Thundershieldby TheTautomerChaptersPrologue Chapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Prologue Prologue When he was a colt, he was raised in a small hamlet between Ponyville and a neighboring town called Appelachia, Hooverston. A small, steppe town, it was inhabited by ponies who survived through means of cactus juice and cactus fruit. They traded with Appelachia, the Buffalo, and Ponyville to withstand the harsh conditions of the brutal sandstorms, the dust devils, bandits and the dangerous creatures that lurked about. Because of the town’s tradition, Hooverston’s residents elect a sheriff to be the pony, which protects and leads. The colt’s father, Dusty Oak, was that sheriff. Gray coated, he had gray eyes and a silver mane with a scar on his left eye. His skin was thicker than most ponies in Hooverston. The colt’s mother, Aquedea, was a foreign Pegasus who came to Hooverston with Dusty Oak. Her mane was a very light brown color while her eyes had a bright yellow that resembled gold. When the two got married, they knew each other since the town could remember. While the details are not known, the town thought that they met during Dusty's leave to an academy. Either way, Aquedea gave birth to the colt a year after their marriage. It was a cooler day than usual. Even though it was winter, there wasn’t a single snowflake present in the town. But judging from the awe and joy spreading around the town, there might as well have been several feet on the dirt roads. News of the colt’s birth reached many of the townsfolk. Blue coated with eyes of golden yellow and mane of a darker blue, the infant was healthy as can be. There was something unusual though, for the baby foal was an alicorn. Aquedea was surprised to see her baby as an alicorn but that he was healthy. Dusty reaction was just about the same. They both were inside the hospital, admiring the little colt. “He’s got your eyes,” said Dusty. “Si, and his kicks were muy fuerte when he was in my belly,” said Aquedea. “Come again?” “Strong, dear. Have you really paid attention in your Spanish class?” “Well, you see, it’s hard to pay attention to the class when the teacher doesn’t speak any Equestrian.” Aquedea just shook her head. As the doctor approached the parents, the baby frowned at the doctor and kicked at him. The doctor stumbled slightly, making the alicorn miss. He kept kicking his legs, trying to reach the doctor. The doctor stared at the child curiously from a safe distance away from the infant’s legs. Aquedea and Dusty just laughed. “So I assume you both have a name for the baby?” asked the doctor. The arlicorn stopped kicking at the doctor and yawned. Dusty picked up the baby from Aquedea and cradled the little one in his arms. “Yes doctor,” said Dusty without a doubt. Dusty felt a special presence within the alicorn. There was something more to his son than he knew at the moment. “Thundershield.” Chapter 1The air was cracked and dry as a saltine cracker. A very hot saltine cracker. Every inhale of the air could make an average pony beg for water in two minutes, though the ponies of Hooverston didn’t mind. But Thundershield did; almost late to class, Thundersheid needed every parcel of moisture the air could muster to keep him going. Thankfully, Thundershield’s hooves and strong legs made him the fastest Arlicorn in Hooverston. In fact, he might as well have been the fastest pony in Hooverston. But a previous accident while helping an old lady move her piano to her home made him sprain his leg (He wanted to do his good deed for that day. Deal with it.). While it’s healed now, the doctor told him to wait at least a week before doing anything normal. It was day six and the arlicorn’s leg didn’t stop him from running to school. The school was about twenty miles from his home. “Crud, I wish the school could go over here!” thought Thundershield, “I also wish I could fly or use magic to teleport me, but of course this town is filled with earth ponies. I wish there was someone who could teach me. Mom is way too busy. Sigh…. What am I running for? OH RIGHT! CLASS!” He looked at his watch and saw that it 8:50 A.M., ten minutes before class started. “By the mane of Celestia, I’ll be late at this rate! Hey, that rhymed. I wonder what else rhymes with late. Maybe master- what am I doing?! I’m late!!” Thundershield quickened his pace. He couldn’t be late again. The teacher would kill him! His mom would kill him! What would his dad say to him when he came back from the royal guard to find Thundershield late for school?! “Okay I’m halfway there with about six minutes left. If I keep this up, I’ll be there in no time.” Suddenly, he felt a tense tug on his leg and stopped running. He looked at it and found that his leg had not fully healed, just as the doctor predicted. “Strudel cakes! I thought I could make it,” thought Thundershield. He looked back at the time with only three minutes left. ‘I could fly there, but then I run the risk of breaking my wing again. Plus, I’m five or six miles away, I still need to learn to fly faster from mom.’ Then he thought about magic. ‘There was that teleportation spell I read about. It should be easy enough for me… I hope this works!’ Thundershield got up and then charged his horn. The tip of his horn shone a yellow ball of light. He focused all of his energy on the classroom. The more he focused, the brighter it got. He kept struggling to charge his horn. What seemed like minutes but was sooner than a blink of an eye, the light engulfed him and he appeared in the classroom. He smiled at his achievement, not many his age could teleport. But then he looked around the half destroyed classroom and lowered his head. Some of the books were burnt black, the desks were scattered all over the place and his classmates were all stunned- one complaining about his leg- at what they saw. His teacher, Miss Delphinetly, looked disappointed. An educated earth pony, she took her classroom with anything but humor. She loved her students, but was really fond of Thundershield. She saw much potential in the young arlicorn, but not right now. Her classroom was in a chaotic- and slightly crispy- mess. “Thundershield, you’re late,” she said. “for the sixth time.” Thundershield pleaded with her. “I’m sorry Ms. Delphinetly! I’ll be early next time and-” “And you wrecked the classroom.” “Again, I’m really, really, really sorry. I’m so sorry, you have no idea. In fact, I’m so sorry, I’ll do any-” Miss Delphinetly raised her hoof at Thundershield. “I’ll speak with you after class Thundershield.” Thundershield lowered his head. “Yes Miss Delphinetly.” Ms. Delphinetly nodded and said, “Okay class, let’s rearrange everything and start the lesson.” Chapter 2After class, Thundershield approached Ms. Delphinetly. She was a mare coated in light green with hair as green as the grass in Ponyville. Her cutie mark shows a meter stick lying on a globe with a graduation hat on top of the globe. She looked at Thundershield disappointingly. “Thundershield, I am extremely disappointed in you. Not only were you late, but you nearly destroyed the classroom with your magic.” said Ms. Delphinetly, “Maybe there was a reason you were late Thundersheid?” “I’m sorry auntie! I tried not to be late! I-I don’t know. I woke up late, I guess” “I see. Is your leg healed yet?” “My leg hasn’t healed yet, ma’m.” “What? Really?” Delphinetly’s expression, though mostly stern, showed some curiosity. “No it didn’t m’am. I was trying to reach your class on time and it didn’t heal so I use a teleportation spell.” “Okay. And you didn’t let me walk you because?” Thundershield stared at the ground and shuffled his hooves awkwardly. “Because I didn’t wake up earlier enough to have you help me.” Thundershield closed his eyes slowly and heavily sighed in guilt. “I’ll accept my punishment.” No matter how many times Thundershield did it, Delphinetly couldn’t believe how genuine and mature her nephew took the scolding. She could let it slide; she did punish him by giving time outs. Besides, today was a special day. She walked up to Thundershield and lifted his head to meet her violet eyes. “I won’t punish you, Thunder. But I will have to tell your mom about this.” Thundershield, bewildered, stared at her for several seconds. “But it’s my fault aunt Delphinetly! I woke up thinking I could get to school on time with my injured leg. I should have woken up earlier.” “No Thundershield, it’s quite alright, I’ll forgive you today.” “Really?!” “Yes, but promise that you won’t burn any of my books or be late again? Even if that means waking up earlier than usual?” “I will! I’ll wake up extra early and I’ll work on the spell so I can be even earlier!” Ms.Delphinetly giggled and Thundershield gave her a hug with the strength of an anaconda. “Thank you so much Aunt Delphinetly! I won’t let you down ever again!” Then he dashed as fast as he could out to catch up with his friends. “Don’t run so fast Thunder!” said Ms.Delphinetly. She smiled; he was one of the most hardworking students she ever had and admired his nephew. He always brought her apples so she could see her smile and would give her the best hugs he could give so she wouldn’t be sad. However, he was a bit of trouble in class. One time, a colt and Thundershield were intensely brawling in the sand. The colt punched Thundershield in the face and he returned with two jabs at the colt’s face. When colt front-kicked Thundershield in the stomach, Thundershield cringed over with a surprised expression in his face. Thundershield shook it off and tackled the colt to the ground, nailing him to the ground. They rolled around the edges of the ring of the chanting foals, exchanging blows. “Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!” The colt ended up in bottom and tried to use his forehooves to punch Thundershield. Thundershield simply dodged and swung his head with full force, smashing the colt’s nose with his horn. Thankfully it was dull, making it a small blunt weapon rather than a dangerous pick. That didn't calm Ms.Delphinetly, though, who pushed Thundershield off the colt and made sure the colt was okay. She sent everyone, but the colt, who was sent to the hospital for injuries and a bruised up Thundershield, back into the school. She yanked Thundershield by the ear and yelled, “Thundershield! Why would do that? You know that isn’t right!” Thundershield lowered his head, ear pulled, and said, “Because he insulted you, and no one insults the best aunt in the whole wide world!” She looked in amazement. She knew the Thundershield was protective but she never knew how far his protection reached. She just shook her head, smiled and gave him a big hug. “I love you aunt Delphinetly, and I don’t want anyone to hurt you in anyway.” She snapped out of her flashback and looked at her necklace. She opened it and found Thundershield, Dusty, Aqueda, and her all in a family photo. “I love you, too.” Thundershield was trying to run without spraining his leg again. “Hey, Firesword, wait up!” His friend looked back. He was red with black hair without a cutie mark, just like Thundershield. His eyes were as orange as a well lit candle. He saw that his friend was limping. “Hang on Thundershield, I’m coming!” Thundershield tried to run as fast as he could but his friend already reached him. “Your leg hasn’t healed yet?” asked Firesword. “No, it’s completely healed Firesword, I can now walk again now that you came over,” said Thundershield sarcastically. “Ok, Well I see you later, I gotta run somewhere.” “Hey, I didn’t mean it like that, you know I like to joke around from time to time,” Thundershield said. “Really? Tell me more about how you were just kidding!” Firesword said with a tiny grin. Thundershield just smirked. “Thanks for waiting for me.” “Why didn’t you tell me to walk you to go to school?” The question became a quick agitator when uttered more than once. “Because I don’t want you to worry about me.” “It wouldn’t be a problem at all. Plus, we’d be excused from being tardy, and I know I would like to sleep a little longer.” Thundershield just looked at him. “If you got your way, you would sleep a whole day!” “And that’s a problem because?” “Whatever man, I just want my leg to heal so you would stop making me your scapegoat.” Firesword just looked at him in confusion. “You know, someone to blame when things go wrong,” said Thundershield. “Like I would know. Unlike you, I’m not an encyclopedionary.” Thundershield rolled his eyes. He wasn’t that smart and kept reminding Firesword that. “Anyways, my dad is coming home from the Royal Guard for his birthday! My mom, my aunt and I want to surprise him with the town! You want to help prepare?” “Sure! Let’s go!” When they went to Thundershield’s house, Aquedea was waiting for him anxiously. “Hijo! Why didn’t you wait for me?!” “I’m sorry mama, I didn’t mean to worry you. ‘I thought you needed the extra sleep.” Aquedea tried to fix his hair, “Promise you won’t go out by yourself ever again, querido?” “Moooom, stop embarrassing me.” “Prometeme que, por favor!” (Promise me please!) “Si, mama, no voy a hacerlo de nuevo.” (Yes, mom, I promise I won’t do it ever again.) “Good.” She kissed Thundershield on the head. She saw Firesword holding a straight face. “Hola, Firesword!” “Hola, Miss Aquedea,” said Firesword. He looked at his friend– smirking-- and then walked inside with Thundershield. Thundershield lowered his head with blood red cheeks. The house was a typical Western home that was painted green with red window frames. Inside displayed the mix of the Spanish and Pony culture. The inside was decorated with a white ceiling and pillars upholding the ceiling. The wooden pillars protruded through the walls and held the ceiling atop. Inside, many of the furniture displayed a Latin feel to it. But today there was an extra touch of decorations, for Dusty Oak was coming back from his duty of the Royal Guard. He went to join the Royal Guard after he was offered by one of the Captains. “Mom, why did dad join the Shining Guard?” asked Thundershield. “Hijo, he joined because he wanted to help defend Equestria from its dangers,” Aqueda said while putting decorations were being put up. “You know that.” Thundershield did know that, but there wasn’t a single day that he missed his father. He wanted to go out there and travel with him. More importantly, he wanted to stand at his father’s side. He loved his home, his friends, his family, and Hooverston. He looked up at the stars and saw that one was shining brighter than the others. It was the star that reminded him of his father. … “Hey dad, why is the star brighter than the others?” asked young Thundershield. “Well, why shouldn’t it?” asked his father. “Because it‘s not giving the others the chance to be seen.” “But you can see the other stars, can’t you?” “I guess so. But why does it do that?” “Well maybe the other stars are lost and confused. They might be even scared in the dark.” “Well…I guess.” “The shining star was born with an enormous glow and it wants to use its gift to help other stars by protecting them from the darkness.” Thundershield never saw it that way, he always thought that the star was too bright and tried to impede the other star’s abilities. “So, it’s helping the other stars?” Dusty playfully tackled Thundershield to the ground and tickled him. “I’m absolutely positive, kid. It wants to help others, just like you. So what it does is, just like the bright stars, is it shines brighter than the others so it can give even more light from the darkness.” Thundershield gazed at the star a bit more. “That star is awesome.” Dusty smiled and began to speak again, “I’m sure when the star was little, it thought the same thing you’re thinking right now.” Dusty changed his tone of voice suddenly and said, “Thunder, you and that bright star have something in common.” “What’s that dad?” “Both of you shine so brightly, that everything notices. Maybe you or him don’t notice the shine yourselves posses, but you both will. And when the time comes, you will both use that shine to help everyone.” … Thundershield just looked at the sky from the window. Seven years later and the star is one of the brighter ones in the sky. Its shine has not been extinguished just yet. “When dad? When will the time come?” Thundershield asked looking at the sky. Chapter 3It was to be a surprise party. When Aqueda wrote back to Dusty’s letters, she never mentioned the party. Ms. Delphinetly was there too to help with the preparations with the rest of the town. The kids were running around and playing games with each other. The atmosphere swelled with excitement and anxiousness as the crowd awaited their beloved sheriff. Everyone dressed for the occasion, wearing the nicest clothes they had had. They wanted to make the best welcome home party any pony had experienced. Talks of Dusty’s heroism were spreading throughout the house as Thundershield entered through the front porch. “Hey, Thunder!” said Firesword while running towards his friend, “I was looking for you! Where you been?” “I was outside.” “You okay?” “I just… I’m happy my dad is coming back and all, but I want to be with him now. I feel confused about something.” “Confused, eh? That’s a first. What’s on your mind?” “Well, I guess it may not be confusion. It’s more worriment.” “Berry Mint? You mean the girl in our class? You’re crushing on her?!” “No worriment like the act of… look, until my dad comes back, I will be consistently worried about him.” “Dude, he’s Dusty Oaks, only the greatest sheriff in all of Equestria! I mean, he stopped those bandits from attacking the town, saved the town during a sandstorm, saved a little girl from a rattlesnake bite, heroically saved a bandwagon from more bandits, saved the town from starvation by traveling to Ponyville to receive supplies-.” “You’re right. My dad’s fine. Thanks, Firesword!” Firesword nodded and both colts went to help with the decorations. As Thundershield walked with Firesword, they met the school bully, Hefty. “Well, well, look who it is, Fart brains and the Flaming toothpick!” His groupies laughed. Hefty was a big pony, who had a skull bone cutie mark. His coat was a dark color with a dark mane. His eyes were crimson, just like blood. “Hey there Huff’n puff, what’s shakin?” asked Firesword “Shut up, toothpick! I’m here because my dad dragged me here. I wouldn’t want to be here anyways. Besides, you will never be as good as your dad ever was.” “Like you’ll be any better than my dad?” asked Thundershield rhetorically. “Oh yea, at least twenty times better when I grow up.” “Really? Why not now? Lemme see that potential you got there.” “With pleasure, Fart brains!” Just as Hefty was going to attack Thundershield, Firesword stopped both of them. “Wait, how about an eating contest? Y’know, so the parents don’t make a fuss about it?” said Firesword. “Looks like the Flaming Toothpick has more smarts than you, Fart brains. I challenge you, dunderface, to an eating contest.” “As much as you should lose some weight, I’m in you giant blackberry.” Hefty frowned, but just turned around. “See you later, Fart brains.” Thundershield looked at Firesword with relief and gratitude. He didn’t want to wreck the party. The gratitude became overshadowed by a sudden realization. “Firesword, how can I beat Hefty in an eating contest? Look at him, he could eat twenty ponies and still ask for dessert!” exclaimed Thundershield “I don’t know. I just thought it would be a good idea,” said Firesword. “Do you think he’ll beat me?” “No,” said Firesword, “He’s going to grind you to dust.” “I hate you so much right now.” “And then munch on you like a bag of sugar.” “All. Of. My. Hate.” Later that night, the eating contest was underway between the arlicorn and the pony. “Ready to lose, Fart brains?” asked Hefty “Dude, my IQ is at least 100 points above yours. I am not stupid,” said Thunderbolt “What’s an IQ?” “Make that 200.” “Whatever, your ‘IQ’ is not going to help you in this competition!” Firesword came up and exclaimed, “Foals and colts, tonight we have our eating competition between Thundershield and Hefty. Usually, each contestant must not only be the first to eat all of the food, but they must eat it without any vomit! Today, however, is a surprise party. So, given that Dusty will be-” “YEAAAA! DUSTY OAK!” said a random colt. Firesword turned towards the colt in a scowl. And by scowl, I mean death glare. “sorry,” said the young colt. “-here in any minute, they must be able to eat as much food as they in 5 minutes without vomiting! When I say go, start eating.” Thundershield looked down at all twenty dishes. They were filled with a giant burrito, pies, and a variety of other foods that were fit for 10 ponies. “I regret everything,” thought Thundershield. “Players are you ready?!” said Firesword. Hefty let out a mighty yell while Thundershield nodded his head in a stricken state. How could he finish all this food? There was no way, but he couldn’t lose to Hefty! How was he going to- “GO!” and he was stuffing his face before he could think about it. Hefty was a pig, constantly eating his plates with nothing but an open mouth. Food would always sputter from his mouth making the crowd move two yards back. He tried to sneak in a break. “Hey, no breaks!” said Firesword making the rest of the crowd boo at Hefty. Hefty glanced over to find Thundershield eating his food as well. Hefty tried to take a bite, but he couldn’t eat anymore! Just as he was about panic, Thundershield finished his food. “Holy…cow…I’m… done…” Thundershield exclaimed in between huffs. The crowd young mares and colts cheered for Thundershield. What a short cheer it was. An adult stallion yelled, “WHO TOOK THE FOOD?!” The young crowd vanished in all directions they could find away from the rage. Thundershield hid with Firesword, with a lot of huffing and puffing. Then they just looked at each other and laughed. Firesword abruptly stopped laughing and became confused. “How?” asked Firesword. “Huh?” replied Thundershield “How did you beat him? The colt can eat everything and beyond like it was a snack.” “…I don’t know. Miracles?” “Or you’re just secretly a fatass? Either way, Hefty doesn’t doesn't discriminate the size when he's gonna kick it.” “Yea, bet he’s looking for me and try to get payback,” said Thundershield. “There you are, hijo,” said Aqueda. “Vamos, we need to hide for your father.” She then nudged Thundershield and Firesword behind the couch. Thundershield and Firesword dashed towards the couch crouched behind it. The lights were off and the room seemed completely empty. The sound of the key entering the lock interrupted the complete, yet small silence. “That’s dad!” thought Thundershield, “I can’t wait to give him the greatest hug he will ever get!” The lock began to rotate. “This is it!” The knob rotated. “Three.” The door slightly opened. “Two.” The door opened a little bit more. “One.” The door opened. “Surprise!” shouted all of the ponies. And a surprise indeed, for Dusty never showed up to his own party.
Prologue Prologue When he was a colt, he was raised in a small hamlet between Ponyville and a neighboring town called Appelachia, Hooverston. A small, steppe town, it was inhabited by ponies who survived through means of cactus juice and cactus fruit. They traded with Appelachia, the Buffalo, and Ponyville to withstand the harsh conditions of the brutal sandstorms, the dust devils, bandits and the dangerous creatures that lurked about. Because of the town’s tradition, Hooverston’s residents elect a sheriff to be the pony, which protects and leads. The colt’s father, Dusty Oak, was that sheriff. Gray coated, he had gray eyes and a silver mane with a scar on his left eye. His skin was thicker than most ponies in Hooverston. The colt’s mother, Aquedea, was a foreign Pegasus who came to Hooverston with Dusty Oak. Her mane was a very light brown color while her eyes had a bright yellow that resembled gold. When the two got married, they knew each other since the town could remember. While the details are not known, the town thought that they met during Dusty's leave to an academy. Either way, Aquedea gave birth to the colt a year after their marriage. It was a cooler day than usual. Even though it was winter, there wasn’t a single snowflake present in the town. But judging from the awe and joy spreading around the town, there might as well have been several feet on the dirt roads. News of the colt’s birth reached many of the townsfolk. Blue coated with eyes of golden yellow and mane of a darker blue, the infant was healthy as can be. There was something unusual though, for the baby foal was an alicorn. Aquedea was surprised to see her baby as an alicorn but that he was healthy. Dusty reaction was just about the same. They both were inside the hospital, admiring the little colt. “He’s got your eyes,” said Dusty. “Si, and his kicks were muy fuerte when he was in my belly,” said Aquedea. “Come again?” “Strong, dear. Have you really paid attention in your Spanish class?” “Well, you see, it’s hard to pay attention to the class when the teacher doesn’t speak any Equestrian.” Aquedea just shook her head. As the doctor approached the parents, the baby frowned at the doctor and kicked at him. The doctor stumbled slightly, making the alicorn miss. He kept kicking his legs, trying to reach the doctor. The doctor stared at the child curiously from a safe distance away from the infant’s legs. Aquedea and Dusty just laughed. “So I assume you both have a name for the baby?” asked the doctor. The arlicorn stopped kicking at the doctor and yawned. Dusty picked up the baby from Aquedea and cradled the little one in his arms. “Yes doctor,” said Dusty without a doubt. Dusty felt a special presence within the alicorn. There was something more to his son than he knew at the moment. “Thundershield.”
Chapter 1The air was cracked and dry as a saltine cracker. A very hot saltine cracker. Every inhale of the air could make an average pony beg for water in two minutes, though the ponies of Hooverston didn’t mind. But Thundershield did; almost late to class, Thundersheid needed every parcel of moisture the air could muster to keep him going. Thankfully, Thundershield’s hooves and strong legs made him the fastest Arlicorn in Hooverston. In fact, he might as well have been the fastest pony in Hooverston. But a previous accident while helping an old lady move her piano to her home made him sprain his leg (He wanted to do his good deed for that day. Deal with it.). While it’s healed now, the doctor told him to wait at least a week before doing anything normal. It was day six and the arlicorn’s leg didn’t stop him from running to school. The school was about twenty miles from his home. “Crud, I wish the school could go over here!” thought Thundershield, “I also wish I could fly or use magic to teleport me, but of course this town is filled with earth ponies. I wish there was someone who could teach me. Mom is way too busy. Sigh…. What am I running for? OH RIGHT! CLASS!” He looked at his watch and saw that it 8:50 A.M., ten minutes before class started. “By the mane of Celestia, I’ll be late at this rate! Hey, that rhymed. I wonder what else rhymes with late. Maybe master- what am I doing?! I’m late!!” Thundershield quickened his pace. He couldn’t be late again. The teacher would kill him! His mom would kill him! What would his dad say to him when he came back from the royal guard to find Thundershield late for school?! “Okay I’m halfway there with about six minutes left. If I keep this up, I’ll be there in no time.” Suddenly, he felt a tense tug on his leg and stopped running. He looked at it and found that his leg had not fully healed, just as the doctor predicted. “Strudel cakes! I thought I could make it,” thought Thundershield. He looked back at the time with only three minutes left. ‘I could fly there, but then I run the risk of breaking my wing again. Plus, I’m five or six miles away, I still need to learn to fly faster from mom.’ Then he thought about magic. ‘There was that teleportation spell I read about. It should be easy enough for me… I hope this works!’ Thundershield got up and then charged his horn. The tip of his horn shone a yellow ball of light. He focused all of his energy on the classroom. The more he focused, the brighter it got. He kept struggling to charge his horn. What seemed like minutes but was sooner than a blink of an eye, the light engulfed him and he appeared in the classroom. He smiled at his achievement, not many his age could teleport. But then he looked around the half destroyed classroom and lowered his head. Some of the books were burnt black, the desks were scattered all over the place and his classmates were all stunned- one complaining about his leg- at what they saw. His teacher, Miss Delphinetly, looked disappointed. An educated earth pony, she took her classroom with anything but humor. She loved her students, but was really fond of Thundershield. She saw much potential in the young arlicorn, but not right now. Her classroom was in a chaotic- and slightly crispy- mess. “Thundershield, you’re late,” she said. “for the sixth time.” Thundershield pleaded with her. “I’m sorry Ms. Delphinetly! I’ll be early next time and-” “And you wrecked the classroom.” “Again, I’m really, really, really sorry. I’m so sorry, you have no idea. In fact, I’m so sorry, I’ll do any-” Miss Delphinetly raised her hoof at Thundershield. “I’ll speak with you after class Thundershield.” Thundershield lowered his head. “Yes Miss Delphinetly.” Ms. Delphinetly nodded and said, “Okay class, let’s rearrange everything and start the lesson.”
Chapter 2After class, Thundershield approached Ms. Delphinetly. She was a mare coated in light green with hair as green as the grass in Ponyville. Her cutie mark shows a meter stick lying on a globe with a graduation hat on top of the globe. She looked at Thundershield disappointingly. “Thundershield, I am extremely disappointed in you. Not only were you late, but you nearly destroyed the classroom with your magic.” said Ms. Delphinetly, “Maybe there was a reason you were late Thundersheid?” “I’m sorry auntie! I tried not to be late! I-I don’t know. I woke up late, I guess” “I see. Is your leg healed yet?” “My leg hasn’t healed yet, ma’m.” “What? Really?” Delphinetly’s expression, though mostly stern, showed some curiosity. “No it didn’t m’am. I was trying to reach your class on time and it didn’t heal so I use a teleportation spell.” “Okay. And you didn’t let me walk you because?” Thundershield stared at the ground and shuffled his hooves awkwardly. “Because I didn’t wake up earlier enough to have you help me.” Thundershield closed his eyes slowly and heavily sighed in guilt. “I’ll accept my punishment.” No matter how many times Thundershield did it, Delphinetly couldn’t believe how genuine and mature her nephew took the scolding. She could let it slide; she did punish him by giving time outs. Besides, today was a special day. She walked up to Thundershield and lifted his head to meet her violet eyes. “I won’t punish you, Thunder. But I will have to tell your mom about this.” Thundershield, bewildered, stared at her for several seconds. “But it’s my fault aunt Delphinetly! I woke up thinking I could get to school on time with my injured leg. I should have woken up earlier.” “No Thundershield, it’s quite alright, I’ll forgive you today.” “Really?!” “Yes, but promise that you won’t burn any of my books or be late again? Even if that means waking up earlier than usual?” “I will! I’ll wake up extra early and I’ll work on the spell so I can be even earlier!” Ms.Delphinetly giggled and Thundershield gave her a hug with the strength of an anaconda. “Thank you so much Aunt Delphinetly! I won’t let you down ever again!” Then he dashed as fast as he could out to catch up with his friends. “Don’t run so fast Thunder!” said Ms.Delphinetly. She smiled; he was one of the most hardworking students she ever had and admired his nephew. He always brought her apples so she could see her smile and would give her the best hugs he could give so she wouldn’t be sad. However, he was a bit of trouble in class. One time, a colt and Thundershield were intensely brawling in the sand. The colt punched Thundershield in the face and he returned with two jabs at the colt’s face. When colt front-kicked Thundershield in the stomach, Thundershield cringed over with a surprised expression in his face. Thundershield shook it off and tackled the colt to the ground, nailing him to the ground. They rolled around the edges of the ring of the chanting foals, exchanging blows. “Fight! Fight! Fight! Fight!” The colt ended up in bottom and tried to use his forehooves to punch Thundershield. Thundershield simply dodged and swung his head with full force, smashing the colt’s nose with his horn. Thankfully it was dull, making it a small blunt weapon rather than a dangerous pick. That didn't calm Ms.Delphinetly, though, who pushed Thundershield off the colt and made sure the colt was okay. She sent everyone, but the colt, who was sent to the hospital for injuries and a bruised up Thundershield, back into the school. She yanked Thundershield by the ear and yelled, “Thundershield! Why would do that? You know that isn’t right!” Thundershield lowered his head, ear pulled, and said, “Because he insulted you, and no one insults the best aunt in the whole wide world!” She looked in amazement. She knew the Thundershield was protective but she never knew how far his protection reached. She just shook her head, smiled and gave him a big hug. “I love you aunt Delphinetly, and I don’t want anyone to hurt you in anyway.” She snapped out of her flashback and looked at her necklace. She opened it and found Thundershield, Dusty, Aqueda, and her all in a family photo. “I love you, too.” Thundershield was trying to run without spraining his leg again. “Hey, Firesword, wait up!” His friend looked back. He was red with black hair without a cutie mark, just like Thundershield. His eyes were as orange as a well lit candle. He saw that his friend was limping. “Hang on Thundershield, I’m coming!” Thundershield tried to run as fast as he could but his friend already reached him. “Your leg hasn’t healed yet?” asked Firesword. “No, it’s completely healed Firesword, I can now walk again now that you came over,” said Thundershield sarcastically. “Ok, Well I see you later, I gotta run somewhere.” “Hey, I didn’t mean it like that, you know I like to joke around from time to time,” Thundershield said. “Really? Tell me more about how you were just kidding!” Firesword said with a tiny grin. Thundershield just smirked. “Thanks for waiting for me.” “Why didn’t you tell me to walk you to go to school?” The question became a quick agitator when uttered more than once. “Because I don’t want you to worry about me.” “It wouldn’t be a problem at all. Plus, we’d be excused from being tardy, and I know I would like to sleep a little longer.” Thundershield just looked at him. “If you got your way, you would sleep a whole day!” “And that’s a problem because?” “Whatever man, I just want my leg to heal so you would stop making me your scapegoat.” Firesword just looked at him in confusion. “You know, someone to blame when things go wrong,” said Thundershield. “Like I would know. Unlike you, I’m not an encyclopedionary.” Thundershield rolled his eyes. He wasn’t that smart and kept reminding Firesword that. “Anyways, my dad is coming home from the Royal Guard for his birthday! My mom, my aunt and I want to surprise him with the town! You want to help prepare?” “Sure! Let’s go!” When they went to Thundershield’s house, Aquedea was waiting for him anxiously. “Hijo! Why didn’t you wait for me?!” “I’m sorry mama, I didn’t mean to worry you. ‘I thought you needed the extra sleep.” Aquedea tried to fix his hair, “Promise you won’t go out by yourself ever again, querido?” “Moooom, stop embarrassing me.” “Prometeme que, por favor!” (Promise me please!) “Si, mama, no voy a hacerlo de nuevo.” (Yes, mom, I promise I won’t do it ever again.) “Good.” She kissed Thundershield on the head. She saw Firesword holding a straight face. “Hola, Firesword!” “Hola, Miss Aquedea,” said Firesword. He looked at his friend– smirking-- and then walked inside with Thundershield. Thundershield lowered his head with blood red cheeks. The house was a typical Western home that was painted green with red window frames. Inside displayed the mix of the Spanish and Pony culture. The inside was decorated with a white ceiling and pillars upholding the ceiling. The wooden pillars protruded through the walls and held the ceiling atop. Inside, many of the furniture displayed a Latin feel to it. But today there was an extra touch of decorations, for Dusty Oak was coming back from his duty of the Royal Guard. He went to join the Royal Guard after he was offered by one of the Captains. “Mom, why did dad join the Shining Guard?” asked Thundershield. “Hijo, he joined because he wanted to help defend Equestria from its dangers,” Aqueda said while putting decorations were being put up. “You know that.” Thundershield did know that, but there wasn’t a single day that he missed his father. He wanted to go out there and travel with him. More importantly, he wanted to stand at his father’s side. He loved his home, his friends, his family, and Hooverston. He looked up at the stars and saw that one was shining brighter than the others. It was the star that reminded him of his father. … “Hey dad, why is the star brighter than the others?” asked young Thundershield. “Well, why shouldn’t it?” asked his father. “Because it‘s not giving the others the chance to be seen.” “But you can see the other stars, can’t you?” “I guess so. But why does it do that?” “Well maybe the other stars are lost and confused. They might be even scared in the dark.” “Well…I guess.” “The shining star was born with an enormous glow and it wants to use its gift to help other stars by protecting them from the darkness.” Thundershield never saw it that way, he always thought that the star was too bright and tried to impede the other star’s abilities. “So, it’s helping the other stars?” Dusty playfully tackled Thundershield to the ground and tickled him. “I’m absolutely positive, kid. It wants to help others, just like you. So what it does is, just like the bright stars, is it shines brighter than the others so it can give even more light from the darkness.” Thundershield gazed at the star a bit more. “That star is awesome.” Dusty smiled and began to speak again, “I’m sure when the star was little, it thought the same thing you’re thinking right now.” Dusty changed his tone of voice suddenly and said, “Thunder, you and that bright star have something in common.” “What’s that dad?” “Both of you shine so brightly, that everything notices. Maybe you or him don’t notice the shine yourselves posses, but you both will. And when the time comes, you will both use that shine to help everyone.” … Thundershield just looked at the sky from the window. Seven years later and the star is one of the brighter ones in the sky. Its shine has not been extinguished just yet. “When dad? When will the time come?” Thundershield asked looking at the sky.
Chapter 3It was to be a surprise party. When Aqueda wrote back to Dusty’s letters, she never mentioned the party. Ms. Delphinetly was there too to help with the preparations with the rest of the town. The kids were running around and playing games with each other. The atmosphere swelled with excitement and anxiousness as the crowd awaited their beloved sheriff. Everyone dressed for the occasion, wearing the nicest clothes they had had. They wanted to make the best welcome home party any pony had experienced. Talks of Dusty’s heroism were spreading throughout the house as Thundershield entered through the front porch. “Hey, Thunder!” said Firesword while running towards his friend, “I was looking for you! Where you been?” “I was outside.” “You okay?” “I just… I’m happy my dad is coming back and all, but I want to be with him now. I feel confused about something.” “Confused, eh? That’s a first. What’s on your mind?” “Well, I guess it may not be confusion. It’s more worriment.” “Berry Mint? You mean the girl in our class? You’re crushing on her?!” “No worriment like the act of… look, until my dad comes back, I will be consistently worried about him.” “Dude, he’s Dusty Oaks, only the greatest sheriff in all of Equestria! I mean, he stopped those bandits from attacking the town, saved the town during a sandstorm, saved a little girl from a rattlesnake bite, heroically saved a bandwagon from more bandits, saved the town from starvation by traveling to Ponyville to receive supplies-.” “You’re right. My dad’s fine. Thanks, Firesword!” Firesword nodded and both colts went to help with the decorations. As Thundershield walked with Firesword, they met the school bully, Hefty. “Well, well, look who it is, Fart brains and the Flaming toothpick!” His groupies laughed. Hefty was a big pony, who had a skull bone cutie mark. His coat was a dark color with a dark mane. His eyes were crimson, just like blood. “Hey there Huff’n puff, what’s shakin?” asked Firesword “Shut up, toothpick! I’m here because my dad dragged me here. I wouldn’t want to be here anyways. Besides, you will never be as good as your dad ever was.” “Like you’ll be any better than my dad?” asked Thundershield rhetorically. “Oh yea, at least twenty times better when I grow up.” “Really? Why not now? Lemme see that potential you got there.” “With pleasure, Fart brains!” Just as Hefty was going to attack Thundershield, Firesword stopped both of them. “Wait, how about an eating contest? Y’know, so the parents don’t make a fuss about it?” said Firesword. “Looks like the Flaming Toothpick has more smarts than you, Fart brains. I challenge you, dunderface, to an eating contest.” “As much as you should lose some weight, I’m in you giant blackberry.” Hefty frowned, but just turned around. “See you later, Fart brains.” Thundershield looked at Firesword with relief and gratitude. He didn’t want to wreck the party. The gratitude became overshadowed by a sudden realization. “Firesword, how can I beat Hefty in an eating contest? Look at him, he could eat twenty ponies and still ask for dessert!” exclaimed Thundershield “I don’t know. I just thought it would be a good idea,” said Firesword. “Do you think he’ll beat me?” “No,” said Firesword, “He’s going to grind you to dust.” “I hate you so much right now.” “And then munch on you like a bag of sugar.” “All. Of. My. Hate.” Later that night, the eating contest was underway between the arlicorn and the pony. “Ready to lose, Fart brains?” asked Hefty “Dude, my IQ is at least 100 points above yours. I am not stupid,” said Thunderbolt “What’s an IQ?” “Make that 200.” “Whatever, your ‘IQ’ is not going to help you in this competition!” Firesword came up and exclaimed, “Foals and colts, tonight we have our eating competition between Thundershield and Hefty. Usually, each contestant must not only be the first to eat all of the food, but they must eat it without any vomit! Today, however, is a surprise party. So, given that Dusty will be-” “YEAAAA! DUSTY OAK!” said a random colt. Firesword turned towards the colt in a scowl. And by scowl, I mean death glare. “sorry,” said the young colt. “-here in any minute, they must be able to eat as much food as they in 5 minutes without vomiting! When I say go, start eating.” Thundershield looked down at all twenty dishes. They were filled with a giant burrito, pies, and a variety of other foods that were fit for 10 ponies. “I regret everything,” thought Thundershield. “Players are you ready?!” said Firesword. Hefty let out a mighty yell while Thundershield nodded his head in a stricken state. How could he finish all this food? There was no way, but he couldn’t lose to Hefty! How was he going to- “GO!” and he was stuffing his face before he could think about it. Hefty was a pig, constantly eating his plates with nothing but an open mouth. Food would always sputter from his mouth making the crowd move two yards back. He tried to sneak in a break. “Hey, no breaks!” said Firesword making the rest of the crowd boo at Hefty. Hefty glanced over to find Thundershield eating his food as well. Hefty tried to take a bite, but he couldn’t eat anymore! Just as he was about panic, Thundershield finished his food. “Holy…cow…I’m… done…” Thundershield exclaimed in between huffs. The crowd young mares and colts cheered for Thundershield. What a short cheer it was. An adult stallion yelled, “WHO TOOK THE FOOD?!” The young crowd vanished in all directions they could find away from the rage. Thundershield hid with Firesword, with a lot of huffing and puffing. Then they just looked at each other and laughed. Firesword abruptly stopped laughing and became confused. “How?” asked Firesword. “Huh?” replied Thundershield “How did you beat him? The colt can eat everything and beyond like it was a snack.” “…I don’t know. Miracles?” “Or you’re just secretly a fatass? Either way, Hefty doesn’t doesn't discriminate the size when he's gonna kick it.” “Yea, bet he’s looking for me and try to get payback,” said Thundershield. “There you are, hijo,” said Aqueda. “Vamos, we need to hide for your father.” She then nudged Thundershield and Firesword behind the couch. Thundershield and Firesword dashed towards the couch crouched behind it. The lights were off and the room seemed completely empty. The sound of the key entering the lock interrupted the complete, yet small silence. “That’s dad!” thought Thundershield, “I can’t wait to give him the greatest hug he will ever get!” The lock began to rotate. “This is it!” The knob rotated. “Three.” The door slightly opened. “Two.” The door opened a little bit more. “One.” The door opened. “Surprise!” shouted all of the ponies. And a surprise indeed, for Dusty never showed up to his own party.
