfree forest.

“Oh no.” Ditzy muttered to herself.

“So… How much further do we need to go?” Asked Rumble. “My legs are going to give out.”
“We’re going till we find Time Turner, quit your whining.” Dinky replied, disgruntled.

“I think Rumble might have a point.” Said Pipsqueak. “If we tire ourselves now we will never find him.”

“What else are we supposed to do?” Asked the unicorn. “Sit on our flanks and wait for him to find us?”

“No. I think the best we can do now is go back north and look for Time Turner there. He didn’t mention going into the heart of the forest, so there’s a high probability he’s still somewhere in the northern region.” Said Pipsqueak.

“That… sounds like a good idea. Look at you go.” Dinky smiled and nudged him playfully. The colt returned the smile and blushed.

“It’s all cool but there’s one problem. How do we know which way is north?” Asked Rumble.

Dinky turned her head up and intensely stared at the starry sky. She squinted her eyes.

“We need to go in this direction.” Said filly while pointing her hoof.
“How do you know?” Asked Rumble.

The unicorn then pointed her hoof to the sky.

“This over there is Big Dipper. When you find the two stars at the end of the handle draw a line through them and extend it about four times the length of the line. Then you’ll find Polaris. It’s quite bright and hard to miss.” Said Dinky.

“Where did you get that knowledge?” Inquired Pipsqueak.

The filly waved her hoof. “Ehh, it’s just something that Time Turner told me once. That plus he lent me his book about stars.”

“Wow, that’s cool!” Exclaimed the earth pony. Dinky reddened slightly.
“Thanks.”

And all three of them walked towards the direction designated by the unicorn filly.

Ditzy tore through the scrub mercilessly. No branch or bush was spared.

These three poor foals they’re probably starving. They're must be cold and without an adult in this unforgiving forest.

She had to find them. Not only from the moral obligation but also because Thunderlane and Miss Chestnut will tear her apart otherwise.

After a few minutes she noticed a shape far away from her.

Approaching, she realized she recognized who it was.

“Oh Doctor, it’s so good to see you. You won’t believe what happened…”
She stopend not only because he didn’t respond to her but also because he didn't move at all.

Finally after getting close enough she comprehended why it was.

Time Turner was a statue. Cold, unresponsive piece of stone.

She knew all the sculptors from Ponyville and none of them lived in this area, which meant only one thing.

“It must be nearby.”

“I think I’m starting to recognize these trees!” Said Dinky. “We must be getting pretty close to where we started.”

“That’s good.” Replied Rumble. “Let’s just hope we fill find Time Turner before-”

“Kids!!!” Shouted a familiar voice.
“Uh,oh…” Responded the unicorn filly.

After a few seconds a gray blur turned into w familiar wall-eyed mare.
She sighed with relief.

“Normally I would be angry at the three of you but that’s irrelevant for the moment-”

“You won’t tell Thunderlane?” Asked Rumble
“No. What we need to-”

“You won’t rat me out to my mom either right?” It was Pipsqueak’s time to chime in.
She groaned. “I won’t say a word, now-”

“Well then you have to go easy on me as well.” Said Dinky. “If you do otherwise that’ll show-”

“LISTEN TO ME!” Shouted Ditzy. All three foals locked eyes on her instantly. She knew it was a sign to continue.

“We need to get back to the house and don’t leave it for a while. There’s a cockatrice on the loose!”
Dinky gasped

“A cocka-what?” Asked Pipsqueak.

“Cockatrice. It’s a dangerous creature with head of a chicken and a body of a snake.” Explained Ditzy.

“Pfft.” snorted Rumble. “Body of a snake and the head of a chicken? That doesn’t sound scary. That sounds silly. If I ever saw one of them cockathingies face-to-face, I'd laugh at how silly it was.”

“No!” Dinky interrupted him. “Never look them in the eyes. If you do-”

A loud and sharp hiss interrupted the young filly.
Ditzy took a breath and looked behind her.

A peculiar creature slithered its way towards them. It had a serpentine body crowned with a chicken head. The claws and membrane wings gave it an ominous look.

“All three of you run from where I came from. When you reach the town, find Comet. He will know what to do.”

“We won’t leave you at the mercy of that thing!” Exclaimed Dinky.
“GO!”

All three of them shrunk under her glare and ran off.
Now it was just her and cockatrice.

It flew closer, while Ditzy remained still.

When they were less than one hoof apart, cockatrice looked her directly in the eyes. Ditzy’s hind legs started getting stiffer.

And yet the creature didn’t see fright or regret in her eyes. It saw anger.

“How dare you! Attacking an unsuspecting pony who didn’t do anything to you? Do you have any sense of guilt?”

This attitude made cockatrice feel uneasy. Does she know in what kind of danger she is right now?

“You’re going to turn my friend back to normal and bother nopony ever again. Got it?”

It tried to strengthen its gaze but to no avail. Seems like It is too stressed to turn anything into stone now.

The Cockatrice started backing off and clucking pitifully. The stone crust that started forming around Ditzy’s hind legs completely fell off.

Splitting headache. That was the first thing that Time Turner felt after being turned back into a normal.

“W-what?” He muttered to himself. Suddenly he felt somepony hugging him.
“Oh thanks Faust, You’re alive!”

He noticed that it was Ditzy doo holding him.

“Why wouldn’t I be alive?” Asked Time Turner confused.
“You were turned into stone by a cockatrice. I’m not as much of a bookworm as you or Comet Tale so I didn’t really know the consequences of turning you back to normal. Fortunately there doesn’t seem to be any.”

He smiled and hugged her back. A small blush formed on both of their cheeks.
“That… was… awesome!”

Both adult ponies turned their heads to see three very impressed foals.

“Can you do it again?” Dinky asked excitedly.

Next morning it was the time for the three foals to say goodbye to each other. Mrs. Chestnut and Thunderlane were watching Dinky say goodbye to her friends.

“Rumble didn’t cause any troubles, did he?” Thunderlane asked Ditzy.
“Nope, all of them were delightful.” Replied the pegasus mare smiling.

“Good to know.” Said Mrs. Chestnut. “Pipp keeps asking to let him host a sleepover the next time.

“I bet Dinky will excitedly await that day.” Said Ditzy.

Rumble and Pipsqueak left with their respective legal guardians, leaving only Dinky and her older sister.

“Why did you risk your and your friends safety?” Ditzy asked, but there was no anger in her voice.

Dinky lowered her head, trying to not look her sister in the eyes.
“I wanted to make sure that Time Turner would return safely.”

Not the answer Ditzy was expecting.
“You were eavesdropping?”

The filly blushed. “Sorry.”

Ditzy sighed. “While selfless I still don't understand why you would be concerned with the safety of a full grown stallion.”

“It’s just that… you always seem happy when he’s around so I thought if something bad happened to him you would be sad as well.” The unicorn filly said while circling her hoof on the ground.

Ditzy giggled and put her younger sister in a hug.
“I’m glad that you're growing up to be such a thoughtful and compassionate mare.”

Filly returned the hug and they remained like that for more than a minute.

“By the way, if you don’t let me skip washing dishes for a month I’m gonna tell mom about this.”

Ditzy’s snout immadeiately turned sour.
“Deal.”

Author's Note

Next time Fall Weather Friends.

Fall Weather Friends

“You know what? Not bad for a pony who mostly works with his head in the clouds.” Said Braeburn. The pegasus standing next to him grinned.

“Oh yeah? Think you can do better? Asked Soarin. Both of them stood in front of a short pole with one horseshoe laying roughly a hoof from it.

“I don’t think. I know I can do better.” The earth pony replied nonchalantly.

He took another horseshoe and swinged in the direction of the rod. This time the metal object landed 3 hoof lengths from the destined target. The apple farmer groaned.

“You remember, you have to throw it as close to the pole as possible, right?” Asked Soarin Snidely.

“Alright, alright.” Replied Braeburn, irritated. “It’s time for you to shine again. Take it away.”
The pegasus took the horseshoe in his teeth and threw it. This time if flew over the stick and hit something with a thud.

“Ow!” A male voice rang out.

Braeburn’s blood ran cold as he recognized it. Soon enough his older cousin emerged from the bushes. The red stallion was massaging the side of his head.

“That was him.” Soarin said immediately pointing hoof to his earth pony companion.
“W-what? You lying piece of-”

“Ah don’t care who threw it.” Big Mac interrupted his cousin. “What ah care about is why there are unbucked trees in the west wing?”

Braeburn scratched the back of his head.
“I don’t know, I agreed with Aj that she will be doing that part today, so go ask her.”

The red stallion nodded his head unconvinced. “Alright, I also came here to tell you that the dinner will be in half an hour. Your friend is free to stay as well.

Soarin waved his hoof. “Naah. Thanks for the offer but ma is already cooking something up. Wouldn’t want to upset her.”

Big Mac nodded his head understandingly.
“As you wish. Have fun, you two whatever you are doing.”
And with that he left.

Braeburn frowned at his pegasus friend.

“What was that all about?”
“Sorry man but I had to. If I hadn’t done that your cousin might have given me a black eye. You’re his family so you’ll be fine.”

“He is not that kind of pony. He wouldn’t have done anything to you.”
“I think you might be biased, let’s end on that.”

Soarin looked at the rest of the horseshoes cockily. “I think it’s your turn to humiliate yourself now.”

Braeburn took the u-shaped piece of metal and closed his eyes taking a deep breath.
He tried his hardest to visualize the horseshoe landing on a rod. He had this.

The earth stallion opened his eyes and threw the metal object. For Braeburn it was eternity before it landed.

The horseshoe fell directly on the pole.
“Yee-haw! That’s how you do it here on the apple farm!”

The pegasus growled something under his breath and kicked the ground with hir right foreleg.

“What was that?” Asked Braeburn with pride in his voice
“I hate losing.” Grumbled Soarin.

“Don’t worry you’re quite an athlete. It just happens that I’m better than you.” The earth pony said boastfully.

Soarin furrowed his eyebrows. “And just who do you think you are? The best athlete in Ponyville?”

“I was going to say Equestria but then I remembered about AJ so…” Replied Braeburn.

Soarin chuckled slightly. “I fancy myself the top athlete, so let’s solve it.”
“Solve what?”

“I challenge you to an Iron Pony competition. A series of athletic contests to decide who's the best, once and for all.”

Braeburn smirked. “You know what Soar? You’re on.”

With that both of them spit on their hooves and bumped them to seal the deal.

“So why am I here exactly?” Comet asked confused
“To be our judge and keep score.” Replied Braeburn

“Wouldn’t want this guy over here to cheat and get away with it.” Soarin said snidely but the earth pony just rolled his eyes.

Both of them and their judge made their way to the first competition, the barrel lead.

“Hello everypony, and welcome to the first annual Iron Pony competition!” Said the young drake, standing on Comet’s back.

The unicorn cocked his eyebrow “Uh, Spike, who are you talking to?”

“Uh…uh… Them of course!”

Comet turned his head to see Time Turner, Cheese Sandwich and Thunderlane. They were accompanied by Rumble and the rest of the apple family.

“I take it you guys came here to spectate?”
“You could say that.” Replied Thunderlane. “I was tipped off about the contest and couldn’t resist.”

“Similar thing with us.” Said Applejack. “We have all the chores done for the day and Braeburn is a family so we had to come and cheer him on.”

“Then you better strap in because I have a feeling this will take a while.”

And so the games went on. With every new competition the amount of spectators seemed to be growing. Finally they reached the last competition, the tug of war.

“Alright you two this is the final event, give it all you got.” Said Comet. With that Spike waved the checkered flag and the match began.

Both stallions pulled with all their might which rendered them stationary for a few seconds. That was until Soarin started slightly move in Braeburn’s direction. After some time five inches turned into ten.

The pegasus started to panic. He had to do something.

Soarin spread his wings and flapped them which caused both him and his rival to be airborne. The earth stallion was dangling while giving the pegasus a dirty stare. Unbeknownst to him, his orange cousin was also looking angrily at the display.

“You’re breaking the rules! You can’t use your wings!” Muffled Braeburn.
“Huh?” Asked Soarin also unclearly.

“You’re cheatin!” Growled the apple farmer
“I can’t understand you with rope in your mouth!” Said Soarin almost mockingly.

“I said-” But before Braeburn could finish he landed snout first in the mud as he had opened his mouth to respond.
Ponies started cheering on with bright smiles on their faces. That was of course excluding the members of the apple family.

“Wohoo! Looks like it’s already clear who’s the Iron Pony.” Said Soarin boastfully.

“Only because you’ve cheated!” Everypony turned their heads in the direction of the voice to see a very agitated Applejack.

“What ?” Asked the pegasus barely believing his ears.

“I don’t think she stuttered.” Said Braeburn bitterly after spitting out mud out of his mouth.

“You used your wingpower to cheat your way out of the competition!” The orange mare said accusingly.

“Sounds like both of you are really salty about the score.” Scoffed Soarin.

“Are you saying you didn’t use your wings?” Asked Braeburn.

“Well… no… But none of the rules stated that you can’t use them!” The pegasus defended himself.

Both of the apple farmers looked at the Comet. Unicorn experienced the weight of their stares intensely.

“Uhmm… Technically he didn’t break any of the rules.” Said Comet.

“It doesn’t matter!” Said Soarin. “Even without the wings I would’ve beaten him!”

“Prove it!” Braeburn raised his voice. “Tomorrow is the annual Running of the Leaves. I challenge you to race me in it!”

Soarin smirked. “Gladly.”

“Hold on!” Applejack interrupted him. “There is one condition, the point is to run so no wings allowed!”

“No wings. No problem.” Replied The pegasus feeling more than sure of himself.

“Good Faust Comet, hurry up!” Spike said impatiently. “With your pace the race will end before we even get there!”

“What are you so excited about? Only ponies can partake in the race.”
“Well yes… but I hoped that I could be the announcer again.” Said Spike.

“I’ll save you the disappointment, Cheese Sandwich and Pinkie Pie have already been chosen for that position.”
The dragon deflated slightly.

“Oh… ok then.”
“Look at it from the brighter side, now that you can’t announce you will be able to sit next to Rarity.”

“Really?!” Spike asked, immediately perking up.
“Yup, she will watch over you while I partake in the race.

The duo left the library and trotted towards where the race took place. Before getting his number tag Comet dropped Spike off to Rarity.

At the starting line Comet saw a face that he did not expect.
“Rainbow Dash?” He asked The mare with rainbow-colored mane only to earn a smile from her.

“The one and only.”
“I didn’t expect somepony like you here. Do the wonderbolts need to pass a running test now or something?”

“Nope. I’m doing it out of my own free will. I feel kind of connected to this town. Besides…”

She looked at something in the crowd. Comet’s eyes took the same route to see an orange pegasus filly with purple mane. She was grinning from ear to ear and holding a sign that said ‘Rainbow Dash, the number one Wonderbolt.’ Comet recognized the filly as Scootaloo, the friend of Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle’s friend.

“...I have ponies who count on me here.” The mare finished the sentence smiling.

Comet felt there was some kind of history between the two of them but decided not to dig in now.

Apart from the wonderbolt two other ponies approached him.
“I see you’re making friends with some influential ponies here, Comet.” Said Braeburn grinning.

Soarin just silently looked at both of them.

“I would say that he’s the most influential here.” Replied the pegasus mare. “Him being the royal protege and all.”

Braeburn shrugged his arms. “Whatever you say, miss dash.”
“Please just Dash, these formalities make me feel old.”

Both of them laughed, while Soarin looked at Braeburn unflatteringly. Comet wondered what was that all about but before he could think any further the announcers' voices rang out.

“Good morning Ponyville my name’s Cheese Sandwich…”
“And I am Pinkie Pie.” Replied the pink mare with a puffy mane.”

Both of them were sitting in a hot air balloon with megaphones.

“We will be covering today’s race for you live!” They both said in unison.

Despite being two different part organizers in the same town, there wasn’t any animosity between them. Playful banter from time to time but that’s it.

Comet would go as far as saying that both of them liked each other.

“Alright you silly fillies!” Exclaimed Pinkie Pie. “Go to the starting line!”

All of the contestants did As they were told. Cheese Sandwich started counting.

“Three!”
Braeburn dug his hoof in and Soarin started stretching his neck.

“Two!”
“You still have time to withdraw.” Soarin whispered to Braeburn.

“One!”
“You wish.” The earth pony growled back.

“START!”

With that all of them lunged forward and turned into multi-color blur.

For a good couple of minutes both stallions were going neck and neck. That was until Braeburn started to get ahead of Soarin.

“What’s the matter, Iron Pony? Are you running out of breath?” Braeburn said tauntingly.
Soarin growled in response.

“So, Braeburn and Soarin. What’s the matter with these two, Cheese?” Asked Pinkie
“Good question. Many ponies may not know but these two have a grudge to settle. They’re trying to prove who’s more athletic. “ Replied her male co-announcer.

“Grudge is a fun word, it rhymes with fudge you know?”
“I sure do know! Do you like fudge, Pinkie?”

“I do but if I eat too much fudge I get a pudge and then I can't budge.”
“So… no pudge?”

“Oh, no, thanks. I had a big breakfast.”
Both of them started laughing at the exchange.

Comet noted to himself mentally that next year they should probably get somepony else for that position.

Meanwhile Braeburn started slowing down as he had not seen Soarin for a while.

His gallop turned into a trot and his trot turned into a walk. He started taking deep breaths in order to help the oxygen circulation. He was safe for a while.

“See ya, sucker!”
Before he could comprehend what happened a blue blur ran past him. After a moment the earth pony realized it was nopony else but Soarin himself.

Braeburn stepped up the pace. Now he was only a few hoof lengths away from the pegasus.

The following events happened at the break neck speed.

Soarin pushed the branch to give it momentum. It swinged back, hitting Braeburn with enough force to make air leave his lungs.

He groaned and helped himself up. The pegasus was already out of his sight.

The earth pony could feel anger rise within him until he looked at the branch and an idea entered his head.

“Two can play that game, bastard.”

Soarin grinned, congratulating himself in his own mind. Now there was no way the apple farmer could outrace him.

As soon as these thoughts left his mind something flew next to him.
“Nice try.”

It was Braeburn. Soarin thought that he probably used a branch to give himself some momentum.

But before the pegasus could grit his teeth, something unexpected happened.

Braeburn’s glide was stopped by a tree. The force of which made it swing violently.

Finally the giant beehive broke away from the top branch and flew towards Soarin.

Stallion didn’t have the time to react as the hive crashed on his head.

Infuriated bees started stinging him everywhere. Under his armpits, on the neck, between his ears.

“Aaargh!” Pegasus shouted painfully and started running as fast as he could to leave the insects behind.

Almost instantly he was gone from this part of the forest. Braeburn still layed under the tree, not fully awake.

Had he awoken earlier he would have seen a rainbow-maned mare running past him.

That was it. Braeburn has officially crossed the line. Soarin wouldn’t let this little stunt go.
He had to find a way to get back at the apple farmer.

He noticed something in front of him. It was a road fork with an arrow sign pointing to the right.

A devious idea formed inside of Soarin’s head. With a swing of a hoof he made the wooden board point in the left direction.

Pegasus heard another pony coming. He hid in the bush as to not rise any suspicions.

If he had looked he would have seen that it was not the apple farmer but a familiar pegasus mare.

When he was sure nopony was around he turned sign back to it’s original direction.

Sweet revenge was at last his.

Rainbow Dash progressively started noticing that the landscape started changing. From amber forests to dried up rocks. Not a lot of trees that need help with getting rid of their leaves

The path started narrowing. Maybe it was all part of the plan. They wanted to make it more challenging perhaps?

Before she could think of anything else she saw that the road came to an abrupt end.It turned to the cliff’s edge to be more precise.

She tried to stop herself which had an unforeseen outcome. She tripped on a rock and started falling down, moreover while falling she hit the edge of the cliff and felt a huge pain in her right wing.

Finally she landed on one of the seastucks with a thud.

The mare groaned and tried standing up. When sight returned to her eyes she started assessing the situation.

She was alive so that was a pro. Now the cons. There were no other platforms beneath her, just a steep slope. She couldn’t fly.

And worst of them all, the more she moved the more the edge crumbled.

“HELLO?! ANYPONY OUT THERE?!” She cried but it all felt on deaf ears

He had to try his hardest. Otherwise this self-centered jerk would get all the glory.

And that was something Braeburn couldn’t allow. He gradually overtook other competitors, but all of this meant nothing. What mattered the most was finding him. And he just did.

There he was, galloping with that smile. Unaware of the earth pony approaching him.

Suddenly Soarin felt a great force landing on him. Strength of which left him breathless.

He turned his head to see very angry Breaburn.

“Now you’re gonna-” Before he could finish Soarin kicked him off himself. The eart pony landed on his back but quickly regained his footing.

“Wait…” Soarin said. “If you’re here then that means…”
Pegasus’s muzzle went player than usual. “Oh no.”

“What is it?” Braeburn asked not expecting this kind of answer from his rival.

“I gotta go.” Soarin spread his wings.
“Where are you going? The race isn’t finished!” The earth pony asked as he was angry and confused.

“You’ve won the race.” The pegasus said and took to flight.
“ WHAT?!”
But before Braeburn could ask any more questions the pegasus was already gone

Minute by minute her hopes of getting found were getting smaller and smaller.
Rainbow sighed.

Is that it? That’s how she’s gonna go?

No bang just a quiet whimper.

“Hello?!”

She turned her head upwards to see a pegasus stallion hovering above her. He had a pale blue coat and green eyes. Rainbow recognized him instantly.

“You’re one of the Elements of Harmony! Soren, is it?”
“Soarin and yeah, that’s me. The element of loyalty to be precise.”

Ground shifted slightly under their hooves.
“The soil keeps crumbling the more we move.” Rainbow explained briefly.

Soarin took a deep breath.
“Okay here’s what we’re gonna do-”

But before he could explain the plan, the platform gave up completely, plunging both of them down the cliff.

For the first time in many years Rainbow Dash shouted out in genuine fear.

The ground was getting closer and closer until… it stopped.

A sudden force stopped her about twenty hooves above the soil. The sound of flapping wings echoed in the air.

Rainbow Dash slowly opened her eyes. It was Soarin. He was holding her in a bridal

Blood instantly ran up to her muzzle.

“You alright there?” He asked concerned.
“Yeah, uhh…” She cleared her throat. “Can we fly up to the other side of the canyon?”

“Sure.” He replied and soon enough both of them were standing on a grassy field.

“Thank you.” Rainbow Dash said. “I don’t know what would’ve happened if you hadn’t found me.”

Soarin lowered his head. “You shouldn’t thank me.”
She cocked her eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

“I-”
“There you are!”

Both of them turned their heads to the direction of the sound. It was Braeburn standing there and smiling.

The pegasus stallion felt confused. “What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be celebrating now? I’ve lost to you.”

The earth pony grinned
“Actually you didn’t lose to me. As soon as I saw you flying away I run after you. Luckily for me you were flying rather low.”

Soarin thought for a moment.
“Did you… see everything?”

Braeburn nodded his head.
“I saw everything. I fancy myself a good judge of character but I’ve been proven wrong today. I took you for an arrogant and self-centered and yet you’ve chosen to help a pony in trouble instead of having the satisfaction of beating me.”

The earth pony’s muzzle turned to a more serious expression. “There is of course still a question of how did you know about Ms. Dash’s predicament.

Soarin looked at both of them. They clearly expected answers. He had nowhere to run now.

The pegasus took a deep breath.

“Truth be told all of this wouldn’t happen if it wasn’t for me.” He gulped.

“When Braeburn hit that tree and made the bees go after me I was… angry. So angry in fact that I changed the sign as a form of revenge. I was foolish enough as not to look and automatically assumed that the next running pony will be him. I think the rest is pretty self explanatory.”

He took another breath.
“ What I did was reckless and juvenile, and for that I am sorry, for both of you.”

Silence hung in the air. He expected them to shout, he expected them to curse and yet none of this came.

Soarin felt a touch on his right arm. He raised his head to see Rainbow, putting a hoof on his arm comfortingly.

“You’re right what you did was pretty messed up.”

Just as he thought.

“...But you also came here to save my life. On top of that you seem to genuinely regret your actions. I would say the positives here outweigh the negatives.”

She turned her head to the earth pony. “What do you think Braeburn?”

He chuckled. “I reciprocate the thoughts.” Braeburn cocked his hat. “For a Running of the Leaves we haven’t knocked down many. Are you keen on fixing this?”

Soarin grinned. “I am.”

After all that day of running Soarin felt as though he should give himself some rest. He allowed his thoughts to run freely while laying on a hill. Was there anything else he should do to repent for his actions?

Rainbow looked fine but how would he know how she really felt about this. Maybe she quietly resented him. That was probable. His actions caused her a broken wing. That’s a huge issue for somepony like her. She was a wonderbolt after all.

“Whatcha doing there dude?”

He turned his head to see a grinning Rainbow Dash “Cloud gazing by any chance.”

“Umm… yeah.”
“Would you mind if I sat down next to you.”

The thoughts started running rampant in his head.
“S-sure. Be my guest.”

She did just that.

Soarin’s heart started beating faster as he didn’t expect the mare to be so close to him.

“You know what? I still have a feeling I’ve seen you somewhere before. And I’m not talking about that whole elements business.”

He decided that this was the best time to tell her.

“We actually went to the same High School. Remember the athlete’s club?”

She gasped “I knew it!”
Soarin chuckled “I assisted you once with wing lifting.”

“Well now that I have my wing broke We can’t really compete in that discipline.”

His muzzle saddened at the words. “Sorry.”

“Pfft! Don’t be!” She said. “Instead of moping around how about you repay me?”

Soaring got curious “In what way?”
“Do you see that rock?” She asked him while pointing in the direction of the object.

“Yeah, what about it?”
“Race me to it. If I win you’ll have to buy me a hayburger later. If you win, you’ll have a ticket to the next wonderbolts show for free.”

“Hmm… I think I like that idea.”
“Cool.” She smiled and nudged him playfully “See you at the finish.”

And with that she darted away instantly. Soarin soon followed with a wide grin on his muzzle.

Ticket Master

“Nope, nope…. nope-”
“Can you stop that? We’ve been picking apples all morning while all you did was sit on my back. The least you can do is not throw half of them away.”

The young drake mumbled something to himself and stopped. He didn't like being lectured by his older brother.

“Easy there Comet.” Said Braeburn “We still have to separate fresh apples from the rotten ones. Little guy’s not doing anything wrong.”

“You’re the best judge of everything apple-related, so I’ll trust you.” Replied Comet chuckling.

“Thank you kindly,Comet, for helping me out. I bet Big McIntosh I could get all these Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. If I win, he's gonna walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny's girdles.” Said the apple farmer

“I’d pay a bit or two to see that.” Said Comet.

Their conversation was interrupted by a loud belch released by Spike. The green fire released from the reptile's mouth formed into a scroll.

Spike picked it from the ground and opened it

“Hear ye, hear ye. Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria, is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Comet Tale plus one guest.” Young dragon read aloud and took out two golden tickets.

“Oh no.” Said Comet

Braeburn gasped. “ As in the Grand Galloping Gala?”

The unicorn looked at him weirdly. “You’re a fan? I wouldn’t have thought so.”

“Fan of the event? No not really my thing. I’m more interested in the ponies attending.”

“Trust me it’s not worth it. Canterlot is home to the worst snobs in all of Equestria. I could name maybe five decent ponies among the nobility of the capital.”

“Perhaps, but all of them like to eat. And what better way to satisfy the hunger than baked goods? Preferably the ones containing the best apples in all of Equestria.”

Braeburn smiled dreamily. “You know what I could do with all that money? We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big McIntosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip. Who knows? Maybe we would be able to save enough money to financially aid my own folks in Appleoosa. I know that dad keeps complaining about the crumbling walls in our granary.”

Comet needed to take all of that in. “That is… quite a noble goal.” He smiled. “And what kind of friend would I be if-”

All of a sudden something hit the ground next to them with such force that it raised a cloud of dust.

The two ponies started coughing profusely.

“Did somepony said Grand Galloping Gala?”

They rubbed their eyes to see Soarin grinning from ear to ear.

Braeburn’s muzzle soured immediately. “Yeah, what of it?”

“Well I was just flying by and happened to hear that Comet has an extra ticket to spare.”
“It doesn’t matter what you heard, because this place is already taken by me.” Braeburn said defensively.

“Hold on a minute.” Comet interrupted. “I didn’t promise you anything yet.”
Braeburn seemed slightly hurt by the remark but Comet turned his head to Soarin “Why do you want to attend?”

“Who said anything about me?”

Comet looked at him confused. “I don’t think I follow.”

“Don’t get me wrong I’d love to have a chance to mingle with the wonderbolts but… there is somepony who would like to go way more than me.”

“Who?” Asked Comet curiously.

“Why, mom of course. She always had a fascination with everything high class. Music, etiquette, clothing. That’s probably why she gets on with Rarity so well. That kind of trip would probably be a dream come true for her.”

Comet rubbed his chin. “That’s… really admirable of you, actually.”

Both stallions looked at him intensely, clearly expecting answers but before the unicorn could respond his stomach made a growling noise. He chuckled nervously.

“Listen to that, I am starving. I don't know about you, but I can't make important decisions on an empty stomach, so I'll, uh, think about it over lunch and get back to you two, okay?”

Both of them nodded.
“Don’t make any rash decisions.” Said Braeburn.

“We’ll wait patiently.” Added Soarin

Comet walked away while still feeling their eyes drilling him.

“Both of them seem to have equally important reasons to go.” Said Spike while sitting on his brother’s back.

“Tell me about it.” Sighed Comet. “There’s no way to please them both.”

The unicorn stopped in a standstill.

“Unless…”

“Unless what?” Asked Spike.
“I don’t really enjoy the Gala so, if I just… give my ticket to one of them, I’d please them both.”

Comet chuckled. “And I have good enough reason not to attend myself. Look at me Spike, a master problem - solver.”

The drake rolled his eyes.

“Heyyy there Comet!”

Unicorn turned his head to see nopony else but Cheese Sandwich.

“What’s up Cheese?” Asked Comet. The party planner threw his hoof over the unicorn’s shoulder.

“Nothing substantial, just wanted to check out on my number one royal protege and best friend.”

Comet found the whole situation weird. Cheese Sandwich was one of the friendliest ponies he’s ever know but even for him this type of flattery was rare.

Unless this was about something else.

“You don’t happen to have any hidden intentions do you?” Comet asked sensing where this was going.

“Me? Pfft! Nooo…” He let out a nervous chuckle. “But You haven't decided who you're going to give that ticket to, have you?”

Unicorn’s mood has been spoiled. “Are you interested in this by any chance?”

Cheese nodded his head.

“You see, in the event such as the gala there are a lot of influential ponies. Only the creme de la creme of our society. While I'm Equestria's best entertainer, not everypony knows of my existence on the market. I want to change that. The connections made there could help me greatly in developing my career.”

The earth pony looked at him pleading. Comet had to admit it was also solid reason.

“Listen Cheese, I’m still kind of hungry and when I’m hungry I don’t think straight. I will consider your words over lunch, okay?”

The party planner nodded his head. “As you wish. Just keep in mind that Soarin has a long tongue and I probably won’t be the only one approaching you about the matter.”

Comet sighed. “That’s just… peachy.”

With that unicorn went to the closest restaurant to finally fill his stomach.

Both him and Spike sat down waiting for the waiter.

“Maybe you should decide with a dice roll?” Suggested Spike.
“Naah.” Replied Comet. “This would be fleeing from responsibility. I need to make the choice myself.

They relayed to the waiter what they want and waited for their orders, pondering what they’re gonna do next.

After a few minutes the waiter arrived with their orders.

“Em, sir? Are you going to eat your food in ze rain?” Asked the waiter.
“W-what? There is no-” But before Comet could finish rain came pouring down.

That is except the small area where Comet and Spike sat. Unicorn raised his head to see a circular hole where they sat. Grinning Thunderlane was looking at them.

“What are you doing?” Comet asked deadpan.

“Whaddya mean? I just saw the smartest, most generous pony about to get rained on, so I thought I'd kick a hole in the clouds to keep him dry so he could dine in peace, that's all.” Stallion replied.

“You’re not doing it win any extra favors, do you?”
“Ehhh…”

“Maybe a ticket to a particular event?”

“I…” The pegasus sighed. “With that ticket I would be able to talk with Restless Cloud.”

“As in the regulated atmospheric phenomena minister?”
Thunderlane nodded. “When I talk to him I could probably convince him to transfer more money to our local department of weather patrol. We are understaffed and underfunded . With his help our sector could develop significantly.”

Another good reason. Faust is clearly playing some kind of game with him.

“Listen I am not comfortable accepting unwanted favors, so I'd appreciate it if you close up that rain cloud right now. I’ll consider your words, okay?”

Comet could tell his friend’s mood soured immediately.

“Fine.” He mumbled and did as he was told.

Water immediately destroyed Comet’s mane and his order.

“Maybe we actually should eat inside?” Suggested Spike.

After the storm both of them went to Time Turner’s workshop as Comet’s wristwatch should’ve been fixed by now.

Upon entering they were greeted by the eccentric stallion.

“Greetings Comet!”
“Hi Time! I take it my watch is already.”

“It’s as good as new.” The earth pony gave the unicorn the item in question.

Comet couldn’t help but notice there was something different about it. Mainely some new buttons at the sides.

“Ehhh, why does it look different now?” Asked the unicorn.
“Oh, I’m so sorry for that. I thought I would improve your watch a little. It can now show time in all Equestrian time zones.”

Comet looked at him questioningly.
“It’s free of charge of course.” Added Time Turner.

“And you did that because…” Asked the unicorn.
“You’re my friend?” The inventor said unconvincingly.

Comet cocked his eyebrow and the earth pony sighed.
“That and I’m also interested in going to the Gala.”

The unicorn groaned. “Of course you do. May I ask why?”
“Steel Cog, the head of Technology and Innovation Department will be there. With his help I could show my ideas to the whole of Equestria. Maybe I’ll even be able to find somepony willing to fund my projects.”

Why did all of his friends had to have such good reasons to go? Comet didn’t like this state of affairs at all.

“I’ll think about this okay?” Said The unicorn.
“Take your time.” Replied his friend
After that they parted ways.

Comet lied in his bed. No matter how long he thought, He couldn’t justify putting the needs of one friend over the others.

That’s when it struck him.

He doesn’t have to choose at all.

The next day all the element holders gathered at the Golden Oak library. Except for Comet none of them had the idea what will come next.

“You probably guessed why I gathered all five of you here.”

“To announce which one of us is getting the ticket?” Guessed Soarin.

Comet nodded.

“I just want to say that I won’t be angry if you don’t choose me.” Said Braeburn. “Choose as your conscience dictates.”

“Same thing with me.” Added Cheese Sandwich.

The rest of the stallions verbally declared that they share the same sentiment.

The royal protege took a deep breath.

“Spike, take down a note.”
The little drake took out the quill and parchment.

“Dear Princess Celestia,
I've learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there's not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. So, though I appreciate the invitation, I will be returning both tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala.”
“What?!” His friends exclaimed in unison.
“Did you hit your head on something before you came here?” Asked Soarin

“No.” Replied the unicorn. “If my friends can’t all go then I don’t wanna go either.”

He turned his gaze to Spike. “You can send it.” Comet said.

The dragon did just that.

“Now you can’t go to the gala either.” Noted Thunderlane.

“Trust me I’ve been there when I was ten. There’s not really much to loose, just a bunch of snobs talking about the most mundane of things.”

“How did you even get there as a ten year old?” Asked Braeburn.
“Lord Night Light received an extra ticket and gave it to me as a sign of respect.”

Soarin raised his eyebrow. “You went to the gala with some older stallion that wasn’t your dad? Kinda creepy.”

Comet rolled his eyes “I accompanied him and the rest of his family. I believe he gave me the invite because I was friends with his daughter.”

The blue-maned pegasus giggled. “Regular friends or friends-friends?”

“I-I…” Comet didn’t really expect this kind of question.

“That’s none of your concern.” Said Thunderlane coming to Comet’s rescue.

Suddenly Spike burped loudly, materializing another scroll. Dragon rolled it open.

“My faithful student, why didn’t you say so earlier? Here’s the tickets for you, your friends, Spike and one extra because I’m feeling particularly generous today.”

“Wow.” Cheese said looking at the abundance of tickets.

“Look out, Turner. Looks like your position of element of generosity is being threatened.” Said Braeburn teasingly.

Everypony except Time Turner chuckled at the remark.

Comet’s stomach grumbled loudly. “I was so eager about the announcement that I forgot to eat breakfast.” He confessed.

“I think it’s time for us to head to Golden Hour for some eggs and haybacon with beans. All on me of course.” Announced Braeburn.

“I’ll gladly take up your offer.” Said Comet grinning.
And with that all of them went for a heart breakfast.

Author's Note

I normally don't ask story-spoiling questions, but would you guys rather see Twilight playing a more important role pre or post gala?

Boast Busters

“Come on Comet! You can do it!” Exclaimed Spike. Both of them were at the Golden Oak library.

“Okay, here it goes!” The unicorn flared up his horn and shot a beam in the direction of Spike’s muzzle. Shortly after a pair of mustache grew under the drake’s nostrils.

“Ha ha! Ya did it! Growing magic, that's number twenty-five. Twenty-five different types of tricks and counting. And I think this is the best trick so far.”

He looked at himself in the mirror.
“Hello, Rarity. What's that? Aw, it's nothin', just my awesome mustache. “

Reptile giggled to himself.

“Sorry Romeo but this stache is only for practice. It’s gotta go.”
Comet fired another spell, this one got rid of Spike’s pride.

Young dragon deflated slightly.
“Come on, let’s go to the town’s square, I’m sure something interesting is going to happen today.” Comet said wanting Spike to stop thinking about his loss.

“I don’t get it with you.” Spike told Comet while they were strolling through the main square. “You’ve performed twenty five kinds of tricks already. Shouldn’t unicorns have just a little bit of magic that is tied to their special talent?”

“Not necessarily.” Replied the unicorn. “That’s true for some unicorns but some of them can spend their whole life perfecting the arcane arts. Think of Starswirl or Fleeing Whisper, the Great Archmage of the west.”

“So kinda like you.”
“I’d need to have my head up my flank to think I’m anywhere near their level.”

“I think you’re selling yourself short there. The only other unicorn your age with similar skills that I can name is Twilight.”

Comet smiled faintly. “I wonder how she’s doing.”
“What did she write to you?” Asked Spike without thinking.

His older brother didn’t say anything back.
Spike looked at him.

“You did write to her, right?” Spike pressed him.

Comet sighed. “It’s… complicated, Spike.”
“What exactly? You pick up the pen, dip it in ink and describe what you’ve been through.”

“ I have trouble forming my thoughts. They’ve been wandering around for a while.”
“Huh? Is that so? Can I help you in any way with that?”

“No, you wouldn’t get it.”
“Try me.”

Comet chuckled. “Wow you really are relentless today, aren’t you?”
“I just want to help you solve a problem.”

“There is none.”
“You’re not acting like yourself. You two have been practically joined at the hip throughout your whole foalhood and now you don’t know how to talk to her?”

“Can you just drop it please?” Comet asked, a little more aggression in his voice than he planned.

Spike raised his claws in defeat. “As you wish.”

The unicorn wanted to apologize for his sudden outburst but before he could say anything a pair of colts almost run into him.

“Gangway! Coming through!

He recognized the pair as Snips and Snails. It probably wasn’t the nicest thing to say but they struck him as not the brightest foals in the area.

The shorter of them Snips rammed into Spike, probably not out of spite but simply not noticing him.

“Augh! Snips! Snails! What’s going on?” Exclaimed the young drake. As if by magic both of them stopped instantly in their tracks, which in turn sent the reptile forward.

“Well, haven’t you heard?” Asked Snails. “There’s a new unicorn in the town!”
“Yeah!” Snips chimed in, excited. “They say that she’s got more magical powers than any other unicorn ever!”

“Really?” Comet asked intrigued.”

“Heh, yeah right. That honor goes to the Comet Tail here.” Said Spike sounding almost offended.

“Where is this new unicorn?” Asked the royal protege

“Ho, she's in the town square. Come on!” Snails encouraged them.

Luckily for them they didn’t have to go very far.

In the middle of the aforementioned square Comet saw a huge crowd of ponies gathered in front of the wagon. Soon enough the carriage started transforming into a stage with curtains.

“Come one, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!” The announcement was followed by a gust of smoke from which emerged a mare.

She had light blue coat, white mane and dark violet eyes. Upon her shoulders and head rested pointy cap and a cape. Both of them decorated with a star pattern.

The audience oohed at the sight.

“Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!”

Fireworks and fanfare started playing to enhance the effect.

“My,my. What boasting.” Said Rarity.

“Yeah! There’s nopony more magical than Co-Co…” Spike’s speech slurred out as he noticed Rarity was standing next to him.

“H-hi, Rarity, I-” He stoped for a second to touch mis muzzle. “Mustache!”

“There’s nothing wrong with being talented, is there?” Comet asked uncertainly.

“Nothin' at all, except when someone goes around showin' it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons.” Replied Applejack.

“Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us.” Added Rarity.

“Yeah and sometimes it just isn’t cool to remind somepony that you’re better at something than them.” Said Soarin. “Take a look at me. I don’t remind Thunderlane every time we see each other that he has not won once in a race against me.”

Applejack frowned at him. Soarin shrunk under her gaze. “Alright, maybe I’ve done that once or twice.”

“Well, well, well.” Trixie glared at them. “it seems we have some neighsayers in the audience. Who is so ignorant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria?”

Rarity blew a raspberry. “Just who does she think she is?”

“Yeah! Since we all know that Comet here-” Spike started saying but was interrupted by his brother putting a hoof on his shoulder.

“Alright there buddy, calm down.” Comet said.
“What? What’s wrong?” Spike asked, confused.

“It doesn’t matter which one of us is better at magic. The point about showing off still stands true so it’s meaningless to engage in contests.” His older brother explained to him.

“So Great and Powerful, huh?” Soarin asked with a sneer. “Those are some impressive nicknames you got there. What did you do to earn them?”

“Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded ursa major!“ She replied. It was followed by another round of fireworks and fanfare.

The audience aahed again.

“No way!” Said Snails.

“When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had no one to turn to. But the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped in and, with her awesome magic, vanquished the ursa major and sent it back to its cave deep within the Everfree Forest!” Boasted Trixie.

Everyone beside their group started cheering, including the unicorn colts duo.

“Trixie truly is the most talented, the most magical, the most awesome unicorn in Ponyville.” Exclaimed Snails.

“No, In all of Equestria!” Added Snips.
“How do you know it? You haven’t seen it yourself.” Spike said defensively

The magician smirked at their words. “If your group doesn’t believe Trixie then I hereby challenge you all. Anything you can do, I can do better.”

Nobody responded.

“Any takers? Anyone? Hmm? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived?!”

Fireworks and fanfare started playing again.

“Please I beg of you, as your little brother, you gotta show her!” Spike cried to Comet. “You just gotta,she’s unbearable!”

Trixie’s eyes locked on Comet. “How about you?”

He looked around himself. “What? Me?”

“Yes you. Is there anything you can do that Trixie can’t?”

The unicorn scratched the back of his head. “I can recite the first three chapters of Equestrian Arcane’s Essentials. Though it’s not much of a skill, is it?”

The blue unicorn looked at him weirdly.

“That's it! I can't stand for no more of this!” Applejack interrupted them and walked on stage.

“You show her AJ!” Spike encouraged her.

“Can your magical powers do this?” The orange mare asked and gave an impressive show of lasso work.

The audience cheered, enthralled.

“Top that missy!” Said Applejack proudly.

“Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie!”

She glowed her horn and one of the ropes started moving in a serpentine-like fashion. Soon enough the rope wrapped around Applejack’ made her fall over.

Trixie smiled triumphantly.

“It’s all fine and dandy, but you didn’t exactly beat her in the lassoing, did you?” Asked Comet.

The magician stared daggers at him.

“What did you say?” She strained through her teeth.

“You’ve used your magic to move the rope, but the swinging abilities were nowhere as impressive.

She released the air angrily through her nostrils. “I see how it is…”

Comet thought to himself that it sounded weirdly ominous.

“What’s your name?” The blue unicorn asked.

He got himself unwillingly into trouble again.

“I’m Comet Tail.” He replied not knowing what to expect.

She smirked maliciously.
“Well then Comet Tail, you can feel privileged as the Great and Powerful Trixie is challenging you to a magic duel!”

Fanfare and fireworks played again. The audience cheered.
“Tomorrow precisely at noon you will be obliterated at this very town square.”

“No way dude!” Said Snails.
“Congratulations!” Added Snips

Comet on the other hand didn’t like the idea at all.

The sun was at it’s highest point when the royal protege reached the town’s square. It was filled with almost every inhabitant of Ponyville.

Including his six friends. The look on element bearers faces ranged from happiness to uncertainty.

“You’ve got it, partner!” Exclaimed Braeburn.

“Remember no matter the outcome, Celestia has chosen you as her protege not her.” Said Time Turner. “This gotta count for something.”

Comet took a deep breath. “You guys have my back?”

Thunderlane smiled. “Always.”

Now he noticed his opponent standing on the other half of the square, grinning snidely.

“Aaaw! Would you look at that, you have someone to comfort you as you face your total annihilation.”

“Funny. Do you have anypony to help you cope once I’m done with you?” Comet responded.

Trixie started gritting her teeth angrily. “Less talking, more spell casting!”

With that she flared her horn and summoned three creatures in a light pink flash. A lion, ram and a huge snake.

Ponies in the crowd started cheering.
“Wait, my dear admirers. That’s not all!” Said Trixie.

There was another flash after which there was only one summoned creature, a chimera.
The beast roared loudly and spit out a streak of fire.

The ponies became even louder.

“Your move now, Mister know-it-all.” She said

Comet analyzed her spells exactly. Her moves, the flashes of light. He looked for anything out of the ordinary

Finally it struck him.

He shoot out an glowing orb which flew into the direction of the chimera. The explosion of light upon the impact blinded everyone gathered.

When they opened their eyes, the creature vanished causing a mass confusion.

“I thought as much.” Smirked Comet Tail.

The ponies started whispering among each other while Trixie’s face contorted angrily.

“You didn’t teleport and transmutate these animals. You’ve just mastered a spell that manipulates the way that light bends around a certain area.” Comet explained loud enough for the crowd to hear. “A refraction spell, maybe?” He asked smugly.

His friends started cheering him on, except for Time Turner who seemed to have been occupied with writing something down in his notebook.

Trixie snorted. “Trixie is just getting started, watch this!”

A spell flashed again and this time the stage was filled with dozens of Trixie’s.

Comet Tail already formed an idea in his head how this could have been accomplished.

“A simple cloning spell. Your time to shine, even foals know this one.” Said Trixie with a hint of venom.

The royal protege flashed his horn… only to reveal two copies of himself.

“HAH! Pathetic. Only two? That’s slightly above what a foal can do.”

Comet shrugged his arms. “Maybe you’re right, I’ve never been too good with this spell, however…”

He lifted a stone with his hoof and threw it at one of his copies. It hit it squarely on the back of its head earning a hiss. The clone looked at the Comet accusingly.

“You can interact with them, they are exemplary copies…” The yellow unicorn continued.

He picked up the stone and suddenly threw it at one of Trixie’s clones. Before she could respond in any way the rock hit the copy making it disappear in a puff of smoke.

“Yours on the other hoof are advanced smoke manipulations. Kind of a shame, you can’t really do anything with them. So much as a scratch and they disappear.”

Trixie gave a him a look that could probably kill.

Without any warning a light exploded from her horn blinding temporarily everyone present.

When they opened their eyes they were no longer in Ponyville.

All around them was dense vegetation with exotic birds screeching.

A waterfall could’ve been seen in the background.

“Behold! The power of Great and Powerful Trixie has sent you to the vibrant jungle of Zebrabwe!”

Comet had to admit it was pretty impressive, but again he had an idea how she achieved this.

“Everypony! Can I have your attention?”

All of the crowd including Trixie looked at him.

“Look at the tip of my horn.” He added.

Everyone did as they were told and were soon met with another explosion of light.

After opening their eyes again, they were back in Ponyville, their ears ringing.

“Before anyone freaks out, we haven’t been teleported to Zebrabwe. What you’ve seen and heard was the effect of Sensory Mirage. A spell that controls the way your eyes see light and alter your hearing.”

Trixie looked at him. Nothing but disdain in her eyes.

The mood among the ponies was different now. Instead of happily cheering they were whispering amongst each other. Some of them even started giving Trixie bad looks.

The magician took a deep breath. “Enjoy your victory while it lasts, bookworm, because the next time we meet the odds may not be in your favour.

With these words she flashed her horn for the last time, this time vanishing with her cart.

“Huh. So you can teleport after all.” Comet noted to himself.

“That’s what I’m talking about!” The unicorn turned his head to see a very enthusiastic Soarin.

“Wouldn't expect nothin' less from ya, partner!” Exclaimed Braeburn.

“Congratulations.” Added Time Turner smiling.

“Thanks for the kind words but I wouldn’t have been able to expose her scam if it weren’t for your support.” Replied Comet Tail. “And Twilight.” He told himself mentally.

“You guys know what it calls for, right?” Asked Cheese Sandwich.

The rest of the mane six shook their heads.

“A scam prevention party of course!” Added the party planner cheerfully. “Let me just get in touch with Pinkie and the main square will become reinvigorated in no time.”

And with that he was already gone.

The rest of the element bearers laughed it off and went towards the Sugar Cube Corner in hopes of finding him.

Author's Note

Trixie will play a major role later in the story, a little different than her canon counterpart.

Next chapter will be an original one. A familiar face that we haven't seen in a while will come back. I wonder if you guys will guess who it will be.

See you in the next chapter.

Old faces

“-And that’s why he can’t return the book yet.” Spike told Comet, his mouth full of scrambled eggs.
“I don’t know what’s up with him. The most skilled scientist in Ponyville and he doesn’t know that you can renew the loan?”

“Beats me.” Replied the reptile after rinsing what he had in his mouth with a big sip of black tea. “Have you sent her a letter?

Uncertain silence hung in the air.

“If you promise to stop bugging me about it, you won’t have to do dishes today.” Replied Comet.
Spike giggled “I’ll be quiet as a mouse.

Suddenly someone started knocking at the door.

“I bet ten bits it’s Time Turner with another reason why he can’t return the book on time.” Said Spike smugly.
“It may also be Thunderlane. He borrowed a few books about managing a team.”

The knocking repeated itself.

“Coming!” Comet announced loudly and walked to open the door.

Nothing could prepare him for what he saw.

It was a lavender unicorn mare with dark purple mane with highlights.

“T-T-Twilight?”
“That is indeed my name. I thought you would’ve remembered by now.” She said with a cheeky grin. “Normally I would complain that you weren’t waiting for me at the station, but this stallion was enough of a gentlecolt to tell me where you live.”

Comet leaned his head out of the door to see a dark gray pegasus with a mohawk.

“Thunderlane?”
“This kind lady wanted to know where you reside and what a better way to make sure that she doesn’t get lost than to walk her directly to your home.”

The unicorn mare giggled. “I think Twilight suits me just fine, but thank you for the courtesy.”
Thunderlane smiled back. “No problem, I'm usually in the vicinity of the main square or at the eastern edge of the town. If you want to ask anything, don't be shy.”

She gave him a smile. “I surely won’t ,now that I know such nice ponies live here.”

Comet couldn’t understand why but their interactions made him feel somewhat upset. He couldn’t put a hoof on it though.

“The whole weather patrol team will train today near the Sweet Apple Acres. You and Comet are free to come and say hi.” Thunderlane spread his wings.

“Bye you two.”
“Bye!” Twilight waved to him.

With that the stallion flew off.

“So are you going to invite me inside?” Asked Twilight teasingly.

Comet thoughts returned to the present moment.

“Uh, yeah. Sorry.”

They both went in and Comet closed the door.

“Sweet Apple Acres?” Twilight seemingly asked herself while reading the wooden sign.
“I know, it has a nice ring to it, right?” Said Spike.

“Listen I know you’d probably have gone for some Hayburgers and fries so I brought you here. Your dad and Shining will probably be grateful to me for this.” Explained Comet

She rolled her eyes. “I must admit you’re starting to sound like them.”
Comet grinned. “What can I say? It’s obvious Night Light had influenced me. He has always been like a second dad to me.”

“Not that you had one in the first place.” He thought to himself gloomily.

“Howdy Comet!”

Both unicorns turned their heads to see Applejack. “Who's that lady friend o' yours now?”

The lavender mare stepped forward smiling. “Hi, the name’s Twilight Sparkle and-”

Applejack took her foreleg and started shaking it with more force than the unicorn expected.
“Howdy, Miss Twilight! We sure do love seein' new faces 'round here on Sweet Apple Acres.”

“That’s… great.” she said, trying to break her hoof free from the grip.

“Reckon you've brought us another guest for supper, ain't ya?”

The protege turned to see no one else but smiling Braeburn.

Comet sighed. “Yeah kinda awkward but Princess sent me a second assistant to surprise me. Is it cool if she joins the table besides me and Spike.?”

“Sure thing, partner! There's plenty o' food to go 'round, and any friend o' yours is a friend o' ours.” Replied Braeburn.

Soon enough all of the Apple family plus Comet, Twilight and Spike were sitting at the table digging into their hearty vegetable stews.

“I hope a mare from Canterlot like yourself don’t mind this kinda down-to-earth grub.” Applejack said to Twilight.

“Not at all. My mom comes from rhubarb farmers from the edge of Vanhoover, she cooked all the matter of rustic food that reminded her of home.”

“Your mom cooks for you?” Asked Applebloom confused. “Aren’t you from some kind of high-born? Doesn’t your family have a cook of their own”

“Well… technically yes, but mom says that sometimes the cooks don’t really make it the way it’s supposed to be. And a top of that she says she simply likes cooking.” Explained Twilight.

“No kidding.” Added Spike. “There’s no rhubarb pie like Miss Velvet’s.”

“How’d you two end up bein’ friends? A cute and polite lady like yourself, and this here egghead? Don’t seem like the usual mix.” Inquired Braeburn with a grin.

Twilight blushed slightly at the remark and Comet’s unpleasant feeling from earlier returned with double force.

“Now calm yourself, Braeburn! A mare like Twilight? Way outta your league, buddy!” Said Applejack.

The Apples and Spike laughed.

"You ought not crush his dreams like that. He's as much my grandfoal as you are, and I reckon he's meant for some mighty inconceivable feats." Replied Granny Smith.

“Thank ya, Granny. Least one member of this family’s got my back!”

Twilight grunted. “To answer your question. We met each other in a nursery school but our Friendship really started in Celestia’s School for the Gifted Unicorns.”

“Yeah, I was in big trouble and the queen of bookworms here helped me out.” Added Comet with a smile.

Twilight laughed at the remark much to her childhood friend's delight. Ever since they were foals, her laughter made his heart grow warmer, he couldn’t explain why though.

They continued to talk and joke around till the end of the feast.

“That’s the place.” Said Comet as he, Spike and Twilight stood in front of the Sugar Cube Corner.

“It looks… unorthodox.” Evaluated Twilight.
“Don’t judge the book by its cover.” Said Spike. “They have the best chocolate cake in town.”

“I second that.” Added Comet “Plus they’re coffee blend is better than I expected. Might even rival a few cafes back in Canterlot.”

All three of them entered the facility only to be greeted by a banner saying ‘Welcome to Ponyville’.

“News has reached my ears that there’s a new pony in town.” Said a stallion with brown puffy mane and yellow polo shirt, a giant grin plastered on his muzzle.

“And nopony new who enters this town is safe from a welcome party.” Added a pink mare with similar expression.

Comet chuckled. “Twilight, these are our two local party organizers Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich.

“Originally Ponyville was supposed to be a two-day stop for me but the circumstances changed.” Said the earth pony stallion with a smile.

“Try this!” Said Pinkie Pie and before anyone could intervene she shoved a spoon full of cake into Twilight’s mouth.

Although taken aback, the unicorn masticated and swallowed the treat.
It had a strong vanilla taste.

Cheese Sandwich chuckled.

“I deeply apologize for my partner’s behavior. I think we still need to talk over personal barriers.”

“That’s… fine. I like the taste of vanilla.” Twilight said, still slightly intimidated by the pink mare’s energy. “You two surely are a cheerful bunch, I’ll tell you that much.”

“That’s the best way to walk through life, Miss Sparkle. With a big grin on your muzzle.” Said the polo wearing stallion.

“And a balloon animal or two!” Added Pinkie Pie.

Twilight thought about his words.

“What about the moments when you can’t simply laugh something away?” She asked.
Comet could feel she meant something with that comment but decided to keep his mouth shut for now.

Cheese’s demeanor changed to a more serious one, but smile didn’t leave his face.

“That’s the funny thing! Sometimes, even in the darkest moments, just a little bit of joy can turn things around. When my dad died I used to feel pretty down…”

Comet could tell from the stallion’s eyes that for a moment the old memories resurfaced.

“But then it was nonpony else but my uncle Roquefort that showed me that laughter can lighten the heaviest heart.” He said returning to his usual self.

“Huh, I guess you have a point.” Said Twilight. “I guess I’m more used to solving problems with research and organization, though.”

Cheese laughed. “There’s room for both. Some ponies solve problems with lists, some with confetti cannons. The important thing is knowing when to bring out the right tools.”

He waved his hoof. “But enough about me. You two came here to eat the local treats, didn’t you?”

Spike and Comet looked at each other knowingly.

“Say, do you still have that triple-layered chocolate cake of yours?”

After stuffing themselves with copious amounts of cake and rinsing it with coffee all three of them made their way east to see the weather patrol train.

When they were back near the Sweet Apple Acres, they noticed a huge group of pegasi flying in a coordinated manner.

Comet noticed among them familiar faces. There was Thunderlane, Soarin, Cloud Chaser with Flitter, Blossomforth and-

“Fluttershy?” Comet asked himself.

“Who?” Inquired Twilight.

“Fluttershy. A really timid pegasus that lives on the southern edge. I had no idea she worked in the weather patrol.”

“Money got tight for her.”

Comet turned his head to see approaching Time Turner. “She told me that when checking up on her automatic bird feeder.”
The scientist finally noticed the mare that accompanied Spike and Comet.

“Who’s the new friend of yours?” He asked.

An idea popped inside of Comet’s head. He grinned maliciously from ear to ear.

“Well it’s your lucky day Turner, because in front of you stands Lady Twilight of house Sparkle…”

Blood rushed instantly into the face of the mare in question.

“Daughter of Night Light, lord of Star Hall and Master of the Coin on the royal council, sister of-”

“Alright I think he understands!” Twilight said red as a tomato. Everyone close to her knew that she didn’t really like to boast about her background and be in the center of attention.

Nevertheless her embarrassment was more than amusing to Comet.

Time Turner bowed his head slightly. “My apologies miss Sparkle, I didn’t know I was dealing with a lady of your status.”

He took one of her hooves and kissed it gently, making the blush reappear on her cheeks.
This didn’t amuse Comet as much.

“I am Time Turner, the local inventor and a stallion of science. Welcome to our humble abode.”

“Stallion of science, you say?” Asked Twilight. “May I ask what branch interests you the most?”

“Ehh I dabble with many things but temporal physics is something I’ve always found the most enjoyable.”

“Any reasons for that?” Inquired the lavender mare.

“Ever since I was a colt I had a fascination with the passage of time. I guess it’s my horologist father we have to thank for.”

“I see. Time can be a little cruel sometimes can’t it?”
“Oh definitely. The memories of my grandparents sagging over the years are not the most pleasant ones.

He paused for a moment. “But that’s not the only role of time. It can also connect generations and serve as a reminder of memories.”

The stallion waved his hoof “But what about you miss Sparkle? What do you dabble in?”

But before she could respond, something hit the ground with enough force to raise a cloud of dust.

“Am I amazing or am I amazing?” Asked a voice.

All four of them turned to its direction only to see Soarin.

It took a few seconds for the weather patrol pony to notice a new face.

“And just who might you be, missus?”

The mare smiled. “Twilight Sparkle, a childhood friend of Comet’s.”

The stallion whistled. “My,my a mare from Canterlot. What are you doing here in the nowheresville?”

“I’m assisting this social outcast over here.” Twilight said nudging Comet Tail lightly. “I’ve heard he is here on the assignment to make some friends.”

Soarin laughed. “I assure you he already succeeded in that regard.”

Twilight looked at them all.

“Yeah I guess, you’re right.” Although she didn’t show it, Comet could sense that something upset her.

“But our friend group can definitely expand. There’s pretty much no mares in it.”

“I would gladly join.” Said Twilight.

“Great now we have only one problem.” Soarin chuckled.

“Which is?” Asked Comet.

“Time Turner was pretty much the only egghead in Ponyville. Now we have three.”

Twilight giggled. “Is it so obvious for me?”

“I can see from way over here that you have books in your bag. That was kind of a dead giveaway.” Soarin said.

Twilight closed her satchel. “Is that going to be a problem?”

Soarin chuckled. “No unless, your attitude is as insufferable as his.”

“That is a high bar to reach.” Replied Twilight.

Everypony beside Spike laughed out loud at the mare’s remark.
With that they went on, conversing in a relaxed atmosphere.

“What a day!” Exclaimed Comet when the trio finally reached the Golden Oak Library. The sky darkened as the evening was approaching.

“I take dibs on the shower!” Shouted Spike and disappeared soon after leaving the two unicorns alone.

“Okay, what is it?” Asked Comet
“Hmm?” Replied Twilight snatched from her thoughts.

“Something has been bothering you throughout the whole day. I can see that.”
“You’re seeing things.”

“You have the exact same face you had when you accidentally burned one of Shinning’s most precious comics.”

The mare kept avoiding his sight.

“What was the fifth point of the B.F.F codex?” Comet inquired.

Now she started looking at him but still clearly down.

“I-I don’t remember.” She replied unconvincingly.

“Liar.”

She sighed. “When something’s got you really down, share it with your B.F.F, that’s what they’re here for.”

“What kind of gifted unicorn would you be, if you hadn’t adhered to the rules you have set out for yourself?” Comet said encouragingly.

She sighed again, took a deep breath and looked him directly in the eyes.

“Why didn’t you write to me?” She asked, her demeanor changing.

Out of all the questions she had to ask that one.

“I…” His eyes started wandering around the room. “Are you sure you want to talk about this.”

“Yes.” She said instantly, a hint of anger in her voice. “My best friend is sent away for more than a month and he didn’t even bother to write once. Have you forgotten my address?”

Now it was clear that the mare was genuinely angry.

“Twilight, I think you might need to calm down a little.” Said Comet Tail trying to alleviate the collateral damage.

“No, I don’t need to calm down. I need some answers!” She raised her voice and stomped her hoof on the wooden floor, almost making a hole.

“I thought to myself, maybe he is working so hard that he doesn’t have time for that. I get in the town and what do I see? He spending all this time hanging out with five ponies he just met!”

He didn’t know how to respond.

Suddenly Comet heard a sniff. Looking at Twilight he saw some wetness in her eyes.

“Is that what I am? An acquaintance that you go to when you don’t know the material on the next test? A daughter of one of the most influential ponies in Equestria? A step by which you can climb to the next social class, maybe.” Tears started dripping from her cheeks.

“You are my friend.” He replied firmly. “My best friend forever in fact.”

“You don’t act like one.” She said accusatory.

He sighed and walked forward.

“Boy I messed that one up, didn’t I?” The stallion asked himself mentally and put a hoof on his friend's shoulder.

“You’re right. I haven’t been acting like your friend for a past month. I’ve hurt you and I am sorry.”

She didn’t say anything.

“But… what if I told you, I’ve done this because I care so much about you?”

Twilight looked at him. Her eyes showed the mix of anger, sadness and confusion. “What?”

Comet took a deep breath. “Ever since we’ve met I always admired your wisdom and determination to study. Hay, I had no idea why a filly as smart as you wanted to hang out with someone as mediocre as me.”

“Because I liked you.”

“I know, but it doesn’t change the fact that this relationship didn’t go both ways. I’ve studied and improved because of your help but it didn’t benefit you. You had to put me up so many times while all I did was slow your growth.”

Comet looked her in the eyes.

“That’s why you didn’t receive any letters. I didn’t want to diminish any chances you might have at becoming the best version of yourself.”

That was half-truth. He thought to himself it was still better than lying.

She looked at him with an emotion Comet couldn’t decipher.

“Is the moment when you crack something on my head?” He asked in tongue-in-cheek manner wanting to lighten up the atmosphere.

Then something unexpected happened. Twilight hugged him.

Although initially taken aback, he soon joined in by wrapping his hooves around her.

“You’re a moron, you know that?” She asked.

“Am I? I think my train of thought is quite clear.”

She gave a smile. Something that he pleasantly welcomed.

“You’ve never slowed my growth. You’ve accelerated it. I don’t like to think about the world in which we were never friends.”

“What if you were the protege of Celestia in that world?”

She thought about it for a moment.

“Then I probably wouldn’t have as great of a friend as you.”

Great. He liked that word.

“Can I ask you something?” Said Comet.

“Always.”

“Don’t tell Shining I made you cry. I don’t I could survive that.”

Twilight started laughing so hard, it soon turned into snorting. Comet amused by the situation, joined shortly after.

Unbeknownst to them someone was watching the from the stairway. Someone purple and scaly who were supposed to be using bathroom.

Little drake smiled at the sight. He wondered if there would be a day when he finally tells her.

Author's Note

And a new face permanently joins our group. Next time we will deal with bridle gossip. I've got to be honest, if you have any ideas how to make Griffon Brush-Off distinct from original, don't be afraid to share because I don't.

Cheers

Through thick and thin

“A lil’ to the right!” Applejack said to Braeaburn and Big Macintosh as they were holding a long wooden table. They did as they were told.

“Too far, move left now!” She gave the new instruction. They both gave her a look that could kill but followed the order.

“Perfect!” She exclaimed, both stallions sighing with relief. Braeburn removed his hat.

“Are ya sure ya ain’t worryin’ yerself too much ‘bout the festival? He asked.

“I’m worried as much as I oughta be, thank ya kindly.” She replied with a pencil in her teeth writing something down on a board.

“It’s just that…” Braeburn’s eyes darted around. “Me and Mac are worried bout you. You’ve barely had anything for breakfast.

Applejack sighed. “It’s just that …everypony will be judging us extra hard if something goes wrong today… you know?”

Her cousin nodded his head in understanding. “Trust me I get it. I also once wanted to impress somepony so hard I almost lost myself.” A slight smile formed on his lips. “But then I remembered on who I can rely on.”

The mare looked at him questioningly.

“Family.” He finished.

Applejack could feel a warm feeling creeping up into her heart.

Braeburn put a hoof on her shoulder supportively. “We will always have your back, not matter what.”

“Eyyup.” Said Big Mac.

Applejack hugged both of them. “Thank you guys.”

Something suddenly hit the ground with a thud loud enough to catch the attention of the gathered Apples.

“Weather patrol is in town!”

It was Soarin standing with a wide grin and folded wings.

A new voice sounded in the air.
“It's up to your supervisor to announce the arrival of the patrol, not you.”

The farmers looked in the direction of the voice to see no one else but Thunderlane.
“But since you’ve already jumped the gun, I will just say that we’re ready to start working right away.” The pegasus said the last part looking at Applejack.

The mare smiled warmly. “Thank ya kindly for the help, Thunderlane. I promise I’ll try not t’ take up too much of y’all’s time.”

“Don’t sweat it AJ. Everypony in town wants this festival to perform well.” Said the pegasus stallion while looking at the sky. “First and foremost we need to do something with these clouds.”

“We think alike then.” Said Braeburn. “Once you guys are finished with the sky and we folks on the ground are with the stalls there will be a lunch break. Don’t be late, though otherwise there might not be any food left.”

Soarin grinned. “We’ll try our best.”

Cloud gathering proved to be easier than anypony in the weather patrol thought. Nevertheless because Thunderlane had to supervise everything the pegasi did he ate as the last of them.

He was about to place another Daffodil sandwich on his plate until he heard a familiar voice.

“First to work, last to eat, huh?”

He turned his head to see Applejack pouring herself some turnip soup.

“Guess I’m not the only one then.” He replied. “Mind if I join you at the table.”

“Not at all, sugarcube.”

They both sat down, digging into their food.

“Say Aj, what is Apple Bloom doing? Haven’t seen her anywhere today.” Thunderlane asked, wanting to start a conversation.

“She’s helpin’ Granny Smith with the baked goods. Didn’t want her hurtin’ herself. We were workin’ with wood and metal nails, after all.”

He chuckled. “Guess that makes you a better older sibling than me. When Rumble told me he wanted to move the clouds with us I didn’t give it much of a thought.”

“Not at all. Puttin’ up a stall’s a whole lot more dangerous for an Earth pony foal than movin’ clouds ‘round is for the young pegasus. And we both know what happens when ya say no to a foal.”

“Wonder if fillies are any different in that regard than colts.” Said Thunderlane.
“No idea. I only had an older brother.”

“Wanna trade?”

The mare chuckled. “As temptin’ as it is sometimes, I’m gonna say no. I don’t reckon there’s anypony who could guide Apple Bloom through life better’n me.”

“How do you even do that?”

“Do what, Sugarcube?”

“Manage to run such a huge farm while taking care of a ten year old foal. I know from first hoof experience how draining that is. And on top of that you’re able to take head on a second challenge of running a family business. That’s nothing short of amazing.

Applejack could feel blood running to her cheeks. “Thank ya kindly, Thunder, but like ya said, this is a family business. We all look after each other. I reckon from yer words that you, on the other hoof, take care of Rumble all on yer own?”

The stallion nodded and his mood changed almost instantly.

“Don’t mean to be nosy, but I reckon yer parents ain’t in the picture?”

He nodded again. “They’re… both gone.”

Applejack’s face turned to that of compassion. She put a hoof on his shoulder. “I get ya. Better than anypony in town, probably.”

“Do you remember that Hurricane near Manehattan eight years ago?” Thunderlane asked the mare.

She nodded.

“Mom and dad were part of the Ponyville weather patrol that was sent there to minimize the collateral damage…” He sighed. “They were one of the fourteen that didn’t make it back to their homes.”

Applejack lowered her head, clearly shaken by the revelation. “Ah’m terribly sorry to hear that. Sugarcube”

He tried to force a smile. “Nah, it’s been eight years already. I’m past that already.”
The mare thought about his words.

“Ain’t nothin’ to be ashamed of. I don’t think I’m past the death of my parents, either.”

He looked at her surprised by her words. “Really? I would’ve never noticed myself.”

“Because I need to put up a facade of a strong older sister for Apple Bloom, but when I’m all alone-”

“You want to curl up in a ball and contemplate how life could’ve been if your folks were still around?”

She nodded silently. “And the pain is stronger every time I think about them.”

Thunderlane chuckled morbidly. “Yeah we’re definitely more alike than I thought.”

“We’ve sure found ourselves a real fun topic of conversation, huh?” She joined with a similar gloomy laughter.

“Appplejack!” Braeburn’s voice rang out in the autumn air.

“I’m afraid that’s my cue to get back to work.” Said the mare in question.

“Same thing with me. I better get going before Rumble comes up with another way to prematurely end his life.”

Applejack snorted and laughed, this time genuinely.

They started to go their own ways.

“Thunderlane?” Inquired Applejack.

Pegasus looked back at the mare.

“Thanks.”

Stallion gave her an encouraging smile. “You’re welcome.”

“Whaddya mean, cancel the festival ?!”
“Don’t go puttin’ words in my mouth. Ah didn’t say cancel, Ah said postpone.” Applejack explained to her disgruntled little sister.

Braeburn walked up to both of them.

“Have y’all found anything?” Asked the mare.

The stallion shook his head. “Not yet. Me and Soarin are taking east. Comet and Big Mac will go west?”

“Do you really have to, if none of you have found any of them ?” Inquired Apple Bloom, silently hoping that everything could return back to normal.

“Sorry, squirt, but Timberwolf sightings can’t be taken lightly. If there’s even a chance somepony could get hurt, we gotta investigate first ‘fore we allow any more fun.” Said Braeburn gently but firmly.

Applejack sighed. “Are ya certain ya gotta go with Soarin'? I need another adult here on the farm in case somethin' happens.”

“Wouldn’t ya know, I already thought o’ that. Cheese Sandwich’ll help ya set up safety measures in case anythin’ happens. I hope ya don’t mind lookin’ after Rumble for a spell, neither.”

“At least I won’t die of boredom.” Said Apple Bloom somewhat uplifted.

The mare bit her lip nervously. “Oh… ok”

The stallion noticed immediately. “What’s the problem? Ya afraid ya won’t be able to keep Rumble under control? If ya got any questions ‘bout him, ya can always ask Thunderlane ‘fore he leaves.”

“No, Rumble’s fine, he’s a good kid from what I’ve seen, if a bit unruly. It’s Cheese I’m worried about.”

Braeburn raised his eyebrow. “What’s wrong with Cheese?”

“Nothin’. He’s a great guy an’ all, it’s just that... he ain’t exactly the pony I’d trust with foals. Not to mention, I ain’t entirely sure he’s got his head screwed on the right way.”

Before her cousin could reply Thunderlane landed next to them with a large bag over his shoulders, his little brother accompanying him.

“Alright, I have everything I need. We can get going.” Said the pegasus stallion. Almost immediately after these words left his mouth he noticed something was clearly wrong. The tension hung up in the air.

“Is everything okay?” He asked. As a head of the weather patrol he knew the importance of keeping the morale high among the ponies participating. One weak link and everything can come crashing down.

“I’m a little skeptical ‘bout leavin’ Cheese Sandwich here on the farm. I think I need somepony else for the job.”

Thunderlane listened to her words, understanding what she meant by that, all too well. An idea entered his mind.

“What if me and Cheese switched?” He asked.

Applejack thought for a moment. “I could work with that.”

“You sure Thunder?” Asked Braeburn. “You were really eager to go earlier.”

“I was because I thought this was the best solution, but seeing that not everypony would be content I changed my mind. I’m sure Cheese will do fine in my place.”

The male Apple nodded his understandingly. “Alright I’ll leave you guys to it.” And with that he left to inform the rest of the group about the change of plans.

Thunderlane turned his head to Applejack, grinning. “So… I take it you guys have a couch to spare for a good ol’ me.”

Soon enough all four of them were sitting in the living room sipping on hot beverages. Hot chocolate for the foals, tea for Applejack and black coffee for Thunderlane in order to keep him vigilant. It was after all getting pretty dark outside.

“Sorry, Rumble, but in this house, ain’t nopony got time to be playin’ any o’ them video games.” The orange mare explained to the colt.

“That’s… no problem really.” He replied out of courtesy but couldn’t help feeling a little disappointed. Everytime he went for a sleepover at Button Mash house, they would spend most of the night playing them so it started to feel like a natural thing after a while.

“Good. You and your friends spend way too much time in front of these things. I don’t want you to develop some kind of eye problem early in life.

A little spark of anger appeared in Rumble’s mind, but before it could turn into a fire, Apple Bloom decided to blow off some steam.

“We can play some good old-fashioned games instead.” Said the filly. Applejack immediately understood what her intentions were.

“Well then, I reckon it’s time to bring out the big guns.” The mare said smiling.

This caused Apple Bloom to trot out the room giggling.

“Big guns?” Asked Thunderlane intrigued.

“You’ll see.” The mare said smirking.

Soon enough Apple Bloom was back in the room with a large box in her mouth. She put it down on the table.

“Don’t tell me…” Started Thunderlane

“What? What is it?” The thing now had Rumble’s full attention.

“Mono-Pony.” Said the orange mare proudly.

“It used to be really popular when me and Applejack were your age. It’s really hard to come across a physical copy nowadays.” Thunderlane looked at the mare dumb-founded. “Where did you get this?

“Eh, Ah badgered Pa into buyin it. Crazy what a 10-year-old filly can do.”

“What are the rules ?” Asked Rumble. His older brother started unpacking the game.

“Whoever’s the last one to run outta money wins.” Exclaimed Apple Bloom excited.

Applejack chuckled. “That’s the gist of it.” She said and went on to explain the rules of the game in more detail.

After that all of them sit down to finally play.

“Hey! You’re on my spot!” Said Rumble angrily.
“Was.” Replied Thunderlane smugly. “If you want me to pay, you need to focus.”

“He’s right, Rumble.” Said Applejack “Yah need to speak up before the dice is rolled again.”

Young colt mumbled something under his breath but decided it wasn’t worth arguing over.
“Don’t worry, ah also had a problem with this at the beginning.” Apple bloom cheered him up.

After all it was Applejack who had won, Apple Bloom coming at the close second. Rumble’s face remained neutral. It was hard to determine whether or not he enjoyed the game.

The Applejack clapped her hooves. “So… what are we playing next?”

“Okay, so… I don’t like the taste of apples, I’m scared of spiders, I’ve won Cloudsville junior flight competition once.” Said Thunderlane.

The young ones started thinking but the answer came pretty earlier.

“For somepony who hates apples, you sure like to stockpile the jam made out of them.” Said Applejack almost instantly with a smug.

Stallion shrugged his arms. “It’s been over a year since I bought a jar. I thought you might have contracted memory loss by then.”

The mare chuckled at the remark. Thunderlane thought that he wouldn’t mind her doing that more often.

“Okay! My turn now!” Said Rumble now seemingly more engaged in the games.

Not long after that both foals were peacefully sleeping in their respective beds.

“I must admit, I thought that Rumble snored loud, but he has nothing on Apple Bloom.”

Applejack smiled. “Apparently she takes that after mom. Or so I’ve been told by granny smith.”

“Don’t you think she might be little biased when it comes to her daughter in law.” Asked Thunderlane teasingly.

“Ah’m not.”

They turned their heads in the direction of the voice. It was the matriarch of the Apple family.

“Granny Smith, I.. I.”

“The sound easily carries along these corridors, colt.” She said but without any malice. “I understand why ya’d think that, though.”

“Before she died grandma didn’t really get along with my mom.” Said Thunderlane trying to explain himself.

“Yeah, I was a bit skeptical of my daughter-in-law at first as well, but after gettin to know ‘er…” Granny Smith sighed dreamily. “She was the closest I ever got to havin’ a daughter. Ya start appreciatin’ that after raisin’ two colts.”

“Two?” Asked the pegasus.

“Unlce Pippin, Braeburn’s daddy.” Explained Applejack.

“Anyhow, I think I’m gonna head out now, my eyelids are gettin’ heavier. Y’all youngins make sure not to stay up too late, ya hear?”

With that she left the room.

“I wish I got to know my grandma a little better before she passed.” Said the pegasus stallion.

“How old were you when she died?” Asked the apple farmer.

“Six, Rumble never got a chance to meet her.”
“Ah’m sorry sugarcube.” Said Applejack.

“Eh, It’s fine. Now that I’m the only living relative he has left I’ve got to be his role model. Which is hard because that colt can be really stubborn when he wants to be.”

“Tell me about it.” The mare replied. “They always know better than us, huh?”

“You have to be their parent yourself, despite lacking in the life knowledge department.”

“They deserve the best.”

“True that.”

Silence hung in the air.

“Do you wanna know?” Asked Applejack suddenly.

Thunderlane was not following. “Know what?”

“How ma and pa died, you told me what happened to your parents, so…”

His curiosity piqued but he decided to do what was appropriate.

“It’s up to you. I don’t want you to relive any painful memories.”

“No, that’s fine. You... feel like a stallion I can confide in.”

She swallowed the lump in the throat.

“Nine years ago, the Apple branch in Appleloosa requested that another member of the family come supervise the new cultivar of apples that Uncle Pipp invented. Naturally, Pa decided to go, ‘cause he couldn’t turn down a plea for help from his own brother. Mom went with him, since it’d been a while since she’d seen Auntie Red Delicious.”

The mare’s voice started shaking slightly.

“They took a train n’…” She stoped, feeling something form in her throat again.

A memory has entered Thunderlane’s memory.

“The train, derailed and killed half of the passengers on it?” Asked Thunderlane.

The mare nodded, tears tapping on the wooden floor.

He put a hoof on her shoulder. “Remember, if you ever want want to talk about it… I’ll be open for a conversation.

Then something unexpected happened happened.
She went forward and hugged.

Thunderlane’s heart started racing and his mind went haywire but eventually he returned the gesture.

They stayed like that for moment, until Applejack decided to speak up.

“Thunder?”

“Hmm?”

“You get me.”

The stallion thought about it for a moment.

“Yeah. I guess I do.”

Author's Note

I had to take a little break. Life I suppose. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. It has sown the seeds for the future.

Next time over a barell.

Cheers.

Over a Barell

“Thought I’d find you here.”

Braeburn turned his head in the direction of the voice to see nopony else but Comet Tail.

“Not that you’d have a lot of places to hide on a train.” Added the unicorn.

The earth pony stallion was currently sitting in a train compartment rented for the apple tree transport. It was a bizarre scene as the tree was laid on a soft bed normally intended for ponies, but Braeburn has already learned not to question Applejack’s ideas.

“I just wanted a little time alone with somethin’ that reminds me of family.” Said the apple farmer.

“Well good thing we’re about to see you parents.” Said Comet Tail.

Braeburn thought for a moment.

“Yeah, good thing.”

The royal protege could sense something was wrong.

“What is it?” He asked his friend.

“What’s what?” Asked the earth pony stallion.

“The real reason why you’re coming back home. I’ve never seen The Apples sending a whole tree away and during most of the trip you seemed distant and unreachable. Not to mention that your family already grows apple trees in their orchard. This whole thing seems like a convenient excuse for you to go back to Appleoosa without raising suspicions.”

The farmer stayed silent.

“Do you feel lonely without your parents?” Asked the unicorn.

Braeburn shook his head. “It’s complicated.”

“What is?”

“Mah problem.” Replied Braeburn with a small hint of anger in his voice. “It’s somethin’ I gotta solve myself, and I don’t appreciate other ponies stickin’ their noses in my private life..”

The unicorn was slightly off put by his friends attitude but decided to respect his wishes.

“I ‘ll be back in our compartment. Twilight has decided to organise some kind of trivia game. You’re free to join us of course.”

“I’ll consider it.”

Comet Tail nodded his head and headed back where he came from, leaving his friend alone.

Finally in the evening Braeburn joined the compartment with the rest of his travel companions. It was buzzing with conversations.

“Good to see you again.” Said Timer Turner. “We’ve started worrying about you.”

“No need to, I’m fine.” Replied the farmer.

“When there’s everything fine with somepony they don’t usually drift off somewhere mid conversation.” Said Soarin snarkily.

Braeburn was about to tell him off but got interrupted.

“Leave him alone.” Twilight interfered. “If he wanted us to know what bugged him he would’ve told us. Respect his choice.”

Soarin raised his hooves. “Alright, my bad.”

An irritated groan could be heard.

“Do you guys mind? I was up early fire-roasting those snacks you're all eating, and I'm pooped.”

“Sorry Spike, I promise we’ll try to keep it down.” Said Thunderlane diplomatically.

Little drake nodded his head and covered himself with the blanket.

“He has a point.” Said Comet Tail. “We all have a long day ahead of us tomorrow, it’s high time we get some shut - eye.”

“Agreed.” Added Twilight turning off the lamp.

All of the stallions gave their own version of goodnight.

It wasn't long before the silence was interrupted.

“Psst. Thunder? Are you asleep?” Whispered Soarin.

“Nopony falls asleep in ten seconds.” The stallion in question replied in a hushed tone.

“Do you have any idea why Braeburn keeps acting like that?”

“Beats me. But that’s not our place to pry.”

“Do you think he argued with his parents.”
“Again. None of our business.”

“Whatcha guys talking about?” Asked Cheese Sandwich joining the conversation.

“We wonder what’s up with Braeburn.”

“You do. Leave me out of this.” Said Thunderlane.

“Why? What’s wrong with being concerned about your friend?” The party pony wondered out loud.

“That’s not what I-” Thunderlane sighed, irritated. “It’s clear he has some issues that he needs to think about alone.”

“What are you all blabbering about?” Asked Time Turner, slightly irritated. “We all agreed to go to sleep, haven't we?”

“We’re considering either helping Braeburn with his problem, or leaving it to him?”

“He has some kind of problem?” The inventor inquired, his interest piqued.

“Oh for Pete’s sake!” Spike exclaimed angrily. He jumped out of his bed, pillow in his right claw.

After reaching the end of the compartment he slammed the doors shut.

“Someone’s in a bad mood.” Muttered Soarin.

Suddenly a light snoring filled the air. Thunderlane looked in the direction of the sound and smiled. “Looks like at least two ponies will get a good night of sleep.”

It was both Twilight and Comet Tail snoozing in their beds, drool leaking from their mouths.

“So it is possible to fall asleep in ten minutes.” Said Soarin smirking.

The next morning sun rays started creeping through the compartments windows, illuminating softly the interior, gently waking up some of the ponies.

Soon enough however all of them were awake as something hit the side of the wagon with a tremendous force.

“What the hay was that?” Asked Soarin confused.

Cheese Sandwich looked through the window.

“Looks like we found new friends outside!” He exclaimed cheerfuly.
Comet decided to take a look to have a better idea what the party planner was talking about.

He saw a rather large buffalo stampede.

“Fascinating.” Said Twilight. “I’ve never had any first - hoof encounter with the buffalos.”

“Ah had.” Said Braeburn, Comet Tail noticed the visible unease on the farmer’s muzzle. “We need to tell train driver to go faster.”

“Why?” Inquired Comet Tail wondering what his friend is hiding.

“They are getting awfully close to the train.” Noted Thunderlane.

Not long after these words left the dark stallion’s mouth one of the buffalos struck the compartment with his shoulder shaking it again.

Some of the ponies lost their balance again.

“Wow! Now they’re doing tricks!” Shouted Cheese Sandwich, his good mood unchanged.

Soarin looked at what the earth pony was referring to. He saw two buffalos making a tower. After a few seconds the last member joined. It was a younger representative of the species. A young cow with short horns protruding from the sides of her head, a tuft of her with lighter shade of fur on her head. She jumped on the top of the compartment, making her presence known with the sound of hooves hitting the metal ceiling.

“I thought she was going to do a backflip.” Said the party planner sounding somewhat disappointed.

“I think it’s the time for the fastest of us to reconnoitre.” Said Soarin

He flew out of the train and landed a few meters in front of the young buffalo to give her time to stop. Wind was whistling in his ears.

He looked at her with an inviting smile. “Hello there.”

She noticed him and gasped but seemingly decided to keep on going.

Knowing that he wouldn’t win with the running bovine, Soarin flew away at the last second.

“Rude.” He muttered to himself.

He started flying next to her.

“You’re moving quite fast for someone your build. No offense, of course.”

She didn’t reply to him.

Soarin decided to try his luck again. He tried talking again, putting himself in front of her.

“Listen I just wanna know-” This time she went around him.

Stallion could feel getting angry.

He decided to to do it one more time.

“Hey! I’m talking to-”

Before he could finish the cow jumped over him making a flip midair.

Now he has had it with her.

The pegasus started flying behind the buffalo trying to catch the uninvited guest, but as he accelerated so did the bovine.

She started slowing down.

“Got you now.” He muttered.

But before he could catch up to her, she jumped down between two compartments, making him hit the crossbuck with the force strong enough to fall down to earth.

“Uggh.” The pegasus groaned.

In the meantime the young buffalo disconnected the last compartment of the train.
She jumped on the top, put a hoof to her mouth and let out a loud whistle.

The rest of the buffalos scattered and joined the younger one, pushing the wagon in the opposite direction to where the train was going.

“Isn’t that the compartment where Spike was sleeping?” Asked Thunderlane.

Comet Tail, nodded terrified.

The young drake walked up to the window, screaming for help.

Braeburn remained silent watching as the wagon getting smaller and smaller.

And during this time his sight locked with the one belonging to a young cow. Deep sadness in both of their eyes.

None of them said anything because both of them knew no words would fix this.

Soarin started picking himself up in time to see the whole ordeal.

“Okay… I see how it is.”
He spread his wings and started slowly gliding behind the bovines.

As soon as they arrived in Appleoosa the remaining mane six and Twilight, quickly get off the bus wanting to start the search as quick as possible, not knowing what waits for them ahead.

The group was stopped by a pair of smiling ponies on the platform. One of them was a mare with deep maroon coat and green eyes. The other was a stallion that was a spitting image of Braeburn, if it wasn’t for a beard and a few gray hairs here and there.

“‘Bout time ya showed up. Your train was six minutes late.” Said the stallion teasingly.

“Dad, listen-”

“Are your companions perhaps the five friends you’ve made back in Ponyville?” The mare asked curiously eyeing the group, smile not leaving her muzzle.

“Can’t be. He wrote ‘bout five stallions, and here I see a charm in’ young mare.” Said Braeburn’s father.

Twilight blushed slightly at the compliment. “Thank you.”

The red mare nudged her companion. “Stop that Pippin, you’re going to make her feel embarrassed.”

She looked at Twilight warmly. “What’s your name, sweetie?”

“Twilight Sparkle” Answered the mare in question.

“Lovely name darling. My name’s Red Delicious, but you all can just call me Red.

“Okay mom, now that the names are out of the way-” Started Braeburn but got interrupted again.

“No, they’re not.” Said Pippin. “We still don't know the names of the rest of you compadres.”

His son groaned in irritation.

The rest of the groups introduced themselves.

“Ooh, I take it you’re the star pupil of her highness then?” Braeburn’s mother asked Comet Tail.

“That would be me, but I don’t know about the star pupil part.” Replied the unicorn.

“You’re literally her protege. Stop selling yourself short.” Twilight told her childhood friend.

“She’s right, you know?” Said Red delicious. “I can only imagine how proud your mother must be.
“She does say that awfully often.” Comet confessed.

Braeburn made a sound that was something between a neigh a growl.

“We don’t have time for this!” He shouted. “Our friend is missin!”

The expression on the two older ponies faces changed immediately. They gave each other a quick worried look.

“Does it have something to do with-” Started Pippin

“Yes.” Replied Braeburn quickly.

Thunderlane burrowed his eyebrows. “Okay that’s it. Can you quit it with all that mysterious act and just tell what the hay is going on ?!” The pegasus asked while angrily looking at the element of honesty.

“What? You haven’t told your friends why you’re here?” Pippin asked his son.

“No, he kindly left that part out.” Comet Tail said sarcastically.

The youngest apple farmer sighed. “Ah guess there’s no way to walk around the issue now?”

“You need to tell us everything. Every detail matters.” Said Twilight, a sense of urgency on her muzzle.

“I reckon the best course o’ action would be listenin’ to us as well.” Proposed Braeburn’s father. “Let’s talk all this over some coffee and Red’s apple pie.”

Twilight smiled. “Good idea Mr. Pippin.”

Cheese Sandwich looked around confused.

“Ehh, Guys?” He asked. “Have any of you seen Time Turner?”

Soarin hid himself behind the nearest rock, listening carefully for any buffalos nearby. He knew he was close to them, he’s been following them for a few hours after all.

Now all there was to do is wait for them to fall asleep, locate Spike and-

“Do you have any actual plan or are you planning to just barge in into their camp?”

The sudden voice almost gave the pegasus a heart attack and caused him to gasp louder than he planned.

The stallion turned his head to see it was his friend Time Turner.

“Never… ever do that again.” Said Soarin unamused.
“Sorry for that. Ever since I was a colt my parents told have been telling me that I have a light hoovefall.”

“Answering your question, no. I don’t plan to just barge into their camp. I’ll wait till the nightfall. When they’re all asleep I will snatch Spike and get out of here. If Faust will be merciful I won’t have to save your sorry flank later.”

“And how silently can you walk? The bison have poor eyesight but their hearing is better than mine or yours, especially when it comes to the lower frequencies.”

“I’ll fly off before that.”
“They’ll hear you long before you move your wings.”

“How do you know?”
“Because I’ve heard you long before you saw me. It’ll be a piece of cake for them.”

The pegasus sighed. “I guess we have a problem then?”
“Not necessarily.” Replied Time Turner. “We wait for them to fall asleep, just as you planned, however instead of you, it will be me who retrieves Spike. They won’t hear me coming. After that’s done you’ll fly him to the Appeloosa.”

“What about you?”
“I’ll manage on my own.”

Before Soarin could ask any further questions, the sound of exhaled air.

They turned their heads to see a very unamused adult bison looking at them.

Time Turner leaned over to his pegasus friend. “I think I might have an idea how to take him out.”

Just as he said that, more and more buffalos started emerging from behind the rocks with nothing but anger painted on their muzzles.

Soarin changed his position to a defensive one. He furrowed his brows, trying to look as intimidating as possible.

“Run, I’ll hold them off as long as I can.” Said the pegasus.

“As if. I’m not going to let my friend die.” Time Turner replied adopting a similar pose.
The bison burrowed their hooves in the ground and with a roar started charging.

“Just so you know, it’s an honour going out with you by my side.” Said Soarin grinning mischievously.
“My sentiments, exactly.” Replied Timer Turner.

Although none of them said it out loud, both of them wish they had spend a little more time with certain mares before their departure.

“Stop!” A very familiar voice sounded in the air. All of the buffalos stopped simultaneously.

Both stallions had a hard time believing their ears.

“Soarin, Doctor, sup?” The little drake asked nonchalantly, standing between the bison. “No worries, I know those guys, they’re cool.” Spike said to one of the bovines.

“If you say so, Spike.” The buffalo gave him a fistbump. “Catch ya later bro.” And with that the herd of the big mammals run off in their direction, leaving the two ponies utterly confused.

“I have questions.” Said Soarin.

Spike shrugged his arms. “They’ll all be answered in time. But before that you two will have to prepare for a long trip.”

“Where are we going?” Asked Time Turner.

“Meet chief Thunderhooves.”

“So let me get this straight.” Said Comet Tail while sitting with his friends in Braeburn’s childhood home. “You and buffalos and Trotsville actually used to actually trade with each other. It was after you’ve planted an orchard on their holy ground that the big guys got upset?”

“Roughly speakin, yeah.” Replied Pippin.

“Can’t you guys like… replant it somewhere else?” Asked Thunderlane.

“That’s out of the question.” Braeburn’s father replied firmly but kindly. “The first seeds have been sown by the town’s founder Fameuse, that patch of the ground is the only place, where the trees can grow.”

“Fameuse?” Did he come from Prance?”

“Aye.” Said Braeburn “But he was kind enough not to force Dad and Uncle Bright Mac to learn Prench.”
“Oh.” Said Comet Tail. “Not everypony can brag about their family founding two cities.”

“It’s more of the curse with this Faust-forgotten hole, really.” Replied Braeburn gloomily.

His father gave him a stern look but said nothing.

“You guys have quite the situation on your hooves.” Said Twilight empathetically.

Pippin sighed. “I like them buffalo folks, I really do, but we can’t just sit idle while they start tearin’ down our apple trees. This’ll mess up trade in the whole area. Without apples, we lose fine fabrics, coal, and, most importantly, wheat. And forget about buffalo wool—without it, we’re stuck importin’ more expensive coats from up north come winter.”

Braeburn closed his eyes deep in the reverie. “When did things become so complicated?”

“Braeburn, stay close to me.” Said Red Delicious, the young colt nodded his head showing his mother he understands, although it was hard for him to contain his excitement.

He has never seen a buffalo from up close, so Red’s offer to accompany her and meet the mysterious bovines left him both thrilled and a little afraid.

After a few minutes they were close enough to he the market to make out the individual vendors and their clients. Including a small group of Bisons.

“Hello there, Silent Wind.” Red Delicious said to one of the bisons. “I take it you had a pleasant journey from your camp.”

“As always.” Replied the buffalo with a clearly feminine voice, indicating she was a cow. A warm smile gracing her muzzle.

It was then that she noticed a colt hiding behind Red. “And who might be this little pony over there?”

Upon hearing this Braeburn gulped silently.

His mother giggled and pushed him to the front.

“This handsome stallion over here is my Braeburn.” The mare said proudly.

“Pippin would have had hard time denying being his father.” Concluded Silent Wind.

She walked forward to him. The colt instinctively took a step back.

“Don’t worry little one, I’m not going to hurt you.” The bison chuckled. “How old are you anyway?”

He looked at his mother who gave him a nudge to speak up.

“E-eight years ma'am.” The colt croaked out.

“Eight years and two months to be exact.” Corrected his mother with pride in her voice. “He’s almost a stallion now”

“Must be hard on you raising an eight year old, Red. I should now.” Said the bison cow.

Before Braeburn could question what she meant by that a new bison suddenly appeared, that one was a female calf with an excited smile. Unlike her older counterpart she didn’t wear a feather.

“Mom, mom! I have already unpacked all the goods, can we make a few circles around the town?”

“Not now honey, I need to run some errands first with Ms. Delicious over here first.”

An idea entered the older bison’s mind. “Actually, shouldn’t you introduce yourself first.”

It was then that the calf noticed Red Delicious and Braeburn. She bowed her head respectfully.

“I’m sorry, I was so excited that I didn’t notice you two.”

“Ehh, don’t worry sweetheart.” Said the maroon mare unphased. “As you’ve heard my name’s Red Delicious.”

She now put her arm on her son. “And this is Braeburn.”

“Hi.” The colt said shyly, intimidated by the new mammals.

“Hi! I’m Strongheart. Some buffalo call me Little Strongheart due to mi sie though.” The calf said enthusiastically. “You must know how it feels like. I’ve never seen a pony this little before.”

Braeburn’s pride was slightly wounded by that comment. “Ah’m an average size for a colt.” He replied defensively.

His mother giggled. “I’m sure she didn’t mean any disrespect, Bray.”

“Actually why don’t you two go play with each other.” Suggested Silent Wind. “Me and Red have to do a few things that would probably bore you.”

“Sure.” Said Little Strongheart grinning.

Red Delicious looked at her son questioningly.

“Ehmm… sure.” Said the young colt, uncertainty seeping through.

The calf smiled and then bolted with a speed of light in the right the direction.

“Whoever reaches the edge of the town last is a rotten egg!” She shouted.

“H-hey! No fair!” Replied Beaeburn trying to catch up.

Both of their mothers laughing at the interaction.

“So what’s up with these trees growing there?” Asked Little Strongheart while pointing at them with her hoof.

“That’s an orchard. It’s where we grow our apples.” Replied Braeburn still catching his breath after their race. He had to confess he had never seen somecreature so fast. It was more than impressive.

“Oh yeah I wonder where these red fruit come from. We don’t have that back home, we only have cacti”

“Cacti?” Asked the colt confused. “Ain’t it all… spiky?”

“Their fruit is not.” Said the calf. “Nana used to make the best prickly pear jam until she…” She stopped for a moment, her good mood vanishing almost instantly.

Braeburn immediately catched on to what was happening. He put his hoof on her shoulder empathetically.

“I’m sorry for your loss. I know what it’s like.”

“Really?”

“Yeah I remember feeling really down once grandpa Fameuse passed away. Everything seemed sadder now that we knew we’ll never hear any of his jokes again.”

Braeburn smiled slightly. “But as I started remembering him again, the good mood returned. He wouldn’t want me to despair over his death. He wanted me to remember all the fun we had together. I think your grandma wouldn’t want nothing more than to celebrate the time you’ve spent with her.”

The young cow smiled back at him. “Thanks, you're a good friend.”

Braeburn looked at her surprised. “Really you consider me friend?”

She shrugged her arms. “Why not? We stampeded together, you’ve told me about pony culture and now you’re comforting me when I have a hard time. I’m pretty sure that’s what friends do.”

“Does that mean that I’ll get a feather as well since we’re friends?” Asked Braeburn, wishing it was true.

Little Strongheart giggled. “You can put on a feather anytime you want but I have to grow up first.”

“Why?”

“Because that’s our coming-of-age ceremony. Once I get my feather it will symbolize that I will no longer be a calf but a grown up buffalo.”

A thought entered Braeburn’s mind. “Little Strongheart?”

“Hmm?”

“Do you think we can stay friends? We don’t really live next to each other. I’ll stay here and you and the rest of the buffalo’s will head to the valley.”

“Pfft! Don’t be silly.” Said the calf cheerfully. “Even though us not seeing each other every day doesn’t change the fact that we are friends. And besides today’s probably not the last day that we will see each other.”

“You think so?”

The young cow nodded her head. “Mom says that buffalo and ponies have never been as close as before. Who knows? Maybe in a few years we will be neighbours.”

The foal smiled at the thought. “I would like that very much.”

She showed him a toothy grin. “That’s the spirit! Now-”

She bolted away suddenly.

“Try to catch me before we reach the bazaar!”

He started sprinting as fast as he could.

“Again?! Not fair!” The colt said but couldn’t help himself from smirking.

Back in the present Thunderlane energetically re-entered Braeburn’s family home.

Everyone inside started paying attention to him.
“They’re here.” He said.

All of them left the building to see Soarin, Time Turner and Spike in the distance. Accompanying them were two buffalos. One of them was older ang gruff looking male with a spectacular war bonnet on his head. The other one was a younger female with headband and a singular feather.

“I thought for a moment you were a goner.” Comet Tail said grinning to Soarin and ruffing ups Spike’s head crest affectionately.

“I’m not that easy to get rid of, dude.” The pegasus replied humorously.

The older buffalo grunted loudly trying to catch everyone’s attention.

“I hope you don’t mind but we ‘ve promised buffalos a chance to talk.” Explained Time Turner.

“Bout what?” Asked Pippin suspiciously.

“Well…” Started Little Strongheart but she was quickly interrupted.
“Uproot all the apple trees you unlawfully planted on our sacred land and let us continue a tradition that we were forced to abstain from for the last eighty.” Chief Thunderhooves said cooly.

“Or what?” Inquired Braeburn’s father confrontationally.
“Dad…” His son tried to alleviate the situation.

“If we don’t find the area cleaned of this…” Thunderhooves spat while talking. “...weeds, we WILL flatten them and the town. There will be nothing but rubble and tumbleweeds left.”

“Chief…” Whispered Little Strongheart.

“An’ We say you better bring your best because we Appleoosans have our dignity and livelihood to uphold an won’t kneel down under the threats of a criminal like you!” Said Pippin passionately.

“Shouldn’t we leave this kind of declaration to sheriff Silverstar?” Asked Comet in a concerned voice.

“Very well.” Replied the chief of buffalos. “Looks like our work here is done. We will arrive tomorrow at noon.”

He turned in his tracks “Let’s go Little Strongheart.”

“I’ll… join you in a minute chief.” Said the younger bovine in a sad tone. Her older superior started walking away becoming smaller and smaller.

The young buffalo and Braeburn looked at each other.

“I don’t know what we will make of this but either way I’m glad to see you again.” She confessed.

“Thanks.” He replied, slightly moved by her words.

“Is there really no other way to solve this?” Asked Twilight.

“I’m afraid that as long as there are apple trees on our stampeding grounds the chief and the rest of the tribe won’t budge.” Said Little Strongheart.

“When it comes to the worst, how are Appleoosans even supposed to defend themselves?” Asked Thunderlane.

“Sheriff Silverstar predicted that such a situation may occur and wrote to the garrison stationing somewhere in the Badlands.” Explained Pippin. “Reinforcements should arrive tomorrow.”

“Aren’t you afraid of laying out such a vital information to someone you consider an enemy?” Asked Little Strongheart cautiously.

Pippin sighed. “Ah don’t consider you buffalos enemies. It’s one o’ those tragic situations where no creature can be fully pleased. I still have fond memories of Silent Wind—may Faust watch over her soul.”

“Thank you.” She replied. Suddenly her ears perked up. “Actually, something just popped into my mind.”

Shortly after they all returned to Appleoosa, including Little Strongheart. Upon re-entering they noticed an important change had occurred.

The town’s population increased by about thirty ponies all of them clad in armor.

“These are the reinfrorcements?” Asked Thunderlane surprised. “I expected it to be… bigger.”

“Quantity doesn’t always mean quality.”

They turned into the direction of the voice to see an orange pegasus with a blue mane combed backwards. His cutie mark was a blue shield with lightning bolt and he was wearing the same armor as the rest of the soldiers.

“We didn’t mean any disrespect, sir.” Said Twilight apologetically.

“No worries. I completely understand the sentiment, given the circumstances.” Replied the pegasus calmly.
“We need to talk with the pony in charge.” Said Soarin. “Like, right now.”

“And who are all of you?” Asked the gambogee pegasus.

Comet stepped forward.

“My name is Comet Tail, I am the protege of her majesty, my friends are the newly anointed Elements of Harmony.”

Twilight cleared her throat.

“And of course I can’t forget about my assistant Twilight and my brother Spike.”

The pegasus squinted his eyes. “Hmm.Unicorn with yellow coat, blue mane, falling star - shaped cutie mark and a dragon companion? Yeah you check all the boxes.”

The pegasus nodded his head. “If you want to talk with a pony charge you’ve already found him. Lieutenant Flash Sentry to your service.”

“Thanks liuetenant but I think you might want to talko to somecreature before deciding on any next moves.” Said Comet Tail.

The group dispersed showing quite anxious Little Strongheart.

Flash’s ears perked up, his eyes showed strong interest.

“I’m all ears.”

Next day at noon the sun was the highest it could be, scorching the land below. Most of the ponies were hiding inside their homes. But not the element bearers and Flash and his platoon. They and a few other ponies were waiting.

And they didn’t have to wait long as soon after the buffalos emerged. A mass of fur horns and hooves looking at the town and it’s inhabitants. About two hundreds adult bulls and cows were standing on the hills in front of Appleoosa, waiting for the signal.

But before chief Thunderhooves could issue the attack something unexpected happened.

Sheriff Silverstar cleared his throat.

“Chief Thunderhooves! Buffalos of the valley!” The stallion shouted.

The leader of the bovine smirked expecting the sheriff to start begging for mercy. He would give none, of course.

Sheriff took a deep breath.
“We hereby invoke the old Buffalo Hospitality Law and invite y’all to our town!”

Not something that the bison chief expected.

“Is this some kind of trick?” Asked Thunderhooves angrily. “Because if it is, I swear upon the ancestors-”

“There is no trick father.” Said Little Strongheart emerging from the crowd.

The mane six gave her an astounded look.

“Father?!” Asked Thunderlane. Little Strongheart ignored him.

“Sheriff Silverstar brought you all a gift and after much consideration decided to propose a new solution to our problems.” She continued.

The buffalos started walking down to the city,their gait confident but cautious. It was at that moment that they noticed plates full of baked goods. Upon closer inspection one could make out there pieces of apple crumble on them.

Chief Thunderhooves started sniffing the air. He had to admit the smell was more than enticing but that wasn’t enough to lull his vigilance.

“Would you like to try some of that, chief?” Asked Comet Tail.

Giant buffalo looked at him with neutral emotion. “Only if the sheriff would be kind enough to join me.” He said cooly.

“With pleasure.” Silverstar replied with a chuckle and took a bite.

Thunderhooves ate the rest of the piece with his large maw and froze for a moment.

He had to admit, this was probably one of the best things he ever ate. Right next to his mother’s prickly pear jam.

“Ah take it you enjoy our gift, chief?” Asked Silverstar.

The tribe’s leader said nothing.

“What if I told you that your people can have both the easier access to these goods as well stampede through your sacred land.”

The chief was reinvigorated again.

“For what prize, exactly?” Asked the buffalo.

The sheriff laughed. “Why don’t we talk about it in my office?”
And with that both of the leaders walked away to talk about their issues.

The rest of the buffalo stayed beyond enjoying both the snacks prepared by the Appleoosans, as well as the games organised by Cheese Sandwich.

One young buffalo cow could help herself but squeal slightly form excitement.

“It worked! It really worked.” She said out loud while hopping in place.

“It wouldn’t have worked, if it wasn’t for a very smart buffalo.” Said Braeburn walking up to her with a smile.

She ran up to him and gave a hug that squeezed all the air from his lungs.

“Bray! Can you believe it? We don’t have to be enemies now!” She said ecstatic. “We can be friends again!”

Braeburn chuckled. “We were always friends Heart.” He hugged her back. “And always will be.”

It was decided. Through the combined efforts of Comet Tail, Buffalos and Appleoosans it was decided that a path through the orchard will be made. Wide enough that buffalos could run through it in two-animal rows. The bovines were also entitled to a 90% discount when buying any apple-related goods. In return at least ten grown buffalos were obliged to guard the orchard at all times from any potential thieves.

Lieutenant Flash Sentry and his platoon returned to the Badlands, serving Equestria in their own way.

It was time for the element bearers to say goodby to Appleoosa. A task especially hard for the element of honesty.

“Remember to always listen to your grandma and eat three times a day.” Red Delicius said while fixing Braeburn’s mane.”

“For Faust’s sake Red, he’s a grown stallion.” Groaned Pippin.

The rest of his companions laughed.

“Don’t worry miss delicious. I promise we will make sure he brushes his teeth twice a day.” Said Soarin jokingly.

“Braeburn…”

They all turned to the direction of the voice only to see Little Strongheart with a neutral expression. The tension could be felt in the air.
Comet Tail cleared his throat loudly. “Sooo… Maybe we will already enter the train and leave you guys to yourselves.”

Pippin grunted. “Yeah, ehhh… Come on Red, let’s leave them alone.”

“O-okay.” Said Braeburn’s mother and gave him a kiss on the cheek before leaving.

Now it was just the bovine and the equid.

“Sooo, I take it we won’t see each other for a while.” Said Little Strongheart.

“Yeah…” Braeburn sighed. “Sorry Heart but now I have a live Ponyville. At least for a while.”

“No, I-I… understand.”

He could feel she was getting sadder but there was little he could do.

“Hey…” Braeburn said.

The cow looked at him.

“Let’s make a vow.”

“A vow?” She asked.

“Yeah, let’s vow that next time we see each other we will make it the best time we’ve ever spent with each other.”

Smile again started appearing in her muzzle. “Okay. I swear that next time we see each other, it’ll go down in history.”

He laughed. “That’s the Little Strongheart I know.”

The train whistled.

“Five minutes upon departure!” The guard shouted.

“I guess that’s my cue to go.” Said Braeburn with a hint of sadness in his voice.

Suddenly Little Strongheart hugged him with moisture in her eyes. “Until ee see each other again.”

He hugged her back.
“Until we see ach other again.”

Author's Note

I bet you weren't expecting Flash to show up. Depsite the main ship being CometxTwilight I actually don't mind FlashxTwilight, it's one of my favourites. I just couldn't imagine Flash as Celestia's student.

Fameuse is an apple cultivar form which Mclntosh is rumored to descend from, in case you were wondering.

See you in the next chapter.

Bridging the gap

It took Scootaloo about a quarter-hour to finally start making out the shape of Ponyville’s orphanage in the distance.

A few minutes later and she could clearly see Miss Heartstring and Rainbow Dash talking.

Upon her arrival both of them stopped talking to look at her with a smile.

“What’s up Squirt? Are you ready for the best Friday of your life?”

“Wasn’t the previous friday the best day of my life?” Filly asked playfully.

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “Maybe. But this time it won’t be just you and me.”

Scootaloo tried her best not to fall over from the whiplash.

“N-not just us?” The filly asked, flabbergasted.

“Soarin will join us two. You don’t mind that, do you?” Rainbow asked.

“N-no. Not at all.” Scotaloo lied.

“Remember to unpack all of your things before venturing with Miss Dash, though” Said the other mare with brown coat and blonde mane.

“Of course Miss Heart String.” Said the filly and did as she was told.

Both mares smiled while watching her disappear into the orphanage.

“You have no idea how fast they grow up.” Heart String said to Rainbow.

“I hope I will one day.” Replied the pegasus mare.

Soarin was standing near Sugar Cube Corner almost sweating.

It was the day he was gonna meet somepony really important in Rainbow’s life.

Mess it up and the relationship between him and the rainbow mare might be strained.

And that’s definitely not something he wanted as he liked her more than he liked to admit.

“Soar!” A raspy voice belonging to his newly made female friend snapped him out his thoughts.

Next to hear was the filly he saw once or twice. Orange coat, cerise mane and she was riding on a small scooter, the model of which he has never seen before.

“How’s Thunderlane been treating you today?” Rainbow Dash asked him with a smile.

“He’s been kinder than usual, which makes me think he is planning something. You know how it is with them, bosses.” Soarin replied humorously.

“In that regard I don’t really know. Can’t remember the last time Spitfire was acting nice.” The mare said.

The stallion thought it would be a good idea to acknowledge the filly’s presence.

“I take it you’re the famous Scootaloo that Rainbow has talked so much about.” Soarin said trying to sound as enthusiastic as he could.

“Yeah…” Little pegasus replied short and dryly looking sideways.

Not the response Soarin wished for. Has he screwed up already, somehow? He decided to approach from a different direction.

“Do you know how me and Rainbow met?”

“You saved her from a fall to her death.” Scootaloo said in a disinterested voice.

The stallion grinned from ear to ear.

“... Which wouldn’t have happened if you didn’t tamper with the sign during the race.”

His smile dropped immediately. “Ehhh…”

“Hey!” Rainbow Dash interjected suddenly. “Why don’t we go to that newly opened skatepark? That would be a perfect opportunity for you to show us those new moves you’ve learned.”

Filly’s face brightened immediately. “You’re on it!” She put on a helmet and rode off on her scouter.

“Last pony to reach the park buys ice cream.” The filly shouted while speeding off.

Rainbow Dash and Soarin took to the air.

“Thanks.” Stallion said to his friend.

“Don’t sweat it.” She replied. “Don’t know why she said that. She probably didn’t mean anything bad. Just a filly talking through her hat.”

“Hey, she’s right though, you know?” Soarin said half-joking, half-serious.

“Yeah, but she shouldn’t be judging you for that. Nopony should.” Rainbow said, her demeanor changing to a more somber one.
“Hey.” Soarin nudged her, wanting to redirect her thoughts. “We’re here to have fun. Everything’s for Scootaloo, remember ?”

She smiled nodding back and they continued their race.

Scootaloo who had reached the skatepark first was already busy when her older companions arrived.

“You’ve got some sick moves there, kid!” Soarin shouted encouragingly.

The filly didn’t even bother to look at him.

“Wow. She’s even more focused than usual.” Said Rainbow Dash.

The stallion had a feeling it was something else than just being focused but decided not to voice his thoughts.

“Do you think it bothers her?” Rainbow-maned popped the question suddenly.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Asked Soarin confused.

“The fact that she can’t fly. Do you think other foals… pester her about it?” The mare explained, feeling the lump forming in her throat.

This didn’t go unnoticed by the weather pony. He put a hoof on her shoulder.

“I might not know how she fully feels, but here’s what I know for certain.”

The mare looked at him with a puzzled look.

“You are one of the best ponies she could come across in her life. A parent figure that is a wonderbolt? I’m sure she loves you with all her heart. Didn’t she form your fanclub? That’s gotta count for something.”

The mare chuckled. “I guess it does.”

Soarin thought that now would be the best time to ask.

“So… How did you two even meet?”

“I haven’t told you?”

“No, I don’t recall so.”

“Oh man. Where do I start?” Rainbow Dash took a deep breath

“About two years ago we were performing near Ponyville. Nothing exquisite, just your usual run of the mill show. Then in the middle of our performance something flies through the retractable roof. A scream could be heard. Imagine my surprise when it turns out to be an orange filly falling down with a scooter. Next thing I know, I’m diving to save her. She was alright, the scooter not so much. When we landed she was bombarded with questions. It turns out she was a local orphan, such a fan of mine that when she couldn’t afford the ticket, she built herself a ramp to get in and watch me in action.”

She put a hoof on her chest. “From that moment onward we became inseparable. She’s like a little sister to me, you know?”

Soarin thought for a moment. “I can only imagine. I never had any younger siblings of my own.” He smiled. “Having said that, I think that’s incredibly generous of you. So much so that Time Turner will have to look out for his position as the element of harmony.”

The mare grinned back at him. “Thanks. You and my parents are the only ponies that seem to think that.

He raised one of his eyebrows. “What do you mean?”

She sighed. “It’s my co-workers. They keep telling me that somepony on my position shouldn’t be ‘playing-pretend to be a parent’, as they put it.”

He could feel anger rising inside of him. “Buck them, then.”

She was slightly taken aback by his language. “You think so?”

“Of course. You’re trying to balance a life of being both second in command in the Wonderbolts and hanging out with your little sister. That makes you more than awesome in my book. If they can’t see that then to Tartarus with them.”

Despite his impulsiveness, Rainbow couldn’t help but feel at home with him.

It was at that moment that they heard a very similar shout. They turned their heads to see Scootaloo tumbling down with her scooter on one of the arms.

Soarin noticed a scraped piece of skin on the lower part of her right foreleg. It was dripping with blood.

They both instinctively flew up to her.

Soarin approached her first.
“Don’t worry kid! I’ve brought first aid kit just for a situation like this. Now, if we-”

“Raargh! I’m fine! I don’t need your help!” The filly shouted back agitated.

The stallion took a step back. “I just wanted-”

“I don’t care what you wanted!” She replied to him abrasively.

Rainbow Dash furrowed her eyebrows. “Scoots, I don’t know what has gotten into you today but if you don’t stop, we will have to drop you back at the orphanage and tell Ms. Heartstring about everything.”

“You’d love to do that don’t you?” She replied to her idol with an accusatory tone. “Go ahead. I won’t try to bother you two!”

Before the wonderbolt could say anything else, the filly drove off with tears in her eyes.

Rainbow’s ears fell. The look of guilt was painted on her face.

“I’ll go after her.” Declared Soarin.

“Are you sure about this?” Asked Rainbow Dash with uncertainty.

“I think this would be the best course of action. There was a misunderstanding and I’m trying to sort things out. Worst case scenario you’ll try to get to her instead.”

She nodded her head. “Okay, good luck.”

With that he took off and followed the orange filly, leaving the mare alone.

Scootaloo rolled her scooter to a stop just outside the café, her wings buzzing slightly as she caught her breath.

That cursed stallion. It was all his fault. Not only did he endangered Rainbow’s life, now he was trying to steal her.

That wasn’t fair. One good thing that has happened in her life and it was slowly drifting away. Was this some kind of a cruel joke played by Faust?

She couldn’t really reflect that for long enough.

“Hey! Scootaloo!” The voice was dripping with mockery.

Even without looking she knew who it was.

As she turned her head she saw two pegasus colts a few years older than her.

“What is it Rachet?” She asked with as much defiance as she could master.

“Not much, just wanted to check if you’re still… grounded.” The colt said and burst into laughter, his friend soon joined in.

“Yeah, don’t peg her as the flying type. More like the crawling type.” The second tormentor said, earning a new wave of laughter.

Scootaloo narrowed her eyes, gripping the handlebars of her scooter. “Whatever. I’ve got places to be.”

But before she could ride anywhere Ratchet. “You know that Rainbow Dash only hangs out with you out of pity, right? She looks at you like her personal charity case.”

“That’s not true!” The filly snapped back at them. Her voice cracking slightly from all the emotions.

“Of course it is.” Said the second colt. “Why else do you think a big-shot wonderbolt like her would bother with a flightless warm like you?”

She closed her eyes, trying, with all her might not to cry. Why does today have to be so rough?

“Hey.”

All three of them turned their heads to see Soarin. His eyes locked on the bullies with the intensity Scootaloo haven’t seen before. His normally easygoing demeanor replaced by a quiet but undeniable authority.

“Is there a reason you’re bothering her?” He asked cooly.

“We were just talking, no big deal.” Replied Ratchet mustering all his courage.

“Really? Because for me it Sounded more like a couple of loudmouths trying to pick on somepony smaller than them.” Stallion replied.

Ratchet’s bravado faltered. “We weren’t-”

“Save it,” Soarin interrupted, his tone sharpening. “Here’s how this works. You leave her alone, and I don’t have to explain to your parents why two colts thought it was a good idea to mess with somepony half their size. Got it?”

The colts exchanged nervous glances, realizing they were in over their heads.

“Let’s go.” Said Ratchet, his friend mumbled something under his breath.

Soarin didn’t move until both colts disappeared between trees. Then he turned to Scootaloo, his expression softening.

“You okay, squirt?” He asked gently.

“Yeah… thanks.” She thought for a moment. “Why did you do that?”

“You were getting punched down by two wet wipes. What kind of stallion would I have been if I hadn't done anything?” He said smiling warmly.

“After all I’ve said to you?” She asked in a surprised.

His expression turned slightly more serious.

“Listen Scootaloo… I understand how you feel. Some new stallion just appears and you have to share your big sister with him. She’s a hero to a lot of ponies, including me. But I’m not here to take her from you. It would be best for us to burry the hatchet. We both love- “

“Love?” Asked Scootaloo. It seemed like a weird word choice for her.

“Care, I meant to say care. Care about Rainbow. “ Soarin said mentally slapping himself. “You’re a big part of her life, Scoots. She talks about you all the time—how brave you are, how you never give up. She’s proud of you. And I think that’s pretty awesome too.”

She looked at him with a teary eyes. “You really mean that?”

He put a hoof on her shoulder.

“Of course Scoots. I’m hoping there’s room for both of us. Rainbow means a lot to me, and I want to be here for her—and for you too, if you’ll let me. I’m not here to compete with you. I’m here because I think you and Rainbow are both amazing. And if you ever need someone else in your corner—whether it’s cheering you on, giving advice, or, I dunno, scaring off bullies—I’d be honored to be that pony.”

She looked at him with both red eyes and a smile on her muzzle. “I think I would like that.”

The stallion grinned back. “See squirt? I’m not that bad when you get to know me better.”

“No, I guess you’re just kind of basic compared to her.”

“Ouch.” He replied playfully. “Right in the feels.”

The filly giggled. “You lead the way back. I don’t really know where we are now.”

The stallion looked all around himself. “Eeeh… I think we should go… there.”

And so they went.

Rainbow started getting nervous. It’s been half an hour since Soarin left.

Is it possible that both of them got lost?

What if Scootaloo can’t find her way back. Good Faust, what if her wound is getting worse? She’s bleeding in some unhospitable-

“We’re back!”

She turned her head to see Soarin trotting and Scootaloo driving towards her. A wound on the filly’s foreleg was wrapped in a bandage.

Rainbow quickly hugged the little pony. “It’s great seeing you again Scoots. You two got me really worried.”

“Rainbow Dash?” Asked the filly.

“What is it kiddo?”

The foal took a deep breath. “I’m sorry for what I said earlier. About you and Soarin.”

That was something the wonderbolt didn’t expect. If she knew one thing about the filly it was the fact that she was the most stubborn pony Rainbow knew.

“I’m… glad that we’re on the same page, squirt.” Replied the mare.

Soarin cleared his throat, making both female ponies look at him.

“Now that everything is water under the bridge I propose a race to the Sugar Cube Corner. The last pony buys whatever the winner desires.”

Scootaloo flashed a wide grin and almost immediately bolted off on her scooter.

“See ya later suckers!” She shouted driving off.

Soarin looked at Rainbow. “We’re not gonna keep her waiting, are we?”

Rainbow chuckled. “I guess not.”

And with that both of them flew after her.

“She’s a good kid.” Soarin said to Rainbow Dash as they were walking away from the orphanage. Scootaloo was probably preparing to go to sleep at the moment.

“The best,” Rainbow agreed. She turned to him, her magenta eyes sparkling. “Y’know, I wasn’t sure how she’d feel about you. She’s kinda protective of me. But you two got along way better than I expected.”

Soarin shrugged with a small smile. “She’s got spirit. Reminds me of someone else I know.”

Rainbow smirked. “Yeah, yeah, you’re real funny. But seriously, thanks for being cool with her. It means a lot.”

“Hey, it’s no big deal,” Soarin said casually, though his tone softened. “She’s important to you, so she’s important to me too. Besides, I like her. Kid’s got guts.”

“You two have that in common.” Rainbow Dash replied, a hint of admiration in her voice.

“Careful there Rainbow.” The stallion chuckled. “You’re gonna make me blush.

The mare looked at him for a moment thoughtfully. Then without a warning she leaned in and pecked him on the cheek.”

“Challenge excepted.” She said playfully making him freeze in place. “Don’t let it go to your head, hotshot,” she teased, her tone light but warm. “Just… thanks for today.”

The pegasus stallion started blushing furiously. “A-anytime, Dash.”

Rainbow gave him a playful nudge with her wing before taking off into the sky. “See ya around, Soarin!”

Soarin watched her disappear into the evening sky, a dazed smile on his face. “Yeah… see ya, Dash.”

He gently brushed spot where she kissed him with his hoof.

“What a mare.”

Author's Note

I hope this chapter made all the SoarinDash shippers happy. :) In this universe Scootaloo is an orphan. (It will play a role later in the story)

Best Night Ever

“Just where are they?” Comet asked himself aloud. “The train arrives in ten minutes.”
“Relax.” Replied Thunderlane. “They still have an abundance of time to show up. Worst case scenario they take the next train. I’m sure the princess will understand once you explain it to her.

Two of them plus Time Turner, Cheese Sandwich and Spike were standing on the platform at Ponyville’s train station, all of them wearing tuxedos.

“Howdy there y’all!”

They looked where the voice was coming from only to see nopony else but Applejack. She was wearing a light green dress with a simple, country-inspired design. The mare pulling a green wooden box on wheels alongside her.

“Miss Applejack? What are you doing here?” Asked Time Turner confused. “Are you by any chance attending the gala as well?”

“Ya bet I am, Sugarcube! Braeburn didn’t tell ya?” She replied.

“No, he omitted that detail.” Replied Comet Tail. “How did you get the ticket?”

“He gave it to me.”

“What?!” All of them asked in unison.

“He voluntarily gave up the ticket ?” Asked Cheese Sandwich.

The mare moved her hat. "Ever since he was a little colt, Braeburn’s hated crowds. You’d be surprised how much he’s changed over the years. The idea’s to gather up as many bits for our family as we can. Don’t much matter which one of us goes. That, and he went and politely asked me to go instead of him."

Before anyone could say anything a new voice rung in the air.

“Wait for us!”

All of them looked to see both a familiar and a new face.

Soarin in a suit of his own was being accompanied by a middle aged light pink pegasus mare with brown mane, purple highlights popping here and there. The dress that she wore had both a sense of class and old age, like something from a bygone era.

“Soar? Is that who I think it is?” Inquired Comet Tail.

The pegasus stallion smiled. “I would like to introduce everypony to my mother: Tippy Tappy. Except for you Thunderlane, you guys already know each other all too well.”

Stallions, Applejack and Spike verbally greeted her.

The darker stallion chuckled. “Good to see you Ms.Tappy.”
The mare smiled back at him. “Same to you Thunder. You’re getting more and more handsome every day.”

Tippy Tappy took a good look at the group. “It’s great to know that my son found a group of ponies that
Her eyes wandered over to Spike.

“Soarin, is that a dragon?” The elder mare asked her son.

The stallion chuckled. “That mom is the one and only Spike.”

The young drake in question puffed his chest proudly, clearly entertained by the fact that he was the centre of attention.

Tapppy giggled. “Oh my, he’s so…”

“Fearsome? Intimidating?” Asked Spike.

“Adorable!” Soarin’s mother finished.

Little dragon deflated and Comet started laughing.

“C-cute?” Asked the dragon in a disappointed voice.

“Don’t let the exterior fool you Ms.Tappy. He’s more than ferocious once you let him into the kitchen.” Said his older brother jokingly.

At that moment a familiar whistle rung in the air. Everyone turn their head to see that the train has finally reached the station.

“Grand Galloping Gala, here we come!” Announced Cheese Sandwich enthusiastically.

Upon arriving at the Canterlot station the elements and their companions immediately made their way to the royal palace.

“Comet?”

The unicorn in question turned his head towards the voice. It was Time Turner. “What is it?”

“I’ve been meaning to ask you where Twilight has been for the past two days. She lent me a book from her private collection and I wanted to return it but I couldn't find her anywhere.”

“She left for Canterlot earlier to prepare for the gala, or at least that’s what she told me.”

“Really? Ponyville’s cutest librarian is going to attend as well?” Thunderlane asked teasingly.

Comet could feel a slight tinge of negativity looming at the back of his mind.

Applejack’s mouth corners dropped slightly. “Yah think she’s cute?” She asked the dark stallion.

“On the scale of cuteness I would give her a solid seven.” He replied, waiting for a reaction from the unicorn.

Comet thought for a moment.“Can’t really argue with that.”

Thunderlane laughed and patted the unicorn on the back. “Don’t worry, I’m just messing with you, man.”

The unicorn faked a small laughter.

After guards let them through the whole pack was standing in front of the palace.

Comet took a deep breath. “Okay guys, Let’s recall the rules. No embarrassing the Princesses. That means no wild stunts, no inappropriate jokes, and definitely no trying to ‘spice up’ the event. We’re representing Ponyville, so let’s keep it classy.”

Cheese Sandwich raised a hoof. “Define ‘spice up.’ Hypothetically.”

Comet gave him a flat look. “If you have to ask, don’t do it. No causing unnecessary scenes. That means no challenging ponies to random contests, no fighting, and no making the night harder for anypony else.”

Soarin crossed his hooves. “What if they start it?”

“Then we end it by walking away,” Comet said firmly. “We’re here to enjoy the gala, not become the evening’s entertainment.”

The group exchanged glances, a mix of agreement and mild amusement.

Comet Tail softened his tone, adding, “Look, we’ve all got our goals tonight, but remember—we’re here as a team. Let’s make this a night to remember for all the right reasons.”

“Got it, boss,” Spike chimed in, giving Comet a mock salute.

“Good. Now let’s do this.”

The grand ballroom of Canterlot Castle was bathed in golden light, the dazzling decor complementing the vibrant sea of guests. Comet Tail stepped inside, taking a moment to absorb the atmosphere. Around him, his friends and Spike dispersed eagerly, each with their own goals for the evening.

Turning his gaze toward the center of the room, Comet spotted Princess Celestia standing amidst a circle of nobles. As their eyes met, she smiled warmly and beckoned him over.

“Comet Tail,” Celestia greeted him as he approached, her serene voice cutting through the gentle hum of conversation. “It’s always a pleasure to see one of my students.”

“And it’s always an honor to see you, Princess,” Comet replied, bowing politely. “Thank you for inviting me—and my friends. It means a lot to all of us.”

Celestia’s eyes twinkled. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. I trust you’ll enjoy yourself tonight?”

“I’ll do my best,” Comet said, smiling. “Though I think I might need to brush up on my small talk.”

Celestia chuckled lightly before glancing around. “Speaking of familiar faces, where is Twilight? I thought she’d be with you.”

“Oh,” Comet replied, his ears perking up. “Twilight took an earlier train to Canterlot two days ago. She wanted to prepare for the Gala ahead of time. You know how meticulous she can be.”

Celestia nodded, a fond smile gracing her lips. “That sounds like her.”

Before the conversation could continue, a voice interrupted them.

“Princess Celestia! Comet!”

Comet turned toward the source, and his breath caught in his throat. Twilight Sparkle was walking toward them, her light blue gala dress shimmering elegantly with each step.

Her mane, usually left loose and practical, was elegantly styled into a neat bun at the back of her head giving her an unexpected sense of elegance.

Comet blinked, feeling the temperature rise in his cheeks.

“Twilight, there you are,” Celestia said warmly, her gaze flickering briefly to Comet’s awestruck expression. “You look lovely tonight.”

“You’ve caught us at the perfect time,” Celestia said, her eyes glinting with a subtle playfulness. “But I believe I see somepony who requires my attention. If you’ll excuse me.”

Before either of them could protest, Celestia walked away gracefully, leaving Twilight and Comet alone.

Twilight turned to Comet, tilting her head curiously. “You alright there? You look a little...distracted.”

Comet snapped back to reality. “What? Oh right. It’s just that you look incredible.”

The mare blushed at his compliment but her mouth quickly formed into a smirk.

“Thanks, Comet. You’re not looking so bad yourself. I see you finally figured out how to tie a bowtie.”

He chuckled, adjusting the slightly crooked accessory. “Well, it only took Spike and three instructional scrolls, but I got there. You’d think magic would make it easier, but no.”

Twilight laughed lightly, the sound putting Comet at ease.

It was at that moment that he noticed apart from him she was completely alone.

"So, where’s the rest of the Sparkle clan? Are they hiding in the ballroom, or did you scare them off with another checklist?"

Twilight rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the grin tugging at her lips. "They’re not here yet. My parents and Shining are on their way. Cadence, unfortunately, couldn’t make it—she’s stuck at a diplomatic meeting in Prance.”

“Shame. She won’t have to listen to this year’s critique.” Comet said jokingly.

“Don’t laugh,the gala is a serious matter to dad..” The mare replied while still smirking.

While being a paragon of kindness and wisdom Sir Night Light always carried an aura of effortless authority. His razor - sharp attention to detail probably being the main reason.

From the subtle shift of a waiter’s posture to the faintest thread out of place on a guest’s dress. Nothing went past him.

By contrast, Twilight Velvet, with her commoner roots, was almost the polar opposite. Where Night Light noticed the smallest threads of the evening, Velvet embraced the whole fabric, laughing and chatting without a care for whether the floral arrangements were perfectly symmetrical or the hors d'oeuvres were precisely plated. It was a grounding presence that had always balanced her husband’s meticulous nature.

It was a dynamic that shaped Twilight in ways Comet found fascinating. She carried her father’s meticulousness in her studies, her drive for perfection tempered by her mother’s unshakable warmth and pragmatism.

“Hello? Comet?” Twilight asked concerned.

“Hmm?”

“You drifted off somewhere for a moment.”

“Oh yeah. Sorry.”

Good Faust, why had his legs gone soft?

The moment stretched as her gaze lingered on him. That quiet confidence she carried tonight only deepened the sense that she was so far out of his league. And yet...

And yet, wasn’t it Twilight herself who had always encouraged him, even as they competed? Who had stayed up late in the library with him, pouring over spells and theories until the candles burned low? Who had been the only one who could match his wit, challenge his ideas, and laugh with him over their mistakes?

Maybe—just maybe—she didn’t need somepony better.

He swallowed hard, his pulse quickening. Before he could think too much and talk himself out of it, he took a shaky breath and smiled.

“Twilight,” he said, his voice steadier than he felt, “would you like to dance?”

Twilight blinked, her eyes widening slightly as she took in Comet’s question. For a split second, she looked so surprised that Comet’s heart plummeted. Had he overstepped? Misread the moment?

He cursed himself silently for ruining what had been a perfectly pleasant conversation.

But then Twilight’s expression softened into something shy and uncertain. “You… you want to dance with me?”

“Yes,” Comet said quickly, his voice almost cracking before he steadied it. “I mean, only if you want to. No pressure, of course! I just thought it might be... nice.”

Twilight’s cheeks flushed a faint pink, and she glanced down at the polished marble floor. “I’d love to, but…” She hesitated, her hoof tracing a small circle against the ground. “I’m not a very good dancer. Actually, I’m pretty terrible at it.”

Comet exhaled a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding. Relief surged through him, followed by an almost giddy kind of courage. “Twilight,” he said with a lopsided grin, “you’re talking to the pony who once tripped over his own hooves during a basic teleportation spell. I don’t think either of us is winning any awards for grace tonight.”

Twilight looked up at him, her lips twitching into a reluctant smile. “You tripped during a teleportation spell? When was this?”

“Remember that summer when Celestia sent us both to that advanced spellcraft seminar?” Comet asked, his grin widening. “I was trying to impress the instructor by teleporting across the room. Instead, I materialized right in front of her podium and nearly knocked the whole thing over.”

Twilight burst into laughter, her earlier embarrassment momentarily forgotten. “I do remember that! You tried to play it off like it was part of the demonstration.”

“Exactly. And if I could survive that level of humiliation, I think we can survive one dance together.” He held out a hoof, his voice softening. “What do you say?”

Twilight hesitated for only a moment longer before she placed her hoof in his. “Alright,” she said, her smile now warm and genuine. “Let’s give it a try. If we both make fools of ourselves, at least we’ll do it together.”

“Deal,” Comet said, his heart fluttering as he led her toward the dance floor.

As they stepped into the gentle rhythm of the music, their initial awkwardness melted into shared laughter, each misstep met with good-natured teasing. For once, Comet felt as though the weight of self-doubt had lifted, replaced by something lighter and far more precious—a connection that was unmistakably theirs.

Applejack stood behind her modest stand, a proud display of her family’s best apple treats arranged before her. She leaned against the counter, tilting her hat back slightly as her green eyes scanned the thinning crowd. The night had been slow, with only Soarin and his mother stopping by so far, and though she tried to keep her spirits up, she couldn’t help but feel a touch of impatience.

The sound of hoofsteps broke her reverie, and she straightened as Thunderlane approached. His usually confident stride was slower and his ears slightly drooped.

“Well, if it ain’t Ponyville’s finest weather captain,” Applejack greeted, her voice warm but tinged with curiosity. “You here for somethin’ sweet, or just for the company?”

Thunderlane offered a small smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Hey, Applejack. Just… thought I’d stop by.”

Applejack’s gaze sharpened. She knew that look—she’d seen it too many times in the mirror to mistake it. “Sugarcube, you look like ya got a heap of somethin’ weighin’ on ya. Go on, spill it. What’s botherin’ ya?”

Thunderlane hesitated, glancing around as if searching for an escape route. “It’s nothing, really. Just... something on my mind.”

Applejack crossed her hooves over the counter and fixed him with a no-nonsense look. “Thunderlane, I ain’t got the time for dancin’ ‘round the truth. You’re frettin’ over somethin’. Spill the beans.”

He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Alright, alright. It’s about Restless Cloud. I need to talk to him tonight, but…” He hesitated for a moment. “I’m worried I’ll mess it up.”

Applejack tilted her head. “Mess what up? What’re you tryin’ to talk to him about?”

“The weather patrol,” Thunderlane admitted, his tone heavy. “Ponyville’s underfunded, and I need to convince him to approve more bits for us. But what do I know about talking to nobles? I’m just a weather patrol captain. They’re all about fancy words and big ideas. What if I say the wrong thing?”

Applejack studied him for a moment, her expression softening. “Thunderlane,” she said gently, “I ain’t gonna lie and say it’ll be easy. But if there’s one thing I know ‘bout you, it’s that you don’t shy away from doin’ what’s right, even when it’s hard.”

Her thoughts drifted back to that night they’d babysat Rumble and Apple Bloom. She remembered the way Thunderlane had opened up to her about raising his brother alone, the raw honesty in his voice as he shared his struggles. And when she’d told him about losing her parents, he’d listened—truly listened—like no pony had in years.

She could still feel the warmth of that hug they’d shared, the comforting pressure of his strong wings wrapped around her. You get me, she’d whispered then, her voice trembling with emotion. She hadn’t realized until later how true those words were. Thunderlane did get her, in a way nopony else did. And ever since that night, something had shifted in her heart.

Shaking off the memory, Applejack smiled at him. “Ya know, I reckon you’re sellin’ yourself short. You’re raisin’ Rumble all on your own, runnin’ the weather patrol, and still find time to help out when folks need it. That takes guts, Thunderlane. You’ve already proven you’re strong enough to handle any storm.”

Thunderlane chuckled softly, though his cheeks darkened. “Thanks, AJ. That means a lot, coming from you.”

Applejack tilted her head, her gaze searching his face. “Tell ya what,” she said, breaking the silence. “Go talk to Restless Cloud. Be yourself, and let your passion do the talkin’. And if it don’t work out, well, you’ll still have folks like me who believe in ya.”

She smiled, though her heart gave an unfamiliar flutter at the way he said her name. As he turned to leave, Applejack watched him go, her mind spinning. She’d always respected Thunderlane, but now... now she was starting to realize just how much he’d come to mean to her. And that scared her as much as it thrilled her.

The music swirled gently through the grand hall, filling the air with a soothing rhythm that even the most uncoordinated of dancers could follow. Comet Tail and Twilight Sparkle, however, were proving that there were indeed exceptions to every rule. Their steps were clumsy, a mix of hesitations and missteps, and more than once, Comet’s hoof bumped against Twilight’s.

“Sorry!” he blurted, his cheeks tinged pink.

Twilight laughed, brushing her bangs away from her face. “Don’t be. I’m pretty sure that one was my fault.”

They shared a grin, and despite their lack of grace, neither seemed to mind. If anything, the shared awkwardness only made the moment sweeter. Comet found himself admiring how easily Twilight could laugh at herself, and Twilight, in turn, noticed how his self-consciousness faded when she reassured him.

Unbeknownst to them, at the entrance to the hall, a small group of ponies had just arrived. Twilight Velvet and Night Light stood arm in arm, their gazes drawn immediately to the dance floor. Shining Armor stood slightly behind them, his expression calm but thoughtful.

“There they are,” Twilight Velvet said, her voice soft and touched with emotion. Her eyes sparkled as she took in the sight of her daughter and Comet. “Oh, Night Light, look at them. Doesn’t it take you back?”

The unicorn nodded, a gentle smile spreading across his face. “It does,” he replied. “It feels like just yesterday they were running around the house, studying magic together, and arguing over who got the last cookie.” He sighed, his gaze wistful. “And now… here they are, grown up and dancing at the Gala.”

Twilight Velvet’s grin grew wider, a hint of excitement flickering in her expression. “I always suspected there was something between them. You know, I used to catch her sneaking glances at him during their study sessions.”

Night Light chuckled, his tone teasing. “And I recall you ‘casually’ asking Falling Star if Comet was interested in anypony.”

Twilight Velvet huffed, though her cheeks turned pink. “I was just being a curious parent.”

Beside them, Shining Armor stood silently, his expression unreadable. His sharp, blue eyes followed the couple’s movements on the dance floor, but whether he was reminiscing, analyzing, or something else entirely, no one could tell.

On the dance floor, the song was winding down to its final notes. Comet and Twilight, still stepping on each other’s hooves from time to time, had fallen into an easy rhythm of laughter and shared smiles. When the last note faded, they stopped, breathing slightly heavier from the effort but beaming nonetheless.

Twilight turned to Comet, her eyes shining with gratitude and something else he couldn’t quite name. “Thanks for the dance,” she said, her voice soft but genuine.

Before Comet could respond, Twilight leaned forward and, in a moment that seemed to surprise even herself, gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

Comet froze, his heart skipping a beat, and his face turning a brilliant shade of red. “Uh…” he started, but the words caught in his throat.

Twilight looked equally startled by her own actions, her own cheeks flushing. “I—uh—” She glanced away, suddenly shy. “It just felt like the right thing to do,” she admitted sheepishly.

From across the hall, Night Light’s face broke into a wide smile, the kind only a proud father could wear. “Well, I’ll be,” he murmured.

Twilight Velvet nearly squealed, her excitement barely contained. “Did you see that? Oh, Night Light, did you see that?”

“Yes, dear,” he said patiently, his voice tinged with humor. “I saw.”

Shining Armor’s gaze remained fixed on the pair, his expression still inscrutable. He didn’t say a word, but a flicker of thought passed behind his eyes, as if he were weighing something deeply.

The moment Twilight Sparkle spotted her parents and Shining Armor approaching, her face lit up with delight. “Mom! Dad! Shining!” she exclaimed, waving enthusiastically as they neared.

Twilight Velvet immediately pulled her daughter into a tight hug. “Oh, sweetheart! Look at you, all grown up and looking stunning in that dress!”

Night Light followed with a warm smile, patting her on the shoulder. “You look radiant, Twily. As always.”

Shining Armor grinned and ruffled her mane, much to Twilight’s annoyance. “My LSBFF, stealing the show already, huh?”

Twilight playfully swatted his hoof away. “Shiny, stop messing up my mane!”

As the family exchanged greetings, Comet stood back, offering a polite smile. But before he could decide whether to excuse himself or wait for an introduction, Night Light turned his attention to him.

Velvet’s eyes slid toward Comet, a twinkle of mischief in them. “And who’s this handsome stallion?”

“Mom!” Twilight groaned, already predicting where this was going.

Comet bowed politely. “Good evening, Lady Velvet, Sir Night Light,” he greeted, his tone formal.

Night Light chuckled, waving a hoof. “None of that ‘Sir’ nonsense, Comet. You’ve known us since you and Twilight were foals. You didn’t call me that when you spilled juice all over that tapestry, and you don’t need to start now.”

Caught off guard, Comet hesitated. “I… Well, I suppose it just seemed more appropriate now that I’m older.”

Night Light waved a hoof dismissively. “None of that. You’re practically family, Comet. Bright Shine and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.” His expression softened as he studied the young stallion. “You know, you remind me of your father. Not in the way you carry yourself—Bright Shine was always the image of a Royal Guard, while you’ve clearly found your path in books and magic. But in the way you think, the way you care. He would’ve been proud of you.”

Comet felt a lump in his throat and managed a quiet, “Thank you, sir—I mean, Mr. Night Light.”

His , meanwhile, was already sizing him up. “Speaking of pride, I can’t imagine a wise, handsome stallion like you hasn’t caught the attention of some lovely mares by now.”

Beside his mother, Twilight Velvet was the only mare who had continuously called him handsome since he was a foal. That meant more than he liked to admit.

Twilight groaned softly. “Mom, seriously?”

Velvet waved her off playfully. “I’m just curious! Who knows? Maybe your perfect match is closer than you think.”

Comet’s cheeks flushed, and he chuckled nervously. “Dating isn’t exactly simple for me, Lady—er, Velvet.” He hesitated before glancing at Twilight and continuing cautiously. “There is a mare I admire, though. She’s one of the wisest and kindest ponies I’ve ever met. But… well, she comes from a family with an old and noble lineage. Every member I’ve met seems leagues above me. I just don’t know if I’d ever measure up.”

Velvet’s eyes sparkled with interest, and she opened her mouth to speak, but Night Light gently interrupted her. “Sometimes,” he said, his voice thoughtful, “it’s worth speaking to that family. You might find they think more highly of you than you realize.”

Comet nodded slowly, his gaze distant. “I’ll… keep that in mind.”

Just then, Comet glanced toward the balcony and cleared his throat. “If you’ll excuse me, I think I need some air. The gala can be a bit… overwhelming.”

Night Light gave him a knowing nod. “Take your time, Comet. It’s a big night.”

As Comet slipped away, Shining Armor straightened his posture. “I think I’ll step out for a moment too. I promised to meet a friend from the barracks.”

Twilight raised her eyebrow. “From the barracks? On the gala?”

He chuckled. “You’d be surprised.”

With that he left their circle and unbeknownst to them followed the younger stallion.

“Are you having fun, honey?” Tippy Tappy asked, her voice gentle as she walked beside her son.

“Ehmm... Yeah, I guess,” Soarin replied with a shrug, though the slight unease in his tone was hard to miss. No matter how far he’d come as an Element Bearer, standing among the upper crust of Equestrian society still made him feel like an outsider.

Tippy Tappy noticed the tension in his stance and placed a comforting hoof on his shoulder. Her expression softened as she looked at him.

“Soar,” she said warmly, “you deserve to be here just as much as anypony else. It doesn’t matter how much money we have or don’t have. You’re here because you’re a hero, someone who helped save our kingdom from disaster. Never forget that.”

She felt the tension in his shoulders ease slightly, and a small, grateful smile appeared on his face. “Yeah. Thanks, Mom.”

As they rounded a corner, Soarin’s ears perked at a familiar laugh. His heart skipped a beat when he spotted a rainbow-maned pegasus standing across the room, chatting animatedly with a group of Wonderbolts. Rainbow Dash.

Tippy noticed her son’s pause and followed his gaze.

“Who’s that?” she asked, her tone curious.

Soarin swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry.

He tried to play it cool. “That’s Rainbow Dash. She’s… You know. One of the Wonderbolts.

Tippy Tappy raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on her lips. “And a friend of yours, right?”

Before Soarin could backpedal, Rainbow turned her head and spotted him. Her magenta eyes lit up, and she immediately trotted over, leaving her teammates behind.

“Soarin!” she called, her grin widening. “Didn’t expect to see you here!”

“Rainbow!” Soarin said, his own smile spreading as his wings gave a small, involuntary flutter. “Hey! You look amazing.”

Rainbow chuckled, her cheeks tinging with the faintest blush. “Thanks. You’re not looking so bad yourself.” She glanced at the older mare beside him. “And who’s this?”

Soarin snapped back to the moment. “Oh! Rainbow, this is my mom, Tippy Tappy. Mom, this is Rainbow Dash, the best flier in Equestria.”

The older mare smiled warmly. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Rainbow Dash. Soarin’s told me a lot about you.”

Rainbow Dash’s ears perked up as she shot Soarin a playful look. “Oh yeah? All good things, I hope.”

Tippy Tappy chuckled. “All good, I promise. He has a tendency to flutter his wings while doing so.”

“Mom!” Soarin interjected, his cheeks flushing a deep crimson.

Rainbow snickered, clearly enjoying Soarin’s flustered reaction. “You’re pretty cool, Mrs. Tappy.”

“Call me Tippy, dear,” she said. Then, with a wink, she added, “And I can see why Soarin admires you so much.”

Both pegasi froze at that, their eyes widening slightly before they glanced awkwardly at each other. Tippy pretended not to notice, though she couldn’t hide the mischievous glint in her eyes.

The mare’s gaze lingered on Rainbow Dash as if she were trying to commit every detail of the Wonderbolt to memory. After a moment, her warm smile deepened. “So, Rainbow Dash, tell me—are your parents here at the Gala tonight?”

Rainbow shook her head, a fond but exasperated grin crossing her face. “Nah, they’re back in Cloudsdale. My mom and dad aren’t exactly ‘Gala’ ponies, if you know what I mean.”

“Nah, they’re back in Cloudsdale,” Rainbow replied, her wings giving a small flutter. “Both of them work at the weather factory. My mom’s in quality control, and my dad used to be in the military before he switched to maintenance. They’ve been there forever.”

Tippy’s ears perked up. “An ex-military pony? How fascinating. What’s his name?”

“Bow Hothoof,” Rainbow said. “He’s... uh, enthusiastic, to say the least. My mom’s Windy Whistles. She’s in charge of cloud density inspections.”

Tippy’s eyes widened as she gasped. “Bow Hothoof? That Bow Hothoof?”

Rainbow blinked, surprised by her reaction. “Yeah. You guys know each other?”

Tippy grinned, shaking her head as if trying to process the revelation. "Know him? Honey, we dated for half a year! We went to high school together. He was... well, let’s just say he was quite the troublemaker back in the day. Always pulling pranks, skipping class, and somehow still charming the teachers into letting him off the hook. I never thought he’d settle down, let alone join the military."

That got both Soarin and Rainbow to gape in unison, their wings twitching with unease.

"You dated my dad?" Rainbow blurted out, her voice somewhere between surprise and embarrassment.

Tippy waved a hoof dismissively, laughing softly. "Oh, don’t worry, nothing dramatic came of it. We broke up on good terms—just two teenagers realizing we were better as friends. But goodness, he was so handsome back then. Those strong wings, that dazzling smile..." Her voice grew dreamy, and she sighed.

Soarin groaned, dragging a hoof down his face. "Mom! I don’t need to hear this."

Rainbow cringed slightly. “I don’t know if I want to hear about this either, Ms. Tappy.”

Tippy blinked, realizing the awkward turn of the conversation. She quickly added, "Oh, don’t worry you two, Bow is not Soarin’s father.”

Her voice softened slightly, and her smile faded as she glanced down at her hooves. “Soarin’s father... well, he wasn’t interested in settling down, let alone raising a foal.”

Rainbow looked at Tippy with a soft, understanding gaze. "You know, Soarin’s dad really lost out. He missed out on raising an amazing son. And he doesn’t even know what he missed by not being there for you, either. You two could’ve been a family." She smiled at Tippy warmly. "But Soarin’s lucky, you know? He got you instead."

Tippy looked up, her eyes misty but full of warmth as she reached out to squeeze Rainbow’s hoof. "Thank you, dear. That means more than you know."

Rainbow gave her a small, reassuring smile before leaning back. "You know, my parents are kind of the opposite of that. Don’t get me wrong, I love them, but... they’re a little too much sometimes. Always cheering me on, even for the smallest things. When I was a filly, they threw me a party just because I cleaned my room once."

Tippy laughed, her spirits lifting. "Well, I suppose there are worse things than parents who love you a little too much."

Rainbow chuckled. "True. Still, if I ever have foals, I’d like to think I wouldn’t be that over-the-top. I’d want to strike a balance, you know?"

Tippy gave Rainbow a knowing smile. “Ah, well, you say that now, dear. But you’ll have to wait and see. Parenthood can bring out the unexpected in a pony.”

Before Rainbow could respond, Tippy turned her attention to Soarin, her tone turning teasing. “Speaking of foals, Soarin, when am I going to see some grandfoals, hmm?”

Soarin nearly tripped over his own hooves. “Mom!” he sputtered, his cheeks blazing.

Rainbow’s wings flared slightly as her face turned bright red. “Whoa, whoa, wait a second—what?”

Tippy smirked, clearly enjoying their reactions. “What? I’m just saying! Soarin’s at a good age, and with such a lovely mare like you around, Rainbow, well... a mother can hope, can’t she?”

Soarin stammered, looking anywhere but at Rainbow. “We’re—we’re not—Mom, come on!”

Rainbow coughed awkwardly, her blush refusing to fade. “Yeah, uh... I mean... we’re just friends.”

“For now,” Tippy said lightly, her tone far too innocent. “But you two do look good together, don’t you think?”

The two younger ponies exchanged an awkward glance, both unsure how to respond. Tippy, satisfied with the flustered silence, simply chuckled and started walking again.

Rainbow cleared her throat and tried to regain her composure, shooting Soarin a small, embarrassed smile. “Your mom’s... something else.”

“You don’t know the half of it,” Soarin muttered, still red-faced. But as they followed Tippy through the crowd, he couldn’t help but feel a tiny spark of hope in his chest, wondering if his mother’s teasing might have planted a seed.

Comet Tail leaned against the stone railing of the balcony, his eyes scanning the distant skyline of Canterlot, the lights of the city twinkling beneath the stars. He was trying to calm his nerves, but the steady rhythm of his heartbeat seemed to echo in his ears.

A soft clop of hooves sounded behind him, and Comet didn't need to turn around to know who it was. The familiar presence of Twilight's older brother, Shining Armor, settled next to him. He was clad in a royal tuxedo, his white coat pristine and his regal demeanor unwavering.

"Comet," Shining said, his voice polite but carrying a weight that made the air seem heavier. "I thought I might find you out here."

Comet's heart skipped a beat as he straightened up. He hadn't expected to speak with Shining Armor tonight. The stallion had always been... a little intimidating to him. Even as a colt, Shining had a certain way of looking at him—polite, yes, but with that unmistakable air of superiority, as though Comet were always beneath his notice. As though he were always watching him, judging him.

"Good evening, Capitain," Comet said, trying to keep his tone steady, though his nerves betrayed him.

Shining nodded, studying Comet for a moment before speaking again. "I wanted to talk to you. About Twilight."

Comet stiffened, his ears flicking back slightly. "Twilight?" He glanced sideways at Shining, his stomach turning in knots. He knew what was coming. "What about her?"

Shining turned toward the balcony railing, leaning casually against it as though it was a topic he’d been meaning to discuss for some time. "I noticed something earlier. After your little dance with her... and that peck on the cheek."

Comet’s breath caught in his throat, and he swallowed hard, his throat dry. That moment with Twilight, the brief but sweet kiss, had felt like the beginning of something new between them. But now, hearing Shining Armor’s words, a sudden wave of fear gripped him. He turned to face Shining, though he found it difficult to meet his gaze. His heart raced.

"I... I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable," Comet stammered, trying to backpedal. "It was just a moment, a small gesture. Twilight and I... we’ve been close for a long time."

Shining Armor’s eyes narrowed slightly, his expression unreadable. "I’m not asking about the gesture, Comet. I’m asking if you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with being that close to my sister. To protect her when things get dangerous." He paused, his voice lowering just enough that Comet could hear the undercurrent of seriousness. "Can you do that?"

Comet’s heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, he felt like his words were caught in his throat. The thought of Twilight being in danger... of him failing her... it terrified him. He had to force the words out, despite the fear gnawing at him.

“I… I can.” he finally managed to say, his voice trembling slightly. "I will do everything I can to protect Twilight. I swear on my life.”

Shining Armor’s gaze was intense, scrutinizing him as if weighing his every word. “Because I don’t think you understand what you’re saying,” he continued, his voice becoming more direct. “I’m not just asking if you’re going to stand there and look tough. I’m asking if you’re ready. If something happens, if she’s ever in danger, if I’m not around... will you be able to keep her safe?”

“Do you remember what happened when we were foals?”

Comet blinked, his stomach sinking. “What do you mean?”

“There was that group of colts—remember them?” Shining’s voice was tight now, a hint of something darker slipping into his tone. “The ones that were picking on Twilight? You stood up to them. I was there, watching. I saw you try to protect her, even when they were bigger and stronger than you. You didn’t back down, but they... they beat you up pretty badly. I had to step in and chase them off.”

Comet felt the blood drain from his face. The memory hit him like a tidal wave, crashing over him with a force that left him breathless. He had almost forgotten about that day, the humiliation, the pain—Twilight had been so scared, crying in the corner while he had tried so hard to be brave. He could still remember the way the colts had laughed as they knocked him down, how helpless he had felt when no one came to help. The shame had stayed with him all these years, and now it was rearing its ugly head again.

“I remember,” Comet said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I remember every bit of it.”

Shining Armor didn’t say anything for a long while. The silence hung between them like a heavy weight. Comet’s mind spun with thoughts of that day—of his failure. He had tried so hard to protect Twilight, but in the end, it had been her brother who had saved them both. He had always felt like less because of that.

"I know you remember. I was there, too. But that’s the thing. You’ve got to be confident in your ability to protect her. Confidence doesn’t come from just promises. It comes from knowing that you’re capable. If something like that happens again, and there’s no one around to help, you have to be ready to face it on your own."

Shining Armor looked at him for a long moment, his gaze searching.

I’m not trying to scare you, Comet. I just need to know you’re serious about this. You’re not just a friend anymore. If you’re going to be Twilight’s special somepony, you have to be ready for what comes with that responsibility.”

Comet nodded, his chest tight with both determination and fear. He wasn’t sure if he was ready for what Shining Armor was talking about, but he would try. He had to try. Twilight meant everything to him.

“I understand,” Comet said, his voice steady despite the nervousness clawing at him. “I’ll do everything I can to protect her.”

Shining Armor nodded approvingly, though the weight of his words still hung in the air. “Good. I’ll be watching you, Comet. And I’ll hold you accountable if anything ever happens to her.”

Comet’s heart pounded in his chest, but he stood tall. He wouldn’t back down this time.

“I won’t let you down,” he said, his voice full of quiet resolve.

As Shining Armor turned to walk back into the gala, Comet stayed where he was, staring out over the balcony. He had a promise to keep now—not just to Twilight, but to Shining Armor too. And he would do whatever it took to prove himself worthy of that trust.

As the sounds of the party filtered back in, Comet looked up at the stars once more, his mind filled with thoughts of the future. Of the challenges ahead. And of Twilight.

The express chugged softly in the distance as the six Element Bearers and their companions gathered at the station, their tasks for the gala behind them. The platform was alive with farewells, laughter, and the quiet satisfaction of goals accomplished. Time Turner chatted animatedly with Steel Cog, a gleam of excitement in his eyes. Thunderlane, a proud smile on his face, exchanged a firm hoofshake with Restless Cloud. Cheese Sandwich was handing out balloons to a small group of foals, their giggles filling the air. And Soarin, standing beside Rainbow Dash, grinned as his mother gave the prismatic pegasus an approving nod.

Comet Tail stood quietly beside Twilight, the noise of the station fading into the background as the train pulled into the platform. Once aboard, the group quickly found seats in the cozy compartment. Comet, spotting an open seat beside Twilight, slid in next to her. As the train began to roll forward, he noticed the familiar look of focus on her face as she held a well-worn book in her hooves.

“What are you reading this time, Twi?” Comet asked, leaning slightly to catch a glimpse of the cover.

Twilight looked up, her cheeks already pink from the proximity. “Oh, it’s Daring Do and the Sapphire Statue. It feels like a good way to wind down after everything.

The stallion chuckled knowingly. “Ah, the one where Daring tricks the guards by—”

“Comet!” Twilight interrupted, her voice a mix of surprise and mock indignation. “Spoilers!”

He laughed at her reaction, the sound light and easy. “What? It’s not even a major one! Besides, I thought you liked seeing how clever she gets.”

Twilight’s lips curved into a smile despite herself. “I do. But let me enjoy it properly, okay?”

“Alright, alright,” he said, holding up a hoof in surrender. “No more spoilers. Promise.”

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the rhythm of the train filling the air. Comet’s playful grin faded slightly as his mind shifted to the memory of the gala. He cleared his throat softly, glancing at her out of the corner of his eye. “Twilight… about what happened at the gala. The, uh… kiss on the cheek.”

wilight’s ears flattened, and her face turned crimson. She quickly closed her book and set it aside, her eyes darting to her hooves. “I—oh, Comet, I’m so sorry about that. It was impulsive, and I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I don’t know what I was thinking.”

Comet tilted his head, his curiosity piqued. “You don’t have to apologize, Twilight. But… if you don’t mind me asking, what were you thinking?”

She hesitated, her hooves fidgeting slightly. “I guess… I wasn’t really thinking at all. It just… happened. And I’ve been trying to figure it out ever since.” She paused, her voice softer now. “For a while now—maybe longer than I realize—I’ve been feeling… something whenever I’m around you. At first, I thought it was just admiration or respect. You’ve always been such a good friend to me. But over the past year, it’s grown into something I can’t ignore anymore. I’d catch myself thinking about you at the oddest times or feeling flustered when you smiled at me. It’s like… the feelings were always there, but I’m only just now realizing how deep they go.”

Comet’s breath caught in his throat as her words sank in. He had never seen her so vulnerable before, and it made his chest tighten in a way he couldn’t quite explain. Slowly, he reached out and placed his hoof gently over hers, causing her to look up at him with wide, uncertain eyes.

“Twilight,” he began, his voice steady despite the nervous flutter in his chest, “I’ve always respected you, too. You’re one of the smartest, kindest, and most amazing ponies I know. And while I was content with us just being friends, if there’s even the slightest chance for something more between us, I’d be more than happy to give it a try.”

Her eyes shimmered with emotion, but before she could respond, Comet continued, his own cheeks flushing. “The truth is… I think I’ve felt something for you for a long time. Maybe even since we were foals. I remember how excited I’d get whenever I’d visit your house, even with Shinning around. Being around you just made everything feel brighter.”

Her lips parted slightly in surprise, and for a moment, the two simply stared at each other, the air between them thick with unspoken words. Then, in a burst of courage, Twilight leaned forward and pressed her lips to his. Comet’s eyes widened in shock before they fluttered shut, his heart racing as warmth spread through his chest. It felt like he was melting, every nerve in his body alight with sensation.

When they finally pulled apart, Twilight’s face was glowing, a radiant smile lighting up her features. “You have no idea how much I’ve wanted to do that,” she confessed, her voice breathless but full of joy.

Comet chuckled softly, his own cheeks burning. “Well, I’m glad you finally did. Because I don’t think I could’ve worked up the nerve.”

Before they could say anything more, a loud cheer erupted from across the compartment. “Finally!” Spike’s voice rang out, breaking the intimate moment.

Twilight and Comet both froze, their faces burning with embarrassment as they turned to see Spike standing with his arms crossed, a wide grin plastered on his face. He looked absolutely delighted, and there was no hiding the fact that he had been watching them this entire time.

Twilight, trying to regain her composure, shot a look at the little dragon. “Spike!” she exclaimed, her voice mixed with embarrassment and amusement. “This is private!”

Spike grinned unapologetically, crossing his arms as he leaned back in his seat. “What? You two have been dancing around each other for years! It’s about time!”

Comet chuckled, shaking his head. “You know, I thought we had a little more time before the whole world found out.”

The drake gave them both a cheeky grin. “Hey, what can I say? I’ve got a sixth sense when it comes to this stuff.”

Twilight glared playfully at him, still blushing, but she couldn’t help but smile. “I’m gonna have words with you later, mister.”

The pair groaned in unison, but as they exchanged a glance, they couldn’t help but laugh. Despite Spike’s antics, the warmth between them remained, unspoken but understood. As the train rolled onward toward Ponyville, Twilight leaned her head against Comet’s shoulder, the Daring Do book forgotten for the moment. For the first time in a long while, everything felt exactly as it should.

Author's Note

In this chahpter we got some hints on Comet's background. Next chapter will be the beiggining o season two. I know I skipped some chapters but I didn't really have any ideas for them. This doesn't mean they're completely bandoned. As I've mentioned I might play with the chronology, so maybe these chapters will appear later.

See you in The Return of Harmony. It might take me longer than usual to write the first part of that chapter.

The Return of Harmony part 1 EDITED

The sun hung high over Ponyville, casting warm golden light over the peaceful town. Birds chirped, foals played in the streets, and the marketplace bustled with ponies going about their daily business. Strolling along the cobblestone path near the town square, Comet Tail walked side by side with Twilight Sparkle, their conversation lighthearted as Spike rode comfortably on Comet’s back.

“I still don’t get how you can read three books at the same time,” Comet said, shaking his head with an amused smile.

Twilight smirked. “It’s just a matter of organization and focus. One book for theoretical research, another for cross-referencing, and a third for light reading.”

Spike rolled his eyes. “Yeah, if you call 'Advanced Arcane Theories’ light reading.”

Twilight huffed playfully. “It is to me.”

Comet chuckled but was about to reply when a cold droplet landed on his muzzle. He blinked in surprise, looking up. A few more drops followed, splattering onto the ground.

Twilight tilted her head. “That’s strange. The weather schedule didn’t mention any rain this week.”

Spike wiped a drop off his snout and stared at it. “Uh… guys? This rain looks… weird.”

Comet followed his gaze, and his eyes widened. Instead of clear water, thick brown droplets fell from the sky, splashing against the ground and forming small puddles of what looked suspiciously like—

“Chocolate milk?” Twilight gasped, sticking out her tongue to catch a drop. Her eyes lit up. “It is chocolate milk!”

Before they could properly react, a gust of wind whooshed past them, followed by the unmistakable sound of flapping wings. A blue blur shot down from the sky and landed right next to them with a loud plop! Soarin groaned, shaking his wings out as he stood up.

The pegasus was covered in something pink and fluffy.

“What in Equestria—” Comet started, staring at his friend.

Soarin scowled, yanking a chunk of the sticky substance off his mane. “Comet, tell me you know why the clouds turned into cotton candy.”

Comet blinked. “Cotton candy?”

“This doesn’t make any sense,” Twilight murmured, her mind already racing with possible explanations. “There’s no documented case of this happening in Equestria. At least… none that I know of.”

Just as she said this, a familiar voice called out from down the road.

“Comet! Twilight! There y’all are!”

Braeburn trotted toward them, his hat askew and his mane slightly ruffled. He was out of breath, but the real oddity was the kernels of popcorn clinging to his coat.

“What happened to you?” Twilight asked.

“It’s the cornfields,” Braeburn said, panting. “The moment this here chocolate milk rain touched ‘em, every last stalk started poppin’ like fireworks! It’s rainin’ popcorn over at Sweet Apple Acres!”

As if on cue, the rest of the Element Bearers arrived in a flurry of urgency. Cheese Sandwich was grinning ear to ear, clearly amused by the chaos, while Doctor Whooves had a mixture of curiosity and concern on his face. Thunderlane landed with a heavy sigh, shaking droplets of chocolate milk off his wings.

Doctor Whooves adjusted his bow tie, looking both fascinated and concerned. “And it’s not just Sweet Apple Acres. Several ponies reported roads turning into soap, making them impossibly slippery. I nearly lost my balance just trying to get here!”

“Not to mention the rabbits,” Thunderlane added, his wings twitching. “I saw some of Fluttershy’s rabbits—except they had really long legs, like giraffes!”

“Giraffe rabbits?” Twilight repeated incredulously.

“And the birds are flying backward!” Cheese Sandwich grinned, seemingly more amused than concerned. “It’s like a wacky carnival, and I didn’t even have to plan it!”

Everypony turned to Comet, expecting some kind of explanation.

The unicorn frowned. “I have no idea what’s going on,” he admitted. “This isn’t like any natural phenomenon I’ve read about.”

Before they could speculate further, Spike suddenly clutched his stomach and gagged.

BURP!

A plume of green fire erupted from the baby dragon’s mouth, materializing into a rolled-up scroll bearing Princess Celestia’s royal seal. The sight of it immediately made everypony stand up straighter.

Comet caught the scroll in his magic, quickly unrolling it. His eyes scanned the message, his brows furrowing with growing concern. Then he looked up.

“Princess Celestia is summoning all of us to Canterlot. Immediately.”

A heavy silence fell over the group.

Twilight swallowed. “She wouldn’t call us unless it was something serious.”

Braeburn adjusted his hat. “Then we better get goin’.”

With nods of agreement, the group turned toward the train station, their carefree morning long forgotten. Whatever was happening in Equestria, it was big. And they were about to find out just how much worse it would get.

The train ride to Canterlot had been unusually quiet. The Element Bearers sat in a tense silence, their minds heavy with questions as they watched the landscape blur past the windows. Even Cheese Sandwich, typically a source of boundless energy and lightheartedness, remained subdued. The only sounds were the rhythmic clatter of the train on the tracks and the occasional rustle of parchment as Twilight jotted down notes in a small notebook.

When they arrived at the castle, Princess Celestia was waiting for them in the grand hall, her expression unreadable. However, the moment her gaze landed on Twilight, a small, genuine smile graced her lips.

"Twilight Sparkle," Celestia said warmly, stepping forward. "It is wonderful to see you again. It has been far too long."

Twilight returned the smile, though there was a hint of nervousness in her expression. "It’s good to see you too, Princess. I just wish it were under better circumstances."

Celestia sighed, her demeanor becoming somber once more. "As do I. Come. There is much to discuss."

She led them down a series of corridors until they reached Canterlot Tower, where stained-glass windows depicting their past victories shone brilliantly in the afternoon light. At the center of the room stood a pedestal, atop which sat a grand chest adorned with intricate golden filigree.

Celestia turned to face them. "What you are about to face is no ordinary foe. His name is Discord, the spirit of chaos and disharmony. Long ago, my sister and I wielded the Elements of Harmony to imprison him in stone. But now he has returned, and with the Elements, you are the only ones capable of stopping him."

Comet Tail, his voice steady but thoughtful, asked, "If he was sealed away before, how did he escape?"

"We do not know," Celestia admitted. "But we must act quickly. The longer he remains free, the more our world will descend into chaos."

With that, she unlocked the chest and lifted the lid. But instead of the Elements, there was nothing—only emptiness staring back at them.

A heavy silence filled the room. Then, a deep chuckle echoed around them, slithering through the air like a snake. The stained-glass windows flickered and shifted as though they had come to life. One of the figures—a draconequus with mismatched limbs and a mischievous grin—stretched and yawned as though waking from a long nap.

"Oh dear, looking for something?" Discord's voice oozed with amusement. "Now, don't tell me you were hoping to find your precious Elements just waiting for you? That would be far too easy."

The image of Discord slid from one stained-glass panel to the next, watching them with gleeful eyes. "It’s been so long since I last stretched my legs! And look at you—all grown up, the next generation of heroes. How precious."

His gaze flickered toward Comet Tail. "And you, Celestia’s little protégé. You must be under so much pressure, carrying that title. What if you’re not as great as she believes? What if, when the time comes, you fail?"

Comet stiffened but said nothing. The others cast concerned glances his way.

Discord then turned to Thunderlane, his smirk widening. "And the ever-dutiful older brother. Poor little Rumble, all alone in the world except for you. What if something happened to him because of you? Could you ever forgive yourself?"

Thunderlane’s wings flared instinctively, his face darkening.

Discord’s gaze drifted to Soarin. "Mommy always says she’s proud of you, doesn’t she? But deep down, you know she expected more. A Wonderbolt, perhaps? Instead, you're just another weather pony. Hardly the high-flying dream, is it?"

Soarin clenched his jaw, looking away.

Then, to Braeburn. "Ah, a pony with a secret, how interesting! Falling for somepony outside your kind? I wonder what [mom and dad would say. It must be terrifying not knowing how they’d react. Maybe they’d accept it. Or maybe… they wouldn’t."

Braeburn paled, his hooves shifting uneasily.

Discord slithered his way to Time Turner next. "A pony who thinks he can control everything with knowledge and careful planning. But some things are beyond your control, aren’t they? No matter how much you prepare, you can't stop everything."

Time Turner swallowed hard, his ears pinning back.

Finally, Discord's attention fell on Cheese Sandwich. "Ah, the funny one. Always laughing, always bringing joy. But even laughter can't fill that hole in your heart, can it? Daddy dearest is still gone. And that hurts, doesn’t it?"

Cheese's ever-present smile faltered just slightly before he forced it back into place.

Discord chuckled, clearly pleased with himself. "Now, let’s make this fun. If you want your Elements, you’ll have to find them first. Here’s a hint: Twists and turns are my master plan, find the Elements back where you began. Ta-ta for now!"

With a final snap of his talon, his image vanished from the glass, leaving them standing in silence.

It was Comet who broke it. "Twists and turns…" He turned sharply toward a window that depicted a sprawling labyrinth. "The Canterlot hedge maze! That must be what he meant."

“I’m coming with you,” Twilight declared.

Comet hesitated. “Twilight…”

She lifted her chin defiantly. “You need me.”

He exhaled. “Of course I need you. But I need you somewhere safe, helping us in your own way.” He placed a hoof on her shoulder. “Go back to Ponyville with Spike. Find any books that might have information on Discord or how to counter chaos magic. That might be just as important as fighting him directly.”

Twilight opened her mouth to protest, but Comet gently placed a hoof on hers. “Please. I’m afraid... I’m afraid of losing you. I can’t stand the thought of anything happening to you.”

Twilight’s heart swelled, but she nodded, her voice soft. “I’ll be careful, I promise.”

As she left with Spike, Comet stayed behind, staring into the room where the Elements once rested. His fears loomed larger than ever, but he knew one thing: he couldn’t let them consume him. Not when the future of Equestria depended on them.

The six stallions stood at the entrance of the massive labyrinth, their gazes stretching over the towering green walls that loomed before them.

For all its foreboding appearance, their spirits were high. They had faced challenges before—together. This would be no different.

Thunderlane flapped his wings once, stretching them out. “Alright, we just fly to the center, grab the Elements, and boom—we win. Easy.”

“Not quite.” Time Turner interjected. “We don’t know if the Elements are in the center. That’s just an assumption.”

Soarin smirked. “Either way, we’ll figure it out.”

Comet Tail nodded. “We’ll stick together and—”

Something yanked at his magic.

A cold sensation spread from the base of his horn, and before he could react—it vanished.

At the same time, Thunderlane and Soarin cried out in alarm, stumbling forward.

Their wings—gone.

Thunderlane’s eyes widened as he spun in circles, frantically checking his back. “W-Wait, what?! Where are my wings?! Where are my wings?! What happened?!”

Soarin stared at his bare sides in horror. “N-No, no, no! This isn’t right!”

Comet touched his forehead, panic rising in his chest. His horn— his magic — was missing. Like it had never been there at all.

“Looking for something?”

A voice, smooth as silk and dripping with amusement, echoed around them.

And then, he appeared.

Discord materialized in midair, lazily stretching as if he had just woken from a nap. He floated above them, mismatched limbs twisting unnaturally as he gazed down with a smug grin.

“Oh, you should see your faces,” he chuckled, wiping a fake tear from his eye. “Priceless.”

Comet’s heart pounded. “Discord.”

“The one and only.” Discord snapped his fingers, conjuring a small clipboard and reading it over with exaggerated focus. “Now, let’s go over the rules of our little game, shall we?” He adjusted a pair of tiny glasses perched on his snout. “Rule number one: No wings, no magic.” He smirked at Comet and the pegasi. “Can’t have any cheaters, now, can we?”

Thunderlane scowled. “That’s not cheating!”

Discord ignored him, flipping the page. “Rule number two: Everypony plays. If any of you refuse, well… the game ends.” His eyes gleamed. “And I win.”

Braeburn gulped. “Uh… what exactly happens if ya win?”

Discord grinned. “Oh, wouldn’t you like to know?” He leaned closer, whispering, “Let’s just say Ponyville is about to get a lotmore interesting.”

Comet took a step forward, his voice firm. “We’re not backing down.”

Discord clapped his hands together. “Excellent!” With a snap of his fingers, the clipboard vanished, replaced by a large flashing neon sign that read "GOOD LUCK! (You’ll need it.)”

“Ta-ta, my little ponies!” Discord waved mockingly before disappearingin a puff of smoke.

The stallions exchanged uneasy glances.

“Well… that could’ve gone better,” Cheese Sandwich muttered.

Comet inhaled sharply, pushing the fear aside. “It doesn’t matter. We’re in this together. As long as we stick together, nothing can hurt us.”

The ground trembled.

With a deep, earth-shaking rumble, the hedge walls suddenly rose from the ground, spiraling upward like monstrous vines, twisting and growing until they cut through the sky itself.

In an instant, the six of them were separated.

“No—NO!” Comet shouted, his hooves scrambling against the shifting earth as the walls slammed into place. “EVERYPONY—REGROUP IN THE CENTER!”

Through the thick green barriers, muffled voices shouted in agreement.

Then, silence.

Comet clenched his jaw, his heart hammering.

No wings. No magic. No way back.

He took a deep breath.

Then he ran.

Braeburn walked through the winding corridors of the hedge maze, his hooves pressing into the dirt with every careful step. The eerie silence wrapped around him like a thick fog, broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves that made his skin prickle. He had been alone for what felt like hours, calling out for the others, but no answer ever came.

He swallowed his growing unease. "Just gotta keep movin'. We'll meet up in the center," he reminded himself.

But as he turned a corner, something changed. The air felt different—warmer, heavier, like the summer afternoons in Appleloosa. The hedge walls blurred, shifting and bending until the greenery faded away completely, replaced by a familiar dusty street. His heart skipped a beat.

Appleloosa.

Braeburn’s breath caught in his throat. He knew this place. It was his home, but something about it was… off. The sky was an unnatural shade of orange, the sun frozen in place. The town was quiet, too quiet.

Then he heard them.

“Braeburn.”

His ears twitched. That voice—deep and firm, yet filled with the warmth of familiarity. Slowly, he turned his head.

Standing in front of him were his parents.

“Ma? Pa?” Braeburn’s voice cracked, his hooves shaking. “What’re y’all doin’ here?”

Neither of them answered immediately. Pippin’s eyes were piercing, locked onto Braeburn’s own as if searching for something. Then, he spoke, his voice carrying the weight of judgment.

“Son… we need to talk.”

Braeburn gulped. “About what?”

Red Delicious stepped forward, her tone softer but no less serious. “We know, Braeburn. About your feelings for that buffalo.”

Braeburn’s stomach twisted into knots. His mouth opened, but no words came. How did they know? He hadn’t told a soul, hadn’t even worked up the courage to say it out loud to himself. And yet, here they were, looking at him like he’d done somethin’ awful.

Pippin’s frown deepened. “We always thought we raised ya right, son. Taught ya the value of honesty, hard work, family.” His voice turned sharp, disappointed. “But this?”

Braeburn’s ears pinned back. “But… but Ma, Pa—Little Strongheart’s family! Y’all knew her since she was just a calf! Y’all were friends with her ma! We grew up together!”

Red Delicious shook her head, her eyes filled with something Braeburn had never seen directed at him before—disgust. “That was different. She was just a young’un then. But this? This is unnatural, Braeburn. It ain’t right.”

Braeburn felt the ground beneath him sway. “But… I love her.” The words tumbled from his lips before he could stop them.

Silence. The kind that crushed everything in its path.

Pippin’s expression darkened. “Then you ain’t our son.”

The words hit like a buck to the chest. Braeburn stumbled back, his breathing ragged. “W-what?”

Pippin turned away from him. “If you’d just kept quiet, we wouldn’t have had to know. Things would’ve been fine. But no, you had to be honest. You had to ruin everythin’.”

Red Delicious followed, casting him one final glance, filled with nothing but disappointment. “I thought we raised you better.”

They walked away, their figures fading into the dust, leaving Braeburn standing alone in the empty town.

His legs gave out. He collapsed, his hat falling to the ground beside him. His chest ached, his breath coming in short, sharp gasps. His parents… they didn’t love him anymore. They didn’t want him. All because he spoke the truth.

Maybe… maybe he should’ve just kept it to himself. Maybe honesty wasn’t worth it. Maybe if he had never said a word, everything would still be fine.

A low chuckle slithered into his ears.

Braeburn looked up, dazed and broken. Discord loomed above him, grinning with wicked delight.

“Oh dear,” the draconequus mused, feigning concern. “That didn’t go quite as you expected, did it?”

Braeburn didn’t answer. He couldn’t. His body felt numb, his heart hollow.

Discord leaned down, his yellow eyes gleaming. “Honesty, honesty, honesty. Such a noble thing, isn’t it?” He laughed, his voice laced with mockery. “And yet, look where it got you. Rejected. Cast aside. Perhaps it would’ve been better if you’d kept that little truth locked away, hmm?”

Braeburn’s lips parted, but no words came. He wanted to fight back, to deny it, but the pain in his chest was too real. His father’s words echoed over and over in his head. You ain’t our son.

“You don’t have to feel this pain, you know,” Discord whispered, coiling around him like a snake. “I can make it go away. No more worrying about truth, about disappointing anypony.” His clawed finger tapped Braeburn’s forehead. “Just… let go.”

A swirling haze clouded Braeburn’s vision. The thoughts, the doubts, the pain—it all melted away into nothing. His green eyes dulled, a lifeless shade of gray overtaking them.

Discord pulled back, admiring his work. “Well, well, well! I must say, you were quite the challenge, my dear Braeburn, but in the end… honesty always falls apart.”

With a snap of his fingers, the illusion of Appleloosa vanished, the dusty street replaced once more by the twisted hedge maze. Braeburn stood there, his expression blank, his will shattered.

Discord chuckled to himself as he slithered away. “Now then, let’s see how the others are faring…"

Thunderlane trotted cautiously through the winding hedges of the labyrinth. The air was thick, unnaturally silent, save for the soft rustling of the leaves. His muscles were tense, his wings—missing as per Discord’s twisted game—ached to be used. He didn't like this. The others were somewhere in this maze, alone. Vulnerable.

Then, the silence broke.

"Thunder!"

His ears perked up in alarm. That voice—high-pitched, panicked.

"Rumble?" Thunderlane’s breath hitched. He took off in a gallop. His heart pounded against his ribs as he sprinted through the maze, rounding corners recklessly, his hooves skidding against the dirt path.

Then, he saw it.

A wide clearing stretched before him. In its center, his little brother, Rumble, stood frozen, eyes wide in terror. He was surrounded by looming, shadowy figures with piercing white eyes, their wispy forms undulating like smoke. They hissed and snarled, inching closer to the trembling colt.

"Thunderlane! Help me!" Rumble cried, shrinking back as the shadows advanced.

Thunderlane leaped forward. "Hold on, buddy! I'm coming!"

But as soon as he tried to cross into the clearing, something changed. His legs felt heavy—too heavy. Like they were stuck in thick, invisible tar. He strained against it, gritting his teeth, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t move an inch closer to Rumble.

"No! No, no, no—Rumble!" Thunderlane’s voice cracked with desperation.

The shadows closed in. Rumble’s eyes darted to him, pleading. "Why aren’t you helping me?!"

"I—I can't move!" Thunderlane’s wings twitched on instinct, but they weren’t there. He struggled harder, his hooves barely budging.

Rumble let out a sharp, bloodcurdling scream as the shadows lunged at him, engulfing him completely. His voice grew muffled, then silent.

Thunderlane’s breath came in ragged gasps. "No... no, please..." His legs finally gave, and he collapsed onto the cold dirt.

Then—laughter. Slow, taunting applause followed.

Thunderlane lifted his head, his golden eyes flickering with shock and anger. From the fading darkness emerged Discord, his mismatched arms still clapping as he smirked.

"Bravo, Thunderlane. What an admirabl effort. And yet..." Discord’s grin widened cruelly, "...completely useless."

Thunderlane’s chest rose and fell rapidly. His mind was racing, still reeling from what he had just witnessed. "That—wasn’t real," he growled, but there was hesitation in his voice.

"Are you sure?" Discord coiled around him like a serpent, his voice smooth, insidious. "Was it an illusion, or was it a glimpse of the inevitable?"

Thunderlane clenched his jaw, forcing himself to look away.

"You try so hard, don't you?" Discord mused, floating just above him. "Playing the role of the strong big brother. The protector. But deep down, you know the truth."

Thunderlane’s ears pinned back.

"You’re weak."

Thunderlane’s breath hitched.

"You failed him today, and you will fail him again. Next time? It won’t be an illusion. Next time, there won’t be any tricks, no theatrics—just you, standing helplessly as your little brother suffers because you weren’t strong enough."

Discord leaned in close, his voice a whisper now, laced with something dangerous.

"Wouldn’t it be easier," he purred, "if you just... stopped caring?"

Thunderlane shuddered. His whole body was trembling. His heart felt like it was being crushed under the weight of Discord’s words.

Stopped... caring?

He had spent his whole life looking after Rumble. Making sure he had food on the table, a roof over his head. He worked extra shifts at the weather patrol, pushed himself past exhaustion just so Rumble wouldn’t have to worry about anything.

And yet, after all that—if he still wasn’t strong enough to protect him, what was the point?

What was the point of kindness if it meant nothing in the end?

Discord extended his claw, pressing it gently to Thunderlane’s forehead. A sickly glow pulsed between them.

Thunderlane’s golden eyes dulled, the warmth fading into a cold, gray hue. His expression slackened, the weight of his emotions suddenly... gone.

The care. The worry. The love.

Gone.

Discord chuckled, withdrawing his claw. "There we go. Much better."

Thunderlane stood, his face unreadable.

"Now then," Discord mused, floating lazily in the air, "let’s reunite you with your friends."

Thunderlane turned, wordlessly following as Discord vanished in a swirl of chaotic energy.

And just like that, another Element was lost.

Time Turner pressed forward through the maze, his ears flicking at every slight rustle of the hedges. The deeper he went, the heavier the air felt, as if time itself was slowing around him.

Then—

A clock chime.

His heart skipped a beat. That sound—it wasn’t from the maze. It was from home.

The world around him shimmered, the green of the hedges bleeding away, replaced by something else. A cobblestone street. A quaint little shop. A clock tower looming overhead, casting its long shadow across a familiar town.

And standing just outside the shop’s entrance was him.

A colt, no older than seven, his coat a few shades lighter than it was now, his mane a little messier. Young Time Turner.

It was his past.

He watched as his younger self stood in front of the shop, beaming up at a unicorn colt with glasses. His old classmate, Minute Marker. The colt was fidgeting, rubbing his foreleg awkwardly.

“I dunno, Time Turner... I’m just not smart enough to figure it out.”

“Nonsense!” the young Time Turner said cheerfully. “You just need somepony to show you the way! I can lend you my notes, explain things differently—whatever it takes! We can go to the library now if you want!”

Minute Marker’s eyes widened with hope. “Really? You’d do that?”

“Of course! What are friends for?”

And just like that, the two colts turned, trotting toward the library.

Time Turner, the present one, took a step forward, his chest tightening. His hooves felt like lead. He knew exactly what this moment was. What would come next.

“Ahh, what a pivotal moment,” a voice crooned from behind.

Time Turner whirled around, and there he was—Discord, lounging atop a floating hourglass, idly watching the sands fall through his talons.

“You see, this is what fascinates me,” Discord continued, his grin stretching wide. “How one tiny decision, made with the best intentions, can lead to something so tragic.”

“No,” Time Turner whispered.

The vision shifted again.

A different street now. Ponies were gathered in a tight circle, their voices panicked.

At the center of the commotion lay a brown-coated stallion, his hind legs twisted at an unnatural angle. His father.

Sun Dial.

Time Turner staggered back, his breath coming in short gasps.

He remembered this.

A faulty scaffold had given way near the clock tower. The beams had collapsed, sending Sun Dial crashing to the ground. The doctors had done what they could, but the damage was done. His hind legs would never work the same again.

And Time Turner—

—hadn’t been there.

He had been at the library, helping Minute Marker study.

“Generosity,” Discord murmured, his voice dripping with mockery. “That’s why you weren’t there, wasn’t it? Helping a struggling classmate, being the kind one.”

Time Turner squeezed his eyes shut, but the images kept flashing. His father in the hospital, the disappointment in his eyes—not at him, never at him, but at the circumstances.

If he had been there—

Could he have stopped it? Could he have warned his father?

“Maybe,” Discord mused, as if reading his mind. “Maybe not. But oh, my dear Turner, you’ll never know, will you?”

The words cut deep, like ice in his veins.

“If only you had been selfish,” Discord purred. “If only you had prioritized the right pony. Then maybe, just maybe, your father wouldn’t have had to spend the rest of his days dragging himself around.”

Time Turner’s ears pinned back. His breathing was uneven, his hooves trembling.

“I—I didn’t know—”

“Ah, but that’s just it, isn’t it?” Discord chuckled darkly. “You didn’t know. You never know. For all your intelligence, for all your careful planning, you never really have control.”

The vision faded. The maze returned. But the damage was done.

Time Turner stared blankly at the ground, his mind spinning, spiraling into something deep, something dark.

No control.

No matter how much knowledge he gathered, no matter how much he prepared, some things were always out of his hooves.

Maybe Discord was right.

Maybe he should just stop trying.

Discord smirked. He reached forward, pressing his claw against Time Turner’s forehead.

A dim, gray glow pulsed between them. Time Turner’s coat lost its warmth, his eyes dulling as the last embers of kindness flickered out.

“Now, that’s a proper lesson in time management,” Discord said, chuckling as he snapped his fingers.

And with a flicker of chaotic energy, he was gone—taking another broken Element with him.

Cheese Sandwich trotted through the towering hedges of the labyrinth, his usual springy bounce undeterred by the eerie stillness that surrounded him. Even as the thick fog curled at his hooves, even as the maze twisted and turned in impossible ways, he whistled a jaunty tune, refusing to let the atmosphere get to him. After all, this was just another puzzle to solve! Another adventure! And oh, how fun it would be to share a laugh about all this once they were back together.

"Nice try, Discord!" Cheese called out, flashing his usual goofy grin at the sky. "But you’re gonna have to do better than a creepy maze to bring me down! I’ve seen Pinkie’s kitchen after a week of ‘experimental baking’—now that’s a real horror show!"

His chuckles echoed through the maze, but instead of comforting him, the sound seemed to stretch, distorting into something distant… something wrong. The air shifted, the world around him blurring like wet paint running down a canvas.

As he turned a corner, something felt… off. The vibrant green of the hedges dulled, the air turned heavy, and the once-playful chirping of birds faded into silence. Cheese slowed his steps, ears flicking.

A lone wooden door stood in the middle of the path.

Cheese blinked. “Huh. That’s new.”

He hesitated for only a second before reaching out. The moment his hoof touched the knob, the world around him twisted.

Suddenly, he was no longer in the maze. He stood in the middle of his childhood home—a cozy, rustic farmhouse that smelled of warm cheese and fresh bread. The walls were lined with shelves of aging wheels, the very foundation of the Sandwich family's legacy.

The air was thick with a different kind of weight now. A suffocating sadness that pressed against his chest like an invisible hoof.

And then he saw her.

His mother, Sweet Diary, sitting at the kitchen table, her usually bright eyes red and puffy, clutching a letter in her hooves. Cheese could’ve sworn a few gray strands appeared in her hazle mane that day.

“No,” Cheese whispered, his voice cracking. “Not this.”

But the scene played on, indifferent to his plea.

Sweet Diary looked up at a much younger Cheese—smaller, curlier-haired, but still wearing a smile, a smile that faltered as he took in the tears on his mother’s face.

“Mom? What’s wrong?” his younger self asked, ears twitching in concern.

She tried to smile, but it wavered. “Sweetheart… I need to tell you something.”

The letter in her hooves trembled. The words on the page, though blurred in Cheese's memory, burned into his mind as if they had been etched there in fire.

Cantal. His father.

A lone wooden door stood in the middle of the path.

Cheese blinked. “Huh. That’s new.”

He hesitated for only a second before reaching out. The moment his hoof touched the knob, the world around him twisted.

Suddenly, he was no longer in the maze. He stood in the middle of his childhood home—a cozy, rustic farmhouse that smelled of warm cheese and fresh bread. The walls were lined with shelves of aging wheels, the very foundation of the Sandwich family's legacy.

The air was thick with a different kind of weight now. A suffocating sadness that pressed against his chest like an invisible hoof.

And then he saw her.

His mother, Sweet Diary, sitting at the kitchen table, her usually bright eyes red and puffy, clutching a letter in her hooves.

“No,” Cheese whispered, his voice cracking. “Not this.”

But the scene played on, indifferent to his plea.

Sweet Diary looked up at a much younger Cheese—smaller, curlier-haired, but still wearing a smile, a smile that faltered as he took in the tears on his mother’s face.

“Mom? What’s wrong?” his younger self asked, ears twitching in concern.

She tried to smile, but it wavered. “Sweetheart… I need to tell you something.”

The letter in her hooves trembled. The words on the page, though blurred in Cheese's memory, burned into his mind as if they had been etched there in fire.

Gone.

A terrible, wrenching sob ripped through Sweet Diary as she pulled her son into a crushing embrace. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart… your father… he’s… he’s passed away.”

The memory shattered him all over again.

“No…” Cheese muttered, his legs growing weak. “No, please, not this.”

A low chuckle slithered through the air like a snake.

“My, my” came Discord’s voice, smooth and taunting.

Cheese gasped and whirled around. The memory dissolved like mist, leaving him standing in a warped version of the farmhouse, the walls bending and twisting unnaturally. Discord lounged on a floating wheel of cheese, his mismatched limbs resting lazily as he grinned down at the broken pony.

“But hey, don’t let me stop you from laughing,” Discord continued. “After all, that’s what you do, isn’t it? Smile through the pain? Turn sorrow into slapstick?” He leaned down, his grin stretching impossibly wide. “But deep down, you know the truth. It doesn’t matter how funny you are, how many ponies you cheer up. It doesn’t change the fact that your father is gone, and you? You’re still that lost little colt.”

Cheese tried to fight it. He really did. He grasped desperately for something, anything to hold onto. And then—his uncle! Roquefort!

He remembered his uncle's deep, booming laughter, the way he ruffled his mane and told him, “Come on, kiddo, let’s put some smiles back on those faces!” Roquefort had been his rock, his guiding light in the darkness.

But just as quickly as the memory surfaced, it was yanked away.

Discord snapped his fingers, and Cheese’s mind went blank. The warmth, the laughter, the comforting presence of his uncle—it all disappeared like smoke on the wind.

“No,” Cheese gasped, clutching his head. “No, no, I—I had someone—”

“But did you?” Discord purred. “Or was it all just another joke?”

The world spun around him. The once-vivid colors of his mane dulled, his bouncy curls deflating, his signature grin vanishing. The laughter in his soul, the spark that made him who he was, flickered… and went out.

He slumped forward, eyes hollow.

Discord chuckled, snapping his fingers once more. A swirl of chaotic energy wrapped around Cheese Sandwich, sealing him under the spell with no resistance.

“And that, my dear boy,” Discord mused, watching as the last light in Cheese’s eyes dimmed, “is how you break a pony who only knows how to laugh.”

With a satisfied smirk, he vanished into the ether, leaving Cheese Sandwich alone in the endless hedge maze, lost in grief, trapped in silence.

Soarin trudged through the endless twists and turns of the hedge maze, his hooves dragging against the dry earth. The sky above, once a clear blue, had turned an eerie shade of grayish-pink, and the air was thick with a strange, almost electric stillness. He had been searching for the others, calling out their names, but no voice called back.

He flared his useless wings out of instinct, only to remember that Discord had taken them away. His stomach twisted. He hated being grounded like this. He needed to fly—to escape this crushing sense of helplessness that gnawed at his chest.

His thoughts were interrupted when the air suddenly turned thick, and a strange buzzing filled his ears. The hedge walls around him seemed to stretch and twist, and the ground beneath his hooves wavered.

Then, he wasn’t in the maze anymore.

He was a colt again, standing in a cloud schoolyard, the pale light of a cloudy day casting long shadows. A smaller, gangly pegasus stood beside him, his blonde mane flopping over his eyes as he huddled closer to Soarin.

Soarin’s breath hitched. No, not this memory.

A group of older pegasi loomed over them, sneering.

“You really think you’re gonna make it in flight school, Breeze?” one of them jeered.

“I—I will!” Zephyr stammered, trying to hide behind Soarin. “I just—I just need a little help is all!”

“A little help?” another bully snorted. “What, from your babysitter here?” His eyes flicked to Soarin. “This guy your nanny, huh?”

Zephyr didn’t answer.

Soarin stepped forward, flaring his wings. “Leave him alone!”

The bullies’ grins widened.

“What’s this? Little Soarin playing hero?”

And then the world twisted.

This was the part where Zephyr was supposed to stand by him, where he was supposed to stick with Soarin. But instead—

“I-I gotta go!” Zephyr squeaked and took off.

Soarin’s heart stopped. “Zephyr—wait!”

But he was already gone.

The bullies descended.

The blows weren’t the worst part. The bruises would fade, the pain would pass. No, the worst part was the betrayal—the sting of realizing he had been left behind. That the pony he had tried to protect hadn’t even looked back.

The memory blurred, and suddenly he was home, curled up on the couch, his wings sore, his face swollen. And there—standing over him—was his mother, Tippy Tappy.

This was the part where she was supposed to hug him, where she was supposed to tell him how proud she was that he had stood up for his friend.

But instead—

“Soarin,” she said, shaking her head, “you really are hopelessly naive, aren’t you?”

Soarin flinched. “What?”

His mother sighed dramatically, pacing in front of him. “Did you really think everypony you stand by is going to stand by you? Look what it got you, sweetheart.” She gestured at his bruises. “And for what? Some colt who ran the second things got rough?”

Soarin’s ears flattened. “That’s… that’s not what you said.”

“Oh?” Tippy Tappy raised an eyebrow, smirking. “So what did I say?”

Soarin opened his mouth, but the words wouldn’t come.

He remembered her warm embrace. Her soothing words. “You did the right thing, Soarin. I’m proud of you.”

But the memory was slipping through his hooves like sand.

The walls around him distorted, shifting in impossible angles, and suddenly, Discord was there, lounging on a cloud above him, an amused smirk on his face.

“Oh dear, having some trouble remembering?” Discord purred. “Or is it that you don’t want to?”

Soarin’s wings twitched—his missing wings. He gritted his teeth, shaking his head. “That’s not how it went.”

“Are you sure?” Discord stretched lazily. “Memories are such fickle things, Soarin. So easily twisted. And tell me—has your mother ever said she was disappointed in you before?”

Soarin hesitated.

“Ahhh, there it is.” Discord grinned. “That little doubt. Maybe not that day, no, but what about all those times she looked at you, expecting you to do more? To be more? To be a Wonderbolt instead of some lowly weather pony?”

Soarin’s breath hitched.

“Face it,” Discord continued, his voice as smooth as silk. “No matter how much she says she’s proud of you, there’s always that tiny, nagging voice in the back of your mind.” He leaned in close, his golden eyes locking onto Soarin’s. “Isn’t there?”

The walls of the maze returned, but the weight in Soarin’s chest remained. He stood frozen, heart pounding.

“Now then,” Discord drawled, snapping his fingers.

A path appeared before him. A clear, open way out of the maze.

“You have two choices, Soarin.” Discord’s tone was almost conversational. “You can stay here, lost and confused, waiting for friends who may or may not come back for you…”

The hedge walls rustled, dark shadows creeping along their edges.

“…Or,” Discord continued, “you can fly away. Look after yourself, make your own way in life. No more blind loyalty, no more misplaced faith. Just you, free as the wind.”

Soarin stared down the path, his throat dry.

“Tick-tock, my boy,” draconequus chuckled.

Soarin clenched his jaw. His heart screamed at him, telling him to hold on, to remember who he was.

But the doubt—the fear—it gnawed at him.

And then, slowly… he took a step forward.

Darkness swirled around him.

Discord grinned.

And Soarin made his choice.

Author's Note

Sorry for the long wait. I think this episode be even a three parter we will see.

The Return of Harmony part 2

Author's Note

A little suprise for you. Ive' been working on this two parter simultaneously plus I had a surge of motivation. This resulted in this early present. I hope you'll enjoy it.

Next time Comet and Twilight will take it upon themselves to help the Princess of the night to appreciate the holiday of Nightmare Night.

The Return of Harmony part 2

The hedge walls stretched endlessly in every direction. Comet Tail’s hooves barely made a sound against the dirt path as he walked, his ears straining for any sign of his friends.

The silence was thick, heavy. Had they even heard him?

When he had called out, proposing they regroup at the center of the maze, it had been a desperate gamble. A plan to restore some order in this chaos. But with no wings, no magic, and Discord’s tricks at play, his voice might have been swallowed by the labyrinth.

He clenched his jaw, shaking his head. No. I have to trust them. They’ll find a way.

But how long would that take?

Before he could dwell on the thought, the world around him shifted.

With a deep rumble, the hedge walls trembled, their twisted shapes convulsing like living things before suddenly—violently—collapsing. The thick green barriers shrank, crumbling into the ground like sand slipping through an hourglass.

And just like that, the maze was gone.

Comet gasped, staggering as he suddenly found himself standing on a vast, open field. The sky above swirled with unnatural colors, as though reality itself had been smeared with a painter’s brush.

And there, lounging on a lavish red sofa in the middle of it all, was Discord. The draconequus reclined with an oversized bucket of popcorn in his claw, lazily tossing kernels into his mouth.

“Well, well, well,” Discord drawled, smirking. “That was fun while it lasted. But I’m afraid the game is over.”

Comet’s ears pinned back. “What do you mean, over?”

Discord gestured skyward. “Oh, I simply mean that somepony broke the rules.”

Comet followed his claw—and his stomach dropped.

High above them, soaring effortlessly through the sky, was Soarin.

Comet’s mind reeled. That wasn’t possible. Discord had taken their wings—how was Soarin flying?

“H-How—?”

“Ah, yes, your loyal little friend,” Discord purred, lazily stretching. “I must say, I don’t blame him for flying off. Taking care of yourself is the smart move, especially given… well, the sorry state of things.” He smirked. “Honestly, after everything I showed him, you should be surprised he stuck around this long.”

Comet’s heart pounded. “What do you mean?”

He didn’t get an answer.

Because suddenly, his friends started speaking.

Time Turner stood with his head high, a smug smirk playing on his lips. “Honestly, I expected better strategic thinking from the rest of you. If you had half my intellect, perhaps we wouldn’t be in this mess.”

Thunderlane scoffed, rolling his eyes. “Oh great, now he’s an insufferable know-it-all. Just what we needed.” His voice was sharper than usual, practically dripping with sarcasm. “Maybe you should lecture us all on how to be completely useless, Time Turner.”

Braeburn chuckled—except there was something off about it. “Now hold on, y’all. I know exactly where the Elements are. Princess Celestia told me herself.” His confident grin faltered for just a second before he continued. “No, wait—Princess Luna told me! Yeah, she said they were… uh… under my hat!” He tipped his hat up and peered underneath. “Nope! Guess I was mistaken.” He let out another forced laugh.

Cheese Sandwich didn’t react. He just stood there, his eyes dull, his usual bouncy energy completely drained.

Comet’s heart clenched.

They were all under Discord’s spell.

They were all under Discord’s spell.

He turned to the draconequus, eyes burning with anger. “You cheated.”

Discord gasped, placing a paw to his chest. “Me? Cheat? Comet, Comet, Comet. That’s such an ugly word.”

Comet stomped forward. “You said this was a game, but you changed the rules whenever you felt like it! You put them under your spell, you got rid of the maze—”

“Well, duh.” Discord rolled his eyes. “I’m the Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony, not the Spirit of ‘Playing Fair.’” He slithered off his couch, stretching. “And besides—did you really think I was just going to let you wander around and magically fix everything? Where’s the fun in that?”

Comet gritted his teeth. “So what, you were never going to let us win?”

“Oh, Comet.” Discord grinned. “The game was never about finding the Elements of Harmony in the first place.”

Comet’s blood ran cold.

Discord leaned in, his mismatched eyes gleaming. “I never said the Elements were in the maze.”

Comet’s breath caught. Then where—

“But! I suppose I should leave you with some parting words.” Discord straightened, giving a theatrical bow. “As fun as this has been, I have much more chaos to spread, so I’ll leave you boys to it.” He gestured at the bickering group. “Do try not to tear each other apart. Or, well, actually…” He smirked. “Do. That’d be fun to watch.”

With a final snap of his fingers, he vanished.

Comet stood frozen as the echoes of Discord’s laughter faded into the wind.

Behind him, Thunderlane and Braeburn were shouting, Time Turner was scoffing, and Cheese Sandwich sat motionless, looking at nothing.

And above them, Soarin was still flying away.

Comet clenched his jaw.

took a deep breath, forcing himself to focus.

Discord never said the Elements were in the maze.

His words echoed in Comet’s mind:

“To retrieve your missing Elements, just make sense of this change of events. Twists and turns are my master plan. Then find the Elements back where you began.”

Where you began.

Comet’s eyes widened.

“The Elements are in Ponyville.”

The Golden Oak Library came into view as Comet Tail led the group through the streets of Ponyville. He barely had the energy to appreciate the familiarity of the place. The journey back had been exhausting—not physically, but mentally. Discord’s spell had twisted his friends into cruel shadows of themselves, and he had spent every step trying to ignore their bickering, snide remarks, and outright venom.

The door swung open before they even reached it.

Twilight Sparkle stood there with a warm, relieved smile. “Comet! You’re back!” Her eyes flickered over the rest of the group. “And you brought everypony else! That’s great!”

The response she received was anything but warm.

Thunderlane snorted, eyes scanning her with a sneer. “Huh. Guess all that studying didn’t help you shed a few pounds, huh?”

Twilight froze. Her ears twitched, and her expression faltered into stunned confusion. That… That wasn’t like him.

She remembered their first meeting, when she arrived in Ponyville to become Comet’s second assistant. Thunderlane had been the first to direct her to the library, treating her with nothing but kindness and respect. He had even carried some of her books for her.

And now, here he was, throwing an insult like that without a second thought.

Before Twilight could respond, the air around them grew tense.

Comet’s tired expression twisted into one of barely restrained fury. He turned sharply to Thunderlane, his eyes flashing with raw anger.

“Take that back,” he growled, his horn sparking with golden magic.

Thunderlane barely looked fazed. He scoffed. “Or what?”

Comet stepped closer, his horn igniting with a heat that made the air shimmer. “Or else I’ll leave a mark on you that won’t wash off,” he said, voice low and deadly.

The magic swirling around Comet’s horn wasn’t his usual golden glow—it burned like fire, flickering with dangerous intensity.

She had never seen him like this before.

Instinctively, she reached out and placed a hoof on his shoulder. “Comet,” she said softly, her voice wavering just a bit. “Stop.”

Comet stiffened at her touch. The fury in his eyes slowly dimmed as he met her gaze, seeing the concern—the fear—written all over her face.

He swallowed hard and took a step back, his magic flickering out. “...Sorry,” he muttered. “It’s been a rough day.”

Twilight nodded, though the unease lingered. “I can tell.”

A small voice piped up from inside. “Uh… Why do they look like they’ve dumped in a dishwasher?”

Spike stood in the doorway, looking up at the group with a perplexed frown. His eyes lingered on Cheese Sandwich, who was slouched and empty-eyed, and Braeburn, who was sporting a forced, unnatural grin.

“What happened to them?” Spike asked, stepping closer.

“Discord” Comet sighed. He didn’t even have the energy to explain anymore.

Unfortunately, the others weren’t in a mood for patience.

“Why does it matter to you, squirt?” Thunderlane snapped.

Spike flinched. “Whoa—what’s your problem?”

“Problem? No problem at all,” Braeburn cut in, still grinning. “Matter of fact, I was just telling the fellas that we found the Elements an hour ago and decided to take the scenic route back! Ain’t that right, boys?”

Spike raised a skeptical brow. “...That’s a lie, isn’t it?”

Braeburn chuckled, a hollow, humorless sound. “Maybe.”

“Okay, what is going on?” Spike muttered, stepping back toward Twilight.

Twilight sighed. “That’s actually why I called you here, Comet. I was looking through some books, trying to find more clues, and… I found something.”

She turned and led them inside. The library was as it always was—organized, cozy, and filled with the scent of parchment.

Twilight trotted to a nearby table and pulled out an old book: The Guide to the Elements of Harmony.

Comet frowned. “I already read that.”

Twilight flipped it open to a very specific page.

Inside the cut-out section of the book, gleaming in the dim light, sat five familiar necklaces and a tiara.

The Elements of Harmony.

Comet’s eyes widened. “You’re kidding.”

Twilight shook her head. “Discord never hid them in the maze. He put them here the whole time.”

For a moment, Comet felt a wave of relief. They had them. They could fix everything.

Wow, yeah, real great job,” Thunderlane muttered. “Glad we wasted our time for nothing.”

Cheese yawned. “Cool, whatever.”

Braeburn smirked. “Told y’all I knew where they were.”

Time Turner scoffed. “Honestly, if anypony had actually listened to me from the start, we wouldn’t have been in this predicament in the first place.”

The hope drained out of Comet’s face. He turned, his teeth clenched. “You know what?” His voice was sharp, laced with frustration. “I don’t care anymore.”

He didn’t even give them a choice. He simply put the necklaces around their necks.

One by one.

Thunderlane. Cheese. Braeburn. Time Turner.

None of them reacted. None of them cared.

Twilight bit her lip. “Comet…”

She hesitated.

“Where’s Soarin?”

Comet stiffened.

The words hit him like a gut punch, bringing back the image of Soarin flying away, leaving them behind.

Leaving him behind.

Comet’s agitation boiled over. He turned sharply and shoved the Element of Loyalty onto Spike’s neck.

“There,” he snapped. “You’re the new Element of Loyalty.”

Spike startled. “What? Me?” He reached up to touch the necklace.

Comet didn’t say anything else. He simply turned and walked toward the door.

The others followed, not because they believed in their cause, but because they had nothing better to do.

They stepped outside—

And standing there, leaning against a cotton candy cloud with a knowing smirk, was Discord.

“Well, well,” Discord purred, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Took you long enough.”

Comet Tail stepped forward, his expression hardened. “It’s finished, Discord. I solved your pretentious riddle.” He lifted his chin, defiant. “Now you’re done for.”

Discord gasped theatrically, snapping his fingers. A large, red-and-white target appeared on his torso. “Oh dear, you got me,” he said, placing a paw over his forehead in mock distress. “I suppose this is where I tremble in fear.” He snorted, then smirked. “Well? Fire when ready.”

The Elements stood motionless. The air was heavy with tension, but none of them reacted.

Discord lazily stretched before turning his mismatched eyes on each of them. “But before we get to the grand finale, let’s take a moment to appreciate how… pitiful you all look.” He hovered in front of Time Turner. “A genius with a brain so inflated he can’t even see his own insignificance. Let’s call you Doctor Delusional.”

Time Turner scoffed, looking down his nose at him. “Your childish insults are beneath me.”

“Oh-ho! Exactly.” Discord grinned before turning to Cheese Sandwich. “And you. The life of the party, turned into a walking raincloud. What should we call you? Cheese Stagnant?”

Cheese only shrugged. “Sure. Whatever.”

Discord moved on, standing beside Braeburn. “And here we have Braeburn the Bamboozler. I have to say, out of all of you, your change is the most entertaining. I mean, really? A pathological liar? I didn’t even need to work that hard on you.”

Braeburn chuckled. “That’s where you’re wrong, partner. I never lie.”

Discord guffawed, clapping his hands. “Oh, I love this game!” He turned to Thunderlane next. “And you—our resident Thunderlame. The most loyal friend turned into a venom-spitting snake. I should keep you around, just for the comedy.”

Thunderlane narrowed his eyes. “Go buck yourself.”

Discord wiped an imaginary tear from his eye. “Such poetry.” He then held up his claw, conjuring a silhouette of a flying pegasus. “Oh, and let’s not forget Soarin the Spineless! The Element of Loyalty who abandoned his friends at the first sign of trouble. You have to admit, that one’s ironic even by my standards.”

Comet clenched his teeth. “Enough.”

“Oh, but I saved the best for last.” Discord snapped his fingers, and in a flash, he appeared beside Spike, wrapping an arm around the young dragon.

“And you,” he cooed, snapping his fingers to summon a tiny crown that landed atop Spike’s head. “Sir Serves-a-Lot! The little dragon who so desperately wants to be useful, but let’s be honest—between fetching books and writing letters, you’re basically a glorified pet, aren’t you?”

Comet’s chest burned with fury. “That’s enough!”

But when he turned to his friends, he saw no anger in their eyes. No drive to fight back.

Just dull, grey indifference.

“Let’s get this over with,” Thunderlane muttered.

The Elements of Harmony glowed. The air grew thick with energy. Comet clenched his teeth, pouring every last bit of his willpower into activating the spell—

Nothing happened.

The light around them faded into nothing.

Discord burst into hearty laughter, falling onto his back and kicking his legs in the air. “Oh-hoho! The looks on your faces! You really thought that would work? Oh, priceless!”

Twilight took a hesitant step forward, concern flashing across her face as she watched Comet’s anger boil over.

Discord, still grinning, floated back into the air. “Well, that settles it, doesn’t it? Since today, chaos is the ruling magic in Equestria. Say it with me now—” He cleared his throat and spread his arms dramatically.

“Discord rules, Celestia drools!”

He cackled and snapped his fingers. In an instant, he zoomed backward, sliding effortlessly across the ground, which had suddenly turned into a slick road made entirely of soap. With one final, mocking wave, he vanished into the horizon.

The Elements—if they could still be called that—began removing their necklaces.

Thunderlane tossed his aside. “Guess we’re done here.”

Cheese twirled his lazily before flinging it over his shoulder. “Lame.”

Braeburn sighed dramatically. “Welp, that was a waste of time.”

Time Turner adjusted his cravat. “I told you all it wouldn’t work.”

One by one, they left, disappearing into the streets of Ponyville.

Comet stood motionless, watching them go.

Then, he let out a bitter laugh. “With friends like them, who needs enemies?”

Twilight approached him, gentle but firm. “Comet… I know you’re upset, but you can’t let this break you. They’re not themselves, but that doesn’t mean they’re gone forever. You just need to—”

“Forgive them?” Comet cut her off, his voice sharp. “Reconcile? Act like everything will magically be fine just because we want it to be?”

Twilight hesitated. “I—I didn’t mean—”

Comet turned on her, his frustration boiling over.

“You always do this! Ever since we were foals, you’ve had this naïve—no, childish—way of thinking about relationships! You act like everything can be fixed with a simple apology, a few kind words, and some grand lesson in friendship!”

Twilight’s ears flattened.

Comet continued, his voice rising. “But that’s not how the real world works! Ponies hurt each other! They fail each other! And sometimes, things break beyond repair!” His eyes were stormy, his tone laced with something raw. “Not everypony gets a storybook ending, Twilight!”

Her eyes glistened, and for a moment, she looked genuinely hurt.

Spike stepped between them, puffing out his chest. “That’s enough, Comet!” His voice trembled with anger. “You have no right to talk to her like that! Do you even know how hard Twilight worked while you were gone? She barely slept, she combed through every book, she refused to give up because she believed in you! And this is how you treat her?”

Comet’s gaze snapped to Spike, his fury redirected.

“Oh, please,” he scoffed. “And what would you know about hard work? When I was studying, you were stuffing your face! When I was pushing myself, you were lazing around, leeching off mom like some freeloading pet!”

Spike’s breath caught in his throat. He took a step back, eyes wide. “W-what?”

Comet wasn’t done. “You never had to work for anything! You just sat there, basking in everyone else’s effort, never contributing, never earning your place! And yet you still expect respect?”

Spike’s claws clenched. “Do you mean that?” His voice was small, wounded.

Comet’s jaw tightened. “Yes. I do.”

Silence.

Twilight swallowed the lump in her throat. “Is there anything we can do?”

Comet turned away. “Yeah.” His voice was cold. “Leave me alone.”

Twilight’s breath hitched.

“…Or go to Tartarus for all I care.”

Spike flinched.

Twilight took a deep, shaky breath, blinking back tears. She turned, nudging Spike gently. “Come on, Spike. Let’s go.”

Spike hesitated, but after one last look at Comet—one filled with betrayal—he followed.

The door to Golden Oak creaked shut behind them.

Comet stood alone.

For a long time, he didn’t move.

Then, with a raw, guttural scream, he let everything out.

His voice echoed across the empty town, filled with nothing but rage and despair.

When the last of his breath left him, he lowered his head.

And for the first time in a long time, he cried.

The tears came in abundance, soaking his fur, falling freely to the ground.

Slowly, his golden coat darkened, losing all of its warmth, all of its color.

Until, finally, there was nothing left of Comet Tail but grey.

Ponyville was a warped nightmare of its former self.

The sky swirled with unnatural hues, cotton candy clouds dripped chocolate milk, and gravity itself seemed to twist at random intervals. Buildings floated upside down, roads zigzagged in impossible patterns, and the air was thick with the scent of something sickly sweet yet rancid. But Comet Tail barely noticed any of it.

His hooves dragged against the warped cobblestone streets, his golden coat dulled to the same lifeless grey as everything else Discord had tainted. He wasn’t sure where he was going—perhaps nowhere at all. The ache in his chest was heavier than any direction he could take. His mind was an empty void, void of care, void of hope.

Then he stepped forward, and the ground beneath him clicked.

Before he could react, the world erupted around him in an explosion of red. Thick, viscous liquid splattered across his entire body, soaking into his coat and mane. It dripped from his horn and slid into his mouth before he could spit it out.

Tomato sauce.

The taste hit his tongue like a lightning strike.

Suddenly, everything around him faded away. Chaos-infested Ponyville disappeared, and he was no longer standing in the middle of a broken world. Instead, he was sitting at a warm, wooden table, the smell of baked eggplant, cheese, and rich marinara sauce filling the air.

“Eat up, boys,” Twilight Velvet’s voice rang in his ears, gentle yet firm. “I made extra just for you, Comet.”

Comet turned his head. There she was—Twilight Velvet, smiling at him with that motherly warmth she always had. Across from him sat Twilight, her muzzle buried in a thick book as she absently twirled her fork in the pasta. Night Light chuckled at her absentmindedness and nudged her plate closer.

“I know you love studying, sweetheart, but don’t let your food get cold.”

Comet’s breath hitched.

Night Light. His mind whispered the name with reverence, a pang of longing striking deep in his chest. A stallion who had welcomed him into his home, who had treated him like one of his own. Who had been the closest thing to a father Comet ever had.

The memories came like a flood.

Twilight’s contagious laughter as they ran through the halls of Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, studying late into the night until their eyes burned with exhaustion. The way Twilight Velvet always had an extra plate set for him at dinner, how Night Light ruffled his mane whenever he passed by.

And then, Spike.

His heart clenched as the memory took over.

The day of his entrance exam. The nerves that had turned his stomach into knots. The overwhelming magic surging through him as his spell connected, the blinding flash of light—and then, the tiny, purple dragon looking up at him with wide, innocent eyes.

He remembered cradling the baby dragon in his forelegs, the sheer joy and terror at what he had done.

“Mom, look! I did it! I really did it!”

Falling Star’s face blurred into view, her blue eyes shining with pride and something deeper—something he had never fully understood until now.

“Oh, my little star, you’ve brought something truly special into our family.”

And she had. Because from that day on, Spike had been more than just a dragon. He was his brother. His family. Loved not only by him, but by their mother, who had raised both her biological and adopted son with equal care, equal warmth, equal devotion.

Then the memories shifted again.

Ponyville.

Thunderlane, grinning as he helped him haul his bags into his new home, cracking jokes to ease his nerves.

Cheese Sandwich, bouncing into his life like a whirlwind of laughter and joy, filling the air with his infectious energy.

Braeburn, always ready to lend a helping hoof at Sweet Apple Acres, his honest work ethic reminding Comet of everything that made Ponyville feel like home.

Soarin, never wavering, never hesitating in his loyalty, even when his dreams of the Wonderbolts seemed so far away.

Time Turner, offering his inventions and ideas to better the world, his generosity shining in ways few truly appreciated.

And Twilight.

The train ride home after the Gala. The confession he never saw coming. The way her voice had trembled, her eyes filled with vulnerability. The way she kissed him—soft, hesitant, but filled with so much emotion it stole his breath away.

His Twilight. His brother. His friends. His family.

And Discord had taken all of it from him.

The color surged back into his coat in a rush of golden light. His breath came hard and fast, his heart hammering in his chest. His mind, once clouded, was now clear.

He wasn’t going to let this stand.

He would repair what was broken. He would fight for his friends, for his brother, for the love he had nearly lost.

And Discord?

Comet Tail’s eyes darkened, determination hardening every fiber of his being.

He was going to make him hurt.

Not physically. No, that would be too easy. But Discord loved his freedom above all else.

Comet was going to take that from him.

No more running. No more doubts.

He turned toward the town square, his horn igniting with golden light.

The Golden Oaks Library stood eerily still beneath the chaotic sky, the warm glow from inside contrasting with the storm of madness outside. Comet Tail hesitated at the door, his hoof trembling as he reached for the handle. His chest felt hollow, his legs weak, but he knew he had no choice.

He pushed open the door.

Twilight and Spike were inside. They both looked up from where they sat—Twilight with a book open but untouched, Spike holding a quill that had long since stopped writing. Their faces were unreadable, but their posture said enough. Twilight’s ears flicked slightly, her expression carefully controlled. Spike, arms crossed, let out a short huff, his tail flicking with restrained irritation.

Neither of them spoke first.

Comet swallowed, his throat dry. “I... I don’t know where to begin.”

Twilight’s eyes narrowed just a fraction. “Try the beginning,” she said, voice smooth but laced with something sharp beneath it.

Spike didn’t add anything, but his stare bore into Comet like a judge awaiting a verdict.

Comet took a shaky breath. “I was horrible to both of you. No—worse than horrible. I let my anger, my frustration, my failure consume me, and I lashed out at the two pon-... creatures I care about most in this world. There is no excuse for what I said, no justification for how I treated you.” His voice cracked, and he forced himself to continue. “But I need you. Not just for Equestria’s sake, but because... I don’t know who I am without you two.”

Spike’s brows furrowed, but his arms loosened slightly. Twilight remained silent, her face unreadable.

Comet turned to Spike first. “Spike… You’re my brother.” He stepped forward, desperation creeping into his voice. “Maybe not by blood, but that never mattered to me. I just let my own pain blind me to the truth. You have always been by my side, helping me in ways I never truly appreciated. You were never just a ‘helper’ or some assistant. You are one of the bravest, kindest souls I have ever known.”

Spike’s lips pressed together, and he looked away, blinking rapidly.

Comet continued, his voice shaking. “When I said those things to you, I didn’t just hurt you—I shattered something between us. And I hate myself for it. I don’t expect you to forgive me, but please… I can’t do this without my little brother.”

Spike’s shoulders trembled slightly, but he didn’t speak yet.

Comet turned to Twilight, his heart hammering. “And you,” he whispered. “Twilight, I have admired you since the moment we met. I have spent years convincing myself that I was somehow ‘better’ than you, that I deserved my position as Celestia’s prodigy.” He let out a bitter laugh. “But I was never even close. You should have been the one chosen, not me. You are the smartest, most determined pony I have ever met, and every success I’ve had has only been possible because I learned from you.”

Twilight inhaled sharply but still remained motionless.

“I let my pride and my pain twist everything,” he admitted. “I was angry—not at you, but at myself. Because deep down, I knew the truth. I was never worthy of that title, of Celestia’s trust. But you were. And when I lost everything today, I thought… maybe it was because I was never meant to have it in the first place.”

His voice cracked, and his legs nearly buckled under the weight of his emotions. “I won’t ask for your forgiveness. I don’t deserve it. But Equestria is still in danger. And even if you hate me, even if I have to fight this battle alone… I need to try to fix what I’ve broken. I need to stop Discord.” He met their eyes, pain and raw desperation shining in his golden gaze. “Please… Will you help me?”

Twilight stared at him for a long, agonizing moment. Then, without a word, she stepped forward.

Comet barely had time to process before Twilight’s lips met his.

The world blurred around him. His breath hitched, his heart freezing in his chest before pounding with a force that shook him to his core. The warmth of her lips, the delicate way she pressed against him, the quiet exhale that escaped her—it was as if something shattered inside him, only to be reforged in that instant.

And then, he felt it.

A whisper of something in the depths of his soul.

Her feelings—buried, restrained, but there. Returning to him, piece by piece.

When she pulled away, she rested her forehead against his, nuzzling him softly. “It’s good to have you back.”

Comet’s breath shuddered. He wanted to speak, to say something, anything, but he could only close his eyes, basking in the feeling of being whole again, even if only for a moment.

A second later, he was nearly knocked over as Spike barreled into him, wrapping his arms around his chest.

“You’re an idiot,” Spike muttered, voice thick with emotion. “But you’re our idiot.”

Comet let out a breathless laugh, his forelegs moving on instinct to pull them both closer. They stayed like that for a while—silent, yet saying everything that mattered.

Finally, Twilight pulled back, a small smirk forming on her lips. “So… what do we do now?”

Comet exhaled, gathering himself. “We need to remind the others who they really are. They’re still under Discord’s influence, and I refuse to let him win.”

Twilight’s smirk widened. “Well, I might just have an idea where to begin.”

Comet’s lips curled into a small, hopeful smile. “Then let’s get to work.”

The chaotic landscape of Ponyville stretched around them, warped and twisted by Discord’s magic. The skies swirled with unnatural colors, and checkerboard-patterned ground replaced the familiar earth. As Comet Tail, Twilight, and Spike navigated through the madness, their eyes locked onto their target.

Thunderlane stood in the middle of the road, squaring up against one of the absurdly tall, giraffe-legged bunnies that now roamed the town. His teeth were bared, his wings flared, and his stance rigid with aggression. His coat was still dulled to an almost lifeless gray, his eyes filled with hostility.

Twilight took a deep breath and stepped forward. “Thunderlane—”

“Get lost!” he snapped, not even turning to look at them. “I don’t have time for this!”

“We’re not leaving without you,” Comet said, his tone firm but not confrontational.

Thunderlane finally turned to face them, his expression a storm of irritation and contempt. “I don’t care what you want! Why don’t you go solve your own problems and let me live my life?”

Before Comet or Twilight could respond, a small voice piped up from behind them.

“Thunderlane?”

Thunderlane froze. His eyes flickered, his ears twitched. Slowly, his gaze moved past Comet and Twilight, landing on the small gray colt standing behind them.

Rumble.

His little brother took a hesitant step forward, his big lavender eyes filled with hope and sadness. “Do you remember what you told me when I was six? When you were teaching me how to fly?”

Thunderlane’s breath hitched. The world around him seemed to blur, and a memory clawed its way to the surface of his mind.

It was a warm afternoon, the kind of day perfect for flying. A teenage Thunderlane stood in a grassy field outside their home, his younger brother fluttering uncertainly a few hooves above the ground. Rumble was small, his wings still too weak to carry him far.

“Higher, Rumble! Just a little bit more!” Thunderlane called, his voice full of encouragement.

Rumble gritted his teeth, flapping as hard as he could, determination written all over his face. He managed to rise just above ten hooves off the ground before his wingbeats faltered. He gasped as he lost control, plummeting down.

But Thunderlane was already moving. He shot forward, catching Rumble in his forelegs before he hit the ground. The impact pushed them both onto the grass, but Thunderlane didn’t let go.

For a moment, there was only the sound of their heavy breathing. Then, Thunderlane pulled back just enough to look his little brother in the eyes.

“You okay, squirt?”

Rumble nodded, though his lips wobbled. “I— I tried…”

Thunderlane smiled, ruffling his mane. “You did great. And you’ll do even better next time.”

Rumble sniffled. “What if I fall again?”

Thunderlane’s expression softened. He placed a hoof on his little brother’s chest, right over his heart. “Then I’ll be there to catch you. Always.” His voice grew even more gentle. “Even if it’s just us against the world, I’ll always be here for you, Rumble. I’d gladly give my life away if it meant keeping you safe.”

Rumble’s eyes shone with trust, and he threw his small hooves around Thunderlane in a tight hug. Thunderlane hugged him back just as fiercely, promising himself that he would never let anything happen to his little brother.

Back in the present, Thunderlane gasped as if surfacing from deep water. His entire body trembled, and the dull gray of Discord’s spell cracked and peeled away, revealing his natural dark gray coat beneath it. His golden eyes, once cold and distant, now filled with emotion.

Tears welled up as he stared at Rumble, his breath shaky. “I… I remember.”

Rumble’s eyes overflowed with tears. With a choked sob, he launched himself at his brother, wrapping his small hooves around Thunderlane’s neck. “I missed you, Thunderlane!”

Thunderlane returned the embrace just as tightly, his own tears falling freely. “I missed you too, little bro.”

They held each other for a long moment, the warmth between them cutting through the cold grip of Discord’s magic.

When they finally pulled apart, Thunderlane wiped his eyes and turned to the others, shame flickering across his face. “I… I’m sorry. For everything.” His gaze landed on Twilight, and his ears flattened. “Especially to you. No stallion should ever talk to a mare like that.”

Twilight smiled warmly. “Apology accepted.”

The rest of the group nodded, offering their own reassurances.

Comet stepped forward, determination in his eyes. “We’ve got work to do. The next stop is Sweet Apple Acres.”

Thunderlane gave a firm nod, standing tall once more. “Then let’s go get our friends back.”

With renewed purpose, the group turned toward their next destination, hope burning in their hearts.

Comet Tail, Twilight, Spike, and Thunderlane arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, only to find the once orderly and hardworking Apple family in a state of utter chaos. Apple trees had been uprooted and replanted upside down. Pies floated in mid-air, spinning like tops. Granny Smith tap-danced on the porch, singing nonsensical rhymes, while Apple Bloom and Big Mac played leapfrog over barrels of cider. It was a bizarre sight, but none of them had time to focus on it. They needed to find Braeburn.

"This ain't right," Thunderlane murmured, narrowing his eyes as they walked past the barn.

Then, they saw him, standing by a pile of hay bales, pretending to inspect them. He glanced at them briefly before turning away, feigning disinterest.

"Braeburn!" Comet called.

The stallion turned and blinked at them as if they were complete strangers. "Sorry, partners, y’all must have me confused with somepony else. Name’s… uh… Golden Spur! Yep, that’s me!" he said, a wide, insincere grin plastered on his face.

Thunderlane let out an exasperated sigh. "Oh, for crying out loud—" he lunged forward, grabbing Braeburn in a tight hold

“Hold him tight!” Exclaimed Comet.

The stallion’s horn glowed as he pressed it against Braeburn’s forehead, channeling his magic into his friend’s mind. At first, Braeburn resisted, squirming and shaking his head. But then, images—long-buried memories—began to resurface.

Braeburn saw himself as a colt, running freely across the plains of Appleloosa. His small legs carried him over the golden fields as he raced alongside Little Strongheart. She was swift, her hooves barely touching the earth, her laughter ringing in his ears. They raced the wind, challenging each other, neither wanting to lose. He remembered how his heart had pounded—not just from exertion but from something deeper. Even as foals, he had admired her spirit, her kindness, and the fire in her eyes. Over time, admiration grew into something more, something warm and steady.

The image shifted, and suddenly, he was standing in Sweet Apple Acres, greeted by Granny Smith’s ever-welcoming embrace. She was more than just an elder; she was the heart of the family, always ready with a story or a knowing smile. He saw Applejack, his cousin, always challenging him to contests, their competitive streak making every family gathering an exciting event. Big Mac, with his calm and quiet nature, was his rock—someone he could rely on without a second thought. Apple Bloom, bright-eyed and full of energy, looked up to him like an older brother. And then there was Uncle Bright Mac and Aunt Butter Cup, who had always been there with warm hugs and words of encouragement. Their love for each other had been something Braeburn always admired and hoped to find for himself one day.

The next memory was sharper, more vivid. He was sixteen, standing in the orchard when his aunt’s old friend, Tippy Tappy, arrived with her son. She had placed a massive order of apple jam and needed extra hooves to carry it back to Cloudsdale. Soarin, young and eager, had stepped up to help, his eyes gleaming with excitement at the challenge.

That was the first time he methim. Braeburn had been skeptical at first—a pegasus in an apple orchard? But Soarin had surprised him, showing a strong work ethic and a love for competition that matched his own. They had ended up racing, testing their speed and endurance, laughing as they pushed each other to their limits. Their bond grew over the years, strengthened by shared interests and friendly rivalries.

He remembered how that friendship had expanded—how Soarin had introduced him to his childhood friend Thunderlane, and how that had led him to meet Time Turner, a quirky but brilliant stallion from the Griffish Isles. And finally, he remembered the day he met Cheese Sandwich and Comet Tail, two very different ponies arriving in Ponyville at the same time for entirely different reasons, but both becoming part of his life in an irreplaceable way.

Braeburn gasped as color surged back into his coat. His eyes welled up with tears, and he turned to Thunderlane, Comet, Twilight, and Spike, a mix of emotions playing across his face. “I—I remember,” he whispered. Then, looking past them, he saw his family, still trapped under Discord’s influence. His gaze hardened with determination.

“I’m so sorry for all the lies,” he said, voice trembling. “I ain’t ever gonna let that happen again. I swear I’ll do whatever it takes to bring my family back.”

Comet Tail gave a satisfied nod. "Good. Because we’re going to need you at your best for what’s next."

Braeburn raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly is next?"

Comet smirked. "I hope you remember your best jokes. Because we're about to cheer up the saddest party planner in Ponyville."

Twilight, Spike, Comet, Thunderlane, and Braeburn walked through the distorted streets of Ponyville, their goal clear: restore Cheese Sandwich to his former, joyful self. When they finally found him, their hearts sank. The once vibrant and boisterous party planner sat in the middle of the now desaturated Sugarcube Corner, staring blankly at the floor. Even Pinkie Pie, the one pony who could always bring a smile to any face, sat beside him, looking utterly defeated.

"It’s no use," Pinkie said glumly, her ears drooping. "I’ve tried every joke in my book, every gag I could think of… but nothing works. He just sits there, like a balloon that’s lost all its air."

Cheese Sandwich barely acknowledged their arrival, merely sighing as he traced idle patterns on the wooden floor.

Comet frowned. "This might be harder than we thought."

They each took turns trying to cheer him up. Twilight recited some of the funniest limericks from books she had read. Spike attempted his best impression of a fancy Canterlot noble tripping over a banana peel. Thunderlane even tried poking fun at himself, making exaggerated poses and boasting about his obviously exaggerated athletic prowess. But nothing. Cheese remained as unmoved as a statue, his eyes dull, his mane limp.

Braeburn sighed, running a hoof through his mane. "There’s gotta be somethin’. Cheese, don’t ya remember all the fun times we had? The parties, the laughs?"

Still nothing.

Then, like a candle flickering in a dark room, an idea sparked in Comet’s mind. He turned to Braeburn. "Didn’t Cheese once mention a joke that his Uncle Roquefort loved? The one he always said was his favorite?"

Braeburn’s ears perked up. "Yeah, he did. Cheese said his uncle used to tell it all the time."

Comet turned back to Cheese and, in as confident a voice as he could muster, said, "Alright, listen up. Why don’t skeletons fight each other?"

For a moment, there was silence. Then, like the first drops of rain before a storm, memories started to surface in Cheese Sandwich’s mind.

He saw his Uncle Roquefort’s warm smile as he comforted a young Cheese at his father’s funeral, holding him close and whispering the same joke in his ear. He remembered how his uncle had bought him his very first joke book, teaching him the magic of humor and the joy it could bring to others. He saw himself, a colt, watching his uncle perform Harlequinade acts, mesmerized by the art of making ponies laugh.

The memories surged forth like a tidal wave. He saw his mother’s weary face light up when he cracked his first joke after his father’s passing. He remembered the day he told her that he wanted to be a comedian and an entertainer, and though hesitant, she had given him her blessing, because what mother wouldn’t want her child to follow their dreams?

He saw himself traveling across Equestria, bringing laughter to every town, every city, every creature he met. He remembered the day he arrived in Ponyville, planning a surprise party for Comet Tail. Comet had been reluctant at first, but by the end of the party, he had been smiling just like the rest of them. He saw the friends he had made—the bonds he had forged. And just like that, the grayness melted away, his coat returning to its bright yellow hue, his mane poofing back into its usual fluffy mess.

With a dramatic gasp, Cheese Sandwich stood up. "Because they don’t have the guts!" he exclaimed, finishing the joke with a wide grin.

Pinkie let out a high-pitched squeal and tackled him in a tight hug. "You’re back! Oh, Cheesy, I missed you so much!" She beamed before planting a playful peck on his cheek, causing Cheese to turn a shade darker.

Comet and the others exchanged relieved smiles. "Welcome back, Cheese," Comet said, nodding approvingly.

Cheese rubbed the back of his head. "Yeesh. That was like being trapped in a joke shop with no punchlines." He turned to Pinkie. "Thanks for not giving up on me."

"Duh!" Pinkie giggled. "That’s what friends do!"

Comet cleared his throat, drawing everyone’s attention. "Alright, everypony. We’ve got another friend to bring back." He glanced toward the distance, where the once orderly lab of Time Turner now stood in a state of chaotic disarray. "Time to remind a certain clockmaker who he really is."

he group made their way through the chaotic streets of Ponyville, their numbers now bolstered by the return of Cheese Sandwich. They moved with renewed purpose, led by Twilight, Comet Tail, and Spike, with Thunderlane, Braeburn, and Cheese Sandwich flanking them. However, they had one more companion for this task—Ditzy Doo.

As they approached Time Turner’s workshop, the air grew heavy with tension. The once-inventive and vibrant space was now cluttered with broken contraptions, scattered blueprints, and an overwhelming sense of neglect. The stallion himself sat behind his workbench, absentmindedly scribbling nonsense on a parchment, his colors muted and his expression cold. When he looked up at them, his once-bright blue eyes were laced with disdain.

“Well, well,” Time Turner drawled, resting his chin on his hoof. “If it isn’t the heroic band of misfits, come to try and save me from myself. How noble.” His gaze flickered to Ditzy, and his lips curled into a cruel smirk. “And you even brought your favorite klutz along. Tell me, Ditzy, did you trip over yourself trying to get here? Or perhaps you baked another batch of your... uniquely textured muffins?”

Ditzy flinched, the insult cutting deeper than she wanted to admit. But instead of snapping back, she steadied herself and took a deep breath. With a soft smile, she stepped forward and presented him with a plate of freshly baked blueberry muffins. “Why don’t you try one?” she asked, her voice gentle despite the hurt lingering in her golden eyes.

“I made these for you,” she said softly. “Your favorite. Blueberry.”

Time Turner sneered but reluctantly picked up a muffin. “Fine. If it’ll get you to stop looking at me like that.” He took a bite.

The moment the soft, sweet pastry hit his tongue, something inside him shifted. The taste, so familiar yet so distant, pulled at something deep within him. His mind fogged, and then—

A memory surfaced.

He had just arrived in Ponyville, a foreigner from the Griffish Isles with no real connections, just his love for science and an insatiable curiosity. He had been walking down the street, his muzzle buried in a notebook, when something collided with him at full force. Papers flew, ink spilled, and he tumbled onto the cobblestone road.

“Oh no! I’m so sorry!”

A gray pegasus with blonde hair was sprawled on the ground beside him, her golden eyes frantically darting in different directions. He had heard of her before. Most ponies called her clumsy. Some called her a nuisance.

But Time Turner didn’t feel that way.

Instead, he picked up his fallen notebook, glanced at her, and smiled. “Now that was a spectacular crash landing. Do you always make such grand entrances?”

She blinked at him, startled, before laughing awkwardly. “Uh… sometimes?

He helped her up and, as he studied her face, he found himself saying, “You know, your eyes are quite remarkable.”

Ditzy tilted her head. “You… don’t think they’re weird?”

“Weird? No. Unique? Absolutely. You have a perspective that nopony else does. Quite literally, in fact.”

She beamed at him, and from that moment on, something shifted.

Ditzy introduced him to her little sister, Dinky, a filly full of energy and warmth. And through Dinky, he met Pipsqueak, a colt from the Griffish Isles like himself. For the first time, he wasn’t just some foreign oddball with a strange fascination for clocks and science. He was part of something. He had friends.

The memories flowed faster now.

Late nights spent in his workshop, tinkering with new inventions while Ditzy watched with fascination, offering ideas that were often unconventional but surprisingly insightful.

The warm scent of fresh blueberry muffins greeting him every Sunday morning when Ditzy would bring a batch over, Dinky bouncing at her side with a beaming smile.

Long conversations about everything and nothing—dreams, fears, hopes. He had never spoken so freely with any pony before her.

He found himself looking forward to Sundays. Not for the muffins, not even for the conversations, but for her. The way she smiled when she saw him, the way she listened intently to his theories, the way she never treated him like he was strange.

Now, as his colors returned, as warmth flooded back into his soul, he realized just how much he had taken her for granted. How much he had hurt her just moments ago.

Time Turner’s eyes welled up as he stared at her. “Ditzy, I…” His voice wavered, thick with emotion. “I’m so sorry. For everything I said. For how I treated you. You’ve always been there for me, and I—”

Ditzy didn’t let him finish. She threw her hooves around him, holding him close. “It’s okay,” she whispered. “I know that wasn’t really you.”

He clung to her, burying his face in her mane as the guilt and sorrow gave way to relief. When they finally pulled apart, he turned to the rest of the group. “I owe all of you an apology. I wasn’t myself, but that doesn’t excuse how I acted.”

Thunderlane stepped forward and playfully ruffled his mane. “Hey, we’ve all been there. What matters is you’re back.”

The others nodded in agreement, offering smiles of reassurance.

Comet Tail smirked. “Good to have you back, Turner. But we’re not done yet. There’s still one more Element we need to restore.”

Time Turner wiped his eyes and straightened up, his usual confident spark returning. “Then let’s not waste any more time. We have a weather pony to save.

Thunderlane, Rainbow Dash and Comet (thanks to the special spell) hovered over a patch of soft clouds, their gazes fixed on the stallion sprawled out below. Soarin lay on his back, eyes half-lidded, expression vacant yet tinged with irritation, as if they had already disrupted some deeply cherished solitude. His usual carefree aura had been twisted by Discord’s influence into something callous and detached.

Rainbow flared her wings. “I’ll handle this. I’ll be able to catch and tie him up before he knows what’s happening.”

Thunderlane shook his head. “No. Let me talk to him first.”

Rainbow raised an eyebrow but backed off. Thunderlane took a deep breath, then descended, landing softly on the cloud beside Soarin. “Soarin,” he started, his voice measured. “You need to come back to us. We need you.”

Soarin barely turned his head. “Yeah? Well, I don’t need any of you.” His voice was devoid of warmth. “I look after myself now.”

“That’s not you talking,” Thunderlane pressed. “You’ve never been the type to abandon your friends.”

Soarin smirked. “Maybe you never really knew me.”

Thunderlane’s jaw clenched. His wings flexed, but he forced himself to stay calm. “I know you better than you think. We’ve been friends since primary school. We grew up together. You’ve had my back more times than I can count, and I’ve had yours.”

Soarin simply turned away, disinterested.

Thunderlane’s patience cracked. He lunged forward, attempting to grab Soarin, but the light blue pegasus smirked and dodged with ease.

Thunderlane flapped hard to keep up, but his muscles screamed in protest from all the flying he had already done that day. Gritting his teeth, he pushed himself harder, but Soarin stayed maddeningly out of reach. His breaths came out ragged, and finally, he grunted in frustration and dropped back onto the cloud. He looked at Rainbow Dash, holding out the rope. "Fine. You do it."

Rainbow’s cocky grin returned as she snatched the rope. "Watch and learn."

Without hesitation, she shot forward, wings slicing through the air with precise, practiced movements. In mere moments, she outmaneuvered Soarin, expertly wrapping the rope around him before he even realized what was happening. He struggled, but the bindings held firm.

Comet landed next to them, his horn glowing. He tried forcing memories into Soarin’s mind, but the magic merely fizzled against him. “It’s not working,” he admitted. “Discord’s hold is too strong.”

Rainbow huffed, crossing her hooves. “Then what’s it gonna take?”

Comet exhaled. “If I can’t force memories in, we need a strong, positive emotional trigger. Something powerful enough to snap him out of it.”

Rainbow smirked. “Leave it to me.”

She strode up to Soarin, her magenta eyes locking onto his. “Do you remember what you asked me that day when we went to get ice cream with Scootaloo?”

Soarin scoffed. “I don’t remember and I don’t care.”

Rainbow ignored the remark. “You asked me if I’d ever date a non-Wonderbolt. If I’d feel embarrassed.”

Soarin’s brow furrowed slightly, but he remained silent.

Rainbow took a deep breath, then, without hesitation, leaned forward and kissed him much to Comet’s and Thunderlane’s surprise.

Soarin’s mind reeled. Memories slammed into him like a tidal wave.

He was a colt again, bounding around the living room, declaring he would be a baker, then a royal guard, then an artist. Each time, his mother, Tippy Tappy, smiled and said, “Whatever makes you happy, sweetheart.”

Years passed in an instant. He was in primary school, meeting Thunderlane for the first time. The dark gray pegasus had an air of maturity that drew Soarin in immediately. They bonded over comics, video games and pranks. They stuck together through everything—bad tests, first crushes, fights in the schoolyard. When they got their first weather patrol jobs, they celebrated together.

Memories continued flooding in.

Soarin stood beside Thunderlane on his first day of weather patrol, nervous but excited. Thunderlane patted his back. “Stick with me, and you’ll do fine.”

Years later, Soarin found himself under Thunderlane’s command, but their friendship never wavered. Thunderlane was the only one who truly understood him, always knowing what to say to push him forward.

And then came Rainbow Dash. She was always there—this bright, relentless force of nature. He had admired her since they were foals, but by high school, admiration turned to something more. He never said anything, never acted on it. Then, she got the letter. She had been accepted into the Wonderbolts. Thunderlane congratulated her first, throwing a goodbye party in his office. Soarin smiled and cheered with the others, but deep inside, he hated himself for never telling her how he felt.

Now, here she was, kissing him.

The warmth spread further, melting the cold grip Discord had placed on his heart. Colors returned to his coat, his mane regaining its sky-blue vibrancy. When Rainbow pulled back, she smirked. "I hope that answers your question."

Soarin blinked. Then he laughed—a genuine, relieved, almost giddy laugh.

Thunderlane chuckled, shaking his head. "Took you long enough."

Comet smiled knowingly. "Welcome back, Soarin."

Soarin exhaled deeply before turning to them with a bow of his head. “I’m sorry. For everything. I let Discord mess with my head, and I abandoned all of you. Some element of loyalty I am.”

Comet nodded. “Yeah, but we’re not done yet. All the elements are back. It’s high time to bring a certain chaos spirit to his knees, wouldn’t you say?”

Soarin flexed his wings, a determined grin spreading across his face. “Let’s do it.”

The six stallions walked side by side through the twisted landscape of what was once Equestria. The sky swirled with unnatural colors, the ground shifted unpredictably beneath their hooves, and distorted laughter echoed in the distance. Floating islands of land drifted above them, some upside down, others spinning lazily like teacups. Rivers of chocolate milk snaked through the warped reality, their surfaces rippling against gravity. Everything about this world was wrong, but the six walked forward with determination, their Elements gleaming around their necks—or, in Comet Tail’s case, atop his head in the form of a crown.

The road leading to Discord’s throne was lined with twisted caricatures of familiar places. Buildings hovered at odd angles, some turned inside out, while others pulsed like living creatures. The remnants of Ponyville, Canterlot, and Cloudsdale blended together in a chaotic mishmash of nonsense. The closer they got to their destination, the more oppressive the atmosphere became. Discord's magic weighed on them, an unseen force that sought to bend them like it had everything else.

At the end of the path, Discord lounged lazily on his throne, a towering, mismatched seat of jagged stone floating above the ground. He twirled a cup of tea in his eagle claw, while his lion paw idly spun an umbrella that rained upwards instead of down. His eyes flickered with amusement as he spotted them.

“Well, well, well,” Discord drawled, setting his tea down onto the air, where it hovered obediently. “If it isn’t my favorite group of rebels. Have you all finally come to grovel at my feet? Oh, do tell me you’ve reconsidered! You six would make wonderful agents of chaos.”

Comet Tail stepped forward, his golden crown glinting under the chaotic sky. “Playtime’s over, Discord.”

Discord smirked, resting his chin on his claw. “Oh my, such a dramatic declaration. But forgive me if I don’t quake in my throne.” He straightened, his grin widening. “I hope you don’t think your little trinkets make you invincible. You do remember what happened last time?”

Braeburn stomped a hoof. “We ain’t scared of you anymore!”

Discord smirked. "Aren’t you, though?" With a snap of his fingers, Braeburn was suddenly yanked from the ground, floating helplessly toward Discord’s throne. The chaos spirit’s grin widened as he held Braeburn in his magic. "You can’t fool me, dear Braeburn. After all, I taught you how to lie, didn’t I?"

Braeburn struggled against the invisible force, his hooves flailing as he glared at the draconequus. "That ain't true!"

Discord clicked his tongue, his yellow eyes glowing with mischief. "Oh, but it is. You lied to yourself, to your friends, to your family. You pretended you didn’t care when I took everything away. You convinced yourself you could handle it alone. And now you’re just trying to fool yourself again."

A flicker of doubt passed over Braeburn’s face, and Discord’s grin widened. He saw it spread to the others, creeping into their minds like a venomous whisper. What if he’s right? What if we’re not strong enough?

Comet’s voice rang out, sharp and clear. “He’s trying to break us again! Don’t listen to him! We are stronger than this.” His horn glowed, and his Element surged with power. A beam of golden magic shot toward Braeburn, surrounding him in a protective aura. Discord grunted as he felt resistance, his mismatched hands tightening their grip.

“Oh, how precious,” Discord sneered, though strain crept into his tone. “You think you can just yank him away from me?”

The other Elements flared to life. A brilliant spectrum of light erupted from their necklaces, pouring into Comet’s spell. Discord’s claws trembled, his smugness faltering as Braeburn was pulled from his grasp. The moment Braeburn touched the ground, the stallions regrouped, their stance stronger than before.

Discord blinked. His fingers twitched. “What?”

Comet looked to the others. “Are you ready?”

One by one, they nodded, their confidence rekindled.

“Let’s end this.”

The Elements pulsed with radiant energy, weaving together into a spiraling force field of harmony. It spread outward, golden light dispelling the chaotic fog, setting the sky right, restoring the ground beneath their hooves.

Discord growled. He raised his claws, pouring his magic into a counterattack, but the force field repelled it instantly. His eyes darted to his hands, then to the growing sphere of purification. He tried again, snapping his fingers, summoning waves of distorted magic—yet they fizzled out the moment they touched the expanding field. Panic flickered in his crimson eyes.

“No,” he murmured, disbelief creeping into his voice. “No, no, no, this is impossible.” He clenched his teeth, pouring more power into a final attempt. “I am Discord! Chaos incarnate! You six insignificant stallions—how dare you compare to the alicorns who imprisoned me?!”

The field surged. Discord stumbled back, clawing at the ground as the reality he had twisted unraveled before him. He bared his teeth, desperation twisting his face. “You can’t do this to me!” he roared. “It’s not fair!”

But fairness had nothing to do with it.

The final surge of magic struck him like a tidal wave. His body seized, a flash of stone creeping up his legs, across his torso, freezing his outstretched hands. The last thing to solidify was his face—his expression caught between outrage and terror.

And then, silence.

The stone statue of Discord collapsed onto the throne. The eerie red glow of his world faded, replaced by the soft hues of a bright and peaceful Equestria. The ground settled. The sky turned blue. The Elements dimmed as their work was done.

Comet exhaled, then smirked at the motionless draconequus. “Stay down.”

A beat of stillness—then an eruption of cheers. The Element Bearers whooped, stomped their hooves, and shouted in triumph. They had won. Equestria was saved.

The battle was over.

The grand halls of Canterlot Castle were bathed in golden light, shimmering from elegant chandeliers as the finest musicians played a lively yet dignified tune. The celebration was in full swing—ponies from across Equestria had gathered to honor the Element Bearers and their triumph over Discord.

Princess Celestia stood at the top of the grand staircase, her regal presence commanding the attention of everypony in the hall. The music softened, and the murmuring of the crowd died down as she stepped forward to address them all.

“My little ponies,” she began, her voice carrying warmth and pride, “tonight, we celebrate the bravery and resilience of six stallions who stood against the spirit of chaos himself. Against all odds, they reclaimed their true selves and stood united, proving that harmony will always prevail.”

A wave of cheers erupted, stomping hooves filling the hall with thunderous applause. The Element Bearers stood at the base of the staircase, basking in the well-deserved praise. Comet Tail stood in the center, his golden crown gleaming in the candlelight. Thunderlane and Soarin shared a grin, the latter standing particularly close to Rainbow Dash, who nudged him playfully. Cheese Sandwich, ever the life of the party, couldn’t resist throwing a burst of confetti into the air, making Pinkie Pie giggle beside him. Doctor Whooves adjusted his bowtie, smiling knowingly at Ditzy Doo, who beamed back at him. Braeburn, ever humble, simply tipped his hat, offering a modest nod to the princess.

“But let us not forget,” Celestia continued, her gaze sweeping the crowd, “that these six were not alone in their fight. Their journey would not have been possible without the guidance and perseverance of two others.”

All eyes turned to Twilight Sparkle and Spike, who stood among the Element Bearers. Twilight leaned slightly toward Comet, her violet eyes shining with pride. Spike, standing beside her, puffed his chest out, his green spines standing a little taller.

“Twilight Sparkle,” Celestia said fondly, “your tireless dedication, wisdom, and faith in your friends helped guide them on their path. And Spike, your unwavering loyalty and courage have made you just as essential to this victory as any Element of Harmony.”

In the audience, Night Light and Twilight Velvet stood among the crowd, their cheers unmistakable as they called out for their daughter and her coltfriend. Night Light’s expression was one of deep pride, but as he shifted his gaze toward Comet Tail, something softened in his eyes. Beside him, Shining Armor watched quietly. Comet met his gaze, half-expecting the usual stern, appraising look that Twilight’s older brother often wore in his presence. But this time… it was different.

Respect.

It wasn’t spoken aloud, but the silent nod Shining gave him spoke volumes. Surprised yet honored, Comet returned the gesture, an unspoken understanding passing between them. Perhaps, for the first time, Shining Armor truly saw him not as an outsider vying for his sister’s affections, but as a stallion worthy of standing by her side.

As the applause faded, the crowd dispersed into smaller conversations, laughter, and celebrations. Rainbow Dash had wasted no time finding Soarin, who was now caught in a rare moment of tenderness as she nuzzled him in plain view. If anypony had doubts about their relationship before, they certainly wouldn’t now.

Standing at the edge of the platform, Comet let his gaze drift across the grand hall, watching his friends bask in the well-earned celebration. For the first time in a long while, he allowed himself to wonder: what now? Their journey had been treacherous, their trials harrowing. But the world kept moving forward. What would the future hold for them?

He was pulled from his thoughts as Twilight Velvet and Night Light approached. Twilight Velvet’s eyes shone with pride as she placed a hoof on her daughter’s shoulder. “Twilight, we could not be prouder of you.” She then turned her gaze to Spike and Comet. “Of all of you.”

Night Light nodded, his voice carrying the weight of sentimentality. “Bright Shine would be smiling from above today, Comet. You went above and beyond.”

The words struck deep, and Comet found himself swallowing the lump in his throat. He had spent so long forging his own path, trying to live up to expectations both spoken and unspoken. To hear this now, to know that his father’s oldest friend believed in him, was something he hadn’t known he needed to hear.

Shining Armor stepped up beside his parents, his expression unreadable. “You’re proving yourself, Comet.” He paused, then added, “So far.”

Twilight rolled her eyes, groaning. "Shining, seriously? Knock it off with the overprotective older brother schtick."

Comet chuckled, shaking his head. "No, it’s fine. Honestly, I’d be worried if he wasn’t at least a little skeptical. But for what it’s worth, your family’s words mean more to me than those of any other ponies."

Twilight Velvet beamed at that. "Well, I for one couldn’t imagine a better future son-in-law."

Comet coughed, rubbing the back of his head. "Uh, maybe let’s not get too carried away, shall we?"

Velvet and Night Light laughed heartily at their flustered expressions, and even Shining Armor let out a small chuckle. Twilight groaned, covering her face, while Comet simply sighed in good-natured resignation.

The night carried on, filled with music, laughter, and the warmth of friendship. No pony knew exactly what the future would bring, but one thing was certain—no matter what lay ahead, they would face it together.

Luna Eclipsed

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Family appreciation day

The sun had already begun to dip below the horizon when Rumble finally left the schoolhouse, his wings drooping slightly as he made his way home.

It had been a long day. Math drills, history essays, a pop quiz on Equestrian geography—all the boring stuff that never seemed to end. The only thing that kept him going was the thought of the Young Flyers Competition try-outs happening later today.

But as he reached his house, a part of him already knew how the next few minutes were going to go. Thunderlane would have something to say. He always did.

Sure enough, the moment Rumble stepped inside, the smell of vegetable stew filled the air, and his brother’s voice came from the kitchen.

"You’re home late. Go put your saddlebags away and set the table."

Rumble sighed, resisting the urge to roll his eyes. "Yeah, yeah."

Dropping his things in his room, he dragged himself back into the kitchen, setting the plates down with just enough force to make a clinking sound—just enough to let Thunderlane know he wasn’t in the mood.

Thunderlane, as always, didn’t react. He just ladled out the stew and took a seat.

For a while, they ate in silence. The stew was good—Thunderlane was a decent cook, he’d give him that—but Rumble barely tasted it. He just wanted to finish, get his homework out of the way, and head straight for the try-outs.

Then, of course, Thunderlane had to say something.

"Rumble, slow down. You’re gonna choke."

Rumble froze mid-bite. His jaw clenched.

That tone. That “I-know-better-than-you” tone.

He’d heard it his whole life.

"Wash your teeth again, Rumble."
"Eat all your vegetables."
"What do you have to do for school tomorrow?"

Thunderlane was always watching, correcting, reminding, controlling.

Rumble took a slow breath through his nose, forcing himself to chew slower, if only to avoid another comment.

Then, as casually as possible, he said, "After I finish my homework, I’m heading to the Young Flyers Competition try-outs."

Thunderlane didn’t even look up. "You sure about that? You still haven’t done the chores from yesterday."

Rumble blinked, his wings twitching. "What?"

"You were supposed to do them yesterday, and you didn’t," Thunderlane said simply. "So you have to do them today."

Rumble’s feathers bristled. "Come on, Thunderlane, today’s the last day for try-outs!"

Thunderlane finally looked up, raising an eyebrow. "Then maybe you should’ve done your chores earlier."

That was it. That was the last straw.

The frustration that had been boiling inside Rumble all day—no, all his life—finally burst.

"Why do you always have to control everything?!" he snapped, slamming his hooves on the table. "You’re always telling me what to do—what to eat, how to fly, when to sleep! You never let me do anything on my own!"

Thunderlane, caught off guard, frowned. "Rumble, I—"

But Rumble wasn’t done. The words were just spilling out now, sharp and cutting like knives.

"You act like you’re so much smarter than me, but guess what? You’re not! You’re just some nopony bossing around a bunch of pegasi in Ponyville! That’s all you’ll ever be!"

Thunderlane’s expression darkened.

But Rumble was too angry to stop.

"While I’m actually trying to do something with my life, you’re stuck here, playing babysitter and running a stupid weather team. What an achievement!" He laughed mockingly. "Dad would probably be ashamed if he saw what a joke you’ve turned into."

Silence.

Thunderlane just stared at him. His shoulders went tense, his wings half-spread as if preparing for a fight—but the worst part wasn’t the anger.

It was the hurt.

For the first time in a long while, Rumble actually saw it.

But instead of stopping, instead of apologizing, he doubled down.

Thunderlane’s voice, when he finally spoke, was dangerously quiet.

"Don't. Ever. Bring Dad or Mom into this."

Rumble swallowed, suddenly unsure.

But Thunderlane wasn’t finished.

"You don’t get to talk about what they’d think, Rumble. You don’t know anything about what they went through. You don’t know anything about what I’ve gone through, trying to raise you and keep us together while you sit here acting like a spoiled brat."

Rumble’s breath hitched. His ears flattened. "I’m not a brat."

"Really? Because right now, you sure sound like one."

That hit harder than expected.

Rumble’s heart pounded, a painful, heavy pressure in his chest.

And then, before he could stop himself, before he could even think, he spat out the words that would change everything.

"I wish you weren’t my brother."

Thunderlane stopped breathing.

The room froze.

Rumble barely had time to register what he’d just said before the damage was already done.

Thunderlane’s wings drooped slightly, his expression going from frustration to something worse.

Pain.

For a long moment, he just stood there, completely silent.

And that silence was so much worse than yelling.

Rumble felt something twist in his stomach. He saw the look in his brother’s eyes—the same look he’d had when their parents died, that moment when everything changed forever.

A sharp, stabbing guilt started creeping in.

But before it could fully take hold, before he could let himself feel it, he did the only thing his pride would let him do.

He turned and stormed out the door.

Leaving Thunderlane behind. Alone.

The night air was cold and heavy as Rumble walked home, his hooves dragging against the dirt road.

He had given it his all—pushed himself past exhaustion, put everything he had into those try-outs. And yet…

It wasn’t enough.

The judges had called out the names of those who qualified. His name wasn’t among them.

The rejection had been a punch to the gut, but what made it worse was the knowledge that Thunderlane had been right. He had let his chores pile up, let everything else slip away, all for a competition that didn’t even want him.

And now, the last thing he wanted to do was face his brother.

As he approached their house, he hesitated for a moment at the door. The lights inside were still on. Thunderlane was awake.

Rumble’s heartbeat quickened. If Thunderlane saw him like this—**if he asked what happened—**he didn’t know if he could handle it.

He pushed the door open quietly, slipping inside.

The house was eerily silent. The usual warmth of home felt… different.

From the corner of his eye, he saw Thunderlane sitting on the couch, staring at the floor. His face was unreadable, expression hollow.

For a split second, Rumble thought his brother was going to say something. But he didn't. He just sat there. Watching.

Rumble turned away before their eyes could meet.

He hurried down the hall, his chest tight. He wasn’t sure if he was running from a conversation or the guilt pressing down on him.

As soon as he reached his room, he shut the door without a word.

Rumble blinked awake as the morning light streamed through his window. He sat up, stretching out his stiff wings.

For a brief moment, he expected to hear the familiar sounds of Thunderlane moving around in the kitchen—the clatter of plates, the smell of eggs, maybe even an off-key hum of some dumb song stuck in his head.

But the house was silent.

Confused, he pulled himself out of bed and trudged to the kitchen. No Thunderlane. No breakfast waiting for him.

Instead, there was a single note on the table.

Rumble’s brow furrowed as he picked it up.

Rumble,
There’s food in the fridge. Make sure you eat.
I’ll be working all day.

It wasn’t signed.

It didn’t need to be.

Rumble stared at it, feeling something… off.

Thunderlane had never missed breakfast before. No matter how busy, how tired, how much of a pain Rumble had been, Thunderlane was always there in the morning.

The fact that he wasn’t today…

It stung.

Rumble scowled and crumpled the note in his hooves.

With a flick of his wing, he tossed it into the trash bin, watching it disappear under some old wrappers and yesterday’s newspaper.

Fine. Whatever.

If Thunderlane wanted to act like this, then Rumble wasn’t going to care.

He grabbed a quick breakfast, barely tasting it, then threw on his saddlebags. As he stepped outside, the cool air hit him, but he barely noticed.

As he made his way to school, he kept telling himself that he was right.

Thunderlane had it coming. He was overbearing, controlling, annoying.

But still…

Something gnawed at him, deep in his chest.

A feeling he didn’t want to name.

A feeling that made him avoid thinking about the look in Thunderlane’s eyes last night.

So instead, he shoved his hooves into his pockets and walked faster.

Pretending he didn’t feel a thing.

Rumble sat at his desk, staring blankly at the chalkboard as Cheerilee’s voice faded in and out like distant wind.

He tried to focus. Tried to take notes. Tried to care.

But the words blurred together, his mind replaying the argument with Thunderlane over and over again.

"I wish you weren’t my brother."

He clenched his jaw, his pencil pressing harder against the paper until the tip snapped.

Several heads turned at the faint crack, but Rumble didn’t acknowledge them. Instead, he sighed and slumped back in his seat, barely listening as Cheerilee moved on with the lesson.

As the second break rolled around, Rumble lingered inside the classroom, absentmindedly tapping his hoof against his desk. Most of the other students had already rushed outside, eager to enjoy the fresh air, but he felt no urge to leave.

His friends were probably still talking about that arcade game. Something he just couldn’t bring himself to care about right now.

He sighed and slumped forward, resting his chin on his hooves.

Across the room, Cheerilee was flipping through a stack of assignments at her desk, occasionally jotting down a note with a red quill. She hummed softly as she worked, but when she glanced up and noticed Rumble sitting alone, her expression shifted.

“Rumble?” she asked gently. “Is something on your mind?”

He hesitated.

For a split second, he considered just brushing her off. Saying he was fine. Saying he was just tired.

But when he looked up and saw the patient warmth in her eyes, the words stuck in his throat.

"...I had an argument with Thunderlane," he admitted finally, keeping his eyes on the desk.

Cheerilee nodded, closing her grade book. “I see.”

She didn’t ask for details. Didn’t push.

Instead, she leaned forward slightly, resting her hooves together. "Would you like to talk about it?"

Rumble scuffed a hoof against the wooden floor, his tail flicking. "...Not really."

“That’s okay.” She gave him a soft smile. “But I hope you know that no matter what happened, Thunderlane still loves you. He always has.”

Rumble swallowed hard.

He wanted to believe that.

But the look on Thunderlane’s face last night—the way his voice had cracked, the hurt in his eyes when Rumble had shouted I wish you weren’t my brother—it wouldn’t leave his head.

"I don’t know," Rumble muttered. "I said some stuff. Bad stuff. I don’t think he’ll just… forget it."

Cheerilee watched him for a moment, then exhaled softly.

“You know,” she said, “when Thunderlane was in this very classroom, you were one of the things he talked about the most.”

Rumble’s ears perked up.

"...Huh?"

A small chuckle escaped her. "It’s true. Even when he was just a colt, he always spoke about you like you were the most important thing in his world. Whenever we had show-and-tell, he’d bring in something that had to do with you—one time, he even brought a drawing you made when you were barely old enough to hold a crayon."

Rumble blinked. "...What?"

Cheerilee smiled at the memory. "It was a complete mess, really. Just a bunch of scribbles. But he was so proud of it. He kept saying it was ‘the first thing my little brother ever made!’ and insisted on keeping it in his desk for months."

Rumble shifted, feeling a weird lump in his throat. "...I don’t remember that."

“You wouldn’t,” she said gently. “You were really little. But he never stopped talking about you. Whenever we had essays about our goals for the future, most foals talked about becoming Wonderbolts, inventors, or even royalty."

She paused, her gaze turning more thoughtful.

"But Thunderlane? He said his biggest goal in life was to make sure you’d be okay."

Rumble’s stomach twisted.

"He was so mature for his age," Cheerilee continued, tapping a hoof against her desk. "But also so… tired. Even back then, I could tell he felt like he had to grow up faster than everypony else. He never said it outright, but I knew he was struggling."

She hesitated before adding, “Losing your parents… it was hard on him, Rumble. And I think, in some ways, he never really had time to stop and grieve.”

Rumble froze.

He had always known that their parents’ death changed their lives. But he had been five. Barely old enough to understand what was happening.

By the time he had fully grasped the weight of it, Thunderlane had already stepped into the role of caretaker. Always there. Always making sure Rumble was fed, had clean clothes, did his schoolwork.

But had he ever actually thought about how Thunderlane must have felt?

How hard it must have been?

The memory of their argument flashed through his mind.

"You never amounted to anything."
"Dad would probably be ashamed of you."

He swallowed hard, suddenly feeling sick.

Seeing the shift in his expression, Cheerilee softened her tone.

"You don’t have to talk to him right away," she said gently. "But I hope you take some time to think about what he’s done for you. And when you’re ready… maybe let him know how much you appreciate him."

Rumble didn’t respond right away.

Instead, he stared down at his hooves, turning over her words again and again in his head.

"...Yeah," he muttered finally. "Maybe."

Cheerilee smiled. “Good.”

As he stood up to leave, she added, “And Rumble?"

He turned.

"No matter how bad the argument was… I know he still loves you."

Rumble swallowed and nodded.

But as he walked out of the classroom, his chest felt heavier than ever.

Rumble sat outside on the schoolyard bench, staring blankly at the dirt path beneath his hooves. Button Mash and Featherweight were sitting on either side of him, chatting excitedly about something—something he wasn’t really paying attention to.

His mind was elsewhere.

Still stuck on Cheerilee’s words.

Still stuck on the memory of Thunderlane’s hurt expression.

"I know he still loves you."

Did he, though?

Did he still love him after what he said?

“Rumble?”

He blinked, snapping out of his thoughts. Button Mash was waving a hoof in front of his face.

“You okay, dude? You’ve been kinda zoned out.”

“I—yeah. Sorry,” Rumble muttered, rubbing his forehead. “What were you saying?”

Featherweight tilted his head. “We were talking about the new arcade game at Button’s place. Mega Minotaur Mayhem?”

Rumble frowned. "...Never heard of it."

Button Mash’s jaw dropped. “Dude! It’s only the biggest release of the month! The whole gaming club’s been freaking out about it!”

Featherweight nodded. “I read a review about it in Power Ponies Monthly. They said the gameplay is crazy good, and there’s, like, fifty different levels to explore.”

Button practically bounced in place. “Yeah, and the minotaur king at the end? Apparently, he’s, like, impossible to beat unless you get the golden battle axe!”

“That… sounds cool,” Rumble said half-heartedly.

Button Mash narrowed his eyes. “That was the least excited ‘cool’ I’ve ever heard in my life.”

Rumble sighed. “Sorry. I just… I dunno. I guess I’m not really in the mood.”

Featherweight gave him a concerned look. “Everything okay?”

Rumble shrugged. “Just tired.”

Button Mash frowned. “Are you sure? ‘Cause you haven’t been yourself all morning.”

Rumble tensed.

For a moment, he considered telling them.

He and Thunderlane had always had little arguments here and there—normal sibling stuff. But this? This had been different.

He had said things he never should have said.

And now… he didn’t know how to take them back.

But how was he supposed to explain that?

How was he supposed to tell his friends that he had insulted his own brother and then stormed out of the house like a brat?

They wouldn’t understand.

They still had both of their parents. Their families were normal.

So instead, he forced a smirk and said, “Nah, I’m fine. Just didn’t sleep great.”

Featherweight didn’t look convinced, but he didn’t push.

Button, on the other hoof, grinned. “Well, if you need a pick-me-up, you have to come over after school. I’m hosting a Mega Minotaur Mayhem tournament at my place. Winner gets a free hayburger!”

Rumble hesitated.

Normally, that would’ve sounded awesome.

But right now?

The thought of playing games and pretending everything was fine just felt wrong.

“…Maybe another time,” he muttered.

Button Mash blinked. “Wait… You’re turning down free food? Who are you, and what have you done with the real Rumble?”

Rumble rolled his eyes. “Ha ha.”

Featherweight elbowed him lightly. “You sure everything’s okay?”

Rumble forced a smirk. “Yeah, don’t worry about it.”

They didn’t look entirely convinced.

But before they could press him any further, the school bell rang, signaling the end of recess.

Rumble exhaled, relieved.

As they walked back to class, he couldn’t shake the weird, nagging feeling in his chest.

Like even though he was surrounded by his friends… he still felt completely alone.

The schoolyard was slowly emptying as foals left for home, either trotting off alone or meeting up with waiting parents. Rumble stood off to the side, watching without really seeing, his mind still trapped in the weight of his earlier thoughts.

"Hey, Rumble!"

He blinked and looked up just in time to see Scootaloo trotting toward him, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom close behind. The sight of them made some of the heaviness in his chest lift.

"Hey," he said, forcing a small smile.

He had always gotten along with the three of them, but he’d always had a soft spot for Scootaloo. Even before she and her friends had formed the Cutie Mark Crusaders, he and Scootaloo had clicked in a way he didn’t quite have with other fillies. She wasn’t all frilly or obsessed with dresses like some of the others—she liked flying, racing, and sports just as much as he did. And while some colts used to tease him for hanging out with her, he never cared. His real friends, like Button and Featherweight, never had a problem with it, and that was all that mattered.

Scootaloo gave him a curious look. “What’s up? You look kinda down.”

Rumble quickly shook his head. “It’s nothing. Just tired.”

Sweetie Belle tilted her head. “You sure? You seemed fine this morning.”

“I said it’s nothing,” Rumble repeated, a little more sharply than he meant to. He sighed. “Anyway… what are you guys up to?”

Sweetie Belle perked up. “I have to help Rarity clean the boutique. She said it’s ‘disastrously cluttered,’ but it honestly doesn’t look that bad.”

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes. “That’s Rarity for ya. Ah’m helpin’ Applejack at the farm.”

Rumble hesitated. “Actually… have you seen Thunderlane at Sweet Apple Acres today?”

Apple Bloom blinked. “Thunderlane?”

“Yeah. I mean, he’s been spending a lot of time there lately.”

Apple Bloom frowned, thinking. “Nah, Ah didn’t see nopony outside mah family when Ah was leavin’ for school.”

Sweetie Belle suddenly smirked. “Why? Getting curious about him and Applejack? Maybe you’re trying to keep an eye on your future sister-in-law?”

Apple Bloom’s face immediately turned red. “What in the hay are ya talkin’ about?! That’s the dumbest—”

“Ohhh, you’re not denying it, though,” Sweetie Belle sing-songed.

Apple Bloom stomped her hoof. “Because it’s ridiculous!"

“It’s totally not ridiculous,” Sweetie Belle teased. “He’s always around, Applejack likes him—”

Apple Bloom huffed. “This is the last time Ah tell ya anything!”

Rumble smirked a little as the two bickered. It was nice—this kind of normal, easygoing talk.

Scootaloo rolled her eyes. “Anyway, I’m hanging out with Soarin and Rainbow Dash today. It’s friday, so you know… tradition.”

Rumble nodded absentmindedly. “That’s cool.”

Scootaloo furrowed her brow. “Alright, what’s really up with you?”

“What?”

“You’ve been acting weird this whole time,” Scootaloo said, crossing her hooves. “So spill it.”

Rumble hesitated. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to talk about it, but something in Scootaloo’s sharp gaze made him sigh. “I got into a serious argument with Thunderlane last night,” he muttered.

Scootaloo’s ears flicked. “Like… how serious are we talking?”

Rumble shook his head. “Doesn’t matter.”

She studied him for a second before nodding. “Well, if you want, I can ask Rainbow and Soarin when they get here. Maybe they know what’s up.”

Rumble quickly shook his head. “Nah, it’s fine. I don’t wanna bother them with it.”

Scootaloo didn’t look convinced, but before she could say anything else, a familiar raspy voice rang out.

“Yo, squirt!”

Rumble turned to see Rainbow Dash and Soarin descending from the sky, their wings flaring as they landed near them.

“Hey, Scoots!” Rainbow ruffled Scootaloo’s mane before glancing over at the rest of them. “What’s up, guys?”

Scootaloo wasted no time. “Rumble had a fight with Thunderlane.”

Rumble groaned. “Scootaloo—”

Soarin looked at Rumble curiously. “You okay, dude?”

Rumble shrugged. “I guess.”

Soarin thought for a moment. “As long as Thunderlane’s cool with it, I don’t see why not.”

Rumble let out a dry laugh. “Thunderlane’s working the whole day, so I can do whatever I want.”

There was something about the way he said it—like it wasn’t a good thing.

Rainbow Dash, who had been watching him closely, suddenly grinned. “Alright then, kiddo. You’re coming with us. And you know what? I’m making it my treat. We’re going to Sugarcube Corner.”

Rumble hesitated. “I don’t kno—”

“Not up for debate,” Rainbow cut him off. “You need a pick-me-up, and Pinkie Pie’s got the best desserts in town.”

Rumble still wasn’t convinced.

But then he thought about Soarin.

About Rainbow Dash.

About how Rainbow used to be Thunderlane’s subordinate, back when she was just a weather pony.

About how Soarin still was.

About how Soarin had been Thunderlane’s friend since fifth grade.

And suddenly, that hollow feeling inside of him cracked just a little.

Maybe… maybe he did want to go.

Maybe he just needed something—anything—that reminded him of his brother.

“…Alright,” he mumbled.

Scootaloo pumped a hoof in the air. “Yes! Best Friday ever!”

Rainbow smirked. “That’s the spirit! Let’s go!”

Thunderlane didn’t work on the farm. He didn’t need to. But over the past few months, he had developed a habit of dropping by to help Applejack with her chores. He’d tell himself it was just to get some extra exercise, or to pay her back for all the times she helped him with Rumble.

But lately… he wasn’t so sure that was the reason anymore.

Now, as he bucked another tree, watching the apples rain down into the baskets, he exhaled through his nose. The physical labor was good. It kept him moving, gave him something to focus on besides the words he’d said to his brother that morning.

"Spoiled brat."

He clenched his jaw. He hadn’t meant it. Not really.

Applejack, who had been working a few trees away, noticed. She always appreciated an extra set of hooves helping with apple-bucking, but she could tell something was bothering him. She had known Thunderlane long enough to recognize when he was carrying more weight than just apple baskets.

She trotted over, wiping the sweat off her brow. “You’re kickin’ harder than usual, sugarcube. Tryin’ to knock the tree down instead of just gettin’ the apples?”

Thunderlane exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “Just… got a lot on my mind.”

Applejack studied him. He was tense, his wings slightly unfurled even though he wasn’t flying, his jaw tight. She gave him a light nudge. “C’mon now. We’re friends, and friends don’t let each other stew in their own thoughts. What’s eatin’ at ya?”

Thunderlane hesitated, his ears twitching. He wanted to brush it off, say it was nothing, but something in Applejack’s steady gaze made him sigh.

“It’s Rumble,” he admitted. “We got into a fight this morning. A bad one.”

Applejack frowned. “How bad?”

Thunderlane swallowed. “I… I lost it. Called him a spoiled brat.”

Applejack winced. “Oof.” She took off her hat and ran a hoof through her mane before setting it back in place. “That ain’t easy to hear from your big brother, I reckon.”

Thunderlane let out a bitter chuckle. “Yeah, well, I didn’t exactly plan on saying it. It just… came out.” He shook his head, staring at the ground. “I don’t know, AJ. I’m just trying to look out for him. He acts like I’m trying to ruin his life, but all I want is to keep him from making dumb mistakes. It’s like he thinks I’m just trying to control him for no reason.”

Applejack was quiet for a moment, her green eyes thoughtful. “Let me ask ya somethin’, Thunder. When you were his age, did you ever mess up?”

Thunderlane snorted. “Obviously.”

“And what happened when ya did?”

He hesitated, shifting on his hooves. “…I learned from it.”

Applejack nodded. “And did anypony hold your hoof through every little thing, makin’ sure you never so much as stumbled?”

“…No,” he admitted. “My parents were there when they could be, but they let me figure things out on my own. They didn’t stop me from making mistakes… just helped me up when I fell.”

Applejack smiled. “And yet, here ya are. Ain’t ruined, ain’t broken. You turned out alright.”

Thunderlane let out a long breath. “Yeah… but that was different.”

“How?”

He opened his mouth, then shut it.

Applejack continued, "Lemme tell ya somethin’—I know a thing or two ‘bout wantin’ to protect your family. I used to hover over Apple Bloom somethin’ fierce when she was younger. Thought I had to be on her tail every second, make sure she didn’t mess up, keep her from doin’ somethin’ she'd regret." She chuckled softly. "But ya know what? Turns out, that was more for me than it was for her."

Thunderlane tilted his head slightly. "What do you mean?"

Applejack leaned back against the tree, glancing up at the branches. "After Ma and Pa passed, I started thinkin’ I had to keep everypony safe. I felt like if I didn’t stay on top of things, somethin’ bad would happen again. I spent years treatin’ Apple Bloom like she was made of glass, but all that did was make her feel like I didn’t trust her. And if there’s one thing a pony don’t wanna hear from their family, it’s that they ain’t trusted."

Thunderlane frowned, turning her words over in his mind.

"I ain't sayin’ let him run wild," Applejack added. "But you gotta give him space to grow, Thunder. Let him make mistakes. Let him figure out who he is. If you keep holdin’ him too tight, one day he's gonna push back, and that push might send him further away than you want."

Thunderlane’s ears flattened.

Applejack nudged his shoulder. "You’re a good brother. Ain't no doubt about that. But part of bein’ a good brother is knowin’ when to let him breathe."

Thunderlane swallowed, the weight on his chest easing ever so slightly.

"...Yeah," he murmured. "I guess I never really thought about it like that."

Applejack smirked. "Well, that's what I'm here for. Knockin’ sense into ponies is kinda my specialty."

He chuckled softly. "Yeah. It really is."

Applejack grinned, satisfied. "Feelin’ any better?"

Thunderlane exhaled, stretching out his wings. "Yeah. I think so."

Applejack stood, brushing the dust off her hooves. "Good. Now, c’mon—we still got trees to buck."

Thunderlane got to his hooves, the tension in his body finally starting to fade.

They worked in silence for a while, side by side, the crisp autumn air carrying the scent of apples through the orchard.

And then, as Thunderlane glanced at Applejack out of the corner of his eye, something stirred in him.

The way the sunlight filtered through her golden mane. The way her freckles crinkled when she smiled. The way she always seemed to get him, even when he couldn’t get himself.

And then—just like that—his mind drifted back to her words that night.

You get me.

Maybe that was the moment this all started—the way his chest felt a little tighter whenever she smiled at him, the way her voice always calmed him, the way he kept looking forward to the days he got to spend with her.

And it wasn’t just today. It wasn’t just this moment.

This feeling had been creeping up on him for a long time.

The realization settled in his chest, warm and terrifying all at once.

He liked her. Really liked her.

Maybe he always had.

Applejack caught him staring and raised an eyebrow. “You alright there, partner?”

Thunderlane blinked, snapping out of his thoughts.

A small smile tugged at his lips.

“Yeah, I guess I am.”

Rumble tightened his grip on his scooter’s handlebars, the wheels skidding slightly as he leaned into a sharp turn. The wind whipped through his mane, and for a brief moment, he felt weightless, soaring through the air as he launched off the ramp. The world blurred as he twisted his body mid-air, executing a near-flawless trick before landing with a solid thud. The thrill of the stunt sent a rush of excitement through him—until reality came crashing back in.

His argument with Thunderlane replayed in his head like a broken record, souring his mood. He gritted his teeth, pushing himself harder, trying to drown out the memories with the adrenaline rush. But it was no use. No matter how many tricks he nailed, the look in Thunderlane’s eyes when he said, “I wish you weren’t my brother,” refused to fade.

Scootaloo zoomed past him, her laughter ringing through the air as she expertly maneuvered her way across the skate park. “C’mon, Rumble! Keep up!” she called out, glancing back at him with a teasing grin.

Normally, he’d have some sort of witty comeback, but his heart wasn’t in it. He forced a smirk and picked up the pace, his scooter flying across the pavement as he caught up to her. He always loved hanging out with Scootaloo—among all his friends, she was the only one who shared his love for extreme sports. Even Button Mash and Featherweight, his closest buddies, didn’t quite get the thrill the way she did. Lately, though, it wasn’t just their shared hobbies that made him enjoy her company so much. He found himself thinking about her more often, noticing little things about her that he hadn’t before. The way her mane bounced when she rode, how determined she looked when she landed a difficult trick, and how her laughter made his chest feel weirdly warm.

But even that warmth couldn’t push away the dark cloud looming over him. The guilt sat heavy in his stomach, making his movements sluggish. His tricks became sloppy, and soon, he found himself simply rolling along instead of trying anything daring.

Scootaloo skidded to a stop beside him, concern flickering in her eyes. “Okay, spill it,” she said, nudging him lightly. “I can tell you’re still thinking about your fight with Thunderlane.”

Rumble sighed, running a hoof through his mane. “Yeah… it’s just—ugh. It won’t get out of my head.”

Before Scootaloo could say anything else, Rainbow Dash and Soarin descended from the sky, landing a few feet away. Rainbow ruffled Scootaloo’s mane with a grin before glancing at Rumble. “Hey, squirt. You doin’ okay?”

Rumble hesitated. He wanted to say yes, to brush it off like it didn’t matter, but something about Rainbow’s concern made him pause. Maybe it was how she and Soarin had been so cool to him all day, how they’d made an effort to cheer him up. Or maybe it was because they knew Thunderlane so well—Rainbow had worked under him in the weather team before becoming a Wonderbolt, and Soarin had been his best friend since grade school.

He took a deep breath. “It was about the Young Flyers Competition tryouts,” he admitted. “And chores. He wanted me to finish them first, but that was the last day for tryouts. It just… turned into something bigger.”

He hesitated, but the words were already forming, bitter and sharp. “I told him he’s a nopony who never achieved anything in his life.”

Soarin’s eyes widened slightly, but he said nothing. Rumble swallowed hard and continued. “He called me a spoiled brat. And then I… I told him I wished he wasn’t my brother.”

Saying it out loud made his stomach twist. He rubbed his foreleg, suddenly feeling small under their gazes.

Rainbow let out a low whistle. “Yikes.”

“Yeah,” Rumble muttered. “I didn’t mean it, but… I don’t know. He looked—he looked hurt.” He frowned. “And then this morning, he wasn’t there for breakfast. He left this note saying he’d be working all day. But that’s not normal. He never misses breakfast, no matter what.”

Soarin’s ears perked up slightly, but he kept silent, filing away a mental note. Thunderlane wasn’t working all day today. He had finished his shift by 3 PM like he always did on Fridays. Yet, he had left that note for Rumble, saying he’d be gone the whole day. Why? Soarin didn’t bring it up. Thunderlane clearly had his reasons for keeping that to himself.

Rumble stared down at his hooves. “I didn’t mean it. But I was so mad, and I just… I wanted to hurt him back. I just feel like he’s controlling every aspect of my life. Like he won’t let me do things my way.”

Soarin exhaled through his nose. “That’s not it, kid.”

Rumble frowned. “How would you know?”

“Because I’ve known Thunderlane since the fifth grade.” Soarin sat down beside him. “And I know the real reason he’s ‘just a head of weather patrol in Ponyville.’ It’s you.”

Rumble blinked. “What?”

Rainbow nodded. “Before your parents died, Thunderlane was on track to be one of the best flyers out there. He won most of the Young Flyers’ Competitions. He could’ve been a Wonderbolt if he wanted. But he gave it up.”

Rumble felt his heartbeat slow. “Why?”

Soarin looked him in the eye. “Because of you, Rumble. He could’ve chased his dream, but he chose to stay and raise you instead.”

Rumble stared at them, his mind reeling. He always knew Thunderlane had taken care of him, but he never realized just how much he’d given up. The weight of it pressed down on him, and for the first time since the fight, he felt the full force of guilt settle in his chest.

All that sacrifice. All that effort. And what had he done? He’d called Thunderlane a failure. Told him he didn’t want him as a brother.

His throat tightened. “I…” He swallowed hard. “I didn’t know.”

Rainbow’s expression softened. “Look, Thunderlane’s not perfect. And yeah, sometimes he might go a little overboard with the whole ‘big brother’ thing. But that’s because he cares. More than you know.”

Rumble bit his lip, looking down. He had been so angry, so caught up in his own frustration, that he hadn’t seen it. Thunderlane wasn’t trying to control him—he was trying to protect him. Guide him. And Rumble had thrown it back in his face.

Scootaloo nudged him gently. “Hey, maybe you should talk to him. You know… before it gets worse.”

Rumble hesitated, but after a moment, he nodded. “Yeah. I think I should.”

For the first time all day, he knew exactly what he needed to do.

Rumble trudged home, his thoughts swirling with everything that had happened that day. The argument with Thunderlane still lingered in his mind, but the conversations he had with Cheerilee, Soarin, and Rainbow Dash had shifted his perspective. He had been so caught up in his frustration that he hadn’t realized how much Thunderlane had sacrificed for him.

Guilt gnawed at him. Thunderlane had put aside his dreams for Rumble’s sake, and what had Rumble done in return? Lashed out, called him a nopony, and said something he wasn’t sure he could ever take back. The pain in Thunderlane’s eyes when he told him he wished he wasn’t his brother flashed in his mind, and he winced.

As he walked through the quiet streets of Ponyville, the soft glow of lanterns flickering in windows, he considered ways to make it up to his brother. Maybe he’d wake up early and bring Thunderlane breakfast in bed. Or maybe he could take over some of the chores without being asked. Something—anything—to show that he was sorry, not just with words, but with actions.

His thoughts were interrupted as he reached their house. The lights were on inside. His brow furrowed. If Thunderlane was supposed to be working all day, then why—?

Pushing the door open, he stepped inside and immediately spotted Thunderlane sitting on the couch, staring off into space.

“Uh… hey,” Rumble said hesitantly, closing the door behind him. Thunderlane turned to face him, his expression unreadable.

“Hey,” Thunderlane replied. He rubbed the back of his neck. “You’re home late.”

“Yeah. Hung out with Scootaloo, Rainbow Dash, and Soarin.” Rumble paused, then narrowed his eyes. “I thought you were working all day.”

Thunderlane barely flinched, but there was a split second of hesitation before he said, “I, uh, got a letter from management saying I could head home early.”

Rumble raised an eyebrow. He wasn’t sure why, but something about that answer didn’t sit right with him. Still, he decided not to press it. Not now.

The air between them grew thick with unspoken words. Neither of them moved, both searching for something to say. Finally, at the exact same time, they both blurted out, “I’m sorry.”

They stared at each other for a moment before a small chuckle escaped Thunderlane. Rumble found himself smiling, the tension between them easing just a bit.

Rumble shifted on his hooves. “I, uh, talked to Cheerilee today. And Soarin. And Rainbow Dash.” He hesitated. “They told me about how much you used to talk about me when you were younger. And how you sacrificed your career in competitive flying.”

Thunderlane exhaled, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah… I guess I never really told you about that, huh?”

“No, you didn’t,” Rumble admitted. “I had no idea.”

Thunderlane leaned back against the couch. “It wasn’t something I felt the need to talk about. I made my choice. And I don’t regret it, Rumble.” He gave his little brother a reassuring look. “You were more important than anything else.”

Rumble felt his throat tighten. “I… I said some really awful things.”

Thunderlane nodded. “You did.”

Rumble winced. “Gee, thanks.”

“But,” Thunderlane continued, “I also realized something today. After thinking about it… I need to let you breathe. Let you make your own decisions. And, yeah, maybe that means letting you make some mistakes.” He sighed. “I never meant to make you feel like I was controlling your life. I just… I wanted to protect you. I wanted to make sure you had everything you needed.”

Rumble swallowed past the lump in his throat and stepped forward, wrapping his forelegs around Thunderlane in a tight hug. Thunderlane froze for a second before returning the embrace, warmth spreading through both of them.

“I’m really sorry,” Rumble murmured.

“Me too, kiddo,” Thunderlane said, squeezing him briefly before pulling back. “Tell you what—why don’t we go to the cinema tomorrow? My treat. As much popcorn and soda as you want.”

Rumble’s ears perked up. “Anything?”

Thunderlane smirked. “Well, within reason.”

Rumble’s face lit up with mischief. “What about—”

Thunderlane cut him off. “Not breaking the law for our brother-bonding time, Rumble.”

Rumble sighed dramatically. “You’re no fun.” But despite his words, he was smiling.

Thunderlane stood up and stretched. “I gotta head out for a bit, but I’ll be back soon.”

Rumble tilted his head. “Going to Sweet Apple Acres?”

Thunderlane froze. Rumble grinned, clearly amused. “Say hi to Applejack for me.”

Thunderlane groaned, rubbing his face as he headed for the door. “Yeah, yeah.”

Rumble watched him leave, his heart feeling lighter than it had all day. Things weren’t perfect, but they were getting better. And for now, that was enough.

The sun hung low over Sweet Apple Acres, bathing the orchard in warm hues of orange and pink. The air carried the scent of ripening apples mixed with the earthy aroma of fresh hay. Applejack stood by the pigpen, pouring the last of the slop into the trough. The pigs eagerly crowded around, their delighted grunts breaking the otherwise tranquil evening. Wiping her brow with the back of her hoof, she let out a satisfied sigh. Another day's work done.

Just as she was about to head toward the barn, a familiar gust of wind rustled through the trees, accompanied by the soft thud of hooves landing on the ground. Turning around, she spotted Thunderlane standing there, his wings still half-spread from flight. Something was different about him—his posture more relaxed, a certain lightness in his expression.

"Howdy, Thunderlane," she greeted, tilting her hat back. "Yer lookin' mighty chipper this evenin'. What brings ya here?"

He took a step closer, rubbing the back of his neck with a wing. "Hey, AJ. Thought I’d see if you needed any help with the chores."

Applejack raised an eyebrow, glancing over her shoulder at the now-fed pigs. "Well, ya got here just in time to find out I already finished ‘em." She gave him a knowing look. "Now, unless ya really wanted to roll up yer sleeves and do some shovelin’ for fun, I’m guessin’ that’s not the real reason ya stopped by."

Thunderlane chuckled, shaking his head. "Okay, ya got me. I mean, I do like spending time here, but—" he hesitated for a second before taking a breath. "I actually wanted to thank you."

Applejack leaned against the fence, crossing her hooves. "For what?"

"For talkin’ to me earlier. Helping me see Rumble’s side of things. I think I finally understand what I was doin’ wrong." His gaze softened, and there was genuine gratitude in his voice. "I had a long talk with him when I got home. We patched things up. I feel...lighter. And I owe a lot of that to you."

Applejack smiled. "Well, I’m real glad to hear that, Thunderlane. Y’all are family, and family’s important. I just helped ya see what was already in front of ya."

She expected him to nod, maybe give a casual thanks and be on his way. Instead, he hesitated, shifting his weight from hoof to hoof like he had something more to say. His wings twitched slightly at his sides.

"That’s...not the only reason I’m here."

Applejack’s ears perked up slightly. "Oh?"

Thunderlane took a slow breath, steadying himself. "Ever since that night. The night we watched over Apple Bloom and Rumble. Ever since we talked about our parents…" He trailed off, looking momentarily unsure, as if choosing the right words was harder than expected. "Before that, I always saw you as a good friend. Somepony I’ve known since we were foals. But something changed that night. When you hugged me and said, ‘You get me’... somethin’ shifted inside me. It’s been on my mind ever since."

Applejack remained quiet, her green eyes locked onto his. His heart pounded in his chest as he continued, words spilling out now that the dam had broken.

"I guess what I’m tryin’ to say is—I don’t just think of you as a friend anymore. It’s more than that. And if I’m being honest, I don’t think I’ve felt this way about anypony before. It’s new, and kinda scary, but... I know it’s real."

For a brief moment, silence stretched between them. The only sounds were the distant chirping of crickets and the rustling of the trees. Thunderlane felt a lump form in his throat. Had he just ruined everything?

Then, Applejack spoke. Her voice was steady, but there was something different in it—a warmth, a quiet excitement. "Y’know, that’s funny. ‘Cause I’ve been thinkin’ a lot about you too. Ever since that night, somethin’ about the way I see ya changed. Not just a friend, not just some pegasus I’ve known forever… but somepony I wanna be ‘round more. Somepony who makes me feel... safe. Happy. I think—I think I feel the same way."

Thunderlane blinked, hardly daring to believe his ears. "You do?"

Applejack chuckled, shaking her head fondly. "What, ya think I don’t got eyes, sugarcube? A mare would have to be blind not to notice how good of a stallion you are."

A smile broke across Thunderlane’s face, and before he knew it, his hoof was covering hers. It was warm, steady. "I won’t lie, I’m a little nervous. I mean... your family’s pretty protective."

Applejack smirked. "Oh, don’t you worry about them just yet. Let’s take things one step at a time."

They were close now, close enough to feel the warmth radiating off one another. Applejack could hear the subtle hitch in Thunderlane’s breath, and he could see the slight rosiness dusting her cheeks.

Neither of them knew who moved first, but suddenly, the space between them vanished as their lips met.

It was gentle at first, both hesitant, as if testing the waters. But as the seconds stretched, something warmer and deeper took hold. Applejack felt her heart thudding against her ribs, her pulse racing in a way that no amount of hard labor ever caused. There was strength in the way Thunderlane held her, but also tenderness, like she was something precious. And for a stallion used to flying high above the clouds, he felt completely grounded in this moment, as if she was the only thing tethering him to the earth.

By the time they pulled apart, both were slightly breathless. Applejack blinked, as if she couldn’t quite believe what had just happened. Thunderlane grinned, his eyes alight with a mix of exhilaration and awe.

Neither of them needed to say much after that. The look they exchanged spoke volumes.

“Guess I’ll see you tomorrow,” Thunderlane finally said, his voice softer than usual.

Applejack nodded. “Yeah… see you tomorrow.”

They shared one last lingering glance before he spread his wings and took off, disappearing into the evening sky.

Just a few yards away, Apple Bloom sat on her haunches by the barn window, eyes as wide as dinner plates.

She had been on her way back to the house when she spotted Thunderlane flying in. Curiosity got the best of her, and she had crept up to the window to eavesdrop. What she had witnessed was something she never expected in a million years.

Her sister… kissing Thunderlane.

Apple Bloom’s mind raced. What did this mean? Was Applejack in love? Did this mean Thunderlane was gonna be around even more? Would they start acting all mushy all the time? The mere thought made her scrunch her nose in mild horror.

At the same time, though… she had never seen her sister look that happy. Not just content, but genuinely happy.

Apple Bloom bit her lip, leaning her forehead against the wooden frame of the window. This was big. Really big. She needed time to think, to process.

One thing was for sure—tomorrow, she was going to get some answers.

With a final glance out the window, she turned and trotted back toward the house, her mind buzzing with thoughts of what this all meant for her big sister.

Author's Note

Next chapter will be The Show Stoppers. Remember how I told you I might change the chronology of the episodes. I would've written it before but I didn't have any concrete ideas. Speaking of ideas if you have any ideas how I should do Griffon the Brush Off, let me know because I struggle with this episode as well. See you next time.

The Show Stoppers

The warm morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the Apple family kitchen, casting a golden glow over the cozy wooden table where the family had gathered for breakfast. The smell of apple pancakes, fresh biscuits, and steaming cider filled the air as plates clinked and the usual morning chatter filled the room.

Well, mostly usual.

Apple Bloom sat at the table, idly poking at her pancakes with her fork, her expression unusually thoughtful. Normally, she’d be scarfing down her food faster than Winona chasing a squirrel, but today, she took slow, deliberate bites, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Braeburn, who had been happily munching on a buttered biscuit, took notice first. He tilted his head and nudged Apple Bloom’s shoulder with his hoof.

“Somethin’ on yer mind, cous?” he asked, his voice full of curiosity. “Ya ain’t eatin’ like ya normally do. Usually, we gotta make sure ya don’t inhale the whole plate before we get a chance.”

Applejack, seated across from her younger sister, paused in mid-bite of her pancake, glancing at her suspiciously. “Yeah, Apple Bloom. What’s up?”

Apple Bloom took a slow sip of her apple juice, drawing out the moment. “Ah was just wonderin’…” she started, dragging her words out in a way that immediately made Applejack tense up. “What were ya doin’ last night, sis?”

Big Mac and Braeburn glanced at each other, sensing something brewing. Granny Smith continued sipping her coffee, unconcerned—for now.

Applejack shot the filly a wary glance. “Feeding the pigs. Same as always.”

Apple Bloom leaned in slightly, lowering her voice just enough to make it dramatic. “So… feedin’ the pigs is what we’re callin’ it now?”

No. Nope. Not happenin’. She kept her expression calm, but internally, her brain was running laps around Sweet Apple Acres. Did Apple Bloom really see? How much? And why in Equestria was she bringing it up now?!

Then, with all the grace and subtlety of a stampeding cow, Apple Bloom casually blurted out, “’Cause Ah coulda sworn Ah saw ya and Thunderlane exchangin’ spit last night.”

The reaction was instantaneous.

Braeburn choked violently on his food, sputtering and coughing as he frantically reached for his water. Granny Smith’s spoon clattered onto her plate as she let out a surprised “Land sakes, child!” Applejack, face redder than a bushel of apples, shot up from her seat so fast that her chair nearly tipped over.

“What in tarnation kinda words are those?! Where’d ya even hear that?!”

Apple Bloom, utterly unbothered by the chaos she had just unleashed, casually took another bite of her pancake. “Probably Rarity’s place. She and Sweetie Belle talk about this stuff all the time when Ah visit.”

Braeburn, still recovering from his near-death experience, wiped his mouth and groaned. “Of course it was Rarity,” he muttered under his breath. “That mare’s got a way with fancy words, but she really shouldn’t be usin’ ‘em ‘round fillies…” Thunderlane and Applejack... huh. Y’know, that actually makes some sense. His mind briefly wandered to the way Thunderlane had been hanging around the farm lately, offering to help, always chatting with Applejack. And the way they interacted… well, he would be more surprised if there hadn’t been somethin’ brewing between these two.

Meanwhile, Granny Smith was attempting to restore order by whacking her wooden spoon against the table. “Enough o’ this hullabaloo! Apple Bloom, young lady, that ain’t proper breakfast conversation!”

Apple Bloom crossed her forelegs, grinning smugly. “Ah’m just statin’ facts, Granny.”

Applejack groaned and buried her face in her hooves. “ This is not happenin’...”

All the while, Big Mac sat quietly, still chewing his oats. He hadn’t said a word, but something in the air had changed. His normally relaxed demeanor had stiffened slightly, his chewing slower, more deliberate. His green eyes, usually so calm, had darkened just a fraction. He swallowed and then, for the first time in minutes, moved—taking a long sip of his cider, setting it down carefully, and folding his hooves on the table. His face remained neutral, but there was something weighing behind his gaze, something thoughtful.

And then, in the silence that followed, he simply uttered his signature phrase. “Eeyup.”

But it wasn’t the usual “eeyup.” No, this one was a bit lower. A bit heavier. Like he was considering something. Like something had settled in his gut, something he wasn’t entirely sure he liked.

Applejack felt the hairs on her neck prickle. She knew Big Mac well enough to read between the lines. He wasn’t saying anything against it outright, but... he ain’t exactly happy ‘bout it either.

Apple Bloom, oblivious to the sudden tension from her brother, turned back to Applejack, her smirk returning. “So, when’s the weddin’?”

Applejack nearly launched herself over the table. “APPLE BLOOM, YOU GET BACK HERE!”

The filly shrieked with laughter and bolted, her hooves pounding against the wooden floor as her furious older sister chased after her.

Granny Smith shook her head, muttering about “young’uns and their nonsense” as she returned to her coffe. Braeburn, finally regaining his composure, wiped his mouth and chuckled. Well, that was an excitin’ way to start the mornin’. He gave Big Mac a glance, noticing the stallion was still sitting there, staring down at his plate.

After a moment, Braeburn nudged him. “Y’alright there, cuz?”

Big Mac’s expression didn’t change. He simply picked up another forkful of oats, chewing slowly. “Eeyup.”

Braeburn wasn’t convinced.

The school bell rang loud and clear through Ponyville, signaling the start of another day. Rumble trotted up the dirt path to the schoolhouse, his saddlebag slung over his back, packed with books, pencils, and one slightly squashed sandwich he had hastily stuffed in before leaving. As he neared the entrance, he noticed foals scattered across the yard, chatting in small groups, playing a quick game of tag, or shoving the last bits of breakfast into their mouths before class started.

He spotted Featherweight and Button Mash off to the side—Button mashing imaginary buttons in the air, likely talking about his latest video game conquest while Featherweight nodded absentmindedly. Rumble waved at them, but when they didn’t notice, he simply sighed and walked inside.

The classroom was already filling up as students took their seats. Rumble slid into his usual spot near the middle, stretching his wings before resting them at his sides. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were huddled together at their desk, whispering excitedly about something. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were sitting in the front row, looking as smug as ever, while Snips and Snails were laughing about something that probably wasn’t all that funny.

Cheerilee trotted in with a warm smile. “Good morning, class!” she greeted, placing a stack of papers on her desk. “Before we begin today’s lesson, I have a special announcement.”

That caught everypony’s attention. Even Snips and Snails stopped giggling.

“This weekend, Ponyville will be hosting its annual Foal & Filly Talent Show!” Cheerilee announced brightly. “For those of you who are new or just need a reminder, this is an opportunity for young ponies to showcase their special skills, you can enter solo or as a group.”

Diamond Tiara, who sat near the front, flipped her mane and smirked. “I’ve heard of it. Mom says talent shows are just a way for ponies with no actual talent to embarrass themselves.”

Silver Spoon giggled, and a few foals snickered, but Cheerilee gave them a pointed look. “Now, Diamond Tiara, everypony has a talent! And this is a wonderful opportunity to explore what you enjoy and express yourselves creatively.”

Apple Bloom, sitting beside Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, perked up. “That sounds like a perfect chance to get our cutie marks!”

Scootaloo grinned. “Yeah! A talent show! That’s gotta be the way we figure out what we’re meant to do, right?”

Sweetie Belle nodded enthusiastically. “We just have to come up with the perfect act!”

Cheerilee chuckled. “I see some of you are already eager! If you’re interested, I’ll have sign-up sheets ready by the end of the day. Think about what you’d like to do and who you might want to work with.”

With that, the class moved on to their regular lessons, but the talent show lingered in everypony’s minds, including Rumble.

When recess arrived, the schoolyard bustled with foals discussing potential acts. Rumble wandered past the playground, where Pipsqueak and Dinky Doo sat on a bench under the shade of a tree, talking animatedly. Curious, he trotted over.

"Hey, guys," he greeted, wings fluttering. "What’s up?"

Pipsqueak’s eyes gleamed with excitement. "We’re trying to figure out what to do for the talent show!"

"Yeah," Dinky added, her horn sparking slightly as she gestured. "Pip wants to do something adventurous, and I was thinking of adding some magic to make it more exciting."

Rumble tilted his head. "Like what?"

Pipsqueak sat up proudly. "A swashbuckling play!" He mimed holding a sword in his hoof, striking a dramatic pose. "A tale of pirates and treasure, daring escapes and sea battles!"

Rumble chuckled. "Sounds cool. And you?" He turned to Dinky.

Dinky tapped her chin. "Well, I don’t want to just do magic tricks like pulling rabbits out of a hat. I was thinking of making something more... grand! Like illusions! Maybe I could make a ghost ship appear on stage!"

"Whoa," Rumble said, eyes widening. "That actually sounds awesome."

"Yeah, but we still need to figure out how to make it all work," Pipsqueak admitted, frowning slightly. "I mean, we need a story and actors and props and—"

Before he could spiral into overthinking, Rumble cut in. "Hey, can I join?"

Pipsqueak and Dinky blinked.

"You?"

"Yeah. I asked Featherweight and Button Mash, but neither of them are interested," Rumble explained, shrugging. "And honestly, your idea sounds pretty cool. I don’t know much about acting, but I could be one of the pirates or something!"

Pipsqueak and Dinky exchanged glances before grinning. "Of course!" Pipsqueak cheered. "Every great crew needs a strong flyer!"

"And you can help with the stage effects," Dinky added. "Maybe create gusts of wind for the storm scene!"

Rumble nodded eagerly. "Sounds like a plan!"

Later in the day, during lunch break, the schoolyard was full of chatter as foals discussed their plans for the talent show. Near the playground, Rumble, Pipsqueak, and Dinky were still brainstorming ideas for their pirate-themed performance when the unmistakable voices of the Cutie Mark Crusaders reached their ears.

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were gathered near the school steps, talking animatedly. Scootaloo was the most enthusiastic, waving her hooves wildly as she spoke.

"I'm tellin' ya, we need something big!" she declared, flaring her wings. "Something epic! Something that’ll make everypony’s jaws drop!"

Apple Bloom nodded. "Ah hear ya, Scoots, but what exactly are we doin’?"

Scootaloo grinned. "A wicked rock ballad!" She continued , already caught up in her vision. "Imagine it—stage lights, awesome song and a backup in a form of guitar and drums.

Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow. "Drums? Scoots, ya ever played the drums before?"

Scootaloo waved a hoof dismissively. "Not yet, but how hard can it be?"

Apple Bloom sighed. "Ah feel like Ah've heard that before."

Meanwhile, a few steps away, Rumble, Pipsqueak, and Dinky exchanged glances.

"A rock ballad?" Rumble repeated, intrigued.

"It does sound exciting," Dinky admitted.

“Maybe, although rock has nothing on a good shanty.” Muttered Pipsqueak under his breath.

Deciding to investigate, the trio stepped closer. "You guys are doing a rock performance?" Rumble asked.

Scootaloo turned toward him, smirking. "Yep! Something awesome."

The colt stepped forward. “Hey, uh, I got an idea.”

The Crusaders turned to him. “Really?” Scootaloo asked, tilting her head.

Rumble glanced at Pipsqueak and Dinky, then back at them. “What if… we teamed up?”

Scootaloo’s ears perked. “Oh?”

“I mean, we’re all trying to come up with something, right? And we don’t wanna mess it up.” Rumble shrugged. “If we put our ideas together, we could make something way better than if we each tried to do it on our own.”

Pipsqueak and Dinky exchanged glances, then nodded.

Scootaloo tapped her chin, considering. “Y’know… that actually sounds kinda awesome.” She grinned. “If we did that, we could still do the rock ballad! But maybe mix it with storytelling? Like a performance with music and acting?”

Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes but smiled. “As long as nopony has to scream.”

Apple Bloom’s eyes lit up. “With you three ,we can make it a whole production!”

And just like that, the group was set. Rumble didn’t say it out loud, but something inside him felt right about this. Maybe it was just the idea of making something great for the talent show.

Or maybe it was because he was going to be spending a lot more time with Scootaloo.

Either way, this was going to be awesome.

The dirt road leading to Sweet Apple Acres stretched ahead, dust rising in small clouds beneath Thunderlane’s hooves as he trotted alongside Rumble. The late afternoon sun bathed the orchards in a golden glow, painting long shadows across the fields. Normally, Thunderlane would’ve just flown them there, but Rumble insisted on walking, saying something about “saving his wings for the big performance.”

Not that Thunderlane minded the extra time to think.

He hadn’t been able to get much sleep the night before. Not after that. The moment replayed in his mind over and over—Applejack’s lips on his, the warmth of it, the electricity that ran through his whole body. It had happened so fast, yet it felt like time had stretched out forever.

Rumble, oblivious to his brother’s inner turmoil, banked sharply and landed in the dirt path leading to the farmhouse. Thunderlane followed suit, shaking his wings out before tucking them neatly at his sides. Almost immediately, Applejack and Apple Bloom came into view, walking up to meet them.

“Howdy, fellas,” Applejack greeted, tipping her hat.

Her voice was as steady as ever, her expression warm—but Thunderlane didn’t miss the quick glance she gave him, the flicker of something in her green eyes. He felt a pull in his chest, a silent wish to be alone with her again, to make sure everything between them was still steady.

But before he could even think of what to say, Apple Bloom smirked.

“Sure is nice of you to bring Rumble all the way here, Thunderlane,” she drawled, her eyes practically gleaming. “Even though AJ could’ve just come n’ got him herself… Y’know, since y’all are so close now.”

Thunderlane’s wings stiffened slightly.

Applejack shot her little sister a sharp look. “Apple Bloom—”

“Oh, don’t mind me,” Apple Bloom said with an exaggerated innocent tone. “Just sayin’! It’s real nice when ponies care about each other so much that they—”

“Alright, that’s enough outta you,” Applejack cut her off, her cheeks tinged pink.

Rumble blinked, shifting his gaze between Applejack and his brother. He might’ve been young, but he wasn’t that dense. Apple Bloom was hinting at something, and judging by the way Thunderlane looked like he wanted to disappear into the dirt and Applejack looked like she was fighting the urge to swat her sister with her hat, it wasn’t hard to guess.

Rumble quirked an eyebrow. “…Wait a minute. Did you guys—?”

“C’mon, Rumble, let’s get ya settled in,” Applejack interrupted, hastily steering him toward the clubhouse path. “We got a lot to go over, and we ain’t got time to waste.”

Apple Bloom shot Thunderlane a mischievous smirk before trotting after them, leaving Thunderlane standing there, ears burning.

“Well, that was somethin’,” he muttered to himself.

“Eeyup.”

Thunderlane nearly jumped out of his coat. He whirled around to find Big Mac standing just a few feet away, calmly plowing the soil like he’d been there the whole time. His red coat was lightly dusted with dirt, and his yoke sat firm on his shoulders. He hadn’t looked up from his work—just acknowledged Thunderlane’s presence in that same way he always did.

Thunderlane hesitated before stepping a little closer. “Hey, Mac.”

“Thunderlane.”

Silence stretched between them. Thunderlane shifted on his hooves, glancing at the plow slicing through the earth. “Looks like a good harvest this year.”

“Eeyup.”

More silence.

Thunderlane cleared his throat. “Uh… The clubhouse turned out nice. Rumble said Braeburn fixed it up?”

Big Mac nodded. “Eeyup.”

Thunderlane resisted the urge to sigh. He wasn’t exactly sure why he was trying to make small talk with Big Mac—maybe just to gauge where he stood. He had a sinking feeling that Mac already knew. About him and Applejack. About the kiss.

And sure enough, after another moment of silence, Big Mac finally stopped, resting a hoof on the plow. He turned his head slightly, his green eyes settling on Thunderlane—not cold, not angry, just… firm.

“I think you should go now.”

It wasn’t an order. It wasn’t a threat.

But Thunderlane felt the weight behind it.

His wings twitched at his sides, and he exhaled slowly. “I just want you to know I don’t mean any disrespect,” he said quietly. “Not to you, not to your family.”

Big Mac didn’t answer right away. He just looked at him a second longer, then went back to plowing.

“…Eeyup.”

Thunderlane swallowed, then stretched his wings.

He took off, soaring above the orchard, but his mind wasn’t on the flight. His thoughts churned, restless.

This was new. This was… complicated.

Applejack was Applejack. Stubborn, strong, independent. She didn’t need permission from her brother, or anypony else, to make her own decisions.

But Thunderlane also knew that the Apple family wasn’t just any family. They were deep-rooted, traditional, generations upon generations of earth ponies. And as far as he knew, no Apple had ever been with a pegasus before.

Was he making things harder for her? Was he stepping into something he shouldn’t?

The last thing he wanted was to be the reason Applejack had trouble with her own kin.

But then he remembered the look in her eyes last night—the quiet certainty behind it. The way she kissed him back, like she had been waiting for it just as much as he had.

He wasn’t sure how this would go.

But one thing was for sure:

He wasn’t going to just walk away.

The clubhouse was alive with noise—too much noise.

Rumble winced as Pipsqueak strummed wildly on his guitar, hitting every note except the ones he was supposed to. Sweetie Belle, with a mouthful of thread, struggled to stitch together a ragged-looking pirate coat while Apple Bloom twirled in circles, trying to incorporate an energetic dance routine. Meanwhile, Scootaloo stood at the center, belting out lyrics in an off-key voice, trying her best to sound like a rockstar but ending up somewhere between a howling timberwolf and a rusty wagon wheel.

And then there was Dinky, who, with a concentrated frown, smeared bright blue makeup across Rumble’s face.

“This… isn’t how I imagined this going,” Rumble muttered, blinking as Dinky moved on to apply glitter to his wings.

“Hold still,” Dinky scolded. “Pirates have to look cool!”

“I don’t think real pirates wore makeup,” he pointed out.

“Well, ours do!” she huffed, swirling a brush full of dark eyeshadow across his eyelid.

Across the room, Scootaloo slammed her hoof against the floor. “Alright! Let’s try again! From the top!”

Pipsqueak groaned, gripping his guitar. “Are you sure I shouldn’t just, y’know… do something else?”

“You love pirates!” Scootaloo shot back.

“I love being a pirate, not playing guitar like a fish with hooves.”

Apple Bloom huffed, coming to a wobbly stop from her spinning. “And I don’t know if dancin’ is workin’ out neither. I keep bumpin’ into stuff!”

“You’re supposed to dodge the imaginary sea monsters while you dance,” Scootaloo said matter-of-factly.

Apple Bloom frowned. “Well, that sure sounds easy, but it ain’t!”

Rumble sighed. “And, uh… do we need narration? It kinda slows everything down…”

Scootaloo narrowed her eyes. “Rumble, the narration sets the scene.”

“Yeah, but it’s supposed to be a rock ballad,” he pointed out. “Not a bedtime story.”

Sweetie Belle, who had been wrestling with a pirate vest for the past ten minutes, groaned in frustration. “I can’t sew!” she finally shouted, tossing the poorly-stitched garment aside. “Why am I even doing this!?”

“You said we needed cool outfits,” Pipsqueak reminded her.

“Well, yeah, but I thought somepony else was gonna make them! I have no idea how to sew!”

Tension crackled in the air.

The six of them stood there, staring at one another. It was obvious: they were terrible at this. Everypony was trying to do something they weren’t good at, and it was a complete disaster.

Scootaloo groaned and flopped onto her back. “Okay. I might admit… this is harder than I thought.”

Outside the clubhouse, Applejack crept closer, careful not to make a sound.

She hadn’t meant to eavesdrop—truly, she hadn’t. But despite all of Apple Bloom’s teasing throughout the day, Applejack still wanted her little sister and her friends to succeed. The thought of them putting their hearts into this only to embarrass themselves on stage? She couldn’t bear it.

So, she had come by to check on them. Just for a moment.

She immediately regretted it.

The… cacophony coming from inside made her ears twitch. She caught bits and pieces: Scootaloo’s off-key wailing, Pipsqueak’s guitar screeches, Rumble’s awkward narration, and some truly questionable stage makeup choices.

Applejack winced, stepping back like she had just witnessed somepony ruining a perfectly good apple pie by dumping a bucket of salt on it.

Oh, sugarcube…

As much as she wanted to be supportive, there was no denying it—they were awful.

Walking away from the clubhouse, she sighed, her hat tilting forward slightly as she thought.

She couldn’t just not say anything. If she didn’t intervene, they were gonna humiliate themselves in front of the whole school. But at the same time, she didn’t wanna crush their spirits. Apple Bloom would never let her hear the end of it if she came in acting all high and mighty, telling them they were doing everything wrong.

She needed to think carefully.

Because breaking it to them that their talent show performance was less than ideal?

That was gonna be harder than buckin’ an entire orchard in a day.

The morning sun hung high over Sweet Apple Acres as Soarin and Rainbow Dash glided down toward the barn, Scootaloo perched on Soarin’s back. The filly had begged them to bring her over after their morning practice session, eager to return to the clubhouse and perfect her performance.

"Alright, squirt," Rainbow said as they landed, ruffling Scootaloo’s mane. "Here ya go. Applejack’s probably around here somewhere."

Scootaloo hopped off and trotted up to the farmhouse, where Applejack was already stepping outside, wiping sweat off her brow.

"Morning, AJ!" Soarin greeted. "Brought ya one peppy little filly, courtesy of Cloudsdale Express."

Applejack gave a nod. "Much appreciated."

Just as she was about to usher Scootaloo inside, the filly perked up.

"Oh! Before you guys go—do you wanna see our rehearsal?" Scootaloo beamed. "We worked super hard last night! I think we're really getting somewhere!"

Rainbow and Soarin exchanged glances. They hadn't really made plans for the day, and if Scootaloo was this excited…

"Sure," Rainbow said, stretching her wings. "We got time."

"Yeah, why not?" Soarin added.

Scootaloo’s face lit up as she turned toward the orchard. "Awesome! Follow me!"

As she trotted ahead, Applejack tapped Soarin’s shoulder. He turned, and she just gave him a flat look before saying two simple words:

"Good luck."

Then she walked off, leaving him and Rainbow staring after her, both confused.

Scootaloo grinned and took off, leading the way. As the two Wonderbolts followed, Applejack sighed heavily, shook her head, and muttered under her breath, “Celestia help ‘em.”

The moment they arrived at the clubhouse, Scootaloo rushed ahead, hopping up onto their makeshift stage.

“Alright, everypony, places!” she called out.

Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Rumble, Dinky, and Pipsqueak scrambled into position. Sweetie Belle hastily smoothed out the questionable pirate costumes she had sewn (one of which had loose threads hanging everywhere), while Dinky clutched a makeup brush, ready to reapply their ‘rockstar’ stage looks.

Pipsqueak held his guitar proudly, completely oblivious to the fact that it was not an electric guitar and therefore would not produce anything remotely ‘rock’.

Rainbow and Soarin settled onto a haybale, leaning forward with interest.

“This is gonna be awesome!” Scootaloo announced before throwing her hooves in the air. “A one! A two! A one-two-three-four!”

Then it began.

And it was…

Horrifying.

Scootaloo threw herself into her singing with all the power of a rock legend—except her voice cracked violently every time she tried to hit a high note. She was passionate, sure, but it sounded like a parrot being squeezed too hard.

Rumble dramatically recited his narration, his voice cracking even worse than Scootaloo’s.

"In a time long ago, when the seas were ruled by mighty warriors of the tide—!"

He suddenly coughed mid-sentence, breaking character completely.

Then there was Apple Bloom, who attempted to dance across the stage but tripped over her own hooves again, this time knocking over Sweetie Belle in the process.

Sweetie, meanwhile, had been attempting to wave a pirate flag, but she got tangled in the oversized cape she had sewn, struggling like a fly caught in a web.

Pipsqueak, fully committed to his role as the band’s ‘guitarist,’ was strumming his completely acoustic guitar with so much energy that it sounded like an out-of-tune banjo.

Dinky tried to salvage things by adding dramatic makeup mid-performance. She ran up to Scootaloo and smeared some black across her face, aiming for ‘fearsome pirate’ but ending up with something closer to ‘pony who just lost a hoof-wrestling match with a squid’.

Then came the grand finale. Scootaloo leaped onto the crate, let out a completely off-key wail, and struck a dramatic pose.

Silence.

Rainbow and Soarin sat completely still, trying to process what they had just witnessed.

Scootaloo, beaming, turned to them expectantly. “Well? What do you think?”

Rainbow opened her mouth, then closed it.

She had seen bad performances before.

She had been in bad performances before.

But this? This was on another level. She had no idea how to respond without crushing their spirits.

Soarin, however, didn’t hesitate.

“That was awful.”

“Dude!” Rainbow smacked his shoulder, horrified.

“What?” He looked at her, baffled. “It was bad!”

“You don’t say that to them!” Rainbow hissed. “Look at their faces!”

Indeed, the foals all looked somewhere between crushed and confused. Scootaloo’s ears drooped. “Y-you think it’s that bad?”

Soarin sighed and softened his tone. “Listen, I didn’t mean it to sound harsh. It’s just… well, yeah, it’s bad right now. But that doesn’t mean it has to be bad. You guys just need a better plan.”

Rumble frowned. “A better plan?”

Soarin nodded. “Yeah. Look, I think the problem here is that you’re all trying to do things you want to do, instead of things you’re actually good at.”

The group exchanged uncertain glances.

“Think about it,” Soarin continued. “What’s the point of having Pipsqueak on guitar when he’s never played before? Or having Scootaloo as lead singer when Sweetie Belle is right there?”

Sweetie Belle blinked. “Wait, me?”

Soarin smirked. “You’ve got a good voice, kid. And I know from experience that Scootaloo’s got a lot of energy—she should be the lead actor, not the singer.”

Scootaloo tilted her head. “You… think I’d be a good actor?”

“Kid, I’ve seen you hype yourself up over the tiniest things. You know how to put on a show. That’s what this needs.”

She grinned, puffing up slightly. “Heck yeah, I do!”

Soarin continued, now in full coaching mode. “Pipsqueak, I’ve heard from Scoots how much you love telling stories near campfire. You should be the narrator.

Pipsqueak’s eyes widened. “Really? I mean, I do like telling stories…”

“Exactly.”

“What about me?” Rumble asked.

Soarin smirked. “You know a few chords, right?”

Rumble hesitated. “Uh… yeah? Thunderlane’s been teaching me a little…”

“Then you should be playing the guitar,” Soarin said simply. “At least you have some experience.”

Rumble’s face lit up with realization. “That… actually makes sense.”

Soarin turned to Dinky. “I hear you’ve won some young conjurer contests.”

Dinky blinked in surprise. “Uh, yeah, I have!”

“Well, then, you’re on special effects. If you time your magic right, it’ll add a ton to the performance.”

Dinky beamed. “Oh! I can totally do that!”

Soarin then turned to Apple Bloom. “You’re good with hoofwork, right?”

Apple Bloom shrugged. “I guess.”

“No, you are,” Soarin said firmly. “You should be on props and set design. This whole scare crow you built near the farm? It’s actually pretty solid. You focus on that, and I bet you can make something really cool.”

Apple Bloom perked up at the compliment. “Y’know… that actually sounds kinda fun.”

Finally, Soarin clapped his hooves together. “See? Now we actually have a lineup that works.”

Rainbow, finally recovering from her initial shock, gave a small nod. “You know… that’s actually a pretty good setup.”

Scootaloo looked at Rumble. “You really think you can play the guitar part?”

Rumble hesitated. “I mean… I think so. I know a few chords, but I’d need help.”

Rainbow smirked. “Then ask Applejack. She’s actually pretty good at guitar.”

Rumble’s eyebrows shot up. “She is?”

“Yeah, I’ve heard her play before,” Rainbow confirmed. “If you need tips, she’s your best bet.”

Rumble looked thoughtful, then nodded. “Okay. I’ll talk to her.”

Scootaloo looked at her team, then back at Soarin. “You really think this’ll make us better?”

Soarin grinned. “Kid, I know it will.”

With their new plan in place, the group started rehearsing outside the clubhouse. The space was bigger, the energy was higher, and for the first time, everything actually felt like it was working.

As Rainbow and Soarin watched, they exchanged a glance.

“Y’know, Soar,” Rainbow muttered. “I gotta admit, that was a pretty good save.”

Soarin smirked. “What can I say? I’ve been in enough bad performances to know how to fix them.”

Rainbow chuckled. “Guess we’ll see if they can pull this off.”

Soarin watched as Scootaloo confidently took center stage, while Sweetie Belle sang the first few lines. He grinned.

“Oh, they will.”

he golden hues of the setting sun cast long shadows over Sweet Apple Acres as Applejack sat on the farmhouse porch. The warm breeze carried the scent of apples and earth, mingling with the gentle hum of cicadas.

Her ears perked up at the sound of approaching hoofsteps. She looked up to see Rumble standing at the bottom of the porch steps, an old guitar slung over him. His expression was a mixture of determination and uncertainty.

"Hey there, sugarcube," Applejack greeted with a friendly smile. "What brings ya by?"

Rumble hesitated for a moment before rubbing the back of his neck. "Uh, well… Rainbow said I should talk to you if I needed help with some guitar stuff. I was assigned to play for our performance, but I only know a few chords. Thought maybe you could teach me?"

Applejack’s grin widened. "Well, ain't that somethin’! I’d be more than happy to help ya, Rumble. C’mon up, have a seat."

Rumble clambered onto the porch and settled next to her.

"Alright, lemme see what ya got so far."

Rumble took a deep breath and started playing a few chords, but his transitions were choppy, and his hooves fumbled a little. Applejack watched patiently, nodding along before placing a hoof gently over his to stop him.

"Not bad at all, sugarcube. Ya got the basics, but ya gotta smooth out them changes. Here, lemme show ya."

She took the guitar from him and adjusted it on her lap. Her hooves moved effortlessly over the strings, playing the same chord progression but with fluidity and ease. She looked at him with a knowing grin. "See how I keep my hoof loose when I shift? Helps make it more natural."

Rumble watched closely, nodding as he absorbed her advice. He was about to take the guitar back when, out of nowhere, he blurted out, "So… you and Thunderlane. Are you two a thing?"

Applejack hit a completely off-key note, the sharp sound making both of them wince. She coughed awkwardly and quickly set the guitar down, suddenly very interested in adjusting her hat. "Uh, now where in Equestria did that come from?"

Rumble folded his forelegs, giving her a look that reminded her far too much of a skeptical little brother. "Come on, Applejack. Don’t play dumb. Thunderlane’s tried that with me before, and it doesn’t work."

Applejack let out a small sigh, rubbing the back of her neck. "Rumble, I ain't tryin’ to pull a fast one on ya or make ya feel like a foal. Honest. I just wasn’t expectin’ that question, is all."

Rumble didn't budge. "So?"

Applejack exhaled, realizing she wasn't getting out of this one. She turned to face him properly, her expression softening. "Yeah… we decided to give this a try. After everything that’s happened lately, it just felt right. He and I… we get each other."

Rumble tilted his head. "Because of the whole… not having parents thing?"

Applejack nodded slowly. "Yeah. That, and havin’ to step up for our younger siblings. It ain't easy, raisin’ somepony when you're just a young’un yourself. And I reckon there's somethin’ real comfortin’ about being with somepony who truly understands that." She looked away for a moment, as if sorting through her thoughts before continuing. "Thunderlane gets me in a way a lotta ponies don’t. He knows what it's like to feel responsible, to worry if you’re doin’ enough. To be scared but never lettin’ it show 'cause ya got a little one lookin’ up to ya."

Rumble's tough expression wavered. His ears lowered slightly, and he let out a slow breath. "Huh… well… of all the mares in Ponyville, I guess you’d be the best one to have as a sister-in-law."

Applejack blinked in surprise before a warm chuckle escaped her. "Well, now, that’s one heck of a compliment. Thank ya, sugarcube. That means a lot." She reached over and ruffled his mane playfully, and for once, Rumble didn't squirm away.

He shrugged, but there was a small smile playing at his lips. "I just want Thunderlane to be happy, y’know? And… I guess if it’s with somepony like you, then I’m okay with it."

Applejack's heart softened. "That’s mighty sweet of ya, Rumble. And I promise, we ain’t rushin’ nothin’. Just takin’ things one step at a time. But I appreciate ya bein’ lookin’ out for your big bro."

Rumble smirked. "Well, somepony has to."

Applejack chuckled and nudged the guitar back toward him. "Alright, enough of that serious talk. Let’s get back to work. You still need to smooth out them chords."

Rumble took the guitar and nodded. "Yeah, alright. Show me again."

With a warm, family-like atmosphere settling between them, Applejack guided him through the chords again, this time with Rumble paying closer attention. They played together as the sun dipped lower, casting golden light over the orchard. And for a little while, things felt just right.

The last glow of the evening sun bathed Ponyville in golden light as ponies gathered in the town square, where a stage had been set for the annual Foal & Filly Talent Show. The crowd was buzzing with excitement, parents and siblings chatting as they awaited the final performance of the night.

Among the audience sat Thunderlane, Applejack, Braeburn, Ms. Chestnut, Ditzy Doo, Soarin, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity. Each had come to see their younger family members or protégés perform. Applejack sat next to Thunderlane, their shoulders occasionally brushing—a small, unnoticed detail to most, but one that made both of them acutely aware of the other.

Rainbow Dash nudged Soarin and asked, “So, you really think your advice helped?”

Soarin smirked. “Oh, for sure. But we’re about to find out, aren’t we?”

Before Rainbow could retort, Cheerilee took the stage. “And now, everypony, our final performance of the evening! Please give a warm round of applause for Rumble, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Pipsqueak, and Dinky Doo, the crew of Destiny’s Mark!”

The crowd erupted into cheers as the curtains drew open.

The lanterns dimmed, and an ocean-blue glow spread across the stage. Dinky’s magic shimmered in the air, creating the illusion of vast rolling waves. The silhouette of a grand pirate ship took shape, its sails unfurling with a quiet rustle. From behind a cleverly crafted ship railing, Scootaloo stood tall in a deep blue captain’s coat, her eyes fierce with determination as the story began.

Pipsqueak’s voice rang clear and steady, narrating the tale of a fearless pirate crew in search of treasure—one not of gold or jewels, but of identity, of purpose. The magic behind him swirled, forming the shadowy figures of sailors braving the high seas, their silhouettes moving in tandem with Scootaloo’s bold gestures.

Sweetie Belle’s voice soared through the air, a haunting melody full of longing and resolve. She sang of adventure and the unknown, of the fear and thrill of searching for something just out of reach. Rumble, seated off to the side, strummed his acoustic guitar, the soft chords rising and falling with the rhythm of the story, pulling the audience deeper into the performance.

Apple Bloom’s props were a marvel—rope ladders stretched across the deck, a great wooden ship’s wheel turned beneath Scootaloo’s hooves, and a towering mast stood proudly at center stage, painted with the emblem of a compass rose. Every piece was hoof-crafted, each detail painstakingly placed to bring the world of the ‘Destiny’s Mark’ to life.

Scootaloo commanded the stage, throwing herself into her role with all the spirit of a true adventurer. She battled imaginary storms conjured by Dinky’s illusions, staring down foes that weren’t really there but felt real in the glow of the filly’s magic. She turned to her phantom crew, rallying them onward with fire in her voice, her wings flaring as if she could take flight at any moment.

As the performance built to its climax, the ship finally reached the fabled island, where, instead of treasure, the crew found a mirror. In it, their own reflections stared back—not as lost pirates, but as brave explorers, discovering that the answers they sought had been within them all along. Sweetie Belle’s final note lingered in the air as the illusion of the sea faded and the lanterns brightened once more.

The audience sat in stunned silence for a moment before the first stomping applause broke out. Then, the whole square erupted into cheers and whoops, the ponies clapping their hooves wildly against the ground. Thunderlane was on his hooves, whistling loudly, while Applejack let out a cheer so enthusiastic it nearly rivaled Rainbow Dash’s. Ditzy hugged Dinky, beaming with pride, while Rarity dabbed her eyes with a hoofkerchief.

As the judges conferred, the foals gathered backstage, breathless from their performance. They hardly had time to catch their breath before Cheerilee returned to the stage with a wide smile. “The judges have made their decision. First place in this year’s Ponyville Foal & Filly Talent Show goes to… the crew of the ‘Destiny’s Mark’!”

Another wave of applause burst forth as the foals ran back onto the stage, their faces alight with joy as Cheerilee presented them with their trophy. Applejack and Thunderlane were the first to rush forward, meeting Rumble and Apple Bloom with proud smiles.

Applejack pulled Apple Bloom into a tight hug. “Sugarcube, that was amazin’! Y’all put on one heck of a show.”

Thunderlane ruffled Rumble’s mane. “Didn’t know you had it in you, little bro. You killed it up there.”

Rumble grinned up at him, then looked to Applejack. “Thanks for helping me with the chords. I think it made a difference.”

Applejack chuckled. “Well, Ah’m glad it helped. Ya really did good up there, Rumble.”

The warmth in her tone made Thunderlane glance at her, and as their eyes met, something unspoken passed between them—a quiet understanding, a shared pride in the foals before them.

As the night carried on, the foals basked in the praise of their families, and Applejack and Thunderlane found themselves standing side by side, watching their siblings celebrate. Without thinking, Thunderlane leaned in just a little. “Guess they really pulled it off, huh?”

Applejack smirked. “Guess so.” Then, with a playful nudge, she added, “Looks like all they needed was a small push in the right direction.

Thunderlane chuckled, glancing toward Soarin, who was currently getting an excited rundown of the performance from Scootaloo. “Yeah… looks like it did.”

The evening stretched on, filled with laughter, warmth, and the glow of lantern light. The foals had found their victory, and perhaps, in a quieter way, so had Applejack and Thunderlane.

Author's Note

Next time we'll focus on someone we haven't seen in a while. I bet you won't guess who it is. :D

See you then.

Under the moon

The golden afternoon sun bathed the Ponyville train station in warm light as the engine let out a sharp whistle, signaling its imminent departure. Ponies bustled about the platform, saying their goodbyes, checking their tickets, or making last-minute dashes for the train doors. Among them, Comet Tail and Twilight Sparkle stepped onto the platform, saddlebags packed and ready for their trip to Canterlot.

Comet adjusted the strap of his bag with a sigh. “Remind me again why we couldn’t just take a chariot? Or teleport?”

Twilight rolled her eyes but smiled as they approached their designated car. “Because the train is more practical, and you know long-distance teleportation is exhausting unless you’ve mastered spatial anchoring spells. Have you?”

Comet opened his mouth to argue but quickly shut it, opting instead for a small huff. “Still. Trains take forever. And they make my legs stiff.”

Twilight giggled as they boarded and found their seats by the window. “Oh, poor Prince Comet Tail, suffering in a cushioned seat for a whole hour. How will you survive?”

Comet shot her a look but couldn’t help the smirk tugging at his lips. “I’m just saying, with all the magic we have, there should be a better way to travel.”

Twilight pulled out a book from her bag and gave him a knowing glance. “There is. It’s called reading. Time flies when you’re learning something new.”

Comet groaned and leaned back against the seat as the train lurched forward. “You sound like Princess Celestia.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Twilight beamed.

The train rolled out of the station, Ponyville gradually disappearing into the distance. Fields of green stretched past the window, giving way to thick woodlands as the train made its way up the mountain toward Canterlot. The rhythmic clatter of wheels against the tracks filled the air, a steady backdrop to their conversation.

Twilight vibrated with excitement, her eyes bright. “I can’t believe the Canterlot Archives actually requested me to help with the organization! Do you know how many historical texts they’ve had locked away in storage? Some of these haven’t been read in centuries!”

Comet smirked as they stepped onto the train. “I don’t know if I should be impressed or concerned that sorting old books is your idea of a dream vacation.”

Twilight shot him a mock glare as they found their seats. “Don’t pretend you’re not just as excited to discuss friendship studies with Princess Celestia. You’ve probably written three essays in your head already.”

Comet chuckled. “Only two. The third one’s still forming.”

The train gave a soft jolt as it started moving, the landscape outside shifting from the familiar buildings of Ponyville to open countryside. The golden fields stretched under the morning sun, and the occasional grove of trees provided shade to grazing animals.

Twilight sighed happily as she settled into her seat. “You know, for all the times we studied together back in Canterlot, I don’t think we ever took a train trip just the two of us.”

Comet leaned against the window, watching the scenery roll past. “Probably because we were too busy trying to outdo each other in spellcasting exercises.”

Twilight laughed. “You were trying to outdo me. I was just focusing on the work.”

“Oh, please. You definitely turned every lesson into a competition.”

“Only because you always acted like you had to be the best,” Twilight shot back, though her tone was lighthearted.

Comet waved a hoof dismissively. “I was the best.”

Twilight groaned, rolling her eyes. “There it is.”

They both laughed, falling into the kind of easy rhythm they had developed years ago as classmates. It was nice—comfortable in a way that reminded them of their time at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns.

Twilight levitated a book from her bag, flipping it open. “Since we have some time, do you want to go over anything for your meeting with the princess?”

Comet considered for a moment before shaking his head. “No, I think I’ll just go in and talk. Friendship isn’t something you can just memorize from a book.” He smirked. “I know that’s a shocking concept for you.”

Twilight stuck out her tongue before turning her attention to her book. Comet stretched, shifting to get comfortable.

Outside the window, the rolling hills slowly transitioned into rocky cliffs as they neared Canterlot Mountain. The grandeur of the city loomed ahead, its golden spires glinting under the sunlight. The sight of it still held a special kind of awe—this was the city where they had both grown up, where they had learned magic, and now, where their paths were leading them back once more.

Comet let his head rest against the window, trying to ignore the occasional jostle of the train. Twilight, satisfied that she had won their little debate, returned to her book.

For now, the journey was peaceful. Neither of them had any idea how much the trip would change their lives by the time they returned home.

The afternoon sun filtered through the towering trees of the royal forest, casting golden patches of light on the soft, well-trodden dirt path. The crisp mountain air carried the scent of pine and damp earth, filling Twilight Sparkle’s lungs as she trotted beside Comet.

“I forgot how peaceful it is out here,” Twilight murmured, her eyes sweeping over the familiar surroundings. “It’s been ages since we last walked these trails.”

Comet nodded, his gaze drifting to the distant, sun-dappled clearing ahead. “Yeah… It feels like nothing’s changed. The trees, the smell of the campfire spots... It’s like stepping back in time.” He chuckled softly. “I half expect to see your dad leading Shining Armor on some kind of ‘survival drill.’”

Twilight laughed. “Oh, remember when he tried to teach us how to make a fire without magic?”

Comet groaned. “How could I forget? We sat there rubbing sticks together for an hour before he finally took pity on us.”

Twilight grinned. “Shining cheated. He used his magic the second Dad wasn’t looking.”

“That explains a lot,” Comet mused. “Meanwhile, I think I nearly set my own mane on fire trying to do it the ‘right’ way.”

Twilight giggled, nudging his side playfully. “You always were the overachiever.”

They walked in comfortable silence for a few more minutes, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest—the distant chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze, the occasional crack of twigs beneath their hooves.

“Oh! I just remembered something.”

Comet raised an eyebrow. “That you left the stove on back in Ponyville?”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “No. There’s a rare plant that grows in this forest—silverleaf mint. It makes the most amazing tea. I saw some earlier but forgot to pick it up.” She turned to him with an excited gleam in her eyes. “I want to bring some back to Ponyville for a taste test.”

Comet chuckled. “Of course you do. Only you would think of botany in the middle of reminiscing.”

Twilight ignored the teasing. “It’s just a short walk back. I won’t be long.”

Comet gestured around them. “Well, I’m not going anywhere. I’ll wait here.” He smirked. “I’ll just stand in the woods alone, completely defenseless, in case you need another reason to hurry up.”

Twilight smirked back. “You’ll be fine, you big foal. I’ll be back before you know it.” With that, she turned and trotted off, her tail swishing behind her as she disappeared down the winding path.

Comet let out a contented sigh, stretching his legs before sitting down on a smooth rock near the path’s edge. He let his saddlebag rest beside him, taking in the peaceful quiet of the forest. The sound of rustling leaves and distant birdsong filled the air, and for a moment, he allowed himself to relax.

Then, suddenly, he felt it.

A faint but distinct tug.

His ears flicked back, and his muscles tensed. Before he could react, the bag of bits at his side wrenched itself free and shot through the air.

“What the—?!”

Instinct took over. His horn flared with golden magic, and the sack jerked midair, halting in place. Comet gritted his teeth as he yanked it back toward himself, feeling resistance—another magical force trying to pull it away.

He wasn’t about to lose this tug-of-war. With a surge of power, he wrenched the sack free from its unseen thief’s grip, pulling it back into his hold.

And that’s when he saw her.

Trixie.

The pale blue unicorn stood a short distance away, her hood pulled up over her silvery mane. But there was no mistaking those violet eyes, which now burned with anger and frustration.

Comet’s own expression hardened. “You.”

Trixie’s lip curled into a snarl. “Great. You.”

The royal protege’s eyes narrowed as he locked onto the familiar blue unicorn before him. “Trixie,” he spat, his voice dripping with contempt.

Trixie’s ears flattened slightly, but she quickly straightened up, flipping her mane as if she hadn’t just been caught red-hoofed trying to steal from him. “Hmph! The Great and Powerful Trixie does not answer to thieves’ accusations!”

Comet let out a sharp, humorless laugh. “Thieves’ accusations? That’s rich, coming from the pony who just tried to snatch my bits right out of my bag.” He took a step closer, eyes gleaming with bitter amusement. “Tell me, is this what your ‘great and powerful’ magic has come to? Cheap tricks and petty theft?”

Trixie’s expression twisted into a scowl, her nostrils flaring. “Trixie wouldn’t have to resort to such desperate measures if you hadn’t ruined her!”

Comet’s smirk vanished in an instant. “Ruined you?” His voice grew sharp, incredulous. “Oh, that’s a good one. You were the one parading around Ponyville like you were the most powerful unicorn in Equestria! I proved that all you had were illusions. And now what? You expect me to feel sorry for you?”

Trixie stomped a hoof. “Trixie was making a living as a performer! She was entertaining ponies, making them laugh, making them believe in magic! And then you just had to come along, didn’t you?” Her voice trembled slightly, but she covered it with anger. “You just had to expose everything, humiliate Trixie in front of everypony! Now nopony will even watch her shows anymore! They call her a fraud, a charlatan! Nopony will even let her perform!”

Comet’s golden eyes flashed with cold anger. “Oh, come on. You did that to yourself. If your magic was actually great, you wouldn’t have to rely on smoke and mirrors.”

Trixie’s teeth clenched, and for a brief moment, her confident facade cracked. “You don’t understand—”

“I understand just fine,” Comet cut her off. “You wanted to be admired without actually putting in the work. You wanted ponies to think you were something you weren’t. And now you’re upset because they finally saw the truth?”

Trixie recoiled as if she’d been struck.

The moment hung heavy in the air.

Then—

“Comet!”

Both unicorns snapped their heads toward the voice. Twilight Sparkle had returned, her saddlebags bulging slightly with freshly picked silverleaf mint, but her focus was entirely on them. She glanced between them, her brows furrowing in concern. “What’s going on?”

Trixie let out a huff and turned away, nose high in the air. “Trixie was merely minding her own business when this insufferable stallion decided to pick a fight with her.”

Comet scoffed. “That’s a nice way of saying you tried to rob me.”

Twilight blinked, her eyes widening in surprise as she turned to Trixie. “Wait, is that true?”

Trixie huffed again but didn’t deny it. She scuffed a hoof against the dirt, her gaze darting away. “Trixie had no choice.”

Twilight’s expression softened just slightly. “Why?”

Trixie hesitated, her mouth opening as if to deflect, to spin another tale—but then she caught the way Twilight was looking at her. There was no judgment there, no immediate hostility. Just curiosity.

And something inside her cracked.

“Trixie had a career,” she said, her voice quieter than before. “She had audiences. Ponies cheered for her, watched her in awe. She was somepony.” She grit her teeth, trying to keep her composure. “Then he ruined everything.” She shot a glare at Comet, who only rolled his eyes.

Twilight’s ears perked slightly at the emotion in her voice. “What do you mean?”

Trixie turned to her fully now. “After what he did, nopony wanted to watch Trixie anymore. She tried to book performances, but word spread—‘Trixie is a fake.’ ‘Trixie is just cheap illusions.’ Even when she tried to show ponies her craft, they laughed her off! It didn’t matter what Trixie did—nopony cared anymore. They all believed him.”

Twilight’s heart clenched. She could see the way Trixie’s shoulders trembled, the way her voice cracked just slightly.

She was desperate.

She believed she had nothing left.

Twilight knew that feeling.

She had spent her whole life pushing herself, trying to be the best, to be recognized for her abilities. The idea of losing everything she had worked for, of everypony dismissing her as a fraud—it sent a chill down her spine.

She swallowed. “That must have been really hard.”

Trixie blinked, her ears twitching slightly.

Comet scoffed. “Oh, come on, Twilight. You’re actually feeling sorry for her?”

Twilight turned to him, her brows drawing together in frustration. “Comet, she’s—”

Comet sneered. “She’s manipulating you. That’s what she does.” He turned his gaze back to Trixie. “You act like I ruined your life, but all I did was tell the truth. If that was enough to destroy your career, then maybe it wasn’t much of one to begin with.”

Twilight winced. That was too much.

Trixie’s whole body stiffened, her head snapping up in defiance, but not before Twilight caught it—

A slight shimmer at the edge of her violet eyes.

Trixie wasn’t just angry.

She was hurt.

Twilight’s stomach twisted, a sudden surge of frustration bubbling up in her chest.

“Comet, that’s enough!”

Her voice was sharp.

Sharp enough that Comet recoiled slightly, his ears pinning back.

Twilight took a step forward, her jaw tight. “She’s already struggling enough. You don’t have to keep kicking her while she’s down.”

Comet opened his mouth, then hesitated. The way Twilight was looking at him… He had never seen her so serious, so firm.

He exhaled sharply and turned his head away. “Fine. Whatever.”

Twilight let out a slow breath before turning back to Trixie. The blue unicorn was staring at her warily, as if trying to figure out what game she was playing.

Twilight softened her voice. “Trixie… I know how much hard work and dedication it takes to become skilled at something. I know how it feels to have that effort questioned.” She met Trixie’s gaze. “You shouldn’t have to go through this alone. Maybe we can help.”

Trixie blinked. “...Help?”

Twilight nodded. “Maybe there’s another way forward. Another way for you to make a living doing what you love.”

Trixie hesitated. She glanced at Comet, who was still looking away, his expression unreadable. Then back at Twilight.

There was something different about her. Trixie had spent so much time facing scorn, facing laughter. But Twilight…

Twilight meant it.

For the first time in a long time, somepony was offering instead of mocking.

Trixie inhaled slowly.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie… does not trust you,” she finally said. “But… she will consider your offer.”

Twilight smiled. “That’s good enough for me.”

She turned, gesturing back toward the path. “Come on. Let’s get out of here.”

Trixie, despite herself, felt… lighter. Just a little.

Maybe, just maybe, this pony wasn’t so bad.

Trixie stood in the middle of the bustling café, balancing a tray of steaming tea cups and delicate pastries. She had insisted that she didn’t need to start as a mere server—after all, how hard could it be?

Twilight, sitting at a corner table with Comet, watched warily as Trixie strutted forward with exaggerated grace.

“Your orders have arrived!” Trixie declared, dramatically flipping her mane as she levitated the tray onto the table before a group of high-society unicorns. “Prepared and served by none other than the Great and Skillful Waitress, Trixie!”

Comet rolled his eyes. “Just set the tray down.”

But Trixie, always eager to impress, gave the tray a little flourish—only for it to tip too far. The teapot slid off.

Right onto an aristocratic mare’s hat.

A collective gasp echoed across the café. The mare shrieked, now sporting a rather steamed expression and a very soggy hat.

Twilight’s hooves hit her face. Comet stifled a chuckle.

Trixie, meanwhile, tried to recover, straightening up as if nothing had happened. “Ah… ahem! Complimentary steaming service!”

The café owner did not appreciate Trixie’s unique approach to customer service.

Trixie adjusted her chef’s hat and grinned at Twilight. “Now this is a job worthy of Trixie’s talents! Baking is practically stage magic, just with ingredients instead of illusions.”

Twilight gave a hesitant nod. “Just follow the recipe, Trixie. Baking is a science—precise measurements, patience, and—”

“Please,” Trixie scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Trixie can make a cake in her sleep.”

Ten minutes later, Twilight, Comet, and the head baker stood in horrified silence, staring at what could only be described as a… mutant pastry monstrosity.

Instead of a delicate soufflé, Trixie had somehow created an over-risen, aggressively bubbling blob that now oozed over the edges of the counter. It wobbled menacingly, as if alive.

Twilight dared to step closer. “Trixie, what did you do?”

“Trixie improved the recipe,” she declared proudly, hooves on her hips. “More flour for extra height! More eggs for better consistency! And a lot more yeast for—”

The blob lurched, expanding even more.

“…rise,” Trixie finished, her confidence finally faltering.

The head baker turned to Twilight with a deadpan look. “Get her out of my kitchen.”

Trixie trotted confidently through Canterlot with a saddlebag full of letters. “Now this is a job worthy of Trixie’s skills! The ponies of Canterlot shall marvel at her efficiency.”

Twilight, trailing behind with Comet, raised an eyebrow. “Just make sure to—”

“Deliver to the right address,” The magician finished. “Trixie needs no reminder! Her memory is flawless!”

By noon, all of Canterlot was in chaos.

"I GOT AN EVICTION NOTICE THAT WASN’T FOR ME!" shouted one furious stallion.

"THIS IS A BILL FOR FURNITURE SHOP. DO I LOOK LIKE A FURNITURE SHOP?!" screamed a noblepony.

"WHY IS THERE A LOVE LETTER ADDRESSED TO MY GRANDMA?!" a horrified mare wailed.

Twilight rushed through the streets, watching the panic unfold. Trixie stood proudly in the middle of it all, adjusting her hat.

"I must say," she mused, "this job is quite entertaining."

Twilight groaned. Comet chuckled. Trixie was promptly fired.

Twilight was at her wit’s end.

Trixie had to be good at something. Something!

So, Twilight went for the safest option: a quiet job that required little interaction with others.

"Librarian’s assistant," Twilight declared. "All you have to do is organize books and help ponies find them. No making things up. No ‘improving’ the system. Just follow the order of the index."

Trixie yawned. "Fine, fine. Trixie shall humor you."

For the first ten minutes, everything seemed fine.

Then Comet Tail walked into the library.

"...What is she doing here?" he asked flatly, watching Trixie levitate a stack of books with the precision of a sleep-deprived bat.

Twilight grinned nervously. "She’s trying out the assistant role!"

Comet blinked. Then, wordlessly, he turned around and walked right back out.

Trixie smirked. "Finally, something she excels at."

Then Twilight saw the bookshelf labels.

She felt her soul leave her body.

"Trixie," Twilight said slowly, "what did you do?"

Trixie puffed up. "Trixie has improved your outdated system! Everything is now categorized by—"

Twilight took a shaky breath and looked closer.

Instead of standard categories, the shelves were now labeled:

-Coolest covers

-Most impressive titles

-Colors that look good together

-Books about Trixie (which remained empty at the moment)

Twilight looked ready to faint.

Comet, meanwhile, simply grinned. “I actually love this,” he admitted.

The head librarian?

Not so much.

Trixie sat on the stone steps outside the Canterlot Archives, staring at the city skyline bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun. Twilight sat beside her, gently kicking her hooves against the cobblestone. Comet stood nearby, his head buried in a scroll as he double-checked a checklist for the fifth time that day.

A long silence stretched between them before Trixie finally sighed. “Trixie has come to a terrifying realization.”

Twilight turned to her, concern flickering in her eyes. “What is it?”

Trixie hesitated. “Trixie… needs to perform.” She exhaled sharply, as if saying it out loud made it all the more real. “She is not cut out for mundane jobs. No matter how much Trixie tries to convince herself that she can do something else, the truth is—she was born for the stage.”

Twilight gave her a knowing smile. “I… kind of figured that out after the post office incident.”

“Really?” The showmare asked.

Twilight’s expression softened. “Honestly? I had a feeling you’d come to this conclusion. I was actually thinking the same thing.”

Trixie blinked. “You were?”

Twilight nodded. “You were miserable at every job because none of them let you do what you do best—captivate an audience. You thrive on showmanship, Trixie. No job with routines or rules will ever feel right for you.”

Trixie shifted uncomfortably, rubbing her foreleg. “Maybe. But this is Canterlot. This city is brutal when it comes to entertainment. If you’re not perfect, you’re forgotten.”

Twilight’s ears drooped slightly. She knew Trixie wasn’t exaggerating. The Canterlot entertainment industry was relentless, filled with seasoned professionals who dedicated their lives to honing their craft. A mere traveling magician, no matter how talented, would be scrutinized under an impossibly high standard.

Trixie gave a half-hearted chuckle. “Trixie has never performed here. Not once. She always traveled to smaller towns, where ponies were impressed by illusions, where the standards weren’t as impossible as they are in Canterlot.” She exhaled sharply. “Trixie is… scared.”

Twilight placed a reassuring hoof on her shoulder. “That’s completely normal. But I believe in you, Trixie.”

Trixie glanced at her hesitantly. “…You do?”

Twilight nodded firmly. “I’ve seen you perform before, and I know you can put on an amazing show. You have real talent, Trixie. It’s just about refining it, making sure you’re the best version of yourself.”

Trixie hesitated, but a spark of something—perhaps hope—lit up in her eyes. “Trixie is the best version of herself.”

Comet, who had been listening in silence, chose this moment to groan loudly. “Ughhh.”

The two mares turned to him in confusion.

“What’s wrong with you?” Trixie asked.

Comet dramatically slumped onto a nearby bench. “Do you know how much paperwork is involved in getting approval for a performance in Canterlot’s city center?” He ran a hoof down his face in exhaustion. “The regulations are ridiculous. There are safety permits, noise ordinances, magic usage restrictions, street performance licenses, crowd control forms, fire hazard approvals, and Celestia-forbid if you want to use pyrotechnics! The permits alone will take weeks to process unless we expedite them, and expediting them means filling out even more forms!”

Trixie blinked. “…So?”

Comet pointed at himself. “And guess who has the most bureaucratic knowledge out of all of us?”

Trixie and Twilight looked at each other. Then, as if synchronized, they turned back to him and said in unison:

“You.”

Comet groaned again, flopping backward onto the bench, eyes staring blankly at the sky. “I hate my life.”

Trixie smirked. “Well, then it’s a good thing that the Great and Powerful Trixie has generously bestowed upon you the honor of handling her grand debut’s official paperwork!” She patted his head. “Trixie knows you’ll do splendidly, Prince Paperwork.”

Comet gave her a look that could have curdled milk. Twilight tried—and failed—to suppress a snicker.

Comet sighed, sitting up. “Fine. But if I have to go through the bureaucratic nightmare that is Canterlot’s entertainment permit system, you better put on the greatest show of your life.”

Trixie flipped her mane confidently. “Oh, don’t you worry, dear Comet. Trixie never disappoints.”

Comet muttered under his breath. “We’ll see about that.”

Comet Tail trudged through the grand halls of yet another bureaucratic office, the weight of endless forms pressing down on his very soul. The grand spires of Canterlot’s administration buildings loomed over him like prison walls, each one containing another desk, another official, another requirement that he had somehow overlooked.

Twilight Sparkle and Trixie followed closely behind, watching as their reluctant bureaucratic warrior battled the system. Twilight had long since stopped offering words of encouragement, and Trixie—while endlessly amused at Comet’s suffering—at least had the decency to keep most of her remarks to herself.

Mostly.

“My, my, Comet,” she purred, glancing at the tower of paperwork floating in his magical grasp, “Trixie had no idea you were so dedicated to her cause.”

“I’m not.” Comet didn’t even look at her, his eye twitching slightly. “I just don’t want to hear you whine about it for the rest of my life.”

Trixie gasped in mock offense. “Trixie does not whine! She merely expresses her justified frustrations in a dramatic and engaging manner!”

“Right,” Comet deadpanned.

Twilight sighed, rubbing her temples. “Can we please just get this over with?”

The trio finally arrived at what Comet believed to be the last office. The grand mahogany sign above the door read: Department of Special Event Regulations and Public Performances. The golden letters shimmered in the late afternoon light, promising an end to their ordeal.

Comet took a deep breath, steeled himself, and pushed open the door.

Inside, a tired-looking unicorn mare sat behind a towering desk, barely sparing them a glance as she adjusted her glasses. “Next,” she droned.

Comet stepped forward. “I have here all the required forms for an independent street performance, as per Canterlot city regulations—safety permits, noise ordinances, crowd control waivers, magic restrictions, liability waivers, and a notarized proposal for temporary street occupation.” He placed the stack of papers on her desk with the finality of a gavel striking a judge’s podium. “This should be everything.”

The mare adjusted her glasses and flipped through the documents with practiced efficiency.

“Hmm.” She hummed. Comet held his breath.

Then, with a perfectly neutral expression, she looked up at him and said, “You still need approval from a dozen other offices before we can finalize this request.”

Something inside Comet snapped.

He didn’t scream. He didn’t argue. He didn’t even sigh. He just… stared.

His left eye twitched ever so slightly, his magic gripping the papers just a little too tightly. Trixie and Twilight took an instinctive step back.

The mare continued, blissfully unaware of the storm brewing behind Comet’s vacant expression. “You’ll need to visit the Department of Arcane Performances, the Bureau of Outdoor Spectacles, the Office of Crowd Logistics—”

Comet turned on his hoof and walked out.

Twilight and Trixie exchanged nervous glances before scrambling after him.

Once outside, Comet finally spoke, though his voice was eerily calm. “What time is it?”

Twilight blinked at the sudden question before glancing at the nearest street clock. “It’s nearly six.”

Comet murmured something under his breath.

Trixie tilted her head. “What was that?”

Comet looked up at the castle in the distance, his expression unreadable. Then, turning to the two mares, he simply said, “Meet me in front of Canterlot Castle in half an hour.”

Twilight frowned. “What? Why?”

“Just do it.” And with that, Comet trotted off, leaving a very confused Twilight and a very intrigued Trixie in his wake.

Thirty minutes later, Twilight and Trixie stood before the grand entrance to Canterlot Castle, watching the horizon for any sign of Comet.

“There better be a good reason for this,” Twilight muttered, glancing up at the castle’s towering structure.

Trixie, however, looked downright gleeful. “Oh, Trixie loves a good mystery.” She smirked. “Perhaps Comet has finally snapped and decided to overthrow the government.”

Twilight gave her a flat look. “That’s not what’s happening.”

Trixie shrugged. “Pity.”

Before Twilight could respond, Comet appeared, a wide, almost mischievous grin on his face.

Twilight narrowed her eyes. “Okay, what exactly did you do?”

Instead of answering, Comet merely lifted a hoof and began counting down.

“Three… two… one…”

And then, as if on cue, the royal fanfare rang out across the courtyard.

A Canterlot royal town crier stepped onto the balcony above them, clearing his throat before proclaiming in a booming voice:

“Hear ye! Hear ye! By Royal Decree of Her Majesty Princess Celestia, the individual known as Beatrix Lulamoon is hereby exempt from all bureaucratic procedures regarding street performance permits in Canterlot. Furthermore, any and all damages caused by said performance shall be covered by the Crown. This decree takes effect immediately.”

Twilight’s jaw nearly hit the floor. “WHAT?!”

Trixie, meanwhile, looked downright smug. “Well, well, well,” she purred.

Twilight spun on Comet. “YOU WENT TO CELESTIA ABOUT THIS?!”

Comet shrugged, his grin still firmly in place. “Of course I did.”

“Are you insane?! You disturbed the Princess over paperwork?!” Twilight was practically vibrating with disbelief.

“I prefer the term ‘strategic utilization of resources,’” Comet said smugly. “Besides, I rarely ask her for favors, so I figure every now and then, I’m allowed to.”

Twilight sputtered. “But—But you could have handled this on your own!”

“Yes,” Comet admitted. “But that would have required more paperwork, and I hate paperwork.”

Trixie was still processing what just happened. “So… Trixie doesn’t have to do anything now? She can just perform?”

Comet clapped a hoof on her back. “Congratulations. You’re officially Canterlot’s biggest legal loophole.”

Trixie grinned. “The Great and Powerful Trixie always knew she was special.”

Twilight sighed, rubbing her temples. “I cannot believe you did this.”

Comet grinned. “Oh, come on. I did you both a favor. Now, you don’t have to listen to me complain anymore, Trixie doesn’t have to worry about ridiculous regulations, and I don’t have to suffer through another soul-crushing afternoon of bureaucratic torture.”

Trixie smirked. “And Trixie gets an official Royal Decree acknowledging her name. That’s the best part.”

Twilight shook her head, groaning. “You’re impossible.”

Comet shrugged. “You’re welcome.”

With her cart hitched tightly to her back, Trixie pulled with all her might, hauling it through the cobblestone streets of Canterlot. The grand towers of the capital loomed above her, the golden hues of sunset painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. The familiar weight of her belongings pressed against her shoulders, but she hardly noticed. The anticipation, the nerves, the thrill of what she was about to do kept her moving forward.

This was it. Her moment.

Reaching the Canterlot Plaza, she took a deep breath. The city center was bustling with ponies—nobles, merchants, tourists, and everyday folk, all going about their business. But soon, all of them would have their eyes on her.

Unhitching her cart, she stomped a hoof dramatically against the cobblestone. With a flick of her magic, her signature fireworks burst into the sky—bright blues and dazzling silvers forming the shape of her cutie mark.

Ponies turned their heads. Conversations slowed. A small crowd began to gather.

Trixie smirked. Showtime.

“Citizens of Canterlot!” she declared, rearing onto her hind legs. “Prepare yourselves for a spectacle unlike anything you’ve ever seen before! Witness the Great and Powerful Trixie as she dazzles, mystifies, and astounds!”

She launched into her performance, summoning bright illusions—a roaring manticore, a towering storm cloud, a blazing phoenix made of shimmering lights. She weaved between them gracefully, her cape billowing behind her.

“And behold!” she continued, her voice grand and exaggerated. “For I, the most skilled unicorn in all of Equestria, have conquered foes far beyond the reach of mere mortals! I have faced Ursa Majors, battled terrifying sorcerers, and performed feats of magic so unfathomable that even the greatest scholars of Celestia’s court would weep in envy!”

At first, her words earned intrigued glances, but then… something started to shift.

A few ponies in the crowd exchanged unimpressed looks. Others raised skeptical brows. Some even scoffed, whispering among themselves.

They’re losing interest…

Trixie’s stomach twisted.

Her fireworks—once mesmerizing—now barely held their attention. The grandeur of her illusions faded behind rolling eyes and murmured disapproval.

This isn’t working.

For the first time in her life, Trixie felt small on stage.

They’re Canterlot ponies, she realized. They’ve seen real sorcerers, real scholars. They know what true magical power looks like.

Her usual boasting—so effective in small towns—felt hollow here.

She hesitated.

Then, for the first time in a long time, she listened to herself.

Who am I trying to impress?

She took a slow breath. The swirling illusions around her faded, replaced by the gentle glow of a single spell—soft, warm, inviting.

And then, in a quiet voice—one that didn’t belong to the “Great and Powerful” Trixie, but simply to her—she spoke.

“…I’m not as powerful as I make myself seem.”

The crowd quieted.

Ponies blinked in surprise, their murmurs fading.

Twilight and Comet—watching from the back—straightened up, their ears twitching at the sudden shift in tone.

Trixie continued, her voice steady but uncharacteristically real.

“When I was a filly, magic never came easy to me. I struggled with spells that my classmates mastered in days. I wasn’t strong, I wasn’t gifted… and I wasn’t special.”

A few foals in the audience tilted their heads, drawn in. A couple of older ponies nodded, as if remembering their own struggles.

“But there was one thing I was good at.”

With a wave of her hoof, a shimmer of light filled the plaza. Gentle illusions—soft blues and purples—formed into shapes of her past. A small filly version of herself, struggling to lift objects with her horn. A classroom of other foals laughing. And then, that same filly discovering something new—illusion magic.

“I found my talent in tricks, in illusions. Not in power, not in raw magical strength—but in making ponies believe in something wonderful. In giving them a show.”

The crowd was silent now, fully engaged.

“But then,” she continued, the illusion shifting, “I got a rude wake-up call.”

An image of Ponyville’s town square appeared. A single unicorn—a stallion with a golden coat and a starry cutie mark—stood before her, exposing her illusions for what they were.

“I told a story too grand. I claimed a power I didn’t have. And in an instant, I lost everything.”

Trixie swallowed the lump in her throat.

Twilight’s ears flattened. Comet’s expression was unreadable.

Trixie paused, her heart pounding. She had never admitted this aloud before.

“I didn’t know what to do after that. I was lost. I left town with no direction, no purpose, no idea who I really was.”

The crowd was utterly silent now.

“And then… I ran into the very same pony who ruined my life.”

She didn’t say his name. She didn’t have to.

“Or at least… I thought he ruined my life. But in the end… it wasn’t him who gave me a second chance. It was her.”

She glanced toward Twilight—who was staring at her with wide eyes—and then at Comet, who looked unusually thoughtful.

“I wasn’t easy to trust,” she admitted. “One of them believed in me from the start. The other… took much longer.” She let out a small chuckle. “In fact, I think he still doesn’t trust me all that much.”

Comet’s lips twitched, just slightly.

“But even so… even if I’m not the strongest unicorn in Equestria, even if I’m not the most powerful, or the most brilliant… I know one thing for certain.”

She stood tall, her voice clear.

“I am still a performer. And no matter what happens, I will always be a performer.”

With a final flick of her magic, the sky above exploded in a true display of artistry—not just fireworks, not just bright lights, but stories woven in the air.

Ponies watched in awe as shimmering illusions took shape: a young filly discovering her talent, a lonely traveler finding friends, a fallen performer rising again.

And then…

Applause.

Thunderous, resounding applause.

Trixie felt it. That warmth, that spark—the feeling of being admired, of being seen.

She had performed from the heart, and they had felt it.

She closed her eyes, breathing it in.

This. This was why she did it.

As the cheers continued, Trixie chanced a look at Comet and Twilight.

Twilight was wiping at her eyes, a small, proud smile on her face. Comet, for once, wasn’t wearing his usual look of exasperation.

Instead, his expression had softened.

Just a little.

And when he met her gaze, he didn’t roll his eyes.

Instead, he nodded.

Trixie felt her chest tighten.

She didn’t say it out loud.

But in that moment, she knew.

She had earned his respect.

But then, the cheering softened. A hush spread through the crowd, whispers rippling outward. Ponies turned their gazes skyward, eyes widening in awe.

Trixie followed their stares—just in time to see the darkened sky shift, the stars themselves seeming to part. A shadowed silhouette, illuminated by the silver glow of the moon, descended with silent grace. The very air around her grew cooler, tinged with the quiet reverence of the night.

Princess Luna had arrived.

The midnight alicorn touched down before the stage, her deep blue wings folding at her sides. Her starry mane billowed like the endless cosmos, her cyan eyes locking onto Trixie with an unreadable expression. The crowd fell completely silent, bowing before their princess.

Trixie, still catching her breath, felt her stomach twist. Why is she here?

Luna took a step forward, her voice carrying the weight of authority yet laced with something softer—something curious.

“Well done, Trixie Lulamoon,” she said.

Trixie’s mouth went dry. “Y-You know my name?”

Luna’s gaze remained steady. “Of course. I have been watching thee for some time now.”

Trixie blinked, ears flicking back. The weight of those words settled on her. Watching me?

Luna continued. “Since the day thy illusions were unmasked in Ponyville, I have observed thy journey. I have seen thee struggle, fall, and rise again. And tonight, I saw thee perform not just with magic, but with heart.”

Trixie swallowed, her throat tight. The idea that a princess—Princess Luna of all ponies—had been watching her all this time sent a shiver down her spine.

Luna stepped closer, lowering her voice so only Trixie could hear. “I wish to speak with thee. Privately.”

Trixie’s ears perked up. “P-Privately?”

“In my personal chambers. Tonight.”

Trixie’s heartbeat quickened. A private audience with Princess Luna? Why? What could she possibly want with her?

For a moment, she considered refusing—she wasn’t ready for this—but when she looked into Luna’s eyes, she saw no judgment, no condescension. Only something… thoughtful.

She hesitated, then nodded. “O-Of course, Your Highness.”

Luna gave a small, satisfied nod before turning toward the crowd. “Enjoy the rest of thy evening, my subjects,” she said, her voice regal yet warm. Then, with a final glance at Trixie, she spread her wings and lifted into the night sky, vanishing into the stars.

The moment she was gone, the murmurs erupted.

“Trixie’s meeting with Princess Luna?”
“What could she want with her?”
“This is huge!”

Trixie barely heard any of it. She was still frozen in place, the realization sinking in.

Luna had seen her struggle. Had been watching her. And now, she wanted to speak with her… alone.

Trixie wasn’t sure whether to be honored or terrified.

As she made her way toward Canterlot Castle, Twilight walked beside her, her eyes gleaming with excitement. “Trixie, do you realize what just happened? Princess Luna wants to speak with you! Personally! This is huge!”

Trixie bit her lip, her confidence wavering. “Or maybe I’m in trouble.”

Twilight scoffed. “Trouble? For what? For being honest? For putting on the best performance I’ve ever seen you do?” She nudged Trixie playfully. “Come on, this is good news.”

Trixie exhaled, glancing at the grand towers of the castle looming ahead. “I… I just don’t understand why she cares. I’m nobody. Just a traveling magician with a reputation that’s barely better than dirt.”

Twilight shook her head. “That’s not true. And I think Luna sees something in you that you don’t even see in yourself.”

Trixie frowned. “And what’s that?”

Twilight smiled softly. “Potential.”

Trixie blinked.

Potential.

Somehow, the word left her more nervous than before.

They finally reached the castle’s main gate, where two royal guards stood at attention. Trixie hesitated, shifting on her hooves. This is real. This is happening.

Before she could spiral further, a voice spoke up behind her.

“Good luck.”

Trixie turned sharply.

Comet Tail stood a few steps behind, his usual aloofness slightly cracked. His expression was neutral, but there was something different about it. Something almost… warm.

Trixie’s mouth opened slightly, shocked by the unexpected gesture. Comet had never been the encouraging type—not toward her, at least.

For a second, she considered making some witty remark, something to keep things light. But… she didn’t. Instead, she swallowed thickly and gave him a small, genuine nod.

“…Thanks.”

Comet said nothing more, but his nod in return spoke volumes.

The guards stepped forward, motioning for her to follow.

Trixie inhaled sharply and took a step inside the castle. The massive doors closed behind her, muffling the sounds of the city.

She was led through the winding corridors of Canterlot Castle, the lavish halls illuminated by the dim glow of enchanted lanterns. The farther she walked, the quieter everything became, the grand halls turning into smaller, more private corridors.

Finally, the guards stopped before a set of ornate double doors.

“The princess is expecting you,” one of them said before stepping aside.

Trixie stood there, staring at the doors.

Her hooves felt glued to the floor.

This was it.

Whatever Princess Luna wanted from her—whatever she saw in her—Trixie was about to find out.

With one last deep breath, she stepped forward and pushed the doors open.

Luna stood at the far end of the room, gazing out the window at the night sky.

She turned at the sound of Trixie’s entrance, her expression unreadable.

The doors closed behind her with a soft click.

The room was dimly lit, illuminated only by the soft glow of enchanted blue lanterns. The air carried a faint scent of old parchment and moonflowers, the kind of scent that whispered of ancient wisdom and quiet solitude. The chamber itself was grand, yet oddly intimate—deep blue tapestries adorned the walls, and a massive telescope stood by an arched window, pointed toward the endless expanse of stars.

At the far end of the room, Princess Luna stood with her back to Trixie, gazing at the night sky through the open balcony doors. Her cosmic mane billowed in an unseen wind, her figure bathed in silver moonlight. She was utterly still, save for the slow rise and fall of her chest.

For a long moment, neither spoke.

Trixie shifted on her hooves, unsure of what to do. She was used to performing, used to filling silence with grand words, but now… she felt small. Insignificant.

Finally, Luna turned.

Her piercing cyan eyes met Trixie’s, and in them, Trixie saw something unexpected—not judgment, nor pity, but something deeper. Something… familiar.

“We have been watching thee for some time, Trixie Lulamoon.”

The way she said it sent a shiver down Trixie’s spine. There was weight behind those words.

“Not merely from afar,” Luna continued, stepping toward her. “But through thy dreams.”

Trixie stiffened. “My… dreams?”

Luna nodded. “Ever since thou departed Ponyville, we have seen the burdens thou dost carry. The nights spent doubting thyself, questioning thy worth. The memories of thy past failures, replaying like echoes in the dark.” She paused, her gaze softening. “We have seen thy pain, Trixie. And we understand it.”

Trixie swallowed. “You… understand?”

Luna looked toward the stars again. “When We were young, Our sister and We were not as thou seest us now. We were not born into godhood, nor did We inherit perfection. We were sent into this realm, given bodies of flesh and bone by Faust, the All-Mother. And We… struggled.”

Trixie blinked. She had never heard this before.

Luna’s voice grew distant, as if she were speaking not to Trixie, but to a memory. “Celestia’s magic was radiant, brilliant. It came as naturally to her as breathing. She mastered spells with ease, her presence shone like the dawn itself.” Luna exhaled slowly. “And We… We were not the same.”

Trixie’s ears perked up.

“We were lesser,” Luna murmured. “Or so We believed. Our magic was wilder, darker, more untamed. We did not wield light with ease, nor did We bask in the admiration of Our subjects. Our sister… outshone us in every way.”

A flicker of emotion passed through Luna’s expression, something deep and old.

“And so, We resented her.”

Trixie said nothing. She only listened.

“Our feelings festered,” Luna continued. “We allowed our bitterness to grow, feeding upon it, letting it shape us into something monstrous. And in the end… We fell. We gave ourselves to the darkness, to the power that promised to make us more.”

Trixie knew what came next. Everypony did.

Nightmare Moon. The fallen princess. The sister who turned against her own blood.

Luna met Trixie’s eyes again. “Our sister, Celestia, gave us a second chance. She believed in us, even when We did not believe in Ourselves. And so, We were able to rise again.”

A heavy silence settled between them.

And then, Luna took another step forward.

“Trixie Lulamoon,” she said, her voice lower, more personal. “We have watched thee. We have seen thee struggle, seen thee falter, seen thee wrestle with the weight of inferiority.” Her expression softened. “Thou art not so different from Us.”

Trixie’s breath caught in her throat.

She wanted to deny it. To say she was nothing like Luna.

But she couldn’t.

Because deep down, she knew it was true.

Luna took another step closer. “Our sister has long encouraged Us to take on a student. To guide somepony as she has guided so many. But We have never felt the call.” She exhaled, shaking her head. “The skilled pupils from Celestia’s school… they were impressive, yes. But We never felt a connection with them. We never saw ourselves in them.”

Luna’s gaze was steady now, unwavering.

“But in thee, Trixie… We do.”

Trixie’s ears flicked, her eyes widening.

Luna drew herself up, her regal poise returning. “Tonight, thou hast taken the first step toward true strength—not through illusion, not through empty words, but through honesty.” She tilted her head slightly. “Only now that thou hast faced thyself—only now that thou hast admitted thy faults—can We offer thee this.”

She took a deep breath.

“Become Our personal protégé.”

The words hung in the air, thick with meaning.

Trixie’s heart pounded. She opened her mouth. Closed it.

This was insane.

Princess Luna was offering her, Trixie Lulamoon, the chance to be her personal student?

She wasn’t like Comet Tail or Twilight Sparkle. She wasn’t some gifted mage from Celestia’s school. She was just Trixie. A showmare, a traveler, a pony who barely knew what direction her life was going.

And yet…

Something deep inside her stirred.

Luna watched her expectantly, but not impatiently. She would not force an answer.

This was Trixie’s choice.

Her breath hitched.

She exhaled slowly.

And then opened her mouth to give the answer.

The sun was just beginning to rise over Canterlot, casting golden hues across the marble towers and domes. A soft morning breeze carried the scent of fresh blossoms from the royal gardens, mingling with the excitement thrumming in the air. The courtyard below the castle balcony was packed with ponies, murmuring in anticipation.

Then, with a triumphant blast of royal fanfare, the crowd fell silent.

Princess Luna stepped forward onto the grand balcony, her regal form framed by flowing sapphire banners bearing her crescent-moon insignia. Beside her stood Trixie Lulamoon, stiff as a board, her heart pounding in her chest.

She swallowed hard, her gaze flickering across the sea of ponies below. She had performed in front of crowds before—many times, in fact—but never like this. Never with this kind of weight behind it.

Luna raised a hoof, and the murmuring ceased. Her voice, clear and commanding, rang across the courtyard.

“Citizens of Equestria! We have gathered thee here today to witness a momentous occasion.”

Trixie held her breath as Luna’s wings extended, her ethereal mane flowing like a river of stars.

“For many moons, we have sought a student—not simply one of great magical skill, but one whose spirit and determination mirror our own.” She glanced at Trixie, her expression unreadable, before turning back to the crowd. “And now, at long last, we have found her.”

Trixie stiffened as Luna gestured toward her with a wing.

“Mares and gentlecolts, we present to thee—our personal protégé… Trixie Lulamoon!”

For a single, heart-stopping second, there was silence.

And then—cheers.

Loud, thunderous cheers erupted from the crowd below, accompanied by stomping hooves and whistles of approval. Banners waved in the air, and ponies smiled up at her with admiration. Trixie’s ears flicked as she caught snippets of conversation:

“A student of Princess Luna? That’s amazing!”

“I always knew she had potential.”

Trixie felt lightheaded. Was this real? Did this actually happen?

Then she saw them.

At the edge of the crowd, standing slightly apart from the others, were two familiar ponies.

Comet Tail and Twilight Sparkle.

Trixie’s breath caught in her throat.

Twilight was beaming, clapping her hooves together in genuine excitement. And beside her, Comet Tail… smiling.

Not his usual half-smirk, not an exasperated sigh hidden behind an eye roll—he was actually smiling at her.

Something warm and unfamiliar bloomed in Trixie’s chest.

For the first time, the cheers of the crowd faded into the background. Their admiration was nice, sure—but this? Them? That meant more than she ever expected.

Trixie blinked rapidly, forcing down the sudden rush of emotion. She straightened her posture, puffed out her chest, and lifted her chin with all the pride she could muster. She was still Trixie, after all.

Down below, Comet Tail exhaled through his nose and shook his head. “Alright, fine,” he muttered, just loud enough for Twilight to hear. “Maybe she’s not that bad.”

Twilight giggled, giving him a playful nudge. “See? I told you.”

Comet sighed dramatically, but the corner of his mouth quirked up in amusement.

Twilight, still smiling, wrapped a hoof around his shoulders and leaned against him. “I’m just happy you finally realized it.”

Comet glanced at her, his expression softening. Then, with a resigned chuckle, he rested his head lightly against hers. “Yeah… me too.”

Trixie, still watching from the balcony, felt something deep inside her settle.

She had spent so long chasing admiration, trying to prove herself to everypony.

But now…

Now she mattered to the right ones.

With a slow, steady breath, she turned back to the crowd, standing tall beside her new mentor.

She was Trixie Lulamoon, personal protégé of Princess Luna.

And for the first time in her life—truly—she belonged.

Author's Note

Needless to say that there won't be the magic duel episode. See you in the next chapter.