Return to Cloudsdale Saga: All According to Planby TheFailedBronyChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 1Life rarely go as planed for every-pony. “Oh My Gosh!” “Oh My Gosh!” “Oh My Gosh!” screamed a rainbow pegasus with her face slammed into a brightly colored poster outside Sugarcube Corner. Two earth ponies stood next to her, and watched with mild interest. One tan like the earth she worked & the other a hot pink. Two unicorns were also surprised by the pegasus's outburst. One looking interested and curious. The other ,more groomed, unicorn looked aghast. “What, pray tell all this commotion over?” Rainbow Dash responded quickly by thrusting a too dirty for Rarity's liking poster into the unicorn's once spotless face. Rarity desperately tried to shake off the new source of filth stuck on her horn while Rainbow Dash continued with excitement crammed into every word. “The Wonderbolt's , Ponyville, TODAY!” “Well, technically tonight... still” “The Wonderbolts, Ponyville, TONIGHT!” “They're putting on a show.” “Ain't that something. We get to finally take part in one of them shows you keep on about”, Pinkie Pie head pops in from the side. “Silly, we are already part of a show.” “Come again?” Twilight removed the poster from Rarity’s horn, and proceed to read it. “Looks like todays checklist just grew”, Twilight said followed with a giggle. “Even more if you count telling Fluttershy.” A rainbow jet of flame roared between the ponies as Rainbow Dash vanished from sight, as her friends look confusingly into the direction the trail went. Soon a second appeared bringing back Rainbow Dash with a smug, confident grin. “Done” Fluttershy, a grounded yellow pegasus, stared complexed out her open door as her friend had vanished into a self made dust cloud. Her cottage was still under the morning's silence with her array of animals still asleep. “Well thats just wonderful news”, the shy mare whispered to her pet bunny Angel as she closed the door. Like most of Fluttershy's animals Angel couldn't be understood by others, but most would likely have picked up bunny's disinterest. Maybe was the rolling eyes. “SMACK!” erupted a sound on the house's door as Fluttershy sprang airborne for the first time all morning when some pony or thing had crashed into it. A “KNOCK” “KNOCK” “KNOCK” soon followed as the damaged door creaked open. The timid pegasus coward under the closest furniture’s shadow all the while wondering why shy never took up Filthy Rich's offer on extra solid doors guarantied to keep anything unwanted out. “But it could also keep wanted things out”, she had thought back then. On the door's other side a strange blond maned pony wearing her mailbag almost as crocked as her eyes. Fluttershy slowly removed her self from the stools shadow, and quietly squeaked, “yes”. “Here's Tuesday's mail”, said the derpy eyed pony thrusting a letter into Fluttershy's hooves. The mail mare seemed to have no interest in the pegasus's odd, shy behavior, or maybe was not even aware it was strange. “Its... umm Friday” The mail mare looked perplexed for a second, then shrugged her shoulders and flew away. Her path changing every couple of seconds, along with what angle she flew. Fluttershy opened the letter and read it quickly. Left to right, left to right, left to right her eyes scrolled down the page; quickly reaching the end. The letter feel to the ground as Fluttershy let out a gasp. “Today! This is bad. No, great.” “I'm late, for a very important date,” said the panicked mare trotting back and forward blurting out various thoughts aloud to herself; and Angel. “Its too sudden.” Yet its been so long” “What if I disappoint” “Disappoint?!” “Disappoint... disappointing Dash “Oh, no I almost forgot!” She quickly stopped and stared into Angel's eyes seeking some form, any form of consolidation. “Do you think Rainbow Dash will be mad?” “Do you?” The bunny eye's rolled. “What in tarnation holden up Fluttershy?” asked Apple Jack. “Ah, no problem. Probable had to groom some chickens”, replied the giddy hovering pegasus. “Groom what now.” “They're Here!” “We can see”, replied Twilight. “Along with half of Ponyville.” More than half to be precise as Ponyville's town square was filled with cheering and confetti for the 3rd time that week. Most of the town's inhabitants had gathered in the town's center circle. Mayor Mare was greeting the newly arrived pegasi before speaking to the growing herd of onlookers. “Ladies and gentle colts. Its my honor to proudly introduce the Wonderbolts!” said Mayor Mare as she paused for the crowd's cheer. “Tonight, like you've all heard, they will do us the honor of a Moonlight. Firework Stunt show.” The crowd gave a thunderous stomping ovation filed with cheers, and a very distinct, “ahh yeah”, from some pony in the back. “And joining them today, for the 1st time in Ponyville, Commander Bold.” A tall colt with a crimson mane flew forward onto the stage to give a slight bow of his head before the crowd as his worn & torn black cape that concealed his cutie mark. Only revealing parts when it drifted in flight. “BOLD. He's HERE!” gasped Rainbow Dash as she did back-flips in the air screaming ,“yes”. “Who?” asked Rarity. “Commander Talon Bold...”, began Twilight as she quoted another memorized text book. “is the current pegasus commander of the Wonderbolts. Appointed by Celestia, he is in charge of training, instructing, race scheduling, holiday event planing, flight-ography, recruiting, charitable auctions...” “Recruiting”, repeated Rainbow Dash as she froze mid-air with a lightbulb lighting over head; held there by Pinkie Pie. “That's it”, said the pegasus before disappearing in a bolt of speed. “Oh, so he's their manager.” “No, no, no. To be specific he's.... Wait, where's Rainbow Dash?” Mayor Mare totted down the stage's steps with Talon behind her. “I know you are quite busy preparing for the show. You don't have to take up an old Mayor's request.” “I have faith in them, and their training. I have too. Regretfully my work keeps me too occupied to witness half their appearances. Amongst other things...” Talon and Mayor Mare reached the bottom of the steps and walked into the designated Wonderbolt's preparation area that was cordoned off. The pegasi were too busy getting ready for the show to even notice them approach. Half were flying in warmup. Others were performing ground exorcises and stretching. A few support staff hoof checked all the shows unicorn made fireworks. “Spitfire. Soarin”, bellowed Talon getting the immediate attention of two pegasi. The pair bolted in front of their commander. One an orange fire maned mare, and the other a dark blue maned colt. Most of their appearance hidden under spotlessly maintained Wonderbolt's uniforms. They stood straight and at attention. All the while not making direct eye contact. “Are all preparations for todays show underway?” “Yes, commander sir.” replied Soarin & Spitfire; though Spitfire hid a slight grin. Their commander let out a sigh shaking his head. “Have I really been away that long? I've told you time and again.” “Leave it at just Talon.” A brief pause followed where the pair looked up at their commander finally. Soarin, however had a look filled with some sort of disappointment. “More importantly, what about that southern storm?” “Its coarse was altered according to instructions. It will no longer interrupt our performance. Talon, sir.” said the pegasi. Spitfire again had a slight grin while Soarin got more gloomy. Talon rolled his eyes before continuing. “Good, that storm had nasty tailwinds that would hinder you & the audience.” “Continue as scheduled.” “Dismissed” With that order, the pair trotted off to continue practice & preparation. However when out of Talon's sight Spitfire hit Soarin on the shoulder and whispered ,“Told you he would be.” “ you owe me 2 bits.” Talon attention returned to the Mayor as he started to trot away from the preparation area. Mayor Mare slowly followed before taking lead. “As you can see, all is under control and on schedule”, began Bold. “So I wouldn't quite enjoy that tour you offered.” “I've heard well of this town.” “Perfect”, whispered a certain rainbow pegasus hiding on a roof above. “This is my chance. With my speed, agility, and guts I can ”, she gasped with a joyous grin. “Finally join the Wonderbolts.” “But what to do, what to do?” she asked as she fell flat onto the roof. “THATS IT!” “There can be only one way”, she continued as she soared back into the sky. All the while, Dash was unaware her timid friend was at that very moment coming up with her own plan for her own problem, and though far apart they spoke together in unison. “First, I'll impress them with my speed, by saving an out of control carriage.” “First I'll buy some nice, decorative flowers.” “Second, I'll display my agility by stopping a swarm of... of... Parasprites.” “Then I'll pick up a lovely dress from Rarity” “Third I'll show my guts & skills as a pegasus by diverting a ravaging storm.” “Finally, I'll make sure to be their exactly, on, time.” “Nothing” “possible” “wrong.” “can” “go” Chapter 2“And here is Ponyville's lovely cliff side.” “Interesting location for an earth pony town. So very steep...” Mayor Mare was continuing her tour for Talon Bold; the pegasus commander of the Wonderbolts. They duo was mostly alone with most of Ponyville at the pre-show appearance. One pegasus did watch them closely however. “Finally, they're here”, whispered Rainbow Dash from here hiding spot atop Sudden-drop hill. “Now, just have to wait for some pony to go hurling uncontrollable towards the cliffside.” “Again.” The Pegasus began her wait for some unfortunate pony. “Just got to wait” She waited. “A little bit more” and waited “A little...” and waited... “Oh for Pete's sake,” “where is every pony?” “Oh, right the air show....” The pegasus stared at her recent hoof drawn watch. “Its already been,” gasp. “5 MINUTES.” “Why can't some pony just go hurling towards their near doom already?” Suddenly, a cart came to a quick safe stop atop the hill. Rainbow Dash noticed the earth pony owner of Flower & Soil had just parked his cart outside. The cart filled with todays stock of freshly picked goods. The business savvy colt, unconcerned with frivolous pegasi air shows, went inside to record stock. He wasn't the kind of pony to ever go tumbling down Sudden-drop. His cart however... With a mischievous grin Dash trotted over to the defenseless cart. “Oh no, an out of control cart”, she said softly while giving the cart a slight kick. It didn't budge. “I said, oh no an out of control cart.” The cart didn't budge with the second, more solid, kick. Rainbow Dash glared down at the cart that dared challenge the Dash, snorted and... “I s a i d...” A dust trail shot down Sudden-drop hill leaving in its way a fragrant scent. Then, a flash. A rainbow bolt of color soared towards the cart. What head start Rainbow Dash had given vanished. They were neck and wheel. Rainbow shot the inanimate object a glance of victory before she pulled ahead, slammed her hooves down, and ground the cart to a instant halt right as they reached the hill's ramped end. Unfortunately for Rainbow Dash, though the cart had stopped, its cargo hadn't. Flowers pulled by their continuing momentum flew into the sky, and rained down upon the two just now onlooking ponies. The soil's flight however was much shorter lived. It soon slammed into an unfortunate pegasus; submerging her. “An interesting... welcome”, said Talon below Sudden-drop hill's infamous ramp as he stared up at the falling flower petals. “Oh, must have just been another cart crashing off Sudden-drop hill,” said Mayor Mare nonchalantly. “Another!?, some pony could have been hurt.” “oOoh...” mumbled the dirt pile. “Why in the name of Celestia have such road?” asked Talon. “Well, that's quite easy to explain. You see....” began Mayor Mare voice as it echoed into the distance for Rainbow Dash. However, hoofs could be heard coming closer as Rainbow Dash started raising herself from the dirt restraints while trying to push away the image in her head of Pinkie Pie bringing up the fact Dash had soiled herself. However the pony that arrived was not concerned over such trivial humor. “You crash it, you buy it,” “Your sold out!”, echoed Fluttershy's voice. “but its still so early.” The earth pony grinned as he counted his pile of coins again. “I'm afraid today's flower stock just flew off the shelves.” “Well, rolled.” Everyfree Forest stretched on before an annoyed pegasus. Her frustration easing what fears she had as she entered its gloomy depths. Leafless branches seemingly reaching out to grab her. Shady eyes glanced from the darkness, but Rainbow kept on moving as it was the only place to find what she was looking for. “Great, 1st I fail to even be seen by Talon, and now I have to miss the next several Wonderbolts shows.” “Stupid flowers.” Rainbow Dash moved further into the dark forest diligently looking for her prey. “But it doesn't matter. After all the one and only Rainbow Dash will soon fly with them,” She searched high and low for the winged menace, but their cute large eyes were no where to be seen. Ponyville's fortune deepened on Rainbow's misfortune at finding the creatures. “Not here either,” exasperated the mare. Then she heard it. The distinct flapping of thousands of tiny wings. Wasting no time Dash jolted towards the source. Tree branch after tree branch slammed her in the face. Her mane becoming what rarity would call a travesty. but that didn't slow her in the slightest until she was flung into an open field. A field, stretching into the distance filled with glowing flowers & Everfree forest moths. The pegasus's expression turned sour, “ great. Just great.” “Where in Equestria a swarming plague when I need one!”, Dash yelled as she took flight to vent her frustration before quickly falling back to the ground depression hit, “Fluttershy just walked in and found one. What do I find,” “MOTHS!” “How am I supposed to work with that?” Meanwhile, back in Ponyville, Twilight and Apple Jack trotted back through the main entrance. Pinkie Pie & Rarity came into view as they met back up with Twilight & Apple Jack. “Where in Equestria is Rainbow Dash, she was the one sooo exited for the Wonderbolt's coming” “Your guess as good as mine sugar cube.” “Well, she's certainly not at Fluttershy's ,or Fluttershy for that matter”, Rarity informed Twilight. “Great, now we have two missing pegasi.” “Oh oh oh, maybe today's lesson we learn is how to play hide and seek,” Pinkie Pie said while hopping circles around every pony else. “Fluttershy's always been good at hiding” “Pinkie, lessons in friendship don't happen every day.” “I know, its every episode.” An awkward post Pinkie pause followed. “... Anyyy wayyy....”, Twilight began with a perplexed look. “The only thing we need to learn is the whereabouts of Rainbow Dash, “ “and apparently Flutterhy.” “Still, nothing bad happened today, so there's nothing to worry about...” “RUN!”, screamed small group of ponies who came charging into town screaming in panic. Their clothes being in shambles to Rarity's dismay. One tripped in front of Twilight and company. “There coming. There coming”, whispered the fallen pony. “The swarm, it's coming” “Parasprites, AGAIN”, Twilight jumping into action. No. Not Parasprites.” THEN WHAT?!” “m,... mo... moths...” “Moths, its only moths!” “NOTHING!”, yelled the once fallen pony as sprang up. “They ate the literal clothes off our backs, along with all my freshly bought Canterlott fabricss.” “NO!”screamed Rarity. “THIS CRIME AGAINST FASHION SHALL NOT GO UNPUNISHED” “Now's my chance.” And it was her chance. With luck, determination, and some bait borrowed from Rarity's fabric collection, Rainbow Dash had lured a swarm of Everfree forest moths into Ponyville. Any fabric or cloth vanished when they past over. Now, they were heading for Ponyville's shopping district. “Lets see, what did AJ say about herding...” “ahh that right; a firm yet gently push from all sides, then turn-um”. “Sounds easy enough.” With screaming speed Rainbow dash spiraled around the mass of moths knocking everyone in her way back into the swarm. However, for every moth knocked into place two more popped out. Again and again Dash circled and whacked, but the the swarm just grew and grew. A town full of cloth proved too alluring to the swarm of moths. “Fine, time for some more firm”, gasped Dash. Rainbow Dash then soared above the moth swarm in preparation. “ You guys hungry, then taste some Dash!”, she yelled when she flying kicked her way into the grey mass. “Take some of these”, screamed the voice inside the swarm. “Want some more?, how bought these.” “And a pair of these” “and some more of ...” BAM! The moth swarm went silent, with only the soft beat of their wings as they flew closer to the shopping district. Soon they left the “Welcome to Ponyville sign” behind. The sign with a recently added pegasus to its design. “But mommy, I don't want read anymore”, said Rainbow Dash with her eyes spinning and her head smashed through the sign. “And here is Ponyville's shopping district”, announced Mayor Mare. “recently remodeled.” “hmm”, mumbled Talon Bold as they entered the new section of town. A falcon's cah roared from the sky as the bird soared down to Talon, and landed on his front right hoof. A message was bound to its leg. Talon removed and read the letter as Mayor Mare, and any ponies too busy for the air show, stared. “Good, job”, Talon said to the proud falcon before he sent him back, and then noticed the unwanted attention. “My messenger” he explained to surrounding eyes. “Is anything the matter?” asked Mayor Mare with concern over yet another disaster. “It's the storm isn't it? Its course back to Ponyville,” she continued as several ponies gasped. “No. All's on schedule and as planed. Including the storm's new course,” replied Talon as several ponies breathed sighs of relief. “The Wonderbolts should be leaving for their last practice flights as we speak,” “but I can't spend more than another hour with you, unfortunately” “Well thats plenty of time”, boasted the mayor. “As long as nothing goes wrong....” Our two groups had just arrived at that very moment. Twilight and company arrived at the north side, while the cloth devouring swarm the south. The store owning ponies ran to their shops prepared to once again protect their livelihood from a a carnivorous swarm. “We're too late” said Twilight as they rushed towards the menace. “NEVER!”, screamed a strangely enthusiastic Rarity. “We shall stop those fashion fiends” “once, and, FOR ALL!” They never got a chance. Another pony had already stepped forward to deal with the swarm; stepped to the left to be precise. “Why do these things always happen when I'm around”, said Talon Bold now in the swarm's path. Without flinching or loosing sight of the rushing swarm, Talon had removed his black cloak and held it in front of him. His cutie mark of 3 falcon's flying in tight formation being revealed for the first time, while in Ponyville. Talon waved the worn cloth in front of the swarm. Taunting them with every flick of its fabric. Taunting, and alluring them. The moth swarm charged the cloak, only to have it yanked away at the last second by Bold agilely spinning out of their path. Again, and again the swarm lunged at the cloak, only to miss it every time. Faster and faster they charged all the while getting tighter and tighter; till Talon had them charging right were he wanted. “Toro, Toro”, he heard some pink pony scream. Finally Talon released his grip, sending his cloak tumbling in the wind created by the flap of his wings. The swarm kept charging forward, towards their prize as it flew away. Both went flying down the road away from the shopping district. A crowd of shop owning ponies & their customers surrounded Talon and cheered him on. “As Mayor I must offer my deepest thanks to you and your sacrificed cape, surly we must repay...” “No, please don't pay no mind. I already have a pony sowing another new one.” “And unfortunately not every shop was spared. There's one down that road still in their path.” “Hopefully that carousel building lacks any fabric, clothes, or dresses.” A distinct, “NOOO!” could be heard from the back of crowd. “Don't worry Angel, I'm sure Rarity will have a nice dress available today for...” Fluttershy paused as she entered Carousel Boutique, only to find the place in ruins. Well actually the store was fine, but all the rows of dresses were gone with the only few remaining filled with holes. “I'm ru-in-ed”, cried Rarity as she dramatically fell onto her couch cushion, only to be bounced to the floor by its freshly exposed springs. “Oh fiddle sticks,” Fluttershy said before going to comfort Rarity. “No speed, no agility. Great, how am I ever going to impress my way into the Wonderbolts now”, Rainbow Dash depressingly said atop a roof. A tear almost went down her eye, but at that moment she turned and saw a glass window reflection. The pegasus proceeded to pose in front of the make shift mirror. “No, That's loser talk Dash”, she said while showing off her muscles. “A pony as amazing as myself can impress the Wonderbolts commander with only one heroic stunt.” She started strolling in though atop the roof. “However it has to be a rather big stunt. Stopping the run of the mill rouge storm cloud won't do. It has to be something large, dangerous,” “ and flashy.” “Where am I going to find a storm like that at this hou...” Dash paused as she finally took notice of the lighting flashes passing around Ponyville in the distance. Lighting crackled from the massive pitch black clouds. “I can work with that, “ she whispered to herself with a grin. One pegasus still remained depressed as she walked through Ponyville's partially filed streets. Fluttershy sighed. “Rarity won't have dresses for days Angel.” “Now I know I'm going be disappointing.” The rabbit riding on her back, pattered her shoulder. “But wait, punctuality impressive.” she blurted out “If we make it to the cafe on time I'm sure I won't be completely disappointing.” “And that should be easy enough to dooooo.....”, Fluttershy muttered as she looked ahead with the winds finally hitting her. Before her the air had started to screech. Winds blew at unbearable speeds and sent flying parts of trees. The cloud ahead was darker than Nightmare moon, and only lit by its frequent lightning. Attached at its bottom was a howling twister, wider and spinning faster than any Fluttershy had ever seen. Finally, with all her strength and courage she managed to squeak out, “no” Chapter 3“Sweet apple jam! A twisters headin straight for Ponyville”, Apple Jack said through roaring wind. Twilight looked equally concerned about closing storm. Her face growing grave. “Todays storm was supposed to be re-routed”, said Twilight while dropping into a puzzled tone. “And the forecast never called for tornados...” The winds started to roar more while Twilight and Apple Jack braced themselves to avoid being knocked down. Pinkie jumped into the air and let herself be carried away, giggling until she hit the nearest building were she remained pasted to the wall. “Hurry girls, Ponyville in danger”, she said while galloping off to the storm. Apple jack following right behind. Pinkie Pie ,after removing herself from the wall, skipped after them. “nooooooo”, said Fluttershy as she finished her long stretched out, quiet lament near Rarity's dress shop. She turned to Angel. “I can’t make it to the cafe, if there is no cafe?” She prepared to let the flight in the fight or flight response take hold as she raised her wings. “What a pity, lets go.” Angel hopped in front of his master. He gave his master a long, scolding glare. Guilt took hold as Fluttershy slunched down and let out a sigh. “Your right, I can't just run away”, she said with disappointment mixed with fear. The mare took a deep breath, puffing herself up, before continuing. “I guess I'll have too....”, she paused gulping while she stared at the looming disaster. “Stop this.” Fluttershy bent down preparing to leap into flight. Her leg muscles and wings tensed up. She leaped into the air, then she proceeded to crashed back to the ground. Fluttershy's looked behind to find her wings clamped in protest. “Oh my. This is going to be harder than I thought.” The twirling mass of blackened air let out a fearsome roar. Its cloud top erupted bursts of lightning while its creator hovered above the winds reach. Rainbow Dash gave a boastful grin. “Now thats a Wonder-bolting storm. No way Bold will miss this, or me. Rainbow Dash looked over the swirling destruction one more time. “Or is it?” The wind screeched around the pegasus as she spun around the twister. Faster, faster, faster she soared. The cyclone screamed louder, louder, and louder. Faster and faster the two went. “Just”... “about...” “Perf...” “whaohoooooh”, Rainbow Dash yelled as the tornado took the lead in the areal waltz. Dash tumbled inside her creation. Finally with a loud, “nooooo”, she was ejected. Rainbow plummeted uncontrollably towards the ground. “I wish I could be more like Rainbow Dash”, Fluttershy said after failing to breach the air once again. “I just know I would have already stopped this storm, by now.” Fluttershy kicked the ground in frustration. Well, nudged the ground while she missed the falling Rainbow trail across the sky. The town clock rang and sent the startled pegasus cowering to the ground. She let out a gasp. “I'm going to be late and... disappointing.” The shy mare glared at the twister, then at the clock, then back at the twister, and then back to the clock. “No. I. Won't,” she said when her wings sprang open. Fluttershy lifted into the air, soaring as fast as her wings would allow. Four butterflies quickly passed her with ease. Three ponies ran past Ponyville's welcome sign. Pinkie Pie stopped to gaze through the newly added hole. Twilight soon came to a stop at the town's edge as various ran around in panic over the approaching storm. The purple unicorn looking into the approaching disaster. “Its worse than I feared.” “What Twilight?” “The cyclone!!!”, she yelled back trying to force her voice through the suddenly stronger winds. “I thought I could use my magic to stop it, but its grown too large. I can't do it alone, I need a pegasus, or several!” “Shoot, right when those Wonderbolts ain’t due back till sundown.” said Apple Jack. “Ponyville will be blown down before then”, Twilight said while collapsing to the ground in despair. “Were is Rainbow Dash!? Now of all times she decides to go missing” “Silly, she's not missing. Dashie's plummeting right towards us.” said Pinkie Pie while pointing skyward. The mares looked up in just enough time to catch a glimpse of Rainbow Dash before she slammed into a near by store; Pillows r Us. Debris went flying into the air. Apple Jack, Twilight, and Pinkie trotted up to the freshly cratered building. Rainbow Dash laid atop the remains of pillow filled shipping crates. “You happen to have a back up plan?” asked Apply Jack as she noted the stars floating around Rainbow's head. “Daddy, won't you tell me another Wonderbolt story?” Twilight tried to hide her growing frustration from Apple Jack, but still gave a short facehoof. “Well... there is always Fluttershy. Together we can stop the storm.” “Fluttershy? You sure she's up to bucking a twister? Or able?” “There are ways”, Twilight said as her horn radiated magic. “Plenty of ways.” Before Twilight finished, a yellow flash crashed next to them in an explosion of feathers. Small non-existent birds proceeded to fly above Fluttershy's head as she laid on what remained in the discounted but still soft stack. Near by stacks trembled. “Found her”, Pinkie Pie said before stacks of pillows collapsed on Fluttershy; fully submerging her in a plush prison. “That twister chewing through pegasi for breakfast,” said a concerned Apple Jack. “And Ponyville lunch,” said a frustrated Twilight. “Really, Applelusa sounds sooooo much more tasty”, said a giddy Pinkie. Twilight started to pace back and forward while she mumbled aloud to herself. Solution after solution was raised, then quickly dropped. Twilight herself collapsed to the floor. “Where in Equstria a pegasus when you need one!”, Twilight said to no pony in particular. A blond pegasus with a bubble cutie mark flew by. Another crashing sound quickly followed. “Ooh, Ooh, found one”, said Pinkie Pie as she zoomed out of site. “Pinkie, I don't think she....” Twilight stopped mid lecture. “It would be my pleasure to offer any assistance”, said Talon Bold standing before a gaping mouthed Twilight & Apple Jack. “The rouge storm currently too unstable and near to Ponyville to safely handle alone without the risk of collateral damage. I offer my aid and request yours in resolving the emergency at hand Twilight Sparkle, Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie.” Twilight jolted back up on her hooves from surprise, “You know our names?” “Yes. I'm well aware of your exploits,” he said moving closer to the 3 conscious mares. “Now I must ask Celestia's prized pupal if she has any ideas.” Twilight started to calm down as she joyfully mumbled to herself while blushing. “Celestia does talk about me.” “Well...”, said Bold puzzled. “More specifically...” “Not to be impolite yall but,” Apple Jack said while nodding towards the even closer tornado. “We've got bigger apples to pick.” Twilight snapped back into focus, “Right, here what we need to....” “Twilight Sparkle, are you sure about this”, asked Bold as he stood ready to take off into the fierce winds. The roaring monster was only a few minutes from reaching the town. Its size was comparable to the town itself. “Don't worry Mr. Bold, you can trust my plan”, said Twilight as her horn started to glow. “And my magic.” Talon gave a reassuring nod. “One more thing”, he said while looking back at the purple unicorn. “Please leave it at Talon, I hate formalities.” Talon shot off like a rocket. Behind him he left 3 onlooking mares at Ponyville's edge. Twilight waited to play her part. The air had grew dark around Talon when he reached the twister's edge. The winds reducing his speed several fold. He tried desperately to simply stay out of its grasp. “NOW!”, Twilight screamed as magic started to erupt from her horn. Talon Bold had no way of hearing her, but felt her words effects when his speed instantly doubled then tripled. “Blue blazes, what did you do to him?” Apple Jack asked concerned after Talon's wings seemed to burst into flame bright enough to be seen from the ground. “A rocketing wing spell”, explained Twilight. “It will give him the needed thrust to form a counter revolving wind current around the existing one.” “Wait what?,” Talon soared around the twister. His wings leaving a blazing trail in his wake. With each trip his speed grew. Burning trails quickly connected one after the other. Soon one fired mass of twisting wind formed. The second flaming tornado fully enshrouded the first in a scarlet coat. A now fiery, screaming twister charged at Ponyville. Scorching the earth in its wake. “YOU MADE ANOTHER ONE!”, Apple Jack yelled trough the wind before she and Twilight winced. Their eyes remained firmly closed in preparation for the coming pain. Pinkie pulled out Rarity's camera. The bright blazing funnel sped towards town. However, it soon started to slow. Its lunge being stretched out longer and longer while fiery beast grew smaller and smaller. Apple Jack, growing inpatient at her coming doom, opened her eyes to see a burning tornado no larger than Apple Bloom pass right by before fizzling into smoke. “IT WORKED!”, Twilight yelled. “The currents canceled each other out.” “You look awfully surprised it worked?” Apple Jack thought to herself. With a loud thud Talon Bold appeared next to them. He appeared unscathed with the exception of a few soot smears. A section of his mane had an attached flame that Pinkie quickly pinched out. “It appears your wits are as sharp as my reports noted,” Talon said while looking over himself. “Though I could have done without all the singes....” Twilight tried to hide the blush of shame. Saying it will grow back didn't feel appropriate at the current time. Then after a second of thought she looked confused. “Wait, Celestia writes reports on me?” “What, No,” Talon said noticing disappointment on the unicorn's face. “”Why would Celestia send me reports?” “Wait... then who gives you reports on us.” “Oh that,” said Talon. “Maybe report was an improper phrasing. You see I normally receive falcon letters about your adventures in friendship. Ones delivered by one of my messenger falcons. Usually they arrive weekly. However the messages have been coming late. Apparently the falcon I used got injured in some silly race.” “Hold up now. Who exactly sends reports, I mean falcon letters about us?” Apple Jack asked. “Wait, you don't know. She never told you?” A pile of pillows jumped with life as a dizzy pony emerged. She ducked low after receiving unwanted attention from 3 mares and one tall colt. Talon Bold trotted over to , glaring down. He raised his front right hoof, placed it on her head, and proceeded to ruff up the pegasus's mane. “You never told your friends about me?” Talon said with a hurt edge in his voice. “It... It never came up... Dad”, Fluttershy said with a great blush of red as Twilight & Apple Jacks jaws dropped. Talon Bold let out a sigh while he walked out one of the damaged store's 2 new entrances. “If you would excuse us ladies.” said Bold while trotting away. His daughter ran to catch up. “Oh... my... my everything”, Rainbow Dash said after she regained consciousness. She looked around, then bolted to her feet. “WHERE'S BOLD?” Dash asked her friends. “I still have time, I know I do.” “He's on a date”, said Pinkie while hoping around Rainbow Dash. “A DATE! With who? Mare Major.” “No, Flutershy”, Pinkie said while she skipped about and pointed towards Bold. “Wait, what?”, Rainbow Dash said when she saw Fluttershy catch up and walk along side Bold. “FLUTTERSHY!, Wait... what... huh... WHY!” Pinkie stopped hopping right beside Rainbow Dash. “Father daughter bonding.” “Father... daughter... I... huh”, Rainbow Dash fainted once again. Dear Princess Celestia; “Today I learned a good end doesn't justify bad means. “especially if the good end never achieved.” “Ahem.” “I mean, the end never justify's the means.....”
Chapter 1Life rarely go as planed for every-pony. “Oh My Gosh!” “Oh My Gosh!” “Oh My Gosh!” screamed a rainbow pegasus with her face slammed into a brightly colored poster outside Sugarcube Corner. Two earth ponies stood next to her, and watched with mild interest. One tan like the earth she worked & the other a hot pink. Two unicorns were also surprised by the pegasus's outburst. One looking interested and curious. The other ,more groomed, unicorn looked aghast. “What, pray tell all this commotion over?” Rainbow Dash responded quickly by thrusting a too dirty for Rarity's liking poster into the unicorn's once spotless face. Rarity desperately tried to shake off the new source of filth stuck on her horn while Rainbow Dash continued with excitement crammed into every word. “The Wonderbolt's , Ponyville, TODAY!” “Well, technically tonight... still” “The Wonderbolts, Ponyville, TONIGHT!” “They're putting on a show.” “Ain't that something. We get to finally take part in one of them shows you keep on about”, Pinkie Pie head pops in from the side. “Silly, we are already part of a show.” “Come again?” Twilight removed the poster from Rarity’s horn, and proceed to read it. “Looks like todays checklist just grew”, Twilight said followed with a giggle. “Even more if you count telling Fluttershy.” A rainbow jet of flame roared between the ponies as Rainbow Dash vanished from sight, as her friends look confusingly into the direction the trail went. Soon a second appeared bringing back Rainbow Dash with a smug, confident grin. “Done” Fluttershy, a grounded yellow pegasus, stared complexed out her open door as her friend had vanished into a self made dust cloud. Her cottage was still under the morning's silence with her array of animals still asleep. “Well thats just wonderful news”, the shy mare whispered to her pet bunny Angel as she closed the door. Like most of Fluttershy's animals Angel couldn't be understood by others, but most would likely have picked up bunny's disinterest. Maybe was the rolling eyes. “SMACK!” erupted a sound on the house's door as Fluttershy sprang airborne for the first time all morning when some pony or thing had crashed into it. A “KNOCK” “KNOCK” “KNOCK” soon followed as the damaged door creaked open. The timid pegasus coward under the closest furniture’s shadow all the while wondering why shy never took up Filthy Rich's offer on extra solid doors guarantied to keep anything unwanted out. “But it could also keep wanted things out”, she had thought back then. On the door's other side a strange blond maned pony wearing her mailbag almost as crocked as her eyes. Fluttershy slowly removed her self from the stools shadow, and quietly squeaked, “yes”. “Here's Tuesday's mail”, said the derpy eyed pony thrusting a letter into Fluttershy's hooves. The mail mare seemed to have no interest in the pegasus's odd, shy behavior, or maybe was not even aware it was strange. “Its... umm Friday” The mail mare looked perplexed for a second, then shrugged her shoulders and flew away. Her path changing every couple of seconds, along with what angle she flew. Fluttershy opened the letter and read it quickly. Left to right, left to right, left to right her eyes scrolled down the page; quickly reaching the end. The letter feel to the ground as Fluttershy let out a gasp. “Today! This is bad. No, great.” “I'm late, for a very important date,” said the panicked mare trotting back and forward blurting out various thoughts aloud to herself; and Angel. “Its too sudden.” Yet its been so long” “What if I disappoint” “Disappoint?!” “Disappoint... disappointing Dash “Oh, no I almost forgot!” She quickly stopped and stared into Angel's eyes seeking some form, any form of consolidation. “Do you think Rainbow Dash will be mad?” “Do you?” The bunny eye's rolled. “What in tarnation holden up Fluttershy?” asked Apple Jack. “Ah, no problem. Probable had to groom some chickens”, replied the giddy hovering pegasus. “Groom what now.” “They're Here!” “We can see”, replied Twilight. “Along with half of Ponyville.” More than half to be precise as Ponyville's town square was filled with cheering and confetti for the 3rd time that week. Most of the town's inhabitants had gathered in the town's center circle. Mayor Mare was greeting the newly arrived pegasi before speaking to the growing herd of onlookers. “Ladies and gentle colts. Its my honor to proudly introduce the Wonderbolts!” said Mayor Mare as she paused for the crowd's cheer. “Tonight, like you've all heard, they will do us the honor of a Moonlight. Firework Stunt show.” The crowd gave a thunderous stomping ovation filed with cheers, and a very distinct, “ahh yeah”, from some pony in the back. “And joining them today, for the 1st time in Ponyville, Commander Bold.” A tall colt with a crimson mane flew forward onto the stage to give a slight bow of his head before the crowd as his worn & torn black cape that concealed his cutie mark. Only revealing parts when it drifted in flight. “BOLD. He's HERE!” gasped Rainbow Dash as she did back-flips in the air screaming ,“yes”. “Who?” asked Rarity. “Commander Talon Bold...”, began Twilight as she quoted another memorized text book. “is the current pegasus commander of the Wonderbolts. Appointed by Celestia, he is in charge of training, instructing, race scheduling, holiday event planing, flight-ography, recruiting, charitable auctions...” “Recruiting”, repeated Rainbow Dash as she froze mid-air with a lightbulb lighting over head; held there by Pinkie Pie. “That's it”, said the pegasus before disappearing in a bolt of speed. “Oh, so he's their manager.” “No, no, no. To be specific he's.... Wait, where's Rainbow Dash?” Mayor Mare totted down the stage's steps with Talon behind her. “I know you are quite busy preparing for the show. You don't have to take up an old Mayor's request.” “I have faith in them, and their training. I have too. Regretfully my work keeps me too occupied to witness half their appearances. Amongst other things...” Talon and Mayor Mare reached the bottom of the steps and walked into the designated Wonderbolt's preparation area that was cordoned off. The pegasi were too busy getting ready for the show to even notice them approach. Half were flying in warmup. Others were performing ground exorcises and stretching. A few support staff hoof checked all the shows unicorn made fireworks. “Spitfire. Soarin”, bellowed Talon getting the immediate attention of two pegasi. The pair bolted in front of their commander. One an orange fire maned mare, and the other a dark blue maned colt. Most of their appearance hidden under spotlessly maintained Wonderbolt's uniforms. They stood straight and at attention. All the while not making direct eye contact. “Are all preparations for todays show underway?” “Yes, commander sir.” replied Soarin & Spitfire; though Spitfire hid a slight grin. Their commander let out a sigh shaking his head. “Have I really been away that long? I've told you time and again.” “Leave it at just Talon.” A brief pause followed where the pair looked up at their commander finally. Soarin, however had a look filled with some sort of disappointment. “More importantly, what about that southern storm?” “Its coarse was altered according to instructions. It will no longer interrupt our performance. Talon, sir.” said the pegasi. Spitfire again had a slight grin while Soarin got more gloomy. Talon rolled his eyes before continuing. “Good, that storm had nasty tailwinds that would hinder you & the audience.” “Continue as scheduled.” “Dismissed” With that order, the pair trotted off to continue practice & preparation. However when out of Talon's sight Spitfire hit Soarin on the shoulder and whispered ,“Told you he would be.” “ you owe me 2 bits.” Talon attention returned to the Mayor as he started to trot away from the preparation area. Mayor Mare slowly followed before taking lead. “As you can see, all is under control and on schedule”, began Bold. “So I wouldn't quite enjoy that tour you offered.” “I've heard well of this town.” “Perfect”, whispered a certain rainbow pegasus hiding on a roof above. “This is my chance. With my speed, agility, and guts I can ”, she gasped with a joyous grin. “Finally join the Wonderbolts.” “But what to do, what to do?” she asked as she fell flat onto the roof. “THATS IT!” “There can be only one way”, she continued as she soared back into the sky. All the while, Dash was unaware her timid friend was at that very moment coming up with her own plan for her own problem, and though far apart they spoke together in unison. “First, I'll impress them with my speed, by saving an out of control carriage.” “First I'll buy some nice, decorative flowers.” “Second, I'll display my agility by stopping a swarm of... of... Parasprites.” “Then I'll pick up a lovely dress from Rarity” “Third I'll show my guts & skills as a pegasus by diverting a ravaging storm.” “Finally, I'll make sure to be their exactly, on, time.” “Nothing” “possible” “wrong.” “can” “go”
Chapter 2“And here is Ponyville's lovely cliff side.” “Interesting location for an earth pony town. So very steep...” Mayor Mare was continuing her tour for Talon Bold; the pegasus commander of the Wonderbolts. They duo was mostly alone with most of Ponyville at the pre-show appearance. One pegasus did watch them closely however. “Finally, they're here”, whispered Rainbow Dash from here hiding spot atop Sudden-drop hill. “Now, just have to wait for some pony to go hurling uncontrollable towards the cliffside.” “Again.” The Pegasus began her wait for some unfortunate pony. “Just got to wait” She waited. “A little bit more” and waited “A little...” and waited... “Oh for Pete's sake,” “where is every pony?” “Oh, right the air show....” The pegasus stared at her recent hoof drawn watch. “Its already been,” gasp. “5 MINUTES.” “Why can't some pony just go hurling towards their near doom already?” Suddenly, a cart came to a quick safe stop atop the hill. Rainbow Dash noticed the earth pony owner of Flower & Soil had just parked his cart outside. The cart filled with todays stock of freshly picked goods. The business savvy colt, unconcerned with frivolous pegasi air shows, went inside to record stock. He wasn't the kind of pony to ever go tumbling down Sudden-drop. His cart however... With a mischievous grin Dash trotted over to the defenseless cart. “Oh no, an out of control cart”, she said softly while giving the cart a slight kick. It didn't budge. “I said, oh no an out of control cart.” The cart didn't budge with the second, more solid, kick. Rainbow Dash glared down at the cart that dared challenge the Dash, snorted and... “I s a i d...” A dust trail shot down Sudden-drop hill leaving in its way a fragrant scent. Then, a flash. A rainbow bolt of color soared towards the cart. What head start Rainbow Dash had given vanished. They were neck and wheel. Rainbow shot the inanimate object a glance of victory before she pulled ahead, slammed her hooves down, and ground the cart to a instant halt right as they reached the hill's ramped end. Unfortunately for Rainbow Dash, though the cart had stopped, its cargo hadn't. Flowers pulled by their continuing momentum flew into the sky, and rained down upon the two just now onlooking ponies. The soil's flight however was much shorter lived. It soon slammed into an unfortunate pegasus; submerging her. “An interesting... welcome”, said Talon below Sudden-drop hill's infamous ramp as he stared up at the falling flower petals. “Oh, must have just been another cart crashing off Sudden-drop hill,” said Mayor Mare nonchalantly. “Another!?, some pony could have been hurt.” “oOoh...” mumbled the dirt pile. “Why in the name of Celestia have such road?” asked Talon. “Well, that's quite easy to explain. You see....” began Mayor Mare voice as it echoed into the distance for Rainbow Dash. However, hoofs could be heard coming closer as Rainbow Dash started raising herself from the dirt restraints while trying to push away the image in her head of Pinkie Pie bringing up the fact Dash had soiled herself. However the pony that arrived was not concerned over such trivial humor. “You crash it, you buy it,” “Your sold out!”, echoed Fluttershy's voice. “but its still so early.” The earth pony grinned as he counted his pile of coins again. “I'm afraid today's flower stock just flew off the shelves.” “Well, rolled.” Everyfree Forest stretched on before an annoyed pegasus. Her frustration easing what fears she had as she entered its gloomy depths. Leafless branches seemingly reaching out to grab her. Shady eyes glanced from the darkness, but Rainbow kept on moving as it was the only place to find what she was looking for. “Great, 1st I fail to even be seen by Talon, and now I have to miss the next several Wonderbolts shows.” “Stupid flowers.” Rainbow Dash moved further into the dark forest diligently looking for her prey. “But it doesn't matter. After all the one and only Rainbow Dash will soon fly with them,” She searched high and low for the winged menace, but their cute large eyes were no where to be seen. Ponyville's fortune deepened on Rainbow's misfortune at finding the creatures. “Not here either,” exasperated the mare. Then she heard it. The distinct flapping of thousands of tiny wings. Wasting no time Dash jolted towards the source. Tree branch after tree branch slammed her in the face. Her mane becoming what rarity would call a travesty. but that didn't slow her in the slightest until she was flung into an open field. A field, stretching into the distance filled with glowing flowers & Everfree forest moths. The pegasus's expression turned sour, “ great. Just great.” “Where in Equestria a swarming plague when I need one!”, Dash yelled as she took flight to vent her frustration before quickly falling back to the ground depression hit, “Fluttershy just walked in and found one. What do I find,” “MOTHS!” “How am I supposed to work with that?” Meanwhile, back in Ponyville, Twilight and Apple Jack trotted back through the main entrance. Pinkie Pie & Rarity came into view as they met back up with Twilight & Apple Jack. “Where in Equestria is Rainbow Dash, she was the one sooo exited for the Wonderbolt's coming” “Your guess as good as mine sugar cube.” “Well, she's certainly not at Fluttershy's ,or Fluttershy for that matter”, Rarity informed Twilight. “Great, now we have two missing pegasi.” “Oh oh oh, maybe today's lesson we learn is how to play hide and seek,” Pinkie Pie said while hopping circles around every pony else. “Fluttershy's always been good at hiding” “Pinkie, lessons in friendship don't happen every day.” “I know, its every episode.” An awkward post Pinkie pause followed. “... Anyyy wayyy....”, Twilight began with a perplexed look. “The only thing we need to learn is the whereabouts of Rainbow Dash, “ “and apparently Flutterhy.” “Still, nothing bad happened today, so there's nothing to worry about...” “RUN!”, screamed small group of ponies who came charging into town screaming in panic. Their clothes being in shambles to Rarity's dismay. One tripped in front of Twilight and company. “There coming. There coming”, whispered the fallen pony. “The swarm, it's coming” “Parasprites, AGAIN”, Twilight jumping into action. No. Not Parasprites.” THEN WHAT?!” “m,... mo... moths...” “Moths, its only moths!” “NOTHING!”, yelled the once fallen pony as sprang up. “They ate the literal clothes off our backs, along with all my freshly bought Canterlott fabricss.” “NO!”screamed Rarity. “THIS CRIME AGAINST FASHION SHALL NOT GO UNPUNISHED” “Now's my chance.” And it was her chance. With luck, determination, and some bait borrowed from Rarity's fabric collection, Rainbow Dash had lured a swarm of Everfree forest moths into Ponyville. Any fabric or cloth vanished when they past over. Now, they were heading for Ponyville's shopping district. “Lets see, what did AJ say about herding...” “ahh that right; a firm yet gently push from all sides, then turn-um”. “Sounds easy enough.” With screaming speed Rainbow dash spiraled around the mass of moths knocking everyone in her way back into the swarm. However, for every moth knocked into place two more popped out. Again and again Dash circled and whacked, but the the swarm just grew and grew. A town full of cloth proved too alluring to the swarm of moths. “Fine, time for some more firm”, gasped Dash. Rainbow Dash then soared above the moth swarm in preparation. “ You guys hungry, then taste some Dash!”, she yelled when she flying kicked her way into the grey mass. “Take some of these”, screamed the voice inside the swarm. “Want some more?, how bought these.” “And a pair of these” “and some more of ...” BAM! The moth swarm went silent, with only the soft beat of their wings as they flew closer to the shopping district. Soon they left the “Welcome to Ponyville sign” behind. The sign with a recently added pegasus to its design. “But mommy, I don't want read anymore”, said Rainbow Dash with her eyes spinning and her head smashed through the sign. “And here is Ponyville's shopping district”, announced Mayor Mare. “recently remodeled.” “hmm”, mumbled Talon Bold as they entered the new section of town. A falcon's cah roared from the sky as the bird soared down to Talon, and landed on his front right hoof. A message was bound to its leg. Talon removed and read the letter as Mayor Mare, and any ponies too busy for the air show, stared. “Good, job”, Talon said to the proud falcon before he sent him back, and then noticed the unwanted attention. “My messenger” he explained to surrounding eyes. “Is anything the matter?” asked Mayor Mare with concern over yet another disaster. “It's the storm isn't it? Its course back to Ponyville,” she continued as several ponies gasped. “No. All's on schedule and as planed. Including the storm's new course,” replied Talon as several ponies breathed sighs of relief. “The Wonderbolts should be leaving for their last practice flights as we speak,” “but I can't spend more than another hour with you, unfortunately” “Well thats plenty of time”, boasted the mayor. “As long as nothing goes wrong....” Our two groups had just arrived at that very moment. Twilight and company arrived at the north side, while the cloth devouring swarm the south. The store owning ponies ran to their shops prepared to once again protect their livelihood from a a carnivorous swarm. “We're too late” said Twilight as they rushed towards the menace. “NEVER!”, screamed a strangely enthusiastic Rarity. “We shall stop those fashion fiends” “once, and, FOR ALL!” They never got a chance. Another pony had already stepped forward to deal with the swarm; stepped to the left to be precise. “Why do these things always happen when I'm around”, said Talon Bold now in the swarm's path. Without flinching or loosing sight of the rushing swarm, Talon had removed his black cloak and held it in front of him. His cutie mark of 3 falcon's flying in tight formation being revealed for the first time, while in Ponyville. Talon waved the worn cloth in front of the swarm. Taunting them with every flick of its fabric. Taunting, and alluring them. The moth swarm charged the cloak, only to have it yanked away at the last second by Bold agilely spinning out of their path. Again, and again the swarm lunged at the cloak, only to miss it every time. Faster and faster they charged all the while getting tighter and tighter; till Talon had them charging right were he wanted. “Toro, Toro”, he heard some pink pony scream. Finally Talon released his grip, sending his cloak tumbling in the wind created by the flap of his wings. The swarm kept charging forward, towards their prize as it flew away. Both went flying down the road away from the shopping district. A crowd of shop owning ponies & their customers surrounded Talon and cheered him on. “As Mayor I must offer my deepest thanks to you and your sacrificed cape, surly we must repay...” “No, please don't pay no mind. I already have a pony sowing another new one.” “And unfortunately not every shop was spared. There's one down that road still in their path.” “Hopefully that carousel building lacks any fabric, clothes, or dresses.” A distinct, “NOOO!” could be heard from the back of crowd. “Don't worry Angel, I'm sure Rarity will have a nice dress available today for...” Fluttershy paused as she entered Carousel Boutique, only to find the place in ruins. Well actually the store was fine, but all the rows of dresses were gone with the only few remaining filled with holes. “I'm ru-in-ed”, cried Rarity as she dramatically fell onto her couch cushion, only to be bounced to the floor by its freshly exposed springs. “Oh fiddle sticks,” Fluttershy said before going to comfort Rarity. “No speed, no agility. Great, how am I ever going to impress my way into the Wonderbolts now”, Rainbow Dash depressingly said atop a roof. A tear almost went down her eye, but at that moment she turned and saw a glass window reflection. The pegasus proceeded to pose in front of the make shift mirror. “No, That's loser talk Dash”, she said while showing off her muscles. “A pony as amazing as myself can impress the Wonderbolts commander with only one heroic stunt.” She started strolling in though atop the roof. “However it has to be a rather big stunt. Stopping the run of the mill rouge storm cloud won't do. It has to be something large, dangerous,” “ and flashy.” “Where am I going to find a storm like that at this hou...” Dash paused as she finally took notice of the lighting flashes passing around Ponyville in the distance. Lighting crackled from the massive pitch black clouds. “I can work with that, “ she whispered to herself with a grin. One pegasus still remained depressed as she walked through Ponyville's partially filed streets. Fluttershy sighed. “Rarity won't have dresses for days Angel.” “Now I know I'm going be disappointing.” The rabbit riding on her back, pattered her shoulder. “But wait, punctuality impressive.” she blurted out “If we make it to the cafe on time I'm sure I won't be completely disappointing.” “And that should be easy enough to dooooo.....”, Fluttershy muttered as she looked ahead with the winds finally hitting her. Before her the air had started to screech. Winds blew at unbearable speeds and sent flying parts of trees. The cloud ahead was darker than Nightmare moon, and only lit by its frequent lightning. Attached at its bottom was a howling twister, wider and spinning faster than any Fluttershy had ever seen. Finally, with all her strength and courage she managed to squeak out, “no”
Chapter 3“Sweet apple jam! A twisters headin straight for Ponyville”, Apple Jack said through roaring wind. Twilight looked equally concerned about closing storm. Her face growing grave. “Todays storm was supposed to be re-routed”, said Twilight while dropping into a puzzled tone. “And the forecast never called for tornados...” The winds started to roar more while Twilight and Apple Jack braced themselves to avoid being knocked down. Pinkie jumped into the air and let herself be carried away, giggling until she hit the nearest building were she remained pasted to the wall. “Hurry girls, Ponyville in danger”, she said while galloping off to the storm. Apple jack following right behind. Pinkie Pie ,after removing herself from the wall, skipped after them. “nooooooo”, said Fluttershy as she finished her long stretched out, quiet lament near Rarity's dress shop. She turned to Angel. “I can’t make it to the cafe, if there is no cafe?” She prepared to let the flight in the fight or flight response take hold as she raised her wings. “What a pity, lets go.” Angel hopped in front of his master. He gave his master a long, scolding glare. Guilt took hold as Fluttershy slunched down and let out a sigh. “Your right, I can't just run away”, she said with disappointment mixed with fear. The mare took a deep breath, puffing herself up, before continuing. “I guess I'll have too....”, she paused gulping while she stared at the looming disaster. “Stop this.” Fluttershy bent down preparing to leap into flight. Her leg muscles and wings tensed up. She leaped into the air, then she proceeded to crashed back to the ground. Fluttershy's looked behind to find her wings clamped in protest. “Oh my. This is going to be harder than I thought.” The twirling mass of blackened air let out a fearsome roar. Its cloud top erupted bursts of lightning while its creator hovered above the winds reach. Rainbow Dash gave a boastful grin. “Now thats a Wonder-bolting storm. No way Bold will miss this, or me. Rainbow Dash looked over the swirling destruction one more time. “Or is it?” The wind screeched around the pegasus as she spun around the twister. Faster, faster, faster she soared. The cyclone screamed louder, louder, and louder. Faster and faster the two went. “Just”... “about...” “Perf...” “whaohoooooh”, Rainbow Dash yelled as the tornado took the lead in the areal waltz. Dash tumbled inside her creation. Finally with a loud, “nooooo”, she was ejected. Rainbow plummeted uncontrollably towards the ground. “I wish I could be more like Rainbow Dash”, Fluttershy said after failing to breach the air once again. “I just know I would have already stopped this storm, by now.” Fluttershy kicked the ground in frustration. Well, nudged the ground while she missed the falling Rainbow trail across the sky. The town clock rang and sent the startled pegasus cowering to the ground. She let out a gasp. “I'm going to be late and... disappointing.” The shy mare glared at the twister, then at the clock, then back at the twister, and then back to the clock. “No. I. Won't,” she said when her wings sprang open. Fluttershy lifted into the air, soaring as fast as her wings would allow. Four butterflies quickly passed her with ease. Three ponies ran past Ponyville's welcome sign. Pinkie Pie stopped to gaze through the newly added hole. Twilight soon came to a stop at the town's edge as various ran around in panic over the approaching storm. The purple unicorn looking into the approaching disaster. “Its worse than I feared.” “What Twilight?” “The cyclone!!!”, she yelled back trying to force her voice through the suddenly stronger winds. “I thought I could use my magic to stop it, but its grown too large. I can't do it alone, I need a pegasus, or several!” “Shoot, right when those Wonderbolts ain’t due back till sundown.” said Apple Jack. “Ponyville will be blown down before then”, Twilight said while collapsing to the ground in despair. “Were is Rainbow Dash!? Now of all times she decides to go missing” “Silly, she's not missing. Dashie's plummeting right towards us.” said Pinkie Pie while pointing skyward. The mares looked up in just enough time to catch a glimpse of Rainbow Dash before she slammed into a near by store; Pillows r Us. Debris went flying into the air. Apple Jack, Twilight, and Pinkie trotted up to the freshly cratered building. Rainbow Dash laid atop the remains of pillow filled shipping crates. “You happen to have a back up plan?” asked Apply Jack as she noted the stars floating around Rainbow's head. “Daddy, won't you tell me another Wonderbolt story?” Twilight tried to hide her growing frustration from Apple Jack, but still gave a short facehoof. “Well... there is always Fluttershy. Together we can stop the storm.” “Fluttershy? You sure she's up to bucking a twister? Or able?” “There are ways”, Twilight said as her horn radiated magic. “Plenty of ways.” Before Twilight finished, a yellow flash crashed next to them in an explosion of feathers. Small non-existent birds proceeded to fly above Fluttershy's head as she laid on what remained in the discounted but still soft stack. Near by stacks trembled. “Found her”, Pinkie Pie said before stacks of pillows collapsed on Fluttershy; fully submerging her in a plush prison. “That twister chewing through pegasi for breakfast,” said a concerned Apple Jack. “And Ponyville lunch,” said a frustrated Twilight. “Really, Applelusa sounds sooooo much more tasty”, said a giddy Pinkie. Twilight started to pace back and forward while she mumbled aloud to herself. Solution after solution was raised, then quickly dropped. Twilight herself collapsed to the floor. “Where in Equstria a pegasus when you need one!”, Twilight said to no pony in particular. A blond pegasus with a bubble cutie mark flew by. Another crashing sound quickly followed. “Ooh, Ooh, found one”, said Pinkie Pie as she zoomed out of site. “Pinkie, I don't think she....” Twilight stopped mid lecture. “It would be my pleasure to offer any assistance”, said Talon Bold standing before a gaping mouthed Twilight & Apple Jack. “The rouge storm currently too unstable and near to Ponyville to safely handle alone without the risk of collateral damage. I offer my aid and request yours in resolving the emergency at hand Twilight Sparkle, Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie.” Twilight jolted back up on her hooves from surprise, “You know our names?” “Yes. I'm well aware of your exploits,” he said moving closer to the 3 conscious mares. “Now I must ask Celestia's prized pupal if she has any ideas.” Twilight started to calm down as she joyfully mumbled to herself while blushing. “Celestia does talk about me.” “Well...”, said Bold puzzled. “More specifically...” “Not to be impolite yall but,” Apple Jack said while nodding towards the even closer tornado. “We've got bigger apples to pick.” Twilight snapped back into focus, “Right, here what we need to....” “Twilight Sparkle, are you sure about this”, asked Bold as he stood ready to take off into the fierce winds. The roaring monster was only a few minutes from reaching the town. Its size was comparable to the town itself. “Don't worry Mr. Bold, you can trust my plan”, said Twilight as her horn started to glow. “And my magic.” Talon gave a reassuring nod. “One more thing”, he said while looking back at the purple unicorn. “Please leave it at Talon, I hate formalities.” Talon shot off like a rocket. Behind him he left 3 onlooking mares at Ponyville's edge. Twilight waited to play her part. The air had grew dark around Talon when he reached the twister's edge. The winds reducing his speed several fold. He tried desperately to simply stay out of its grasp. “NOW!”, Twilight screamed as magic started to erupt from her horn. Talon Bold had no way of hearing her, but felt her words effects when his speed instantly doubled then tripled. “Blue blazes, what did you do to him?” Apple Jack asked concerned after Talon's wings seemed to burst into flame bright enough to be seen from the ground. “A rocketing wing spell”, explained Twilight. “It will give him the needed thrust to form a counter revolving wind current around the existing one.” “Wait what?,” Talon soared around the twister. His wings leaving a blazing trail in his wake. With each trip his speed grew. Burning trails quickly connected one after the other. Soon one fired mass of twisting wind formed. The second flaming tornado fully enshrouded the first in a scarlet coat. A now fiery, screaming twister charged at Ponyville. Scorching the earth in its wake. “YOU MADE ANOTHER ONE!”, Apple Jack yelled trough the wind before she and Twilight winced. Their eyes remained firmly closed in preparation for the coming pain. Pinkie pulled out Rarity's camera. The bright blazing funnel sped towards town. However, it soon started to slow. Its lunge being stretched out longer and longer while fiery beast grew smaller and smaller. Apple Jack, growing inpatient at her coming doom, opened her eyes to see a burning tornado no larger than Apple Bloom pass right by before fizzling into smoke. “IT WORKED!”, Twilight yelled. “The currents canceled each other out.” “You look awfully surprised it worked?” Apple Jack thought to herself. With a loud thud Talon Bold appeared next to them. He appeared unscathed with the exception of a few soot smears. A section of his mane had an attached flame that Pinkie quickly pinched out. “It appears your wits are as sharp as my reports noted,” Talon said while looking over himself. “Though I could have done without all the singes....” Twilight tried to hide the blush of shame. Saying it will grow back didn't feel appropriate at the current time. Then after a second of thought she looked confused. “Wait, Celestia writes reports on me?” “What, No,” Talon said noticing disappointment on the unicorn's face. “”Why would Celestia send me reports?” “Wait... then who gives you reports on us.” “Oh that,” said Talon. “Maybe report was an improper phrasing. You see I normally receive falcon letters about your adventures in friendship. Ones delivered by one of my messenger falcons. Usually they arrive weekly. However the messages have been coming late. Apparently the falcon I used got injured in some silly race.” “Hold up now. Who exactly sends reports, I mean falcon letters about us?” Apple Jack asked. “Wait, you don't know. She never told you?” A pile of pillows jumped with life as a dizzy pony emerged. She ducked low after receiving unwanted attention from 3 mares and one tall colt. Talon Bold trotted over to , glaring down. He raised his front right hoof, placed it on her head, and proceeded to ruff up the pegasus's mane. “You never told your friends about me?” Talon said with a hurt edge in his voice. “It... It never came up... Dad”, Fluttershy said with a great blush of red as Twilight & Apple Jacks jaws dropped. Talon Bold let out a sigh while he walked out one of the damaged store's 2 new entrances. “If you would excuse us ladies.” said Bold while trotting away. His daughter ran to catch up. “Oh... my... my everything”, Rainbow Dash said after she regained consciousness. She looked around, then bolted to her feet. “WHERE'S BOLD?” Dash asked her friends. “I still have time, I know I do.” “He's on a date”, said Pinkie while hoping around Rainbow Dash. “A DATE! With who? Mare Major.” “No, Flutershy”, Pinkie said while she skipped about and pointed towards Bold. “Wait, what?”, Rainbow Dash said when she saw Fluttershy catch up and walk along side Bold. “FLUTTERSHY!, Wait... what... huh... WHY!” Pinkie stopped hopping right beside Rainbow Dash. “Father daughter bonding.” “Father... daughter... I... huh”, Rainbow Dash fainted once again. Dear Princess Celestia; “Today I learned a good end doesn't justify bad means. “especially if the good end never achieved.” “Ahem.” “I mean, the end never justify's the means.....”
